Cornerstone Leaders Talksheet

The Compassion of God

2010-09-03T12:41:00.000-06:00

CG Discussion Questions

1. How do you define compassion? Who is a good example of someone who shows compassion? How have you been shown compassion in the past?
2. Reread Isaiah 63:7-16. Verse 9 says that in the midst of distress, God too is distressed. In what way is God distressed and how does He enter into our distress?
3. Verse 9 also communicates a very tender image of God lifting His people up and carrying them. Have you ever bent down and carried someone in need? Can you think of a time that God has done that for you?
4. Reread verse 15. The Israelites were not experiencing the compassion of God. Why not? What are we to learn from their experience?
5. Read Luke 7:11-17. What stands out the most to you about this narrative? What might that widow say to people about Jesus after that day?
6. Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-5. Based on these verses, Who or what is the source of our comfort as well as the purpose for which we have been comforted?
7. Do you need to experience God’s comfort and compassion? Share your trial with your group, giving others an opportunity to either pray for you or to comfort you with the comfort they have received from God.

Bonus:
If your group has additional time or desire, read John 14:1-27.
1. Why were the disciples scared?
2. How would God provide for them in their time of fear?
3. How is the Holy Spirit described in this passage?
4. What implications do these verses have for us as Spirit-filled Christians?

What Isaiah Would Say Today About Jesus.

2010-08-26T08:40:00.000-06:00

Read 1 Peter 1: 10-12 and discuss.

1. If Isaiah lived today, what do you think he would say about the book of Isaiah?

2. What do you think his relationship with Jesus would be like?

3. What do you believe would encourage him most about the believers in Cornerstone?

4. What would discourage him?

5. How should studying Isaiah embolden our faith and fill us with joy?

Isaiah 65-66

2010-08-20T13:43:00.000-06:00

1) What are the three types of relationship that were broken by sin in
the opening chapters of Genesis? What is an example of one of these
that you have faced recently?
2) In 65:17-25, in what ways do we see the curse of sin being reversed
in the New Heaven and New Earth?
3) How does the above passage compare to Revelation 21:1-4? Do they
contradict each other on whether there is death in the New Earth? Is
it signficant that the heavenly city comes down to earth rather than
us escaping earth to Heaven?
4) Why do you think both Revelation and Isaiah make a point of
describing those excluded from the new city God will create?
5) Look at the following passages that we did not cover in the sermon
in depth. How does each one relate to the main themes of the passage?
a) Chapter 65:13-16
b) Chapter 66:1-6
c) Chapter 66: 7-12
d) Chapter 66:13-17
6) How will our lives be different if we are confident of the truth of
these passages and think about that truth often?

Isaiah 63-64

2010-08-13T12:04:00.001-06:00

1. When you think of your father, what are the first pictures that come to your mind?

2. When you think of Jesus, what is the first picture that comes to your mind? How do you see Him? Describe that picture as best you can.

3. Read Isa. 63:1-6. What are your first impressions? Do any initial questions come to mind?

4. What’s the deal with Edom and Bozrah? Who does Edom represent?

5. As a group, reread these verses and jot down phrases that describe this One coming from Edom. To Whom is this passage portraying?

6. Read Revelation 19:11-18. How does this picture of Jesus compare or contrast with the one that first came to your mind?

7. What are some of the benefits of a more complete picture of Jesus? What are some downfalls of emphasizing His love and mercy and excluding His anger, wrath, power, and judgment?

8. As a result of the message and this group discussion, how is God calling you to apply this passage? Is there something you should do differently, an attitude that needs to change, or some other point of application?

9. Close in prayer, worshipping Jesus, the One Who is both the Lion and the Lamb.

Isaiah 54-55

2010-07-22T10:44:00.001-06:00

1. Share about an incident when you shared the gospel with someone. In particular- How did they respond? What was the biggest hurdle for them to overcome in trusting Jesus?
2. What are objects, people, ideas, things, etc., other than God, that you pursue to find satisfaction?
3. What percentage of people would describe themselves as "wicked?" What percentage would you describe as "wicked?" What makes a person wicked in our eyes? In God's eyes? (Optional question- Are you wicked?)
4. In reading verses 55:10-11 what do these say about God? God's promises? God's word? How should knowing these things affect our daily living?
5. What is Isaiah saying in the second half of verse 55:13?
6. Have you accepted the Invitation of life from God to you? If no, Why not? If yes, when was the last time you shared the Invitation with someone else?

Isaiah 42-43

2010-06-25T19:58:00.001-06:00

CG Leader Discussion Questions

1. What is the one thing that Troy discovered about God that we all have in common with Him that comes natural to us?

2. What is the problem with this thing we share "in common"?

3. What are some idols in your life?

4. How should understanding this passage change the "way" and the "reason" we worship God?

Isaiah 40-41

2010-06-18T06:49:00.002-06:00

Discussion Questions:

1. What did the people of God do to earn/deserve the punishment they were receiving by being taken captive to Babylon? What have we learned about them in Isaiah so far?

2. When we say that "God's goal is not punishment, but redemption," what do we mean by that? How does that help us?

3. In 40:3-11 there are three "voices" crying out some truths about God. What are each telling us about God?

4. Isaiah is painting a picture in our minds with 40:27-31. What picture does it paint in your mind?

5. Read back over the way God is described in Isaiah 40. Find an aspect that especially stands out to you. Why?

6. Pray that aspect of God back to Him (everyone pick one and pray).

Isaiah 36-39

2010-06-14T11:43:00.001-06:00

CG Discussion Questions:

1.When was the last time you were confronted with an overwhelming situation where you literally had no idea what to do? What did you do? Share with the group.

2.Read Isa. 36:4-22 (long section). Describe how you would have been feeling had you been an Israelite on the city wall, listening to the taunts of the enemy.

3.Why do you suppose Hezekiah turned to Isaiah? When was the last time you poured out your heart to another Christian man or woman about how you are REALLY doing?

4.Read Isa. 37:14-20. Having received a new threat in the form of a letter, what did Hezekiah do? What was the basis of his confidence? How can your prayers change to reflect this confidence?

5.Read Isa. 37:36-38. Be amazed at the ease with which God can answer prayer.

6.Read Isa. 38:1-8 and then 39:5-8. How could Hezekiah go from such urgent prayer for himself to an almost total disregard for the fate of his own children? How might we also plummet from the heights of desperation for God to utter disregard for those we should love?

7.While Hezekiah models faith in the face of the Assyrian threat, he fails as well with pride and a lack of love towards those he leads. How is Isaiah preparing his audience for the upcoming Messiah?

8.Get honest with prayer. Spend at least 20-30 minutes calling upon God together. Only our pride stands in the way.

Isaiah 28-35

2010-06-04T11:59:00.001-06:00

1. Why is it so difficult for us to truly Trust in God?

2. What kind of things do we tend to put our trust in?

3. Do you hear the voice of God saying to you, "this is the way, walk in it?(Isaiah 30:21)" Explain.

4. What is your reaction to the challenge of the elder team?

5. What steps of obedience do you believe Christ is calling you to?

Isaiah 13-27

2010-05-28T15:18:00.000-06:00

1. As a group, what do you remember about Egypt and their interactions with the Jews?

2. Read Isaiah 19:1-4. When it came to a threatening invasion, what did Egypt put their trust in? In times of crisis, where do people tend to put their trust? Share a recent crisis when you didn’t first put your trust in God. In what did you initially place your trust?

3. Read Isaiah 19:5-15. According to these verses, where else did Egypt place their trust? How was this an expression of independence and not dependence on God?

4. Like Egypt, how might you and I place our trust in finances and the voice others in times of overwhelming crisis?

5. Read 19:16-25. Beginning in verse 16, Isaiah begins using the phrase, “In that day”, to describe tremendous events in the future. What are some of Isaiah’s amazing predictions?

6. Reread 19:23-25. If you were a Jew, how excited would you be to hear that your past enemy, Egypt, and your present enemy, Assyria, will one day be profoundly blessed by God ahead of you? What does that say about your heart?

7. God will punish the sin and pride of all and He will bless all who humbly turn to Him. What area of pride or self-confidence do you need to confess to this group? Is God revealing any other actions you need to take or attitudes that He wants to change in you?

Isaiah 7-12

2010-05-20T20:09:00.002-06:00

To Whom Will We Turn?

Read Isaiah 7:1-9. What do you remember about the historical context? Who are the main characters? What is about to happen? What nations are represented and what role do they play in the story?

Have you had many "crisis moments" where you were challenged to look to God ... or try to go it alone? Describe one of these crisis moments to the group.

How are we to understand prophecies like we find in Isaiah 7:10-14? When we talk about a "near / far" relationship in these prophecies, what does that mean?

Read 8:19 - 9:7. A people who were very lost and very godless suddenly found themselves in the light of the gospel - in the face of Jesus! Talk about the hope that this story should bring us.

Does anyone remember the story of Gideon from the book of Judges? Go back and find it and reflect on why it is referenced by Isaiah.

Jesus is given four beautiful names in 9:6. What do those names/titles mean and how do they impact your faith? How should they specifically be considered as you enter "crisis moments?"

What will it take?

2010-05-13T08:14:00.003-06:00

Isaiah 2-6 Questions:

1) What is the greatest experience you have ever had with God?

2) At what level do you feel like you are encountering God regularly? Explain. Is the experience you are having with God what you desire? Is is what He desires?

3) What would have to happen in your life for you to be totally willing to do "whatever" God was desiring for you to do?

Isaiah Begins!

2010-05-07T11:04:00.001-06:00

Opening question: when you heard we were going to study Isaiah, what
was your reaction?

1) Have you had "wow" experiences of worship that left your life unchanged?
2) What does it mean to say that God is "the Holy One of Israel?"
3) What are tangible ways we could pursue justice?
4) What are the two paths we can choose between? Where does each lead?
5) When you read the opening verses of chapter 2, does the knowledge
that God will eventually bring peace and justice to the world
encourage you to pursue peace and justice even more, or does it cause
you to become complacent?
6) (If you have extra time) How does this passage compare to Romans 6:1?

Hello my name is Cornerstone: CG Discussions

2010-03-23T10:39:00.002-06:00

Connection Group Discussions for, “Hello, My Name is Cornerstone Church”

For the weeks surrounding this series, we’re asking Connection Groups to have discussion both prior to and after each sermon. In other words, discuss what you heard in the most recent sermon AND preview the topic for the following week. The following can be used as a guide – just a starting point – to give you some direction:

The week before the sermon  Invite the people in your group to begin thinking about the topic before they hear the sermon. Help people to gauge where they are in relationship to the specific topic. What is their understanding of the topic going into the study? What is there practice of it? What do they lack (understanding, obedience, etc.)? Also, read over the passage that will be used in the sermon and discuss it as well.

In the meeting following the sermon that covers the topic  Find out what people learned. Did it answer their questions? Did it impact them or affect change in them?

Some starter-questions…

Prayer (Key text: Luke 11:1-13)
Prior to the sermon:
1. Try to define “prayer” in one sentence.
2. How often do you pray?
3. What does prayer look like in your life (what do you do)?

After the sermon:
1. What was one new insight you gained concerning prayer?
2. Is there something specific you think you’ll do in your prayer life?
3. How can our Connection Group grow in the area of prayer?

The Gospel (Key text: Romans 3:21-26)
Prior to the sermon:
1. If someone were to ask you, “What is the bottom line message of the Bible?” what would you tell them?
2. As a group, make a list of all the key terms related to the gospel. Once you’ve listed them, narrow down to the 3-5 most important. (This will help to clarify the central truths of the gospel).

After the sermon:
1. Go back and use the same questions (above) and see if you’d change anything.
2. How do churches or Christians mess the gospel up? How do we confuse people when telling them the gospel?
3. Ask yourself, “Have I understood the true gospel before now?” When?

The Bible (Key text: Psalm 19)
Prior to the sermon:
1. What did your commitment to the Bible look like growing up? What about now?
2. What motivates people to know and apply the teachings of the Bible?
3. What motivates you personally to know and apply the teachings of the Bible?

After the sermon:
1. Based on Psalm 19, what motivations are given to know and apply the teachings of the Bible? Share specific verses.
2. What practical lifestyle change could you make to better know God through the Scriptures?
3. How will the members of this connection group help you to follow through with this?

Baptism & Communion (Key text: Acts 8:26-40 / 1 Cor. 11:17-34)
Prior to the sermon:
1. If you were raised going to church, what traditions did you have in regard to baptism and communion?
2. What did you think that theses practices did for you – what was the purpose?
3. Have each one take a 3x5 card and on one side write the Biblical purpose for baptism and on the other side write the Biblical purpose for communion. Share your findings and discuss them.
4. Read the key passages (above) together.

After the sermon:
1. Has your understanding of these practices changed? How so?
2. Have you been baptized? When? For the right reasons?
3. How will you enter into times of communion from now on?
4. Consider having communion together – or at least put it on the calendar for a future meeting. Talk about what would make it meaningful in your group.

