Quiet Times Search

1. The Obstacle of Greed - Luke 12:13-21 (Parable of the rich fool); Luke 16:19-31 (Rich man and Lazarus)
   1. Be on your guard against all kinds of greed. The value of a person's life has nothing to do with his financial worth.
   2. The rich fool's goal was financial independence and being independent of God. This is the 'American Dream."
   3. The rich man in Luke 16 went to hell because of his greed and unconcern about the needs of others.
2. The Obstacle of Discontentment - Philippians 4:10-13
   1. Paul rejoiced while he was in prison.
   2. He was grateful and content even in need.
   3. Paul did not focus on what he lacked, but rather on what he had (Christ).
   4. Also note 1 Timothy 6:6-10.

1. How am I storing up treasures for myself but not being rich toward God?
2. How am I showing concern for the poor/needy?
3. Am I grateful and content with what I have right now?
4. What griefs do I have in my life because of greed and discontentment?
   Examples:
   • Debt
   • High monthly payments
   • Bad credit record

1. Honor God with your Wealth - Proverbs 3:9
   1. Will I obey the scriptures
   2. Will I, as a mature Christian, increase my weekly giving?
2. Guard Your Heart - Proverbs 4:23
   1. What sins of the heart have I confronted and repented of in regard to my finances?
   2. Am I ready to give out of a pure heart and a sincere love for God?
3. A Living Sacrifice - Romans 12:1
   1. In what ways am I going to live a more sacrificial lifestyle in order to advance God's kingdom?
4. Give and It Will Be Given To You - Luke 6:38
   1. Have I made decisions to give by faith and to give joyfully to the Lord?
5. A Spirit of Self-Discipline - 2 Timothy 1:7
   1. Have I prepared a budget that I am ready to live by? If not, when will I have it completed?
   2. Have I sought input?
6. Free At Last - Romans 13:8
   1. Have I gained deep convictions about getting out of debt?
   2. What is my plan to eliminate sinful/foolish debt from my life?
7. A Light to the World - Matthew 5:14
   1. How am I going to work at my job in such a way that my life is an upward calling to everyone around me?
   2. Am I fulfilling my financial responsibilities as a disciple in the areas that God expects?

1. Yourself - 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
   1. We need to be financially independent in the sense that we take care of our own. As adults we should not be dependent on parents, family, friends, or the church except in rare instances.
   2. Non-Christians do not respect people who do not carry their weight financially. We hinder the spread of the Gospel if we are irresponsible with our finances.
2. Family - 1 Timothy 5:4-8
   1. Taking care of our family is one of the most basic responsibilities we have. If we fail, we deny the faith.
   2. Responsibility includes at least parents, grandparents, spouse, children, 7 brothers and sisters.
   3. It is right for us to repay our parents and grandparents.
3. Government - Romans 13:1-7
   1. We need to support the government through the payment of taxes.
   2. We pay not according to what we can get away with but what is right to pay.
4. The Church - 1 Cor 16:1-2
   1. Each one has the responsibility to take care of the church financially.
   2. Set aside on the first day of every week.
   3. Plan and save for special contributions.
5. The Poor - Luke 12:33; James 1:27

1. In which of the above areas am I not fulfilling my responsibilities?

• All Scripture is inspired by God, God-breathed
  
• Should be applied to our lives so that we can be ready for every spiritual challenge
  • Word used to learn what God says by teaching
  • Word used to correct things we are not doing
  • Word used to warn us by rebuking us
  • Word used to put things into practice through training
• Why should we go through this type of learning? Be thoroughly equipped for all good works

• The word of God is relevant and can expose and convict us of sin in our lives - not collecting dust somewhere
• It exposes us for what or who we are - Not everything in the Bible feels good at the time
  
• Sharper than any double edged sword - It can cut us, but its purpose is to cut out the bad, so that we can be healed - just like a surgeon’s scalpel.

• We need to watch how we live and what we teach - both essential to salvation
  
• Illustration: Which wing of an airplane is most important? So it is with what you teach and how you live out those beliefs.
  
• What is the result of careful attention to our life and doctrine?

• Jesus teaches these Jews that intellectual belief is not enough.
  
• He calls them to believe God enough to trust his will for their lives. This trust is demonstrated by the decision to live according to Jesus’ teaching.
  
• True faith is seen in our obedience.
• Notice when we will know the truth, after we obey.
  

• If the Bible is so powerful and helpful, why aren’t more people truly following what it says?
• Bottom line, we can not live according to our own feelings and desires.
  

