For July 25, 2010
One of the things we may hope for in our spiritual lives is the wisdom to make good choices. This is another way to look at last week’s examination of discernment. We will start with some words from the writer of Ephesians:
Ephesians 1:17-19 I ask—ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength!
1. How would you describe wisdom, how do you know it when you see it? Is there a difference between wisdom and knowledge? Are the two interconnected? What are some typical ways in which we increase both of them in a secular setting?
2. What specific wisdom does the writer pray we would have? Why do we need to get to know God better?
3. What are the three things the balance of the scripture tells us come from knowing God better? When have any of these things been important in your life?
4. Do you think that your faith life has increased your wisdom? In what ways?
Wisdom for Spiritual Health
Ephesians 5:15 Take care how you live. Do not live like people who are not wise, but live like people who are wise.
1. What are some criteria you use to select role models? What parts of your life have benefitted from role models? Can role models be helpful in some areas but the same person bad in others?
2. What happens when a role model lets us down? Is it inevitable?
3. When have you been a role model for others? Should this be something we should endeavor to do?
16Make good use of time because people live in very wrong ways these days.
17So then, be wise and understand what the Lord wants.
1. How do you interpret the writer’s comment about the way in which people live? What are some things that cause us to waste time?
2. What resources do you use to address and solve problems, set priorities, make important life choices? What is the recommendation here?
3. How do we come to “understand what the Lord wants”? Will we always receive clear direction or does it happen in other ways? Can you think of specific example of being guided by what you think God wanted for you?
18Do not get drunk with wine. That is living in a wrong way. But be filled with the Spirit.
1. What are some reasons many people become victims of substance abuse? What is this suggesting as an alternative? Do you know of examples of people whose faith helped them overcome some type of addiction?
2. Do you like being around people who seem to be ‘filled with the Spirit’? How does it manifest itself? What do you think causes this type of behavior?
3. Have you ever felt ‘filled with the spirit’? Did you share the experience with anyone?
19Speak to one another by the songs in the holy writings, and songs of praise, and Christian songs. Sing and make a joyful noise in your hearts to the Lord.
1. What is your take away from this advice? Should we stop listening to the Rolling Stones?
2. What are some ways in which we can incorporate this advice into our lives? Have you experienced the benefits of taking this advice?
20Always thank God the Father for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
1. Why is it important to give thanks to God for the things that happen in our lives? Who is giving thanks most important to? Why?
2. How is it possible to thank God when bad things happen? What might we thank God for in these circumstances?
Fear and Wisdom
"Fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom," appears in one form or another several times in the Old Testament. Read the commentary on fear below and reflect on the duality of its meaning:
FEAR: " 'Yara' is the common word for fear in the OT and has a basic two-fold range of meanings: (1) 'dread; terror' (Deu 1:29; Jon 1:10), (2) 'to stand in awe' (1Ki 3:28), (3) 'to revere; to respect' (Lev 19:3). With the LORD as the object, it captures the polar opposites of shrinking back in fear and drawing close in awe and adoration. Both categories of meaning appear in Exo 20:20 (where the LORD descended upon Sinai amidst geophysical convulsions); Moses encouraged the Israelites to not be afraid of God arbitrarily striking them dead for no reason ('Do not fear!') but informed the people that the LORD revealed himself in such a terrifying manner to scare them from sinning ('God has come only to test you and to put the fear of him in you so that you do not sin'). The fear of the LORD is expressed in reverential submission to his will -- the characteristic of true worship. Agora Bible Commentaries
1. How do you think that we should approach and understand God in seeking wisdom? Have you had some practical experiences which contribute to your “fear” of God?
Closing Litergy
Praise the Lord!
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart
The works of his hands are faithful and just;
all his precepts are trustworthy.
They are established for ever and ever,
to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
He sent redemption to his people;
he has commanded his covenant for ever.
Holy and awesome is his name.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
all those who practice it have a good understanding.
His praise endures for ever. From Psalm 111
Sunday, July 11, 2010
What would God have me do?
For 7/18/2010
As people of faith we know that God's guidance and wisdom are available to us as we make big and little choices about the direction our lives should take. This is true for us as individuals as well as for a congregation, a body of believers. Seeking this direction or wisdom is spoken of in church words as discernment. We look the story of a major league discernment experience, Paul's encounter on the road to Damascus. First a question to set the stage:
1. How would you define spiritual discernment? What do we need it for? What resources do we have for finding it?
Acts 9:1 Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers. So he went to the high priest. 2 He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains. 3 As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” 5 “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked. And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! 6 Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” 7 The men with Saul stood speechless, for they heard the sound of someone’s voice but saw no one! 8 Saul picked himself up off the ground, but when he opened his eyes he was blind. So his companions led him by the hand to Damascus. 9 He remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink.
