British-Israel and Lost Tribes Study
The British Israel Theory
The theory of ‘British Israel’ in its various forms broadly teaches that descendants of the northern tribes of Israel recovered from their Assyrian captivity (approx. 700 B.C.) and later became great nations, including, most prominently, England and America. It describes these tribes as the ‘lost ten tribes of Israel.’ It also postulates that God’s promise to David that there would always be a king on his throne ruling over Israelites was unconditional and unbroken throughout the ages, and that this promise continues to be fulfilled in today’s British monarchy. Such claims are examined below.
So where did the title ‘the lost tribes of Israel’ originate? Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary (Rev. 2003, p523) states that:
Exiles from the Northern Kingdom were scattered through the Assyrian holdings (2 Kings 17:6). Apparently, their small communities, isolated from other Jews, did not allow them to maintain much national identity. We do not know what happened to these people, thus the popular title: the lost tribes of Israel. Some may have eventually returned to their original homeland. Others may have established the basis of Jewish communities that appear in later historical records.
There are several factors that must be weighed before one accepts the claims of British-Israel as valid. A few of the more challenging factors operating against the validity of such an idea are presented below in outline form for consideration and further study.
Firstly, there is no such expression in the Bible as ‘the lost tribes of Israel,’ or ‘the lost house of Israel.’ Rather, Jesus refers in Matthew 10:6 and 15:24 to ‘the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’ In considering the context of Jesus’ use of the phrase ‘the lost sheep of the house of Israel,’ hopefully the reader will see that Jesus is simply referring to their spiritual state of lost-ness, for no issue is raised in these passages as to the location of the lost sheep. The people of Israel clearly had strayed spiritually and were therefore figuratively referred to as lost sheep. The fact of their known whereabouts is even implicit in these verses, for the disciples are sent out on a mission to them in Matthew 10:6, and in Matthew 15:24, Jesus indicates that He had been sent to them. Therefore, Israel, where Jesus ministered, was where the lost sheep of the house of Israel predominantly were. It would therefore be unsafe to take Jesus’ use of the expression ‘lost sheep of the house of Israel’ as a reference to Israeli tribes living in Britain or Europe. The 12 disciples certainly did not have time during Jesus’ short ministry for missionary journeys to such far away regions.
Secondly, bearing in mind the great destruction poured out on the northern tribes of Israel during their Assyrian captivity, and recognizing the infamous ruthlessness of the Assyrians, it does not seem realistic that some of the remnant would have become great nations in the far flung corners of the world, as the British-Israel theory goes. See, for example, Isaiah 5:13-30, 6:11-13, and Amos 9 which illustrate the great magnitude of the northern kingdom’s prophesied demise. At the hands of the Assyrians, Israel was to be left as ‘a pole on top of a mountain’ (Isaiah 30:17 & 31).
Thirdly, during Nehemiah’s time, the king of Assyria gave the Israelites a bright green light to return to their homeland. Since returning to one’s homeland is generally a person’s natural yearning, it is unlikely that many Israelites, if any, traveled elsewhere, at that time (or earlier, as the theory generally goes). It’s also important to note they would not have had to travel very far. The Assyrian empire did not extend far beyond Israel’s near neighbors. See the second article below ‘Rebuilding of Israel as one nation’ for more on this point.
Fourthly, the theory fails to pay due regard to the conditionality of the throne promise to King David. The following scripture shows that the obedience of Israel was relevant to the fulfillment of the promise:
Therefore, Lord God of Israel, now keep what You promised Your servant David my father, saying, “you shall not fail to have a man sit before Me on the throne of Israel, only if your sons take heed to their way … (1 Kings 8:25) (our emphasis)
1 Kings 9:4-9; 1 Chronicles 22:9-13 & 28:5-10; 2 Chronicles 6:16 & 7:17-22 similarly show the conditionality of God’s throne promise. Notice also Hosea 3:4 which states that the children of Israel shall dwell many days without a king. Jeremiah 13:11-27, 14:20-21, 15:1-18, 22:1-9, 39:1-15 & 52:1-11 show the consequences for Israel of breaking the condition:
The Israelites were notoriously disobedient. However, whilst their disobedience caused them to miss out on the full benefit of God’s promise to David, God was still faithful to David in fulfilling the promise. Peter, in Acts 2:29-33, interprets the throne promise to David for us, and shows us how the ultimate fulfillment of the promise to David was through Christ, the Son of David, ascending to sit at the right hand of the Father. Christ, the Son of David, was raised to rule as David did, but not over physical Israel, but rather over spiritual Israel:
Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried … Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, he foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear.
Fifthly, British-Israel proponents make much of scriptures in Genesis in which Abraham and his descendants are promised several things including being a blessing to all nations (Genesis 26:4), becoming as numerous as the stars of heaven and the sand of the sea (Genesis 22:16-18), and becoming a nation and a company of nations (Genesis 35:11). Whilst British Israelites generally see a fulfillment of these promises in the benefits Britain and the United States have brought to the world, in the vast population of the Commonwealth and the United States, and in the company of nations known as the Commonwealth of nations, Holy Scripture provides its own rather different interpretation.
Galatians 3:6-16 and Romans 4:9-22 put a whole new slant on the meaning of these prophecies contrary to that taught by British Israelites. These verses say the blessing to all nations promised to Abraham and his descendants comes through Christ, and that Abraham is a father of many nations because through his seed - Christ, people from all nations are (or will become) of the faith of Abraham. Whilst in this same sense Abraham’s descendants may become great in number, possibly ‘as the sand of the sea,’ it is also notable that there are already several references in the Old Testament describing Israel in Old Testament times as already having become as the ‘sand of the sea’ and ‘stars of heaven’ in number. See for example Deuteronomy 10:22, 1 Kings 4:20, 2 Chronicles 1:9, Nehemiah 9:23, and Isaiah 10:22.
In conclusion, given the above obstacles to the validity of the theory, and given the re-establishment of Israel as one nation in the time of Ezra and Nehemiah (as prophesied – see article below) there is good reason to doubt the teachings of British-Israelites.
Then Agrippa said to Paul, “You are permitted to speak for yourself.”
So Paul stretched out his hand and answered for himself: 2 “I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews, 3 especially because you are expert in all customs and questions which have to do with the Jews. Therefore I beg you to hear me patiently.