• What is another hindrance to following God’s word? Tradition
  
• Religious tradition which takes precedence over the Word of God can result in worldly solutions to spiritual issues and make our worship of God empty and pointless.

• If you asked a person who is street smart or the person on Wall Street or just a person who watches a lot of TV, what is at the heart of the world’s wisdom about how to live?
  
  • “Look out for number one.”
    
  • “Get what you want.”
    
  • “Get the power, the pleasure, the control you want.”
    
  • “Get the money.”
    
  • “Protect yourself.”
    
  • “Guard your rights.”
    
  • “Maintain your independence.”
• And so what is at the center of man’s wisdom? Self! (See 2 Timothy 3:2)
  

• What is Jesus’ message? How is it the opposite of the world’s message?
  
  • Deny self– “disown” (Matthew 26:34). We renounce our old self, our old approach to life.
    
  • Take up the cross (instrument of death). Die to ourselves.
    
  • Follow Jesus. Make his life our model. Jesus life is a demonstration of his message.
    
• What does Jesus say will be the bottom line for those who “save their own lives”? For those who foolishly lose their lives for him?
  

• What is everything on the left side (world’s wisdom) called? Sin.
  
• What is everything on the right side (God’s wisdom) called? Love.
  
• How have you lived according the world’s wisdom?
  
• Have you ever made a decision to renounce it?
  
• Which side was Peter still on (though he was religious)?
  
• Which side are you on?

1. 2 Timothy 2:15 - We will be well equipped
2. 2 Timothy 3:17 - Workman who is not ashamed
3. 1 Peter 3:15 - Equipped for evangelism; able to answer questions.
4. 1 Corinthians 2:15-16 - We will have the mind of Christ (ie. Able to handle difficult situations as Christ would handle them. )
5. Matthew 4:4-10 - We will be able to fight off temptation and Satan.

4. Initiate in friendship

• Calls, cards, encouragement
• Need to be giving
• No “OK, here I am, now disciple me.”

5. Initiate in evangelism

• Bring people to older Christians to study with
• This is how you’ll learn to be abundantly fruitful

6. Initiate in thinking

• Learn to be independent thinkers, not independent spirit
• 1 Timothy 4:7 - Train yourself to be Godly

• 2 Timothy 1:7 - The Holy Spirit
• 2 Corinthians 3:12 - Hope
• Romans 1:16, 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 - Conviction

• Pride – being afraid of what others think
• Small convictions – not seeing people as lost
• Selfishness – not caring about the lost
• Faithlessness – doubting that the harvest is great

1. 2 Timothy 2:15 - We will be well equipped
2. 2 Timothy 3:17 - Workman who is not ashamed
3. 1 Peter 3:15 - Equipped for evangelism; able to answer questions.
4. 1 Corinthians 2:15-16 - We will have the mind of Christ (ie. Able to handle difficult situations as Christ would handle them. )
5. Matthew 4:4-10 - We will be able to fight off temptation and Satan.

1. Do not become lazy; this is a constant treat to the Christian life, to every Christian, young or old
2. Rather than imitate those who exhibit true faith and patience; there will always be good examples to imitate.

1. Singing - Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 3:19; James 5:13
   • To teach
   • To give thanks and express joy
   • To make music and praise God
2. The Lord’s Supper - 1 Corinthians 11:23-29
   • To remember - v24
   • To proclaim - v26
   • To examine - v28-29
   • On the first day of the week - Acts 20:7
3. Prayer - 1 Timothy 2:1-8
   • For peaceful and quiet lives (ie no persecution)
   • With hands (ie a holy life)
   • To advance the gospel - v4-6

• Generously - 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 9:6-11, Luke 16:13-16
• Weekly - 1 Corinthians 16:1
• To advance the gospel - Philippians 4:14-16, Titus 3:13-14
• To meet the saints’ needs - Romans 15:25-27, Acts 2:44-45

1. Evangelism - Philippians 2:14-16, Colossians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9
   
2. Serving
   • Serving food - Acts 6:1-4
   • Providing clothes - Acts 9:36-39
   • Looking after its orphans and widows - 1 Timothy 5:16, James 1:27
   • Showing hospitality - 1 Corinthians 16:5-6, 3 John 5-8, Hebrews 13:!2
   • 1 John 3:16-17, James 2:15-16, Matthew 25:34-36

• v12 - Everyone that want to live a Godly life will have to go through persecution
• Question: What do you think that means - being persecuted for living a Godly life?
• v14-15 - Apostle Paul instructs Timothy to continue to believe to believe in the scriptures because it is able to make you wise in the choices of life
• v4:4 - Bible says that people will start to listen to and follow man (ideas and myths) rather than God
• If we read the Bible daily then we will know God's will for our lives. If we don't we will start to follow what people say, think, and feel.
• Question: How can reading the Bible daily change your life? What happens if you don't read daily?
• Question: Why do you think God wants you to read his word daily? So you can know him!

