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New Testament

The Book of Romans

God’s Good, Pleasing, and Perfect Will – Part Four

May 12, 2014

God’s Good, Pleasing, and Perfect WillRomans 12:1-2Theme: Trust and obey.This week’s lessons teach us that our happiness is to be found in following God’s will.
LessonWe need to prove by our experience that the will of God is indeed what Paul tells us it is, that is, that it is good, pleasing, and perfect. We need to check it out. Moreover, it is by checking it out that we will begin to find out what it actually is.

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The Book of II Corinthians

The God Who Provides – Part One

May 19, 2014

It is not difficult to find examples of people who have allowed the love of money to ruin their spirituality and to nullify the effect of their witness. History is full of such examples, and they come from our time also. In the book of Joshua we are told of the sin of Achan that caused the defeat of the armies of Israel at Ai.

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Lost Sheep – Part Three

May 23, 2014

Matthew 18:10-14Theme: Shepherding.In this week’s lessons we see God reclaiming the lost. LessonWe concluded yesterday’s lesson with the question, “Why should we focus on angels when it is God who is our Savior?” The parable tells us many important things about God.

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The Book of Matthew

People of the Kingdom – Part One

July 16, 2014

THEME: Kingdom of Heaven
The treasure that we seek is found in the Son of God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:44-46
 

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

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The Book of Matthew

People of the Kingdom – Part Two

July 17, 2014

THEME: Kingdom of Heaven
The treasure that we seek is found in the Son of God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:44-46
 
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

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The Book of Matthew

People of the Kingdom – Part Three

July 18, 2014

THEME: Kingdom of Heaven
The treasure that we seek is found in the Son of God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:44-46
 
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

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The Book of Matthew

People of the Kingdom – Part Four

July 21, 2014

THEME: Kingdom of Heaven
The treasure that we seek is found in the Son of God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:44-46
 
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

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The Book of Matthew

People of the Kingdom – Part Five

July 22, 2014

THEME: Kingdom of Heaven
The treasure that we seek is found in the Son of God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:44-46
 
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

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The Book of Matthew

God’s Kingdom Consummated – Part One

July 23, 2014

THEME: A Warning
Jesus’ parable tells us that the final separation of the saved from the unsaved is awning.
 
SCRIPTURE

Matthew 13:47-52
 
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind.

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The Book of Matthew

God’s Kingdom Consummated – Part Two

July 24, 2014

THEME: A Warning
Jesus’ parable tells us that the final separation of the saved from the unsaved is awning.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:47-50
 
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind.

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The Book of Matthew

God’s Kingdom Consummated – Part Three

July 25, 2014

THEME: A Warning
Jesus’ parable tells us that the final separation of the saved from the unsaved is awning.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:47-50
 
“Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish.

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The Book of Matthew

God’s Kingdom Consummated – Part Four

July 28, 2014

THEME: A Warning
Jesus’ parable tells us that the final separation of the saved from the unsaved is awning.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:47-50
 
“Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish.

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The Book of Matthew

God’s Kingdom Consummated – Part Five

July 29, 2014

THEME: A Warning
Jesus’ parable tells us that the final separation of the saved from the unsaved is awning.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:47-52
 

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind.

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The Book of Matthew

The Death of John the Baptist – Part Two

July 31, 2014

THEME: John’s Trust
In this week’s study we see a contrast in character.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:1-2
 
At that time wHerod the tetrarch heard about the fame of Jesus, and he said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist.

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The Book of Matthew

The Death of John the Baptist – Part Three

August 1, 2014

THEME: John’s Trust
In this week’s study we see a contrast in character.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:3-5
 
For Herod had seized John and bound him and put him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because John had been saying to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.&rdqu

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The Book of Matthew

The Death of John the Baptist – Part Four

August 4, 2014

THEME: John’s Trust
In this week’s study we see a contrast in character.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:6-8
 
But when Herod’s dbirthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company and pleased Herod, so that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask.

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The Book of Matthew

The Death of John the Baptist – Part Five

August 5, 2014

THEME: John’s Trust
In this week’s study we see a contrast in character.
 
