Video Lesson: Out of the Heart | Beth Moore | Minding the Store (Part 1 of 5)

 

In this first installment of a five-part series, Bible teacher Beth Moore explores the true meaning of goodness, and what it looks like when believers take stock of what's in their hearts. Key Verses: Luke 6:17-19, 27-46, Luke 18:15-21, Matthew 6:21. Watch and study along as Beth presents her message as only she can!

Enjoy!

~Eve

God, Can You Hear Me?

"The Bible is a letter God has sent to us. Prayer is a letter we send to Him."   -Matthew Henry

How often do we turn to the inspiration found in Christ only to realize how long it has been since God has spoken to us through Him. What we truly want is to hear God for ourselves, namely, to hear Him speak today.

But, unless God speaks now it can be difficult to believe that He ever spoke at all. Some might even find it ridiculous to imagine that a revelation was proclaimed to men over many centuries, then stopped sometime around A.D.70, and have since heard nothing else.

Blessedly, He does speak to us today! It is by way of the Bible that we assess (check-out) and recognize the voice of God from all others. Yes, God speaks to us today, but we may not recognize His voice (Hebrews 1:1).

By saying this, I'm not denying that He speaks to us through perceptible (audible) means. or via dreams, visions, thoughts, and/or appearances. However, I think it's safe to assume that God doesn't speak to all of us in this manner.

So, how might we recognize the Voice of God when He speaks to us at the present time? God speaks to men in the highest morals and standards of the time. God speaks to men when their thoughts are provoked to higher concepts of truth. And, speaks through other individuals.

What each of us can do is listen for God's voice in our own personal lives. As long as God speaks to men and nations across time, He will speak to you and I. You might wonder, "Then, how will I know that He speaks to me?"

This is a fair question that many have asked. After all, we might speak to God in prayer, but we don't hear anything. This makes us wonder whether He is listening to us, or not. How would we know? (Job 33:14)

Here are a few things to consider that may help ease your mind. When prayer makes us better persons He has spoken. Whenever our conscience is aroused, our souls motivated, and we are inspired to a higher quality life, He has spoken (Hebrews 1:1-2).

It will become obvious, in that moment, that that His good and perfect gift has been sent down to us from above. Still, one might turn away at this point; when the finish line lies just ahead (Galatians 5:7-10). How sad and unfortunate for this person. For to reject this precious gift, is to surely reject God Himself.

Scripture: John 10:27-28; Romans 10:17; Isaiah 55:11; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Jeremiah 17:10

Prayer: "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."  - Galatians 2:20 (ESV)

God bless you!

Mary

Bible Study - 1 John 2:1-29

"My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father--Jesus Christ, the Righteous One."  - 1 John 2:1

Hello! It’s so nice to have you join me again for this Bible study on The First Epistle of John; otherwise known as 1 John. This is the second installment of the series in which we will explore 1 John, Chapter 2.

In our first installment, we discussed how a "Fellowship with God" is foundational to Christian life. In other words, when we are in true fellowship with God we share a relational experience with Him. 

We are partners with God because we trust in Him, are filled with the Spirit, and forgiven of sin. We also believe that God is worthy of being glorified in all things; this includes faithfully reading the Bible, and offering our prayers.

In addition to continuing the discussion of our fellowship with God, 1 John 2 raises the topic of Jesus as our Advocate. I think it would help to briefly inquire into what this means.

The word Advocate comes from the Greek word parakleton, and can mean: Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, and Comforter. Traditionally, an advocate is a person who pleads for, or on behalf of, another.

If you or I are brought to trial on some serious charge, we would need someone to speak on our behalf, or mediate for us. That is, we'd need an advocate to speak for our rights.  

Our blatant disobedience of His standards, denying His right to govern our lives, and persistent sinning despite our being aware of the truth, has declared us guilty on all counts against God's righteous law (Romans 3:19).

As a result, the only fair penalty for such iniquity (sinfulness) is eternal damnation (Revelation 14:10; 21:8). Mercifully, Jesus is our Advocate in heaven. Only He, who is without sin, is qualified to do this (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Jesus is established as our Advocate between the law and our remorseful (repentant) hearts. He appeals our case with God, if his precious blood has been put to use in our lives by way of faith, and confess (acknowledge) Jesus as Lord (Romans 10:9-10).

Naturally, this topic is much larger than our room allows for here. At the very least, you now have a better idea of what will be discussed in our study. Before we proceed, I've provided some things to keep in mind. 

