tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-100255212024-03-19T12:05:13.634+10:30<br><br><br>"Your story matters! Tell it well. Tell it often." <br>
Dave Edgren - StorytellerDave Edgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00495179522905330405noreply@blogger.comBlogger910125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-2068218304747840642024-03-17T19:44:00.006+10:302024-03-17T20:10:36.470+10:30Restory Church: Interpretive Guides are Intentional Disciple-Makers<p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCSHTvs_3NQWQylb21Ows7br18K_6biXZXljGkz5IeZ3460vdnTP7GnUItuSHB83H3r3Sk1EOD5li_CmtkXmFJsfXB8sk3EChrqItkIuMJlTWxZidINB2Ylv2EcaA9leElSKJsehkkx846wbf8yn0f7mkhRcG4nMN3eHWnKgbbAQH08geuYxYL/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(48).jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.32px;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank">More Restory Church Posts</a></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table>The healthy church is a landscape of spiritual mentorship where disciples recognise their role as disciple-makers. They mentor others as interpretive guides – individuals who lead others through life's decisions and faith transitions while also equipping them with the same skills. In essence, they empower others to become guides themselves, fostering a ripple effect of wisdom and support within the church and wider community. Disciples are disciple-makers.<p></p><p>At the core of this approach lies the art of interpretive guidance. Imagine working at an info booth in a city - handing out maps and helping travellers interpret those maps. Or working in a national park as a trail guide where you serve as both interpreter of the people and their skills and the guide leading them, based on their skill level, to their destination on a route they can both enjoy and accomplish. An interpretive guide is not a scholar but a well-resourced friend. </p><p>Being an interpretive guide in a faith setting is a practice that invites deep reflection, exploration, and understanding. Rather than offering ready-made solutions, Interpretive guides are disciple-makers who facilitate a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. They ask thought-provoking questions, listen empathetically, and create a safe space for individuals to wrestle with life's complexities.</p><p>Consider the story of Sarah, a young professional grappling with a career dilemma. Unsure of which path to take, she turns to her interpretive guide, Rachel, for guidance. Through a series of reflective conversations, Rachel helps Sarah explore her values, passions, and long-term aspirations. They pray together and delve into the Scriptures, seeking wisdom and discernment. With Rachel's gentle guidance, Sarah gains clarity and confidence to make a decision aligned with her faith and purpose.</p><p>Similarly, John finds himself navigating a challenging faith transition. Feeling adrift and uncertain, he seeks support from his disciple-maker, Mark. Through their discussions, Mark encourages John to explore his doubts and questions, providing a safe space for him to voice his struggles. They pray together, and examine theological teachings and scientific research, allowing John to reconcile his faith journey with newfound insights.</p><p>The impact of interpretive guides who are also disciple-makers extends beyond individual guidance. They also invest in the development of future leaders, equipping disciples with the skills of Scriptural interpretation and spiritual wisdom. As disciples learn to guide others through life's complexities, they not only deepen their own understanding but also multiply disciples within their church community.</p><p>Imagine a network of empowered leaders, each serving as a beacon of guidance and encouragement to those in need. This is the vision of Interpretive guide disciple-makers – a community committed to walking alongside others, offering light in times of darkness and hope in moments of uncertainty.</p><p>If you feel called to join this transformative journey, I invite you to embrace the role of being an Interpretive guide disciple-maker. Whether you're a seasoned mentor or a budding disciple, there's a place for you in this movement of empowerment and growth. Ask a leader you respect to mentor you. And, offer the invitation to a new Christian to “Follow me as I follow Christ.”</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">10 Skills of an Interpretive Guide<br /></span></b></p><p><b>Empathy:</b> The ability to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering a deep connection and creating a safe space for exploration.</p><p><b>Active Listening:</b> Being fully present and engaged in the conversation, allowing individuals to express themselves freely and feel heard.</p><p><b>Cultural Competence:</b> Understanding and respecting diverse cultural perspectives, ensuring inclusivity and relevance in interpretive discussions.</p><p><b>Open-mindedness:</b> Maintaining a non-judgmental attitude and being open to various interpretations, allowing for a richer exploration of theological concepts.</p><p><b>Effective Communication:</b> Clearly conveying ideas and concepts, adapting communication styles to meet the diverse needs of those seeking interpretation.</p><p><b>Reflective Practice:</b> Continuously evaluating and improving one's own interpretive skills through self-reflection and learning from experiences.</p><p><b>Balancing Authority and Humility:</b> Striking a balance between sharing knowledge and recognizing the subjective nature of interpretation, promoting a humble approach.</p><p><b>Adaptability:</b> Being flexible in responding to different learning styles, perspectives, and unexpected shifts in the interpretive process.</p><p><b>Facilitation Skills:</b> Guiding group discussions effectively, creating an environment that encourages active participation and respectful dialogue.</p><p><b>Spiritual Wisdom:</b> Drawing from a deep understanding of religious teachings and practices, providing a solid foundation for interpretation within a spiritual context.</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Interpretive Guide Coaching Session and Example Questions</span></b></p><p><b>Opening Reflection: </b>How would you describe your current understanding or feelings about the topic we're exploring today?</p><p><b>Scriptural Connection: </b>Are there any specific scriptures or teachings that come to mind when considering this aspect of your life or situation?</p><p><b>Personal Relevance: </b>How do you see this aspect aligning with your personal values and beliefs?</p><p><b>Historical Perspective: </b>Can you share any experiences or events from your past that might influence your perspective on this matter?</p><p><b>Community Impact: </b>In what ways do you think your beliefs about this topic affect your relationships within your community or congregation?</p><p><b>Exploring Alternatives: </b>Have you considered different interpretations or approaches to this issue, and if so, what insights have you gained?</p><p><b>Practical Application: </b>How might your understanding of this concept guide your actions and decisions in your daily life?</p><p><b>Open-ended Inquiry: </b>Is there anything else you'd like to share or explore regarding this topic that we haven't touched upon?</p><p><b>Reflective Pause: </b>Take a moment to reflect on our conversation. What thoughts or feelings arise as you consider our discussion?</p><p><b>Future Integration: </b>How can you integrate the insights gained from our conversation into your ongoing spiritual journey and practical living?</p><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Interpretive Guide Life Topics and Example Questions</span></b></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguaO98snHbPsBGpCVPTg3AK3Ep2JVDXmk43YqA9ykJ_wcjtJLurMeOeEGMtapEVtNlEGErq55vBJqjl-RAfpsLl16sMUwq9R4KQIhV1Tc4TMSetIai5Myasgm9kpt3-9EBvTrjpovZ-Cyvq1KtfILdnPMcBu7CJ24qUqFDUNf7M9Usm1g2TbVS/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(41).jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12.32px;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank">More Restory Church Posts</a></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><b>Core Values Assessment: </b>What values are most important to you in making this decision? How do they align with your spiritual beliefs?<p></p><p><b>Prayerful Consideration: </b>Have you taken time to pray about this decision, seeking guidance from God?</p><p><b>Wise Counsel: </b>Have you sought advice from trusted individuals within your faith community or mentors who can provide valuable perspectives?</p><p><b>Scriptural Guidance: </b>Are there scriptures or teachings that directly relate to the decision you are facing? How can they inform your choice?</p><p><b>Past Learning: </b>Reflect on previous life decisions. What lessons have you learned from those experiences that might be relevant to the current decision?</p><p><b>Spiritual Goals Alignment: </b>How does this decision align with your spiritual goals and the broader purpose you believe you are called to?</p><p><b>Inner Peace Indicator: </b>When you think about each option, pay attention to your inner sense of peace or unrest. How does each choice impact your spiritual well-being?</p><p><b>Impact on Others: </b>Consider the potential impact of your decision on your relationships and community. How might it align with your commitment to others?</p><p><b>Long-Term Vision: </b>Envision the long-term consequences of each choice. How do they align with your vision for your life within the framework of your faith?</p><p><b>Trusting the Process: </b>Are you willing to trust in the guidance of your faith and embrace the uncertainty that comes with making decisions in alignment with your spiritual beliefs?</p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-41947177731488521802024-03-17T10:49:00.006+10:302024-03-17T18:23:39.604+10:30Restory Church: Cultivating a Healthy Narrative - Empowering Lay-Led Church Communities<span id="docs-internal-guid-85b6f4f1-7fff-2582-3516-1be5dd1fb7e6"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p></span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxK0CLpxet2ElFxd8jLaU7tVG1oju_oT_fpWEVzY7R2MuQKfL7XisL9N2X24B7vjQ9lyJpHkYnHKE03loAirHyChnvwUvLUYojNSNFv5HTL9IqGF3d6DLeYzbFvnNVYPF0FRqTwvBz6OTtl9gY1MUy5TNNZlxnDy4WJSV4j_gg4qrl8vSOxKrf/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(40).jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #993300; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino Linotype, Palatino, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12.32px;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank">More Restory Church Posts</a></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Due to financial strain caused by declining attendance, recession, and increased cost of living a crucial shift is needed in the landscape of church leadership and management dynamics. This restructuring must place volunteers, the local laity, at the forefront of faith community building. <br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">While this financial strain may be the impetus for change, it will not serve well as the master story. Bad news grabs eager eyeballs but it doesn’t grow healthy hearts. Stories of hellfire do not generate lasting change. Stories of the Kingdom of God and its eternal reign of love, healing and peace are so effective that Jesus made them His bread and butter - and His Kingdom is still growing! A meta-narrative that connects the local church with the eternal Kingdom is the only story that will do. Jesus is all. </span></p><span><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Cultivating a healthy narrative within a lay-led church community is not just about sharing stories but about educating and empowering individuals to shape their story through intentional engagement. Behavioural change specialists say to change a habit - personal or corporate - only one thing is needed: record keeping. The questions you follow up with story-gathering (statistics/responses) will motivate change. While it may feel like a watched pot never boils, watching behaviour intentionally (record keeping) causes rapid change in groups and individuals. So, let's explore how to foster the creation of a healthy church narrative through the crafting of personal, relational, and communal skills.</span></p><div><span><br /></span></div><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>1. Personal Skills: Unveiling Authentic Narratives</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">At the heart of a healthy narrative lies the power of personal connections. Empower individuals to share their life stories, fostering genuine connections within the community. This involves:</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Sharing Personal Stories: </b>Encourage individuals to articulate their faith journeys, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences. What has Jesus done for you or in you this week?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Intentionality:</b> Guide members to align their actions with their values, fostering purposeful engagement. How did your faith guide your decisions this week?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Cultural Competency:</b> Equip individuals with the skills to navigate diverse backgrounds with sensitivity and understanding. What idea or reality did you open your heart to outside your comfort zone this week?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Prayer and Discernment: </b>Foster a practice of prayerful discernment, guiding individuals to understand the needs of others and shape thoughtful outreach approaches. How did the Holy Spirit guide you toward loving others this week?</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>2. Relational Skills: Crafting Meaningful Connections</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Effective communication is key to nurturing a healthy narrative within the community. Elevate the relational fabric by:</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Effective Communication:</b> Enhance communication skills by inverting in meaningful connections that resonate within the community. Who have you connected to in the wider community this week?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Active Listening:</b> Develop the ability to listen attentively and comprehend the stories and experiences of fellow community members. What did you learn by saying “tell me more” this week?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Invitational Mindset:</b> Cultivate an inviting approach that welcomes others into the folds of the community with warmth and inclusivity. What invitations did you accept this week? What invitations did you give?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Conflict Resolution:</b> Equip individuals with the grace to resolve differences, preserving positive relationships within the community. How did you serve as a mediator this week?</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>3. Communal Skills: Bridging Gaps for Growth</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">A healthy narrative thrives when all members actively contribute to the growth and engagement of the church. Foster communal skills by:</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Community Needs Assessment:</b> Understand and address specific local needs to lay the foundation for impactful community engagement. What needs have you seen this week?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Inclusive Outreach Strategies: </b>Craft approaches that appeal to a diverse audience, ensuring the community is welcoming to all. What demographic have you seen uniquely served this week? What demographic did you see in need of loving attention?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Active Community Engagement:</b> Beyond traditional church settings, involve members in various activities to strengthen community bonds. What intentional group outside the church (club/craft) have you engaged in this week? </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Digital Outreach Skills:</b> Harness the potential of digital platforms for effective communication and outreach efforts. How have you lifted Christ up online this week? How have you built people up online this week?