SCRIPTURES
Matthew 14:10-12
 
He sent and had John beheaded in the prison, and his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother.

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The Book of Matthew

The Feeding of the Five Thousand – Part One

August 6, 2014

Theme: Withdrawal of the King
This week we see how God can use us, despite our empty hands.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:13-21
 
Now when Jesus heard this, fhe withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns.

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The Book of Matthew

The Feeding of the Five Thousand – Part Two

August 7, 2014

Theme: Withdrawal of the King
This week we see how God can use us, despite our empty hands.
 
SCRIPTURE 
Matthew 14:13-14
 
Now when Jesus heard this, fhe withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns.

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The Book of Matthew

The Feeding of the Five Thousand – Part Three

August 8, 2014

Theme: Withdrawal of the King
This week we see how God can use us, despite our empty hands.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:15
 
Now when it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; hsend the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.

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The Book of Matthew

The Feeding of the Five Thousand – Part Four

August 11, 2014

Theme: Withdrawal of the King
This week we see how God can use us, despite our empty hands.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:16-17
 
But Jesus said, “They need not go away; iyou give them something to eat.” They said to him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.”

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The Book of Matthew

The Feeding of the Five Thousand – Part Five

August 12, 2014

Theme: Withdrawal of the King
This week we see how God can use us, despite our empty hands.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:18-21
 
And he said, “Bring them here to me.” Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass, and taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing.

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The Book of Matthew

Faith and Little Faith – Part One

August 13, 2014

Theme: Peter’s Walk 
This week we see how to turn failing faith to robust faith. 
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:22-36
 

Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds.

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The Book of Matthew

Faith and Little Faith – Part Two

August 14, 2014

Theme: Peter’s Walk
This week we see how to turn failing faith to robust faith. 
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:22-27
 
Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds.

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The Book of Matthew

Faith and Little Faith – Part Three

August 15, 2014

Theme: Peter’s Walk 
This week we see how to turn failing faith to robust faith. 
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:28-31
 
And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came t

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The Book of Matthew

Faith and Little Faith – Part Four

August 18, 2014

Theme: Peter’s Walk
This week we see how to turn failing faith to robust faith. 
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:28-31
 
And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesu

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The Book of Matthew

Kosher Hearts – Part One

August 20, 2014

Theme: True Religion 
This week we see the pitfall that is self-righteousness
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:1-11
 

Then Pharisees and fscribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, “Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders?

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The Book of Matthew

Kosher Hearts – Part Two

August 21, 2014

Theme: True Religion 
This week we see the pitfall that is self-righteousness
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:1-7
 
Then Pharisees and fscribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, “Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders?

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The Book of Matthew

Kosher Hearts – Part Four

August 25, 2014

Theme: True Religion 
This week we see the pitfall that is self-righteousness
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15 : 12-20
 
Then the disciples came and said to him, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?” He answered, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will

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The Book of Matthew

Kosher Hearts – Part Five

August 26, 2014

Theme: True Religion 
This week we see the pitfall that is self-righteousness
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15: 18-20
 
But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.

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The Book of Matthew

Little Children and a Young Man – Part Two

October 30, 2014

Theme: Riches and Blessing
This week’s lesson teaches us how sacrifice brings blessing.
 
SCRIPTURE

Matthew 19:16-22
 
And behold, a man came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” And he said to him, “Why do you ask me

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The Book of Matthew

Little Children and a Young Man – Part Three

October 31, 2014

Theme: Riches and Blessing
This week’s lesson teaches us how sacrifice brings blessing.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 19:23-28
 

And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven.

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The Book of Matthew

Little Children and a Young Man – Part Four

November 3, 2014

Theme: Riches and Blessing
This week’s lesson teaches us how sacrifice brings blessing.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 19:28-30

 
“Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes

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The Book of Matthew

Little Children and a Young Man – Part Five

November 4, 2014

Theme: Riches and Blessing
This week’s lesson teaches us how sacrifice brings blessing.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 19:28-30
 

Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard – Part Four

November 10, 2014

Theme: Mercy and Grace 
This week’s lesson teaches us the reasons why we should serve the Lord.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:3-7

 
And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, and to them he said, ‘You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will gi

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The Book of Matthew

On the Way to Jerusalem – Part One

November 12, 2014

Theme: Christ, the Servant 
This week’s lesson encourages us to examine Christ’s ultimate act of service for us.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:17-19
 
And as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said to them, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem.