• Jesus is talking to the Jewish people and tells them that is they don't hold to his teachings, then they are not really his disciples
• Just because someone acts religious or know a lot about the Bible does not mean they are following Jesus
• Question: What does Jesus say it takes to be his disciple? Then you'll know what? Then what?
• When you read someone's journal you get to know that person more and more each day - same goes for reading God's word
• Question: How often do you read the Bible?
• Challenge: Read the Bible daily and make one decision each day.

• The Apostle Paul tell Timothy that godliness through spiritual training by holding to his teachings has great value for this life and the next
• v10 - We must put our hope in God not self
  
• Question: What does the Bible say that we should set an example in? What area do you need to change the most?
• v16 - Your life and Bible must be equal (doctrine = beliefs)
• Not just know the Bible but live it out
• Do you have any questions so far? Do you understand so far?
• Question: Is this something you want to really go after every day?
• Briefly share about when you first started studying to be a disciple - the challenge, hope and desire

• Question: How do you think the Word is living and active today?
• The Bible judges the everything:
  • thoughts
  • attitudes
  • insecurities
  • criticalness
  • impurities
• Nothing is hidden from God sight. Do you realize that?

• God knows what you and I have done but he wants to help us get our lives in order
• The more we read, the more we understand God is merciful and loving
• He is serious about us changing our lives to fit His will vs us trying to change the Bible to fit our will

• Jesus is the ultimate reflection of God on earth
• Just as Jesus didn't come with a critical judgment = God does not either
• v46 - He shows us the way out of darkness - when we don't have a close relationship with him
• Question: What does Jesus say will actually judge us? God's words

1. Read the Bible daily so we can know him
2. We must apply the Bible to our lives, let it change us, and let our lives change others
3. Let's study the Bible together at least once a week for the next 3 weeks

• Question: What do you think the heart of what Jesus is saying in these scriptures?
• Question: Biblically speaking, because someone goes to church  does that make them a Christian? Are they a Christian because they are a good person? What if they know a lot about the Bible, does that make them a Christian?
• That means you are saying that the majority of people in the world are lost. How does that make you feel?
• Make God feel said but God has a plan for them - 1 Timothy 2:1-6

• v22 - The miracles Jesus did proves he was God's son
• v23 - He died on the cross for your sin
• v24 - God raised him from the dead
  

• Confess with your mouth (acknowledging God and everyone around you that you nor anything else will be the Lord of your life,expect Jesus)
• It is not the confession that justifies you, it is your heart that God is looking at.

• All Authority - Matthew 28:18; Colossians 2:10
• Called God by James - James 2:1
• Called God by John - 1 John 5:20; Revelation 1:18; Revelation 19:16
• Called God by Jude - Jude 25
• Called God by Paul - Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:15-17; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16; Titus 2:13
• Called God by Peter - 1 Peter 3:22; 2 Peter 1:17
• Forgives sins - Mark 2:5
• Judges - John 5:22
• Knew All things - John 21:17

Commands found in the New Testament:

• Abstain from sinful desires - 1 Peter 2:11
• Always be prepared to preach the Word - 2 Timothy 4:2
• Avoid foolish arguments about the law - Titus 3:9
• Avoid evil - 1 Thessalonians 5:22
• Avoid godless chatter - Timothy 2:15
• Avoid false and opposing ideas - 1 Timothy 6:20
• Avoid troublemakers - Romans 16:17-18
• Be able to teach - 2 Timothy 2:24

• Be alert and self controlled - 1 Thessalonians 5:6
• Be an example in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity - 1 Timothy 4:12
• Be anxious for nothing - Philippians 4:6
• Be content with what you have - Hebrews 13:5
• Be willing to associate with those in low position - Romans 12:2
• Be joyful always - 1 Thessalonians 5:16
• Be kind to everyone - 2 Timothy 2:24
• Be patient with everyone - 1 Thessalonians 5:14

• Do not store you treasures on earth - Matthew 6:19
• Do good to all people - Galatians 6:10
• Do good you know you ought to do - James 4:17
• Do what the Word of God says - James 1:22
• Do not fight - 2 Timothy 2:24
• Do not cause anyone to stumble - 1 Corinthians 10:32
• Do not fear man - Luke 12:4-5
• Encourage daily - Hebrews 3:13

