WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER 10.6/20 – 10/10/20 Ecclesiastes 4:7-12
TUESDAY 10/6/20 We Are Stronger Together! Ecclesiastes 4:1-12
After reading Ecclesiastes 4:7-12 today, write down times in your past things you invested your time in that did not really matter – that did not last – that took away from things that really mattered. (that you might not consider “meaningless”.)
Now write down things you have invested your life in that really had value – that made a difference in your life – your relationship with the Lord and others – possibly impacting other lives.
What would you invest more of your time in the rest of your life?
What would you leave out or change?
Spend time today praying for the Holy Spirit to guide you in your decisions, choices – making the most of your life!
WEDNESDAY 10/7/20 We Are Stronger Together Ecclesiastes 4:7-12
In verses nine through twelve, Solomon shares “five” relationship goals!
- Community Verse nine begins with “Two people are better than one”!
What does Community mean to you?
How important is Community to you and the Church?
Read:
Acts 4:31-32. How important is praying together?
2 Timothy 4:1-5. How important is studying together?
Hebrews 10:23-25. How important is worshiping together?
2. Productivity
Verse nine also says “because they have a good reward for their toil.” (work)
What are some of the benefits of working with someone (or others)?
Working Together! Read Ephesians 4:16.
Working Together! The Result! Read John 17:21.
How important is it that the church works together in unity and under the leadership of the Holy Spirit?
What are the possible results of a church working together in unity and purpose under the leadership of the Holy Spirit?
Spend time today praying for an uncommon unity – working together – and for the spirit of the Lord to overwhelm us personally and as a church.
THURSDAY 10/8/20 We Are Stronger Together Ecclesiastes 4:7-12
3. Stability
In verse ten Solomon speaks of Stability! Having someone (or a group) to help, support, encourage, and pray for you makes a huge difference in all areas of your life, especially your spiritual walk.
Write down at least two times in your life when someone (or a group) were there for you – lifting you up physically or spiritually!
The support of others also provides accountability and challenges us when we sometimes need to be pushed or redirected.
Identify someone you can help support, encourage and pray for.
4. Intimacy
In verse eleven Solomon speaks of Intimacy (Warmth)! How does your relationship with your mate or a close friend help you get through a rough or challenging time?
Identify at least two situations that this has been a huge help in your journey in life.
Identify how you can come alongside your mate or close friend helping or sharing the load they are experiencing?
FRIDAY 10/9/20 We Are Stronger Together
In verse twelve Solomon speaks of Security!
5. Security
We are stronger together!!!
In what ways are we as a body of believers stronger together?
1 Peter 5:8 English Standard Version (ESV)
8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
In what ways can being together as believers help in spiritual warfare – attacks?
“Three are even better for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken!” Ecclesiastes 4:12b NLT
What is the one cord/braid that is key? That holds our spiritual lives together?
We are stronger together in Jesus Christ!
Spend time today praying that as a church we will have an uncommon bond of unity and love! That Jesus Christ will be the center of our lives and our church!
SATURDAY 10/10/20
Spend time today thanking the Lord for all He has provided and blessed you and First Baptist Church with.
Pray for:
The message tomorrow at 11:00 a.m.
Spiritual awakening/revival in our lives, our church and our nation
The health of our President and his wife
The health of our church family
The lost!
Bro. Jack
RIVERS OF REVIVAL Ezekiel 47:1-12 9/29/20 – 10/3/20
TUESDAY 9/29/20
- Define Revival in your own words.
- Where does revival begin?
- Describe an individual who is desperately praying for revival. (their heart and desires)
- How has the pandemic affected the spiritual lives of believers?
- How has the pandemic affected your spiritual walk with the Lord?
- What are the dangers of being disconnected from the Church for over six months?
- Many in the church desire to go back to some type of “normal”. What do you think the Lord desires for us? Going back to normal? Or could there be something much more?
- Read John 7:37-39. In these verses, Jesus is referring to “Rivers of Living Water will flow from his heart.” – Meaning the Holy Spirit.
- Describe a life controlled/filled with the Holy Spirit.
- How should we return from these past six months?
Spend time praying for the presence of the Lord (the Holy Spirit) to overwhelm your life. That “rivers of living water will flow from His (your) heart”!