4 “My manner of life from my youth, which was spent from the beginning among my own nation at Jerusalem, all the Jews know. 5 They knew me from the first, if they were willing to testify, that according to the strictest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee. 6 And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers. 7 To this promise our twelve tribes, earnestly serving God night and day, hope to attain. For this hope’s sake, King Agrippa, I am accused by the Jews. Acts 26:1-7
by David Kidd
The British-Israel Myth - Christian Identity and the Lost Tribes of Israel by Nick Greer
A major problem in the British-Israel argument is the failure to consider the implications of Babylon’s fall to the Persian King Cyrus. The British-Israel model leaves Babylon and Media as two separate Kingdoms. When Cyrus made his decree in Babylon to release 3.3 UNIFICATION OF ASSYRIA AND BABYLON
‘those who worship the Lord’, they assume that only the tribes of Judah are being released from Babylon. They don’t realize that Babylon and Media were one kingdom by then. The declaration of Cyrus to release the exiles, carried out by Darius (Ezra 6), would have extended over the whole Medo-Persian Empire and included the Houses of both Israel and Judah. This fact can be shown from scripture. After conquering Babylon, Cyrus made his edict releasing all of the ‘Lord’s people’ in his kingdom. Cyrus’s edict was not carried out immediately, and his successor, King Darius I, carried it out. At one point, Darius searched the royal archives to find the edict (Ezra 6:1-7, italics mine): Then King Darius made a decree, and they searched the archives where the documents were stored in Babylon. But it was in Ecbatana, the capital in the province of Media, that a scroll was found on which was written: ‘A record. In the first year of his reign, King Cyrus issued a decree: Concerning the house of God at Jerusalem, let the house be rebuilt … let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews rebuild this house of God…’ It is fascinating that we see a copy of the edict being found in Ecbatana, capital of Media. It shows that Cyrus’s edict to release the captives was not only sent to the towns of Babylon, but also to the towns of Media. The edict was clear that ‘whoever is among you of all his people’ should return. Therefore, both the Tribes of Judah in Babylon and the Tribes of Israel in Media were set free to return to Canaan and rebuild the temple. Scripture is clear that the Tribes of Judah and the remnant of Israel did return to the promised lands of Canaan and its surrounds. Jeremiah prophesies (chapter 50:17-20): Israel is a hunted sheep driven away by lions. First the king of Assyria devoured it, and now at the end King Nebuchadrezzar of Babylon has gnawed its bones … I will restore Israel to its pasture … I will pardon the remnant that I have spared. Ezra talked of the return to Canaan, and he specifically makes mention of “Israelite people” returning (Ezra 2:2, 59, 70, 3:1, 11). Other scripture records plainly that, “the first to live again in their possessions in their towns were the Israelites ... [while] some of the people of Judah, Benjamin, Ephraim, and Manasseh lived in Jerusalem” (1 Chronicles 9:2, and also Ezra 6:16,17). By the time of Jesus Christ, we know that there were members of the Israelite tribe of Asher in Jerusalem (Luke 2:36). After the captivity, Scripture seems to say that the Tribes of Judah and Israel were again united. It seems that, over time, Israelites of the Assyrian 3.4 RE-UNIFICATION OF ISRAEL AND JUDAH captivity began “merging with the Judean exile” 20 (Jeremiah 50:17). Perhaps this was because their captors made no distinctions between them (Jeremiah 50:33). Ezekiel’s vision of the two sticks made one (37:15-28) tells of the re-unification of Israel and Judah. The Promised Land once again became known as “all Israel” (Ezra 2:70; 8:35; 10:5; Nehemiah 12:47). For this reason, at Pentecost, Peter could address the Hebrews as “Men of Judea”, and as “Fellow Israelites” (Acts 2:14, 29). The apostle Paul could be a “Jew” (Acts 21:29), an “Israelite” (2 Corinthians 11:22), and a “Hebrew” (Philippians 3:5) at the same time. 21 There was no longer a distinction – and it is wrong to say that there is this distinction between the Tribes of Israel and Judah to this day. Jeremiah’s prophecy is also clear, however, that only a remnant of the exiles returned to the Promised Land. Ezra, for example, was one who returned to Jerusalem whilst the Book of Esther is the story of another who stayed behind. In the Fifth Century B.C.E. exiles were still found throughout the 127 jurisdictional districts of the Persian Empire (Esther 1:1; 3:8). James referred to them as the “twelve tribes of the dispersion” (James 1:1). So what happened to the Israelites that remained in Babylon and Media? The real, eventual, fate of many of the Israelites who chose to remain in Media was probably death (Deuteronomy 28:15, 36, 48, 61; Amos 9:4, 9, 10). An old article in Time magazine says, “there is no mystery about the fate of the Ten Tribes. Most of those exiled to Media died of harsh treatment; the Assyrians were the Nazis of their day”. 22 The prophet Isaiah powerfully prophesies their fate: “though your people Israel were like the sand of the sea, only a remnant of them will return. Destruction is decreed, overflowing with righteousness” (Isaiah 10:22). It is a clear parallel for Christians today. All are offered forgiveness and restitution through the Lord Jesus Christ, but only a remnant will be saved through faith. Those refusing the invitation are forced to suffer the eternal consequence (Matthew 7:13,14; Daniel 12:2).
For more teaching on the meaning of Israel today and the lost tribes myth, just email churchofgodslove4@gmail.com
Building Character Through Character Studies (Teacher’s Guide available on request)
Introduction
Spiritual formation is a popular catchword in Christian circles today. It might otherwise be described as character building through the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul defines what this means especially well in Romans 8:29 where he identifies God’s ultimate purpose for our lives – being conformed to the image of His Son.
The apostle Peter describes God’s plans for our character growth in a progressive way in 2 Peter 1:5-7 as follows:
… giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love.
We will never reach perfection in this life, but through God’s process of sanctification in general, and the gifts God has given each of us to edify the body, God is bringing us “to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).
In this diverse, but unified, series of studies we will take a look at some of the lesser talked about Bible characters and find out what interesting and important things we can learn about them, and from them. By delving deeply into their lives and discussing their strengths and weaknesses together, we will be edified and inspired to grow the kind of character that God desires to see formed in us.
Bible characters are human beings just like us. They faced the same issues we still face today. There is nothing new under the sun. Many of the issues we face in our everyday lives will therefore be explored. So sit back, and enjoy these practical and relevant studies. Oh, and don’t forget to prepare for Sabbath school, and you will enjoy growing together with others during this character building series.
Christ-link
One final point of introduction: to keep our focus on our Lord and Friend through this exciting 13 week journey of discovering some of the interesting characters of the Bible, most lessons will have a sidebar entitled “Christ-link.” If time permits, before concluding each study we will turn our attention to the priceless wisdom directly offered by Christ on the key issue of character addressed in the particular lesson. In the few studies that do not have the “Christ- link” side bar, our Lord will have already been a major focus of the lesson.
The Power of Example
“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12)
Key texts & preparatory reading: 1 Peter 2:20-24, John 13:12-16, 1 Corinthians 4:16 & 11:1, 1 Timothy 4:12, James 5:10-12
Objectives: To appreciate the power of the example we set and to learn to set a better one, especially to our youth and newcomers to our churches.
Introduction
There are several scriptures showing the importance of setting a “godly” example to others. Jesus is set forth as our ultimate example in 1 Peter 2:20-24. He endured suffering in a righteous manner. Through His washing of the disciples’ feet, He also set us the example of humbly serving our brethren (John 13:12-17). But “that’s Jesus!” you might say.
