Bible Study

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Reference:  I Corinthians 9:24-27

Topic:  “Mind over Matter”

The concept of “mind over matter” originated in the 1960s and early 70s.  The definition has varied in interpretation.  But the overall thought is that the mind has more power than the body.  If used properly, the mind will help you overcome bodily aliments.  It takes a strong person to endure pain and persecution for the sake of glorifying God. 

(II Tim 2:3 – “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”)

Endure - sugkakopatheo (soong-kak-op-ath-eh'-o):

The lesson aim is to encourage believers to stay strong.  More importantly, we must walk the walk as we talk the talk.  We must be clear on what our goals are as runners for

Christ.  Each believer will be held accountable to the LORD for his/her actions.

(Read Luke 16:1-2)

Account – logos (log'-os):

Steward - oikonomeo (oy-kon-om-eh'-o):

Thus, we have the responsibility to condition our hearts and minds for the challenges we will face as disciples of Jesus Christ.  We must use our training to help us in our performance.  Paul presents the same motivation to the church at Rome. (Romans 12:1-2)

Paul uses the example of runners participating in a race to describe the course of action one must take as a soldier for the Lord.  Ultimately, Paul encourages the church to run the race with winning in mind.  Just as athletes must prepare for the race so must the believer.  We must condition ourselves mentally to obtain our incorruptible crown.  We must learn to resist the temptations that come when trying to “do the right thing”.    If we’re going to win this race and fight, we must follow Paul’s example in verse 27:

“I keep under my body”

“Bring it into subjection”

Paul’s concludes his ministerial career on a high note that embodies these instructions to the church: 2 Tim 4:7-8 – “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

Paul’s final statement to the church focuses on the misunderstanding of how we struggle to maintain control of our thoughts. 

Bible Study

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Reference:  Romans 12:2

Topic:  “A Change Must Take Place”

How long does it take for change to occur?  Many still marvel at the change that butterflies go through.  Metamorphosis is still a mystery.  It takes a caterpillar three weeks to be transformed into a butterfly.  Transmutation is “change into another nature, substance, form, or condition”.  A great example of this amazing occurrence is the butterfly.  As believers we go through a spiritual transformation.  However, no one can really determine how long this process takes from start to finish.

The lesson aim is to identify the phases of transformation.  More importantly, we must be willing to complete the process and fulfill our God-given purpose.  (Hebrews 12:1-3) 

Each time we revisit this text a deeper understanding is revealed by God.  There seems to be a misunderstanding regarding the process of spiritual transformation.  We , the believer, must submit ourselves to the course of action designed to rescue us from bondage.  The first phase of the transformation process is to “present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God”.  (Read: Romans 6:13, 16, 19)

Key word: servants- doulos (doo'-los) a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency):

The second phase of the transformation process is to “be not conformed to this world”.  (Read: II Corinthians 6:14-18; Ephesians 2:2-3)

Paul challenges the church to consider moving away from their ways of living.  He charts a course to transformation by transitioning from “doctrine to duty”.  Transformation requires a willing spirit on the part of the one being transformed.  (Matthew 26:41)  Of course there is no timetable associated with transformation.  But, we must remember Paul’s testimony to Timothy, II Timothy 4:7 – “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:”  Paul concludes if we’re going to complete this process we must be intentional and focused.

Paul’s final statement to the church is to “be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind”.  The renewing of the mind is third phase of the transformation process. 

Bible Study

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Reference:  Romans 7:21

Topic:  “Practice What You Preach”

Do you know anyone that practices the “law”?  Attorneys, judges and other legal practitioners are expected to obey the very same law they have vowed to uphold.  Those who practice or enforce the law, but disregard the same law are considered “hypocrites”. (hupokrites (hoop-ok-ree-tace'); an actor under an assumed character (stage-player), i.e. (figuratively) a dissembler ("hypocrite").  Every medical professional has taken an oath to “practice medicine honestly”.  The “Hippocratic oath - requires a new physician to swear upon a number of healing gods that he will uphold a number of professional ethical standards.  Thus, we have adopted best practices that safeguard our commitment to do the right thing.  However, how does this same commitment solidify our vow to obey God’s Word?