WEDNESDAY 9/30/20 Rivers of Revival Ezekiel 47:1-12
This passage is a millennial vision given to Ezekiel. He is envisioning a time when the Lord will bring about absolute healing in the Nation of Israel. He sees a time when the river of God’s grace and blessing will flow from His throne and will refresh the promised land. While this prophecy is for the Nation of Israel and will be fulfilled one day, there is application for us today!
- The water begins in the temple – coming under the threshold – flowing by the altar. The altar is a place of sacrifice — what is the ultimate sacrifice given for us?
- In Ezekiel’s vision the man measured the river every 1000 cubits (1750 feet). At each stop the depth and power of the river increased. (verses 3-6)
- First measurement – ANKLE DEEP representing salvation – the beginning of your life with Jesus Christ. Describe your salvation experience.
- Second measurement – KNEE DEEP representing prayer – learning to depend on the Lord. (Read John 3:30) Describe your prayer life.
- Third measurement – WAIST DEEP representing spiritual growth – maturing – desiring to serve the Lord. Describe your spiritual growth. Do you desire to serve the Lord and others more than yourself?
- Fourth measurement – DEEP ENOUGH TO SWIM IN – a river that could not be passed through. Describe who is in control of your life. Whose will are you pursuing? Have you surrendered your life completely to the Lord?
- How important is a spirit of humility and repentance in each one of these steps?
Spend time today praying:
- You will have a desire to grow spiritually – to go deeper.
- You will live a life of prayer – depending on the Lord.
- You will serve the Lord with all of your heart and serve others.
- You will surrender all of your heart – allowing the Holy Spirit to control your life – going beyond your ability.
THURSDAY 10/1/20 Rivers of Revival Ezekiel 47:1-12
What is the result of True Revival? (see verses 6-12)
Have you felt Depressed in the last six months?
Have you felt Dry or Empty spiritually in the last six months?
Is our culture, our country, headed for Death? (Romans 6:23a)
What is the answer to depression? Being dry or empty spiritually? Being spiritually dead?
When true revival comes, people are drawn to the Lord! Evangelism is a by-product of Revival!
Spend time praying for the Holy Spirit to bring peace, joy, purpose, and confidence in knowing when we completely surrender to the Lord. If we allow the Holy Spirit to lead, we will experience a River of Life.
FRIDAY 10/2/20 Ezekiel 47:1-12″
We cannot stop the flow of the river except at its source. By stopping the source, we can stop the flow.
The river from the Throne of God has feeder streams. The power of the spirit cannot be stopped; however, we can quench the spirit in our personal lives and the church.
The one thing that can stop revival in your life is ___________________!
- Are you in the river?
- How deep are you willing to go?
- What’s keeping you from moving into deeper water?
- Is the river (Holy Spirit) in absolute control of your life?
- What do you need to do today?
SATURDAY 10/3/20 Ezekiel 47:1-12
Pray for the Worship Service tomorrow – “Back to Church Sunday” – as we move back to our sanctuary for worship and return to Sunday School at 9:45 a.m.
Read Ecclesiastes 4:7-12 “We Are Stronger Together”!
BE DILIGENT: 2 Peter 3:10-18 9/22/20-9/26/20
TUESDAY 9/22/20 2 Peter 3:10-18
What does the word “diligent” mean?
Why is it vital believers are “diligent” in all aspects of their faith?
Read 2 Peter 3:10 and Matthew 24:42-44.
What is the meaning of “the day of the Lord”?
How does the scripture describe Christ’s return?
Describe a believer who is alert, awake, and preparing for the return of Christ.
Describe a believer who is complacent and not alert nor anticipating the return of Christ.
Spend time today praying for a sense of “urgency” in your life and the Church in being prepared for “the Day of the Lord”.
WEDNESDAY 9/23/20 2 Peter 3:10-18
Peter writes in this passage about Three Reasons to Be Diligent!
- Be diligent to godly living! verses 11-14
What are most people (even believers) pursuing in their lives? Their priorities?
List the pursuits that the world treasures!
Question: Do you spend more time piling up possessions or striving to develop Christ-like behavior?
What keeps you personally from pursuing to develop and grow spiritually? Identify any distractions.
What is the motivation for us to look forward to the return of Christ? (2 Peter 3:13)
Peter writes in verse 14 to “…be diligent to be found by Him without spot or blemish, and at peace.”