The apostle Paul twice encouraged the brethren to follow his example by urging them to imitate him as he imitated Christ (1 Corinthians 4:16 & 11:1). But “that’s Paul!” you might say.
Paul also encourages young Timothy to “be an example to believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). But you might excuse yourself and say, “Timothy was an elder.” Could we as everyday Christians hope for others to follow our example too? Well, why not, unless ours is a poor example?
If we wanted to make it as a professional footballer and we therefore joined a club where we thought the other players were pursuing the same dream, but we soon discovered they were not very committed to such a dream and we found the players only training once a week, and staying out late partying the night before matches, would we become discouraged at this club? How about if we aspired to be in God’s eternal kingdom and we therefore joined a church where we thought the members had the same goal, but we soon discovered that many in the church had little commitment to God’s kingdom and were more interested in the pleasures of this earth – might we become discouraged at this church? Do you see the “power of example?”
How about if we were interested in being rich and so we joined a society who claimed they had the secrets to wealth, but we found they were not all that rich and were losing money fast – would we linger there? Similarly, if we were interested in knowing God better and experiencing the joy of a godly life and we therefore joined a church, but the people in the church did not seem to know God as they were not like Jesus at all, and they were not joyful people – would we be discouraged? You see the power of example and the importance of setting the right example?
This lesson provides the foundation for this character building series by emphasizing the importance of the example we set as Christians especially to our youth and newcomers to our churches. It will highlight the need for us to allow the Holy Spirit to continue to develop godly character in us so that our lives cry out as Paul cried out, “imitate me as I imitate Christ.”
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. Think of someone outside of the Bible who has been a great role model in your life and share this experience with the group.
2. The apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:1 urged the brethren to imitate him as he imitated Christ. (a) Would you have any problem with a pastor or another Christian saying the same thing?
(b) Even if you felt you couldn’t say such a thing, could you hope for others to follow your example?
3. What do you think are some of the biggest “put offs/turn offs” to young people or new people in the church?
4. What do you consider to be some of the biggest “turn-ons” to young people or new people in the church?
5. What do you consider to be the most important ways that we should be setting good examples to our youth in the church?
Christ-link
Think of a saying of Christ that best relates to what you consider to be the key message of this study.
Conclusion
Jesus is our greatest example. Jesus lives in us. We have put Him on like a garment. We are to shine His light. People are to see Him in us. We are His ambassadors. Let’s walk in His steps and reflect His nature. Only then will our lives be a powerful example to those around us and throughout the world.
The Apostle Thomas
Hopeless doubter, healthy skeptic, or something in between?
The Thomas, who is called The Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with Him.” (John 13:16)
Key texts & preparatory reading: John 11:8-16, 13:36-14:5, 20:20-29
Objectives: To learn to draw the line between unbelief and healthy skepticism.
Introduction
Most of us would have only looked at the apostle Thomas in a superficial way. Chances are, if we were asked what we thought his name meant, we would say “doubter.” We would be wrong. His name means “the twin.” But who was his twin brother or sister? Wikipedia reports the crazy theory that it was Jesus. Now that just does not make any sense in light of the virgin birth of Christ. Another interesting belief about Thomas is that he preached the gospel in India. Many Indians today are convinced this story is no fable. Of course we would expect that the disciples went far and wide because they were commissioned to go and preach the gospel to all nations. If Thomas did get as far as India, this should not be strange to our ears. The New Testament indeed tells us that the gospel was “in all the world” and “preached to every creature under heaven,” and that devout men from every nation under heaven experienced the events of Pentecost (Romans 16:26, Colossians 1:6,23).
The scriptures do not record much about Thomas, so we can’t answer all the questions about him. However, if we look closely at what scriptures there are, we can learn a lot about him and from him. Unfortunately, we have tended to focus on the negative aspect of one famous episode in his life when he insisted he would not believe in the resurrected Christ until he could see and touch Jesus’ wounds. From this one episode, we have been prepared to quite happily label our brother negatively (and derogatively) as “doubting Thomas” and stop there.
However, it has also been written of Thomas that his “personality was complex, revealing a skepticism mixed with loyalty and faith (John 11:16)” (p. 1592, Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary, 2003, Holman Bible Publishers Nashville Tennessee). In this study, we will seek to understand and get to know the true Thomas. We will learn where the line should be drawn in our lives between unbelief and healthy skepticism.
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. On the basis of the key texts, brainstorm and make a long list of all of the biblical facts we are given about Thomas.
2. What strengths do you see in Thomas, if any? What do you think is the key attribute of Thomas to emulate, if any? (e.g. consider John 11:8-16, see if you can glean anything about Thomas’s character from John 14:5, and contemplate John 20:28)
3. What weaknesses do you see in Thomas? What do you think is the key attribute of Thomas not to emulate?
4. Thomas is commonly labeled “the doubter.” Do you consider that we have been unfair to Thomas at all?
5. Is skepticism ever healthy, and if so, to what extent?
Christ-link
In John 2:23-25, Jesus showed an interesting attitude toward humanity. What was it and what can we learn from it?
Conclusion
Most of us could admit that we have looked at Thomas in a superficial way and unfairly branded him as simply the “doubter.” We ought to be careful how we judge anyone. There is a place for healthy skepticism, but we must not let our skepticism detract from the appropriate love, trust, and faith we should put in Christ, and place in our brothers and sisters in Christ, and people in general.
Ruth-like or Ruth-less
Decision-making
For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it” (Luke 14:28)
Key texts & preparatory reading: Ruth 1:1-18
Introduction
Decisions, decisions!
Chapter one of the book of Ruth is a short story about gigantic life choices – monumental life choices. You know the type of choices we are talking about. These are the choices when we just seem to be between a rock and a hard place, where we don’t know whether to choose the frying pan or the fire, where both options seem too difficult to bear.
If we are feeling right now like we are between a rock and a hard place, then the story of Ruth will firstly comfort us by showing us that we are not alone in having to make tough choices. Secondly, and more importantly, we will get some godly guidance about how to tackle these difficult decisions.
The major decisions of leaving home and going home are confronted in Ruth. Each of these decisions involves choices about where we will live and why. At the heart of these important issues is our very own survival and well-being. These major decisions also involve choices about allegiances and relationships, and where we will place our support, commitment, and devotion. Our material, emotional, and spiritual well-being is at stake.
In a progressively mobile world, we are faced with these choices more and more. Many of us have our families scattered all over the world. We often have to make these kinds of decisions or guide others in making them, and this is never easy. As Christians we need God’s guidance to choose wisely.
This study will provide guidance not only for decision making in this difficult area, but for all the dilemmas we face. We will also see that there are similar “leaving” type decisions in a spiritual sense that we also often have to confront as Christians. May we have the wisdom, courage, and humility to choose according to God’s will.