The lesson aim is to reaffirm and reevaluate our understanding of “the law of God”.  More importantly, can we articulate with clarity the ongoing struggles we face as HIS “witnesses”?  Paul’s experiences have brought him to this conclusion, “for I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not”.  Paul goes a step further and describes his struggle as a war between his flesh and his mind. (7:23; Gal. 5:17-18)

Paul’s overall concern for the Roman congregation is that they hadn’t identified the biggest hindrance that impedes their progress and growth in the Lord.  The presence of Evil!  Rom 7:21: “I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. (KJV)  Rom 7:21-22 – “I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. (NLT) Rom 7:21-22 –“It happens so regularly that it's predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up.” (from THE MESSAGE)

As a result of their lack of understanding Paul testifies about his personal struggles and experience with the same issue.  However, his confession serves as an bails bondsman to free him from the bondage sin creates for those that are “ignorant”.

(agnoeo (ag-no-eh'-o) - not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication, to ignore (through disinclination)

There are several passages of scripture that connect Paul’s observation in verse 21 that provide clarity to the saints in Corinth. (Is 6:5-8; Zech 3:1-4)  In verses 24 and 25a the apostle presents a solution to his personal struggle that can be adopted by current readers of this epistle: “Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? 25 Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.” (NLT)

Paul’s final statement to the church focuses on the misunderstanding of how we struggle to maintain control of our thoughts. 

Bible Study

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Reference:  Romans 7:14-21

Focus Verses: Romans 7:

Topic:  “I Wouldn’t Do That If I Were You”

Many of us are afraid to admit we have struggles.  What we define as struggles may be misconstrued as day to day troubles and trials.  Job confirms, “man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble” (trouble: (ro'-ghez); commotion, restlessness (of a horse), crash (of thunder), disquiet, anger:) Thus, we engage in daily battles to do the right thing and make the best choices.  Our primary goal should be to do what’s pleasing in God’s eyesight.

The lesson aim is to acknowledge the challenges we face to do what’s right.  More importantly, we must be transparent in our testimony regarding the fight to live a life that “holy and acceptable unto God”.  Paul tries to explain how the flesh and the spirit are in constant battle for control over our minds. 

According to the text, Paul educates the church on the realities of living in Christ.  Moreover, Paul reveals the impact and results of sin in the life of a believer.  Paul uses himself as an example to show that the real struggle is in the mind.  The real battle between our flesh and the spirit has a tendency to bring out the best and worst in all of us.  Paul is not specific as to what he shouldn’t have done, but he points to the origin of his challenges.  In Romans 8:3-5 Paul also connects our struggle in the flesh to the redemptive work of Christ.

As Paul builds the bridge from the Old to the New Testament he concludes that breaking the “law” was common practice. In verse 14 Paul defuses the argument that sin has more power over him than the spirit. (read verse 14 and highlight the key words)

[Law – (nom-os); to parcel out, through the idea prescriptive usage, regulation, used by Moses and the Gospels, a principle.]

[Spiritual (pnyoo-mat-ik-os'); non-carnal, i.e. (humanly) ethereal (as opposed to gross), or (daemoniacally) a spirit (concretely), or (divinely) supernatural, regenerate, religious:]

[Carnal (sar'-kee-nos); similar to flesh, i.e. (by analogy) soft:]

What are your current struggles?  How are you fighting the temptations in your life?  Is God pleased with your lifestyle?

Paul’s final statement to the church focuses on the misunderstanding of how we struggle to maintain control of our thoughts. 

Bible Study

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Reference:  St. Matthew 26:36-46

Focus Verses: Matthew 26:39-45

Topic:  Praying Power

Many of us have been raised in God’s House.  We have some idea of why we assemble ourselves together, but the continuity and consistency of our gatherings have not been solidified.  We have learned that the primary purpose of our gathering is to worship God.  However, Jesus declares the primary purpose of the God’s house is to serve as a place of prayer. [Reference: Isaiah 56:7; Matthew 21:12-13] Consequently, we have changed the intent and purpose for the house of God.  In addition the primary responsibility of the believer is to pray.

The lesson aim is to highlight Jesus’ efforts to provide for us an example of the solidarity of prayer to the Father.  More importantly, prayer is designed to connect the believer to the will of the Father and in response the Father will reveal HIS will to the believer. 

