Bible Studies To-Go | Spiritless Religion

"Unless our world is rightly ordered and God is rightly prioritized, we will end up worshiping and serving things besides God."  - Charles Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

The ©Bible Studies To-Go series presents abridged Scripture studies that are tailored for the contemporary believer who desires to enhance their Bible learning, but is limited by a demanding daily routine. 

Our concise studies focus on themes, topics, and in some cases are even developed by questions we gather from our work with others. In-depth Bible studies can easily be obtained from other sources, if one prefers that.

Opening Prayer: "God, we are grateful to be here together. Please speak to us through your Word and help us to listen with open hearts. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Background Information: Perfunctory religion is religion without devotion, an indifferent, insincere performance of faith without genuine belief. A superficial (or shallow) faith is seen as empty, hypocritical, and ultimately worthless. 

In The Dangers of a Shallow Faith, American Christian pastor A. W. Tozer warned against spiritual lethargy, noting that "hasty and superficial communion with God" weakens a person's sense of sin.

Topic for Study: Perfunctory religion, a religion of just "going through the motions." 

God issues alerts against this throughout the Bible. In Isaiah 1:10-17 and Matthew 15:1-9 He warns against "empty ritualism." He also cautions against the danger of "dead works" in James 2:14-26 and Hebrews 6:1, as only a few examples.

Thought-Provoking Question: Take a moment and consider your own faith. Are there instances when your prayers feel more like a "habit" than a passionate, heartfelt connection?

Section One: To help shed light on this topic, our study begins with the dangers of shallow, external religiousness devoid of sincere devotion. We shall begin by examining characteristics of perfunctory religion. 

• Hollow and feigned engagement - This is "going through the motions" of religious practice. A show of religion without any genuine feeling or emotion. 
• Placing the emphasis on "external" acts, and not "inner" life - For example, public displays of piety, such as attending church while neglecting a private, personal relationship with God. One's true motives can be assessed by comparing their public and private devotion.
• Routine and rote worship - This involves repetition of prayers or rituals in a thoughtless, mechanical manner.
• Being negligent and unprincipled - These are signs of a person who is untrustworthy, irresponsible, callous, and lacking in conscience.
• Fueled by improper motives - Where the motivation of religious acts is driven by a desire for praise from others or personal benefit, taking precedence over a sincere, heartfelt intent to please God.
• Stunted spiritual development - Perfunctory faith without active engagement and consideration, can lead to spiritual indifference, and minimal communion or joy in an individual's relationship with God. 

Thought-Provoking Question: How does the world sometimes encourage or promote a perfunctory (superficial) approach to religion?

Section Two: Now that we have identified some characteristics of perfunctory religion, let's check out a few things one can put into action to surmount or overcome it.

• Pray for God to create a clean heart and renew a right spirit within you - Acknowledge your spiritual apathy and ask God to reawaken your desire for Him.
• Return to fundamentals - Practice the basics such as Bible reading and prayer, giving precedence to intimacy with God instead of simply completing a task.
• Evaluate your intent - Consistently check your heart and ask why you engage in religious activities. Are you looking for God's favor or validation, or are you earnestly motivated by love for Him?
• Reach out to others - Fostering a sense of community with other believers can help keep you connected, and can jumpstart your spiritual zeal (Hebrew 10:25).
• Intentional contemplation - Consciously and purposely "set your mind on things that are above" (Colossians 3:2), defending against "nonproblems" of the world that deaden spiritual senses.

Thought-Provoking Question: Identify one practical step you can take this week to move from a "perfunctory" faith to one that is more genuine.

Section Three: Below, I have included some examples of perfunctory religious behavior to compare with yourself. How many can you identify with?

• Making your petitions or saying prayers "automatically" or without any thought.
• Attending religious services by force of habit, compared with a desire to worship and/or connect with others.
• Telling someone "I'll pray for you" without any intention of doing so.
• Utilizing faith to judge others while ignoring your own shortcomings, which is noted in the Bible (see: Proverbs 28:13; Matthew 7:3-5; 1 Corinthians 11:31). 

Thought-Provoking Question: Can you think of examples in the Bible where people's actions differed from their words?

Conclusion:

In this study we have found that it is possible to practice an insincere religion of simply "going through the motions," or a "perfunctory religion." We've defined it, seen some symptoms of it, and were given some suggestions on how to get things back on track.

Hopefully this study will help you identify what causes this, understand the threat it poses, a follow a faith that is spirited, authentic, and acceptable to God.

Check For Understanding: 

• How would you define "perfunctory religion" in your own words?
• In what ways can perfunctory religion impact an individual's personal spiritual growth?
• How might the modern emphasis on material wealth and career success contribute to perfunctory religious practice?
• Can someone be deeply religious and still have perfunctory elements to their faith? Why or why not?

I hope that this condensed study format serves to motivate and inspire you to incorporate additional activities, methods, and reflections in deepening your understanding and enjoyment of God's Word, the Bible. 

I'm excited for our next Bible study, and eagerly look forward to our next meeting!

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle

Many Faiths Exist, but Only One True Savior

"If you believe what you like in the gospel, and reject what you don’t like, it is not the gospel you believe, but yourself."  - Augustine of Hippo, one of the most important Church Fathers of the Latin Church in the Patristic Period (354 AD-430 AD)

We at The Coffee House Bible Ministry are well aware of the perplexity many have regarding the Gospel and religion in general. As such, I thought this would make a good talking point for our discussion, at present. 

Perhaps it would be a good idea to first submit this idea for your consideration: "Although many religions exist as man's attempt to reach God using works and rituals, the Gospel is God's distinctive act of reaching man through grace."