Questions for Study and Discussion (based on Ruth chapter one)
1(a) In verses 1 & 2, what was the first difficult decision that had to be made and by whom? Why would it have been a difficult decision? Consider the physical/earthly factors which would have had to have been weighed in the balances?
(b) What spiritual considerations might have been involved, bearing in mind Elimelech was an Israelite?
Principle #1 for making wise decisions (Hint: See Romans 8:6, 13-14. Add your suggested principle below, based on your answers to Q1)
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2 (a) Consider verses 3-6. What happened to Elimelech? Does that mean his decision to leave Israel was against God? Be careful in your judgment here!
(b) What did Mahlon and Chilion do in Moab and what happened to them (vv. 4-5)? Were they being punished for taking foreign wives (Exodus 34:16 & Numbers 25:1). Be careful in judging this too.
(c) Naomi now faced a “going home” decision. What factors or concerns might have been on her mind in making this “going home” decision? Have you ever had to make a going home type decision? How big a factor was humility in making such a decision?
Principle #2 for making wise decisions (add your suggested principle below, based on your answers to Q2)
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3(a) Consider verses 7-15. What difficult decision did Ruth and Orpah now have to make? Put yourself in their shoes and consider what they would have to weigh in the balances in making their decision. Who would they be leaving?
(b) Did they initially decide to go with Naomi? What admirable thing was Naomi doing? (v8-9 & 11-13). What does Orpah finally decide? (v10,14-15)
Principle #3 for making wise decisions (Hint: what was Naomi causing Orpah to do? Add your suggested principle below, based on your answers to Q3)
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4. In verse 15, how does Naomi try and make it easier for Ruth to decide to stay with her family rather than come with her, the mother-in-law?
Principle #4 for making wise decisions (Hint: See paragraph … of commentary. Add your suggested principle below, based on your answers to Q4)
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5. Read verses 16-17 and note the sincerity of Ruth’s decision. What thing(s) though about Naomi might have put Ruth off going with her, apart from Naomi trying to dissuade her? Consider verses 13 and 15.
Principle #5 for making wise decisions (Hint: See conclusion. Add your suggested principle below, based on your answers to Q5)
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6. Why would Ruth leave her country, her family, her best prospects of re-marriage, and leave her culture and religion for her Mother-in-law who was doing all she could to dissuade her from coming?
Christ-link
What is the most important link with Christ from the story of Ruth?
Conclusion
Let’s not be ruthless or unwise in our decision making. Let’s base the difficult decisions in our lives not on what suits us best, or on what the crowd is doing, or on what’s comfortable or secure, or on temporal/earthly considerations alone, or on ill-considered bases. Rather, let’s fully count the cost, allow God’s spirit to move us and spiritual considerations to direct us. May our foolish pride not get in our way, and may we be patient with others when they are acting out of character. Let us see the big picture and be Ruth-like, and most of all Christ-like in all our decision making.
Simon the Sorcerer
Putting to death by the Spirit
“For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” (Romans 8:13)
Key texts & preparatory reading: Acts 8:5-24, Romans 8:1-14
Objectives: To understand ourselves and what major weaknesses or character flaws we had before we received the Holy Spirit, and to make sure that by the Spirit we have put them to death, or are continuing to do so.
Introduction
Are you satisfied with your life? Are you happy with who you are, or do real joy and contentment seem hard to find? Are there negative things in your heart that just won’t go away? Perhaps you question God and say “why God, after all of these years can’t I overcome my lack of confidence, depression, sins, anger, guilt, bitterness, slackness, or my past. Why God can’t I have the strength to do the things you want me to do?”
If any of these problems apply to you, real answers to your questions and yearnings can be found in considering the story of Simon the Sorcerer. Simon was a man who manipulated others for money and power with his magic, but one day, after seeing the miracles performed through Philip and hearing Philip preach the gospel and the kingdom of God, he saw that the Philip had something more awesome to offer him in Christ. Acts 8:13 says Simon believed, was baptized, and continued with Philip.
Very soon after, however, Simon put his “foot in it” big time, so much so that most commentators doubt he was really converted and doubt he ever received the Holy Spirit. Simon demeaned the Holy Spirit by seeking to purchase the power to impart the Spirit to others. In considering Simon’s story, we will be forced to consider our own story. Were we instantly rid of our evil propensities and sinful thoughts, motivations, and behaviors upon receiving the Holy Spirit? Does our “old man” or “old woman” still rear his or her ugly head? Are we being harsh on Simon and indeed hypocritical if we condemn him and suggest he never received the Holy Spirit because subsequent to his baptism he was still poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity?
Putting to death, by the Spirit, the things of the flesh was not something that Simon was able to do instantly. But notice that the apostle Peter had not given up on him. He urged him to repent, and in response Simon asked for Peter’s prayers so that he would be forgiven and escape God’s wrath. How about us? Are we putting to death by the Spirit the deeds of the flesh, and do any of our sinful traits we had prior to conversion still plague us?
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. Read Acts 8:5-24. Did Simon receive the Holy Spirit? Discuss the evidence for and against. In discussing this, remember Jesus’ saying that the measure you use to judge others will be measured back to you.
2. If Simon did receive the Holy Spirit it’s very sad that the changing power of the Spirit failed to change him and that he was still poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity. If a true Christian is struggling with sinful attitudes and behaviors what important thing might be missing in their life according to Romans 8:13-14?
3. In considering how, by the Spirit, we can put to death the deeds of the body, consider Simon as a prime example of what not to do. What did he do that was so bad and why was it so bad?
4. Why do you think Simon did what he did? In trying to understand this, discuss what he was like before he believed and was baptized. What pre-existing character-flaw continued to plague him?
5. If Simon had received the Holy Spirit along with his belief and baptism, could we reasonably expect that he would overcome his life-long sinful habits or pre-existing character flaws in an instant?
6. How can Simon’s story help us to overcome the negative things in our heart or sinful behaviors that we’ve struggled with for so long without ultimate victory?
Christ-link
Think of a saying of Christ that best relates to what you consider to be the key message of this study.
Conclusion
The wonderful changing power of the Holy Spirit is available to us, as it was to Simon. We must not let our old nature get the upper hand, as Simon’s did. We must make conscious choices not to feed our old nature. We mustn’t believe our old self when he or she tells us we are weak, stupid, useless, or ugly; or when he or she tells us we deserve center stage, or that we should sacrifice for that luxury sports car. Let’s save our sacrifices for Christ and continually feed our new self on the spiritual things God has laid so abundantly at our table. There will be joy unspeakable in our lives.
The Queen of Sheba
A genuine spirit
“The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here.” (Matthew 12:42)
*note that the material below relies on a source which the author cannot locate.
Key texts & preparatory reading: Matthew 12:42 & 1 Kings 10:1-13
Objectives: To bring out in a deeper way the meaning of Jesus’ statement in Matthew 12:42 that the Queen of Sheba will rise in judgment against Jesus’ generation and condemn it, and to find various applications for our lives.