Growth (Key text: Phil. 3:7-14)
Prior to the sermon:
1. What are some things that have changed in your life after becoming a Christ-follower?
2. What has been the key to keeping spiritual growth happening?
3. What are the things that you know would help you grow, but frankly it is hard for you to do it?
4. What do you make of people who say they’ve become Christians but have not evidenced any spiritual growth?
5. Read the key passage (above) together.

After the sermon:
1. Did God teach you some things about spiritual growth that you had not considered before? Be specific.
2. How can we sometimes pursue a “righteousness of our own” instead of a “righteousness that comes from God and is by faith” as we seek to grow in Christ? What’s the danger here?
3. How are you going to pursue growth now as a result of hearing the Word?

Worship (Key text: Psalm 33)
Prior to the sermon:
1. Write down the first 5 words that come to mind when you think of "worship." Now as a group, try to define "worship."
2. The Westminster Catechism says, "The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever." What Bible verses support that?
3. What was worship like in the church you grew up in?
4. What helps you engage your heart and mind in worship at Cornerstone? What do you find distracting?
5. If you could create your own "song/set list" for Wally to lead on the weekend, what would it be?

After the sermon:
1. What's one thing from the message that stuck out to you?
2. Looking back on your life, when was a time you were closest to God in worship?
3. What has been the most difficult time in your life to worship?
4. How can you grow as a worshiper in your: personal life? family? car? workplace? connection group?

Hello my name is Cornerstone: Prayer

2010-03-19T15:59:00.000-06:00

Passage: Luke 11:1-13

Luke emphasizes the amount of time Jesus spent in prayer. Whether He was getting up early in the morning or spending the entire night in prayer, Jesus’ prayer life was of crucial importance to maintaining His connection with the Father. Through faith in Jesus, we can address God knowing that he listens to us, and wants to provide for us as His adopted as sons and daughters. Asking God for houses, cars, jobs, health, and comfort is safe. Asking for the Holy Spirit to guide you and empower you will change your life. With that in mind, here are some possible discussion questions for group discussion.

1. Have you ever had someone provide a good model of prayer life for you, like Jesus did for His disciples? What did you learn?

2. How would you feel if you got a chance to pray with Jesus? Do you think that you would pray for the same things Jesus prays for?

3. If we make time for what we value, how does your prayer life reflect what you value in life?

4. How does what we pray about reflect what we value in our lives?

5. Inside each of us is a desire to be part of something bigger than ourselves. If God were to answer all your prayers today, how would it affect God’s Kingdom?

6. How does our pride (self-reliance, perfectionism, and arrogance) hinder the boldness with which Jesus wants us to pray? What does this say about our dependence on or trust in God to provide for the things we need(or want)?

7. What would Jesus say is the ultimate goal of prayer?

8. Prayer is powerful and God is infinite in power and resources. How often do you ask to be filled with and led by the Spirit with greater power for ministry and intimacy with God?

9. Do you ever hesitate to ask for the guidance of the Spirit, afraid of where it will lead you?

10. Do you ever limit the power of your prayers because what God might want for you, could be different what you desire?

11. In those situations, how hard is it to trust that what God wants for us is better than what we want for ourselves?

Philemon

2010-03-10T22:04:00.003-06:00

Onesimus, a newly converted Christian and runaway slave, had two options. He could keep on running, or return back to his master as Paul calls him to do what is right in God’s eyes. Philemon, a Christian, has the legal right to immediately execute him or brand him a fugitive for life if he returns. Paul writes this letter on behalf of both parties to call them to do what is right in God’s eyes.

1. Do you feel the weight Paul is putting on Onesimus by writing this letter to his master(Now he pretty much has to return, right)?

2. Do you feel the weight Paul is putting on Philemon by writing this letter to do the right thing?

3. Do you feel that Paul, by stating, “I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do,” undercuts the sincerity with which he requests Philemon to welcome back Onesimus? Is this letter really a request at all?

4. What do you think about Paul using this kind of diplomacy/pressure?

5. How does this compare with how you deal with co-workers or friends when requesting a favor that they ought to carry out as a Christian?

6. What do you think Paul is hinting at in verse 22: “And one thing more: Prepare a guest room for me, because I hope to be restored to you in answer to your prayers.” ?

7. How would you feel if a Christian brother approached you in this manner with a request to welcome back into your home, someone who once wronged you(stole from you, vandalized your house, etc.), but has since come to Christ? Would you be skeptical? Would you be obedient?

8. Would you trust that God would bless you for being obedient to how the word calls you to forgive, even though you have the legal right to press charges?

9. From Onesimus’ perspective, would you be able to trust God enough to return to your master and except the consequences of your actions, knowing legally you could be put to death for what you have done?

10. Read verse 15. Think about Onesimus and ask yourself, “Have you ever found yourself running from something, or even away from God, and found He actually used that to bring you closer to Him?”

11. Think about Philemon. How has God taken a problem in your life and solved it in a way that was better than what you could have or would have done, but in a way you did not expect?

12. How has God used a trial or failure in your life to bring you closer to Him?

Ephesians 6: 10-20

2010-02-25T18:00:00.001-06:00

Leaders,

Spiritual warfare is all around us and attacks from the Enemy are inevitable. God provides the only armor effective in this war. Paul tries to prepare us for this spiritual battle by urging us to constantly live(stand firm) in truth, righteousness, and readiness. He calls us to live in the truth of the Word, allowing it to govern our lives and hold everything together like a belt buckle. He calls us to live righteously, to protect our hearts from latching on to any idolatrous desires that can pull us away from God, out into darkness. Paul calls us to stay alert with readiness to respond when God calls us into action. If we are not putting God first, we will surely hesitate when we have to sacrifice chasing the materialistic idols of this world to respond to God.

When under attack, Paul teaches us to protect ourselves with the shield of our faith, the security of salvation, and to fend off the evil forces at hand with the sword of the Spirit. Alerted by the presence of the Enemy, we should pick up our shield of faith, made strong through the constant refinement of living a life for Christ. Just like the security a helmet provides in battle, we trust in the security of our salvation, knowing we are saved eternally no matter what happens. Lastly, positioning ourselves at the point of attack, we pick up the sword of the Spirit(the word of God), the only weapon with which we should counterattack Satan’s temptations. All the while, we should be praying in the Spirit continuously, for ourselves and for the fearlessness of others to fight for the Gospel with how we live our lives.

Here are some possible questions for your connection groups:

1.What are the rulers, authorities, and powers of this dark world? Are these seen or unseen? How are these different from the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms?

2.Why do you think these verses are all about defending yourself, instead of attacking the forces of evil?

3.If this struggle is not of flesh and blood, where is the most common battlefront in this spiritual war?

4.What are some examples of spiritual attacks in your lives and how do you deal with them?

5.How does knowing the truth from the Bible, help you protect yourself when under attack?

6.What is the one weapon Paul lists that we can use to counterattack the enemy?

7.How did Jesus respond while Satan was tempting Him in the desert? (Luke 4, Matthew 4)

8.If Paul, superhero of the New Testament still struggles with fearlessly declaring the Gospel, then how do we stand a chance at being fearless?

9.How does God’s sovereignty play into this spiritual war in our lives? (1 Corinthians 10:13)

10.If strength in numbers is as true in spiritual warfare as it is in flesh and blood war, we should be praying for each other constantly. How often do you pray for others? How often do you check to see how they are doing with struggles in their life? If not often, what are some practical ways to change this in your lives?

Ephesians 6:5-9

2010-02-19T18:22:00.002-06:00

Read over this passage and pray for God to reveal better ways to live out this passage in your jobs. Jesus, ruler of all creation, served His disciples by washing their feet and said, "14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.(John 13:14-15)" Then he said in verse 17, "Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."

Whether you are a slave(employee) or a master(employer), I would challenge you to go to your boss or employees and ask them how you might serve them better. Here are some possible discussion questions for your connection group:

1. Notice that the passage is void of conditional obedience(ex. obey your boss only if he treats you in a manner deserving of respect). Do you serve your boss wholeheartedly, regardless of how he treats you?

2. How does the unconditional obedience towards your boss in this passage testify for our relationship with Christ? What are some practical examples in your work life?

3. Bosses do you shepherd your employees, as Christ shepherded His disciples, even when rebuking them? What does this look like in your office?

4. Do you believe that God will bless you if you obey your boss, even though you don't agree with what he is asking you to do(as long as he is not asking you to sin against God)? Give some practical examples of this in your life.

5. For many, work is the place where you spend the most time with non-believers in your life. How well do your work habits testify for your relationship with Christ?

Ephesians 6:1-4

2010-02-12T08:10:00.002-06:00

If you are a parent, take time this week to work through these verses with your kids.

Connection Group Discussion Questions:

1. What is the goal of being a parent? Children: What is the goal of growing up?

2. Parents: What does it look like in your home to bring your children up in the "training and instruction of the Lord?"

3. Children: Do you really believe that it may not go well with you if you do not honor your father and mother? Then why do we disobey?

4. Once we, as children, have “grown up,” do we still have to obey our parents? What does it look like to honor them? - ex. When do parents stop telling their children what to do and when do children get to stop obeying?

5. Parents: What does exasperating your children say about your trust in God‘s sovereignty over their lives?

6. Adult Children: What does not honoring your parents say about your trust in God’s sovereignty over both your life and their lives? Do you ever try to play the role of the parent with your parents? Do you honor your father and mother as adults in a way that glorifies God?

7. If parents and children are both playing the roles God has given them, (children honoring and obeying; fathers not exasperating and training) does this verse apply to these relationships throughout life?

8. Parents: What does it look like to not exasperate your children as they get older, even moving into adulthood?

9. Thinking about this passage: Parents, how does being a child of God and our relationship with Him affect the way we parent our own children? Children, how does our relationship with God the Father affect the way we serve those who look up to us?

10. Do we as children of God really believe that He, the father, is trying to train and instruct us for the best life He has to offer? Then why do we disobey?

Ephesians 5:21-33

2010-02-03T15:28:00.000-06:00

1. Prior to reading this passage / hearing the message, how would you finish the following sentence: The goal or the purpose of marriage is __________ .
2. Read Eph. 5:21-24 and verse 33. How is God challenging wives in general and you in particular? When wives reject this passage, how do they tend to relate to their husbands?

3. Ladies, does this calling in the marriage relationship threaten your worth or acknowledge and accentuate it? How so?

4. Read Eph. 5:25-33. How is God challenging husbands in general and you in particular?

5. When men reject this passage, how do they tend to treat their wives?

6. Based on this passage, what is the goal of the husband, the wife, and the marriage? Is your marriage an attractive picture of the gospel?

7. Go around the room and have everyone finish this sentence: As a result of this passage and with God’s strength (5:18b), I plan to ______________ .

Ephesians 5:1-20

2010-01-25T08:31:00.002-06:00

Meditate again on the phrases "created to be like God" (4:24) and "be imitators of God" (5:1). What have you learned so far about what those phrases mean?

What have you learned from chapter 4 about "putting off the old self" and "putting on the new self"?

When you discuss the temptations we face toward sexual immorality, it may be good to split the men and women into two groups so that each can discuss the unique ways this temptation comes to us.

How do we allow a "hint" of sexual immorality into our lives (:3)? We can often justify baby-steps toward immorality and justify it because we are stopping short of fully giving into this sin. But there is to not even be a hint! Explore this idea.

How does greed become idolatry (:5)?

How do we "expose" the deeds of darkness?

Paul speaks of the psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with which we are to "speak to another." Has coming to Christ changed the music you listen to and sing? Why do you think music is such a big deal?

Have everyone pick one verse that they are going to meditate on and memorize over this next week. These practical truths are to be lived out in tangible ways. Let's hold one another accountable to be doers of the Word and not simply hearers.

Ephesians 4:25 - 5:2

2010-01-21T13:11:00.002-06:00

Now Paul gets very specific about what it means to "put off" the old self and to "put on" the new self. Remember from (:24) that we were "created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

Read through the passage together - perhaps more than once.

Make a list of those things that the Christian is to "put off" and then another list of that which is to be "put on" according to these verses.

One of the most powerful means by which Cornerstone can become a blatantly bold and undeniable church is for each of us to "speak truthfully to his neighbor" (:25).

Do you believe that we, as a culture, have a difficult time being truth-speakers? How so?

How do YOU specifically struggle with being a truth-speaker? (Let each person answer this one).

Do you find yourself losing your temper? When? What does that look like?

Do you hold grudges? Ever? Against whom?

What does stealing (or petty pilfering) look like at your workplace? Where else do you see such ongoing stealing?

When you find yourself using "unwholesome talk" against someone, what typically instigates it?

Look again at 4:32 through 5:2. How do these verses motivate you to treat others well?