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The Book of Matthew

On the Way to Jerusalem – Part Three

November 14, 2014

Theme: Christ, the Servant 
This week’s lesson encourages us to examine Christ’s ultimate act of service for us.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:25-28
 
But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.

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The Book of Matthew

On the Way to Jerusalem – Part Four

November 17, 2014

Theme: Christ, the Servant 
This week’s lesson encourages us to examine Christ’s ultimate act of service for us.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:28
 
even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

 
LESSON

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The Book of Matthew

On the Way to Jerusalem – Part Five

November 18, 2014

Theme: Christ, the Servant 
This week’s lesson encourages us to examine Christ’s ultimate act of service for us.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:28-34
 
even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
And as they went out of Jerich

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The Book of Matthew

The Triumphal Entry – Part One

November 19, 2014

Theme: Jesus as King 
This week’s lesson raises and answers the question, “Is Jesus really God and King?”
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:1-11
 
Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village in

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The Book of Matthew

The Triumphal Entry – Part Two

November 20, 2014

Theme: Jesus as King 
This week’s lesson raises and answers the question, “Is Jesus really God and King?”
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:1-5
 
Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village in

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The Book of Matthew

The Triumphal Entry – Part Three

November 21, 2014

Theme: Jesus as King 
This week’s lesson raises and answers the question, “Is Jesus really God and King?”
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21 :6-11
 
The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them.

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The Book of Matthew

The Triumphal Entry – Part Four

November 24, 2014

Theme: Jesus as King 
This week’s lesson raises and answers the question, “Is Jesus really God and King?”
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:10-11
 
And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this?” And the crowds said, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Na

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The Book of Matthew

The Triumphal Entry – Part Five

November 25, 2014

Theme: Jesus as King 
This week’s lesson raises and answers the question, “Is Jesus really God and King?”
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:10-11
 
And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this?” And the crowds said, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Na

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The Book of Matthew

The Cleansing of the Temple – Part One

November 26, 2014

Theme: Christianity and Commercialism 
In this week’s lesson we see Jesus’ approach to commercialism and materialism in his church.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:12-17
 
And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and

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The Book of Matthew

The Cleansing of the Temple – Part Two

November 27, 2014

Theme: Christianity and Commercialism 
In this week’s lesson we see Jesus’ approach to commercialism and materialism in his church.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:12-13
 
And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the

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The Book of Matthew

The Cleansing of the Temple – Part Three

November 28, 2014

Theme; Christianity and Commercialism 
In this week’s lesson we see Jesus’ approach to commercialism and materialism in his church.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:12-13
 
And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the

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The Book of Matthew

The Cleansing of the Temple – Part Four

December 1, 2014

Theme: Christianity and Commercialism 
In this week’s lesson we see Jesus’ approach to commercialism and materialism in his church.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:14-15
 
And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple, and he healed them.

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The Book of Matthew

The Cleansing of the Temple – Part Five

December 2, 2014

Theme: Christianity and Commercialism 
In this week’s lesson we see Jesus’ approach to commercialism and materialism in his church.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:16-17
 
and they said to him, “Do you hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes;have you never read,

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The Book of Matthew

Religion Without Fruit – Part One

December 3, 2014

In the Old Testament Israel is often compared to a fig tree or a vine, and judgment on Israel is compared to its destruction (see Psalm 105:33; Jeremiah 8:13; Hosea 2:12; 9: 10-16; Micah 7:11-6). Jesus had used this image himself in a parable recorded in Luke 13:6-9. In that story, at an earlier point in his ministry, Jesus told about a fig tree that was not producing fruit which the owner was therefore going to cut down.