1. Was Paul seeking (attempting to discern) God’s guidance for him in this “religious” mission as he rode toward Damascus? What about him and his life might have reinforced his confidence that he was doing the right thing in arresting these Christians? This is what he says about himself:
Philippians 3:5-6 circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; 6as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.
With this background would he even hesitate to oppose these Christian 'heretics"?
1. What are the elements of Paul’s dramatic discernment experience? How big a change must he make in his life? Was this something he would have expected in his wildest dreams?
2. What happened to Paul that day that changed the direction of his life? What are some events which can cause us to make a major reevaluate of the direction our life is taking?
3. What might motivate a desire for spiritual discernment for ourselves or a congregation? Do you think that God tries to get our attention? How might that happen?
4. These are the three things Paul learned on the road and in Damascus:
- “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting!”
- Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do
- From Ananias three days later: the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
5. How much initial detail did he have for what he was to do in what turned out to be a world changing life? Did he set off with a complete game plan?
6. With this in mind what do you think he had to learn about setting the direction and specific actions he was to take for the rest of his life? As an illustration the following is an example of the way in which he pursued the mission God had given him:
So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia; and from there they sailed to Cyprus. Acts 13:4
6. What do you take away as lessons that can be applied to our lives?
A Man Seeks Discernment
Mark 10:17 As he went out into the street, a man came running up, greeted him with great reverence, and asked, "Good Teacher, what must I do to get eternal life?" 18-19Jesus said, "Why are you calling me good? No one is good, only God. You know the commandments: Don't murder, don't commit adultery, don't steal, don't lie, don't cheat, honor your father and mother." 20He said, "Teacher, I have—from my youth—kept them all!"
1. What specifically is the man’s question? What does it say about him and his understanding of what God looks upon favorably?
2. What is Jesus’ response to the man’s question? What does obeying the commandments and by extension the Jewish law mean for a devout Jewish person of that time?
3. Why was he even asking the question, he had followed the law faithfully, why would he even feel he had to ask? What does it say about him and where he is in his life?
4. How might we phrase the question we would bring to Jesus as part of a personal or congregational discernment process? What could we cite that we have done personally or as a congregation to be faithful to God’s call to us?
Mark 10:21 Jesus looked him hard in the eye—and loved him! He said, "There's one thing left: Go sell whatever you own and give it to the poor. All your wealth will then be heavenly wealth. And come follow me." 22The man's face clouded over. This was the last thing he expected to hear, and he walked off with a heavy heart. He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and not about to let go.
1. How did Jesus react to the man’s answer? Why did Jesus love him and what does it say about seeking spiritual discernment?
2. Do you think that the man was expecting this type of answer to his question? What would he have to let go of in order to comply? (This scripture motivated St. Francis of Assisi to reject living as part of a wealthy family and claim a life of poverty.)
3. What is Mark’s evaluation of what caused the man to have a heavy heart (last sentence)? What is your reaction to Charles Cousar’s characterization of the things we “hold tight to”:
"anything that claims our highest loyalty, our ultimate concern, and prevents an uninhibited following of Jesus--not only wealth, but ambition, education, religion and the like…"
4. What are some of the strengths, important traditions and beliefs that we might be tempted to “hold on tight” and “not about to let go” as we seek God’s direction for us?
5. What do you take away from as inspiration and what questions do these scriptures raise for you?
Closing Prayer
O God who teaches the hearts of your faithful people by sending to us the light of your Holy Spirit; Grant us by that same Spirit to be enlightened in our minds, sanctified in our hearts, kindled in love and strengthened in faith. Amen
From the Book of Common Prayer of the Church of England
As people of faith we know that God's guidance and wisdom are available to us as we make big and little choices about the direction our lives should take. This is true for us as individuals as well as for a congregation, a body of believers. Seeking this direction or wisdom is spoken of in church words as discernment. We look the story of a major league discernment experience, Paul's encounter on the road to Damascus. First a question to set the stage:
1. How would you define spiritual discernment? What do we need it for? What resources do we have for finding it?
Acts 9:1 Meanwhile, Saul was uttering threats with every breath and was eager to kill the Lord’s followers. So he went to the high priest. 2 He requested letters addressed to the synagogues in Damascus, asking for their cooperation in the arrest of any followers of the Way he found there. He wanted to bring them—both men and women—back to Jerusalem in chains. 3 As he was approaching Damascus on this mission, a light from heaven suddenly shone down around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” 5 “Who are you, lord?” Saul asked. And the voice replied, “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! 6 Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” 7 The men with Saul stood speechless, for they heard the sound of someone’s voice but saw no one! 8 Saul picked himself up off the ground, but when he opened his eyes he was blind. So his companions led him by the hand to Damascus. 9 He remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink.
1. Was Paul seeking (attempting to discern) God’s guidance for him in this “religious” mission as he rode toward Damascus? What about him and his life might have reinforced his confidence that he was doing the right thing in arresting these Christians? This is what he says about himself:
Philippians 3:5-6 circumcised on the eighth day, a member of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; 6as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.
With this background would he even hesitate to oppose these Christian 'heretics"?
1. What are the elements of Paul’s dramatic discernment experience? How big a change must he make in his life? Was this something he would have expected in his wildest dreams?
2. What happened to Paul that day that changed the direction of his life? What are some events which can cause us to make a major reevaluate of the direction our life is taking?
3. What might motivate a desire for spiritual discernment for ourselves or a congregation? Do you think that God tries to get our attention? How might that happen?
4. These are the three things Paul learned on the road and in Damascus:
- “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” “I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting!”
- Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do
- From Ananias three days later: the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
5. How much initial detail did he have for what he was to do in what turned out to be a world changing life? Did he set off with a complete game plan?
6. With this in mind what do you think he had to learn about setting the direction and specific actions he was to take for the rest of his life? As an illustration the following is an example of the way in which he pursued the mission God had given him:
So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia; and from there they sailed to Cyprus. Acts 13:4
6. What do you take away as lessons that can be applied to our lives?
A Man Seeks Discernment
Mark 10:17 As he went out into the street, a man came running up, greeted him with great reverence, and asked, "Good Teacher, what must I do to get eternal life?" 18-19Jesus said, "Why are you calling me good? No one is good, only God. You know the commandments: Don't murder, don't commit adultery, don't steal, don't lie, don't cheat, honor your father and mother." 20He said, "Teacher, I have—from my youth—kept them all!"
1. What specifically is the man’s question? What does it say about him and his understanding of what God looks upon favorably?
2. What is Jesus’ response to the man’s question? What does obeying the commandments and by extension the Jewish law mean for a devout Jewish person of that time?
3. Why was he even asking the question, he had followed the law faithfully, why would he even feel he had to ask? What does it say about him and where he is in his life?
4. How might we phrase the question we would bring to Jesus as part of a personal or congregational discernment process? What could we cite that we have done personally or as a congregation to be faithful to God’s call to us?
Mark 10:21 Jesus looked him hard in the eye—and loved him! He said, "There's one thing left: Go sell whatever you own and give it to the poor. All your wealth will then be heavenly wealth. And come follow me." 22The man's face clouded over. This was the last thing he expected to hear, and he walked off with a heavy heart. He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and not about to let go.
1. How did Jesus react to the man’s answer? Why did Jesus love him and what does it say about seeking spiritual discernment?
2. Do you think that the man was expecting this type of answer to his question? What would he have to let go of in order to comply? (This scripture motivated St. Francis of Assisi to reject living as part of a wealthy family and claim a life of poverty.)
3. What is Mark’s evaluation of what caused the man to have a heavy heart (last sentence)? What is your reaction to Charles Cousar’s characterization of the things we “hold tight to”:
"anything that claims our highest loyalty, our ultimate concern, and prevents an uninhibited following of Jesus--not only wealth, but ambition, education, religion and the like…"
4. What are some of the strengths, important traditions and beliefs that we might be tempted to “hold on tight” and “not about to let go” as we seek God’s direction for us?