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Hospitality Training:</b> Create a welcoming atmosphere where newcomers feel embraced and comfortable within the community. How has your involvement in church this week focused on making people feel safe or welcoming new people?</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Conclusion:</b></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">By focusing our teaching, dialogue and record-keeping on the cultivation of Personal, Relational, and Communal skills, disciple-makers will reshape the church community to hear and tell a healthy narrative about themselves. This intentional approach not only fosters a holistic inreach/outreach community but also strengthens the collective identity and purpose of the lay-led church. Together, these skills weave a narrative of inclusivity, authenticity, and connection. Thus paving the way for a church community that flourishes under the guidance of its empowered and intentional members.</span></p></span><p> </p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-11329963649053442592024-03-16T14:30:00.009+10:302024-03-16T15:53:02.712+10:30Jesus Journey - Part 7 - Mark 4:21-34<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PltFv9YoMvk" width="433" youtube-src-id="PltFv9YoMvk"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>In this 7th episode of the Jesus Journey, the focus being Mark chapter 4:21-34, we build on the exploration of the Parable of the Sower in episode 6. The discussion delves into more parables and teachings of Jesus, aiming to provide insight into the workings of the Kingdom of God.<br /><br /><br /><b>Key Points:<br /></b><br />Parable of the Lamp: Jesus begins with a metaphor about a lamp, emphasizing that nothing hidden will remain so forever. This sets the stage for understanding the purpose of his cryptic teachings.<br /><br />Parables of Seeds: Jesus follows up with parables about seeds, highlighting the growth of the kingdom of God. The mustard seed analogy underscores how something small can yield significant results.<br /><br />Interpretation of Parables: The discussion elucidates the deeper meanings behind Jesus' parables, emphasizing the role of the church in illuminating the truths about God in the Bible as revealed through Jesus.<br /><br />Understanding the Kingdom of God: Through these parables, Jesus reveals the nature of the kingdom of God and the process of spiritual growth. Good soil, representing receptive hearts, yields abundant fruit.<br /><br />Role of Believers: Believers are likened to lampstands, meant to shine the light of Christ who dwells in them as the church. By staying connected to Jesus and his teachings, we become vessels for spreading the message of salvation.<br /><br /><br /><b>Conclusion:<br /></b><br />The passage underscores the transformative power of Jesus' teachings and the responsibility of believers to share the light of His Word. Through understanding and embracing the Kingdom of God, individuals become agents of spiritual growth and Kingdom growth. The journey of faith involves continual nourishment and cultivation, leading to a deeper connection with Christ and a greater capacity to grow the Kingdom.Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-36547398543702165122024-03-16T09:30:00.049+10:302024-03-18T06:59:59.910+10:30Restory Church: Dear Mr President<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOqGcxfVrtVjO2F6-A2U20qR-Ibmygua34iLn5tJfEcbsBUSmlsdjNKcR0KQPpiHOgXSOKcon6gZh2ihSUWaZKC2bUXSbW9habYFKWGZ39fl197MxnAhgUwI5Aj8_TsH0uuOuNJEfjRLg9vn0_KXcZQv9Nqj_ae32xHXmkanZpo6_Y61y57ccQ/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(28).jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html">More Restory Church Posts</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Last week, my heart broke for the president of the Oregon Conference of Seventh-day Adventists when I <a href="https://fb.watch/qOxS5Vwhxc/" target="_blank">watched his video</a> and <a href="https://www.oregonadventist.org/news/an-open-letter-to-the-oc-family-from-dan-linrud-oregon-conference-president" target="_blank">read his open letter</a>. He had to announce severe cutbacks in spending made necessary primarily by attendance dropping by 75 per cent after COVID. There are, of course, other factors. Watch the video and read the open letter for more details. <br /><br />I knew the president would have been receiving all kinds of negative feedback. So, I put on my thinking cap and wrote a positive letter of encouragement with some ideas. These ideas have not left me alone since and are the reason for the <a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank">Restory Church</a> series. <br /><br /><div>Change is hard. And it's here. </div><div>Be kind in the midst of it. Always!</div><div><br /></div><div>Here is the letter. <br /><br />-x-x-x-x-<br /><br />Dear Pastor Dan,<br /><br />I watched your <a href="https://fb.watch/qOxS5Vwhxc/" target="_blank">video </a>when you released it and read your <a href="https://www.oregonadventist.org/news/an-open-letter-to-the-oc-family-from-dan-linrud-oregon-conference-president" target="_blank">open letter</a> this morning. I can only imagine the stress you are under. My heart and prayers have been with Oregon this past month and you in particular.<br /><br />On my morning walk today, after reading your open letter, my brain was racing. This is going to snowball. You are the bravest and therefore the first to say things publicly. Clearly, a new strategy must be implemented or the corporate death that looms will arrive. I spent the rest of the morning considering two questions. 1. What must the laity become to change the world for Christ? 2. How can we train the clergy to empower this laity movement?<br /><br />As we navigate the challenges of declining attendance and increasing costs associated with paid clergy, empowering the laity is the only viable solution.<br /><br />We can turn things around if pastors become enablers. Attendance will increase and new members will join the church if we resource and empower our pastors to be trainers and facilitators in the following three areas.<br /><br />1. Personal Skills: Encouraging laity to share personal stories, be intentional in their interactions, develop cultural competency, and employ prayer and discernment in their outreach efforts.<br /><br />2. Relational Skills: Providing training in effective communication, active listening, an invitational mindset, and conflict resolution to enhance interpersonal relationships.<br /><br />3. Communal Skills: Guiding laity in conducting community needs assessments, employing inclusive outreach strategies, actively engaging in community activities, utilizing digital platforms for outreach, and receiving hospitality training.<br /><br />A laity trained in Christlikeness and then loosed on the world will rescue the church and hasten the soon coming of Christ through personal relationships. The principle was Jesus' first: Love God, Love neighbour. It must be ours, now. <br /><br />Beautiful people attract people. If Christ be lifted up - oh the hope of it!<br /><br />May the Lord bless you and give you peace as you change the world for Him! Your leadership and open communication inspire me all the way over here in Australia. Continue in strength.<br /><br />I would love to be involved in future brainstorming sessions and however else you wish. I don't want money, just so you know. My brother lives in your conference. Like so many, he left God long ago. It would be a blessing to see him loved into Jesus!<br /><br />Know this: What you are doing is a light on a hill for many other conference leaders. Courage to you as you weather the storm and arrows that come when you lead the pack!<br /><br />Keep changing the world!<br /><br />Dave Edgren<br /><br />-x-x-x-x-<div><br /><br /><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEise2sBGnAp9wifeOJiG54Gum8NoWl0vJdjVtFBfx5_A9SseuWyXQdhGWboiCOmzQfPNFc6ygCgDhaDR36L10_ZFbKFhHe9vfIFl0ZuOHEHLRBAk3B_XBmt5-HHSiCri8Ly37SHFmsTzymmCChnOJ7K9ejnFqqZrA-vr41wEZpvZzS8IFCWXVPL/w200-h200/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(27).jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>Reflections<br /></b><br />I received a very grateful and inspiring email in response from Pastor Dan. I cherish it! <br /><br /><br /><div>What are the key things you see facing the health and growth of the church?<br /><br />What are your thoughts about my assessment and suggestions?<br /><br />Please read the other <a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank">Restory Church Posts</a> and then comment on what you think of the “Restory Church” concept? How does it help?<br /><br /><br />Please write in the comment section or <a href="mailto:davedgren@gmail.com" target="_blank">email me</a> at davedgren@gmail.com<br /></div></div></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-79161112327976922632024-03-15T09:00:00.008+10:302024-03-18T21:02:42.615+10:30 Restory Church: Jesus Culture - Lay-Led Storytelling <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVLpxPuWx1PlHvZO0Io4sLMNqoQjLF5JteXPCEhDYf5s06CjuiW8vzfKPUrer0AT3W-ajAbffWPZ65A8H-p3uLukSurP84pkv7XXrCJPCCCDA7Cb1_Xw61YXxOhb8IOnn-pyJStSDRfqsMvrDjcgzktNHlokOd8Q1-8cA5h4UcKdwmHDLwHJh/s1536/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(25).jpeg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVLpxPuWx1PlHvZO0Io4sLMNqoQjLF5JteXPCEhDYf5s06CjuiW8vzfKPUrer0AT3W-ajAbffWPZ65A8H-p3uLukSurP84pkv7XXrCJPCCCDA7Cb1_Xw61YXxOhb8IOnn-pyJStSDRfqsMvrDjcgzktNHlokOd8Q1-8cA5h4UcKdwmHDLwHJh/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(25).jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank">More Restory Church Posts</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div>In the pages of the Gospels, we encounter a profound example of storytelling and grassroots community-building. Jesus, the ultimate disciple-maker, walked the dusty roads of Palestine, engaging with people from all walks of life through parables, miracles, and intimate conversations. As we delve into his life and ministry, we uncover a treasure trove of wisdom that illuminates our path towards a Restory Church—a community rooted in the storytelling culture and lay-led structure exemplified by Jesus himself.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Power of Parables</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Throughout his ministry, Jesus used parables to convey deep spiritual truths in a way that resonated with his audience. These simple yet profound stories served as mirrors reflecting the everyday experiences of his listeners while challenging them to consider the deeper implications of his teachings.</div><div><br /></div><div>Take, for example, the Parable of the Good Samaritan. In this timeless story, Jesus challenges societal norms and prejudices by portraying a despised Samaritan as the hero who demonstrates true compassion and neighbourly love. Through this narrative, Jesus not only teaches the essence of loving one's neighbour but also models a radical inclusivity that transcends cultural barriers—a lesson that remains as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Empowering Disciple-Makers</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Central to Jesus' ministry was the training and equipping of his disciples to become disciple-makers themselves. Unlike the hierarchical structures of religious leadership prevalent in his time, Jesus embraced a lay-led approach, empowering ordinary men and women to carry forth the message of the Kingdom.</div><div><br /></div><div>Consider the calling of the first disciples by the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus did not recruit scholars or religious elites but rather fishermen and tax collectors—individuals deeply rooted in their communities and familiar with the rhythms of everyday life. Through intentional mentoring, storytelling, and shared experiences, Jesus transformed these humble street people into bold proclaimers of the Gospel, laying the foundation for a decentralized and lay-led movement that spread like wildfire across the ancient world and into today.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Mentoring and Community Building</b></div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to his public ministry, Jesus engaged in intimate mentoring relationships with his disciples, inviting them into a deeper understanding of his teachings and mission. Whether sharing meals, walking together on the road, or withdrawing to pray in solitude, Jesus modelled a relational approach to leadership that prioritized authenticity, vulnerability, and mutual support.</div><div><br /></div><div>One such poignant example is found in Jesus' interactions with Peter. Despite Peter's flaws and failures, Jesus continually invested in him, challenging him to rise above his limitations and lead by example rather than bravado. Through moments of correction, affirmation, and restoration, Jesus demonstrated the transformative power of mentoring within the context of a loving and supportive community.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Towards a Restory Church</b></div><div><br /></div><div>As we reflect on the life and ministry of Jesus, let us reimagine the church not as a rigid institution but as a dynamic and inclusive community grounded in the principles of storytelling, disciple-making, and lay-led leadership. A Restory Church embraces the storytelling culture of Jesus, recognizing the power of narrative to bridge divides, challenge assumptions, and inspire transformation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Furthermore, a Restory Church nurtures a culture of grassroots leadership, where every member is empowered to become a disciple-maker and agent of change within their sphere of influence. By fostering mentoring relationships, sharing stories of faith and transformation, and embracing the diversity of gifts and perspectives within the community, we pave the way for a church that is truly reflective of the Kingdom of God—a diverse tapestry of individuals united in love, purpose and mission.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Walking like Jesus<br /></b></div><div><br /></div><div>It's time to embody the lay-led grassroots community structure exemplified by Jesus, the ultimate storyteller and disciple-maker. As we walk in his footsteps, may we become catalysts for renewal and transformation, sharing the timeless message of hope, grace, and redemption with a world in desperate need of Good News.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfiZJ-muTHvhDSsTeS0D4KGC178z9xHr8s44v4jN4h4MYhqhyMgitfv8jMzt9_AFf55wgsoe6tFmoHCd5sYs3q6edBdVNBVZG3GGiDNLNRbGa22LeHDU-1QG-24uierNX5wEKlq7_N2cKumfG1D1LqiLD1uN97uMX7k2xqMucqwIDqhuXDdUjR/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(24).jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank">More Restory Church Posts</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="text-align: left;"></span></div><b>Reflections<br /></b><br /><div>How does storytelling and disciple-making feature in your following Jesus?<br /><br />How does Jesus' focus on the grassroots community help you?<br /><br />Please read the other <a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank">Restory Church Posts</a> and then comment on what you think of the “Restory Church” concept? How does it help?<br /><br />Please write in the comment section or <a href="mailto:davedgren@gmail.com" target="_blank">email me</a> at davedgren@gmail.com</div></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-64714402784387331852024-03-14T16:45:00.004+10:302024-03-15T21:14:53.617+10:30Restory Church: Reviving Lay Led Community<p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6sa4ViVcJ0FdoPmrYDzovcIOqsU2PJ5164GV1-eeFh5riCJwsPmUI-X_J-7l0DhKwmLodG_kXbkdsoFKcJyvuR-KysT7nF8ptDcSh4tG3shN1N-2EEuzzZZc7Wno8_dtC4vWphq7KxoiIvQdJNtL4nJgRqDBCYzwldwMSHmy37967bAmUr3E4/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(3).jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.davedgren.com/2013/03/28-stories-exploring-adventist-faith.html" target="_blank">More Restory Church Posts</a></td></tr></tbody></table>To save the church, we must restore lay-led community, not as a nostalgic yearning for the past, but as a strategic move in the preservation of our faith communities. To walk the Kingdom journey as Jesus did, a Restory Church wears two sandals: <div>1. the cultivation of a healthy narrative </div><div>2. the shaping of interpretive leaders </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Healthy Narrative</b></div><div><p>The foundation of any thriving community lies in the stories it tells itself. The narrative of a community serves as its collective identity, shaping the values, beliefs, and aspirations of its members. In the context of church restoration, it becomes imperative to craft a narrative that not only reflects rich traditions but also resonates with contemporary lives.