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The Book of Matthew

Religion Without Fruit – Part Two

December 4, 2014

Jesus’ cursing of the fig tree seems entirely out of character at best and petulant or mean at its worst. We must not think that Jesus was simply angry at the tree and struck out against it like a child might throw down a toy and break it just because he can’t make it work. Jesus was not being petulant.

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The Book of Matthew

Religion Without Fruit – Part Three

December 5, 2014

I do not think that Jesus’ disciples got the point of what he was saying at this time, because if they had understood him, it would have been natural for them to have asked something about the failures of the Pharisees or the shallow nature of their religious practices. They didn’t do this. Instead, they were amazed at the speed with which the fig tree withered and asked him to explain it: “How did the fig tree wither so quickly?” (v.20).

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The Book of Matthew

Religion Without Fruit – Part Four

December 8, 2014

When Jesus entered the city on what was to be his last full day of unhindered teaching he was approached by the chief priests and elders of the people who demanded of him: “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?” (v.23). Mark expands the list to say that Jesus was approached by “the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders” (Mark 11:27).

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The Book of Matthew

Religion Without Fruit – Part Five

December 9, 2014

You have listened to the testimony of John and the claims of Jesus. You have seen the evidence for his claims. Will you acknowledge that he is the Son of God and the Savior and follow him as your Lord? Will you become a Christian? If you are hesitating, let me tell you a little bit more about the authority of Jesus Christ.

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The Book of Matthew

The Wicked Trustees – Part Two

December 18, 2014

Theme: God’s Justice
This parable warns that we must act now, in the day of grace.
 
SCRIPTURE 
Matthew 21:33-34
 
“Hear another parable. There was a master of a house who planted vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a winepress in it and built a tower and leased it to tenants, and went into another country.

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The Book of Matthew

The Wicked Trustees – Part Three

December 19, 2014

Theme: God’s Justice
This parable warns that we must act now, in the day of grace.
 
SCRIPTURE 
Matthew 21:35-39
 
And the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. Again he sent other servants, more than the first. And they did the same to them.

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The Book of Matthew

The Wicked Trustees – Part Four

December 22, 2014

Theme: God’s Justice
This parable warns that we must act now, in the day of grace.
 
SCRIPTURE 
Matthew 21:40-42
 
When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” They said to him, “He will put those wretches to a miserable death and let out the vineyard to oth

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The Book of Matthew

The Wicked Trustees – Part Five

December 23, 2014

Theme: God’s Justice
This parable warns that we must act now, in the day of grace.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:43-46 
 
Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people producing its fruits.

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The Book of Matthew

Come to the Banquet – Part One

December 24, 2014

From time to time in our study of the parables I have noted that a particular parable is difficult to interpret, and have mentioned several ways the details of the story could be taken. That problem does not exist with the parable of the wedding banquet, however.

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The Book of Matthew

Come to the Banquet – Part Two

December 25, 2014

The unique element in the parable before us is the willful refusal of those who were invited. It was not that they could not come. Rather they would not. The reason for their refusal is not spelled out, but it is suggested in the way the servants were treated.

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The Book of Matthew

Come to the Banquet – Part Three

December 26, 2014

Some who are invited to the gospel banquet do not openly express their hatred of the one who gives it, but they make excuses. As the parable says, they go off “one to his field, another to his business” (v.5). Jesus elaborates that point in Luke’s version of the parable. There he says, “But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me’

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The Book of Matthew

Come to the Banquet – Part Four

December 29, 2014

Half the parable (Matthew 22:1-7) is about those who despised the king and would not come to the banquet. But there is a second half (vv. 8-14), which tells of those who did come. The king instructed, “Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find” (v. 9). In Luke that is elaborated to show how those persons were drawn from the lower ranks of life.

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The Book of Matthew

Come to the Banquet – Part Five

December 30, 2014

At the point at which the king welcomes his replacement guests, the parable seems to be over. But it is not, and I am glad, because the Lord goes on to give a much-needed warning in the account of the man who came to the feast without a wedding garment.