• Honor your father and mother - Matthew 19:19
• Let your "Yes" be a yes and your "No" be a no - James 5:12
• Live in harmony with one another - Romans 12:16
• Love one another - John 13:34-35
• Must not quarrel - 2 Timothy 2:24
• Pray continuously - 1 Thessalonians 5:17
• Pray for persecutors - Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:28
• Rejoice in the Lord - Philippians 3:1
• Rejoice in your trails - James 1:2-3

• Resist the devil - James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9
• Stand firm in the faith - 1 Corinthians 15:58; 1 Corinthians 16:13;1 Peter 5:9
• Store treasures in heaven - Matthew 6:20-21
• Submit to the governing authorities - Romans 13:1
• Submit yourself to God - James 4:7
• Submit yourself to each other - Ephesians 5:21
• Test everything - 1 Thessalonians 5:21
• Walk with the Spirit - Galatians 5:25
• Warn those who are idle - 1 Thessalonians 5:14
• Watch your life and your doctrine closely - 1 Timothy 4:16

• Abounds In Goodness - Psalms 31:19; Psalms 52:1; Romans 11:22
• All Powerful - Jeremiah 32:17, 27
• All Knowing - 1 John 3:20
• Does Not Change - Numbers 23:19; Malachi 3:6; James 1:17
• Eternal - Deuteronomy 33:27; Psalms 90:2; 1 Timothy 1:17

• Holy - Psalms 99:9
• Incomprehensible - Psalms 145:3; Romans 11:33
• Infinite - Jeremiah 23:24; Psalms 147:5
• Invisible - 1 Timothy 1:17
• Just In All His Judgment - Nehemiah 9:32-33; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-7

• Apostle - Hebrews 3:1
• Arm of the Lord - Isaiah 51:9; 53:1
• Author and Finisher or our faith - Hebrews 12:2
• Beginning of the creation of God - Revelation 3:14
• Blessed and only Potentate - 1 Timothy 6:15
• Branch - Jeremiah 23:5; Zechariah 3:8; 6:12
• Bread of Life - John 6:35,48

• King - Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:5
• King of Israel - John 1:49
• King of Kings - 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14; 19:16
• King of Saints - Revelation 15:3
• King of the Jews - Matthew 2:2
• Lamb - Revelation 5:6,12; 13:8; 21:22; 22:3
• Lamb of God - John 1:29,36

• Lord of all - Acts 10:36
• Lord of glory - 1 Corinthians 2:8
• Lord of Lords - Revelation 19:16
• Lord Our Righteouss - Jeremiah 23:6
• Mediator between God and men - 1 Timothy 2:5
• Messenger of the covenant - Malachi 3:1
• Messiah - Daniel 9:25; John 1:41

• Plant of renown - Ezekiel 34:29
• Prince of life - Acts 3:15
• Prince of peace - Isaiah 9:6
• Prince of the kings of the earth - Revelation 1:5
• Prophet - Luke 24:19; John 7:40
• Ransom - 1 Timothy 2:6
• Redeemer - Job 19:25; Isaiah 59:20; 60:16

Starting to study the names of the church as

• Assembly of the saints - Psalms 89:7
• Assembly of the upright - Psalms 111:1
• Body of Christ - Ephesians 1:22,23; Colossians 1:24
• Branch of God's planting - Isaiah 60:21
• Bride of Christ - Revelation 21:9
• Church of God - Acts 20:28
• Church of the Living God - 1 Timothy 3:15
• Church of the first-born - Hebrews 12:23

• Holy city - Revelations 21:2
• Holy mountain - Zechariah 8:3
• Holy hill - Psalms 15:1
• House of God - 1 Timothy 3:15; Hebrews 10:21
• House of the God of Jacob - Isaiah 2:3
• House of Christ - Hebrews 3:6
• Household of God - Ephesians 2:19

1. Pillar and ground of the truth - 1 Timothy 3:15
2. Sanctuary of God - Psalms 114:2
3. Spiritual house - 1 Peter 2:5
4. Spouse of Christ - Song of Solomon 4:12; 5:1
5. Sought out, a city not forsaken - Isaiah 62:12
6. Temple of God - 1 Corinthians 3:16,17
7. Temple of the Living God - 2 Corinthians 6:16
8. Vineyard - Jeremiah 12:10; Matthew 21:41