According to the text, Jesus has reached the end of HIS journey.  He marks this special event by returning to the place it all began, the garden.  He also invites members of HIS inner circle to accompany HIM to this grand finale.  Jesus comes to a place of serenity to share HIS inner thoughts and feelings with the Father.  The text brings to light the Lord’s position on how to access the power of God.  The context of each record recorded in the gospels is to show the importance, intensity, and integrity of praying.

What was the condition of Jesus’ mind and heart as HE approached God?

All accounts of Jesus’ weakest moments reveal the weight of bearing the sins of this world.  [Reference: Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22;39-46; John 18:1-2]  Matthew’s records give more detail than the other writers.  Matthew gives more attention to the details of Jesus’ conversation with the Father and His exchange with the disciples.

Mark 14:34-36

And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch. 35 And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. 36 And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt. (KJV)

Luke 22:42-44

Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. 43 And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him.

44 And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. (KJV )

Final thoughts:  What will it take for the church to increase its efforts to pray?

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

 

Date:   Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Series: Staying Strong in the Midst of Your Storm

Focus Verses:   Job 1:21

Today’s Discussion:    “The Lord Gives and Takes”

The most important question for believers is “from whence cometh our help”  According to Psalms 121:1, our help comes from the LORD.  The “help” to which I am referring can be defined in so many different ways.  Abraham testifies that God will provide.  The bible confirms that God will supply all our needs according to HIS riches in glory. (Philippians 4:19)

The lesson aim is to confirm that God is our greatest resource.  More importantly, God never comes up short or falls behind on his commitment to provide for us. (Numbers 23:19)

Job’s testimony following the multiple calamities that took him by surprise bears witness of the grace of God toward us.  We are benefactors of God’s grace and mercy.  We have not earned this right but it has been afforded to us by God.  Job’s reaction and response to all that occurred should inspire every reader to reevaluate our relationship to the “Holy and Almighty God”.  Job identifies to acts of God that are governed by HIS sovereignty:

“the Lord gave and the Lord taketh away” KJV

“the Lord gave me what I had, and the Lord has taken it away” NLT

“God gives, God takes.” MSG

“The Lord gave these things to me, and he has taken them away.” NCV

What can we take from this passage of scripture that can be applied to everyday life?

Final thought:  God wants to have constant habitation with us and not just unscheduled visitations. 

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

 

Date:   Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Series: Staying Strong in the Midst of Your Storm

Reference Scripture:  Daniel 6:16-22)

Focus Verses: Daniel 6:22     

Today’s Discussion:    “I’m Still Here”

When there is a major catastrophe, many are presumed dead before rescue attempts are launched.  Too often we make assumptions within our minds before we express them to others. With thoughts of doubt and hopelessness, we make comments like “there’s no way that anyone could have survived” that storm.  Our expressions of disbelief are driven by our lack of faith in God’s ability to perform miracles. 

The lesson aim is to show that our deliverance comes from God.  More importantly, we must also note that God’s deliverance of HIS children is a result of them trusting in HIM. [Question: Where is your faith?]

On the hills of God’s unquestionable power of over fire, Daniel finds himself in a similar dilemma.  There are times in our lives when God permits calamity, tragedy or tribulations to occur.  However, God does not give us any fore-warning as to when these trials may come.  Thus, we must always be prepared to “endure hardship as a good soldier”.  Nevertheless, no matter when these trials befall us, we must not loose FAITH in God.    According to James 1:2-4, he urges his readers to “consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. 3 You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors”. (from THE MESSAGE)

Daniel’s greatest test came at a time when things seemed to be going well.  The same culprits that challenged him are still operating in our world today; envy, jealousy, and pride.  Nonetheless, Daniel validates the psalmist’s testimony of God’s divine intervention in our lives. (Read: Psalms 121)  The writer’s intent is to show us that our Father’s “creation is before us”; HIS ‘eyes are upon us”; HIS “presence is beside us”; and HIS “care is around us”.  Daniel 6:16-21 embodies the very proof that we need to persuade non-believers to put their faith in God so that others can believe.  Prayer and worship are the foundation of Daniel’s relationship with God.  Thus, when trials come he is not moved to FEAR. 

Daniel 6:20-22

20 And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?  21 Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live for ever.  22 My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me:

Daniel’s response to the king’s cry is the very testimony we need to prove that our God is able.