It would be useful to briefly analyze the fundamental differences between the Gospel and religion, beginning with religion:

• Religion is human-centered. Based on this, religion suggests a system of rules, traditions, and moral codes that must be observed in order to earn salvation or approval from a higher power. Its main focus is on what "I must do."
• Religion results in doubt. Because it is contingent on human capability, a person is left in doubt, never knowing if they have done all they can to satisfy God. 
• Religion is fueled by anxiety. It is often driven by a fear of punishment and a desire for self-governance and the current situation.
• Religion offers outside change. Conscientiously following religious laws may lead to "external" changes in behavior, but it neglects the "internal" nature.

Let's now turn our attention to the Gospel:

• The Gospel centers on God's work. The Gospel, or "good news," conveys that salvation is a gift received through grace, and not gained through good works. Its main focus is on what "Jesus has done."
• The Gospel leaves no room for uncertainty. Since it is based on Christ's finished work at the cross, salvation assures those who follow the Gospel of their relationship with God.
• The Gospel is founded on gratefulness. It is driven by a joyful gratitude in response to the unconditional love of God.
• The Gospel offers inner conversion. The power of the Gospel produces a profound personal transformation, often called a "new birth."

As you can see, there are fundamental differences between religion and the Gospel. Only the Gospel, however, offers an exclusive claim regarding the unparalleled path to salvation found only in Jesus Christ:

• The Gospel offers the sole path to salvation. Contrary to other religions that present multiple approaches to God, this perspective maintains that Jesus is the "one way, the truth, and the life," and the exclusive path to God.
• The Gospel highlights God's proactive role. Although religion represents humanity searching for God, the Gospel manifests God's initiative to find us.
• The Gospel draws a distinction between humility versus pride. The Gospel brings about a humble and confident joy because it is not based on individual merit. Whereas religion can cause either pride (for those standing on their mountaintop) or despair (for those grappling with disappointment).

I genuinely hope this brief summary furnishes you with some basic knowledge of the disparities between religion and the Gospel, motivating you to pursue further study into this subject.

Scripture: John 1:16–17; Romans 3:20; Galatians 1:6–9; Galatians 2:16; Philippians 3:8–9

Prayer: "Dear God, thank you for the glorious gospel of your grace through Jesus Christ, and for the hope, salvation, and new life that comes from your finished work on the cross. May your truth renew us and your love be revealed through us today, in Your name. Amen."

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

~Eve

Weekend Message | Is God a Safe Place for You? | Beth Moore | Safe Harbor Part 1

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It's always our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This weekend, we start a new series by American evangelist and author Beth Moore. In this session, Beth Moore explores the concept of God as a "safe place" by comparing hiding from God with hiding in God, suggesting that while the world presents many dangers, faith offers a haven.

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Scriptural References: Psalm 31:19-32:11, Psalm 62:7-8, Colossians 3:1-4, Psalm 91:1-4, Hebrews 6:13-20, Galatians 2:20

The message recognizes that suffering occurs even for believers, framing the Christian journey as a high-stakes adventure, but in the end emphasizes finding peace through trust in a loving Heavenly Father.

Core concepts presented in this teaching lesson are:

• Hiding from God vs. hiding in God
• The reality of suffering
• Finding peace in trials
• Overcoming fear

Find a comfortable spot and spend a little time with Beth Moore this weekend, won't you? Watch and learn from this Spirit-filled teacher of the Word. It's definitely worth the time!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Living With an Eternal Purpose (Psalm 90)

"For a small reward, a man will hurry away on a long journey; while for eternal life, many will hardly take a single step."  - Thomas à Kempis, German-Dutch Catholic canon regular of the Augustinians and the author of "The Imitation of Christ" (1380-1471)

Many of us are living life just spinning our wheels without a clear plan after the end of our temporary and fleeting lives. Psalm 90 contemplates the themes of our mortality, God's timeless nature, and intentional living with an eternal goal. 

The authorship of this psalm has traditionally been assigned to Moses, who wrote it from the perspective of Israel's wanderings. This period of roaming was characterized by the brevity of life and the consequences of sin.

Before going further, I would strongly encourage you to read Psalm 90. Having a good idea of what Moses is speaking about will help your comprehension of the subject and aid in its application to your own life.

In Psalm 90:1-11, Moses begins his prayer (psalm) by drawing a distinction between between God and humanity. This first section discusses the eternal God and human frailty. Read Psalm 90:1-2 and answer the following questions:

• What is the significance of God being our "dwelling place" in all generations?
• The psalm conveys the nature of God's existence as "from everlasting to everlasting." How does reflecting upon God's eternal nature affect your view on your own life and the rest of the world?

The second section discusses human weakness and sin. First, read Psalm 90:3-6 and answer the following question:

• Compared to God's eternity, Moses describes humanity as brief and delicate. How do the images he provides help us understand the shortness of our lives?

Next, read Psalm 90:7-11 and answer the following questions:

• Verse 8 states that, "You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence." What does this verse teach us about the holiness of God and the way He sees our sin?
• Psalm 90:1-11 connects human mortality directly to God's judgment on sin. How does understanding the significance of sin affect how you face each day?

The third section presents a prayer for wisdom and favor. Despite the brevity of life and God's holiness, Moses looks to prayer, not to escape this reality, but to find purpose within it. Read Psalm 90:12-17 and answer the following questions:

• It is highly likely that the most famous verse from this psalm is verse 12, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." What is meant by "to number our days," and how do we gain wisdom from this?
• This psalm transitions from lament (expressing deep sorrow or grief) to a request for mercy. What does Moses ask for in verses 13-15?
• In the last verse, Moses prays, "establish the work of our hands for us-yes, establish the work of our hands." What is the importance of this repeated plea? How does God's favor provide enduring and significant meaning to our efforts?