• Believers - Acts 5:14; 1 Timothy 4:12
• Beloved of God - Romans 1:7
• Beloved brethren - 1 Corinthians 15:58; James 2:5
• Blessed of the Lord - Genesis 24:31; 26:29
• Blessed of the Father - Matthew 25:34
• Brethren - Matthew 23:8; Acts 12:17
• Brethren of Christ - Luke 8:21; John 20:17
• Called of Jesus Christ - Romans 1:6

• Members of Christ - 1 Corinthians 6:15; Ephesians 5:30
• Men of God - Deuteronomy 33:1; 1 Timothy 6:11; 2 Timothy 3:17
• Obedient children - 1 Peter 1:14
• Peculiar people - Deuteronomy 14:2; Titus 2:14; 1 Peter 2:9
• Peculiar treasure - Exodus 19:5; Psalms 135:4
• People of God - Hebrews 4:9; 1 Peter 2:10

• The Lord's freemen - 1 Corinthians 7:22
• Trees of righteousness - Isaiah 61:3
• Vessels to honor - 2 Timothy 2:21
• Vessels of mercy - Romans 9:23
• Witnesses for God - Isaiah 44:8

1. How closely are you looking at how you live?
2. Why should you always watch what you are doing?
3. How would your life change if you were always watchful?

1. Your time
2. Your money
3. Your feelings
4. Anything else of yours that you value

• 1 Thessalonians 4:1 - we instructed you how to live in order to please God; urge you to do this more and more
• Colossians 1:10 - we pray you live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way
• 2 Timothy 2:4 - No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs
• Hebrews 11:6 - Without faith it is impossible to please God
• 2 Corinthians 5:9 - So we make it our goal to please him

• Luke 2:49 - "Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?
• John 6:38 - For I have come down from heaven

• John 3:17  - God sent his son to save the world through him.
• Luke 19:10 - For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.
• Matthew 9:13 - I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners
• 1 Timothy 1:15 - Jesus came into the world to save sinners
• 1 John 3:5 - He appeared so that he might take away our sins

• 2 Corinthians 5:20 - We are therefore Christ's ambassadors,
• Timothy 2:6-7 - Pointed out those who have wandered away
• John 17:18 - As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.

• Romans 1:14-16 - Was eager to preach the gospel
  
• 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 - Preached the ministry of reconciliation

• 1 Corinthians 9:19 - To become what he needed to become to win as many as possible
• 1 Corinthians 9:12 - We put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ
• 2 Timothy 2:10 - Endure everything for the sake of the elect
• ~2 Corinthians 11:22-33 - Endured and worked harder than anyone
• 2 Corinthians 12:15 - Gladly spends for you everything

• Romans 9:1-3 - He wish he could paid the price for them
  
• Romans 10:1 - My heart's desire for you to be saved
  
• Galatians 4:19 - Was in pains of childbirth for their salvation

• Acts 20:22-24 - It was everything to him to finish the race
• 2 Corinthians 11:28 - Felt daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches
• Colossians 1:28-29 - Struggled with all his energy

a. He utilized every opportunity.
b. He created opportunities for evangelism

• Luke 18:11 - Prayer: I thank you that I am not like other men
• Philippians 3:19 - Their god is their stomach
• 2 Timothy 3:2 - People will be lovers of themselves

• 2 Timothy 3:4 - Lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God
• Proverbs 21:17 - He who loves pleasure will become poor
• 1 Timothy 5:6 - But the widow who lives for pleasure is dead

• Galatians 5:16 - Live by the Spirit and not our sinful desires
• Ephesians 4:19 - Lost all sensitivity

• Romans 15:1-3 - Bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves
  
• 1 Corinthians 8:9, 9:12, 22 - Become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some
  
• 1 Corinthians 10:24, 33, 13:5 - Not seeking my own good but the good of many,
  
• 2 Corinthians 8:9, 12:15 - We become poor so other can become rich
  
• 2 Timothy 2:10 - Endure everything for the sake of others
  
• Philippians 2:3-4, 20-21 - Look at the interests of others

• 2 Timothy 2:4 -Soldier don't get involved in civilian affairs
• Colossians 1:10 - Live a life worthy of the Lord
  
• 1 Thessalonians 4:1 - Live in order to please God
  
• Matthew 16:23 - Peter, at this time, was not focus on the greater things of God
  
• John 4:34, 5:30, 36, 6:38, 9:4, 17:4 - My foo is to do the will of him who sent me

• Philippians 2:19-22, 25-30 - Timothy had a genuine interest in the welfare of others
  
• Galatians 5:13-15 - Serve one another in love.
  