Introduction
When invited by God to ask for whatever his heart desired most, King Solomon chose wisdom, and indeed God blessed him with great wisdom (2 Chronicles 1:7-12).
The Queen of Sheba heard about Solomon’s wisdom. She had seen how Israel’s empire under Solomon had grown larger than it had ever been. Indeed, this was the only time in Israel’s history when Israel occupied the entirety of the land promised to Abraham. Truly, this was a golden age for Israel where silver was as common as stones in Jerusalem (1 Kings 10:27). The Queen wanted to hear Solomon’s wisdom and see the splendor of his kingdom for herself, so she set off on her journey to seek out this King of great renown.
Scholars are uncertain as to where Sheba was, but it is suggested that possibly it is in the south western Arabian Peninsula in the vicinity of modern Yemen. Others suggest the horn of Africa, near modern Djbouti. What is more certain, however, is that Jesus in Matthew 12:42, by referring to the Queen’s encounter with Solomon, meant to rebuke and correct at least three kinds of people by pointing to the Queen's good example. Included among these people are those who are slack toward seeking to know God, those who enquire of God in inappropriate ways, and those who do not respond appropriately to God after having come to realize God’s awe-inspiring nature.
In this study we will discover where we stand in relation to each of these areas.
Questions for Study and Discussion
Read 1 Kings 10:1-13
1. What can be said about the Queen’s enquiring spirit? What made it special? Consider the Queen’s circumstances (royalty, geography, religion etc).
2. How did she conduct her enquiry and what can we learn or emulate from this? Consider
verses 1, 2 & 11.
3. What was the result of the Queen’s enquiry?
4. In what ways did the she respond to King Solomon? Consider verses 6-10 & 13.
5. Reflect upon your answers to questions one, two and four, and in light of Matthew 12:42, summarize the nature of Jesus’ rebuke to His generation, and what we can learn from it.
Conclusion
How greatly blessed were those few in Jesus' day who, like the Queen of Sheba with Solomon, dared to express to Jesus what was in their hearts? Many of them were made whole. King Solomon gave the Queen of Sheba all she desired. Just as our response to Christ should exceed the Queen's response to King Solomon, God's response to us will greatly exceed Solomon's to the Queen. A servant of the Lord has treasures stored in heaven that we just can't imagine. More than our desires will be met, especially in the Kingdom to come. Even now those who seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness can testify of the wonderful favour and blessings of God which exceed our expectations. I pray that none of us will be condemned by the Queen of Sheba in the judgment to come!
Micah’s Character Flaw
The Inner man
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16)
Key texts & preparatory reading: Judges 17:1-13, 18:14-26, 2 Corinthians 4:16-5:1
Objectives: To learn to root out superficiality in our lives and to appreciate the importance of cultivating the inner man.
Introduction
Micah was from the mountains of Ephraim in Israel. He lived during the dark period of the Judges where there was no king in Israel and when “everyone did what was right in their own eyes” (Judges 17:6). Micah was no exception.
Micah stole eleven hundred shekels of silver from his mother, but later returned it. She then used some of it to make him a carved image. Micah not only had his own personal idols and shrine which he had made, he also consecrated one of his sons to be his priest. However, not being content with this, one day when he saw a Levite priest passing by, his eyes lit up. Such priests were known to be especially consecrated by God. Micah therefore, using the substantial means at his disposal, persuaded the priest to become his own personal priest. Now that he had a Levite for a priest Micah was certain that the Lord would smile upon him (Judges 17:13).
However, things did not pan out as Micah had expected. Having a Levite for a priest did not turn out to be the key to the Lord’s favor, or a good life. Five Danites persuaded the priest to leave Micah and be a priest to a tribe and community of Israel, rather than to the household of just one man. The priest departed with Micah’s dreams, not to mention his ephod, household images, and the carved image his mother gave him.
Micah chased after the men of Dan and when they asked him what ailed him, Micah despaired saying, “You have taken away my gods, which I made, and the priest … Now what more do I have?”
Micah may seem like a very strange guy to us, but when we look closely at him, we may see that his ways are more familiar to us than we think.
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. Read Judges 17:1-13. Be really critical and analyze what’s wrong in Micah’s life. What really concerns you about him? Is he headed for a fall? If so, why?
2. How indicative is v. 13 of one of Micah’s greatest character flaws?
3. Is focusing on externals a significant problem in the world? Can you think of examples in people’s everyday lives and in our spiritual lives where externals are given too much emphasis at the expense of internals?
4. What happens to people who focus too much on external things?
5. What happened to Micah? Read Judges 18:14-26
6 (a) Discuss 2 Corinthians 4:16 and what being renewed day by day in the inward man means.
(b) Discuss two or three important inner characteristics which need to be developed in us and how such growth occurs in us.
Christ-link
What did Jesus have to say about internals and externals?
Conclusion
If we cooperate with God who desires to sanctify our inner being day by day, we will never need to cry as Micah did when his externals failed – “now what more do I have?” No one can take from us the priceless internal possessions of character we have from the Lord, and no one can steal our incorruptible eternal inheritance.
The Grateful Demoniac
Appreciating our deliverance
“And he departed and began to proclaim in Decapolis all that Jesus had done for him; and all marveled.” (Mark 5:20)
Key texts & preparatory reading: Mark 5:1-20; Mark 9:27-31; Luke 8:26-39
Objectives: To understand why the demoniac appreciated and obeyed Christ so much, and to gain a greater appreciation of our own deliverance so that we are stirred to greater devotion to Christ.
Introduction
The man in Mark 5 whom Jesus delivered from demons (the ‘demoniac’) in the country of the Gadarenes did not wish to go home to his family and friends, but rather begged Jesus that he might be with Him. When Jesus refused his sincere request and told him to go home to his friends and testify about the marvelous compassion the Lord had shown him, he obeyed. However, Matthew 9:27-31 records the story of two blind men healed by Jesus who were sternly warned not to spread the news that Jesus had healed them, but these men disobeyed and testified widely of the great work Jesus had done in their lives.
When the grateful demoniac was delivered he wanted to be near Jesus with his whole being. However, the men of Gadarene were afraid and pleaded with Jesus to depart their region. The contrasts this story presents will cause us to examine what affects our attitudes toward Jesus.
In carefully examining the demoniac’s life we will learn what we need to know about demons and we will appreciate the depths of darkness this poor man had descended to. He had been stripped of all dignity and worldly affiliations. He had truly been delivered from a hellish existence, and he fully realized what great thing Jesus had done for him.
It’s not only the contrasts in the story that make for interesting reflection though. The comparisons between the demoniac’s deliverance with the deliverance Jesus has wrought in our lives will open our eyes to a fuller appreciation of Christ.
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. In Mark 5:1-5 and Luke 8:26-27 what signs or indicators do we see of the man having unclean spirits or demons?