Psalm 90 serves as a reality check of our own mortality and the end result of our sin, but it is not a psalm of hopelessness. It is a powerful prayer of an individual whose hope is fixed not in the temporal (earthly) but in the eternal, everlasting God.

Finally, think about your work or daily efforts. How can you devote your work to the Lord so that he may establish (confirm) it and give it eternal meaning?

 

Prayer: "Dear God, You are our eternal dwelling place, and we are only temporary. Teach us to live with purpose, striving for Your steadfast love every day. Gratify us, and bless the work of our hands with your mercy, and for Your glory. Amen."

Grace be unto you,

Lamai

Video Lesson | Are You Blind to Your Sin?

In this short video lesson, Dr. Jeff Louie, Th.M. and Ph.D. from Dallas Theological Seminary and Associate Professor at Western Seminary in Santa Clara, California, takes us deeper into the subject of repentance. 

Here, he explores three subtle but serious types of sin that often go unnoticed in our spiritual lives:

👁️ Blindness to our inner flaws

🪞 Hidden attitudes masked by surface-level behavior

💔 Hardness of heart & desensitization to sin

© Radical Honesty

Scriptural References: 📖 Matthew 7 : 3, Ephesians 4 : 17–20, and more guide us toward the kind of change that truly reflects life in Christ.

Jesus calls us to more than discipline—He calls us to transformation. 💥

💬 Are you ready to confront what’s beneath the surface? Are you blind? Are you hiding? Are you blind to yourself? Are you desensitized?

If you want to follow Christ, it's not just about praying more while letting these things slide by. It's about really changing and transforming the inner self through the mercy and the power of God.

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Walking By Faith | Forgiveness Enables the Fear of the Lord

"But what is this fear of the Lord?  It is that affectionate reverence, by which the child of God bends himself humbly and carefully to his Father’s law."  - Charles Bridges, Anglican preacher and theologian (1794-1869)

The "fear of the Lord" is a response to God's grace and mercy, in particular, the forgiveness of sins. Forgiveness is a must-have for a restored relationship with God. When we are forgiven, we are delivered from the bondage of sin and death; obstacles to intimacy with God.

It is important to emphasize that forgiveness is an act of God's grace, and it is a gift that enables us to live a life of joyful devotion to God. However, this gift of forgiveness does not give us the go-ahead to to commit more sin. It instead provides a deep, motivating gratitude to lead a godly life.

Let's now clarify what is meant by the "fear of the Lord." Contrary to what many think, it's not a debilitating terror of Him but rather a deep and humble respect for His holiness, power, and authority.

When all is said and done, the fear of the Lord is the proper, worshipful response to recognizing one's own sinfulness in the light of God's boundless mercy. This has beneficial results for believers, such as:

• Recognizing God's supreme power and holiness: Knowing God's character and power inspires respect, not terror. Through God's grace, his greatness is made visible.
• Loving compliance: It is a dutiful or child-like fear that loves and honors the Father, making us intimidated of offending Him, not out of trepidation, but out of a desire to cooperate with God's will.
• Detestation of evil: This reverential, or respectful fear motivates a person to turn away from evil and strive for understanding.

What's more, having acquired a restored relationship with God through forgiveness, believers are compelled to glorify God through service. This is a joyful privilege, not a burdensome obligation! This service encompasses:

• Reverence and devotion: A heart surrendered to God.
• Living a life of service: Serving God by demonstrating love and compassion to others, especially the disadvantaged, underserved, underrepresented, and oppressed.
• Loving obedience: Living a lifestyle that is pleasing to God. That is, with our whole heart, not as a way to earn forgiveness, but in response to having received it.

In conclusion, God's forgiveness is the spark that transforms a heart from one that is fearful of retribution or that of assumptive mercy to one that is filled with "worshipful admiration" and a hearty willingness to serve.

Scripture: Job 28:28; Psalm 33:8; Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 1:7; Proverbs 14:26

Prayer: "Dear Lord, the fear of You is the beginning of wisdom. Create in me a pure heart that respects Your holiness and power, that I may trust in You above all else and live a life that is true to Your name. Amen."

Sincerely with the Grace of God,

Sloane

Weekend Message | Becoming Who We Are - Session 5 of 5 | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It's always our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This weekend, we complete a 5-part series by American evangelist and author Beth Moore. These are full presentations of one of her teaching sessions, not video clips, so be prepared to receive lots of great information!

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

In this final session, Beth tells us that although this series is coming to an end, "there is still work to be done. Learning to 'become who we are' is a life-long commitment, because there is always going to be an 'impostor' in our lives." 

This "impostor" wants to hide that part of our natural man that wants to spring up, or arise from time to time, causing new circumstances, situations, temptations, or whatever else it might be. And they can return furiously!

There is so much more great teaching included in this finale that you don't want to miss. Make yourself comfortable and spend a little time with Beth Moore this weekend, won't you? It's definitely worth the time!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Effective Prayer Aligns Our Hearts with God's

"We are trying not so much to make God listen to us as to make ourselves listen to Him; we are trying not to persuade God to do what we want, but to find out what he wants us to do."  - William Barclay, Church of Scotland minister, and Professor of Divinity and Biblical Criticism at the University of Glasgow (1907-1978)

Many pray under the misconception that prayer changes things. This misunderstanding focuses the power on the act of praying itself, instead of the one who is being prayed to.

In reality, the power is in God, with prayer being the manner by which we invite him to act and come together in spirit. Placing our primary focus on prayer rather than the God who hears and reacts to us, can transform it into a superstitious ritual, at the expense of a true connection with Him.