</p><p>By sharing an experience that bridges the timeless teachings of the church with the challenges and triumphs of the present, a healthy narrative emerges. This narrative becomes a guiding light, fostering unity and shared purpose among the diverse individuals who make up a healthy congregation. This tapestry that binds generations, will emphasize the need for the church in our increasingly fragmented society.</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Interpretive Guides</b></p><p>At the forefront of this revival stand a redefined church leadership – interpretive guides – leaders who go beyond traditional roles to engage with the congregation on a deeper level. These leaders understand the pulse of the community and act as mediators between the sacred teachings and the lived experiences of the individuals.</p><p>Interpretive guides do not strive to be authorities but lead by being empathetic listeners, wise storytellers, and catalysts for meaningful dialogue. Through their guidance, the congregation navigates the complexities of modern life while staying grounded in the principles of the church. They interpret the teachings in a way that resonates with the current context, ensuring that the church remains a relevant and dynamic force in the lives of its members.</p><p><br /></p><p><b>A Thriving Church</b></p><p>Restoring the church to a lay-led community is not a return to a bygone era but a strategic evolution. Churches are dying for lack of being needed. A thriving church recognizes the need for unity, shared purpose, and relevance in the face of societal shifts. The interplay of a healthy narrative and interpretive leadership forms the backbone of this cohesive movement.</p><p>As interpretive guides lead the congregation through the evolving landscape, the healthy narrative serves as the compass, pointing towards a collective vision. Together, they pave the way for a church that is not just a place to house a denomination but a vibrant community that thrives on connection, understanding, and shared growth. A thriving church is not a place to go but a place to be.</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Restory Church</b></p><p>A Restory Church is an intentional community with a healthy narrative, interpretive leadership, and thriving relationships. It is my hope that you will choose to be a Restory Church! Over the next handful of blog posts, I will walk down this sandal-worn path and hope at where it leads. We will explore church, community, purpose, relationships, and leadership to learn to walk as Jesus did and live a cross-shaped story. </p><p>Let's do this!</p><p><br /></p><p>Dave the Storyteller</p><p>P.S. Please comment or email me if you have ideas, questions, or stories that illustrate the points I'm trying to make. Thanks!</p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP75R1pT0nkjeOL24R5gpqkpFl4BgjfkSIp6egV0oYnFhAsQil-WJk9odiTzocIbngZWc-ka8wnNRwza8w7UVLUss4pTs89ZOS7pu0faA9nn8Y0IrBj6AnvzSKZpbn6YKgnCNTRfQ0VFJjwWtOpq3cZToxZAyKCfXx-aY6AGGoSPWJ1l1sHwrg/s1536/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(32).jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP75R1pT0nkjeOL24R5gpqkpFl4BgjfkSIp6egV0oYnFhAsQil-WJk9odiTzocIbngZWc-ka8wnNRwza8w7UVLUss4pTs89ZOS7pu0faA9nn8Y0IrBj6AnvzSKZpbn6YKgnCNTRfQ0VFJjwWtOpq3cZToxZAyKCfXx-aY6AGGoSPWJ1l1sHwrg/w200-h200/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(32).jpeg" width="200" /></a></b></div><b>Reflections<br /></b><br />How are you involved in creating a healthy narrative in your church? In your family? In yourself? <p></p><p>What are the key things you see facing the health and growth of the church?</p><div>How do you understand being an Interpretive Guide? Who is yours?<br /></div><div><br />Please write in the comment section or <a href="mailto:davedgren@gmail.com" target="_blank">email me</a> at davedgren@gmail.com</div></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-59009724601736471402024-03-09T14:30:00.016+10:302024-03-11T07:13:46.343+10:30 Jesus Journey - Part 6 - Mark 4:1-20Jesus was playing the long game when he told parables. Thoughts?<br /><div><br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AVjkEf1URss?si=It1dHNk2qDBzSMH_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>What is your favourite parable?<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div>Introduction:</div><div>Embarking on the exploration of Mark 4:1-20 in the Jesus Journey's sixth episode, we delve into the profound teachings of Jesus through parables. This passage, featuring the renowned Parable of the Sower, encapsulates layers of wisdom that invite us to reflect on the nature of the Kingdom of God.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Setting:</div><div>As the episode unfolds, we find Jesus at the sea, addressing a vast crowd from a boat. Employing the picturesque backdrop of the sea and shoreline, Mark portrays Jesus teaching through parables, a narrative style that conceals deeper meanings within seemingly simple stories.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Parable Unveiled:</div><div>The Parable of the Sower takes center stage, where Jesus unfolds a narrative about a sower scattering seeds on various types of soil. The imagery of seeds falling on different terrains symbolizes the varied receptions of the Gospel message, serving as a metaphor for the different responses people exhibit towards God's word.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Questions Arise:</div><div>Following the parable, Jesus is approached by those around him, and the twelve disciples, with inquiries about the purpose and significance of the parables. This moment sets the stage for a profound exploration into the mysteries of the Kingdom of God.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Secret of the Kingdom:</div><div>In response, Jesus unveils the secret of the Kingdom of God, explaining that to those within, the mysteries are revealed, but to those outside, the truth remains veiled in parables. He cites Isaiah, emphasizing the intentional obscurity to prevent understanding for specific reasons.</div><div><br /></div><div>A Mark Sandwich:</div><div>Mark, the storyteller, employs his characteristic "Mark sandwich" technique, framing the central teaching with bookend stories and statements like "listen." This technique emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the hidden layers of meaning within the parables.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Secret of the Kingdom:</div><div>Sandwiched between the Parable of the Sower and its explanation, Mark 4:11-12 puts a twist on Isaiah's Call in Isaiah 6:1-11 by changing one word. This highlights a parallel between the mysterious nature of God's "not yet" message given in Isaiah 6, the ministry of Jesus and the hidden keys to the Kingdom within his parables. Both show spiritual discernment is needed to understand what God is doing. Parables hint at an answer to Isaiah's question "How Long?" How long until the Kingdom would be revealed? Parables pull back the veil to let us peek into the Kingdom of God!</div><div><br /></div><div>Interpreting the Parable:</div><div>There are a variety of ways this parable could have been applied before Mark wrote his down. Possibilities: The effectiveness of parables. The effectiveness of Jesus' ministry. The reception the disciples received in new locations. The escalating power of the Gospel throughout time. Each layer of interpretation adds depth to the overarching message of the parable culminating with Jesus' interpretation in Mark - The effectiveness of the Word of God. </div><div><br /></div><div>A Divine Challenge:</div><div>Jesus challenges the understanding of the disciples, urging them to grasp the essence of the parable. He then imparts a singular interpretation, categorizing the various responses to the Word of God as represented by the types of soil in the parable.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Call to Transformation:</div><div>Mark concludes with a cautionary note, emphasizing the need for hearts to be transformed, drawing from Ezekiel's proclamation of a heart change. Mark's message is echoed by Augustine's exhortation to break the hardness, remove the obstacles, and cultivate a heart receptive to God's Word.</div><div><br /></div><div>Conclusion:</div><div>Mark 4:1-20 introduces the reader to the power of parables. Particularly the richness of the Parable of the Sower and the profound insights it offers about the Kingdom of God. The challenge remains: are we the good ground that welcomes, retains, and bears fruit for the glory of God?</div></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-9754835419729129982024-03-01T10:16:00.002+10:302024-03-10T07:45:19.948+10:30Jesus Journey - Part 5 - Mark 3:7-35<p>"Whose are Youse?" </p><p>What does it mean to live under the authority of Christ? Mark 3 gives a great answer.</p><p> Jesus says anyone who does the will of God is His family. That's pretty awesome! </p><p>If God is our Father, we obey Him and are at home with Jesus.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yM3d-72DF2g" width="425" youtube-src-id="yM3d-72DF2g"></iframe></div><br /><p>Welcome back to our exploration of the Book of Mark. This time, we delve into the remainder of chapter 3. Although we've only scratched the surface of this chapter, starting at verse 7, we will navigate through to the end, offering insights and reflections on various aspects. </p><p>This chapter of Mark zeroes in on people's thoughts, reactions, and actions concerning Jesus. It scrutinizes the different approaches various groups had toward Him. </p><p>The initial segment, spanning Mark 3:7-12, titled "Ministering to the Multitude," narrates how a massive crowd followed Jesus from Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, beyond the Jordan, Tyre, and Sidon. The crowd's sheer size led Jesus to take precautions, even using a small boat to avoid being crushed. The text emphasizes the tangible healing power of Jesus, as people pressed toward Him, seeking a touch that brought miraculous healing.</p><p>Moving on to Mark 3:13-20, we encounter the naming of the twelve apostles. Jesus, on a mountain, specifically called those He wanted, appointing twelve as apostles. Notably, He gave Simon the name Peter, James and John the name "Boanerges" or "Sons of Thunder." This section underscores Jesus' deliberate delegation of authority, both for preaching and driving out demons, marking a pivotal moment in the establishment of His ministry.</p><p>The chapter further unfolds in Mark 3:20-30, titled "A House Divided." Here, Jesus addresses the uncomfortable reactions from His family and the accusations from scribes who assert that He expels demons by the ruler of demons, Beelzebul. Jesus employs parables to challenge this narrative, emphasizing the inherent contradiction in Satan opposing himself. He declares that His actions are rooted in binding the strong man (Satan) to plunder his possessions. The gravity of blaspheming against the Holy Spirit is highlighted, suggesting an eternal consequence.</p><p>Finally, in Mark 3:31-35, entitled "True Relationships," Jesus' family seeks Him, prompting His response that redefines familial ties. Jesus asserts that those doing the will of God are His true family, transcending biological connections.</p><p>As we conclude this exploration, remember that Jesus invites us into His family by aligning ourselves with the will of God. Embrace the transformative power of Christ, allowing His love and authority to shape your identity and relationships.</p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-76288978934855839042024-02-22T10:11:00.003+10:302024-03-06T16:17:23.180+10:30Getting back to the heart of worship with Jeroboam<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU9X-DzNJWGcCctFF4wCeOu-3SiOD2rt59ZxVx70mFdm71agsMEuavJ7i4WKYr-sBfi7PlPe_PLfLtRY5Jry3iRUcuELcj8Bzj5P3PMxI63WWOR_bx-AmDh0LvxFwh3art4xRfZuF57vV7tXngUzimE5tlsNGVne0NvIMtWT-JbTQO4IUKH3kF/s1536/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(2).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU9X-DzNJWGcCctFF4wCeOu-3SiOD2rt59ZxVx70mFdm71agsMEuavJ7i4WKYr-sBfi7PlPe_PLfLtRY5Jry3iRUcuELcj8Bzj5P3PMxI63WWOR_bx-AmDh0LvxFwh3art4xRfZuF57vV7tXngUzimE5tlsNGVne0NvIMtWT-JbTQO4IUKH3kF/w320-h320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(2).jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><b>Jeroboam was meant for greatness in the Kingdom of God. What happened? </b><div><br /><p></p><p>1 Kings 11:37–38 (CSB): 37 I will appoint you, and you will reign as king over all you want, and you will be king over Israel. </p><p>38 “ ‘After that, if you obey all I command you, walk in my ways, and do what is right in my sight in order to keep my statutes and my commands as my servant David did, I will be with you. I will build you a lasting dynasty just as I built for David, and I will give you Israel."</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Read the rest of the story in 1 Kings 11.</b> <br />Why did Jeroboam fall? Avoid answering quickly. Put yourself in his shoes. Imagine his life. Where was his "leader's heart" emotionally/relationally when he established Israel's new worship scene? Was it all about worship? Or was some deeper fear playing on Jeroboam's heart? </p></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-36802944276646963082024-02-11T07:58:00.003+10:302024-03-06T16:26:48.659+10:30 PCF - An Invitation to Bible Study <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghtm-KN-dQfFU-ztmBpcNaaem9hGyrsz_G9iaPR64srxasyEP31G_xCJctDZ1Y17dQfdQAqvWp0or5FE9LPyXYRI1jrSaRVTYFxiZ0AwQjV-ksF0OoiBxFA7aq0ne5INXSHuIcdNmK-efUB4CQXsxD-ovZ0iviJbGcDnAAF3MXY-2dFe-6hUSd/s1536/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(3).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghtm-KN-dQfFU-ztmBpcNaaem9hGyrsz_G9iaPR64srxasyEP31G_xCJctDZ1Y17dQfdQAqvWp0or5FE9LPyXYRI1jrSaRVTYFxiZ0AwQjV-ksF0OoiBxFA7aq0ne5INXSHuIcdNmK-efUB4CQXsxD-ovZ0iviJbGcDnAAF3MXY-2dFe-6hUSd/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(3).jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />When visiting Christian schools for a week of Bible storytelling (they call it Week of Prayer, or other names) I often tell a story on the first day that challenges the kids to read the Bible for themselves. It goes like this:<p></p><p>Last night, your chaplain, took me to a new all-you-can-eat restaurant in the city! It was yum. And, it was weird! There were three serveries. The first had a big sign over it "Square Meals". The next was "Raw n Fresh!" And the final one, "PCF". </p><p>There were a few people in the Square Meals line getting a plate of meat n veg or Lasangna and salad, etc. And there was one person at the Raw n Fresh buffet. But, the line for the PCF servery was huge! It actually went out one of the doors and into the car park! </p><p>I went up to the PCF servery just to look - it was trays of differently coloured sludge - chunks floating in a soupy mess. It was weird. I saw the chef through the window and mouthed, "What is PCF?" He laughed and waved me to the kitchen door. Once inside he showed me a group of chefs preparing gourmet meals. Next, he showed me rows of people eating those meals. </p><p>"To properly digest your food," He said, "You must chew each bite 27 times before swallowing, did you know that?" I shook my head, getting a bit queasy. "Who has time for that?" he continued, "So, we help!"</p><p>I then saw that the 'eaters' were spitting each bite into a bowl next to their plate of perfectly prepared cuisine. Those bowls were collected by food prep hands and put into the large serving trays at the front. </p><p>"Pre Chewed Food," The chef said proudly, "PCF. The world loves it. It's everywhere!"</p><p>By then, the audience of kids are not being quiet and respectful. They are making grossed-out noises, conversation blurts and all kinds of cacophony. </p><p>I stop and face them, "What? You don't believe me?" They all shout, "NO!"