2. How might this man have got into such a terrible condition? How long had he been controlled by demons? i.e. what opens the door to such powerful demonic influence?
3. Was Jesus dealing with the man or the unclean spirits? Consider verses 6-10.
4. What does verse 6 indicate about the demons’ view of Jesus?
5. Why do you think the demons begged Jesus not to send them out of the territory but to instead send them into the swine? Can we as humans really understand demons?
6. Verse 15 says the people were afraid. What do you think caused them to fear?
7. Who did the people ask to leave the region; Jesus or the man who had been delivered from demons? Why do you think they wanted this?
8. What was the demon-delivered man’s response to being delivered, and what was Jesus’ message to him (vv. 18-19)? How would you describe the man’s obedience to Jesus?
9. Why do you think the man responded as he did, and obeyed so well, when others in scripture who had been greatly helped by Jesus, disobeyed (Matt. 9:29-31)? In answering this question review the man’s personal circumstances and put yourself in his shoes. What insights do we get from his circumstances about what helps or hinders us in obeying God?
Conclusion
The demon-delivered man realized perfectly well the gloriousness of what God had done for him, not only physically, but also spiritually. He had tasted utter darkness of the soul. He was delivered from great physical pain and disability (self-mutilation), social isolation and loss, and great mental and spiritual torment of the soul (a hellish existence). There would have been no more grateful person in the world.
We too must realize that we have been saved by Christ from a reality perhaps worse than what the demoniac experienced. We have been spared, well in advance, from the condemnation of judgment day and the wailing and gnashing of teeth associated with being cast into the Lake of Fire. We have also been saved from many of the terrible consequences of sin that we might have otherwise experienced in this life if we had not turned to Christ. Let’s join with the demon-delivered man and widely proclaim what great things Jesus has done for us.
Naaman Changed His Mind
Humility
“And his servants came near and spoke to him, and said, ‘My father, if the prophet had told you to do something great, would you not have done it? How much more then, when he says to you, “Wash, and be clean”?’” (2 Kings 5:13)
Key text & preparatory reading: 2 Kings 5
Objectives: To examine ourselves to see how humble we are when it comes to listening to others and to God.
Introduction
How well do we listen to others, whether they be small or great, and whether we be small or great? Are we open to taking advice from all kinds of people, regardless of their social status? Could we ever possibly follow advice which is plainly contrary to what we were expecting or wanting to hear? Are there things that God has told us to do that don’t make much sense to us and which we are reluctant to do?
Naaman was a great and honorable man who commanded the Syrian army. He was plagued with the skin disease of leprosy and was faced with choices to make about who he would listen to and what advice he would take concerning his miserable condition. Firstly, his wife passed on to him what she had heard from their servant girl about a prophet in Israel who had the ability to heal. Naaman decided to listen to his wife and his servant girl and apparently allowed his wife to pack ten changes of clothing for him (2 Kings 5:5).
Secondly, the king of Syria encouraged him to go, and he heeded the king. Thirdly, Elisha the prophet in Israel had some unexpected advice for him which he vehemently resented and was determined not to follow. However, fourthly, Naaman listened to some of his servants who convinced him to change his mind and he heeded the prophet’s instructions.
Sometimes we react as Naaman initially reacted to Elisha’s unexpected advice. Things are not as we expect or as we want, so we react emotionally and give up or spit the dummy. Perhaps we do this in our prayer lives when our prayers seem to hit a stone ceiling above. Perhaps, we don’t receive as much blessing in our lives as we thought we would as a Christian, or we are disappointed with the way the church is going, or the way the pastor is behaving. As a result, sometimes, we withdraw our fellowship and service, or ours hearts from church and God. Thank God that Naaman was not a man who was so proud or arrogant that he wouldn’t listen to others, even his servants, or his wife. May his example encourage us to humble ourselves too.
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. Who was Naaman, what did his name mean, and what was his problem? (read verse 1)
2. What was interesting about Naaman’s decision to go to Samaria/Israel to be healed, and why do you think he took 10 changes of clothing? (read vv. 2-5)
3. What was the King of Israel’s response to the Syrian king’s letter, and do you agree that his response was quite understandable? (read vv. 6-7)
4. How would you describe Naaman’s reaction to the prophet Elisha’s advice? What do you think of his reaction? Do we as Christians often behave in a similar way in our lives with God and with His church? Give examples. (read vv. 8-12)
5. What do you think was the main thing in Naaman’s character that was potentially standing in his way of being healed?
6. Verse 12 shows that Naaman was very angry about what the prophet of God had asked him to do. Has God ever required something of you that made you angry or that you didn’t want to do, or is He doing so now? Share testimony.
7. What caused Naaman to change his mind (see vv. 13-15) and what can we learn from this about having a different attitude towards the things God wants us to do that we’re reluctant to do, and in helping others do the same?
Christ-link
(a) Compare the interesting ways Christ sometimes healed with Elisha’s advice.
(b) From memory, share some key words of Christ on humility.
Conclusion
Naaman was not going to do what God said through His prophet. What God said sounded silly and it made him angry. However, he humbled himself, changed his mind, and was totally healed so that his skin became as nice as the skin of a little child. Let’s be mindful of the good advice we have been given, but are reluctant to follow. If there is anything that we are reluctant to do, or reluctant to stop doing, that our consciences are now reminding us about, let’s yield as Naaman did. Let’s also take another look at what God has commanded us to do and lay aside our unbelief or stubborness. If we find a new attitude as Naaman did, we too will find greater blessing and spiritual healing.
Priscilla and Aquila
Service
“Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house. …” (Romans 16:3-5)
Key texts & preparatory reading: Acts 18:1-4, 12-18 & 24-28, Romans 16:3-5, 1 Corinthians 16:19
Objectives: To acquaint ourselves with two servants of God and be instructed and inspired by their lives of service.
Introduction
Can we take aside a person who knows little about the Holy Scriptures and confidently instruct them in God’s wisdom? Can we even take aside a man who is strong in the scriptures and explain to him the way of God more accurately? Priscilla could, with her husband Aquila, and such action was useful to the Lord as illustrated by their encounter with Apollos, a man already mighty in the scriptures. It was useful to the Lord, but was it really necessary for Priscilla, a woman, to be doing this? Her husband probably could have handled Apollos on his own. Is it required of all Christians to know the scriptures well enough to teach others?
Apparently, in the dark ages, the Catholic Church did not consider it to be necessary even for believers to possess a Bible in their own language, let alone to be able to explain it to others. Some of their arguments for this position will be weighed in the balances. Staunch Christians believed to the contrary, and gave their lives so that we could possess the Bible in our native tongues and understand its profitable doctrine. Their arguments will also be considered.
Due to their expulsion from Rome as a result of the edict of Emperor Claudius, Aquila and Priscilla found themselves in Corinth where they came to know the Apostle Paul. They learned much from Paul and showed a great readiness to serve the Lord in a variety of ways. They were also willing to risk their lives for the sake of the gospel.