Effective prayer is grounded in understanding that it's a conversation with God that aligns our hearts with His will. Let's examine what this looks like when we earnestly put it into practice.

1. Draw near to God in faith

• Trust in God's desire to act. The foundation of prayer is to believe that God hears you and that "he rewards those who earnestly seek him." - Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)
• Pray without doubting. "Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." - Mark 11:24 (NIV)
• If you struggle with unbelief, be transparent with God and ask him to help you with it. "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" - Mark 9:24 (NIV)

2. Yield control of your life to God's will and wisdom

• Seek God's glory, not your own desires. "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures." - James 4:3 (NIV) The most effective prayers are those that are in line with God's perfect will.
• Submit to God's plan. Like Jesus prayed in Gethsemane, sometimes the most effective prayer is to submit to God's will, though it is difficult: "yet not my will, but yours, be done." - Luke 22:42 (NIV)

3. Prioritize a God-centered life and loving others well

• Confess your sins. Unconfessed sin is a hindrance to prayer (Psalm 66:18 - NIV). Confessing your sins and rejecting immoral behavior allows God to hear you, forgive your sin, and heal your life (2 Chronicles 7:14 - NIV).
• Humble yourself. "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble" (James 4:6 - NIV). Humble prayer acknowledges your dependence on God.
• Forgive others. If you pray with unforgiveness in your heart, your heavenly Father will not forgive you (Mark 11:25–26 - NIV). Make amends with others before worshiping and praying (Matthew 5:23–24 - NIV).

Some essential elements of a more powerful prayer life also include: 

• Heartfelt commitment: This means that prayers should be sincere and from the heart, rather than being indifferent and weak. Effective prayer is often tied to its passion and intensity.
• Determination: Press on even when prayers aren't immediately answered. Jesus encouraged unceasing prayer, so keep asking, seeking, and knocking. Matthew 7:7 (NIV)
• Gratitude and Thankfulness: Come before God with an attitude of gratitude for all He has already done and what He is doing. Thankfulness helps with peace of mind - Philippians 4:6 (NIV)
• Faith and Expectation: Pray believing that God can and will answer. Submit your petition, believe you have received it, and it will be yours. - Mark 11:24 (NIV)
• Prayer from Scripture: Pray using the Bible. You can pray through a psalm, use Scripture to direct your requests, or ask God to help you better understand His Word.
• An intimate association: Regard prayer as a conversation, not a monologue. Pray with the same honesty and sincerity as you would have with a close friend or spouse. 

Some practical steps you can incorporate into your daily prayer life are: begin each day with prayer, pray for others, be honest with God, make a conscious effort to turn away from sin, end your day with prayer, keep a prayer journal to record your prayers and God's responses.

Effective prayer is based on a foundation of faith, righteousness, and in sync with God's will, necessitating sincerity, persistence, and humility. Developing a powerful prayer life involves an unceasing, relational conversation with God that is heartfelt, honest and indebted.

Scripture: Psalm 100:4; Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; 1 Timothy 2:1

Prayer: "LORD, fill me with your Holy Spirit, that I may pray not just with my own words, but with a spiritual understanding of what you desire. Help me to be quiet and listen for your voice, knowing that our conversation involves both of us. Amen."

May God bless you always,

Liana

Bible Studies To-Go | The Kingdom of God: A Present Reality and a Future Hope

"Greatness in the kingdom of God is measured in terms of obedience." - John Stott, British Anglican pastor and theologian (1921-2011)

The ©Bible Studies To-Go series presents abridged Scripture studies that are tailored for the contemporary believer who desires to enhance their Bible learning, but is limited by a demanding daily routine. 

Our concise studies focus on themes, topics, and in some cases are even developed by questions we gather from our work with others. In-depth Bible studies can easily be obtained from other sources, if one prefers that.

Opening Prayer: "God, we are grateful to be here together. Please speak to us through your Word and help us to listen with open hearts. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Background Information: The idea of the Kingdom of God is a central message throughout the Bible, and was at the core of Jesus' ministry. "Kingdom of Heaven" was used by Matthew out of respect to Jewish customs and to avoid the use of God's name directly. Both are equivalent.

The kingdom is not specified as being situated in the physical world, but rather as the dynamic and supreme authority of God, initiated by Jesus and revealed through his life, teachings, and miracles. Related scriptures are: Psalm 103:19 (NIV); Mark 1:14-15 (NIV); Matthew 12:28 (NIV)

Topic for Study: The concept of the Kingdom of God. 

As mentioned above, the principle of the Kingdom of God is a central idea throughout the Bible, and was essential to the ministry of Jesus. For example:

• In Matthew 3:2 (NIV), John the Baptist announces the immediacy of the "kingdom of heaven."
• Jesus launched his public ministry with the message, "The time has come... The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!" - Mark 1:15 (NIV)
• In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, he instructed his disciples to emphasize this reality, saying, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." - Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

Thought-Provoking Question: What are some common misunderstandings you have heard about the Kingdom of God?"

Section One: The Bible informs us that the Kingdom of God is both in the present moment and a future hope. In other words, it is "already" present now, but "not yet" fulfilled, as seen below. 

The Kingdom is already here as demonstrated in:

• Jesus' presence - Luke 17:21 (NIV)
• Jesus' demonstration of power - Luke 11:20 (NIV)
• A spiritual rebirth - John 3:3 (NIV)
• One's inner transformation - Romans 14:17 (NIV) 

The Kingdom is not yet complete: 

• Matthew 6:10 (NIV) - Jesus taught his disciple to pray for the kingdom to "come" and for God's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.
• Matthew 13:24-30, 47-50 (NIV) - The final separation of the righteous and wicked will occur at the end of the age as portrayed in the parables of the wheat and tares and the fishnet.
• The full establishment of the kingdom will occur upon the return of Jesus. - Revelation 11:15 (NIV)

Thought-Provoking Question: How does understanding the kingdom of God as "already" and "not yet" affect your view of everyday life and the future?