Ephesians 4:17-24

2010-01-16T13:54:00.000-06:00

Read our passage, Ephesians 4:17-24. Paul says that Gentiles (non-Christians) live with futile thinking - thinking that is incapable of producing any meaningful result; pointless. Describe some futile thinking that is prevalent in our day and age among those who don't know Christ.
Walk through the downward spiral of sin Paul describes in vv. 18-19. Give some real life examples of how people descend down that path of mental and moral compromise?
Here's where the rubber meets the road. Paul wrote this to Christians because we are prone to put on the old "clothes" of sin and head back into old behaviors. How have you headed back into the old way of living?
Reread 4:20-24. What is God clearly calling us to do?
Throughout this passage, Paul emphasizes right thinking alongside of right living. How can believing lies lead to godless behavior? Conversely, how can believing truth lead to godly living?
What specific lies does the devil whisper in your ear? As a CG, when someone shares a lie, allow others to share truths from the Scripture to combat those destructive lies.
Before praying for each other, try and summarize 4:17-24 in a single sentence.

Ephesians 4:7-16

2010-01-08T10:42:00.001-06:00

1. We know that Salvation is a "grace gift" of God (2:8-9). How isthis "grace gift" in verse 7 different than that? Who has this gift?
2. Verse 11 describes certain men who are "gifts" to the church.What are the specific gifts these men have and how do they function?
3. What is the primary role of these gifts? (vs. 12-13)
4. When these men are doing their jobs and gods people are prepared,what does that look like? (14-16)
5. What does it mean to "speak the truth in love"? Why is this sucha difficult thing for people to do?

Ephesians 4:1-6

2010-01-04T15:19:00.000-06:00

A Little Background…
For thousands of years, the Jews and Gentiles had known tremendous religious and social separation. Earlier in Ephesians, Paul said the Gentiles were “separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.” Because of Jesus, everything had changed for the Gentiles. Now, they were beginning to understand that they too were the object of God’s eternal affection, love, and grace. With that background and context, reread Eph. 4:1-6.

1. What might the Gentiles (and Jews) have heard in Eph. 4:2 as Paul begins his exhortation with, “Be completely humble and gentle”?
2. How does God want you to be humble, putting others above yourself? (See Ph.2:3-4). How can you grown in gentleness towards others, remembering that gentleness means to have your strength under control?
3. God calls us to bear with one another or put up with one another in love (4:2). How might the Jews and Gentiles have been challenged with that command? Who, specifically, do you need to learn to put up with in love? What will that look like once you leave this connection group?
4. God calls us in verse 3 to, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Yet many are too proud to say, “I was wrong will you please forgive me?” while others are too cowardice or politically correct to say, “You were wrong when you did or said that to me.” As a result there is much disunity in God’s family. Is there currently brokenness between you and anyone else and how will you make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit?
5. Go around the group and have each person complete the following sentence: “As a result of these verses, I am asking God to help me _______________ . “ (Talking about verses is easy. Stepping out in faith and obedience is hard, but tremendously rewarding!)
6. Reread verses 4-6. It is clear that God wants unity in His family. This thought seems to dominate Jesus’ prayer time in the garden of Gethsemane the night before His execution (Jn. 17:20-23). This would be a great time for your connection group to celebrate communion together. Perhaps you could first have some time as a group to confess any sin the Lord has brought to mind through this passage. Next, you could share communion, celebrating the sacrifice of Christ that made our unity with both Him and others possible. Lastly, close in prayer, asking Him for strength to live out the life giving commands the Apostle Paul shared in this passage.

Ephesians 3:14-21

2009-12-12T08:47:00.000-06:00

A Prayer for the Ephesians

This week I would encourage you to read and even re-read the passage during your group. There are some beautiful avenues of prayer contained in these verses. Many of our groups struggle to make prayer a meaningful and progressing aspect of our time together. Let this passage catalyze prayer in your group this week.

Here are some ideas:

Divide the verses (or even phrases) of this passage between the members of your group and ask everyone to pray those words back to God - expanding and personalizing the prayer.
If the above would be too intimidating at first, spend some time discussing each verse/phrase before praying. Help one another to let this passage shape our prayers.
The word, "power" is used three times in these verses. Ask the group how Paul uses this word, what he means, and how we are to tap into God's power.
What does Paul say about "love" in these verses?
According to Ephesians chapters 1-3, how specifically would the church bring glory to Christ (not individuals, but the collective of Christ-followers called the Church)?
Spend some time asking God to do in Cornerstone Church that which would go far beyond anything we could ask for or even imagine.

Ephesians 3:1-13

2009-12-02T13:39:00.005-06:00

Paul the Preacher to the Gentiles

Paul started this section by acknowledging himself as "the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles." What does this title mean? How was he a prisoner of Christ? What does his attitude teach us about service to God?

In vs 2, Paul mentioned that it was likely that the church of Ephesus had heard about the "administration of God's Grace" in the life of Paul.

-What are some of the things that they would have heard?

-If you were in the original audience and heard these things about Paul, how would it influence your relationship with God?

Review vs 3-9

Paul referred to a mystery that was revealed to him that involved the Gentiles. He also noted it was a gift of God's grace...

-Why did Paul care about the Gentiles? Why did it matter to him if they were members of the body of Christ or not?

-Paul had developed a reputation of teaching that Gentiles had the same equal access to God that the Jews did. Why would this create division in the Jewish community?

-If it would have been easier for Paul to side with the Jewish sentiment at the time, why didn't he?

-If Paul felt that he was "less than the least of all God's people," why didn't he use this as an excuse to NOT preach God's message?

-Despite the persecution that he received, he felt that his mission was a gift of God's grace. Do we view evangelism as "gifts of grace" or do we view them as burdens from which we shrink away?

Lets break down vs 10...

Paul stated in vs 10 that through the church, "the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms."

-According to a dictionary search, it appears that "manifold" means: of many kinds- being numerous and varied; having different parts, elements and features. Paul noted that God's wisdom has a manifold nature. In what ways?

-He noted that it was "through the church" that the manifold wisdom of God would be known. How? Through preaching? Through its very existence? Why is the Church in this privileged position?

-Who are the "rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms" that Paul was referring to? Was he referring to a spiritual dimension? If so, discuss the role that the church would play in this...

He closed this section with the hope that the audience would not be discouraged because of his sufferings.

-In what ways would they be discouraged? For instance, would people feel that God is less capable of victory than they had previously assumed?

-Would they have felt that God should have protected Paul, as he was an apostle on God's behalf?

-In Paul's plea, we see that there are some things that are more important than worldly comfort. Would you have seen this persecution in the same way?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Ephesians 3:1-13

Ephesians 2: 11-22

2009-11-21T22:53:00.004-06:00

One in Christ

Review vs 11-13 as a group.

Paul asked the church in Ephesus to remember the important things that have been discussed so far- and specifically what he mentioned in vs 1-1o

Although your group may have done this last week, discuss what your life looked like before you came to Christ.

1. What was your life style?

- How did sin influence your thoughts and actions?

- Did you ever feel that you were separate from Christ? Did you know Christ at all?

2. What is a Gentile?

- Paul used the terms "uncircumcised" and "the circumcision." Other than the obvious surgical procedure, what was he referring to? Did the circumcision indicate that you had a right relationship with God?

- What did these terms have to do with "citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise?" What promise? What covenants?

3. In vs 13, Paul proclaimed that though you were once "far away," you have been brought near through the blood of Christ.

-What evidence can be seen in your life regarding the transformation from spiritually dead to alive?

Review vs 14-22

Through the death and resurrection of Christ we are reconciled to God. That said, Paul noted that there are other benefits. In verses 14-22 these benefits are addressed.

As a group discuss some of these benefits:

-How was the law and its commandments and regulations abolished by the death and resurrection of Christ?

-How is our life different now that we have access to the Father by one Spirit?

-What are the benefits of being in God's household?

-You are being built to become a dwelling for God to live in by His spirit. Explain what this looks like and how we are to live because of it.

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Ephesians 2: 11-22

Ephesians 2:1-10

2009-11-17T08:24:00.001-06:00

Made Alive in Christ

Paul outlined out that all of us at one time were dead in our

transgressions.

Review vs 1-4 as a group

While you were living in sin- following the ways of the world- did

you feel that you were "dead?"

- Would you have ever admitted to being under the influence of a

"spirit" that is at work in those that are disobedient? Would you

have admitted to being disobedient, in the first place?

- Would you have seen yourself as an "object of wrath?"

Review vs 4 and 5

What is the normal way we respond to those that are "objects of our wrath?" What does it say about God's Love that He had His Son die for those that didn't deserve it?

Paul mentioned Grace in verse 5. Lets address this and the remainder of the chapter.

- What is Grace? How is it different than love?

- When he mentioned that it was by this Grace that you were saved- through faith- what does this mean?

- Is the fact that it took no work on your part to save you from death hard to comprehend?

- What would you tell someone that doesn't believe that faith alone would get you into the Heaven? If they believe that it is the things that you do on this earth that get you into heaven- how would you respond?

Teacher: Peter Matthews

Ephesians 2:1-10

Ephesians 1:15-23

2009-11-07T18:22:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving and Prayer

Review vs 15 and 16

1. Paul discussed the faith and love of the believers that lived in Ephesus.

-Do these qualities provide evidence of anything?

2. Paul gave thanks, not for their love of God, but for their love of all the saints.

-Explain the difference.

-Do we sometimes claim love for God but not evidence this love by loving those around us?

Review vs 17

Paul mentioned that He prayed for the Spirit of wisdom and revelation be given to the believers.

-How would it benefit the believers to know God better?

-If you were given full clarity of what God wants and desires, would that change the way you live? Has He already made these desires clear?

Review vs 18

-What are the "eyes of your heart?"

-He mentioned that he wanted these "eyes" to be enlightened- so that they would know the hope to which we are called and to have an understanding of the inheritance of the saints. How important to your relationship with God is it that you have this understanding?

Review vs 19 and 20

-How significant is it that the power that raised Jesus from the dead, is also at work in us?

-What is the benefit of this great power to a believer? How should it affect how we look at the trials of our lives?

Review vs 21-23

God's great power not only raised Christ from the dead, it placed Christ in a position of authority above all that can be named- including the church.

-Why is this significant? How does this benefit believers?

-How should this authority be seen by those that choose to live in defiance of it?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Ephesians 1:15-23

Ephesians 1: 11-14

2009-10-31T17:22:00.003-06:00

If your group didn't get a chance to discuss the topics that were raised in last week's teaching session- make sure you address it. Paul referenced "predestination" in this section, as well.

Review vs 11

-Do you believe that God has control over everything AND that these things work out in conformity to His Will?

-Do the day-to-day tasks of your life: washing the dishes, taking the kids to the park...play any significance in His will? What does this say about His involvement in your life?

-If we were "chosen" and "predestined," how should our lives look?

Review vs 12 and 13

-Why did God reveal the mystery of His will to common man? How do most people respond to this Truth?

Paul wrote that there there is a promised gift to all the children of God: The seal of the Holy Spirit

-What is this seal? Is it something that can been seen? Does it have some influence in our lives?

Do you get the seal immediately after believing the word of Truth? Does it protect you in some way?

Review vs 14

-What is the "inheritance" that Paul was referring to? What value does it have? Are we supposed to live our lives in the pursuit of it?

-Paul mentioned that this inheritance would be guaranteed "until the redemption of those who are in God's possession." When will this be?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Ephesians 1: 11-14

Ephesians 1:3-10

2009-10-31T16:45:00.004-06:00

Sorry for the delay folks- with the open house and all, its been crazy around here!

Spiritual blessings in Christ

Review vs 3

-Discuss what spiritual blessings we have in Christ.

Verses 4 and 5 address a hot-button topic in some churches. Let's take some time with these passages.

Vs 4

-What does it mean when Paul says that Jesus chose us?

-How do we know that we are chosen?

-Why did he choose us? Was it necessary that it had to be done before the creation of the world? What are the ramifications of this?

-How do we know if those around us are not chosen? Does it matter?

Vs 5

-What does "predestined" mean?

-Is it loving that some are "predestined" and some may not be?

-Why would God will that some are "predestined" and others are not?

Vs 6-8

-Review the gifts of God's grace that we see in these verses- for instance, what is the difference

between redemption and forgiveness of sin.

-What wisdom and understanding is Paul referring to? Is this something that is quantifiable?

Vs 9 and 10

-Paul mentioned that the mystery of God's will would be revealed according to His good pleasure and when times have reached their fulfillment. Why? Why is it important that we should be let in on God's will?

-What will it look like when all things in heaven and earth under Christ?

Bonus Question: Imagine that someone in your group has been praying for his or her sister for sometime. After listening to the teaching of the weekend and after reviewing these verses, your friend asks you if his or her sister is "predestined?" What if they say, "How does my praying or talking to her about Christ matter if she isn't "predestined?"

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Ephesians 1: 3-10

Ephesians 1: 1-2

2009-10-17T21:04:00.002-06:00

As we are only covering 2 verses on the weekend of the opening celebration, my questions will be basic back ground questions:

Review Ephesians 1: 1-2

1. Who was Paul?

-What is an apostle?