As we experience the trials, tribulations, and joys of their godly service, we will be challenged to also lay down our lives daily for Christ.
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. On the basis of the key texts, brainstorm and make a long list of all of the facts we are given about Priscilla and Aquila. e.g. They were both tentmakers (Acts 18:3).
2. What strengths do you see in Aquila and Priscilla? Are there any apparent weaknesses?
3. What’s interesting about Priscilla’s life bearing in mind that she’s a woman?
4. In the dark and middle ages a conflict raged over whether the common person should have access to the Bible in a language they understood. Review some of the arguments for each side of this hot and deadly conflict.
5. How necessary and advisable is it for every Christian to be knowledgeable in the scriptures to the extent that they can instruct others?
6. In Romans 16:3-4, it says there was a church in Priscilla and Aquila’s house. What do we learn about them from the fact that they were willing to have the church in their house? What did it take for them to have a church in their house, and what does it take today to open up our homes for church, Bible studies or other church-related meetings?
Christ-link
The Son of Man had nowhere to lay His head (Matthew 8:20). Apparently, Jesus did not have His own house, but what would you consider to be a Christ-like way to use our homes?
Conclusion
If we are content just to have the Bible expounded to us from the preacher, or to see the scriptures on the power-point every week, or to read our Bible’s at home on the odd occasion, then we will have seen from this study that this is not God’s plan for us. The Word of God has been preserved for us by the blood of martyrs. Let’s cherish it and make every effort to learn it. Let’s also be useful to God as Priscilla and Aquila were and go on to maturity in Christ, which necessarily involves the sacrifice of all that we have and are for His sake.
Hosea the Betrayed
Overcoming a broken heart
"How can I give you up, Ephraim? How can I hand you over, Israel? … My heart churns within Me; My sympathy is stirred. I will not execute the fierceness of My anger; I will not again destroy Ephraim. For I am God, and not man, The Holy One in your midst; And I will not come with terror.” (Hosea 11:8-9)
Key texts & preparatory reading: Hosea 1:1-9; 2:1-8; 3:1-5; 5:6,10,12, 9:11-12,15; 11:8-9; 14:4-7
Objectives: To better understand the strength of God’s love, and to tap into the love He pours out into our hearts to help us love when it hurts.
Introduction
God told the prophet Hosea in about 750 B.C. to marry Gomer, a prostitute! God did what? Not only that though, God told Hosea to take Gomer back after she fell back into prostitution.
All kinds of horrible feelings would have been in Hosea’s bones like rottenness. How could Gomer betray him and their children so, and leave them alone? What kind of mother does this? How could she bring him, a prophet of God, such dishonor by her betrayal, and how could his beloved wife even degrade herself so? Just think of the worst thing a loved one could ever do to you emotionally, or has done, and whether you could forgive them. This would closely resemble what Hosea was feeling.
Why would God command Hosea to take such a woman back? Why should Hosea take her back? It seems as if God is giving Hosea first-hand experience of the pain He Himself was experiencing because of Israel’s unfaithfulness toward Him. They were loving false gods and the raisin cakes of the pagans (3:1-2).
A theologian once wrote a book called ‘The Impassive God’ in which he tried to prove that God is incapable of real suffering. This God is not the God revealed in the book of Hosea, or revealed through Christ at the cross of Calvary. In Hosea, we not only learn about how God suffers and how His heart breaks when His people sin against Him, we also learn about the undying nature of God’s love for all mankind.
The book of Hosea opens our eyes to the heart of God and the heartbreak of God, especially when His people are unfaithful to Him. Hosea’s story will strengthen us to love when it hurts, and it will powerfully show us the vast depths of God’s love and forgiveness for us. May it inspire us.
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. Who was Hosea and when did he live?
2. What kind of woman was Gomer? Do you find it surprising that God asked Hosea to marry her? Why or why not?
3. God commands Hosea to ‘Go again’ (3:1) and take ‘Gomer back after she had entered/re-entered the sinful life of prostitution. Discuss:
(a) what factors would have made this very difficult for Hosea; and
(b) why God was asking him to do this.
4. (a) Do you think that God experiences strong emotions and real suffering of any kind? Can you give any examples from scripture generally?
(b) Consider also the following statements of God about Israel in Hosea.
. She is not my wife. Let her put away her harlotries lest I strip her naked and expose her and slay her with thirst (2:2-3)
. I will not have mercy on her children, for they are children of harlotry. (2:4)
. She went after her lovers and forgot me (2:13)
. They shall seek the Lord, but He has withdrawn Himself (5:6)
. I will pour out my wrath on them like water (5:10)
. I will be to them like a moth and rottenness (5:12)
. Their glory shall fly away like a bird, no birth, no pregnancy, no conception. I will bereave them to the last man (9:11-12)
. All their wickedness in Gilgal. For there I hated them, because of the evil of their deeds. I will drive them from my house. I will love them no more (9:15).
What do you glean from these statements about God? How would you describe His state of heart or mind?
5. What do we learn about the depth of God’s love from Hosea 11:8-9 and 14:4-7?
6. Compare God’s “going again” with Hosea’s. What makes God’s all the more special?
7. (Personal – Sharing not required) Consider if there is any relationship you need to “go again” in. The closing prayer can address the need for strength to “go again” in such relationships.
Conclusion
Through God’s, Hosea’s, and our own betrayal experiences, may we better appreciate the importance of remaining faithful to God and better understand the sting of unfaithfulness. Knowing the vast depths of God’s love for us; knowing the great price God was willing to pay for His creation despite its treachery; and knowing the strong, strong emotions of God, may we let it impact on our attitude toward sin so that we flee from it all the more.
May Hosea’s story also encourage us to share God’s love with others even to the point of making sacrifices to do so. May Hosea’s story also spur us on to restore those who are living in unfaithfulness to us and to God. Let us be ready to forgive and ready to reach out to the sheep that have strayed, no matter how much it hurts. If we ourselves are the ones needing to be restored to God, may Hosea’s story encourage us to cry out to God for His tender mercies and loving-kindness.
Finally, let us stand in awe of the strength God had to go again in the most incredible way at the cross. This same strength is in us through the Holy Spirit if we have surrendered to God and let Him into our hearts, or it can be, if we will only surrender our lives to Him even today.
Samson the Warrior
Subduing sin Samson’s way
“Then Samson said, ‘Let me die with the Philistines!’ And he pushed with all his might, and the temple fell on the lords and all the people who were in it. So the dead that he killed at his death were more than he had killed in his life. (Judges 16:30)
Key texts & preparatory reading: Judges 13-16, Hebrews 11:32-35
Objectives: To learn what it takes to be an overcomer in this life.
Introduction
Like most people we may find it hard to relate to a man who tore a lion apart with his bare hands, who killed 30 men to steal their clothes to honor a vow, who caught 300 foxes, tied them tail to tail and torched them, and who killed 1,000 men with the jaw bone of a donkey. These are just a few of Samson’s violent exploits recorded in Judges 13-16.