5. What do you take away from as inspiration and what questions do these scriptures raise for you?
Closing Prayer
O God who teaches the hearts of your faithful people by sending to us the light of your Holy Spirit; Grant us by that same Spirit to be enlightened in our minds, sanctified in our hearts, kindled in love and strengthened in faith. Amen
From the Book of Common Prayer of the Church of England
Talking to God
July 11, 2010
There are many different kinds of prayer with intercessory, prayers for others, being the most common. Today we look at prayer for ourselves, between us and God. Many times we do not think about praying for or about ourselves but it is an important part of our relationship with and connection to God. The form this part of our prayer life can be partially shaped by our image of ourselves and our picture or image of God. Below are two psalms from today’s Lectionary and a prayer by a Franciscan monk that we will explore for insights and inspiration. We start with some questions:
1. How do you picture God in prayer about prayer time? Do you think that this image affects the way in which you pray and your choice of words? Is having a mental picture of God important to us for a meaningful prayer life?
2. Are your prayers made directly to God or are the Spirit and Jesus part of your approach to prayer? Why have you chosen to pray in this way?
Psalm 141:1-2 God, come close. Come quickly! Open your ears—it's my voice you're hearing! Treat my prayer as sweet incense rising; my raised hands are my evening prayers.
1. Where is this person coming from as he makes this prayer? What does it tell us about the person and his picture of who God is?
2. What do you relate to in his method of addressing God and does anything make you uncomfortable?
Psalm 25:1-2 My head is high, God, held high; I'm looking to you, God; No hangdog skulking for me.
3 I've thrown in my lot with you; You won't embarrass me, will you? Or let my enemies get the best of me? Don't embarrass any of us Who went out on a limb for you. It's the traitors who should be humiliated.
4 Show me how you work, God; School me in your ways.
5 Take me by the hand; Lead me down the path of truth. You are my Savior, aren't you?
6 Mark the milestones of your mercy and love, God; Rebuild the ancient landmarks!
7 Forget that I sowed wild oats; Mark me with your sign of love. Plan only the best for me, God!
8 God is fair and just; He corrects the misdirected, Sends them in the right direction.
9 He gives the rejects his hand, And leads them step-by-step.
10 From now on every road you travel Will take you to God. Follow the Covenant signs; Read the charted directions.
11 Keep up your reputation, God; Forgive my bad life; It's been a very bad life.
1. What do verses 1-3 tell us about the picture the psalmist has of himself and God? What do you think he is assuming as he speaks these words? Would you be comfortable speaking words like this?
2. What does he ask for in verses 4-6? What do the words, “You are my Savior, aren’t You” say about him? Would you ever take this kind of attitude in your prayer life?
3. Do you like the bluntness of verses 7 & 11? Does he ask for forgiveness of specific acts? Do you think that it is important to ask for forgiveness of specific acts?
4. What do verses 8-10 tell us about his picture of God? Is it reflected in the way in which he addresses God and the words he uses in his prayer.
5. Is there anything here that you might incorporate into your prayer life?
Lord, I want to love you, yet I’m not sure.
I want to trust you, yet I’m afraid of being taken in.
I know I need you, yet I’m ashamed of the need.
I want to pray, yet I’m afraid of being a hypocrite.
I need my independence, yet I fear to be alone.
I want to belong, yet I must be myself.
Take me, Lord, yet leave me alone.
Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.
O Lord, if you are there, you do understand, don’t you?
Give me what I need but leave me free to choose.
Help me work it out my own way, but don’t let me go.
Let me understand myself, but don’t let me despair.
Come unto me, O Lord - I want you there.
Lighten my darkness - but don’t dazzle me.
Help me to see what I need to do and give me strength to do it.
O Lord, I believe, help thou my unbelief.
Bernard SSF
1. What is your reaction to this prayer? How would you characterize what he is doing; what is he praying for? Can you relate to anything in these words? Are there any which you feel are inappropriate?
2. How would you describe his picture of his faith life? How must he perceive God in order for him to verbalize these thoughts? What are some things that prevent us from being honest and straightforward with God?
3. The prayer seems to indicate that he wants his relationship with God to be on his terms. Is it about that or something else? Is an underlying desire to establish a relationship with God while we retain some control an unusual human impulse? What are some negatives that this might bring to a meaningful prayer life?
Your Prayer
Compose a prayer about yourself and what you would like from God.
Amen
Next Week’s Scriptures: Amos 8:1-12 or Genesis 18:1-10a, Psalm 52 or Psalm 15, Colossians 1:15-28, Luke 10:38-42
There are many different kinds of prayer with intercessory, prayers for others, being the most common. Today we look at prayer for ourselves, between us and God. Many times we do not think about praying for or about ourselves but it is an important part of our relationship with and connection to God. The form this part of our prayer life can be partially shaped by our image of ourselves and our picture or image of God. Below are two psalms from today’s Lectionary and a prayer by a Franciscan monk that we will explore for insights and inspiration. We start with some questions:
1. How do you picture God in prayer about prayer time? Do you think that this image affects the way in which you pray and your choice of words? Is having a mental picture of God important to us for a meaningful prayer life?