Describe the meaning of this verse and what “without spot or blemish, and at peace” looks like in your life.
How does an expectant attitude make a difference when we meet Jesus Christ?
Spend time today praying for an attitude of diligence – pursuing a life without spot or blemish and at peace.
Pray through 1 Peter 1:5-7 and Galatians 5:22-23.
THURSDAY 9/24/20 “Be Diligent” 2 Peter 3:10-18
2. “Be Diligent” to win the lost! (verses 15-16)
Is there someone in your life who is lost? (Identify them)
What is the meaning of 2 Peter 3:9,15?
What does this show us about the patience and love the Lord has for us?
Peter’s letters encourages and challenges Christians to grow spiritually and to persevere.
Paul’s letters emphasizes salvation and grace. (Romans and Ephesians)
Read Romans 8:1-5 – The law prepared the way for GRACE!
False teachers often twist, distort, and take out of context the writings of Paul – given to him by the Lord. Peter in verse 15 and 16 confirms Paul’s writings as the inspired Word of God.
Ephesians 2:8-10 English Standard Version (ESV)
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
We become Christians through God’s unmerited favor, not as a result of any effort, ability, or act of service on our part.
The by-product of our salvation is to grow spiritually – serving the Lord and reaching the lost!
Spend time praying for the salvation of the lost who are in your life. (Pray by name.)
FRIDAY 9/25/20 “Be Diligent” 2 Peter 3:10-18
3. Be diligent to grow spiritually! verses 17-18
1 Corinthians 10:12 (ESV)
12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.
Not losing your salvation, but stumbling – being distracted and misled.
How important is “stability” in your spiritual journey – your spiritual growth?
What is the danger of evangelism without discipleship?
We must continuously grow spiritually! Adding supplements daily – 2 Peter 1:5-7 – pursuing Christ-like character. Galatians 5:22-23
- We were saved by Grace! (Ephesians 2:8-10)
- We are strengthened by Grace! (2 Timothy 2:1-2)
- Grace enables us to endure suffering! (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)
- Grace helps us give when giving is difficult! (2 Corinthians 8:1)
Grace helps us worship when worship is difficult! (Colossians 3:16-17)
Growing in GRACE means experiencing trials and even suffering – we don’t experience the Grace of God until we are at the end of our own resources! (John 1:16)
We must also grow in knowledge of the scripture – there must be a balance of knowledge and grace!
Knowledge without grace is a terrible weapon!
Grace without knowledge can be very shallow!
But when we combine Knowledge and Grace, we have a powerful tool for building our lives and for the Church!
It is one thing to know the Bible and another to know the Son of God!
Growing spiritually requires “Diligence’!
Grow in Knowledge and Grace! A balance producing stability in your spiritual journey!
Pray for the desire to grow in Grace and Knowledge – to have stability – not tempted to stumble and drift.
SATURDAY 9/26/20 “Be Diligent” 2 Peter 3:10-18
The result of spiritual growth is – Glory to God! 2 Peter 3:18
WE ARE TO BE DILIGENT!
- Living godly lives
- Winning/reaching the lost
- Growing spiritually
Make the most of every opportunity!
Pray for:
- The worship service tomorrow at 11:00 a.m.
- Back to Church Sunday, October 4th, “Stronger Together”!
- Pray for spiritual awakening as an individual, as a church, and as a nation!
ANTICIPATING THE RETURN: 2 Peter 3:1-10 9/15/20 – 9/19/20
TUESDAY 9/15/20 2 Peter 3:1-10
Peter is encouraging the Church during a serious time of persecution. He is motivating them to stay focused and to be ready!
What motivates you to get things done?
What motivates you in your spiritual life – your walk with Jesus?
In verse one Peter says he is stirring them up (waking them up)! He is challenging them to have a “sincere mind by way of reminder.”
What does a “sincere mind” mean to you personally?
What do you sometimes have to be reminded of in your spiritual life?
What motivated Peter (and Paul) spiritually? Read 2 Timothy 4:7-8
Pray today for scripture and the Holy Spirit to lead your life to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
WEDNESDAY 9/16/20 2 Peter 3:1-10
Peter writes in verse two to “remember the predictions” – what is the main thing Peter is encouraging the Church and you today to remember?
What does the second coming of Christ mean to you personally?