2. Who was the audience of the letter?

-Where was Ephesus?

-Who were the "saints," the "faithful?"

-Why would Paul write these people?

3. What is the significance of offering God's Grace and Peace to the audience of this letter?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt and Jeff Dodge

Ephesians 1: 1-2

Opening Celebration!

2009-10-17T20:57:00.002-06:00

3 years.

That's the amount of time between the "Your Move" Kick-off in the big tent- remember that?- and the weekend of Oct 25th.

After 3 years, we are going to have the opening celebration for the new auditorium and D6 Family area that God has blessed us with!

Join us for 2 amazing services on the weekend of October 25th- 9 and 11 am. As it is likely that nearly 2000 people will be in attendance- come early...

God is going to be praised in a mighty way that weekend!

Mathew 28: 16-20

2009-10-12T19:20:00.007-06:00

The Great Commission

The King has risen. The eleven disciples went to Galilee, specifically to the mountain where Jesus told them to go.

Review vs 16 and 17

- These disciples have witnessed many amazing events during the ministry of Jesus on this earth. However, it appears that some continued to doubt when they saw Jesus. Why?

Review vs 18

-Discuss the claim made by Jesus in this verse. What did He mean? What is the significance of this verse? When was this authority given to Him?

Let's take a few minutes and break down the Great Commission.

Review vs 19

-At the time that Jesus gave this commission to the disciples, what did the mission field look like?

-Would this command be difficult? What level of persecution were they facing?

-What level of instruction did Jesus give HIS disciples in terms of making new disciples?

-Why did Jesus command the disciples to baptize these new disciples?

In verse 19, Jesus also alluded to the doctrine of Trinity.

-When Jesus presented that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are each equal and fully God, how would the disciples have responded?

-Was this something that they would have deduced on their own during His time with them? Cite references.

Review the first half of vs 20

-How difficult is it to teach some one to obey everything that Jesus commands them? As a disciple, would this have seemed a daunting task?

-If the disciples were to instruct others about Jesus and the entirety of His truth, what would it say about their own faith level? For instance, could they profess Christ as Savior and Lord, while rejecting some of His teachings?

Review the last half of vs 20

-Why did Jesus add this last sentence?

-After hearing these commands from Jesus, why would this last point bring comfort to the disciples?

Bonus Questions:

1. Why should we assume that this commission applies to us as Christ followers and not only to the eleven disciples?

2. What does our mission field look like? Does it have to be oversees?

3. Is the Great Commission harder to follow in 2009 than it was when it was first presented by Jesus?

4. Does the last half of vs 20 bring you comfort when it comes to stepping out in faith and spreading the Good News? If so, why are we not more aggressive about the pursuit of those around us that continue to live in darkness?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 28: 16-20

Thanks!

2009-10-12T12:51:00.003-06:00

Good Afternoon, Leaders!

Hope all is well.

I just wanted to extend a warm thanks to all of you for your kind comments regarding the birth our son, Luca! I enjoy partnering with each and every one of you.

Also, thanks for giving me some time to help Jamie over the last week. The newest blog entry will be posted for this weekend's message today.

Take care,

Jacob Varghese

Matthew 27:32-56

2009-09-24T19:08:00.014-06:00

The Crucifixion

Discuss the punishment of Crucifixion with your group.

-Who were usually punished in this way?

-Was it painful?

-Would it be seen as an embarrassment to be crucified?

1. In the Garden of Gethsamane, when Jesus asked God for "this cup to be taken away from Him," was He referring to only the pain of the cross or was there something else He wanted to avoid?

2. Review vs 39-44

-Why didn't Jesus come down from the cross? Why would He put himself through the pain and the embarrassment associated with this punishment?

The Death of Jesus

Review vs 45

1. Why does Jesus feel that His Father has forsaken him?

-Has He experienced this before?

Review vs 51

-Why did Matthew add this into the narrative? How does it benefit us?

As a group discuss the prophecies that have been fulfilled by the death of Christ on the Cross.

For instance, are there prophecies that indicate:

-that the Messiah would be forsaken by His disciples

-accused by false witnesses

-spat on and struck

-that He would be crucified with criminals

-that His body would be pierced but not broken

-that soldiers would gamble for His garments?

Any others?

The quick answer... yes. Now find them!

- Let me know if you need a hint or two... : )

** If time permits, consider scheduling a private viewing of "The Passion of the Christ" or similar movie with your connection group.

**Also, perhaps consider taking Communion as a group also.

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 27: 32-56

Matthew 27:11-32

2009-09-19T11:34:00.012-06:00

Jesus Before Pilate

After the false accusations are made against Jesus by the chief priests and elders, He was brought before Pontius Pilate- the Roman governor of Judea at that time.

1. Review vs 11

-Why would Pilate ask this question?

-Discuss the significance of Jesus' response.

-By claiming He was a king, wouldn't this have been seen as a challenge against Rome?

2. As the accusations continued, Jesus remained silent. This amazed Pilate.

-Discuss as a group what may have been going on in Pilate's mind during this illegal trial.

-Why would he have been amazed at Jesus' reluctance to answer the accusations made against him?

3.Review vs 15-24

As a custom during the Passover, a prisoner chosen by the crowd was released to them by the Roman governor. Pilate presented Barabbas... a notorious criminal... and, Jesus- the sinless Son of God, to the crowd.

After being persuaded by the chief priests and elders, the crowd chose Barabbas.

-What does the choice of Barabbas say about the crowd's view of Jesus? Why didn't it bother them that Barabbas was a notorious criminal that could very likely commit grievous crimes again?

-What do you think the priests and elders told the crowd?

4. Review vs 24

After attempting to reason with the crowd, Pilate washed his hands of the responsibility of crucifying Jesus.

-If Pilate had the authority to release Jesus- why didn't he?

-Pilate did not believe that Jesus committed a crime- however, Jesus mentioned earlier that He is the King of the Jews- an openly defiant position against the nation of Rome. Why would Pilate still view him as innocent?

-Is Pilate's act of washing his hands of Jesus' blood the same as asking for forgiveness?

-Do you feel that Pilate was forced into making this decision against Christ?

5. Review vs 25

-What does this verse mean?

6. Before being crucified, Jesus was flogged and mocked by the guards.

-What is flogging? If Jesus was going to be crucified, why was he also flogged?

- Why did the governor's soldiers act in this way?

Bonus Question: Between Pilate, the cruel guards, the false accusations of the chief priests, the crowd that demanded that Jesus be crucified- and the sin of your own life- who holds the most responsibility for Jesus' death?

** If time permits, consider scheduling a private viewing of "The Passion of the Christ" or similar movie with your connection group.

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 27: 11-44

Matthew 26:69-27:10

2009-09-12T21:13:00.008-06:00

Peter Disowns Jesus

Peter sat outside the courtyard and was approached by various people regarding his relationship with the King.

1. Review vs 69

-Why did the servant girl point this out? Did Peter think it was for a different reason?

2. Review vs 71

-Apparently, the motivation of this girl is a bit more clear...

-What would people in the crowd stand to gain by pointing out the followers of Christ? Did they become "enemies" when Jesus was arrested? Do you think they were in the crowd that gathered for the Triumphal Entry noted in Matthew 21: 1-11? Do you think they were followers then?

3. The story continues with yet another denial of Christ by Peter.

Consider this sequence of denials.

-Discuss why Peter responded in such dramatic ways when he was questioned.

-If you were Peter, how would you have responded to this questioning?

-Additional question: Is there a scenario in which you could see yourself denying Christ? What would the level of persecution have to look like?

Matthew 27

Judas saw that Jesus, an innocent- sinless- man was being condemned by priests as a result of an unfair trial. He recognized his sin and approached the priests and the elders.

As a group, discuss the betrayal of Christ by Judas.

-What was his motivation?

-Did Judas not see Jesus as innocent before committing to betray Him?

After sensing the gravity of his choices, Judas went away and hanged himself.

-Was this a response of guilt? Remorse? Some other feeling?

-Do you think that Judas felt that betraying Jesus was beyond forgiveness? If he had been in the company of Jesus over the last few years of His life, why would he think this?

-Is there a sin in your life that you feel is beyond forgiveness? Considering the heart of our Gracious King, why would you still feel that He wouldn't forgive you?

Final question: What do you feel the difference is between Peter and Judas and how they approached the choices listed above?

-What did their individual responses say about their relationship with Christ?

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Matthew 26:69- 27:10

Matthew 26:57-68

2009-09-12T20:36:00.003-06:00

Before the Sanhedrin

Jesus has been arrested and He was facing the teachers of the law and the chief priests.

Imagine a court case in which the jury has already decided that you will receive the death penalty.

-What would the trial look like?

-Would it become fairly obvious that the jury was against you from the beginning?

-When you did start to realize that the jury was not going to give you a fair chance, how would you respond?

1. Review vs 58

Peter apparently followed the crowd from a distance. The verse indicates that he did so to "see the outcome."

-Over the last few weeks of Jesus' life, he mentioned over and over again that He would soon lay down his life. Did Peter expect some other outcome?

2. Review vs 59 and 60

The chief priests began to search for false evidence so that Jesus could be put to death.

Discuss what this court scene would have looked like.

-Would the sentiment have been many voices against Jesus? A few?

-Would "the few" have spoken up against "the many?"

-What would compel "many" false witnesses to come forward against Christ? What did they stand to gain?

3. Review vs 61-63

-As further accusations were being made, Jesus remained silent. Why?

-If the roles were reversed and false accusations were being made against you, what would your reaction have been?

4. Review vs 64

Discuss the significance of this verse.

-Of all the things that Jesus could have said, why did He say this?

xref: Daniel 7:13

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 26: 57-68

Cornerstone Connection Group Ministry Kick-off

2009-09-12T20:02:00.002-06:00

Good evening, Leaders!

Welcome back!

Hope your summer went well.

Tomorrow is the big day. After a short summer break, our Connection Group Ministry will be kicking off again. Through out this weekend, I will be extending invitations to those that are currently not connected. I am excited to tell them all about the fantastic job that you are all doing!

As it appears to be a resource for many of you, I will continue to post questions on this blog site. Also, as some of you go over the teaching series BEFORE the teaching itself, I will try to have the questions posted one week before the actual teaching. For this reason, I will post the questions today for this week's teaching, as well as next week's.

Have a good weekend and thanks for all that you do.

In Him,

Take the summer off!!!!!

2009-05-07T16:52:00.003-06:00

Leaders,

As we discussed in the last Connection Group Leader's Training, this will be the last blog entry for discussion questions this season. Please review the blog page through the summer, as I will continue to post important information for you to know.

Also, if you haven't already, please consider my advice to take the summer off. Use this time to recharge and relax. I want you all to be ready for a new year in August!

Thanks for your service.

Sincerely,

Jacob Varghese

Regional Ministry Director

Cornerstone Church of Ames

Matthew 19:16-30

2009-05-07T16:35:00.002-06:00

The Rich Young Man

1. Review vs 16

-What is the motive behind the young man's question?

-Discuss the wording of the question itself- "what good thing must I DO to GET" eternal life. What are some good things that you can do to GET eternal life? Trick question...

2. Jesus advised the man that if he wants eternal life, obey the commandments. Review vs 18-20.

-Which ones were left out by Jesus? (Xref Exodus 20)

-Why?

-How likely is it that the young man has "kept" all of the commandments that Jesus mentioned?

3. Review Jesus advice to the young man in vs 21.

-Is Jesus asking all of us to sell all of our possessions?

-Why did he ask the ruler to do this?

4. Vs 22 indicates that the young man went away sad. Review Jesus' note to the disciples in vs 23 and 24.

-What does Jesus mean? Does this mean that rich people can't get into heaven?

Further discussion questions:

-What are some idols in your lives? What are some things that stand in the way of your relationship with Christ that you find hard to walk away from?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 19:16-30

Matthew 19: 1-15

2009-04-25T20:13:00.008-06:00

Divorce

The Pharisees approach Jesus to test Him again...

1. Review the discussion between the Pharisees and Jesus in vs 3-7

-In your opinion, what motivated the Pharisees to ask this question?

2. How does the world view marriage and divorce? Does the world really see the union of marriage as two people becoming one flesh?

3. Do people get divorced for "any and every reason" in 2009? Why does man try to separate what God has joined together?

Review vs 8 and 9

1. What did Jesus mean when He said that Moses permitted divorce because of hard hearts? What does the condition of one's heart have to do with divorce?

2. Why did Jesus allow marital unfaithfulness as a reason for divorce? If your partner was to commit adultery, would you HAVE to divorce him or her? Could you choose to stay with the person after they have sinned against you?

Have some members in your group gone through a divorce? Was marital unfaithfulness a reason for the divorce? Would they be ok with never marrying again?

The Little Children and Jesus

Review vs 13-15

Why did Jesus always take time to meet with children?