</p><p>"Why not?" After taking a few answers, I say, "Because PCF is disgusting, right? Nobody would eat that!" </p><p>"And yet we do. There's Adventist PCF. Baptist PCF. Mormon PCF. Catholic PCF. Christian PCF comes in all flavours and chunkiness! Every time you listen to a sermon - PCF. Every time you read a devotional - PCF. Someone else has already chewed it up and regurgitated it for you!"</p><p>Kids - still grossed out. Concerned looks from staff members... </p><p>"So, this week, I challenge you to get "Raw n Fresh" spiritual meals by reading the Bible for yourself. And get some Square Meals by studying the Bible with a group of friends. And yes, enjoy my PCF. I loved chewing it up for you. But, goodness gracious, please don't live on the stuff!"</p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-1399067643791676402024-02-09T12:19:00.013+10:302024-03-06T16:30:58.310+10:30Psalms 82: Ye are gods - Group discussion guide<p><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivEDGL69WqP4OhY5zs7kx3MJ1DEu8sPhUWFBigruoEq39SEFJko1o1tnJ5Y4DNQhuqdzUUPKXCQGg4u8sEr8aY5vHgXG7_POhH1BQVpSGGM5eilwhhwpYqD9zL8WUBe2dlQJUjZ22J_pdiLV8TPzo2XQVeGUrfO19ByuKMcoywVZbOknETSya/s1536/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(5).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiivEDGL69WqP4OhY5zs7kx3MJ1DEu8sPhUWFBigruoEq39SEFJko1o1tnJ5Y4DNQhuqdzUUPKXCQGg4u8sEr8aY5vHgXG7_POhH1BQVpSGGM5eilwhhwpYqD9zL8WUBe2dlQJUjZ22J_pdiLV8TPzo2XQVeGUrfO19ByuKMcoywVZbOknETSya/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(5).jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br />Introduction</span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Ensure you have a coin with you. Invite group members to take out a coin and look at it.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. What do the images on the two sides represent? Why are these things important to your nation? Why is there always a person on at least one side? What does that person represent?</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Read Matthew 22:15-22</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Even though they were trying to trick Jesus, these Pharisees saw the core attributes of a Godly leader in Jesus. What did they see? (Matt 22:16 - truthful, taught Gods ways, impartial)</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. What does Jesus' coin lesson teach us about the best way to live a Godly life? (Matthew 22:21 - honor and serve God while also respecting leaders)</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Read Psalms 82:1-8</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. It's hard to miss, so let's go there first! Who are the gods in verse 1 and 6? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The same Hebrew word begins and finishes Psalms 82:1 - Elohim. </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Often translated as “God” it can be translated in other ways. Let's take a look at a passage that will help.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Read Exodus 21:2-6</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Which word in this story do you think is a translation of Elohim? (Exodus 21:6 - judges)</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. If you guessed “master” you are not far off. Does anyone know the Hebrew word translated four times in this passage as “master”? (Adonai - Another word commonly translated as “God”) </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Reread Exodus 21:5 replacing the word Master with Adonai. Beautiful, isn't it?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. What can we learn about leadership, parenting, governing and even relationships from the way the Hebrew language freely uses words for God to represent people in authority?</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Two Sides of the Same Coin</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Reread Psalms 82:1-8</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Imagine this Psalm as a script for a stage play. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Verse 1 is the setting. Psalms 82:1</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Verse 2-4 are God's lines addressing the other actors. Psalms 82:2-4</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Verse 5 is narration for the audience's sake. Psalms 82:5</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Verse 6-7 are God's lines addressing the other actors. Psalms 82:6-7</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Verse 8 is Audience's line. (Shouted in unison!) Psalms 82:8</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Which part is your favorite? Why? </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Which part challenges you most? Why?</span></p><br /><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Conclusion</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We have a rare treat in our study today. Jesus has done some of the interpretation of our Psalm for us! </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Read John 10:31-39</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Who does Jesus say the phrase “you are gods” refers to? (John 10:35 “those to whom the Word of God came”)</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. In Jesus’ day, the Word of God was what we now call the Old Testament. To whom were the writings of Moses and the Prophets given? (Israel, the people of God)</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Because of the cross, who are the people of God today? (followers of Jesus)</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Where does this place us in Psalms 82? (as ‘gods’ - leaders under God's authority)</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. How will this inspire you in the way you live your life?</span></p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0Lilydale VIC 3140, Australia-37.7569847 145.35496-66.067218536178842 110.19871 -9.4467508638211513 -179.48879tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-86399313144963199152024-02-03T17:10:00.008+10:302024-02-04T10:08:55.858+10:30The Gospel and You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">What is the Gospel? Is there more than one? What does it mean to live the Gospel?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UlgMG56EmWo" width="320" youtube-src-id="UlgMG56EmWo"></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The word "Gospel" is an Anglo-Saxon word derived from the words "Good Spell" or, more literal in meaning, "Good Story". And that it is. The Gospel is a great story that makes a difference in our lives!</div><div><br /></div><div>When we read the word Gospel in the New Testament it is a translation of the word "Evangelion" which means "Good News." When Jesus used the word, it was a particular kind of good news. It was Kingdom News. </div><div><br /></div><div>When the Roman Empire coronated a new Emperor - they sent out the Evangelion to the far reaches of the world. "Good News! There is a new God King in Rome!" When the Roman army won a battle, they sent the Evangelion to the Emperor in Rome. "Good News! We've won the battle!" </div><div><br /></div><div>So, when Jesus used the word, He meant it in that cultural context. He was using it the way the locals did, not the way we do! He took the Roman meaning and put a God-centered spin on it. You can see it clearly at the beginning of Mark's good spell. "After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God: 'The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!' " Mark 1:14-15 </div><div><p>With Jesus, the Kingdom of God sends Evangelion. The Kingdom of God has come near! Good News! Luke spells out the good spell Jesus was teaching in Luke 4:16-21. It was "good news to the poor." This Kingdom sets captives free, heals the blind and proclaims the year of the Lord's favor! </p><p>After Jesus, the word Evangelion went through another reworking because of the way the Early Church used it. The Roman meaning was left behind and it became a new "Good News". Jesus died for us. He rose to life again. He lives interceding for us. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus. His death, His resurrection and His love are ours to take to heart today. Now, that's Good News! </p><p>As the New Testament closes, in the book of Revelation, Evangelion takes on an even more amazing meaning: "Eternal Good News!" What could that be? How is it different from the Gospel Jesus preached? How is it different from the Gospel of the Early Christian Church? Which is the most important Gospel? </p><p>Watch my sermon for the rest of the Gospel story! It's a wild ride (and some beautiful scenery!)</p><p>Then, let me know what you think!</p><p><br /></p></div>Dave Edgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00495179522905330405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-20080167123441513862024-01-25T12:16:00.032+10:302024-03-06T16:37:18.245+10:30Psalm 121 - Group Discussion Guide<p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDiLGQJ41t1XZneS6bR8TwiNo6tl7WfPuBUW-xebj0Tq3HNozGll3LMIqZ6kOskn8IJ6CzOLZXDfxk8q36K79Wb6ckwHKU_v7g74h3LIfW6OSilj2yBaexCaufJOxPSNJTUuTgcX7fex_gdLnigRH8j6QHj7_FmYqOQ9fjEkY4bWFU5RbS6FqN/s1536/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(7).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDiLGQJ41t1XZneS6bR8TwiNo6tl7WfPuBUW-xebj0Tq3HNozGll3LMIqZ6kOskn8IJ6CzOLZXDfxk8q36K79Wb6ckwHKU_v7g74h3LIfW6OSilj2yBaexCaufJOxPSNJTUuTgcX7fex_gdLnigRH8j6QHj7_FmYqOQ9fjEkY4bWFU5RbS6FqN/s320/Gemini_Generated_Image%20(7).jpeg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b><br />Introduction</b><p></p><p>Some call Psalms 121 "The Traveller's Psalm" as it is about God's protection as we journey. The subtitle "A Song of Ascent" refers to the pilgrimage Israelites took to Jerusalem for sacrifice and worship.</p><p>Some commentators suggest pilgrims would sing this psalm in their camp the night before they reached Jerusalem as they looked at the Holy City. The following psalm (Psalm 122:1-9) takes place within Jerusalem's walls.</p><p>Other commentators suggest that weary travellers would sing this song when they saw the hills of Judah in the distance, knowing Jerusalem was within reach. “I lift my eyes toward the mountains...”</p><p>Whatever the case, it is a song of hope to sing on life's journey.</p><p><br /></p><p>Read Psalm 121:1-8 as a group</p><p>Q. Who is the "I" in this poem? Who is the "you?" </p><p>A. While it could have been written to encourage a friend, Psalm 121 was probably a note from the psalmist to himself. We can certainly benefit from taking it as a personal message of encouragement in our lives! Let it speak to you like a hand-written message from a beloved relative.</p><p><br /></p><p>Read Psalm 121:1 </p><p>When are you most likely to lift your eyes "up" to the Lord? (Prayer)</p><p>This is a song of protection. In the Hebrew text, only one word is used for what our versions translate variously as “watches over,” “preserves,” and “keeps.” That word (shamar) is used six times. It is found twice in the second stanza (vv. 3–4), once in the third stanza (v. 5), and three times in stanza four (once as “keep” and twice as “watch over,” vv. 7–8). How does God "shamar" you in your times of trouble?</p><p><br /></p><p>Read Psalm 121:2</p><p>How does naming an attribute of God help during prayer? (Focus)</p><p>Which of God's attributes do you find most effective in focusing your attention on Him? (omnipotence, omnipresence, omniscience, love, forgiveness, creativity, mercy, etc)</p><p><br /></p><p>Read Psalm 121:3</p><p>When have you especially felt God's protection in your life?</p><p><br /></p><p>Read Psalm 121:4</p><p>How does combining "God is always awake and watching" with <i>protection </i>and <i>prayer</i> redefine it in your mind? (Since love is God's primary attribute, His power, presence and knowledge are reassuring not intimidating. God's attention is a blessing - not a curse!)</p><p><br /></p><p>Read Psalm 121:5</p><p>What does it mean to you that God is a safe place "right by your side"?</p><p><br /></p><p>Read Psalm 121:6</p><p>Obviously, God's people experience sunburn and exposure. In a spiritual sense, what does this verse mean to you? (You will be cared for day & night!)</p><p><br /></p><p>Read Psalm 121:7</p><p>I am reminded of the children's book: "<a href="https://youtu.be/TLJlnwR-k1k?si=BJTlZnGQq2Z6VOub" target="_blank">We're going on a bear hunt</a>." Life happens. "We can't go over it. we can't go under it. We have to go through it." What difference does it make to know God is there, going through it with you?</p><p><br /></p><p>Read Psalm 121:8</p><p>Most accidents happen within 10 kms of home because we lose focus on the tasks of travelling. Faith life tends to be the other way around. The young in faith tend to have vibrant evangelistic fervor and elderly people have a calm reassuring stalwart faith. On the spiritual journey, the middle tends to be the hardest. </p><p>Why is this? What makes some moments more risky for our faith than others? (We often lose our faith-focus during the busiest and most stressful moments.)</p><p>What advice would you give someone to help them regain and maintain their faith? (Eyes on the prize! Fix your eyes on Jesus!)</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Conclusion</b></p><p>Life is a journey without God or it is a journey with God. The choice is ours to make. The same road is travelled. Birth. Life. Death. But the company and the comfort are very different. </p><p>So what is the disciple of Jesus to expect? Eugene Peterson gives this answer on pages 40 and 41 of his book "A Long Obedience in the Same Direction."</p><p></p><blockquote><p>The Christian life is not a quiet escape to a garden where we can walk and talk uninterruptedly with our Lord; nor a fantasy trip to a heavenly city where we can compare blue ribbons and gold medals with others who have made it to the winners’ circle.… The Christian life is going to God. In going to God Christians travel the same ground that everyone else walks on, breathe the same air, drink the same water, shop in the same stores, read the same newspapers, are citizens under the same governments, pay the same prices for groceries and gasoline, fear the same dangers, are subject to the same pressures, get the same distresses, are buried in the same ground.</p><p>The difference is that each step we walk, each breath we breathe, we know we are preserved by God, we know we are accompanied by God, we know we are ruled by God; and therefore no matter what doubts we endure or what accidents we experience, the Lord will preserve us from evil, he will keep our life.</p></blockquote><p></p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-40832582905289435122024-01-21T10:54:00.009+10:302024-01-21T15:37:36.055+10:30Logos 10 on the Boox Note Air 3C<p> Bible Study has never been so easy on the eyes! And fun!!!! </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s0uIlgN0_Rs" width="320" youtube-src-id="s0uIlgN0_Rs"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you've ever wondered what it's like to use Logos Bible software on an e-ink tablet, here is the answer! Here's Android 12, Logos 10 and the Boox Note Air 3C at their Bible study best!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Buy a Boox Note Air 3C on Amazon using this link and it helps me a bit! <a href="https://amzn.to/48MGiza">https://amzn.to/48MGiza</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Or <a href="http://paypal.me/davedgren" target="_blank">send my wife and I a thank you</a> gift! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.logos.com/referral-offer?aic=HG2TB7S&utm_source=referralcandy&utm_medium=partner" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Logos Bible Software</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">if you don't have logos yet, here's $100 toward your first purchase! It helps me, too! So, thanks in anticipation!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This video was shot, edited and voiced over on a Google Pixel 8 Pro using:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Google Photos "edit" feature to cut the videos to the right length</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Google Photos "highlight Video" option to compile the video</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And LuminaFusion for the editing and voiceover</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">... all on the Pixel 8 Pro!