Section Two: Parables were used by Jesus to illustrate the Kingdom of God, utilizing everyday images to reveal its nature.

• Matthew 13:44-46 (NIV) - The parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl underscore the tremendous worth of the kingdom, requiring total commitment.
• Matthew 13:31-33 (NIV) - The parables of the mustard seed and yeast demonstrate that the kingdom begins small but develops into something immense and powerful.
• Mark 4:26-29 (NIV) - The parable of the growing seed highlights that God is the one who starts and produces this growth.

Thought-Provoking Question: How do these parables provide encouragement for spreading the gospel and spiritual leadership, especially when the results are not immediately visible?

Section Three: Being a citizen in the Kingdom involves a transformation of values and obedience to God. We are asked to testify to Christ's kingship by personifying kingdom principles in our daily lives, such as service, mission, and love.

• Matthew 28:18-20
• Acts 1:6-8
• John 13:34-35

Thought-Provoking Question: How can our actions and attitudes reveal God's kingdom in our families, workplaces, and communities?

Conclusion:

What is the Kingdom purpose? All Kingdom citizens are entrusted to proclaim the gospel and live righteously, exhibiting "righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit." - Matthew 24:14 (NIV); Romans 14:17 (NIV)

Key Question: "How can I access the Kingdom of God?" Access to the Kingdom requires a self-effacing (humble) and submissive attitude, rather than temporal (worldly) success. This means that one must:

• Be born again - John 3:3-5 (NIV)
• Repent and believe - As John the Baptist preached - Matthew 3:1-2; Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3 (NIV) and Jesus stated - Matthew 4:17; Mark 1:15 (NIV)
• Accept it like a child - Mark 10:13-16 (NIV)
• Give precedence to it - Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

Checking for Understanding:

• What is the Kingdom of God? What is the difference between the "Kingdom of God" and the "Kingdom of Heaven?"
• Define the "already" but "not yet" concept of the Kingdom of God.
• What must a person do to enter the Kingdom of God?

I hope that this condensed study format serves to motivate and inspire you to incorporate additional activities, methods, and reflections in deepening your understanding and retention of God's Word, the Bible. 

I'm excited for our next Bible study, and eagerly look forward to our next meeting!

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle

The Apparent Absence of God

"If God is silent, there is a reason. Because He saw that you could withstand an even bigger revelation."  - Oswald Chambers, early-twentieth-century Scottish Baptist evangelist and teacher (1874-1917)

What believer hasn't experienced God's silence at one time or another, especially during a time of trouble? Without question, it can be a very unsettling experience. But as will be seen, the Bible offers perspective and encouragement regarding this experience.

Scripture confirms that God going silent is not an indication of his absence, instead it is an opportunity for deeper trust, patience, and reflection on His character. Let's first consider the lived experiences of some biblical figures who endured this.

• David, given that he was described as "a man after God's own heart," cried wretchedly to God in his feelings of abandonment.
• Job, after a period of immense struggle, sought clarity from God, who kept quiet for a considerable time.
• The span of silence between the Old and New Testament lasted about 400 years without any new prophetic messages. 
• Even Jesus himself experienced the agony of God's silence on the cross.

Do these incidents prove that God shuns, rejects, or ignores the supplications of those who pray to Him in their darkest hour? Of course not! We can learn several lessons from God's silence if we pay close attention.

 

For example, it can teach us patience and the significance of waiting for God's perfect timing (Isaiah 40:31; Psalm 40:1-2). Silence can be a request to be still and grow in intimacy with God (Psalm 62:5; Habakkuk 2:20).

Additionally, these periods of stillness can strengthen faith by encouraging dependence on God's known character and past faithfulness in lieu of immediate feelings (Hebrews 13:5; Romans 8:38-39).

In Silence, a novel by Shūsaku Endō, a character confronts the apparent silence of God during intense persecution. Near the end of his suffering, he hears a voice respond, "I was not silent. I suffered beside you."

While God's silence can be deeply worrying, we can find comfort in bible verses such as Hebrews 13: 5 and Matthew 28:20, which promise that God is always with us. Psalm 62:5 inspires waiting in silence, and to remember that God's ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).

So, how can you react to the times when God is silent? You can:

• Continue to pray and vocalize your burdens to God.
• Hold fast to God's Word for truth and guidance.
• Call to mind God's past faithfulness in your life.
• Worship to focus on God's supremacy.
• Trust in God's perfect timing and submit to His will.

Questions for Personal Reflection and Application:

1. When have you experienced a time when God seemed silent in your life?
2. How did that silence affect your faith, and what did you learn from it?
3. What is a question you have for God, and how can you prepare to honestly bring that question to Him?

Scripture: Joshua 1:9; Job 30:30; Psalm 22:1-2; Psalm 93:1; Isaiah 40:28

Prayer: "Dear God, I confess that my heart grows restless, and my mind becomes weary when answers don't come quickly. Please forgive my doubt, fear, and anxiety, and strengthen my belief. Amen."

In God's name,

Amy

Weekend Message | Becoming Who We Are - Session 4 of 5 | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It's always our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This weekend, we continue a 5-part series by American evangelist and author Beth Moore. These are full presentations of one of her teaching sessions, not video clips, so be prepared to receive lots of great information!

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

This time in Session 4, Beth teaches us to embrace the goodness of our limitations because it vastly increases our confidence. Generally speaking, our limitations are good. They're God ordained and built-in! 