In verse three Peter says “knowing this first of all,” – meaning priority – warns that false teachers will be doing three things. (verses 3 & 4)
- Scoffing – Ridicule – Give examples of situations you have experienced or seen of Christians being ridiculed and mocked.
- “Following their own sinful desires” – Describe the morals/desires non-believers and false teachers pursue.
- “Where is the promise of His coming?” – “…all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.” (verse 4) 1. Teaching Christ will not return. 2. Rewriting history (that the flood, Sodom and Gomorrah, parting of the Red Sea, the walls of Jericho are all fables. 3. They don’t believe in creation.
What do they Believe?
Why is Judgement a problem for them?
By denying judgement from God, they justify what?
What will the Day of Judgement bring to the ungodly? (verse 7)
Pray for strength, wisdom, and discernment to live as a light for the kingdom in our culture today.
THURSDAY 9/17/20 2 Peter 3:1-10
Verses eight and nine speak of God’s timing. How would you describe God’s timing compared to ours?
Why the delay in Christ’s return? There are two reasons. (verses 8 & 9)
1. Read Psalm 90:4
2. Read 2 Peter 3:9, 15
Share a time in your life when God’s timing was different from yours? Why? Did it change things?
Read verse nine – explain why the Lord is slow to fulfill His promise.
Pray for a sense of “urgency” – “a burden” – to share the gospel with the lost and to make the most of our time for the kingdom.
FRIDAY 9/18/20 2 Peter 3:1-10
Explain the meaning of verse ten.
Read and explain Matthew 24:42-44.
Read and explain 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.
What is our responsibility? What should we be doing?
How will Christ return?
How can you make the most of your time?
After reading the scripture today, do you need to change your priorities?
Pray for your lost family members, friends, co-workers, classmates, and those you encounter this week. Pray for their salvation! Pray for an opportunity to share the gospel – and seize that opportunity!
SATURDAY 9/19/20
Pray for the worship at 11:00 a.m. tomorrow.
Read 2 Peter 3:11-18.
Pray for Bro. Jack, Wes, and the Worship Team as they lead tomorrow.
Read 2 Chronicles 7:14. Pray for spiritual awakening personally, as a church, and for our nation.
DEVOTIONS: “False Freedom” 2 Peter 2:17-22 9/8/20 – 9/12/20
TUESDAY 9/8/20 2 Peter 2:17-22
How would you describe the world’s idea of freedom?
What are some of the false freedoms promoted and taught by false teachers?
In verse 17 false teachers are compared to:
- “Waterless springs” (springs without water, dried up springs) offering a life that is a mirage – a life that is like an empty well or a dried up spring.
- “Mists driven by a storm” (clouds without rain)
The picture of a false teacher making a lot of noise (promises), but producing nothing! All bang! No substance!
Read John 4:10-14. The woman at the well – Living Water – Eternal Life offered by Jesus Christ!
In the second part of verse 17 Peter says what has been reserved for the people?
Spend time today praying our thirst and desires will be quenched by Jesus Christ alone.
WEDNESDAY 9/9/20 2 Peter 2:17-22
Yesterday we read in verse 17 how false teachers lead people to wells without water and clouds without rain – delivering bitter disappointment.
Verse 18 shows the target is new believers – people without a foundation.
How do they attract people?
- “speaking loud boasts of folly” verse 18 (empty words)
- “They entice by sensual passions of the flesh” (lustful desires)
False teachers entice – bait – lure – entrap with empty, boastful words, appealing to the old nature.
Read 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 Compare Paul’s heart and teaching to false teachers.
How important is discipleship in a new believer’s life?
How important is on-going discipleship in a believer’s life in their spiritual journey?
Describe discipleship. What does it look like?
Spend time praying for a desire for more discipleship in your life and the opportunity to pour into the lives of others.
THURSDAY 9/10/20 2 Peter 2:17-22
Peter writes in verse 19 that false teachers promise Freedom!
List freedoms that false teachers offer!
How does sin promise freedom but actually brings bondage?
What is true freedom from God’s point of view?
Read John 8:32.
FRIDAY 9/11/20 2 Peter 2:17-22
In verses 20-22 Peter is speaking of people who have learned about Christ and how to be saved but then reject the truth and return to their sin.
Peter says they are worse off than before!
Read Matthew 12:43-45.