Samson, as we know, also had very long hair which he regarded as being the secret of his great strength. When Delilah deceived him into divulging his secret he was taken captive by the Philistines. The lesson we can learn from Samson’s life, however, is one that goes far deeper than being careful not to tell our partner our deepest secrets after they have already tried to have us killed three times. There is a much deeper message to be gained from Samson’s story when we understand his life from a New Testament perspective. It will help any of us struggling with the terrible grip of sin, give us new strength, and lead us on to victory over sin and its terrible effects in our lives.
Many of us long for this victory. Perhaps one particular sin has plagued us for many years. Our efforts to overcome it may have succeeded for a while, but alas, it always comes back to bite us. It is worth considering whether it is time to deal with our sin issues in a far sharper or radical way as the scriptures instruct us to. Jesus said, “if your foot causes you to sin cut it off.” Too often we treat the sin as our friend when in fact we need to treat it as a soldier would treat his worst enemy. We need to recognize that sin will not only cause us harm in this life, even potentially fatal harm, but ultimately it will destroy our soul. To us, sin must equal Philistine! Only then will we stop underestimating its destructiveness. Only then will we be prepared to take the radical measures that are absolutely necessary to gain victory over it. Only then will we be prepared to discipline our bodies as a good soldier does to survive.
If we have been failing miserably against sin, maybe we have been trying to defeat it too gently, or only in a piecemeal fashion. We’ll try to gradually cut back our sinful habit from once a week to once a month, to once a year and then hopefully give it up, or we won’t remove ourselves from the temptation that causes us to stumble, but we’ll just pray for more strength to overcome the temptation. We will live alongside the enemy. However, as Samson knew, the enemy needs to be banished. We will discover in this lesson that we can learn more from violent Samson than we perhaps thought.
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. What in Hebrews 11:32-35 especially applies to Samson? Provide relevant verses from Judges.
2. Of these great exploits, which represented the main goal of Samson’s life? Is this one of a Christian’s most important goals? Explain.
3 (a) Give a few examples of how Samson went about achieving his goal in a truly violent and radical manner, including sacrificing his life.
(b) Did Samson always do these things in faith or according to God’s will?
(c) Is there any sense in which Christians are to violently subdue a kingdom at the cost of our lives? Give examples.
4. In the final act of Samson’s life, in his weakness he became strong, and he did more in this one incident in achieving his goal than he did in his entire life (Judges 16:30). Read Judges 16:21-30. What do you see as the most important factor in God granting Samson renewed strength?
5. What key things do you learn personally from Samson about receiving the strength you need to overcome sin and weakness?
Christ-link
Think of a saying of Christ that best relates to what you consider to be the key message of this study.
Conclusion
Interestingly for us, in the English language the word Philistine has three ‘I’s in it. ‘Sin’ has one ‘I’ right in the middle. Samson knew that in subduing a kingdom the best place to start was to kill the king and all his powerful supporters by giving his all. In our case, the king that first has to be destroyed for victory to be won is ‘self, me, mine, and I.’ Let’s also win the victory over what ever sin has dominion over us by dying to self. This means that a radical redirection through repentance is required in our hearts and in our lives. Once we truly realize the wickedness of our sin and truly repent of our sin, and have a strong God-given determination never to do it again God will impart to us His awesome strength through the Holy Spirit. Let’s take out the pillars of sin and the lords of sin in our lives, pulling down strongholds, just as Samson did. We will be set free from bondage as slaves are set free, and we will be more powerful through the death of our old selves than we ever were, just like Samson.
The Mother of Zebedee’s Sons
Great aspirations
“And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all.” (Mark 10:44)
Key texts & preparatory reading: Matthew 20:17-28, Mark 10:35-45
Objectives: To learn the importance and place of ambition/aspiration in a Christian’s life and yet be humbled by our Lord’s example.
Introduction
The mother of Zebedee’s sons desired great things for her children, the apostles James and John (Mark 1:19-20). She had great aspirations for them. She beseeched Jesus to grant her sons the honor of sitting next to Him in the Kingdom of God.
Normally this mother, whose name may be Salome (see Mark 16:1, Matthew 27:56, & John 19:25) is highly criticized for her request, but let’s try to put a positive slant on it for one moment. It’s impressive that her aspirations for her children were not earthly ones for secular wealth, position, or power. It’s also commendable that her aspirations were high ones, perhaps the highest one could possibly imagine aiming for. Her zeal was also admirable. In this study we will consider how these aspirations compare with our aspirations for our children, and for ourselves.
Zeal, however, must come with knowledge (Romans 10:2) and purity of motive, and this is where the mother of Zebedee’s sons, in part, fell short. If we ask amiss, God will not answer our prayers as we want (James 4:3). Nevertheless, Jesus did commend and recommend the spirit of asking in us and the importance of having great aspirations. He said, “ask and you shall receive.” He commended the persistent widow’s faith and boldness in asking (Luke 18:1-5), and the Syrophonecian woman who was happy to be identified with the dogs who got the crumbs if only Jesus would deliver her daughter from demon possession (Mark 7:24-30). He encouraged us to lay up our treasure in heaven. Paul aspired for the prize of the upward call (Philippians 3:14). Perhaps Jesus sees not only faith in a person’s aspiring and asking, but also a beautiful yearning for God Himself and the things of His kingdom.
As positive as ambition and aspirations can be however, in this study we will see how the aspirations of this mother clearly missed the mark and how ours also can.
Finally, we will also be confronted with what it really takes to truly be great. We will fittingly conclude this series of studies by turning our attention to the most powerful example of all – our Lord’s example of humble service.
Questions for Study and Discussion
1. Do you/did you have great aspirations for your children and/or did your parents have great aspirations for you? Share. What are the positives and negatives of having great personal aspirations, or of having great ambitions for your children?
2. Read Matthew 20:17-28. What great aspirations did the mother of John and James have for her sons?
3. She is generally criticized for what she asked Jesus for, but if you were to try to find something positive from her aspirations for her children what would you consider to be the most positive thing?
4. Does anything impress you about the way she makes her request of Jesus?
5. What was clearly wrong with this mother’s request though, and who else was caught up in her mistake or sin?
6. Are Jesus’ words in verse 22 a harsh rebuke, or gentle instruction, or something in between?
7. What limits are there on having great aspirations as Christians. Consider this question in relation to both worldly and spiritual goals? What would be some examples of worthwhile spiritual goals to have?
Christ-link
If we aspire to be truly great, what according to Jesus is the best way to achieve this goal and why do you think this is so?
Conclusion
We can ask boldly and aim high with confidence all we like (even until we are blue in the face), but if our aspirations are not according to God’s will they will not be granted. God is God. He is sovereign. He does desire great things for us, but the only sure way to be great now and forever is to follow the example of the one who came to serve, not to be served – our Lord Jesus Christ.