2. Are your prayers made directly to God or are the Spirit and Jesus part of your approach to prayer? Why have you chosen to pray in this way?
Psalm 141:1-2 God, come close. Come quickly! Open your ears—it's my voice you're hearing! Treat my prayer as sweet incense rising; my raised hands are my evening prayers.
1. Where is this person coming from as he makes this prayer? What does it tell us about the person and his picture of who God is?
2. What do you relate to in his method of addressing God and does anything make you uncomfortable?
Psalm 25:1-2 My head is high, God, held high; I'm looking to you, God; No hangdog skulking for me.
3 I've thrown in my lot with you; You won't embarrass me, will you? Or let my enemies get the best of me? Don't embarrass any of us Who went out on a limb for you. It's the traitors who should be humiliated.
4 Show me how you work, God; School me in your ways.
5 Take me by the hand; Lead me down the path of truth. You are my Savior, aren't you?
6 Mark the milestones of your mercy and love, God; Rebuild the ancient landmarks!
7 Forget that I sowed wild oats; Mark me with your sign of love. Plan only the best for me, God!
8 God is fair and just; He corrects the misdirected, Sends them in the right direction.
9 He gives the rejects his hand, And leads them step-by-step.
10 From now on every road you travel Will take you to God. Follow the Covenant signs; Read the charted directions.
11 Keep up your reputation, God; Forgive my bad life; It's been a very bad life.
1. What do verses 1-3 tell us about the picture the psalmist has of himself and God? What do you think he is assuming as he speaks these words? Would you be comfortable speaking words like this?
2. What does he ask for in verses 4-6? What do the words, “You are my Savior, aren’t You” say about him? Would you ever take this kind of attitude in your prayer life?
3. Do you like the bluntness of verses 7 & 11? Does he ask for forgiveness of specific acts? Do you think that it is important to ask for forgiveness of specific acts?
4. What do verses 8-10 tell us about his picture of God? Is it reflected in the way in which he addresses God and the words he uses in his prayer.
5. Is there anything here that you might incorporate into your prayer life?
Lord, I want to love you, yet I’m not sure.
I want to trust you, yet I’m afraid of being taken in.
I know I need you, yet I’m ashamed of the need.
I want to pray, yet I’m afraid of being a hypocrite.
I need my independence, yet I fear to be alone.
I want to belong, yet I must be myself.
Take me, Lord, yet leave me alone.
Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.
O Lord, if you are there, you do understand, don’t you?
Give me what I need but leave me free to choose.
Help me work it out my own way, but don’t let me go.
Let me understand myself, but don’t let me despair.
Come unto me, O Lord - I want you there.
Lighten my darkness - but don’t dazzle me.
Help me to see what I need to do and give me strength to do it.
O Lord, I believe, help thou my unbelief.
Bernard SSF
1. What is your reaction to this prayer? How would you characterize what he is doing; what is he praying for? Can you relate to anything in these words? Are there any which you feel are inappropriate?
2. How would you describe his picture of his faith life? How must he perceive God in order for him to verbalize these thoughts? What are some things that prevent us from being honest and straightforward with God?
3. The prayer seems to indicate that he wants his relationship with God to be on his terms. Is it about that or something else? Is an underlying desire to establish a relationship with God while we retain some control an unusual human impulse? What are some negatives that this might bring to a meaningful prayer life?
Your Prayer
Compose a prayer about yourself and what you would like from God.
Amen
Next Week’s Scriptures: Amos 8:1-12 or Genesis 18:1-10a, Psalm 52 or Psalm 15, Colossians 1:15-28, Luke 10:38-42
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Get Serious
Galatians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul for circulation in the new churches in Galatia, now part of central Turkey. Paul is a complex personality who wears his heart on his sleeve and doesn't mind speaking clearly about exactly what is on his mind. I am one of his big fans as he alternately inspires and confounds us in his writings.
This lesson was written during a time of discernment and transition in the life of my church. But speaks to us clearly and succinctly about getting real, getting serious about the implication of being a spiritual person or a spiritual community. The translations are from The Message which is rapidly becoming my favorite version of the bible.