How good are they? For instance, they keep us needing Jesus, instead of trying to be like Him. They keep us needing others, instead of becoming our own little, isolated islands. And, importantly, they keep us humble.

Humility is a good thing. And if we're willing, our limitations keep us learning, because we realize what we don't know, and what we need to know. And, again, if we are willing, our limitations keep us achieving.

There is so much more great teaching included in this message that you won't want to miss it. Make yourself comfortable and spend a little time with Beth Moore this weekend, won't you? It's definitely worth the time!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Hypocrisy and Pride: A Double-Edged Sword

"It is common for those that are farthest from God, to boast themselves most of their being near to the Church."  - Matthew Henry, British Nonconformist and Presbyterian minister (1662-1714)

Jim Jones, a self-proclaimed cult leader, built the Peoples Temple along with a life of deception. He diverted his followers' money while manipulating them in his cult. In the end, over 900 of his followers died as the result of a forced mass suicide at Jonestown, Guyana in 1978.

This unfortunate incident is an extreme example of how hypocrisy and pride, if allowed to thrive, can result in catastrophic consequences. To aid in our discussion of these, let's first examine what they are.

• Hypocrisy is defined as the difference between one's public image and their true nature, a display of virtue that conceals an insincere or immoral heart.
• Pride, a form of self-worship, is often the underlying cause of this deception.

Using scriptural examples, we can learn how to identify these sins (hypocrisy and pride) in our lives and strive for humility. Let's start by first examining hypocrisy, which is, as we will see, just a hollow façade concealing a person's inner moral emptiness with an outward appearance of righteousness. 

Jesus himself harshly rebuked the religious leaders of his day for their hypocrisy, providing purposeful illustrations of its nature, as in:

• Matthew 7:3-5 - Jesus uses the embellished imagery of a person with a large "plank" in their own eye trying to remove a tiny "speck" of sawdust from someone else's eye to illustrate the hypocrisy of focusing on the minor faults of others' while ignoring one's own much larger shortcomings.
• Matthew 23:25-28 -  Jesus admonishes the Pharisees and teachers of the law for their hypocrisy, comparing them to cups and tombs that are clean on the outside but full of greed, self-indulgence, and inner wickedness. He encourages them to first cleanse the inside of their hearts to become truly righteous, instead of just maintaining a beautiful outward appearance.

Thoughts to Reflect On (using the Bible references given above):

1. What does the imagery of "whitewashed tombs" teach us about the heart of a hypocrite?
2. What is the main idea of the "log and speck" lesson? What message does this convey regarding the connection between pride and judgement?

Now, let's move on to the nature of pride. The Bible directly teaches that pride is detestable to the Lord, and paves the way to destruction. C.S. Lewis called pride "the complete anti-God state of mind." Here are a few examples:

• Proverbs 16:5 (NIV) - This verse points out that God finds pride in the heart detestable and promise that these sorts of people will answer for their arrogance. 
• Proverbs 16:18 (NIV) - This verse cautions that excessive arrogance and a haughty attitude can lead to ruin and downfall. It emphasizes the danger of self-confidence that becomes an inflated ego, which can result in significant physical or spiritual damage. 
• Proverbs 16:19 (NIV) - This verse underscores the value of humility and the negative consequences of arrogance. It suggests that it is more beneficial to empathize with the oppressed and be humble than to associate with the proud, especially if that association involves unfair or unlawful personal benefit.

Thoughts to Reflect On (using the Bible references given above): 

1. As stated by these verses, what is God's view of a proud heart?
2. How does the warning "Pride goes before destruction" in verse 18 reveal itself in people's lives?

We've now seen some scriptural causes and consequences of hypocrisy and pride. The Bible also shares some ways to remedy them, such as veering away from both through sincere humility and repentance. 

In this manner, we recognize that real value is not derived from the praise of others but from the grace of God, as shown in:

1. James 4:6-10 (NIV) - This passage is a strong encouragement for believers to reject pride and embrace humility, leading to a restored relationship with God.
2. 1 John 1:9 (NIV) - This verse highlights that God's character of faithfulness and justice provides assurance of forgiveness and cleansing for those who humbly acknowledge their sins. 

Thoughts to Reflect On (using the Bible references given above): 

1. What core distinction does John derive from 1 John 1:9?
2. How does obedience to God and resisting the devil relate to overcoming hypocrisy and pride?

In general, it can be said that hypocrisy and pride are like a double-edged sword. Both are involved in self-glorification, either by claiming recognition for God's blessings or by misrepresenting a false image to the world.

The sole remedy is to redirect attention from ourselves to God and others. We must show humility, thus allowing God's grace to reveal and cleanse our "inner" life so that our "outer" life can evolve into an authentic representation of His character.

Prayer: "Dear God, I confess my own hypocrisy and pride, and ask for Your forgiveness. Open my eyes to see Your truth, so that I may constantly seek it and be protected from my own self-deception. Amen."

Grace be unto you,

Lamai

Bible Studies To-Go | Spiritually Complete in Christ

"You will never know the fullness of Christ until you know the emptiness of everything else." - Charles H. Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

The ©Bible Studies To-Go series presents abridged Scripture studies that are tailored for the contemporary believer who desires to enhance their Bible learning, but is limited by a demanding daily routine. 

Our short studies focus on themes, topics, and in some cases are even developed by questions we gather from our work with others. More detailed Bible studies can easily be obtained from other sources, if one prefers that.

Study Prayer: "Dear Lord, we know that all wisdom and understanding come from you. Please grant us your wisdom as we read your Word, to avoid dependency on our own understanding. Help us discern your truth and be transformed by what we learn. In Your name, Amen."

Background Information: In Colossians 2:10, Paul was addressing the believers in the church at Colossae, a city in modern-day Turkey. He wrote this encouraging letter from prison to counter a specific false teaching, or heresy, that was threatening their faith.