-When Jesus said that the kingdom of heaven is made up for people like this...what did He mean?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 19: 1-15

Matthew 18:15-35

2009-04-18T21:30:00.003-06:00

A Brother Who Sins Against You

1. Review vs 5

-What are some sins that people commit against each other?

-Is the method that Jesus discussed in this verse the way people usually bring up the fault of others?

-How do people generally respond when you bring their fault to their attention?

-What did Jesus mean when He said, "you have won him over?" Won him over from what?

2. Read Deuteronomy 19:15 as a group. Then, review v 16

-What would cause someone to not listen to your concern?

-Why did Jesus' advice include bringing two or three witnesses?

-How would you discuss the issue with these witnesses before hand? When would it become gossip?

-Would it be expected that the witnesses are silent during the encounter or should they have some input?

-Do you think that the one guilty of the sin would feel that he/she is being "backed into a corner" by the presence of these two or three other people that are unrelated to the transgression?

3. Review v 17

Jesus stated that if the one that sinned against you refuses to listen to you in the presence of two or three witnesses, then the matter should be brought up to the church.

-Do you think this is an extreme response?

-Is this a fairly common practice? If not, why not?

-When would be the appropriate time for this discussion with the whole church? Why would the sin against you be any of their business?

Jesus continued by saying that if the sinner refused to listen to the whole church, treat him as you would a pagan.

-What does Jesus mean?

-What would compel someone to ignore the counsel of so many people?

4. Review v 18

-What did Jesus mean by "binding" and "loosing?"

-How does spiritual discipline relate to this verse?

5. Review vs 19-20

-Was Jesus specifically talking about spiritual accountability when he said these verses?

-What are some other applications in which you have heard these verses used? Are they being used in the correct context?

The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant

1. Review vs 21 and 22

-What was the motive behind Peter's question?

-Do you have someone in your life that you find yourself always forgiving?

-Is it easier to forgive someone that is repentant?

-What if it didn't bother them that they hurt you so many times? Would you still forgive them?

-In today's society, is it likely that you would give someone seven chances to hurt you?

-Is Jesus' response unrealistic? Are you capable of forgiving someone 77 times?

-From a legalistic sense, after the 78th time, are you off the hook? Can you start holding anger in your heart for them then?

-When you would you begin to question how much of a "brother" they are to you?

2. Review Jesus parable in vs 23-35

-Why was this servant called "unmerciful?"

-Have there been times in your life where you have held a transgression against someone for an extended amount of time? Why?

-Despite the level of sin that Christ has forgiven us for, are we sometimes guilty of the sin shown by this unmerciful servant?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 18: 15-35

Matthew 18:1-14

2009-04-14T07:12:00.003-06:00

Hey folks, thanks for giving me some time away with my family over Easter! Here is the next blog entry!

The Greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven

1. Review vs 1

-Why would the disciples ask Jesus this question? What was their motivation?

2. Review Jesus' response in verses 2-5.

-What does this look like?

-Why did Jesus address pride in his response to the disciples?

-Is pride a problem for you? Do you think that it would be difficult for you to humble yourself in the manner that Jesus suggests?

3. Review verses 5-8.

-As we look at our culture, what are some of the things that "cause people to sin?"

-Is this the motivation of the companies that produce or sell these items?

-Should they be held accountable or are they just making a living like you and I?

4. Review vs 8 and 9

-Is this teaching section difficult? Why?

-Is Jesus literally asking us to cut off body parts to help us deal with sin? If not, what is the point he is trying to make?

-Are there sin areas in your life that need to be addressed in an aggressive manner?

The Parable of the Lost Sheep

1. Review vs 12-14

-If a shepherd did have 100 sheep, do you think he would really care if one of them disappeared? Would he notice that one of them had wandered off?

As most of us are not shepherds, let me present another way of looking at this section:

If you had 3 children and one of them wandered off, imagine the grief and worry that you would feel. It is likely that you would put off everything in your life to look for this child...

-With this in mind, discuss how it grieves our Father in Heaven when one of his children wander away from him.

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Matthew 18: 1-14

Easter Weekend

2009-04-05T13:33:00.002-06:00

April 10, 11 and 12

Celebrate Christ's death and resurrection this weekend as we present "Ragman," a musical adapted from the short story by Walter Wangerin, Jr.

Set in modern day, urban America, "Ragman" is the story of five people and how their lives were transformed by a man who exchanged their dirty rags for clean rags.

Join us for one of five identical Easter Weekend Services.

Friday: 7:30pm

Saturday: 5:30 and 7:30 pm

Sunday: 9 and 11:00 am

Childcare is provided for infants through Kindergarten at all services. (First and second graders should attend the service with their families.) Children ages three and under will not be permitted in the auditorium during any of the five services.

Speaker: Paul Sabino

Matthew 17:14-27

2009-03-28T20:10:00.003-06:00

The Healing of a Boy with a Demon

(xref Mark 9: 14-33)

A man approached Jesus and indicated that his son had seizures and was suffering greatly. He noted that the boy often fell into the fire or the water. In the corresponding section in Mark, it is identified that the child was struggling with demon possession.

The father brought the son to the disciples for their help. However, the disciples could not heal him.

1. If this was your child, discuss how you would respond to his struggles.

-Would you take him to all of the available doctors?

-Would you try all of the available homeopathic options?

-When would prayer be used as an option? At the beginning? Through out the ordeal? As a last option?

The disciples were not able to cast out the demon, but Jesus does it immediately. Review the discussion between Jesus and His disciples in verses 17-22.

1. Jesus explained that they were not able to cast the demons out due to a lack of faith.

-If you were one of the disciples- one that was given the authority to cast out demons, (xref Matthew 10:1,) what would YOU have thought was the reason you were not able to cast out the demon?

-Would you have agreed w/ Jesus' analysis of the situation or would you have blamed HIM for not giving you sufficient means to address the issue?

2. He mentioned that if their faith was even as big as a mustard seed- the smallest seed known to the people of Israel at the time this was communicated- they could tell a mountain to move and it would.

-Gauge your level of faith- do you have faith as big as a mustard seed? More? Less? What is the evidence of this faith level?

-If it is a high faith level, how did it get to that point? If it is low, why does it stay that way?

3. Do you believe that anything is possible with faith?

-What role does God's Will play in this? For instance, does HE want the mountain to be moved?

The Temple Tax

(xref Exodus 30: 11-16)

The question of temple tax was brought up to Jesus.

1. What is the temple tax?

2. Jesus asked Peter about a tax that is imposed by a king. What does this have to do w/ the temple tax?

3. Peter correctly notes that the king's sons are exempt in verse 16.

-What is the significance of this point?

4. Review vs 27.

-Why did Jesus use a miracle to obtain this coin?

5. What are some of your thoughts regarding this story?

-Is it more disappointing that The King was not acknowledged as such and was forced to pay the temple tax or that He took the form of a meager carpenter that did not have money to pay it in the first place?

As a side note, Matthew the former tax collector, is the only one that notes this story in the Gospels.

-Apart from this point about his former occupation, can you think of any other reason he would feel compelled to add this incident to his narrative?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 17:14-27

Matthew 16:13-17:13

2009-03-20T19:41:00.003-06:00

Peter's Confession of Christ

1. Review vs 13 of chapter 16

-Why would Jesus ask this? As the Son of God, wouldn't He already know this information?

2. In verse 14, the disciples tell Jesus that He was referred to as John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.

-Why didn't the disciples note any of the negative things that people called Jesus?

-How about in 2009? What do people claim Jesus to be? A prophet? A teacher? A good man?

-How about some of the negative things?

Jesus then asked Peter who he thought Jesus was. Peter answered and said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God."

3. Review Jesus' response starting with verse 17

-Jesus advised Peter that this correct assessment was revealed to him by God. In what way?

-If you call Jesus, the Son of God, do you believe that this was revealed to you by God Himself? Why isn't He revealing this to everyone else in the world? Or, is He?

4. Review vs 19

-What does this mean?

-Was Peter the only person with this gift?

Jesus predicts His death

Jesus began to explain to His disciples that He would have to suffer a painful death and would raise again to life on the third day.

1. Review Peter's comments in verse 22 and Jesus' response in vs 23

-What was the sentiment behind Peter's comments?

-Why did Jesus refer to Peter in the way that He did in verse 23? Don't these comments contrast the ones spoken in verses 17 and 18?

2. Review vs 24- 28

-Do people really consider this cost when they decide to follow Christ?

Chapter 17

The Transfiguration

After six days, Jesus went up to a high mountain and He was transfigured before His Peter, James, and John. At that same time, Moses and Elijah appeared and started talking with Jesus.

1. What does "transfigured" mean? Can anybody do that?

2. Is there any significance behind why Jesus transfigured before these specific disciples?

-Why not the entire group of 12? Or, everyone that followed Him, for that matter?

3. What role do Moses and Elijah play in these events?

-Why not any two other men noted in the Bible- like Noah or Joshua, for instance?

-Is there any significance that these two men showed up during the transfiguration?

4. Review vs 5

-Why did God say this? Was it for Jesus' benefit? For the disciples?

-Hadn't these disciples already determined that Jesus was worth listening to?

5. In verse 9, Jesus instructed the men not to tell anyone until after Jesus rose from the dead.

-Imagine you were one of the disciples on that mountain? Would you be able to keep these events to yourself?

-How would it affect your future ministry? How did it affect theirs?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 16:13- 17:13

Matthew 16: 1-12

2009-03-14T21:31:00.004-06:00

Editor's note:

(Last week, per request, I added an outline to the Talksheet. Don't know if it was helpful or not. If it was helpful, let me know. Otherwise, I will go back to the more familiar method... jv)

************

The Demand for a Sign

1. Review vs 1

-Why did the Pharisees and the Sadducees wish to test Jesus? What was their goal?

2. Review Jesus' response to their request for a sign from heaven in vs 2 and 3

-What were the "signs of the times" when this was spoken by Jesus?

-Why were they not able to interpret these things? Was this due to their ignorance? Arrogance? Lack of faith? All of the above?

-What about the crowds that followed Jesus? Were they able to interpret these things? If they were not able to interpret them, why not?

-What about 2009? What stands in the way of people being able to interpret these matters today?

3. Review vs 4

-What is the sign of Jonah? Why was this sign given to the wicked and adulterous generation of the time of Jesus?

-How would people interpret it today?

The Yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees

Jesus warns the disciples against the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.

Review the dialogue between the disciples and Jesus in verses 7-12

1. If Jesus had advised you to "be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees," what would your reaction have been?

-Would you have taken it as a reprimand or as a warning? Something else?

2. After the disciples mistakenly interpret Jesus' warning, He points out their lack of faith. He then reminds them of His miracles of feeding many thousands of people.

-Why did He bring up these miracles? Why did he not reference His miraculous healing of the blind or making the lame walk?

-Why would the disciples be concerned about a lack of bread, especially after Jesus was miraculously able to provide bread twice?

-Why did the disciples so quickly forget these two miracles?

3. The disciples finally interpret Jesus' statements as a warning against the teaching of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.

-What was so bad about their teaching? Was Jesus referencing something else? Their cynical attitudes, maybe? Their lack of faith? Their hypocrisy?

4. In Matthew 13, Jesus told His audience that the "Kingdom of Heaven is like yeast that once mixed into flour, it eventually worked through out the dough."

-Was the "yeast" of the Pharisees and the Sadducees capable of spreading in the same fashion?

-If it was so dangerous, why didn't Jesus just plainly say that?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 16: 1-12

Matthew 15: 21-39

2009-03-07T22:32:00.011-06:00

Outline

I. Matthew 15: 21-28

A. A Canaanite woman from the region of Tyre and Sidon approached Jesus

1. The woman indicated that her daughter is suffering from demon possession.

2. At first, Jesus did not respond.

B. The disciples ask Jesus to send the Canaanite woman away.

1. The disciples were frustrated that the woman kept requesting Jesus' help.

C. Jesus advised the woman that He was sent to the lost sheep of Isreal.

1. He indicated that it is not right to take the bread meant for children and instead toss it to their dogs.

D. The woman pointed out that the dogs sometimes eat crumbs that fall from their master's table.

E. Jesus commended the woman's faith and healed her daughter.

II. Matthew 15: 29-39

A. Jesus left this area and went to a mountainside where He continued to heal those that came to Him.

1. The lame, the blind, those that were crippled and many others sought Jesus' healing.

2. The crowds were amazed at Jesus' miraculous healing.

3. They, in turn, praised the God of Israel.

B. Jesus continues to have compassion on the people and wanted them to be fed for they were following Jesus for 3 days.

1. The disciples questioned if there could be enough bread to feed the multitude of people.

C. With seven loaves and a few fish, Jesus fed the crowd of people.

1. Afterward, the disciples were able to pick up seven basketfuls of broken pieces.

2. Besides woman and children, there were four thousand people that were fed.

Discussion questions

1. Review vs 21-23

-Matthew pointed out that this woman was a Canaanite. Why did he add this information?

-Why did Jesus not answer her when she first called Him?

