Mind Renewal in a Mindless Age — Part Five
April 30, 2014
Mind Renewal in a Mindless Age, Part 2Romans 12:1-2Theme: The Christian doctrine of man.This week’s lessons teach us what it means to be made in God’s image. Lesson
Mind Renewal in a Mindless Age, Part 2Romans 12:1-2Theme: The Christian doctrine of man.This week’s lessons teach us what it means to be made in God’s image. Lesson
Mind Renewal in a Mindless Age, Part 2Romans 12:1-2Theme: The Christian doctrine of man.This week’s lessons teach us what it means to be made in God’s image. Lesson
Mind Renewal in a Mindless Age, Part 2Romans 12:1-2Theme: The Christian doctrine of man.This week’s lessons teach us what it means to be made in God’s image. Lesson
Mind Renewal in a Mindless Age, Part 2Romans 12:1-2Theme: The Christian doctrine of man.This week’s lessons teach us what it means to be made in God’s image. Lesson
Mind Renewal in a Mindless Age, Part 2Romans 12:1-2Theme: The Christian doctrine of man.This week’s lessons teach us what it means to be made in God’s image. Lesson
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.
Lesson
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.
Lesson
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.
Lesson
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.
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.
Lesson
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.
In today’s world charity is practiced on a wide scale and is thought to be the natural product of the innate benevolence of the human spirit. Actually, that is not so.
Matthew 18:10-14Theme: Shepherding.In this week’s lessons we see God reclaiming the lost. Lesson
Matthew 18:10-14Theme: Shepherding.In this week’s lessons we see God reclaiming the lost. Lesson
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.
Matthew 18:10-14Theme: Shepherding.In this week’s lessons we see God reclaiming the lost. Lesson
Matthew 18:10-14Theme: Shepherding.In this week’s lessons we see God reclaiming the lost. LessonToday we conclude our study of the important things this parable teaches us about God.
Ephesians 5:21-33Theme: Marriage.This week’s lessons teach us that when the institution of marriage crumbles, society crumbles. Lesson
Ephesians 5:21-33Theme: Marriage.This week’s lessons teach us that when the institution of marriage crumbles, society crumbles. Lesson
Ephesians 5:21-33Theme: Marriage.This week’s lessons teach us that when the institution of marriage crumbles, society crumbles. Lesson
Ephesians 5:21-33Theme: Marriage.This week’s lessons teach us that when the institution of marriage crumbles, society crumbles. Lesson
Ephesians 5:21-33Theme: Marriage.This week’s lessons teach us that when the institution of marriage crumbles, society crumbles. Lesson
Ephesians 5:22-33Theme: Love and submission.This week’s lessons teach us the only path to marital bliss. Lesson
Ephesians 5:22-33Theme: Love and submission.This week’s lessons teach us the only path to marital bliss. Lesson
Ephesians 5:22-33Theme: Love and submission.This week’s lessons teach us the only path to marital bliss. Lesson
Ephesians 5:22-33Theme: Love and submission.This week’s lessons teach us the only path to marital bliss. Lesson
Ephesians 5:22-33Theme: Love and submission.This week’s lessons teach us the only path to marital bliss. Lesson
Matthew 19:1-12Theme: An unbreakable covenant.This week’s lessons teach us about the permanence of marriage. Lesson
Matthew 19:1-12Theme: An unbreakable covenant.This week’s lessons teach us about the permanence of marriage. Lesson
Matthew 19:1-12Theme: An unbreakable covenant.This week’s lessons teach us about the permanence of marriage. Lesson
Matthew 19:1-12Theme: An unbreakable covenant.This week’s lessons teach us about the permanence of marriage. Lesson
Matthew 19:1-12Theme: An unbreakable covenant.This week’s lessons teach us about the permanence of marriage. Lesson
THEME: Pervasive Evil
These parables show the subtlety of Satan is evil.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:24-33
THEME: Pervasive Evil
These parables show the subtlety of Satan is evil.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:24-26
THEME: Pervasive Evil
These parables show the subtlety of Satan is evil.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:31-33
THEME: Pervasive Evil
These parables show the subtlety of Satan is evil.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:31-33
THEME: Pervasive Evil
These parables show the subtlety of Satan is evil.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 13:31-33
He put another parable before them, saying,
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
THE DEATH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
THEME: John’s Trust
In this week’s study we see a contrast in character.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:1-12
At that time wHerod the tetrarch heard about the
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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
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
Theme: Peter’s Walk
This week we see how to turn failing faith to robust faith.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 14:32-36
And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased.
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?
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?
Theme: True Religion
This week we see the pitfall that is self-righteousness
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:7-11
You hypocrites!
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
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.
Theme: Care for All
In this week’s lesson we learn to desPair of no one.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:21-28
And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the
Theme: Care for All
In this week’s lesson we learn to desPair of no one.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:21-24
And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the
Theme: Care for All
In this week’s lesson we learn to despair of no one.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:25-28
But she came and knelt before him, saying, “L
Theme: Care for All
In this week’s lesson we learn to desPair of no one.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:29-30
Jesus went on from there and walked beside the
Theme: Care for All
In this week’s lesson we learn to desPair of no one.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 15:35-39
He told the crowd to sit down on the ground.
Theme: Knowing the Times
This week we see the dangers of legalism and modernism still among us.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:1-6
‘The Pharisees and Sadducees c
Theme: Knowing the Times
This week we see the dangers of legalism and modernism still among us.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:5-7
When they went across the la
Theme: Knowing the Times
This week we see the dangers of legalism and modernism still among us.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:8-11
Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked, “You of
Theme: Our Foundation
In this week’s lesson we reveal the Rock of the Church.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:13-20
“When Jesu
Theme: Our Foundation
In this week’s lesson we reveal the Rock of the Church.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16: 15-18
“But what about you?” h
Theme: Our Foundation
In this week’s lesson we reveal the Rock of the Church.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16: 17-20
Jesus re
Theme: Our Foundation
In this week’s lesson we reveal the Rock of the Church.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:17-20
“Jesus replied, “Blessed
Theme: Our Foundation
In this week’s lesson we reveal the Rock of the Church.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:17-20
“Jesus replied, “Ble
Theme: Listen to Him
In this week’s lesson we are told what to expect of God.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 17:1-13
After six days Jesus took with him
Theme: Self—Denial and Reward
In this week’s lesson we read about what an investment in Christianity entails.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:21-28
From th
Theme: Self—Denial and Reward
In this week’s lesson we read about what an investment in Christianity entails.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:22-23
Peter t
Theme: Self—Denial and Reward
In this week’s lesson we read about what an investment in Christianity entails.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:24-28
Then Je
Theme: Self—Denial and Reward
In this week’s lesson we read about what an investment in Christianity entails.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:24-28
“
Theme: Self—Denial and Reward
In this week’s lesson we read about what an investment in Christianity entails.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 16:24
Then Jesus
Theme: Listen to Him
In this week’s lesson we are told what to expect of God.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 17:1-3
After six days Jesus took with him Peter,
Theme: Listen to Him
In this week’s lesson we are told what to expect of God.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 17:4-8
Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it
Theme: Listen to Him
In this week’s lesson we are told what to expect of God.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 17:9-13
“As they were coming down the
Theme: Listen to Him
In this week’s lesson we are told what to expect of God.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 17:9-13
As they were coming down the mounta
Theme: Conquered Pride
This week we learn a lesson in humility
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:1-4
At that time he disciples came to Jesus’ and asked.
Theme: Conquered Pride
This week we learn a lesson in humility
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:1-4
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who i
Theme: Conquered Pride
This week we learn a lesson in humility
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:5-6
“And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name
Theme: Conquered Pride
This week we learn a lesson in humility
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:7-8
“Woe to the world because of the things that cause people
Theme: Conquered Pride
This week we learn a lesson in humility
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:9
“And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw i
Theme: Offenses and Forgiveness
In this week’s lesson we see a man forgiven, but unforgiving
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18: 1 5-18
“If your broth
Theme: Offenses and Forgiveness
In this week’s lesson we see a man forgiven, but unforgiving
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:19-22
Again, I tell you that
Theme: Offenses and Forgiveness
In this week’s lesson we see a man forgiven, but unforgiving
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:23-27
“Therefore, the
Theme: Offenses and Forgiveness
In this week’s lesson we see a man forgiven, but unforgiving
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:28-31
“But
Theme: Offenses and Forgiveness
In this week’s lesson we see a man forgiven, but unforgiving
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 18:32-35
“Then the
Theme: Riches and Blessing
This week’s lesson teaches us how sacrifice brings blessing.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 19:13-15
Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray.
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
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.
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
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
Theme: Mercy and Grace
This week’s lesson teaches us the reasons why we should serve the Lord.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20: 1-16
“For the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard.
Theme: Mercy and Grace
This week’s lesson teaches us the reasons why we should serve the Lord.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:1-2
“For the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard.
Theme: Mercy and Grace
This week’s lesson teaches us the reasons why we should serve the Lord.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:13-16
But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius?
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
Theme: Mercy and Grace
This week’s lesson teaches us the reasons why we should serve the Lord.
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 20:16
So the last will be first, and the first last.”
LESSON
There is one last point.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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,
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.
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.
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).
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).
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.
Theme: Christ as Judge
This week’s lesson teaches us that we hate God, and only by his grace learn to love him
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:28-32
“What do you think? A man had two sons.
Theme: Christ as Judge
This week’s lesson teaches us that we hate God, and only by his grace learn to love him
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:33-46
“Hear another parable.
Theme: Christ as Judge
This week’s lesson teaches us that we hate God, and only by his grace learn to love him
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 21:42-46
Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures:
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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’
Joy to You and MeLuke 2:8-20Theme: Rejoicing in the promise.This week’s lessons teach us that true joy is found in Christ alone.
Lesson
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.
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.
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, &
Joy to You and MeLuke 2:8-20Theme: Rejoicing in the promise.This week’s lessons teach us that true joy is found in Christ alone.
Lesson
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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?
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?
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'”?
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,
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.
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.
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.
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!
Theme: Be Real
This weeks lesson explains Christs judgments on the Pharisees and how they apply to us today
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 23:27-32
“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!
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?
Theme: Do Not Be Alarmed God is in control of the world now and until the end of time
SCRIPTUREMatthew 2:4-22
Theme: Do Not Be AlarmedGod is in control of the world now and until the end of time
SCRIPTUREMatthew 24: 23-28
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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
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.”
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.
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.
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).
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.
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
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
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
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!
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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?
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.
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?
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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
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.
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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