A picture of someone cleaning up their life on the outside but without filling their life with a relationship with Jesus Christ.
An encounter without transformation!
In verse 22 the dog and pig returned to their old nature – there was no change in their nature/instincts.
Spend time today praying for continual growth in your relationship with Jesus Christ. Pray that your life will be light in a dark world – your nature becoming more and more Christ-like!
SATURDAY 9/12/20 2 Peter 17:22
Spend time today praying for the worship service tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. in the Family Life Center.
Pray for Back to Church Sunday – September 20th.
“Stronger Together”
Begin to invite those who have not been in church the past several months and especially those without a church home!
Pray for our church – our nation! For spiritual Awakening/Revival! 2 Chronicles 7:14
MARKED MEN 2 Peter 2:10-16 9/1/20 – 9/5/20
TUESDAY 9/1/20 2 Peter 2:10-16
“For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off in to myths.” 2 Timothy 4:3-4 ESV
Explain the meaning of this verse. What are many people looking for? Why?
Are you aware of people who have rejected the truth of the Bible?
Read Acts 2:42, Matthew 7:28-29, John 7:16-17
How important is sound biblical teaching?
What is doctrine? How important is doctrine to you? (biblical beliefs/teaching)
When churches are soft on doctrine, it creates an environment where false teaching can easily come in!
Spend time praying today for a desire for God’s Word – to spend time in it, and for understanding and application. Pray that our individual lives and our church will be built only on the foundation of the Word!
WEDNESDAY 9/2/20 2 Peter 2:10-16
In verse ten Peter states two characteristics of false teachers:
“those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion”
“and despise authority”
Read Jude 18
What does this verse say the purpose in life is of false teachers?
The combination of lust and despising authority create Pride and Arrogance!
Read verses 10 through 12
The scripture says that even angels did not dare to charge evil supernatural beings with blasphemy, but the false teachers were so arrogant they did not hesitate to do so! They were taking Satan’s power lightly and claiming to have the ability to judge evil. (Read Jude 8-9)
In Jude 8 and 9 who does the archangel Michael leave judgement to?
Verse 12 describes the false teachers as irrational (unthinking) – creatures of instinct. (Read 2 Peter 2:22)
How would you describe the character of a false teacher based on 2 Peter 2:10-12 and verse 22?
Spend time today praying for wisdom and discernment in your spiritual life.
THURSDAY 9/3/20 2 Peter 2:10-16
As you read verse 13, “their wrongdoing” is at the cost of others!
Give examples of how they take advantage of people!
Verse 13 also says they are deceptive! What are some of the ways false teachers entice and trap people?
In verse 14 Peter says they:
Satisfy their own lusts
Entice and trap converts
Are trained in greed!
Identify the targets (individuals) they can more easily entice and trap.
Describe the importance of discipleship and biblical teaching in individual lives and in the church.
Spend time today praying for a burning desire for discipleship – for a heart like clay that can be shaped and used for the Glory of God! Pray that we will remain in the Lord’s Hands!
FRIDAY 9/4/20 2 Peter 2:10-17
In verses 15 and 16 Peter refers to Balaam in the Old Testament who was a false teacher/prophet – for the love of money. Balaam used religion for personal advancement, a sin that God does not take lightly.
The Lord used a donkey to restrain Balaam – “a speechless donkey spoke with a human voice and restrained the prophet’s madness.” (Numbers 2:2)
The Lord saves Israel at this time; however, Israel later compromises their beliefs and experience discipline from the Lord.
How is our nation- various churches – across America compromising today?
How does the Lord view compromise in the believer’s life? Read Matthew 6:24
Read Matthew 7:13-14. There is only one way to Eternal Life (John 14:6) and only a few decide to walk that road.
Today pray through Matthew 7:24-27. Pray that your life and your family will be built on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
SATURDAY 9/5/20 2 Peter 2:17-22
Spend time today praying for:
The message tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. on 2 Peter 2:17-22.
Spiritual Awakening! In our lives, our church, and our country!
BEWARE OF COUNTERFEITS! 2 Peter 2:1-9 August 25-29
TUESDAY 8/25/20 2 Peter 2:1-9
How would you feel if you invested all of your savings in a fraudulent company? You lost all you had saved for the future?
How would you feel if your friend, husband or wife, or your children were led astray by a false teacher? Following a counterfeit belief?