-Why were the disciples frustrated by her pleading for help?

-Why did the disciples feel that the woman was calling out for them?

2. Review vs 24.

-Who are the lost sheep of Israel?

-How did they come to be lost?

-Did they know they were lost?

-Why would God send Jesus to these people first? What about the rest of the lost?

3. Review vs 26

-Did Jesus' statement seem out of character? Is this a racist comment?

-Why would Jesus compare the woman to a dog?

-Why did Jesus say this to her, but not to any other Gentile that approached Him? This woman was not the only Gentile that Jesus healed or helped- (xref the Roman Centurion in Matthew 8...)

4. Let's take a second and breakdown the woman's response in verse 27

-Why did the lady not retreat into the crowd after this comment from Jesus?

-Why did she acknowledge that she was in low standing versus trying to defend herself?

-What are the crumbs that she referred to?

-Would you have felt defeated? Would you have just turned around and left?

5. Review Jesus response in v 28

-How did the woman's response show "great faith?"

-Why did Jesus change His course of action? Were the lost sheep of Israel no longer His chief concern?

Jesus Feeds the four thousand

In Matthew 14, Jesus healed 5 thousand people and faced a similar situation near the Sea of Galilee in Chapter 15.

1. After the people of the crowd were healed, vs 31 indicated that the crowd "praised the God of Israel."

-Was this a crowd of people that were not Israelites?

2. Why did Jesus bring the hunger of the crowd to the attention of the disciples?

-If the disciples had been with this crowd for 3 days, why hadn't they noticed that people hadn't eaten.

3. Review vs 33

-What led the disciples to forget that Jesus was able to feed this large group of people?

-Are the disciples just pointing out a fact or is this a lack of faith?

***

How are these stories related to the "clean and unclean" section at the beginning of Matthew 15?

***

Additional questions:

1. In reference to the story of the Canaanite woman, do you think that sometimes people don't approach Jesus because of the level of sin in their life? Do you think they view themselves as "dogs?"

2. Facing 4 thousand hungry men, women and children, the disciples question if there is enough food to feed them all. That said, they have witnessed Jesus feed more than these and even greater miracles.

-When we face trials in our life, why do we forget that God has taken us through even bigger trials in our past?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 15: 21-39

2009 Vision Update- March 7 and 8th

2009-02-28T22:25:00.006-06:00

Hopefully, your group has been able to go over Cornerstone's 2009 Vision Report....

In the book of Galatians, God tells us to carry our own load and carry each other's burdens. This next weekend, Pastors Troy and Jeff will go over this report during the services of March 7th and 8th. Discover how we should apply this teaching during our current economic situation.

Galatians 6: 2-5

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone things he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load.

***

If you haven't led your group through the report, please contact Jacob Varghese or your region's Shepherding Elder.

Thank you.

Matthew 15: 1-20

2009-02-18T14:33:00.012-06:00

Clean and Unclean

Looking to find fault in Jesus and His disciples, some Pharisees and teachers of the law criticized the disciples for not washing their hands before eating.

1. Review Jesus' response to the criticism in vs 3-10
-What would compel the teachers of the law to modify the word of God?

-What are some traditions that are part of the current church that are not found in the Bible? Why are these in place?

2. Review vs 7-9

-What are ways in which we honor Christ with our lips- but, this devotion is not seen in our hearts?

-As we look at our lives or the lives of others, do we get swayed by external appearances?

-Is your relationship with God more of an "external appearance" relationship or is it a relationship where He has your heart also?

Jesus explained in v 10 and again in vs 16-20 that it isn't what goes into one's mouth that makes him unclean, it is what comes out that makes him unclean.

1. What are some of your thoughts regarding these verses?

-Pornography and drug use are examples of things that come into a person that make them unclean. So, does this contradict what Jesus said in this verse?

2. Who are some of the people that society notes as "clean" versus "unclean?" How did these social rules develop?

3. What are some of the unclean things that have come from your heart?

-Generally, are you more concerned with what others think of you or are you more concerned with what Christ thinks of your heart?

-What would Christ say about your relationship with Him?

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Matthew 15: 1-20

Matthew 13:53- 14:36

2009-02-14T23:04:00.010-06:00

A Prophet without honor

After Jesus finished His parables He went to His home town of Nazareth. The people were amazed and took offense that He displayed such great wisdom and could perform miracles.

1. Imagine Jesus grew up in your home town.

-How would the citizens of the community receive Him?

-Would they be able to look past His earthly connections?

2. In verse 57, Jesus said, "Only in his hometown and in his own house is a prophet without honor."

-Why?

CHAPTER 14

John the Baptist beheaded

Apparently, a government official named Herod was in an adulterous affair with his brother's wife, Herodias. In line with his character, John the Baptist attempted to hold Herod accountable for this sin. Herod's response was to throw John in prison.

1. Is it easy for you to hold someone accountable to a sin issue in their life?

-If it is difficult, what are some of your reservations?

-Is it easier if it is someone closer to you? A friend or relative, perhaps?

2. If you knew your consequence would be as severe as being thrown into prison, would you still bring the sin up?

Later, on Herod's birthday, Herodias' daughter danced for Herod. Motivated by lust, he promised the daughter whatever she asked. Prompted by her mother, she asked for the head of John the Baptist. Herod then had John the Baptist beheaded.

1. What kind of character has Herod displayed through out this narrative?

-Was beheading John in line with this character?

2. Were you surprised that this was how John the Baptist's life ended?

-When he was in prison and/or facing execution, discuss what you feel was going through John's mind and heart. Do you think he regretted saying what he said to Herod?

Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand

A large crowd started to gather- to be near Jesus. As it got later into the evening, Jesus' disciples asked Him to send the crowd away so they could go to another area and buy food for themselves.

Review Jesus' response in verse 16

-If you were a disciple of Jesus and saw 5000 people standing around you, what would be going through your mind when He gave you the task of feeding them all?

-Would your faith have given you clarity at that moment that this would be a minor miracle in comparison to some of the things that you had already witnessed? Or, would you have seen this as a monumental task that could not be accomplished?

It was brought to Jesus' attention that there were 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish in the crowd. With these, Jesus gave thanks to His Father and fed all of the people in attendance AND had 12 basketfuls left over.

-If you were in the crowd and witnessed these events, what would be going on in your mind and heart?

-Would this miracle have drawn you closer to Jesus or would you have just marveled at the phenomenon from the side?

Additional question:

-If Jesus ultimately fed the crowd Himself, why did He first present the task to the disciples?

Jesus Walks on Water

After a short time alone, Jesus returned to His disciples that were in a boat off the coast. The King then walked on water to meet His disciples.

1. Describe how you would have responded if you witnessed this.

-Would you have shared the response of the disciples and been terrified?

-would Jesus' statement in verse 27 have confused you more or would it have brought you comfort?

2. Review verses 27-29

-What compelled Peter to get out of the boat and try to reach Jesus?

-It appears that for a short time, Peter walked on the water also. What do you think would have been some of his thoughts while doing this?

That said, he became aware of the wind and became afraid. When he began to sink, he cried out to God.

-Does this sound familiar? Have there been times in your life where you wanted to move forward in faith and you became aware of the pressures of this world?

-Did you sink or did you keep walking?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 13:53- 14:36

Matthew 13: 24-52

2009-02-07T22:10:00.006-06:00

Note from Jeff Dodge:

As we talked about at our last meeting, we are encouraging our church family to spend the season of Lent in prayerful anticipation of celebrating the resurrection of Christ. I think it could be a remarkable and life changing journey for us.

This weekend I will be talking to the Cornerstone family about this and I will encourage them to make it a discussion in their Connection Group. I want you to take a look at the blog that we have created as a guide. It includes a lot of helpful information on what Lent is, how we are seeking to celebrate it, and also some helpful ideas for how to make it personal. Here is the address for the blot:

http://agladsurrender.blogspot.com/

Encourage the people in your group to use Lent as a time to pray and fast in a way that perhaps will be brand new to them. Help them talk about ways that will make it meaningful. Encourage one another and do this together- a great way to spur one another toward Christ.

And, finally, I want to encourage you and the people in your group to add comments to some of the daily blogs- so that others can share your joy and so that we can learn from one another.

Thanks for shepherding God's People!

Jeff

***

Teaching: February 14th/15th

The Parable of the Weeds

Review vs 24-31 and 36-43

1. Jesus explained that He is the one that sowed the good seed and the field is the world.

-That said, who are the people that are sleeping in vs 25?

-Should they have been on the lookout for the enemy?

2. Jesus explained that the weeds are the sons of the evil one.

-What would one of these sons look like?

-Why would the enemy sow weeds among the wheat?

3. Do you agree with the farmer's decision to wait until the harvest to deal with the weeds?

4. Why would Jesus say that the "Kingdom of Heaven" is comparable to this parable?

The Parable of the Mustard Seed

Review vs 31- 33

How is the Kingdom of Heaven comparable to a small seed that becomes bigger over time?

-Why didn't the Kingdom of Heaven start big and continue to get bigger?

The Parable of the Yeast

Review vs 33

1. What is the dough of this parable? How about the flour?

2. Is the Kingdom of Heaven "working all through the dough" right now?

The Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl

Review vs 44-47

1. How or why is the Kingdom of Heaven hidden in the first place?

2. Why would someone that finds it, hide it again?

3. Is the reaction of everyone that finds this treasure the same?

-Why would some "sell everything they have" for it and others wouldn't?

4. What was your reaction when you discovered the "pearl of great value?"

-Did you feel it was worth selling everything of importance to you to hold onto it?

The Parable of the Net

Review vs 47-52

1. Who are the fishermen in this parable?

-What are "bad fish?"

2. Why would the angels wait until the end of the age to separate the wicked from the righteous? Why not do it now?

Additional question:

Jesus began all of these parables with the phrase, "the Kingdom of Heaven is like..." Why did Jesus portray the Kingdom of Heaven in so many ways?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 13: 24-52

Matthew 13: 1-23

2009-01-31T22:12:00.004-06:00

The Parable of the Sower

Jesus often used parables to communicate important information to those that were willing to listen. One of these was the Parable of the Sower.

As a group, review v 3-10.

1. Why would Jesus use this illustration from human life to share His Message?

-If you were a farmer in that time, would you have felt sympathetic to the loss of crop that the farmer in the parable experienced?

-Do you think that the farmer was careless in how he scattered his seed? Or, would you have thought the farmer to be wise in that he was scattering his seed in all possible soils to obtain the most possible yields?

2. Review vs 10 and 11

Jesus' disciples wonder aloud why Jesus spoke to the people in parables.

-Why did He? Would it not have been easier to just say what was on His mind?

-Why was the knowledge of the Kingdom of Heaven given to only a few? Does this seem fair?

3. Review vs 13-14

-How does one see without seeing? Or, hear without understanding?

-Is this something that people do on purpose? Does it happen over time?

-Do you know people that suffer from this problem? Are you one of them?

4. Review v 15

-How does a person's heart become calloused? Is this a life-long problem? Will their hearts ever be receptive to the Message that they are struggling to see or understand?

-Would you know if you have a calloused heart?

Review Jesus' interpretation of the Parable of the Sower in verses 18-23

1. Who is the farmer? What is the seed?

2. The seed that falls along the path and is eaten by the birds is comparable to a person that hears the Message, doesn't understand it, and the evil one snatches away what was sown.

-What does this look like? Does this happen often?

-If this person is someone in your life, what should our responsibility be in this scenario?

3. The seed that fell on rocky places did not have a secure root and the plants were scorched by the sun. Jesus compared this seed to a person that hears the Message with much joy in the beginning, but because there is no root, trouble or persecution in his life leads them away.

-Do you know someone like this?

-Do you recall the joy that they had when they first heard the Message and accepted Christ in their life?

-In their enthusiasm, did they think that troubles would cease because of their new relationship with Christ? Were they surprised that they were persecuted because of their new relation with Christ?

-Is there anyway to determine if the Message hasn't taken root?

-What should our responsibility be in this scenario?

4. Some seed fell among thorns and these thorns choked the plants. Jesus compared this to the one that heard the Message, but worries of this life and the things of this world made him unfruitful.

-Do you know someone like this?

-Was this an immediate loss or did the "thorns" choke the person over time?

-What should our responsibility be in this scenario?

5. Finally, Jesus noted that some seed fell on good soil and created a bountiful crop. He compared this to a person that hears the Message and understands it.

-What is the "good soil" of this parable? Is there anyway to create a lot of it?

-Why didn't the sower put all of the seed in "good soil?"

-How do we know if the person that has received the Message has seen it and understood it?

-What should our responsibility be in this scenario?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 13: 1-23

Matthew 12: 38-50

2009-01-24T07:16:00.008-06:00

The Sign of Jonah

In response to their request for a miraculous sign, Jesus calls the Pharisees and teachers of the law wicked and adulterous.

1. Review vs 38 and 39

-Why was it so important for the Pharisees and the teachers of the law to see a miraculous sign from Jesus?