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Grab a Pixel 8 Pro from Amazon using this link and I'll get a little kickback! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://amzn.to/3Ue3fH3">https://amzn.to/3Ue3fH3</a></div></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-75750563480204473832024-01-12T19:40:00.004+10:302024-01-12T20:10:03.814+10:30Gospel RetellingsAn Interactive Activity for 2024 Bush Camp<br /><br /><br />Instructions<br /><br />1. Collect a verse from the front.<div>2. Read your passage as a group.<br />3. Prepare a creative way to present the meaning of the verse. Either find a metaphor from nature or plan a meaningful way to act out the verse.<br />4. When asked, come forward and present/perform your creative retelling and read the verse aloud.<br /><br /><br /><br />Gospel Verses<br /><br />1. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. (1 John 4:10)<br /><br />2. God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)<br /><br />3. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name. (Acts 10:43)<br /><br />4. He gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. (Titus 2:14)<br /><br />5. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. (1 Peter 2:24)<br /><br />6. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give his life as a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45)<br /><br />7. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:4-7)<br /><br />8. Through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is justified from everything you could not be justified from by the Law of Moses. (Acts 13:38-39)<br /><br />9. God made him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in him. (2 Cor. 5:21)<br /><br />10. Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. (Heb. 9:28)</div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-59168777356055556872024-01-05T16:52:00.007+10:302024-01-05T20:37:18.721+10:30Jesus Journey - Mark 2:13-3:6<span id="docs-internal-guid-bf3606aa-7fff-18ec-3778-40559c376f5f"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p></span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="260" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1McOlFHCabI" width="462" youtube-src-id="1McOlFHCabI"></iframe></div></span><br />Jesus Journey - Part 4<br />Mark 2:13-3:6 “Jesus and Conflict”<br /><div>With Dave Edgren<br />Thank you: <a href="http://paypal.me/davedgren">paypal.me/davedgren </a><br /><br /><br />Read Mark 2:13-17<br />Tax Collectors & Sinners VS Scribes & Pharisees<br />Groups: Unholy Group VS Holy Group<br />Tax Collectors & Sinners (Unholy Group)<br />Scribes & Pharisees (Holy Group)<br /><br />We know who tax collectors are. We know who sinners are. But, it’s been a long time since we had people we call “Scribes and Pharisees” walking around us. Who were they?<br /><br />Pharisees were conservative laity. They were synagogue members like you and I but better. Pharisees were people with jobs like you and me. But, they studied the Bible as much as they possibly could and obeyed the Biblical laws as closely as they possibly could. They were legalists and perfectionists. So, we do have them around us. You probably know a few. They just don’t call themselves Pharisees anymore.<br /><br />Scribes were interpreters of the scriptures. They read the Law and the Prophets and then reinterpreted it for the time and culture in which they lived. Jeremiah is the first place in the Bible scribes are mentioned and he didn’t like them very much at all! He wrote, “How can you claim, ‘We are wise; the law of the LORD is with us’? In fact, the lying pen of scribes has produced falsehood.” (Jer 8:8)<br /><br />Sometimes the scribes came up with retellings that didn’t ring true. Sometimes their interpretations didn’t satisfy the Pharisees. In their defence, they didn’t need to believe it or put it into practice. Scribes just liked playing with new ideas based on old texts. They didn’t apply all that they wrote. They were more interested in the process of reading the text and coming up with something new. You probably know some Scribes, too!<br /><br />Mark says, literally, “The scribes WHO WERE Pharisees saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors…” So, these are the best of the best - scribes who were Pharisees. These legalistic scribes wanted answers so they could write Jesus’ reasoning down - and then, hidden behind their pens in private, argue. Do you know anyone like that? “Why are you eating that? And with them! Oh, I can’t wait to get back to FaceBook!”<br /><br />Question: The Holy Group (scribes who were Pharisees) asks, “Why eat with them? Holy goes with Holy. You are defiling yourself by your chosen crowd. Who you socialise with declares who you are.”<br /><br />Answer: Jesus answers, “A doctor ‘socialises’ with the ‘sick’ and feeds the hungry.”<br /><br />A Pharisee's food needed to be washed in a certain way. So did their hands. The food needed to be clean meat, as approved by their scriptures. If it was self-grown food, the Pharisee’s food needed to be tithed properly. Untithed food was ungodly because 10 per cent hadn’t been offered to God at the temple as an act of worship. And if it was purchased food, a Pharisee's food needed to come from proper sources - not places of idolatry. Eating with non-Pharisees was risky. You could be sinning without even knowing it! Every bite could be an act of worship to a foreign deity and thus a blasphemy to Yahweh, the one true God. Therefore, it is a sin - just to eat with outsiders. <br /><br />Jesus shows that living for others is a better way than living for yourself. Identity comes from internal places not external appearances. Elsewhere, He said, “What goes in the mouth does not make a man unclean, but what comes out of the mouth.” Like saying, “I can’t eat with you because you are a sinner!”<br /><br />Jesus called the oppressed to come out from under the thumb of their oppressors. Mathew was working for Rome as a tax collector. Collecting the fees of oppression from the hands of his own people. He was despised by both Jews and Romans.<br /><br />Jesus came to “seek and save the lost”. He loved all because God is love. Jesus became ‘one with us’ - joining the oppressed in recreation, eating and conversation. He also healed them freely.<br /><br />Matthew (Levi) was not a lonely friendless reject. Look around the room. Look at the many faces at the table. Yes, Jesus and his disciples are there. They are new. But also seated at the table are ‘many tax collectors’ - Matthew’s friends and workmates. They came to eat with Matthew and his new friends. <br /><br />Jesus said, “I didn’t come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Jesus calls his followers ‘sinners’! Evidently, this is no barrier for Jesus or else he would have called them ‘people called away from sin’ or ‘needy people.’ Instead, he just calls them, ‘sinners.’ Jesus is comfortable just calling us ‘sinners”. He calls us as we are. “Follow me!” He says, “As you are!”<br /><br />Jesus didn’t come for seekers. He came for tweakers. Jesus came to save those lost in sin, not those lost in religion. For the religious to access what Jesus brought - no matter how righteous they believe they are - first they must realise they are lost. Lost without Jesus. Just like the rest of us!<br /><br />Jesus said, “The healthy will never call for a doctor.” Even if they are dead and rotting on the inside. “Only the sick need a doctor.”<br /><br />And so, Jesus stands at the door and knocks. <br /><br />Song:<br /> The Saviour is waiting to enter your heart<br /> Why don’t you let Him come in?<br /><br />The Expositors Bible Commentary says:<br />“It would be true to say that this word of Jesus strikes the key note of the Gospel. The new thing in Christianity is not the doctrine that God saves Sinners. No Jew would have denied that. It is the assertion that God loves and saves them as sinners.” <br /><br />This does not imply the righteous do not need Jesus. Rather, like the sick call for a doctor, only those who recognise they are sinners can receive a Savior. The scribes and the Pharisees need a Savior, too. Just as pride goeth before a fall, so self-inflated righteousness is a distinctly difficult place from which to admit one's own sinfulness. Humble yourself before God and He WILL lift you up. That’s why Jesus came! <br /><br /><br /><br />Read: Mark 2:18-22<br />Jesus’ first parables - New wine, patching old clothes<br /><br />Scribes VS Savior<br />Scribes took the Old Testament and changed it to save it.<br />Jesus took sinners and saved them - just as they were.<br /><br />Mark 2:8 “People came and asked Him” - To the common people, Jesus looked like a religious leader. He taught like a Rabbi. But he was different. Who was he? Was he a prophet like John the Baptiser? Was he a “good Jew” like a Pharisee? Who was Jesus? People like you and me, wanted to know. If he was like John or like the religious leaders, why didn’t his disciples fast like the Jews?<br /><br />Torah said to Fast one day a year - on the day of Atonement. (Leviticus 23:27)<br />Pharisees fasted twice a week! Monday and Thursday.<br />John the Baptist's disciples were likely fasting in mourning for John’s incarceration.<br /><br />Jesus’ disciples were not fasting at all. They were eating whenever and wherever with whomever they wished.<br /><br />“Why?” The people ask, “Why don’t your disciples fast?”<br /><br />In his answer, Jesus foreshadows the cross for the first time in the book of Mark. He’s headed somewhere. “The time will come” (Mark 2:20)...<br /><br />Jesus said the disciples ate freely because their bridegroom was with them. They will fast, when they are suffering. “When the groom will be taken away from them” (Mark 2:20) “Then they will fast.”<br /><br />Can you feel the tightening of His heartstrings? I can. Jesus can see the day and it isn’t today. Not. Yet.<br /><br />Then Jesus gives a couple of parables about Himself and His teaching. (Mark 2:21-22)<br /><br />Jesus and His teaching were not a patch to be applied to Jewish tradition. Like the scribes would do with their pens. Jesus’ way would tear away from tradition.<br /><br />Jesus and His teaching could not be stored in the wineskins of legalism. Like the Pharisees believed the Messiah would. Jesus' way would burst the seams of self-righteousness.<br /><br />Neither legalism nor reinterpretation is fitting for the work Jesus came to do. In this short montage and the next section, Mark lists the things that could not contain Jesus: Fasting, eating with sinners, eating untithed, unwashed and unclean food, with unclean hands. Jesus pulls the rug from under much of their law-keeping and Torah abuse. So far in Mark: Demons, healing, diet, fasting, tithing, purity, sabbath - Jesus shouts, “NEW WINE IS PUT IN NEW WINESKINS!”<br /><br />Why didn’t His disciples fast? Jesus answers, “I didn’t come to patch up the Torah like the scribes and Pharisees or to patch your spiritual garments like John’s baptism. <br /><br />Jesus: "Fasting? Ridiculous! I didn’t come to introduce a new diet fad. I came to get this party started!"<div><br /><br />Read Mark 2:23-3:6<br />Sabbath: Religion VS Theology<br /><br />Key point: Mark 2:27-28<br />Sabbath was made for man (not the other way round)<br /><br />In the Talmud, Rabbi Yonatan ben-Yosef said: ‘For it [Shabbat] is holy unto you’ (Exodus 31:14). That is, it is committed into your hands, not you into its hands!” (Yoma 85b) <br /><br />A similar passage appears in the Mekhilta, Shabbata I:1, where the saying is attributed to Rabbi Shim‛on Ben-Menasya: “It may be, therefore, that Yeshua’s comment in v. 28, that the Son of Man is Lord of Shabbat, does not refer only to himself but to everyone, since Hebrew ben-adam (literally, “son of man”) can mean simply “man, person,” with no Messianic overtone: “people control Shabbat” and not the other way round.”<br /><br /><br />Jesus suggests: King David did it, his men did it, I do it, my men do it. You do it, too. ADMIT IT!<br /><br />The Sabbath is yours to define. I heal on Sabbath because I can. What do you do on Sabbath for the good of others - because you can? Because that is how you glorify God on Sabbath!<br /><br /><br />Jesus clearly puts Sabbath in the Religion Department not the Theology Department.<br />- RC Sproul story: Religion VS Thelogy<br /><a href="https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts/ultimately-with-rc-sproul/what-is-the-difference-between-theology-and-religion">https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts/ultimately-with-rc-sproul/what-is-the-difference-between-theology-and-religion</a><br /><br /><br />In this passage, Jesus clearly shows the Sabbath is a ‘son of man’ topic. It’s religion.<br />How you keep the Sabbath defines you, not God.<br />God does what God does - Sabbath or not!<br />What you do on Sabbath is between you and God.<br /><br />This answer Got Jesus killed. <br /><br />Jesus’ interpretation and illustration of what he meant by: “the Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath” made the Pharisees so angry they began plotting to kill Jesus.<br /><br />When you tell legalists, “Your religion is bad theology” - They don’t like it. And they may try to kill you! Starting with your reputation.<br /><br /><br />Conclusion<br /><br />Reflecting on our study today: How does Jesus deal with conflict?<br /><br />Jesus shows them God by siding with sinners, eating with everyone, healing the sick and suffering and telling stories at every step of the journey!<br /><br />Go and do likewise! It might get you killed, but you will never be bored!<br /><br />Let’s pray.<br /><span><br /> </span></div></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-65368354277619018752023-12-23T12:53:00.007+10:302023-12-24T10:30:36.736+10:30The Face of God - Christmas Service<p> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TTPW7a33vd0?si=f0uoKGK17LuZdwUR" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Drama starts at 10:25</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Christmas program - THE FACE OF GOD</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Script by David Edgren and Josh Steed</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Setup: Cross centre-stage at back. Wooden bench on left side. Manger on right side.</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 1: The Cross </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Parent and Child</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Child sitting on bench, looking at cross. Parent walks in.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “I don’t understand, if Jesus was truly the Messiah, why did he have to die? Has God turned his face from us?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: "No, my child, God has not turned away. He is always with us, even in our darkest moments."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “But why did Jesus have to die on the cross?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: "Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins. You see, sin separates us from God. Because God is holy and perfect, He cannot be in the presence of sin."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “So, Jesus died to bring us closer to God?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: "Exactly. Jesus took all of our sins upon Himself and died in our place. He did this out of love for us."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “But, why couldn’t God just forgive our sins without Jesus having to die?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: "God is not only loving, but He is also just. A price had to be paid for our sins. Jesus paid that price on our behalf."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “So, God sent His Son to die for us because He loves us?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: "Yes, my dear. God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “Wow, that’s a lot of love. But, I still don’t understand why Jesus had to die.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: "Jesus' death on the cross was the ultimate sacrifice. It was the only way to completely pay the price for all the sins of humanity. It was through His death and resurrection that we can have a full relationship with God."