We have been given an Advocate who also serves as a propitiation (appeasement) for our sins. In order to genuinely know Him, we must observe His commandments (vv. 1-6); specifically, loving each other (vv. 7-11). 

Also, John recounts the spiritual condition of his original readers (vv. 12-14). He forewarns them against loving the world and being misled by antichrists (vv. 15-23); this, by allowing the truth to dwell within them, and they in Christ (vv. 24-29).

Additional Points to Consider:

• The reliable test of knowing Jesus as both our Advocate and our propitiation.
• Worldly things we cannot love.
• John identifies the antichrist(s) in his writings.

Helpful Information: The answers will be found within the numbered verses that are given. If you have trouble with a question, continue on and return to it again. Re-read the verse as many times as needed!

Opening Prayer: Dear LORD, as I prepare to study your Word I pray for an open and accepting heart and mind; may it also restore, replenish, and nourish my heart, soul, and spirit. Amen.

Study Questions: 

1) How can Jesus help us when we have sinned? (1 John 2:1-2)

2) What two pieces of evidence demonstrate that we know Jesus and dwell inside Him? (1 John 2:3-6)

3) Describe a commandment that is both "old" and "new." (1 John 2:7-11). See also: John 13:34-35

4) Write down three groups of people and their spiritual state according to John. (1 John 2:12-14)

5) List three worldly things that we should not love. (1 John 2:15-17)

6) What three things does John tell us about the antichrist(s)? (1 John 2:18-23)

7) How can we be certain that we will abide (stay, dwell) in the Son and the Father? (1 John 2:24-29)

We've reached the end of our bible study for now. I hope, with all sincerity, that you've found this lesson both informative and inspirational. Each study will build upon the last, therefore, please join me again next time! 

Until then, "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."   -1 Corinthians 16:13

Scripture: 1 John 2:2; John 3:16; 1 Peter 3:18; Titus 3:5-7; 1 Timothy 2:6

Prayer: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”   - 1 John 1:7  (ESV)

Joyfully in Christ,

Bridget

Video Study: Brooke Ligertwood: The Bible is Your Anchor in Seasons of Unknowns | Women of Faith

Singer-Songwriter Brooke Ligertwood joins the women of Better Together to discuss how to trust God when you aren't sure of the outcome. Watch as they explore the transformative power of faith and God's love in overcoming life's challenges!

~Enjoy!

Eve

Jesus Is the Way: A Man on a Mission!

"God is as sternly and inflexibly just toward sin as if he never forgave iniquity, and yet he forgives sinners through Christ Jesus as freely and fully as if he never punished a transgression."   - C. H. Spurgeon

At the end of our last meeting, we were discussing a few particulars regarding how God provides forgiveness through His Son Jesus Christ. These included: 

• the offering up of His Son as the propitiation (appeasement) for our sins (1 John 4:9-10); and
• how Jesus, through the shedding of his blood on the Cross, provides forgiveness for our sins (Ephesians 1:7).

I feel that it would be extremely beneficial to pause here for a moment, and reflect on what this means. And though we may not be able to answer every question here, it can certainly be a starting point for further study. 

During the course of his earthly ministry, Jesus mentioned on different occasions what His mission was while here with us (Luke 2:49, 9:51,19:10; Matthew 9:13; John 17:4). 

He also incorporated parables to explain this, such as The Parable of the Lost Coin and The Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. Fortunately for us, even today Jesus is seeking and saving those who submissively rest their faith in Him (Matthew 11:29; Revelation 3:20).

Granted there is a lot to digest regarding this topic, and it is easy to get confused and/or frustrated over it. But let’s try to pare down, or reduce this matter to something more manageable.

The basic mission of Jesus Christ here on earth was to fulfill God’s plan of saving the lost, that’s you and I, my friends (1 John 2:2). But this didn’t end because of His sacrificial death! Even after this, Jesus continued on his earthly mission for a bit.

Remember, Jesus was sent here to accomplish God’s plan of saving the lost. What does this require? What do we need to do on our part? And what happened after His death? These are good questions, and a perfect stopping point for now.

I hope you're enjoying this exploration as much as I am. Please feel free to review any of our past sessions at any time. Join me next time as we continue on our journey to know why Jesus is the Way!

Scripture: Mark 8:34; Romans 5:8; 1 Peter 2:24; Romans 6:23; Colossians 1:20 

Prayer: "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."  - Psalm 73:26  (ESV)

May God bless you!

Brandi

Bible Study - 1 John 1:1-10

"Our love to God is measured by our everyday fellowship with others and the love it displays."  - Andrew Murray

I'm so happy that you have joined me this week! In our last meeting, we had a brief introduction to The First Epistle of John, or 1 John.