-What kind of sign would they have considered a miracle? Why didn't they consider the healing of all diseases and sicknesses, a "miraculous sign?"

-In your opinion, was it really due to a lack of evidence that they did not place their faith in Christ?

-If you were unwilling to submit your life to the King, would it matter what sign you were given?

2. Jesus reminded the Pharisees that the people of Nineveh heard Jonah's message and repented of their sin. He added that the Pharisees were in the presence of someone greater than Jonah and they did not repent.

He also noted that the Queen of the South listened to the wisdom of Solomon. Jesus added that the Pharisees were in the presence of someone greater than Solomon and they did not listen.

-How would you have responded upon hearing this?

-Will our generation be condemned by those that heard the Message and repented? Will our generation be condemned for not listening to the Message?

(Related reading: Jonah 3:4-10 and 1 Kings 10:1-10, 13)

3. Review vs 43-46

The generation of people that first heard Jesus' message showed much interest in His teachings. However, they chose not to enter the Kingdom of God and their "final condition was worse than the first."

-As we study the message of the King, what has your response been?

-If your response has been to be excited about His miracles and encouraged by His message- but you hardened your heart and haven't invited Him in to occupy it- what will your final condition be?

Jesus Mother and Brothers

Jesus, again, distances Himself from those that appear holy and righteous on the outside. He refers to his true followers as His family- those that are doing the will of our Father.

1. Are you in His family?

2. Or, are you on the outside looking in? Will you be shocked at the day of judgement to see God's true family...from a distance?

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Matthew 12: 38-50

Matthew 12:22-37

2009-01-16T14:02:00.015-06:00

Jesus and Beelzebub

The Pharisees witnessed Christ healing a demon-possessed man and felt that it was due to the prince of demons that Jesus was able to drive the demons out...

1. Review vs 24
-Who or what is Beelzebub?
-Why would the Pharisees allege that the devil gave Jesus authority to cast out demons?

2. In verses 25-30, Jesus questioned why someone who controls a kingdom would support someone else dividing it? He then presented an example of a strong man that has control over his home- the only way that the house would be burglarized, would be if the strong man was tied up.
-Is the world divided into God's Kingdom and the Devil's Kingdom? Why would the devil support someone dividing his kingdom?
-Who is the strong man in this example?
-If Jesus is casting out demons, what has he done to the strong man?

3. Review vs 30
-Who is being "gathered" or "scattered" in Jesus' statement?
-Are you a "gatherer" or a "scatterer?"

4. In verses 31- 33, Jesus discussed blaspheming the Holy Spirit and it being an unforgivable sin. Let's take a few moments and discuss this...

A. What is blaspheming?
-How were the Pharisees blaspheming against the Holy Spirit?

B. As a group, read: 1 John 1: 9
-Does this verse somehow contrast what Jesus is saying?

C. Why would blaspheming against the Holy Spirit be unforgivable?
-When a person sees clear evidence provided by the Holy Spirit, (in this case a real miracle,) yet is so against it that he rejects it, is he blaspheming the Holy Spirit?
-Is it unforgivable, because the person who would blatantly say these things would also not seek forgiveness?

5. In verses 33-38, Jesus explained that a fruit tree can be seen as alive and healthy by the fruit it bears. He used this example to illustrate that someone who has a sinful heart will yield fruit in the same manner.
-Do you think this is valid?
-Can your actions and words give a reasonable image of what your heart looks like?
-If someone was to inspect the "fruit" of your life, what would they say? What comes from the overflow of your heart?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge
Matthew 12: 22-37

Matthew 12: 1-21

2009-01-09T15:07:00.006-06:00

The Lord of the Sabbath

When the Commandments were given to the Israelites, God said that the Sabbath, or the Seventh day, was to be kept holy. He advised them that no work should be done on the seventh day, even during the harvest season.

The Pharisees saw that the disciples were picking some heads of grain- perhaps, technically, this was a form of harvesting- and they questioned Jesus, accordingly.

1. Why did God want the Sabbath to be holy?

-So, if YOU have to work on Sunday- are you not keeping the Sabbath holy?

-Can you not work on Sunday and still not keep the Sabbath holy?

(Suggested reading: Exodus 20: 8-12, 34:21)

2. Review vs 2.

-What do you think is the motivation behind the Pharisees criticism of the disciples? Is it because of their "reverence" for God and His Commandments?

3. Review Jesus' response in vs 3-6

-Why was Jesus reminding the Pharisees of these events?

(Suggested reading: 1 Samuel 21: 3-6)

4. Review v 7

-What does "I desire mercy, not sacrifice," mean?

-Why would Jesus say this to the Pharisees? Was their version of God's Law unmerciful?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 12: 1-21

Matthew 11:20-30

2008-12-20T08:33:00.006-06:00

Woe on Unrepentant Cities

Frankly, most of the people that came to see Jesus, came to see His miracles. The unfortunate part was that they, generally, ignored His message and didn't repent. Jesus then began to denounce the cities in which most of the miracles had been performed.

1. Even, if you are not familiar with the location or the stories associated with Korazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, what is one thing that these cities had in common?

2. What does an "unrepentant city" look like?

-When we think, "unrepentant city," do we think of New York City or Las Vegas? What about Ames, Nevada, Story City, Boone, Gilbert or Ankeny? Are these "unrepentant cities?"

3. Jesus indicated that if the people of Tyre and Sidon had seen the miracles performed in Korazin and Bethsaida, they would have "repented in sackcloth and ashes."

-As a side note...what are "sackcloth and ashes." Why would people in a repentant city put these on?

-If the city that you live in saw Jesus' miracles, what would its response be?

Rest for the Weary

Jesus indicated, in v 25, that the things of God were being hidden from the "wise and learned" and were instead being revealed to little children.

1. Who were the "wise and learned?"

-Why would God hide anything from these people?

-If they were so "wise," why didn't they figure out the things of God on their own?

-Who are the "wise" people of 2008? Are the things of God being hidden from them still?

2. Why would God reveal these things to little children?

-Wouldn't it make more sense for God to reveal His wisdom to those that were older or more "wise and learned?"

3. Review v 26

-Why would God find pleasure in hiding these things from the "wise" and revealing it to little children?

4. Review v 27

-Is Jesus really the only Way to God?

-What about Hinduism, Buddhism, or Islam? Could you not use these ways to get to know God?

Jesus made an invitation to the overburdened around Him. Let's take a few minutes and discuss the invitation.

1. Review vs 28

-Have you ever felt weary and burdened? Is this a physical feeling? Or, does it have an emotional and spiritual component also?

-What were some ways in which you attempted to alleviate your weariness? Did you feel that your burden was lifted with those methods?

2. Review Jesus' invitation in vs 29 and 30

-How could Jesus' teachings give your soul rest?

-Have you experienced this rest that Jesus is offering you?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 11: 20-30

Matthew 11: 1-19

2008-12-14T08:38:00.005-06:00

Jesus and John the Baptist

(Suggested readings: Matthew Chapter 3 and 14: 3-6)

Earlier in Matthew's narrative, John the Baptist recognized Jesus as the One who will baptize with Holy Spirit and fire. Later, apparently, John developed some doubts....

1. Review v 2 and 3

-What would be some of the things that John would hear about in prison?

-Would these bring comfort to him? Excitement? Would he be discouraged in anyway?

-Why did doubt start to develop?

-What does this say about the humanity of John?

2. Review Jesus' response in vs 4 and 5

-If John had already heard these things while he was in prison, why would Jesus ask John's disciples to tell him again?

-In what way would Jesus' miracles support that He was the one that "was to come?"

3. Jesus added in v 6 that "Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of me."

-What does this mean?

-Would this statement have had any effect on John's disciples?

4. Review vs 7-16

-Why did Jesus contrast John against a "reed swaying in the wind?" How about His contrast of John against "those that wear fine clothes in king's palaces?"

-Why did Jesus have such a high opinion of John?

-If Jesus viewed John as a prophet, why did John need confirmation from Jesus about who He is?

5. In the final verses of this section, Jesus questioned the generation of John the Baptist. He pointed out that they refused to respond to the ministry of John as well as Jesus.

Review the last part of vs 19: "But, wisdom is proved right by her actions."

-What does this mean?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 11: 1-19

NO WEEKEND SERVICES- Dec 13, 14

2008-12-05T15:24:00.002-06:00

As a reminder, there will be no weekend services on Dec 13th and 14th due to Cornerstone's Christmas Production- Esmeralda

"Once upon a time, in a world very much like our own, there lived a young girl. Like all children, there was a time of year that she cherished above all. That time, of course, was Christmas. And so it was, that one Christmas she received a gift. Inside that gift lurked something dangerous, something that would change her life forever."

Production times:

Tuesday December 9th, 7:30 pm

Wednesday, December 10th, 7:30pm: Sold out

Thursday, December 11th, 7:30pm

Friday, December 12th, 7:30pm: Sold out

Saturday, December 13th:

2:00pm- Sold Out

5:00pm- Sold Out

8:00pm- Sold Out

Sunday, December 14th:

11:00am

2:00pm- Sold Out

5:00pm

Over 5000 tickets have been sold for this production! The tickets for these last services are going fast!!!

Invite your friends and family to Esmeralda to the remaining services!

Matthew 10: 17-42

2008-11-26T13:22:00.005-06:00

Jesus' advised his disciples in verse 16 that they were being sent out like sheep among wolves and that they should be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.

1. Review v 17

- Who are the men that Jesus is referring to in this verse?

- What would compel the men to turn the disciples into the local synagogues and have them flogged?

2. Notice in verses 17-19 that the matter is not one of IF the disciples of Christ will be arrested and persecuted, it is a matter of WHEN...

Jesus also comforted His disciples in these verses. He advised them not to worry about what to say or how to say it.

-If you were a disciple of Christ when these statements were made, what would be going through your mind?

-Would you have been wondering how to be the best witness to your faith? Would you have wondered what it would feel like to be flogged? Why did Jesus address the concern of what to say in front of those that are persecuting you versus the concern of BEING persecuted?

3. Review v 22

-What is it about Jesus' message that would lead people to hate you because of Him?

4. Review v 26

-Is Jesus referring to the hypocrisy of the religious elite? Was He saying that their lives were lived one way in public and another way behind close doors? Or, was this a warning to anyone living that way?

5. In verse 28, Jesus encouraged His disciples with the statement that they shouldn't be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, "be afraid of the One that can destroy both soul and body in hell."

-Is this encouraging to you?

-Why are we afraid of those that can kill the body? Why are so many people not afraid of the One that can destroy both body and soul in Hell?

6. Review verses 29-32.

-Jesus told His disciples that a sparrow can not fall to the ground, without God knowing about it. Would this encourage you? Or, would it discourage you that God was aware of the persecution and He allowed it to happen?

-He told the disciples that the very hairs on their heads are numbered by God. Why is this encouraging?

7. In verses 32 and 33, Jesus pointed out the consequence of disowning Jesus before others.

-Are we guilty of this?

-Discuss some examples in which we could have acknowledged Christ in front of others, but instead disowned Him.

8. In verse 34, Jesus explained that He did not come to bring peace to the earth, but a sword.

-What does this mean?

-Isn't Christ's message of love supposed to bring peace? Why would it cause division?

9. Later, He added that anyone that chooses his or her family over Christ is not worthy of Him.

-Is He worth that sacrifice?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 10: 17-42

Matthew 10: 1-16

2008-11-21T10:07:00.010-06:00

Jesus Sends out the Twelve

Jesus called his 12 disciples and gave them the authority to drive out evil spirits and heal every disease. He also gave them specific instructions...

1. Review v 5

-What is a Gentile? What are Samaritans?

-Does Jesus' instruction seem unloving? Are the Gentiles and Samaritans not worthy of His Message? (Suggested reading- Romans 1:16)

2. Review v 6

-Who are the lost sheep of Israel?

-How did they get lost?

-If they are lost, how will the disciples "find" them?

3. Jesus told them in v 8 to preach the message of His Kingdom. He also advises them to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those that have leprosy, and drive out demons.

-Why did Jesus give this authority to His disciples?

-Do you think that ALL of the disciples used this authority?

-Why do you think that we don't routinely see people being raised from the dead, etc., today?

-Does this affect the central message of the Gospel?

4. Jesus told the disciples in verses 9 and 10 to leave their homes without taking along any money or extra clothing.

-Why would He instruct the disciples to not bring any belongings with them?

-Would this instruction have been easy for them? (As if any of Jesus' instructions have been easy...)

5. Jesus said in vs 11, that they should look for a worthy person in any town that they enter. Also, in v 12, He tells them to rest their peace on any deserving home.

-In reference to these verses, what is a worthy person? Would the disciples be able to tell the difference between a worthy person and an unworthy one?

-What is a deserving home? How does one "rest their peace" on it?

6. Review v 14

-If someone did not welcome a disciple into his or her home, was this a hospitality issue or were they saying that they did not want Jesus' message in their lives?