Get Serious!
Galatians 5:25-26 Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original.
1. What is Paul’s caution to us, the people who have chosen the life of the Spirit? Do you think it is true and how have you seen it play out in your experience? Karen Armstrong writes some of the same thoughts in The Case For God:
Religion will not work automatically, however; it requires a great deal of effort and cannot succeed if it is facile, false, idolatrous, or self-indulgent. Religion is a practical discipline, and its insights are not derived from abstract speculation but from spiritual exercises and a dedicated lifestyle.
2. What does “work out its implications in every detail of our lives” mean to you? Can you relate to it in thinking about other responsibilities we have either chosen or agreed to take on like parenthood or a relationship? What are some issues that need to be overcome and aids/motivators for moving in this direction?
3. Paul seems to direct his comments to us as individuals but do you think that working out the implications in every detail of our lives applies to our church? Are there ways in which we might better incorporate the Spirit in our congregational life?
4. What additional caution is given, how can we get off-track as we seek to live a spiritual life? Why is comparing ourselves with others an issue? Can you think of examples that illustrate this point?
Paul gives us some examples of living the life of the Spirit
Galatians 6:1-3 Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day's out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ's law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived.
4-5 Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don't be impressed with yourself. Don't compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.
6 Be very sure now, you who have been trained to a self-sufficient maturity, that you enter into a generous common life with those who have trained you, sharing all the good things that you have and experience.
1. How do you interpret Paul’s advice on dealing with someone who has problems? How should we deal with them? Can you think of examples when this has been and has not been the manner in which a situation was dealt with?
2. What do we need to be careful to remember as we deal with problems others have? Who should we be critically evaluating, ourselves or those who need our help?
3. How should we deal with those who are oppressed? Who in our community might be considered oppressed? What gives us pause when we think about people who might fit this description?
4. What seems to be the given in verses 4-5? Do you think that you have a God given assignment? What are some things that might sidetrack us if we compare ourselves with others? How might doing our creative best apply to us and the life of our congregation today?
5. When you think of the word trained, who and what do you think of in terms of your spiritual life? How might his advice on sharing be understood?
Don’t Get Off-Track
Galatians 6:7-8 Don't be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he'll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God's Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life.
9-10 So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don't give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.
1. In verses 7-8 Paul speaks to planting and harvesting, does your life’s experience support his observation? What is the key to planting a crop of real life? How might we practically grow in living by God’s Spirit?
2. One of things that might naturally manifest itself in an aging congregation is fatigue, a lack of energy in our congregational life. How might these words apply to the life of our congregation today? What practical advice does he give us for maintaining our get up and go? What would you like to see us as a congregation do to build and maintain spiritual energy?
Closing Prayer
We ask that the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory, make us intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, our eyes focused and clear, so that we can see exactly what it is he is calling us to do, and grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for us, his followers. Amen. From Ephesians 1:17-19
Next Week’s Scriptures: Amos 7:7-17 or Deuteronomy 30:9-14, Psalm 82 or Psalm 25:1-10, Colossians 1:1-14, Luke 10:25-37
This lesson was written during a time of discernment and transition in the life of my church. But speaks to us clearly and succinctly about getting real, getting serious about the implication of being a spiritual person or a spiritual community. The translations are from The Message which is rapidly becoming my favorite version of the bible.
Get Serious!
Galatians 5:25-26 Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original.
1. What is Paul’s caution to us, the people who have chosen the life of the Spirit? Do you think it is true and how have you seen it play out in your experience? Karen Armstrong writes some of the same thoughts in The Case For God:
Religion will not work automatically, however; it requires a great deal of effort and cannot succeed if it is facile, false, idolatrous, or self-indulgent. Religion is a practical discipline, and its insights are not derived from abstract speculation but from spiritual exercises and a dedicated lifestyle.
2. What does “work out its implications in every detail of our lives” mean to you? Can you relate to it in thinking about other responsibilities we have either chosen or agreed to take on like parenthood or a relationship? What are some issues that need to be overcome and aids/motivators for moving in this direction?
3. Paul seems to direct his comments to us as individuals but do you think that working out the implications in every detail of our lives applies to our church? Are there ways in which we might better incorporate the Spirit in our congregational life?
4. What additional caution is given, how can we get off-track as we seek to live a spiritual life? Why is comparing ourselves with others an issue? Can you think of examples that illustrate this point?