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “So, God hasn’t turned His face from us?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: "No, my child. In fact, it is the exact opposite. God turned His face towards us by sending His Son to die for us. He made a way for us to be with Him forever."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “I think I understand now? Jesus died so we could see the face of God?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: "Yes, my child. Let me explain. Do you remember the story of Adam and Eve and the creation, when they used to speak with God face to face in the Garden of Eden?</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Parent and child look out to see Adam and Eve walking into the church from the rear.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(End of Scene 1)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Drama 2:10 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>—--</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 2: Garden of Eden</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: God, Adam, and Eve</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Adam, and Eve are walking in the garden - enter church from rear)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Children in the audience hold up flowers (distributed before service).</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Adam: "Look at these flowers, Eve. Have you ever seen such vibrant colours?"</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Eve: "And the animals, Adam. They're so gentle and friendly."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(God enters from stage door)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: "Adam, Eve, behold the beauty of this world that I have created for you. Look around you, see the lush green trees, the vibrant flowers, the clear blue sky. Every creature, every plant, every stone, I have made so you can love and care for them."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Adam: "It's wonderful, God. We are grateful for your blessings."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Eve: "Yes, God. It's more beautiful than anything we could have ever imagined."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: "I am pleased that you appreciate my creation. I have given you dominion over all these things. You are free to eat from all the trees in the garden, except for one."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Adam: "What do you mean? Why would there be a tree we cannot enjoy?"</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: "Because choices have consequences. Every choice leads to something new. The knowledge of good and evil seems like something to desire. But, it is not. For the day you sample its fruit, death comes into the world. Everything will change. You will no longer walk with me like we are now and you won’t see me face to face. "</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Eve: “So which tree is this Tree that brings the Knowledge of Good and Evil?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(God points to the cross)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Eve: “But, that tree is so beautiful!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: “To your eyes, perhaps. But to me, it is heartbreak. Please… (God’s voice breaks, teary) Please stay away from that tree - for me and for you!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Eve: "We understand, God. We will not eat from that tree."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: "I am glad you understand. Remember, my children, obedience is better than sacrifice. I have given you everything you could ever need. Let your hearts be filled with joy and love."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Adam: "We will remember, God. We will obey.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Eve: “We are so grateful for your blessings."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: "That's good, my children. Enjoy the beauty of this garden. Live in harmony with each other and with nature. Remember, I am always with you."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Adam and Eve: "Thank you.” </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Adam: “God, we will honour your command."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(God exits rear of church, Adam and Eve continue to explore the garden)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Eve: "Adam, let's promise to each other that we will never eat from that tree. We have so much here, we don't need that one thing."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Adam: "You're right, Eve. We have everything we could ever want right here. Let's enjoy this paradise God has given us."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>SONG: What a Beautiful Name (CCLI #: 7068424)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Eve leads first verse.</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Worship Leader asks the church to stand and sing.</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Adam and Eve exit)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(End of Scene 2)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Drama 2:50 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Song 4:15 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>—-</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 3a: Jacob and Esau</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Parent and Child</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Parent and child sitting on bench.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: “Sadly, Adam and Eve didn’t keep their promise. They ate the fruit from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (parent points to tree) and everything changed.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “That must’ve been terrible for Adam and Eve.” </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: “Yes. And for God too.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “Could you imagine being able to walk with God, hearing His voice, and seeing Him face to face, and then losing it? Wow.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: “God did continue to speak with His people, like Noah when God told him to build an ark. Could you imagine building a floating zoo unless God actually spoke to you?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “No, probably not” (child gently laughs)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: “But not only that, sometimes the face of God could still be seen, but just in different ways. Take the story of Jacob and Esau for example, after Jacob tricked their father into giving him his brother Esau’s blessing.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 3b: Jacob and Esau</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Jacob, Esau, Joseph and family members </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Jacob is pacing nervously. Esau enters.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Jacob: “Esau, my brother, it’s been so long since we last met. I’ve missed you greatly.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Esau: "Jacob, my brother, I too have missed you. Our past is behind us now."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Jacob: "I’ve been so worried about this meeting. I was afraid you would kill me for my foolishness all those years ago! The waves of animals I’ve been sending are gifts to you. I was hoping to appease you so you wouldn’t attack me with your army of 400 men."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Esau: "Jacob, I forgave you long ago. We were young and foolish then. It's time to let go of the past."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Jacob: "I’m relieved to hear that, Esau. I was so scared you'd reject my gifts and hold on to your anger."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Esau: "Jacob, you are my brother. Nothing can change that. I do not need your gifts to forgive you."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Jacob: "Please, Esau, if I have found favour in your sight, then accept my gifts. For I have seen your face, and it is like seeing the face of God, since you have forgiven me!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Esau: "Jacob, your words touch me deeply. I will accept your gifts not because I need them, but because they come from your heart."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Jacob’s family walks up behind him. Or use the audience as family!)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Esau: “Who are all these people?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Jacob: “This is my family and our servants.” </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Little boy Joseph walks up to Jacob who places his hand on the boys head, then shoulder.) </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Jacob: “Meet Joseph, my 11th and youngest - so far!” (looks down at boy) “Joseph, greet your uncle Esau.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Joseph steps forward and leans his head toward Esau. Esau places his hand on Joseph’s head.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Esau: “Greetings, Joseph! You certainly are your father’s son!” </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Joseph steps back to Jacob’s side.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Esau: “Your family is my family, brother. You are welcome here!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Jacob: "Thank you, Esau. Your forgiveness means more to me than you'll ever know."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Esau: "Let's forget the past, Jacob. We walk into the future as brothers."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Jacob and Esau walk off, arm in arm. The family trails after them.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(End of Scene 3)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Drama 3:00 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>—-</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 4a: Moses and God</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Parent and Child</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Parent and child sitting on bench.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “Wow that’s pretty cool. Jacob recognised God’s face when he saw forgiveness in the face of his own brother.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: “Yes, God’s forgiveness always has a way of shining through.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “Still, I think I would prefer to be able to see God face to face.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: “Well you wouldn’t be the first person to have said that to God!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 4b: Moses and God</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Moses, God (voiceover)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Moses is on the top of Mount Sinai, looking out over the desert.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: "Lord, we have been journeying in this wilderness for years. The people are weary and their faith is wavering. They need a sign of your presence."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: "Moses, my faithful servant, you have led my people out of Egypt and through the desert. I have never left you. I have guided you every step of the way."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: "Yes, Lord, you have guided us. But the people need more. They need to feel your presence, to know you are with us."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: “Moses, I make my presence known every day through the leadership of you and your brother Aaron.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: “Yes, Lord. It’s just, well… I’ll be honest. I feel as if I do not know you.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: “Know me? How can you not know me? I’ve been with you and speaking to you for years!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: “Well, I know Aaron as my brother and can remember his face, even now, while I’m away from him. And Miriam, my sister, I can remember her face. In truth, I can still remember my mother’s face from decades ago! But your face, Yahweh, I do not know.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: “You want to see my face? Do you know what you are asking?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: “Yes, Lord. As a friend knows the face of a friend, I want to know you. Please show me your face!” </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: "I will reveal my glory to you, Moses. But, no man can see my face and live."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: "I understand, Lord. I am humbled and grateful for this privilege."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: “I will place you in a cleft of rock and cover you with my hand. Then I will pass by. As I leave, I will lift my hand and you will see my back.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: “I am ready, Lord.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(A storm-like wind blows. God's presence descends on the mountain, enveloping Moses in a bright light. Moses covers his own face.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: (shouting in the wind) "Moses, I am the great 'I AM'. I am the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I have heard the cries of my people and I am with you."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(The wind quiets. Moses' hands slowly drop from his face.) </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: "Lord, your presence is overwhelming. I felt your power and your glory. I still feel it!"</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: "All my goodness passed before you, Moses. I proclaimed my name: 'Yahweh.'”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: “It was like a mighty wind!” </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: “Moses, I will show mercy to whom I will show mercy and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: "Your mercy and compassion are greater than anything we could ever imagine, Lord. I will share your words with the people."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>God: "Go now, Moses. Continue to lead my people. Remember, I am with you always."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Moses: "Yes Lord, I will serve you forever.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Moses walks out the rear of the church humming to himself:)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>"Oh, Lord, You're beautiful</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Your face is all I seek</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>For when Your eyes are on this child</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Your grace abounds to me."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(End of Scene 4)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>SONG: Oh Lord You’re Beautiful (CCLI #: 14514)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Worship Leader asks the church to remain seated and sing.</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Drama 4:00 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Song 4:00 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>—---</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 5a: The Shepherds</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Parent and Child</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Parent and child sitting on bench.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “Well I suppose if Moses was okay with not seeing the face of God, then I probably can be okay with it too.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: “Yes, but remember things changed when Jesus arrived!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 5b: The Shepherds</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Angel of God, Angel Choir, 4x Shepherds, lots of sheep!</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Kids are given sheep ears upon entering church. Shepherds to be dispersed throughout the congregation prior to the scene commencing.