Topic for Study: Spiritual fulfillment in Jesus Christ. 

In the passage mentioned above, the focal point is on how believers are made complete in Christ. This is a state of spiritual fulfillment and wholeness that is found exclusively in Him, who is the head of all spiritual authorities. 

These authorities can be individuals or institutions holding divinely-delegated power and the right to guide, teach, and govern in religious or spiritual matters. Regardless, Jesus Christ has sovereign authority and lordship over the church and the cosmos. 

Thought-Provoking Questions: What is the central message of  Colossians 2:10? What does it mean for believers to be "complete in Him?"

Study the above questions carefully. You may want to write your thoughts down to help you stay on task and limit diversions. There are no "right" or "wrong" answers here, just be upfront.

Below, I have provided some scripture passages that are associated with our topic of discussion. You will find these related verses will help to clarify some of the points raised in the discussion.

• John 1:16
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Ephesians 1:21
• Colossians 1:16-17
• 1 Peter 3:22

** Read Colossians 2 prior to answering the following questions!**

 

Contextual Questions: 

1. What traditions or practices were the Colossian believers being pressured to adopt that Paul argues against by emphasizing their completeness in Christ?
2. How does understanding that the Colossians were a mix of Jewish and Gentile Christians help explain the pressure they were facing to adopt new rituals and beliefs?

Evidence-Based Questions:

1. How does Paul's declaration that believers "are complete in Him" directly contradict the specific legalistic, ritualistic, and ascetic teachings that were troubling the Colossian church (Colossians 2:8, 2:16–23)?
2. How does Christ's victory over the rulers and authorities (Colossians 2:15) provide reassurance to the Colossians that they are secure in their union with Christ and do not need to seek protection from false religious practices?
3. Given that the Colossians were warned against practices involving angel worship (Colossians 2:18), how does Colossians 2:10's emphasis on Christ as head over all rule and authority address this specific heresy?

Questions for Personal Insight/Application: 

1. How does a correct understanding of Colossians 2:10 impact the Christian's daily life? 
2. If a believer is already "complete in him," how should this truth influence their attitude toward spiritual striving, legalism, and reliance on external rituals?
3. How does the concept of being "complete in him" challenge the modern idea that personal fulfillment and meaning must be found outside of a relationship with Christ?

Food For Thought:

• How does knowing that you are "complete in Him" impact your daily life as a Christian?

I hope that this condensed study format paves the way for more time to incorporate additional activities, methods, and reflections in deepening your understanding and retention of God's Word, the Bible. 

I'm excited about our next Bible study, and eagerly look forward to our next meeting!

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle

Do You Take God Seriously?

"The farther we get from God, the more the world spirals out of control."  - Billy Graham, American evangelist (1918-2018)

Previously, we discussed our reliance on God for strength, purpose, and our abilities in life. In short, we are totally dependent on Him for our existence, spiritual power, and our potential to achieve things of spiritual significance.

Now, using Psalm 76, we shall take a concise look at God's greatness and power, His control of all situations, and how He is a sovereign, formidable defender who hands down judgment on the enemies of His people as a protector.

The psalm itself is a song of worship praising God's power and wisdom. Though not explicitly stated, the majority of scholars agree that it observes the miraculous defeat of the Assyrian army during their attack on Jerusalem in 701 B.C.

If you'd care to examine it, this important event is chronicled in 2 Kings 19 and Isaiah 37. To help provide clarity, I've furnished a short outline of Psalm 76 below.

• God's earthly dwelling place (vv.1-3)
• God is all-powerful; man is not (vv. 4-6)
• The justice of the Lord (vv. 7-9)
• An appeal to worship and vows (vv. 10-12)

Living in today's world is not easy. We need all the assistance we can get to help us live life to the fullest. This psalm especially teaches us that God is on our side in the battles of life. 

It teaches us that nothing man can do frightens God in the least. God, who is always in control, can readily humble the most powerful earthly rulers. Nothing compares to the sovereignty of God as so many have found out the hard way.

Some points for consideration and discussion:

1. Psalm 76 highlights God's power over human rulers and military might. How does the psalm describe the ineffectiveness of leaning on earthly strength (vv. 5–6)? What modern-day "superpowers" do people trust in, and how does this passage challenge that trust?
2. The psalm says, "It is you alone who are to be feared. Who can stand before you when you are angry?" (v. 7). What is the difference between a "healthy fear" of God and being "afraid" of him? How can both motivate a person toward him?
3. Psalm 76 is thought to be a hymn celebrating a specific victory for Israel. How does remembering God's past acts of deliverance, both individually and collectively, help us trust him in both present and future struggles?

Amazingly, even the wicked motives and malice of God's enemies ultimately serve to glorify Him by creating an opportunity for God to demonstrate His power and justice. His actions also encourage us to honor, respect, and demonstrate steadfastness toward Him, as well.

Scripture: Psalm 46:10; Psalm 135:6; Proverbs 16:33; Isaiah 45:5-7; Romans 8:28

Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me always be aware of how much I need You in every situation. Open my ears to hear what You say and grant me the grace to trust Your wisdom and timing, even during periods of hardship. Amen."

Grace be unto you,

Charlotte

Weekend Message | Becoming Who We Are - Session 3 of 5 | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It has always been our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This weekend, we continue a 5-part series by American evangelist and author Beth Moore. These are full presentations of one of her teaching sessions, not video clips, so be prepared to receive lots of great information!

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Here in Session 3, Beth teaches us what it means to deceive, to be deceived, and how the difference between a liar and a deceiver often comes down to success rate. But more importantly, she says, "We faced a more personal truth: we all carry an imposter within us!"