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Wedding Banquet – Part One

December 31, 2014

Theme: Reactions to God’s Invitation 
This week we learn about the indifferent, even arrogant way men and women respond to God
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:1-14
 
And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying,  “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, &

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Wedding Banquet – Part Two

January 1, 2015

Theme: Reactions to God’s Invitation 
This week we learn about the indifferent, even arrogant way men and women respond to God
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:1-7
 
And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying,  “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, &n

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Wedding Banquet – Part Three

January 2, 2015

Theme: Reactions to God’s Invitation 
This week we learn about the indifferent, even arrogant way men and women respond to God
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:1-7
 
And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying,  “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, &n

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Wedding Banquet – Four

January 5, 2015

Theme: Reactions to God’s Invitation 
This week we learn about the indifferent, even arrogant way men and women respond to God
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:8-9
 
Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy.

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Wedding Banquet – Part Five

January 6, 2015

Theme: Reactions to God’s Invitation 
This week we learn about the indifferent, even arrogant way men and women respond to God
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:11-14
 
“But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment.

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The Book of Matthew

Three Attempts to Trap Jesus – Part One

January 7, 2015

Theme: Jesus, the Final Authority, the Bible, His Perfect Word
This weeks lesson teaches us that no one can fool Jesus because he is God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:15-22
 
Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words.

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The Book of Matthew

Three Attempts to Trap Jesus – Part Two

January 8, 2015

Theme: Jesus, the Final Authority, the Bible, His Perfect Word
This weeks lesson teaches us that no one can fool Jesus because he is God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:15-22
 
Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words.

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The Book of Matthew

Three Attempts to Trap Jesus – Part Three

January 9, 2015

Theme: Jesus, the Final Authority, the Bible, His Perfect Word
This weeks lesson teaches us that no one can fool Jesus because he is God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:23-33
 
The same day Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection, and they asked him a question, saying, “Teacher, Moses said, ‘If a man dies having no children, his brother must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother.’ Now there were seven brothers among us.

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The Book of Matthew

Three Attempts to Trap Jesus – Part Four

January 12, 2015

Theme: Jesus, the Final Authority, the Bible, His Perfect Word
This weeks lesson teaches us that no one can fool Jesus because he is God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:29-33
 
But Jesus answered them, “You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God.

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The Book of Matthew

Three Attempts to Trap Jesus – Part Five

January 13, 2015

Theme: Jesus, the Final Authority, the Bible, His Perfect Word
This weeks lesson teaches us that no one can fool Jesus because he is God.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:34-40
 
But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together.

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The Book of Matthew

A Question for His Questioners – Part One

January 14, 2015

Theme: Jesus: Son of David, Son of God
This weeks lesson proves the authenticity of Scripture as it proclaims Jesus as Lord and King,
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:41-46
 
Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them a question, saying, “What do you think about the Christ?

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The Book of Matthew

A Question for His Questioners – Part Two

January 15, 2015

Theme: Jesus: Son of David, Son of God
This weeks lesson proves the authenticity of Scripture as it proclaims Jesus as Lord and King,
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:43-45
 
“He said to them, How is it then that David, speaking by the Spirit, calls him Lord?

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The Book of Matthew

A Question for His Questioners – Part Three

January 16, 2015

Theme: Jesus: Son of David, Son of God
This weeks lesson proves the authenticity of Scripture as it proclaims Jesus as Lord and King,
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:41-44
 
Now while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them a question, saying, “What do you think about the Christ?

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The Book of Matthew

A Question for His Questioners – Part Four

January 19, 2015

Theme: Jesus: Son of David, Son of God
This weeks lesson proves the authenticity of Scripture as it proclaims Jesus as Lord and King,
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:44
 
“The Lord said to my Lord,
‘Sit at my right hand,
until I put your enemies under your feet'”?

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The Book of Matthew

A Question for His Questioners – Part Five

January 20, 2015

Theme: Jesus: Son of David, Son of God
This weeks lesson proves the authenticity of Scripture as it proclaims Jesus as Lord and King,
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 22:43-46
 
He said to them, 
“How is it then that David, in the Spirit, calls him Lord, saying,

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The Book of Matthew

Seven Woes on False Religion – Part One

January 21, 2015

Theme: Be Real 
This week’s lesson explains Christ’s judgments on the Pharisees and how they apply to us today.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 23:1-12, 37-39
 
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do.

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Seven Woes on False Religion – Part Two

January 22, 2015

Theme: Be Real 
This week’s lesson explains Christ’s judgments on the Pharisees and how they apply to us today.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 24:4-12
 
But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers.

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The Book of Matthew

Seven Woes on False Religion – Part Three

January 23, 2015

Theme: Be Real 
This weeks lesson explains Christs judgments on the Pharisees and how they apply to us today
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 23:13-22
 
“But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces.

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The Book of Matthew

Seven Woes on False Religion – Part Four

January 26, 2015

Theme: Be Real 
This week’s lesson explains Christ’s judgments on the Pharisees and how they apply to us today.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 23:16-26
 
“Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘If anyone swears by the temple, it is nothing, but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.’ You blind fools!

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The Book of Matthew

Living in the Last Days – Part One

January 28, 2015

Theme: Do Not Be Alarmed 
God is in control of the world now and until the end of time
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 24:1-3
 
Jesus left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not?

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The Book of Matthew

Living in the Last Days – Part Four

February 2, 2015

Theme: Do Not Be Alarmed 
God is in control of the world now and until the end of time
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 24:23-28
 
“Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There he is!’ do not believe it.

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The Book of Matthew

Living in the Last Days – Part Five

February 3, 2015

Theme: Do Not Be Alarmed 
God is in control of the world now and until the end of time
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 24:4-8
 
And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray.

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The Book of Matthew

The Return of Jesus Christ – Part One

February 4, 2015

Theme: Always be ready to persevere 
In this week’s lesson we hear about Jesus’ discussion of the end times and how we should respond
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 24:29-35
 
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will f

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The Book of Matthew

The Return of Jesus Christ – Part Two

February 5, 2015

Theme: Always be ready to persevere 
In this week’s lesson we hear about Jesus’ discussion of the end times and how we should respond
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 24:32-35
 
“From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near.

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The Book of Matthew

The Return of Jesus Christ – Part Three

February 6, 2015

Theme: Always be ready to persevere 
In this week’s lesson we hear about Jesus’ discussion of the end times and how we should respond
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 24:32-35
 
“From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near.

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The Book of Matthew

The Return of Jesus Christ – Part Four

February 9, 2015

Theme: Always be ready to persevere 
In this weeks lesson we hear about Jesus discussion of the end times and how we should respond
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 24:29-35
 
“Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from h

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The Book of Matthew

The Return of Jesus Christ – Part Five

February 10, 2015

Theme: Always be ready to persevere 
In this week’s lesson we hear about Jesus’ discussion of the end times and how we should respond
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 24:30-35
 
“Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of

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The Book of Matthew

Keeping Watch and Being Ready – Part One

February 11, 2015

There is an important contrast between the verses we were looking at in the last study and the opening verse of the section of Matthew 24 to which we come now. It is the difference between “you know” in verse 33 and “no one knows” in verse 36. What the disciples were to know is that “when you see all these things” the end will be “near, right at the door.”

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The Book of Matthew

Keeping Watch and Being Ready – Part Two

February 12, 2015

The first story Jesus uses to emphasize the suddenness of his coming and the need to be ready for it was the destruction of the earth by flood in the days of Noah. This was a well known case of God’s judgment of wickedness in history, and it is referred to quite naturally by Old Testament prophets like Isaiah (Isaiah 54:9) and Ezekiel (Ezekiel 14:14-20) and by New Testament writers like the author of Hebrews (Hebrews 11:7) and Peter (1 Peter 3:20; 2 Peter 2:5). Jesus refers to it in verses 37-39.

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The Book of Matthew

Keeping Watch and Being Ready – Part Three

February 13, 2015

The second picture Jesus paints to describe the nature of things at his return is in verses 40 and 41, “Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.” Here the suddenness of Christ’s return introduced in the reference to the days of Noah is carried forward, but there is the additional thought of a sudden separation.