Paul gives us some examples of living the life of the Spirit
Galatians 6:1-3 Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day's out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ's law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived.
4-5 Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don't be impressed with yourself. Don't compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.
6 Be very sure now, you who have been trained to a self-sufficient maturity, that you enter into a generous common life with those who have trained you, sharing all the good things that you have and experience.
1. How do you interpret Paul’s advice on dealing with someone who has problems? How should we deal with them? Can you think of examples when this has been and has not been the manner in which a situation was dealt with?
2. What do we need to be careful to remember as we deal with problems others have? Who should we be critically evaluating, ourselves or those who need our help?
3. How should we deal with those who are oppressed? Who in our community might be considered oppressed? What gives us pause when we think about people who might fit this description?
4. What seems to be the given in verses 4-5? Do you think that you have a God given assignment? What are some things that might sidetrack us if we compare ourselves with others? How might doing our creative best apply to us and the life of our congregation today?
5. When you think of the word trained, who and what do you think of in terms of your spiritual life? How might his advice on sharing be understood?
Don’t Get Off-Track
Galatians 6:7-8 Don't be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he'll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God's Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life.
9-10 So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don't give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.
1. In verses 7-8 Paul speaks to planting and harvesting, does your life’s experience support his observation? What is the key to planting a crop of real life? How might we practically grow in living by God’s Spirit?
2. One of things that might naturally manifest itself in an aging congregation is fatigue, a lack of energy in our congregational life. How might these words apply to the life of our congregation today? What practical advice does he give us for maintaining our get up and go? What would you like to see us as a congregation do to build and maintain spiritual energy?
Closing Prayer
We ask that the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory, make us intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, our eyes focused and clear, so that we can see exactly what it is he is calling us to do, and grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for us, his followers. Amen. From Ephesians 1:17-19
Next Week’s Scriptures: Amos 7:7-17 or Deuteronomy 30:9-14, Psalm 82 or Psalm 25:1-10, Colossians 1:1-14, Luke 10:25-37
Beginning in the Beginning
The core of this blog will built on studies from one of the week's Lectionary scriptures. The Lectionary evolved, possibly from an ancient devotional, into a three year walk through the bible. An interdenominational group is responsible for its care and feeding and we find the weekly scriptures are utilized in most mainline Protestant and Catholic services. Each Sunday scriptures from the Old Testament, a Gospel, an epistle, and a Psalm are identified for reading in the service and can be used by the clergy as the basis for the weekly message. The Lectionary has a repeating three year cycle and will cover most of the Bible during that time. There are many on-line commentaries for the weekly scriptures and one of my favorites is textweek.com.
The material and studies herein are based on the musings and observations of a person who has either led or been a part of bible study groups of various descriptions for over forty years. In the course of these bible related activities non-biblical scholar type research has been done. Over the years related books and reference materials have been read as part of preparation to lead or teach or in the course of satisfying personal curiosity and interest. So what is contained herein is strictly personal understanding and opinion, nothing more and nothing less.
Which gets me to a second very important point:
The very nature of the Bible makes its gifts unique to the individual reader. No one, regardless of their credentials, education, or theology can claim to know what the "true" meaning of any piece of scripture should be for you. People with credentials may be able to work with the original languages, know the cultural and historic backgrounds of the writers and their contemporaries. But this only helps us with context and accuracy of translation, which is of course interesting and important. You should instead be freed to interpret the meaning of scripture and apply it to your life. Reading and applying what we learn from scripture is an intensely personal experience and we should approach it without fear of being wrong or judged by others.
The material and studies herein are based on the musings and observations of a person who has either led or been a part of bible study groups of various descriptions for over forty years. In the course of these bible related activities non-biblical scholar type research has been done. Over the years related books and reference materials have been read as part of preparation to lead or teach or in the course of satisfying personal curiosity and interest. So what is contained herein is strictly personal understanding and opinion, nothing more and nothing less.
Which gets me to a second very important point:
The very nature of the Bible makes its gifts unique to the individual reader. No one, regardless of their credentials, education, or theology can claim to know what the "true" meaning of any piece of scripture should be for you. People with credentials may be able to work with the original languages, know the cultural and historic backgrounds of the writers and their contemporaries. But this only helps us with context and accuracy of translation, which is of course interesting and important. You should instead be freed to interpret the meaning of scripture and apply it to your life. Reading and applying what we learn from scripture is an intensely personal experience and we should approach it without fear of being wrong or judged by others.
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