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Shepherds stand up amongst the congregation, near the rear of the church, possibly standing on pew if required for extra height, shouting to distract the congregation while angels take their place on the right of stage.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 1: “Ezra?! Isaac?! Can you see any sheep?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 2: “Hey Joel, there are some sheep over here.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 1: “Great work Nathaniel, try to round them up over there.” (points to front of stage)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Shepherd round up sheep to front of stage, sheep are encouraged by parent helper)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 2: “Here sheepy sheepy sheepy. Here sheepy sheepy sheepy.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: “There are more sheep here too. These ones appear to be hiding amongst some scarecrows. Wow, these scarecrows look pretty lifelike too” (shepherd examines a parent up close).</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 4: “There’s some big sheep too, this one’s bigger than you Ezra!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 1: “C’mon boyz, we haven’t got all night. I want some sleep at some stage.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 2: “Well we would all still be sleeping if it wasn’t for that really loud noise frightening all the sheep. What do you think it was?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 1: “It was probably just thunder.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 4: “Maybe it was a very sick lion?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: (Says mysteriously) “Or maybe it was a tear in the space-time continuum and a superhero from another dimension has just entered into our world.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Other shepherds laugh)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 1: “Isaac, I think you’ve been reading too many B.C. comics!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Suspenseful sound. Angel appears)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Angel: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 1: “The town of David, that’s Bethlehem. Quick, leave the sheep, let’s go boys!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Shepherds point to sheep, shrug their shoulders and leave them, leaving through the rear of the church)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>SONG: Joy to the World / Joyful Joyful (CCLI #: 7128618)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Angel Leader asks the church to stand and sing. Angels lead singing enthusiastically.</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>SONG: Angels We Have Heard on High</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Drama 2:10 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Song 4:30 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Song 3:30 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>—---</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 6a: Birth of Jesus</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Mary, Joseph, Jesus, shepherds, wise men</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Shepherds enter from rear of church talking loudly and excitedly, to distract the congregation while Mary, Joseph and Jesus take their place on left of stage.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 4: “Are we there yet?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 1: “Yes I think so Ezra. I think it’s just over there. See where all those sheep are?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 2: “Seriously, what kind of lazy shepherd would leave so many sheep unattended?” (said with a guilty look)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: “Nah, I think they must be the Saviour’s sheep (starts nodding head). </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Shepherds start walking down the middle aisle of the church, pumping up the church).</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: “Our Saviour’s got heaps of lambs.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherds 1, 2, 4: “Our Saviour’s got heaps of lambs.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: “And they were white as snow”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherds 1, 2, 4: “And they were white as snow”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: “And everywhere our Saviour went”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherds 1, 2, 4: “And everywhere our Saviour went”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: “The lambs were sure to go”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherds 1, 2, 4: “The lambs were sure to go”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: “Hallelujah”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherds 1, 2, 4: “Hey”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: “Hallelujah”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherds 1, 2, 4: “Ho”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 3: “Hallelujah”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherds 1, 2, 4: “Aha aha aha”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Mary is holding baby Jesus, Joseph standing by her side.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Joseph: “Welcome strangers. That was quite the entrance. Can we help you?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 1: "Yes we were in the fields looking after our sheep, and an Angel appeared and told us where to find you."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 2: "The angels sang of joy and peace. They announced the birth of the Saviour."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Joseph: "Welcome, shepherds. Your journey has been difficult in the dark, but you are here, come now into the light. Come, see the child."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(The shepherds approach Mary and baby Jesus.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Shepherd 1: "He is beautiful. Truly, a child of God." </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Other shepherds murmur agreement, looking at the child)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(The wise men enter.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Wise Man 1: "Greetings oh blessed ones. We are scholars from the far East and we have followed the bright star to this humble place."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Wise Man 2: "We bring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh for the newborn King."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Joseph: "Thank you, scholars. Your gifts are very generous."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Mary: "Welcome, all. This child, my son, His name is Jesus."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Wise Man 1: "We have read the prophecies. We know this child is very special."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Wise Man 2: "He will be a great king, one who will bring peace, the Saviour of the world."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(wisemen turn to the audience)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Wise Man 1: “Please join with us and sing”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>SONG: Away in a Manger / We Sing Hallelujah (CCLI #: 7161653)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Drama 2:00 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Song 5:50 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>—---</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 6b: Birth of Jesus</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Mary, Joseph, Jesus, shepherds, wise men</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Joseph: "Indeed, this is a night of great celebration. The Messiah that our people have longed for is finally born!"</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Mary: "Yes, Joseph. He is the light of the world and through him, all shall know God's love and mercy. To think that as I stare into His beautiful little face, that I’m staring into the face of God."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Joseph: "Let us give thanks for this blessed night. For the birth of Jesus, the Savior of the world."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Mary: "Yes, let us give thanks. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(All bow their heads in prayer.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Drama 0:40 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Scene 7: The Cross </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Characters: Parent and Child</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Parent and Child sit on bench, looking at the cross.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “That is so awesome. God’s people had been longing to look upon the face of God again for so long, and then Mary is there, holding baby Jesus, staring into the face of God!”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: “Yes, a face of forgiveness.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “Of course. Forgiveness, just like what Jacob saw in Esau’s face. So, it's only through the forgiveness of the cross that we see the true face of God?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: (Nods, smiling gently) “Yes, my child. You remember well. The cross shows us God's great love for us. He sent His only Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins. And through that sacrifice, we can see the face of God – a face of love, mercy, and forgiveness.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: (Pauses, thinking) "But, the cross... It looks so painful. How can something so painful show God's love?"</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: (Nods, understanding the child's confusion) "Indeed, the cross is a symbol of suffering. But it's also a symbol of love. It's through the greatest pain that the greatest love is shown. Jesus suffered and died on the cross so that we could be forgiven of our sins and have eternal life with God. That's how much God loves us."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: (Nods slowly, understanding dawning) "So, the cross is about love. It's about God's love for us."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: “Yes, my dear. But remember, it doesn’t end there… We are to be the body of Christ in the world, His hands and feet. We should always ask, will people see the face of God when they see me today?”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: (Pauses, thinking deeply) "You mean... we should show God's love to others? Like how Jesus showed His love for us on the cross?"</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: (Smiles, nodding) "Exactly, my child. We are called to reflect God's love and forgiveness to the world. That's how they see the face of God. When we show kindness, when we forgive, when we help others... we are showing them God's love."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: "I think I understand now. We reflect God's love to people and they see the face of God. And that's how we can be like Jesus."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Parent: </b><b>"Exactly, my child. And remember, it's not always easy. But God will always be with us, helping us, guiding us, loving us."</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Child: “As we love others.”</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>(Child walks over to baby Jesus.)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>SONG: Face of God / What A Beautiful Name (CCLI #: 7121311)</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Drama 2:30 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Song 7:15 mins</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>—---</b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Closing Prayer </b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>The Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the Lord look on you with favour and give you peace.</b></p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-56406094402730021372023-12-06T09:30:00.008+10:302023-12-06T09:30:46.268+10:30Seen at Road to Bethlehem<p>Two stories from the Chaplaincy tent at Road to Bethlehem 2023 at Edinburgh College in Lilydale, Victoria, Australia.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DBR32uZbdR4" width="480" youtube-src-id="DBR32uZbdR4"></iframe></div><br /><p></p>Dave Edgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00495179522905330405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-76689061877256885492023-12-02T20:46:00.006+10:302023-12-03T13:19:08.905+10:30Jesus Journey - Mark 1:21-2:12<p> Part 3 of our study of the book of Mark. <br />(Sorry about the sound on this one. It really failed! Turn on subtitles. It gets it right.) </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9bbzJdiyoIs" width="480" youtube-src-id="9bbzJdiyoIs"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Mark 1:21-2:12 (CSB)</p><p>21 They went into Capernaum, and right away he entered the synagogue on the Sabbath and began to teach. 22 They were astonished at his teaching because he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not like the scribes.</p><p>23 Just then a man with an unclean spirit was in their synagogue. He cried out, 24 “What do you have to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”</p><p>25 Jesus rebuked him saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” 26 And the unclean spirit threw him into convulsions, shouted with a loud voice, and came out of him.</p><p>27 They were all amazed, and so they began to ask each other, “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” 28 At once the news about him spread throughout the entire vicinity of Galilee.</p><p><br /></p><p>Healings at Capernaum</p><p>29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went into Simon and Andrew’s house with James and John. 30 Simon’s mother-in-law was lying in bed with a fever, and they told him about her at once. 31 So he went to her, took her by the hand, and raised her up. The fever left her, and she began to serve them.</p><p>32 When evening came, after the sun had set, they brought to him all those who were sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town was assembled at the door, 34 and he healed many who were sick with various diseases and drove out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him.</p><p><br /></p><p>Preaching in Galilee</p><p>35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he got up, went out, and made his way to a deserted place; and there he was praying. 36 Simon and his companions searched for him, 37 and when they found him they said, “Everyone is looking for you.”</p><p>38 And he said to them, “Let’s go on to the neighboring villages so that I may preach there too. This is why I have come.”</p><p><br /></p><p>A Man Cleansed</p><p>39 He went into all of Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons. 40 Then a man with leprosy came to him and, on his knees, begged him, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.” 41 Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched him. “I am willing,” he told him. “Be made clean.” 42 Immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. 43 Then he sternly warned him and sent him away at once, 44 telling him, “See that you say nothing to anyone; but go and show yourself to the priest, and offer what Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.” 45 Yet he went out and began to proclaim it widely and to spread the news, with the result that Jesus could no longer enter a town openly. But he was out in deserted places, and they came to him from everywhere.</p><p><b>Chapter 2 </b></p><p>1 When he entered Capernaum again after some days, it was reported that he was at home. 2 So many people gathered together that there was no more room, not even in the doorway, and he was speaking the word to them. 3 They came to him bringing a paralytic, carried by four of them. 4 Since they were not able to bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and after digging through it, they lowered the mat on which the paralytic was lying. 