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The Book of Matthew

Keeping Watch and Being Ready – Part Four

February 16, 2015

The third of Jesus’ illustrations is of a thief breaking into a house, “But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into” (v. 43).

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The Book of Matthew

Keeping Watch and Being Ready – Part Five

February 17, 2015

Each of these pictures mentioned in Matthew 24:36-51 has been alike in stressing the sudden nature and unpredictability of Christ’s return. But each has also added its own unique elements. The picture of the flood has reminded us that many persons will be lost. The picture of the two men working in the fields and the two women grinding at the mill points to a radical separation and reminds us that we are not saved by knowing or being close to a believer.

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The Book of Matthew

The Wise and Foolish Virgins – Part One

February 18, 2015

Theme: Your neighbor may be ready for Christ’s return, but are you? 
This week’s lesson teaches personal responsibility for accepting Christ’s invitation.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:1-13
 
“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroo

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The Book of Matthew

The Wise and Foolish Virgins – Part Two

February 19, 2015

Theme: Your neighbor may be ready for Christ’s return, but are you? 
This week’s lesson teaches personal responsibility for accepting Christ’s invitation.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:1-13
 
“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegro

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The Book of Matthew

The Wise and Foolish Virgins – Part Three

February 20, 2015

Theme: Your neighbor may be ready for Christ’s return, but are you? 
This week’s lesson teaches personal responsibility for accepting Christ’s invitation.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:1-13
 
“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegro

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The Book of Matthew

The Wise and Foolish Virgins – Part Four

February 23, 2015

Theme: Your neighbor may be ready for Christ’s return, but are you? 
This week’s lesson teaches personal responsibility for accepting Christ’s invitation.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:6-13
 
But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Here is the bridegroom!

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The Book of Matthew

The Wise and Foolish Virgins – Part Five

February 24, 2015

Theme: Your neighbor may be ready for Christ’s return, but are you? 
This week’s lesson teaches personal responsibility for accepting Christ’s invitation.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:1-13
 
“Then the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegro

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Talents – Part One

February 25, 2015

Theme: Faith without works is dead. 
This weeks lessons teach us that laziness and evil behavior must not characterize Gods people
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25: 14-30
 
“For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property.

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Talents – Part Two

February 26, 2015

Theme: Faith without works is dead. 
This week’s lessons teach us that laziness and evil behavior must not characterize God’s people.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:19-30
 
“Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them.

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Talents – Part Three

February 27, 2015

Theme: Faith without works is dead. 
This weeks lessons teach us that laziness and evil behavior must not characterize Gods people
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:24-30

He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you sca

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Talents – Part Four

March 2, 2015

Theme: Faith without works is dead. 
This weeks lessons teach us that laziness and evil behavior must not characterize Gods people
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:19-30
 
Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them.

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Talents – Part Five

March 3, 2015

Theme: Faith without works is dead. 
This weeks lessons teach us that laziness and evil behavior must not characterize Gods people
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:26-30
 
But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed?

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats – Part One

March 4, 2015

Theme: Eternity in hell is no joking matter 
This weeks lessons describe the horrid nature of hell and the importance of knowing our destiny.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:31-46
 
“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him,then he will sit on his glorious throne.

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats – Part Two

March 5, 2015

Theme: Eternity in hell is no joking matter 
This weeks lessons describe the horrid nature of hell and the importance of knowing our destiny.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:37-46
 
Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink?

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats – Part Three

March 6, 2015

Theme: Eternity in hell is no joking matter 
This week’s lessons describe the horrid nature of hell and the importance of knowing our destiny.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:41-46
 
“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats – Part Four

March 9, 2015

Theme: Eternity in hell is no joking matter 
This weeks lessons describe the horrid nature of hell and the importance of knowing our destiny.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:41-46
 
“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

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The Book of Matthew

The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats – Part Five

March 10, 2015

Theme: Eternity in hell is no joking matter 
This week’s lessons describe the horrid nature of hell and the importance of knowing our destiny.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 25:45-46
 
“Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do

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The Book of Matthew

Let the Drama Begin – Part One

March 11, 2015

For twenty-five chapters, ever since the introduction of Jesus as the descendant of King David in verse 1 of chapter 1, the story of Christ’s life has been moving toward a powerful, gripping climax, which is the murder of the King followed by his resurrection. The story started slowly, but it has been building in intensity throughout the three-year ministry and has now reached the point where the final act of the drama is at hand.