Rather than shaming that part of ourselves, let's lean into the understanding that wrestling is a form of intimacy. We see Jacob engage in his first honest fight in Genesis 32:24-32, a powerful moment not because it gave him all the answers but because, in Beth's words, "It brought him into contact, face to face with God." 

We discover a powerful truth: when we build relationships from our false selves, we often get trapped because those relationships can't truly hold the real us. So, let's break that pattern by remembering the three perimeters: Authenticity with all, transparency with most, and intimacy with some.

These guidelines will help us stay true to who we are becoming, heed the inner warnings, and avoid falling into old traps. It's not about having it all figured out—just about showing up more honestly, together.

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

In What Do You Base Your Self-Worth?

"You say, 'If I had a little more, I should be very satisfied.' You make a mistake. If you are not content with what you have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled."  - C.H. Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

A large proportion of people's self-worth is often influenced by external forces such as social approval, engagement in meaningful activities like work or academics, appearance, and the successes of their family and children. 

Without question, all of these are certainly good and valid reasons. But allow me to add a point to ponder, if you will. For the believer in Jesus Christ, we need to remember that our true worth cannot be determined by earthly standards.

Rather, it is found in the transformative power of seeking first the kingdom of God. In other words, our true worth or self-value should instead come from a deep, spiritual relationship with Christ, which truly supplies life-changing power.

This is a directive to prioritize spiritual growth over material success, acknowledging that only by knowing and abiding in Him can one build a life of lasting significance. Here are some bible verses to reinforce our discussion:

• Philippians 3:7-9 - points out the Apostle Paul's perspective of his worldly accomplishments as rubbish compared to knowing Christ.
• Matthew 6:19-21 - motivates the pursuit of spiritual wealth over earthly wealth, accenting or stressing that your heart follows your treasure.
• Colossians 3:1-2 - advises focusing on divine affairs in contrast to earthly ones.
• Romans 12:2 - implores for transformation through the renewal of the mind, rather than compliance to the world.
• Ephesians 2:10 - maintains that believers are God's creation, intended for good works.

Essentially, this message is to remind all of us to shift our perspective from external results to internal spiritual reality, recognizing that true identity and security lies in Christ, not material wealth, possessions, and worldly goods. 

Scripture: Proverbs 3:13–15; John 10:10; Romans 8:38–39; Colossians 2:9–10; 1 Peter 2:9

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for showing my true value through your unconditional love and grace through the eternal truth that I am your creation and your beloved child. Amen."

May God bless you always,

Liana

Bible Studies To-Go | Jesus, A Physician for Spiritual Sickness

"Let us understand that God is a physician, and that suffering is a medicine for salvation, not a punishment for damnation.." - Augustine of Hippo, theologian, writer, preacher, rhetorician, and bishop (354-430 A.D.)

The ©Bible Studies To-Go series presents abridged Scripture studies that are tailored for the contemporary believer who desires to enhance their Bible learning, but is limited by a demanding daily routine. 

Our short studies focus on themes, topics, and in some cases are even developed by questions we gather from our work with others. Detailed Bible studies can easily be obtained from other sources, if one prefers that.

The topic for study presently is: Jesus, the healer of spiritual sickness. Mark 2:13-17 will serve as our focal point. It would be most advantageous to read this passage before proceeding with the subject.

In the verses mentioned above, the center of attention is on Jesus' mission to heal spiritual sickness, that is, those who are spiritually broken and need salvation. Thus establishing Himself as the Great Physician.

Thought-Provoking Questions: Do you see yourself as spiritually "sick"? Or, do you consider yourself spiritually "healthy"? 

Consider these questions carefully. You may want to write your thoughts down to help you stay on task and limit diversions. There are no "right" or "wrong" answers here, just be upfront.

Below, I have provided some scripture passages that are associated with this topic of discussion. You will find these related verses will help to clarify some of the points raised in the discussion.

• Isaiah 55:7
• Matthew 9:13
• Luke 5:32
• Luke 15:7 
• 1 Timothy 1:15

Mark 2:13-17 draws attention to Jesus' invitation of Levi, a tax collector, and his following meal with other tax collectors and sinners. This important event challenges the social and religious norms of the time and makes known a core aspect of His mission.

Contextual Questions:

1. Who was Levi in the passage and why were tax collectors despised in that society?
2. Who were the Pharisees and what was their primary concern?

Evidence-Based Questions:

1. What does the call of Levi reveal about Jesus' mission and character?
2. What made Jesus's acceptance of people deemed "unclean" so offensive to the religious establishment?
3. How does the metaphor of a doctor for the sick explain Jesus' mission to call sinners to repentance?
4. In Luke 5:32, Jesus says "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners..." What is meant by His statement, given that all have sinned?

Questions for Personal Insight: 

1. In what ways does engaging in genuine fellowship with non-believers, as Jesus did, serve as a form of evangelism?
2. How does religious pride prevent us from seeing our own sinfulness and need for Jesus?
3. Why is the comprehension of Jesus as a physician for the spiritually ill, rather than the morally upright, crucial for spiritual growth?

Food For Thought:

• This passage calls us to maximize our abilities by moving beyond familiar boundaries. How can you show Christ's love to someone who may not feel accepted or seen by the church?

I trust that this condensed study format opens the way for more time to incorporate additional activities, methods, and reflections in deepening your understanding and retention of God's Word, the Bible. 

I'm excited about our next Bible study, and eagerly look forward to our next meeting!

Closing Prayer: "Dear Lord, we are thankful for the insights and truths shared today. Thank You for Your faithfulness and for the way Your Word transforms us. May You guide us and keep us safe. In Jesus' name, Amen."

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle