IV.As we return to these paragraphs today, take some time to slowly and meditatively read them. Then pause for a moment and rest in that reading and hearing the words of Jesus. Now, let’s reread the first two paragraphs again … Continue reading
I.“Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Is this a question you have ever wanted to ask? To ask Jesus? To Ask God? To ask the Spirit? Or one something like it? Who can I trust to show … Continue reading
VII.As we return to this parable and look at the father, his two sons, and their home, let’s return to a question I asked earlier – “Do you identify with one character more than another?” VIII.Luke 15:11-32 (New Revised Standard … Continue reading
IV.In the Gospel of Luke we are presented three parables in sequence – “The Parable of the Lost Sheep,” (Luke 15:1-7); “The Parable of the Lost Coin,” (Luke 15:8-10); then in Luke 15:11-32 the parable we are considering this week. … Continue reading
I.We know this story by its usual name, “The Parable of the Prodigal Son.” How well does that fit the story? Does it do justice to who is presented? To what each experiences? To Jesus’ intent in telling the story? … Continue reading
VII.Let’s take notice of – Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people;once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Let those words open this passage for you, and hear how God’s people are … Continue reading
IV.Did you notice we are told to “Rid ourselves … of … so that you may grow into salvation …” As you spend time with this passage again, notice what we should “rid ourselves of …” What clues does this … Continue reading
I.Peter covers a lot of ground in this brief passage. As we begin our meditation on these words, let’s first notice the image of “a cornerstone.” What holds your attention about this stone? II.1 Peter 2:1-10 (New Revised Standard Version … Continue reading
VII.Why does James speak against “showing partiality” so strongly? I sense James wants to mount a strong campaign against such behavior. Do you get that sense from these paragraphs? As you read these words, take notice of the support he … Continue reading
IV.As you meditate on these words of James, notice again the examples he gives of “showing partiality.” See if you can imagine what it looks like for such “partiality” to be exhibited in a Christian fellowship. V.James 2:1-12 (New Revised … Continue reading