• Mark 6:34 - He had compassion on the

• Unapproachable light - 1 Timothy 1:17
• Abba, father - Romans 8:15

• Airplanes designed after birds
• Lunar lander with ant-like legs
• Solar panels use the sun's rays like plants

• Realize how little we know
• Realize how little we are in control

A. What does it mean to “flee” from something?
     To desperately run away from something dangerous (a murderer, predator, etc…)
B. What does it mean to “pursue” something?
     To move toward something with all your strength

• How much is a hint? Are there any hints in your life?
•  What does God call us to replace impurity with?

* We overcome sin by meditating on God’s precepts (word) and following his statues.

* God wants you to be pure and holy, he’s given you his word and spiritual brothers and sisters to help you on your spiritual journey.

• Lying is against God’s nature (character)
• His enemy (Satan) is the Father of lies (John 8:44)

• When we lie we are using Satan’s weapons
• When we decide to tell the truth over lies we are choosing God over Satan

1. We should never make pack (agreement) to conceal the truth
2. We should strive to please God (speak the truth) not Satan (lie)
3. If you tell the truth you don’t have to have a good memory (lies create more lies)

• In proverbs it refers to the person who hates correction (pride makes us stupid)
  
• When we are unwilling to receive godly correction we are trusting our own way over that of our advisors (this type of pride makes us stupid)
  

• Physically: We have an illness = we go see an expert doctor, to ignore his advice and handle the situation on our own would be stupid
• Spiritually: We face temptations and challenging situations = we should seek advice from spiritually minded people (they may advice us something simple like, read these scriptures or something radical like change jobs) but to ignore experienced spiritual advice would be stupid. Even if you don’t like it (pray about it, get another “experienced” opinion)

• Type A: Listens on the outside (even nod your head “yes”) but on the inside all systems are shut down.
• Type B: You are calm on the outside but on the inside you’re steaming mad ready to explode and interrupt (who do they think they are)
• Type C: Listens and really tries to understand (learn) not just say OK but embrace the input to become a better disciple

Summary

God formed a man and gave him the garden in Eden, except for the tree of knowledge. Adam was alone so God made a woman as his partner.

Observations

Genesis 2:7 - from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life
From nothing, God created us. He even takes our language that is a collection of organized means and breathed [2 Timothy 3:16] it into living and active Holy scripture [Hebrews 4:12].

Genesis 2:15 - put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.
Man's purpose in the garden was to work it and keep it up. God gives us work to do in step with what he desires. Work is good for glorify God, helping others, and helping us in our character. In [Acts 17:26], we learn that God determines the times and places we will live. It wasn't a random chance that Adam was placed in the Garden of Eden even with God's fore knowledge of Adam's sin.

Genesis 2:16 - You are free
The first words recorded spoken to man was "You are free". This is important because without freedom, love can not be fully expressed. God created man for Him to love and to be loved by man. What are we doing with the life and freedom God has given us? Does he feel the love?

Genesis 2:17 - you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil,
The sinful nature within us desires the opposite of what God wants. When it hears about something we can not do, that is the exact thing it desires to do.

Genesis 2:19 - whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name
With our freedom, we are given responsibilities. Instead of just telling us what the names of the animals and plants we, God gave Adam the task and freedom to do so. We need to remember all the things God intrusts us with and give it our all.

Personal Application

Many times I look for ways on how to automate work (it is part of the work I do as part of my career) but sometimes lose sight that work is what I am suppose to be doing. When automating tasks, I need to make sure I am using my additional time to do even more useful things that God has called me to do.

Summary

Three visitors came and said that Sarah would have a son next year. Sodom was very evil; Abraham pleaded with the LORD for the city.

Observations

Genesis 18:14 - Is anything too hard for the LORD?
This is a good question to ask ourselves in times where we doubt God in anyway. Sarai doubted that she would become pregnant because of how old she was. Mary may have been thinking of this scripture when the angel came to her saying she would become pregnant as a virgin - her reaction was much more faithful. Bog came do much more than we can ask or imagine [Ephesians 3:20].

Genesis 18:32 - For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it
God wants all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth [1 Timothy 2:4]. It is the reason God will waiting out all the evil and sin that is in the world. He is looking and searching out those who will changing their ways and love him back. Who around us is looking for God?

Personal Application

I doubt God way too much (once is too much )and I do probably everyday - I am doing it right now. God is god, he can do anything. Yes, even that. I have got to stop making God smaller in my mind. Every time that I think I have an understanding how big and strong he is - God is beyond that. He greater than I can imagine.