What are some of the false teachings in our culture today?
How are these teachings affecting the Church today?
Read 2 Peter 2:1-3 – Four Tactics of False Prophets
- What do false prophets bring in? ____________________ verse 1
- What do false prophets deny? ____________________ verse 1
- What do false prophets follow/pursue? ____________________ verse 2
- False prophets are consumed with ____________________! verse 3
Spend time today praying for the Word and the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom and discernment in today’s culture and teaching — revealing Truth and discerning false words.
WEDNESDAY 8/26/20 2 Peter 2:1-9
False teachers exploit you with false words (from the Greek word “plastos” – from which we get the English word “plastic“) that can be twisted to mean anything they want! verse 3
False teachers follow the same pattern as Satan when he deceived Eve – Genesis 3:1-6.
- First – He questioned God’s Word. Genesis 3:1
- Second – He denied God’s Word. Genesis 3:4
- Third – He substituted his own lie. Genesis 3:4
Identify a false teaching you have heard or experienced that follows these three steps.
Why are people accepting these teachings?
THURSDAY 8/27/20 2 Peter 2:1-9
Read 2 Timothy 4:3-4
How important is doctrine? Sound teaching?
Why do some churches (people) desire to hear things that will not challenge or convict?
Describe teachings that are considered comfortable – non-challenging – requiring very little commitment.
What is the end result of false teaching? 2 Peter 2:3b, 4-6
Peter gives three examples of judgement.
- verse 4 ____________________
- verse 5 ____________________
- verse 6 ____________________
Describe the world before the flood!
Describe the morals of Sodom and Gomorrah!
Contrast these two examples to today’s culture and morals.
Spend time praying that individually and as a church we will stand firm on the Word of God.
*That the value of doctrine and sound teaching will be taught in the home and the church.
FRIDAY 8/28/20 2 Peter 2:1-9
Jesus Christ – “A Living Hope” 1 Peter 1:3-4, John 14:1-6
True believers delivered! 2 Peter 2:5-9a
Why were Noah and Lot delivered from judgement?
Define compromise!
Why do we see believers compromising their faith?
What are some of the influences/temptations that cause people to compromise?
Why do some churches compromise their teaching?
Spend time today praying that the Lord will give you the desire to spend time in the Word and prayer pursuing Truth/Jesus Christ!
Pray that any temptation to compromise will be defeated by the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life and the Church!
SATURDAY 8/29/20 2 Peter 2:1-9
Verse nine says “the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials,”
There is hope in Jesus Christ! 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10
Spend time today thanking the Lord for the salvation He has given us through Jesus Christ!
Pray for Sound Doctrine and Teaching!
Pray for the message tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. 2 Peter 2:10-16 “Marked Men”
WAKE UP AND REMEMBER 2 Peter 1:12-21
TUESDAY 8/18/20
In verses 12 through 15 Peter makes the following statements:
“I intend to always remind”
“To stir up (arouse) by way of reminder”
“I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.”
Peter is speaking of the qualities a Christian is to pursue in verses 5 through 7.
Faith – Goodness – Knowledge – Self-control – Steadfastness – Godliness – Kindness – Love
Give at least three possible reasons Peter stressed the importance of remembering and living out these qualities. (Read 2 Peter 1:1-21)
1. ______________________
2. ______________________
3. ______________________
There are at least eight or more reasons/benefits.)
Spend time in prayer today for the desire to pursue these qualities – pursuing a more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.
WEDNESDAY 8/19/20 2 Peter 1:12-21
Think of how much time you spend reading the Bible each week. There are 168 hours in a week, so what percentage of your time do you spend in God’s Word?
If we truly value God’s Word, why don’t we spend more time in it? Explain.
What do you think happens to Christians when they stop spending time reading the Word? To a church? To yourself?
What does the image of the lamp in Psalm 119:105 mean?
How have you experienced (or not experienced) God’s Word serving in this way in your life?
Why do we often look for an emotional experience in our relationship with the Lord?
At church? At an event? Or even in our private life?
Explain/describe a true, life-changing encounter with the Lord.
Describe the difference between an emotional experience and a true, on-going encounter with the Lord.
Spend time today praying for a desire to be in the Word – Reading – Studying – Meditating – Praying!