Beginning this week, we shall launch into our study of this epistle and the two that follow. You are certainly more than welcome to go back to the previous installment for background information, or review.

“Fellowship with God” is stressed throughout the first chapter. Here, John underscores that fellowship with God is foundational to Christian life. But what is this “fellowship,” and "how does it apply to us?"

The Greek word for “fellowship” is koinōnia, which translates into "participation or sharing." This basically means that when we are in genuine fellowship with God, we are partners, or share a relational experience with Him.

I've listed some important points to consider as you proceed through the first chapter. They are:

• The witness (testimony)of John concerning the Word of Life.
• The nature of the evidence for faith in Jesus.
• The basis of our fellowship with God. 

Helpful Information: The answers will be found within the numbered verses that are given. If you have trouble with a question, continue on and return to it again. Re-read the verse as many times as needed!

Opening Prayer: Dear LORD, as I prepare to study your Word I pray for an open and accepting heart and mind; may it also restore, replenish, and nourish my heart, soul, and spirit. Amen.

Study Questions: 

1) What are the two (2) main points of Chapter 1? (1 John 1:1-4; 5-10)  *Carefully read the entire chapter before answering this question! 

2) Describe how the beginning to this, John’s epistle, is similar to that of his gospel. (1 John 1:1-4; John 1:1-14)

3) What is John's description of the pre-incarnate Jesus? (1 John 1:1)

4) What firsthand, or observed, evidence does John provide regarding the Word? (1 John 1:1)

5) What does John announce (proclaim)? What does he want to share? What is his reason for writing? (1 John 1:2-4)

6) What message has John heard that he makes known to us now? (1 John1:5)

7) If we declare that we have fellowship with God but walk in darkness, what are we? (1 John1:6)

8) How do we benefit by walking in the light together with God? (1 John 1:7)

9) What happens when we say that we have no sin? (1 John 1:8, 10)

10) What is required of us in order to be forgiven of sin and cleansed of all unrighteousness? (1 John 1:9) 

We've come to the end of our bible study for now. I hope you've found this lesson both informative and inspirational. Each study will build upon the last, therefore, please join us again next time. 

Until then, "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."   -1 Corinthians 16:13

Scripture: Acts 2:42; Hebrews 10:25; Proverbs 27:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; 2 Corinthians 13:14 

Prayer: “That I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,”   - Philippians 3:10 (ESV)

Joyfully in Christ,

Bridget

Video Lesson: Victory in an Uphill Battle (Part 2 of 2) - Beth Moore

In this concluding video lesson, Bible teacher Beth Moore poses two questions: First, can we keep from sabotaging ourselves with self-condemnation? Second, can we keep from expending our much needed energy on blame?

The Bible references she uses are Joshua 9 and 10. It would be helpful to review both chapters prior to watching the video. Remember, God does the impossible. If He can make the sun stand still for Joshua, He can do something outrageous in your life.

Love and grace always,

~Eve 

Jesus Is the Way - And Then Came Jesus...

"God proved His love on the Cross. When Christ hung and bled, and died, it was saying to the world, 'I love you.' "   -- Billy Graham

Last time, we discussed how our relationship with God was ruined by our sins. We need help in order to restore (set things right) with Him. But, how does even one go about this? We can't do it on own merits (Ephesians 2:8-9).

What is needed is a "change," or reconciliation in the relationship between God and man (us). This is where Jesus Christ steps in. Only He could reconcile (restore) this bond that was broken by sin (Ephesians 2:1; 4:18).

However, before we move ahead, let's step back for just a moment and focus on Jesus' purpose in all of this. It is our imperfection (because of sin) that created this disruption in our relationship with God. That is, He is perfect; we are not.

Being created in His image, we were perfect once, until our sin took care of that (Genesis 1:27; 3:7). Once man had sinned against God it all worsened from there. Suddenly our relationship had changed. Every thing changed!

And no matter how many sacrifices or laws were made, it would never be enough to save us (Psalm 51:16-17; Hosea 6:6). Thankfully, God loved us so much that he couldn't stand idly by and allow us to wallow helplessly in sin (Romans 3:23).

Coming back to what was said earlier, Jesus Christ came here to mend our broken relationship with God. In fact, God sent Him for that specific purpose (John 3:16); which would require "sacrifice" of a different sort.

Remember, in the O.T., God considered the blood sacrifice of a perfect animal as payment for man's sin (Genesis 3:21). It was this shedding of innocent blood that served as propitiation for it: as we are hardly innocent of sin.