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The Book of Matthew

Let the Drama Begin – Part Two

March 12, 2015

The leading figure in the plot to arrest and kill Jesus was Caiaphas, the high priest. Caiaphas had been appointed high priest by Valerius Gratus, Pilate’s predecessor, in A.D. 18, about twelve years before this. He was the son-in-law of Annas, the hereditary high priest who had served from 6-15 A.D., until the Romans deposed him.

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The Book of Matthew

Let the Drama Begin – Part Three

March 13, 2015

Jesus had come with his disciples to Bethany to stay at the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, who were his friends. They gave a supper in his honor, probably as a thank-you supper for the raising of Lazarus from the dead. It was a brave thing to do since the Sanhedrin were seeking to arrest and kill him.

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The Book of Matthew

Let the Drama Begin – Part Four

March 16, 2015

It was not merely that Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and learned from him, however. That points to what Jesus gave her, but it is only half of what was going on. Mary also gave herself to Jesus, which is what the pouring out of her expensive perfume means. Mark tells us that she broke her jar to do it (Mark 14:3).

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The Book of Matthew

Let the Drama Begin – Part Five

March 17, 2015

What a terrible thing it was to have betrayed Jesus Christ. It was, to use the words Franklin Delano Roosevelt chose to inform the American public of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, which brought the United States into World War II, “a day that will live in infamy.” Judas had spent three years in the closest possible association with the only perfect man who ever lived.

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The Book of Matthew

With Jesus in the Upper Room – Part One

March 18, 2015

Theme: Jesus is always in control. 
This weeks lessons show us the first Lord’s Supper and the events surrounding it.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:17-19
 
Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?” He sa

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The Book of Matthew

With Jesus in the Upper Room – Part Two

March 19, 2015

Theme: Jesus is always in control. 
This weeks lessons show us the first Lord’s Supper and the events surrounding it.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:23-28
 
He answered, “He who has dipped his hand in the dish with me will betray me.

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The Book of Matthew

With Jesus in the Upper Room – Part Three

March 20, 2015

Theme: Jesus is always in control. 
This week’s lessons show us the first Lord’s Supper and the events surrounding it.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:26 
 
Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.&

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The Book of Matthew

With Jesus in the Upper Room – Part Four

March 23, 2015

Theme: Jesus is always in control. 
This weeks lessons show us the first Lord’s Supper and the events surrounding it.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:26-30
 
Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” A

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The Book of Matthew

With Jesus in the Upper Room – Part Five

March 24, 2015

Theme: Jesus is always in control. 
This weeks lessons show us the first Lord’s Supper and the events surrounding it.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:31-35
 
Then Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away because of me this night.

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Alone in the Garden – Part One

March 25, 2015

Theme: The importance of prayer. 
This weeks lessons teach us from Jesus’ example how to pray.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:36-46
 
Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, “Sit here, while I go over there and pray.” And taking with him Peter and the two

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The Book of Matthew

Alone in the Garden – Part Two

March 26, 2015

Theme: The importance of prayer. 
This weeks lessons teach us from Jesus’ example how to pray.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:38-39
 
Then he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death; remain here, and watch with me.” And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, &ld

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The Book of Matthew

Alone in the Garden – Part Three

March 27, 2015

Theme: The importance of prayer. 
This weeks lessons teach us from Jesus’ example how to pray.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:39-42
 
And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.&rdq

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The Book of Matthew

Alone in the Garden – Part Four

March 30, 2015

Theme: The importance of prayer. 
This weeks lessons teach us from Jesus’ example how to pray.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:42-46
 
Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.” And again he came and found them sleeping, f

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The Book of Matthew

Alone in the Garden – Part Five

March 31, 2015

Theme: The importance of prayer. 
This weeks lessons teach us from Jesus’ example how to pray.
 
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 26:40-41
 
And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation.

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