THURSDAY 8/20/20 2 Peter 1:12-21
What is a false teacher? How can you recognize one?
Why do people in the church as well as non-Christians “fall for” false teaching?
Identify a false teaching you have encountered or heard promoted in the past or present.
How did you know it was false teaching?
In verses 16 through 18 Peter states “we” (Peter, James, and John) were not only eye witnesses of His majesty, but also they heard the very voice of God – “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased.”
Read Luke 9:28-36 – The Transfiguration
What impact do you think the experience of the transfiguration had on Peter? What impact does it have on you?
FRIDAY 8/21/20 2 Peter 1:12-21
Back to the Basics!
How important are the basics in sports? Continuing on-going practice of the basics in any sport? What if you spend very little time on training in the basics – skipping spring training or off-season? What if you go straight into the season without any preparation? Who wins?
Read 2 Peter 1:5-7 again!
Pursuing these qualities are necessary for a believer’s foundation – spiritual growth.
Have you ever been guilty of knowing something but failing to act on it?
Have you ever struggled with or failed to apply biblical characteristics or truth in making decisions?
Pursuing the basics in spiritual growth leads us to a greater understanding and a more intimate relationship with our Savior.
How does the Bible help us test cults and other religions?
Spend time praying today for a pursuit of the basics – building a foundation on Jesus Christ!
SATURDAY 8/22/20 2 Peter 1:12-21
What part does the Holy Spirit play in Bible study?
What are some ways we can get more involved with God’s Word?
Peter said “…I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.”
How important is it for you to pursue the basics and to build your foundation on Jesus Christ?
Please spend time praying for the message tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. – 2 Peter 2:1-9 – “Beware of Counterfeits”.
KNOWING AND GROWING 2 Peter 1:1-11, August 11 – 15
TUESDAY 8/11/20 2 Peter 1:1-11
1. Do you ever feel inadequate or ineffective as a follower of Christ?
2. If you have ever had these thoughts, what might be the cause of those feelings?
3. How does Peter describe those to whom he is writing (2 Peter 2:1)? If this applies to you, how does the truth affect you?
4. Describe God’s grace.
5. Describe God’s peace.
6. In verse 3, what kind of knowledge is Peter talking about? Give some examples.
7. Verse 3 also states “Grace and peace are to be multiplied to you”. What does this mean to your spiritual journey?
WEDNESDAY 8/12/20 2 Peter 2:1-11
1. Verses 4 and 5 speak of God’s promises. What is the difference between the world’s promises and the promises of God?
2. Peter writes in verse 5 that we are to make every effort to respond to God’s promises.
How serious are you in response to this statement? Does your effort in pursuing God (spiritual growth) surpass worldly pursuits in your life?
3. We often use supplements or vitamins to enhance our physical health. How much time do you put into supplementing your spiritual growth with the virtues/characteristics in verse 5 through 7?
4. Spend time today praying through verses 5 through 7. Ask the Lord to give you the desire to pursue these virtues; also to reveal to you a characteristic you need to grow in more at this point in your life.
THURSDAY 8/13/20 2 Peter 1:1-11
1. The Lord provides the resources (supplements) for spiritual growth.
2. What is our responsibility?
3. What is faith? Give some everyday examples of it.
4. What is goodness? Give some everyday examples of it.
5. What is knowledge? Give some everyday examples of it.
6. What is self-control? Give some everyday examples of it.
7. What is steadfastness? Give some everyday examples of it.
8. What is godliness? Give some everyday examples of it.
9. What is kindness? Give some everyday examples of it.
10. What is love? Give some everyday examples of it.
11. How important are these characteristics to your spiritual growth?
FRIDAY 8/14/20 2 Peter 1:1-11
1. In verses 5 through 7 Peter speaks of the characteristics we need to supplement our faith with – to pursue!
2. What does verse 8 say about the fact that if we are growing in these qualities, what is the effect?
3. How does this growth affect you personally – your marriage, family, and others you spend time with?
4. What does verse 9 say about the person who fails to pursue and grow in these qualities?
5. Why do so many individuals and churches seem to forget and take for granted what Christ has done for us?
6. Spend time today in prayer thanking the Lord for your salvation – what He did for you. (Romans 5:8, John 3:16)
SATURDAY 8/15/20 2 Peter 1:1-11
1. In verse 10 Peter reminds us again to work hard – make every effort to be diligent in our pursuit of Christ (of spiritual growth).