5 Seeing their faith, Jesus told the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”</p><p>6 But some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts: 7 “Why does he speak like this? He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?”</p><p>8 Right away Jesus perceived in his spirit that they were thinking like this within themselves and said to them, “Why are you thinking these things in your hearts? 9 Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat, and walk’? 10 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he told the paralytic— 11 “I tell you: get up, take your mat, and go home.”</p><p>12 Immediately he got up, took the mat, and went out in front of everyone. As a result, they were all astounded and gave glory to God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!”</p>Dave Edgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00495179522905330405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-4204549920297982122023-12-02T20:37:00.004+10:302023-12-03T13:15:22.049+10:30The Jesus Journey - Mark 1:14-20<p> Part 2 of our study of the book of Mark.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hzW4aEGJBtQ" width="480" youtube-src-id="hzW4aEGJBtQ"></iframe></div><br /><p>Mark 1:14-20 (CSB)</p><p>14 After John was arrested, Jesus went to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God: 15 “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”</p><p>16 As he passed alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew, Simon’s brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. 17 “Follow me,” Jesus told them, “and I will make you fish for people.” 18 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 19 Going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat putting their nets in order. 20 Immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.</p>Dave Edgrenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00495179522905330405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-88328111505778229732023-12-02T20:34:00.001+10:302023-12-03T13:16:48.365+10:30The Jesus Journey - Mark 1:1-13<p> Part 1 of our study on the book of Mark.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AZ9YZ9PNdl0" width="480" youtube-src-id="AZ9YZ9PNdl0"></iframe></div><br /><p>Mark 1:1-13 (CSB)</p><p>1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 2 As it is written in Isaiah the prophet:</p><p>See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you;</p><p>he will prepare your way.</p><p>3 A voice of one crying out in the wilderness:</p><p>Prepare the way for the Lord;</p><p>make his paths straight!</p><p>4 John came baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 5 The whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and they were baptized by him in the Jordan River, confessing their sins. 6 John wore a camel-hair garment with a leather belt around his waist and ate locusts and wild honey.</p><p>7 He proclaimed, “One who is more powerful than I am is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the strap of his sandals. 8 I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”</p><p>9 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. 10 As soon as he came up out of the water, he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. 11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well-pleased.”</p><p>12 Immediately the Spirit drove him into the wilderness. 13 He was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and the angels were serving him.</p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-33416026199398561902023-11-25T08:12:00.005+10:302024-01-05T21:06:23.211+10:30Sabbath School Discussion Guide - 25 Nov 2023<p> <span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #fcfcfc; font-size: 17.5pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;">God's Mission, My Mission</span></p><p><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #fcfcfc; font-size: 17.5pt; font-weight: 700; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b style="background-color: #fff9ee; color: #222222; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; white-space-collapse: collapse;">Thank you: </b><a href="http://paypal.me/davedgren" style="background-color: #fff9ee; color: #993300; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-line: none; white-space-collapse: collapse;">paypal.me/davedgren</a></span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-f6dafa96-7fff-4984-5340-8ea631c9ec7a"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="https://sabbath-school.adventech.io/en/2023-04/08/01" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: #fcfcfc; color: #1155cc; font-size: 17.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Mission to the Needy</span></a></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Opening Question:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We’ve all experienced physical healing. Cuts. Breaks. Colds. COVID. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Which personal time of healing in your life stands out? Why?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Before reading the passage below, ask 2 people to summarize the passage afterwards. </span></p><div><br /></div><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Passage: Mark 1:21-2:12</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Read the entire Passage out loud. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Q. Ask for the summaries before any discussion.</p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. What did the summaries focus on? Why?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. What new or surprising thought came to mind while reading this passage?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Me: Peter’s favourite healing story - Mark 1:31</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. What questions does this passage bring up for you?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Which part of this passage brought up strong feelings for you? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Why do you think it had this impact on you?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Me: Mark 1:32 - Imagine everyone going home after the healings at ‘church’. “We’ve gotta take Mama to Jesus.” “We’ve gotta take little Josiah to Jesus!” Then, they waited. All afternoon. Begging the sun to go down faster. As they watched the sun finally set, they emerged from their houses - dozens of them with sick family members. Quickly, they gathered at the door of Peter’s house. And Jesus healed them, one by one. Even though it was dark, the rest of the town came to watch!
Here’s the sad part: The Sabbath had become a stumbling block in the lives of the Jewish people. The “teachers of the Law” had turned the Sabbath, which was meant to be God’s day of healing and re-creation, into a wedge between God and humanity - one that kept people from bringing their sick to Jesus. No wonder Jesus did so much healing on the Sabbath! He was resetting the purpose of the Sabbath! </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. In this passage, in what different ways does Jesus help the needy?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. </span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Review Mark 1:33, Mark 1:45, Mark 2:2
</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> What is Mark suggesting will happen when you are meeting the needs of people? </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Interspersed in this healing montage, Mark demonstrates that the religious leaders and system are hindering rather than helping people. Why would Mark do this? (See Mark 1:22, 32, 43-44; Mark 2:6-8) </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Mark intentionally sandwiched healing stories within the calling of disciples. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> (See the surrounding stories of Mark 1:16-20 and Mark 2:13-14).</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Why would Mark teach Jesus' style of disciple-making this way? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> What is Mark saying about the ministry of Jesus?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> What is Mark saying about disciple-making in the church?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Does Mark 1:35-36 fit in the middle of this healing story-set? Why?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> How does this verse encourage you in your discipleship?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. In Mark’s day, how did sickness and demons correlate? (Mark 1:32-34)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> What about today? How are things different? Why?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> The incarnated Jesus spoke into Mark’s world as a local!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> “All things to all people. So that by all means, He might reach many.” </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Where might Jesus focus His healing ministry today? </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> (Mental Health? Community/family? Cancer?)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> “WWJD” - wrong question. He’s in me. What will I do?</span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> “WWJHMD” - What would Jesus have me do?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. How does this passage increase your love for Jesus and other people? </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. Is there a particular person you feel impressed to share part of today’s study with? Who? Why them?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Closing Prayer</span></p><div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-26052074383113061112023-11-19T14:23:00.010+10:302023-12-04T07:36:26.252+10:30Teaching The Second Coming<p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-e4d74aba-7fff-4003-917b-a3018cf63ff5" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This morning while attending a Uniting Church with a client, the topic was "The Second Coming." During the sermon, the minister said, "You all know Dave because he joins us every second Sunday. Dave has a Seventh-day Adventist background. Seventh-day Adventists have the second coming right in their name - so they have a lot to say about it, I'm guessing." Then, looking up at me, he said, "Dave, If you'd like right of reply, I'd love to have you unpack the passage I'm struggling with in this sermon. I'll do my best and you can do the rest. If you are willing, at the time."</span></p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-e4d74aba-7fff-4003-917b-a3018cf63ff5" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-e4d74aba-7fff-4003-917b-a3018cf63ff5" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14.6667px; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It humbled me to realise that other Christians view Adventists as specialists on "Sabbath" and "Second Coming". They do not despise or judge us but appreciate our investment in these deeply biblical topics.</span></p><p dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-e4d74aba-7fff-4003-917b-a3018cf63ff5" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The minister powered into unpacking Matthew 25:14-30. </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">When he got to the end of his sermon, he said, "Dave, do you have something to say to help us with this passage? Only if you are comfortable."</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The verse "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15) went through my mind... And I did.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">During his sermon, I dug into the passage and the surrounding context. (Have a carefully read of Matthew 25:1-30 before going any further) I was looking for a positive way to reveal Jesus and his end-time mission for disciples.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Enjoy this lovely Uniting Church service. My bit starts at 53 mins... </span></p><blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fFCETlbG3oo" width="480" youtube-src-id="fFCETlbG3oo"></iframe></div></blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">First, we need to ask, “What is the context of this story.” At the beginning of the passage, it says, “Again, it will be like a man” .... What is the “it” in the “it will be like”? Reach back to the previous passage and Jesus says, “At that time, the Kingdom of Heaven will be like”. So, the topic in question is the Kingdom of Heaven. That’s the starting point. The finish of the story is “celebration" with God or “the place of weeping and gnashing of teeth.” So, this is a story about the Kingdom of Heaven and how it relates to those entrusted with its wealth.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Q. What is the primary focus of the Kingdom of Heaven?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">A. Jesus.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The only people Jesus ever gut-punched were the religious leaders who misrepresented God to the people. These were the light on a hill people, Jerusalem’s leaders. They had taken the Kingdom of God and buried all of its glory and all of its truth under a mountain of laws and self-righteousness. Jesus had words with these leaders. Strong words. And often. The Kingdom of God was meant for everyone and Israel was meant to be the servant that spread that story. Instead, they buried it.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In the middle of Jesus’ ministry on Earth, we have the story of Jesus sending out the 72 to prepare for His arrival in unsuspecting towns. Jesus advised his disciples to enter a town and say, “The Kingdom of Heaven is Near.” Jesus also said, “If they invite you into their homes, go in. Lodge there. Eat there. And tell them I am coming soon and to be ready for my arrival.” Then he turned the tables, “If nobody in that town welcomes you, even after you declare the Kingdom of Heaven is near, shake the dust off your sandals and leave town. It will be better for that town at the end than for Sodom and Gomorrah.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This story is a picture of God shaking the dust off his sandals. The wealthy landowner ousting the servants who didn’t make use of what they’d been given is Jesus’ way of saying to the religious leaders, “You know that rubbish tip outside the city? The one that just keeps burning and burning. The one where the rubbish gets dumped from Jerusalem? That’s where rubbish goes. Yeah, you don’t want to go there.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Yes, it’s harsh. But, it is not a parable about you. It is not a parable about your family members who aren’t using their spiritual gifts. It's Jesus talking to the religious leaders. It is about those entrusted with the nearness of the Kingdom of Heaven who choose to ignore it rather than ignite it.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">When Jesus died on the cross, the temple curtain tore from top to bottom and God got out of the box! The message about God, His love, and the nearness of the Kingdom of Heaven is no longer entrusted to one select group of people. God left that idea in the dust. The Holy Spirit now reaches out to every heart drawing all people toward God’s Kingdom. And once you welcome it in, you are the storytellers. You are the message bearers. You are the light on a hill. So shine! </span></p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-12783775187208230302023-11-18T09:10:00.004+10:302023-11-18T09:11:32.317+10:30Sabbath - The Best Day Ever (Children's Story)<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4WZQHFEiuyg" width="427" youtube-src-id="4WZQHFEiuyg"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10025521.post-85859395150064575272023-11-17T12:14:00.005+10:302023-11-17T12:15:14.725+10:30Fluffy's Christmas Gift - by Dr Charles Page<p>I received an email request yesterday that made me happy. The author of this Children's Christmas book asked me to read and record it on my YouTube Channel. 🙂 What fun to participate with others in making the world a better place!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="291" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g0HIb05vJ9E" width="486" youtube-src-id="g0HIb05vJ9E"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div>Davehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06861843050273076899noreply@blogger.com0