It was the intentional shedding of Jesus' blood on the Cross that would reconcile the break between God and us. God the Father accepted the blood of His Son as payment for the debt of our sins (John 3:16; Colossians 2:13–15).

This was quite necessary because without the shedding of the innocent blood of Jesus, forgiveness would be out of the question. Without it, we (you and I) would suffer eternal separation from God (Hebrews 9:22).

Consequently, there is only "one" true way to a better life, and forgiveness of our sins and that is through Jesus Christ (John 14:6). But as wonderful as these blessings may resonate with us, there is still more. I do hope you will join me next time!

Scripture: John 6:44; Luke 19:10; John 1:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:9; 1 Peter 2:24 

Prayer: "Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation."  - Psalm 68:19  (ESV)

May God bless you!

Brandi

Friday "Light" - His Unfailing Love

 **New**

"Whatever a person may be like, we must still love them because we love God."   - John Calvin

 

I’d like to talk about “love” for a moment, if I may. There are many different kinds of love, for sure. Off hand, I can think of: love for certain foods, love for our families, and romantic love, just to name a few.

But for now, let’s focus on the kind of love demonstrated by God. Few would argue that the love given to us by Him is matchless and beyond comparison. But what does this mean? 

It certainly isn't what we see going on in the world today! The type of love I am talking about is an unfailing love; the kind that is spoken about and demonstrated many times over in the Bible. 

The dictionary defines "unfailing" as: not failing; not liable to fail; inexhaustible; certain; sure. Psalm 13:5 (NLT) mentions God's unfailing love. Also: Exodus 15:13; Psalm 6:4, 26:3, 32:10, 33:22, and many more.

We can see "unfailing love" in action in: the story of Hosea and Gomer (Book of Hosea); the Book of Ruth, with it's account of Ruth's unselfish and compassionate loyalty to Naomi; and the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15). 

Compassion, patience, faithfulness, and forgiveness are all hallmarks of God's love. Without a doubt, God has every reason to turn his back on us. We've given him every justification in the world to do so. 

The whole Bible declares God's "unfailing love." The ultimate example of God's "unfailing love" is what He did for us; sending Jesus, His Only Begotten Son to die for our sins (Romans 5:8).

Without question, God is always faithful; while you and I are not so much. And yet, His love for us remains steadfast, true, unwavering, unfailing. He is ever-gracefully standing by with restoring mercy, and an inexhaustible love (Lamentations 3:22-23). 

Scripture: John 13:34; 1 Peter 3:8; Ephesians 4:32; Zechariah 7:9-10; Psalm 103:8 

Prayer: “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.”  - Psalm 51:1  (ESV)

Grace and blessings,

Margot 

Video Lesson: Victory in an Uphill Battle (Part 1 of 2 ) - Beth Moore

Beth Moore asks: "Are you finding yourself in a fierce uphill battle? Do you feel like you're fighting so hard that you can't even draw your sword for the battle; that you're just trying to survive, standing long enough to face it?" 

Did the thought ever occur to you that "sometimes we're fighting the wrong enemy!" In this, Part 1 of 2 video lessons, (based on Joshua 9 and 10*), Beth Moore teaches us what we can do when we find ourselves in such circumstances; as we all will at some point during our lives.

* (I highly recommend that you read Joshua 9 and 10 prior to watching this video!)

Love and grace always,

~Eve 

Bible Study - (Introduction/Prologue) 1, 2, 3 John

"Inasmuch as love grows in you, in so much beauty grows; for love is itself the beauty of the soul."  -Augustine of Hippo, Homilies on the First Epistle of John

Hello, and welcome! I have selected 1, 2, 3 John as our first Bible study. It speaks to me personally, mostly because of what I see happening around the world today. From time to time, the believer in Christ needs reassurance that they are still on the right path; and that He is still there.

Before starting in on the questions, I strongly suggest that you read 1, 2, 3 John more than a few times. They're not very long, but some say they can be perplexing. Reading them at a comfortable pace is encouraged. It’s understanding what you read, not the speed!

I’ve included a concise (brief) introduction of the “letter” to help set the stage for our study. If you are interested in learning more, there is a lot more information available from various sources. It is my hope that this study inspires you to follow up on this. Now, let’s launch into our study.

Prologue: Principle themes subsequently developed in the letter are introduced (1 John 1-4). Three in particular are: (a) the significance of first-hand testimony by apostles as to the identity of Jesus. (b) the implication of Jesus’ earthly ministry as a component of the revelation of God Himself in Jesus Christ (cf. 4:2, 5:6), and (c) eternal life is attainable for those who believe in Jesus Christ (5:11-12, 5:20).