2. What are the benefits of this pursuit during our time here on earth?
3. What type of reward does Peter describe in verse 11 at the end of a believers’ life here on earth?
4. Spend time today praying for a desire and commitment to pursuing Christ and these qualities.
Also pray for the worship and the message tomorrow morning at 11:00 a.m.
- Pray for Wes and the worship team.
- Pray for Pastor Jack as he preaches.
- Pray for the presence of God to overwhelm our hearts.
- Pray for the qualities/virtues in verse 5 – 7 to be evident in our lives and our church.
A LIVING HOPE: Clothed In Humility – the Difference It Makes! 1 Peter 5:5-7
TUESDAY 7/7/20 1 Peter 5:5-7
How would you personally describe humility?
Describe the characteristics of someone who has been in your life and displayed humility.
D.L. Moody made the statement, “Be humble or you will stumble!”
Why would the lack of humility cause a person to stumble?
In verse five Peter motivates/tells the younger people in the church to submit/respect the Elders.
Why would this be important?
What do the elders (those who are older) offer to those younger and to the church?
Spend time today praying for the leadership at First Baptist Church and for those who are older.
WEDNESDAY 7/8/20 1 Peter 5:5-7
Peter continues in verse 6 saying to: “clothe yourselves all with humility towards one another…”
What is the meaning of “clothe yourselves”?
Read Philippians 2:5-11
When Peter writes “all of you” he means the whole church (everyone) – …with humility towards one another…
The church is made up of all ages – all generations. What would the younger generation have to offer to the church and to older generations?
Peter challenges all of us to show humility towards each other. What would our church look like with all ages showing humility towards each other?
Read John 13:1-13.
Spend time today praying for humility individually and as a church family. Pray that the spirit of humility would result in lives being changed and the glory of God being lifted up in Madison County.
THURSDAY 7/9/20 1 Peter 5:5-7
In the last part of verse five, Peter said, “…for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
Why does God oppose the proud?
Read Luke 14:11, James 4:6.
Why is humility essential to our relationship with God? (our conversion and our spiritual growth)
Why does God oppose/hate pride?
Read 1 John 2:16.
What are some of the characteristics of a prideful person?
How does pride hinder our relationships with God? With other people? How can pride affect a church?
The old and the young (all ages) are to have the action of submission and the attitude of humility!
Spend time today asking the Lord to reveal to you any prideful areas in your life that are a hindrance to relationships and most of all to your spiritual growth.
FRIDAY 7/10/20 1 Peter 5:5-7
What is the meaning of verse six?
How important is it that we humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God?
What does humbling yourself under God’s mighty hand look like in your life?
Describe the meaning of “the mighty hand of God.”
What are some of the reasons for us to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God?
Verse six ends with “…so that at the proper time He may exalt you,”
Describe the difference between your timing and God’s timing.
Do you struggle with the idea of waiting on God’s timing?
Why is it vital we meet the conditions of verses five and six enabling us to claim the promise of verse seven?
Verse seven “casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.”
“Casting” means throwing – giving.
List the anxieties or worries you have at this time (struggles, stress).
Identify your anxieties and worries.
Describe how your anxieties/worries are presently affecting you. (or in the past)
Has it had an impact on others – your marriage – family – friends – your relationship with the Lord?
What would happen if you cast all (give to the Lord) your anxieties and worries?
ow would it impact your health – your relationships – and especially your relationship with the Lord?
What will it take for you to do it?
Imagine how your life would be impacted. (and others)
Humility of mind is protection against anxiety! Read Philippians 4:6-7.
Why should we? “…because He cares for you.”
It’s your choice!
- The action of submission!
- The attitude of humility!
- Under the mighty Hand of God!
Close today praying for God to reveal your anxieties/worries and to give you the desire and humility to cast/give them to the Lord!
SATURDAY 7/11/20
Read through 1 Peter 5:8-9
Apply these verses to your life.
Identify your struggles and spiritual warfare in your life.
How can you stand firm in the midst of temptations, evil, and chaos in our world today?
Pray for the service tomorrow at 11:00 a.m.
“The State of the Church!”
Pray also for FBC KIDZ Hour at 12:00 Noon – ‘SuperHeroes.”