• Romans 2:17-24 - Hypocrisy in religion has turned many away from the real God
• Matthew 23:1-4 - Ungodly authorities can cause us to view God in similar ways
• Deuteronomy 4:4-8 - Those who could have taught us did not, or they did it incorrectly

• John 4:21-24 - We didn’t know what the Bible said
• 2 Timothy 4:1-4 - We were looking for the easy way, not the right way
• Proverbs 14:15 - We were too simple and believed things too quickly and easily

• Romans 5:6-8 - God was patient and loved us while we were enemies of His
• Ephesians 2:1-5 - We were objects of wrath; deserving to be squished (cockroach example)
• 1 Timothy 1:12-17 - We were shown unlimited patience, making it possible to have a chance

• Titus 3:3-7 - You were justified by grace at your baptism; nothing you did earned it
• Hebrews 10:19-22 - Your baptism gave you full assurance of God’s grace
• Acts 2:38-41 - You were forgiven, got the Holy Spirit, added to God’s kingdom – by grace

• Philippians 4:6 - Start your prayer times every day with your thankful list
• 1 Timothy 4:4 - Be grateful for everything God has provided you with – even the basics

• Romans 1:21 - Not thanking God can lead to involvement in other sinful areas
• Luke 17:11-19 - Not thanking God for the blessings you receive is selfish

• 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - Be thankful in all circumstances, whether great or challenging
• Ephesians 5:19-20 - Always be thankful-for all things (make a list of 200 thing to be grateful)

• 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 - Crave the Bible; it will show you what you need in your walk with God
• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - The Bible will equip you and give you all you need to grow (Psalms 119)

• Ephesians 4:11-16 - God has put them in your life to help you grow; church, midweek, etc
• Hebrews 13:7 - Watch you leaders and follow their example; ask lots of questions

• 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10 - All of us lack something in our faith; get together and help each other
• Romans 15:14 - Other disciples may know the Bible better and can help you through your challenges

• Proverbs 4:10-15 - We must make daily decisions to turn away from evil
• Proverbs 4:23-27 - Our hearts either keep us healthy or harm us spiritually; life or death

• Hebrews 3:12-14 - Sin hardens (diseases) our heart and turns us from God
• Mark 4:14-20 - Sin and worldliness can choke us from breathing normal

• Proverbs 7:6-27 - Be careful to stay away from tempting situations you could have avoided
• 1 Corinthians 15:33-34 - Don’t spend time with the wrong people or in the wrong places
• 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1 - Break off any serious union with those who don’t share your convictions
• 2 Timothy 2:22-23 - Run away if you need to; it is not weak to realize you are weak

1. How were you powerless when Christ died for you?
2. What proves God's incredible love for you?

1. Why do we need to be reminded about our old way of life?
2. What did you do to earn God's forgiveness?
3. How should you respond to the grace of God?
4. Describe how you can be self-controlled and eager to do good works.

1. Why did Jesus have to make a choice between his physical and spiritual family?
2. Who are the people you are closest to? What choices do you have to make? Are God's people REALLY your family?

1. What is "sincere love"? How can you love deeply, from the heart?
2. Who have you loved this much in your life before? How does your love for the disciples need to grow?

1. What are some worldly ways you have looked at people before?
2. How do you need to change your way of seeing people? (Be specific)

1. Why do some people like to quarrel about words and spread their own ideas around? Do you ever quarrel about words? Have you talked about it with another disciple?
2. How can you train yourself to be an approved workman?
3. Have you been involved in any discussions lately about God's word or the church that were pointless or even harmful?

1. How can you fight the good fight?
2. How can a disciple "shipwreck" their faith?
3. Remember Hymenaeus (2 Timothy 2:17-18) and Alexander (2 Timothy 4:14-15).

1. Are you watching daily your life (as a disciple) and your doctrine (understanding the Bible)?
2. Has anyone noticed changes in you?

1. What kind of heart does God want us to have?
2. What qualities of children do we need to imitate?

1.  Who is "over you" in the Lord?
2. Does it have anything to do with age or education?
3. Write the names of some Christians who work hard, set a good example and admonish you.
4. Are you showing them respect?
5. What kind of disciples need special help (vs. 14)?
6. Have you been admonishing for any of these problems?

1. What gives us real maturity and understanding?
2. How is verse 100 opposite of how our society thinks?
3. What should your attitude be when you are being taught/corrected by someone younger than yourself?

1. How did Jesus show the full extent of his love?
2. What was he trying to teach his disciples?
3. How can we obey verse 17?
4. Give specific examples.

1. Why was Dorcas so loved by everyone?
2. Who were her "special friends"?
3. Why do you think she did so much for them?
4. If you died today, what would you be remembered for?
5. What can we learn from Dorcas' life?

1. What made Timothy different from the others?
2. What shows a genuine interest in the welfare of others?
3. How can you be more like Timothy?

1. Why do some people scoff (mock) at the promise of Christ's return?
2. What will the "day of the Lord" be like?
3. Are you living as though Jesus could come back TODAY?

1. Will there be any "second chance" for those who are not ready to meet the Lord?
2. Why will this day be like "a thief in the night"?
3. What does it mean to be alert and self-controlled?

1. How does Paul feel about facing the Lord on judgement day?
2. Why is living for Jesus like fighting the good fight, finishing the race and keeping the faith?
3. What kind of effort does it take to be this way to the end?

1. What does God promise to those who seek him with all their hearts?
2. Are you seeking him or something else?

1. What should make you content?
2. What will a desire for money and things do to your life?
3. How does someone "wander" from the faith?
4. What other desires could make us wander?

1. What do you learn from this widow's example?
2. Think of at least 3 reasons she could have given to be "stingy".

1. Have you decided to give generously to God?
2. Are you giving that amount regularly?
3. What does God promise to those who give freely?
4. How does your giving benefit others, God, and yourself?

1. What is Christ's "strategy" for evangelizing the world?
2. Describe a reliable disciple. Are you reliable in terms of keeping appointments, keeping time, following instructions?
3. How are you to follow the example of a soldier, an athlete and a farmer? Be specific.
4. Would Timothy or Paul have chosen you to teach others? Why?

1. How is the Christian life like running a race?
2. What happens if an athlete does not train or "beat" his body?
3. What happens if you do not train and discipline yourself as a disciple?

Summary

In Gerar Abraham said, "Sarah is my sister." King Abimelech took her but God warned him in a dream. He restored Sarah to Abraham.

Observations

Genesis 20:3 - You are as good as dead because of the woman you have taken
God's anger was revealed here once again. King Abimelech had no idea that he was sinning. However, just because we are not aware does not mean were without sin.  In fact, we may have sinned serveral time already today without knowing or being aware. We need just Jesus so much. Wheather it is for the strength to be righteous or the forgiveness of a mulitude of sins.

Genesis 20:6 - I know that you have done this with a clear conscience
God considers our lives and our hearts when he judges. Our hearts are central to our connection with God. King Abimelech had no intention to take a married woman to be his wife, he did it with a clear conscience. God provided a way out way out for him as he does for all those who are tempted. [1 Corinthians 10:13].

Personal Application

I usually don't have an issue with knowing right from wrong. It is usually that I am not aware of what I am doing. I am either not paying attention or not focused. I need to watch my life closely so I will be righteous in God's eyes and so others can be saved because of it [1 Timothy 4:16].

1. Love learning
2. Never quit (emotionally or spiritually)
3. Sacrifice of time and resources entrusts my heart to God

They need to see Jesus - Deuteronomy 6:1-9

God did not want his people to forget him

What did he want them to remember?

• How God helped them
• Obey all his commands
• To fear him
• Love God with everything we have

All these things he still wants us to remember

In what ways can we show our kids, Jesus?

• Incorporate your children in the things you do
• Talk about God / ask them thought provoking questions
• Read the Bible to them /
• Pray with them

v 20-24 - The questions will come; opportunities to share more

With a Watchful Eye - 1 Timothy 4:15-16

 They will not be a Christian and stay a Christian by chance

God is a consuming fire who should be feared - Hebrews 12:29

He is God who wants us to love him and not idols - Deuteronomy 4:24

God is a blessed and only Ruler, king of kings and lord of Lords - 1 Timothy 6:15

Our problem is that we think God is like us
My thoughts are not your thoughts - Isaiah 55:8

Societies throughout history have developed their own relgions based off God's which human resemblance:

• Greek methoology is full of sinful gods
• Hinduism feature gods who remind of ourselves

Our Father is without blemish or stain
In fact many can say, if God is like my father, I want nothing to do with Him

God appeared to Ezekiel in blazing fire and he fell facedown - Ezekiel 1:27-28
John saw Jesus with eyes of blazing fire and fell at his feet as though he was dead - Revelation 1:14-16T

The paradox of God: He says to not be afraid but at the same time to have a humble, contrite spirit - Isaiah 66:2
When a holy God confronts sinful humans, the only result can be fear and trembling