Author: Although the text doesn’t really say who wrote it, the apostle John, son of Zebedee, is customarily thought to be the author. Interestingly, the writer indicates having a first-hand relationship with Jesus (1 John 1:1-4).

Target Audience: The First Epistle of John, which is a “catholic epistle” or general letter, was composed by the apostle toward the end of the first century (AD 80-90). Though written for believers, it was not directed at any particular church or district. 1 John is also very likely the final apostolic message to the entire Church. 

At this time, the churches were being jeopardized by false teachings that combined aspects from various heresies (misconceptions). John’s objective was to give strength to his readers who were Christians living in Asia Minor (Ephesus); imparting to them knowledge, joy, and courage in their faith. 

In addition, he resolved to boost their confidence and self-respect as they became aware of God’s faithfulness to forgive sins, and expunge (rub out) their guilt. In this way, they would be unrestrained to fulfill God’s command to love each other.

"Fellowship" is the central point of 1 John which includes: opposition to false teachings, and remaining steadfast in faith (1 John 1:3). This implies fellowship both with John and his following, and God by way of both the Father and Christ (1 John 1:1-3).

As we get under way with our study, let’s first look into the Prologue (1 John 1:1-4) and see if we can shed some light on the matter of “eternal life.” What does it tell us about its reality, and the Incarnation? I have included some questions below to help guide you along.

    1) What are some key phrases that tell us whether the announcement/message is true, or not? (1 John 1:1)

    2) What proves that the Person is real/actual? Who was He with? (1 John 1:2)?

    3) What was the motivation for “fellowship,” and with whom (1 John 1:3)?

    4) What is the hoped-for result of all these things (1 John 1:4)?

Hopefully, this served to familiarize you with the format we will be using. When we meet again we will pick up Chapter One of this epistle. Until then, I pray for your health, safety, and faith in Christ.

Scripture: Matthew 18:20; 1 Corinthians 1:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; 1 Corinthians 12:12; Romans 1:12

Prayer: “And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.”   - 1 John 5:20 (ESV)

Joyfully in Christ,

Bridget

Friday "Light" - Almost Saved, But Not Quite!

**New**

"Some give up their designs when they have almost reached the goal; while others, on the contrary, obtain a victory by exerting, at the last moment, more vigorous efforts than ever before."   - Herodotus

 

There are many people who "almost" reached their goal, or "very nearly"  achieved their dream, barely missing the mark. Then, they just simply stopped or gave up trying.

They each had their reasons for not continuing to pursue their hopes or dreams. But the questions will always remain: "Did I truly give it my all?" "Did I quit too soon?" Did I let others sway my decision due to a lack of self-confidence?"

In Acts 26, the apostle Paul, spent two years in custody; being put there by Jewish leaders who wanted him dead because he was spreading the message about Jesus' resurrection. Paul then appeals his case to a higher Roman court. 

But, before he has the chance to appear there, Festus the governor of Judea invites Paul to plead his case in front of King Agrippa II. Paul believes that the King has some familiarity with the Jewish religion, culture (Acts 26:2-3); and even prophesies of Jewish Scripture (Acts 26:27).

After Paul gives his testimony, Festus thinks that he must be unstable. However, Agrippa not only finds  Paul's story captivating, but he also understands it somewhat and wants to know more. 

In fact, he is so inspired by it that he's "almost" compelled to become a Christian himself (Acts 26:28). Paul then challenges him to believe in Jesus, and that's when Agrippa draws back.

Sadly, King Agrippa thought this would create too many difficulties for someone in his position. As Paul was a Roman citizen, and also realizing that there was no good reason for holding him, they sent him on to appeal his case in Rome. 

The point of this, is Agrippa was "almost" saved, but "not quite." Sadly, too many put this off until tomorrow, or when a better situation presents itself. But there is no such thing as being "nearly" saved, or "almost" a Christian (Acts 2:21).

Good intentions don't quite cut it when it comes to accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Either you're all in, or all out. There is no "almost," "practically," or "more or less." 

The good thing is, Jesus wants us to be "fully" saved more than anything (1 Timothy 2:3-4). Don't put it off another minute. His offer of salvation will be here tomorrow...but there is no guarantee that you will be (John 3:3)!

Scripture: Romans 6:23; Acts 16:31; 1 John 1:9; John 8:24; 1 Peter 2:24

Prayer: “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”  - 2 Peter 3:9  (ESV)

Grace and blessings,

Margot