-Does this instruction mean that Jesus is ok with the sheep remaining lost?

7. Sodom and Gomorrah were considered two of the most sinful cities of the Old Testament- (see Genesis 18: 20-33 an 19: 1-29)

-Why would Jesus compare a city that is not open to the message of Christ to two of the most notoriously sinful cities of the Old Testament?

-Why would Sodom and Gomorrah's day of judgement be more bearable than that town's? Does this seem fair?

8. Review vs 16

-Why would Jesus send His disciples out with this warning?

-If they had the ability to heal the sick and cast out demons, wouldn't they be able to protect themselves?

Teacher: Tim Lubinus

Matthew 10: 1-16

Matthew 9: 27-38

2008-11-14T10:07:00.013-06:00

Jesus Heals the Blind and the Mute

1. Review v 27

-Why did the blind men call Jesus the Son of David? What did that mean? How would they have known this information?

2. Review v 28

-Why did Jesus ask this question?

-Why didn't He ask EVERYONE that He healed?

3. Review v 30= Despite Jesus' warning, the blind men tell the whole region about Him

-Is it possible to have a high level of faith AND be disobedient?

After Jesus healed the blind men, a mute man who was demon-possessed was brought to Jesus. Jesus drove the demons out of the man, which led the Pharisees to question the affiliation of Jesus.

1. Review v34

-Who is the prince of demons?

-If what the Pharisees were saying was true, why would the prince of demons give Jesus the authority to drive demons OUT of people?

-After witnessing all that Jesus had done, why would the Pharisees spread this rumor about Jesus?

The Workers are Few

The King went through all the towns and villages and noticed that the people were harassed and helpless.

Let's take some time to break down vs 37 and 38

1. Jesus tells his disciples that the "harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few."

-Why did/does Jesus view the harassed and helpless people in the crowds as a harvest?

-Who are the workers? How did they become workers? Why are there so few of them?

2. Jesus also tells the disciples, "Ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest field."

-Who is the Lord of the harvest?

-Is it His fault that there are not enough workers and too much harvest?

-Why do we have to ask the Lord of the harvest for help?

-Do we have some responsibility to find other workers or is just asking the Lord of the harvest enough?

Big picture questions:

As it pertains to ministering to the needs of others, it is said that about "20% of the Body, do 80% of the work." This statistic basically means that there are many emotionally, physically and spiritually sick people out there and only a few people that are doing anything about it.

1. Who are part of the harvest?

-Do you have to be "harassed and helpless" to be part of the harvest?

-Are your unbelieving friends or relatives in the harvest? Your coworkers? Your enemies?

2. Where is the harvest?

-Are the "harassed and the helpless" the ones that seek out assistance or spiritual guidance?

-Is it their responsibility to come out to the workers?

3. Why are there so few workers?

-Do the 80% not see the problem? Is it an issue of priority? Do the 80% feel that their needs are more important than the needs of others? Are you in the 80%?

4. What is our responsibility?

-Do you see that the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few? Does that bother you?

-Are you actively working in the harvest?

-Are you asking God for help or is it your private mission to work in the harvest on your own?

-What are you doing to raise up other workers?

Matthew 9: 27-38

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 9: 9-26

2008-11-07T19:12:00.011-06:00

The Calling of Matthew

Imagine a toll booth along the side of a dusty road outside Capernaum in the time of Jesus. Inside that booth is Matthew, a tax collector. As a Jewish tax collector, he would be an agent of the "enemy" of the Jews- the oppressive Roman Empire. Basically, he collected the hard-earned money of the Jewish people and then paid the taxes imposed by Caesar.

Jewish tax collectors were seen as outcasts and traitors. Jesus, purposefully, sought out Matthew- someone that society shunned.

1. A man with Leprosy, a Roman Centurion, two demon possessed men, and now a tax collector...

-What are some things that these people had in common?

-Why did Jesus pursue people like this? Would His ministry not have been effective if He only pursued the social elite- the very rich, the scholars, etc.?

2. Jesus walked up to the tax collector and simply said- "Follow me."

-Why didn't Matthew ask "where" or "why?"

3. Jesus accompanied Matthew to his house where a dinner was being served. At this dinner, there were other tax collectors and people that are noted as "sinners" in the text.

-Who would be seen as a "sinner" in the time of Jesus? How about in 2008?

-If eating dinner with someone was seen as a sign of friendship, why would Matthew call these "sinners" his friends?

4. The Pharisees are shocked that Jesus was eating dinner with these "sinners." In response to their shock, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick." He continued with "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."

-Why would a sinner need to be spiritually healed?

-Would they recognize this need?

-What did Jesus mean when He said that He "did not come to call the righteous?" Isn't being righteous a good thing? Was Jesus referring to those that are self-righteous?

Jesus Questioned about Fasting

Jesus was questioned about why His disciples were not fasting.

1. What is fasting?

-Why do people do it?

-What are some inappropriate reasons to fast?

2. Review v 15

-Why does Jesus refer to Himself as the bride groom?

-Why would Jesus say that an appropriate time to fast would be after He leaves?

A Dead Girl and A Sick Woman

A woman's medical issue has led to bleeding for 12 years.

1. Like leprosy, her bleeding would make her ceremoniously unclean...

-How would this illness affect her socially? Spiritually?

2. Review v 20, 21

-Why would this sick woman believe that healing could be brought about by simply making contact with the clothes that Jesus wore?

-Is her faith similar to that of the Roman Centurion or is it different in some way?

3. Review v 22

-How did this faith develop?

-Do you have that level of faith?

-What if Jesus hadn't healed her? Would her faith have changed? Would yours?

A ruler in the area came to Jesus for healing of his young daughter. However, when he approached Jesus, the daughter was already dead...

1. Imagine you were able to witness the miracles that occurred in the time of Jesus.

-Would you naturally assume that He also had the power over death and that He could resurrect your daughter?

-If you had mentioned this to your family, before you left your home to look for Jesus, what do you think their reaction would be? Do you think that they would share your faith?

2. When Jesus arrived at the ruler's house, He told the assembled crowd to "Go away, the girl is not dead but asleep."

-What did Jesus mean by this statement?

-Why did He indicate that she was sleeping and not dead? Wouldn't the family have known the difference?

-If the child was able to "sleep" through the noise, why did Jesus ask for noisy crowd to "go away?"

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 9: 9-26

Matthew 8: 23-9:8

2008-10-31T08:25:00.012-06:00

Jesus Calms the Storm

Jesus, being God and also fully human, is sleeping in the midst of a furious storm at the beginning of this section of Matthew's narrative. His disciples were in the same boat, but were not as calm...

The disciples had been in the company of Jesus while He healed many and cast out demons with a word. However, it appears that during this storm, their faith was shaken.

(Suggested reading Job 38)

1. Let's discuss the disciple's reaction to this storm...

-As they had personally witnessed the great miracles of Jesus Christ, why did they not turn to Christ first- before worrying?

-Was their lack of faith due to the personal nature of this trial? For instance, they had seen Jesus saving others from death. Would it take a greater level of faith if it involved their own lives?

2. When people are in the midst of a severe thunder storm, what are some theories of how it started or when it will end?

-Is it more likely that they will attribute the control of the weather to "Mother Nature" or some other abstract hollow philosophy before they recognize this as the power of God?

-When YOU think of God, do you believe that He controls the waves of the sea and that He is the father of the rain as spoken of in Job 38?

-Is it hard for you to believe that God can control the direction of a lightning bolt- for it to strike exactly where He meant for it to go?

3. That God, in human form, stood in a boat and rebuked the winds and the waves. By His words, everything became calm.

-Discuss how the disciples may have reacted when they witnessed this.

-Why was it a shock to them? Was it because they had never personally witnessed Him controlling the weather? Or, did they believe that this storm was out of His sphere of influence?

4. Recall an emotional storm that you have faced or are facing.

-Did you wonder if Christ would be able to guide you through it?

-Had you seen Christ do radical things in the lives of others and questioned if His range of influence would include the trial in your life?

-After the trial had passed, were you shocked that God was able to do even greater things than you imagined or had previously witnessed?

The Healing of Two Demon-Possessed Men

Jesus arrived in Gadarenes and two demon possessed men approached Him. Immediately, they recognized Him as Son of God.

1. How would they know this information?

(Review James 2:19)

2. What can be said about the reaction of the demon possessed men?

-What is the "appointed time" that they are referring to?

-Why would they be tortured during that time?

As a side note:

The demons are cast out of Jesus and sent into a herd of pigs. Considering that God advised the people of Israel in the time of Moses that the pig is an unclean animal, why is there a thriving pig industry in this area outside Galilee?

Chapter 9

Jesus Heals a Paralytic

Some men brought a man that was paralyzed to Jesus. Their faith led Jesus to forgive the sins of the paralyzed man

1. Was the paralyzed man asking for forgiveness?

-What led him to believe that Jesus could fulfill this request?

2. The teachers of the law immediately responded and criticized Jesus of being a blasphemer. Review Jesus' response in verse 4.

-In your opinion, which is easier to say: "Your sins are forgiven," or "Get up and walk?"

3. The crowd that saw these events were amazed that this "authority had been given to men."

-Was this authority given specifically to the man known as Jesus or to all of mankind?

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Matthew 8: 23-9:8

Matthew 8: 1-22

2008-10-23T15:04:00.009-06:00

The Man with Leprosy

According to Dictionary.com, (the unofficial Cornerstone Staff dictionary...,) leprosy is defined as a "slowly progressive, chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium Leprae. It damages nerves, skin, and mucous membranes and can lead to loss of sensation, paralysis, gangrene, and deformity if left untreated."

The book of Leviticus notes that people with this condition would also be considered ceremonially unclean.

1. How would this disease affect a person socially? Financially? Emotionally? Spiritually?

2. Review vs 2.

-Discuss what his thoughts may have been as he was approaching Jesus.

-Would these thoughts have influenced why he started his request to Jesus with the words, "Lord, if you are willing...?"

-What thoughts or feelings would some of the people in the large crowd have had as the man with leprosy approached Jesus for healing?

3. Jesus tells the man with leprosy that He is indeed willing and cures the leprosy. Now, everything has changed. The man with leprosy will be able to find a good paying job, develop more social connections, and enter the temple for worship. Imagine his excitement!

-Why would Jesus tell him not to tell anyone?

4. Fast forward to 2008...

-Who are the "lepers" of our society? Basically, who are the people that we find ourselves avoiding? The homeless? The mentally ill? Single mothers?

-Have you ever felt like an outcast? What were some of the feelings associated with that time of your life?

-How have we, as a church, responded to those that society shuns?

The Faith of the Centurion

A Roman military officer in charge of 100 soldiers approached Jesus asking for help in regard to his sick servant.

1. Let's take a few minutes and break down the motivation of why the centurion approached Jesus. Imagine you were the centurion...

-If you were the centurion, would you have first taken the servant to the best physicians that you could afford?

-What would compel you, a high-ranking member of the Roman army, to approach a poor Jewish man for healing? Would this have been your last resort?

-What would your friends and colleagues think?

-Do you think that the centurion considered these things before approaching Christ?

2. After the centurion presented his request to Jesus, Jesus responded by saying, "I will go and heal him." The centurion's response is noted in verses 8-10.

-Why would the centurion respond in this way?

-What does his method of leadership have to do with Jesus coming to his house?

3. When Jesus heard the centurion's response, He was astonished by his faith.

-Why did Jesus feel that the centurion showed great faith?

(Suggested reading: Hebrews 11:1)

Jesus Heals Many

Capernaum, and specifically, Peter's house, became Jesus' "base of operations." Many came to this location to seek healing.

1. Review v. 16

-If Jesus drove out spirits with a word and healed all of the sick in the same manner, why didn't He just heal EVERYONE and wipe out all illness while He was on the earth?

-Was this the primary purpose of Jesus' ministry?

The Cost of Following Jesus

A person approached Christ and advised Him that he would follow Jesus, but first he needed to bury his father. Review Jesus' response in v 22.

1. What did Jesus mean by this response?

-Does His response seem uncaring? Or, is He just being frank regarding the cost of being a disciple?

2. What is the cost of following Jesus?

-Is it the loss of family and friends? Is persecution part of the cost? Is submitting your heart, mind and soul to His Lordship a cost?

-For those that currently don't follow Christ, which of these is the most "costly?"

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 8:1-22

Matthew 4: 12-25

2008-10-18T07:15:00.011-06:00

Jesus Begins to Preach

1. Review vs 12. It appears that Jesus began His ministry after John the Baptist was put in prison- (the reason for his imprisonment will be discussed later in Matt 14:1-14)

-Why did Jesus wait until after John was imprisoned?

2. Jesus withdrew from Galilee and moved to Capernaum.

-Why would He have left His hometown of Nazareth?

(Suggested reading: Luke 4: 14-31)

3. Review v 14-17 and Isaiah 9:1-2. Matthew noted that Jesus was again fulfilling Scripture...

-How would Christ's arrival be a Light to those that were living in darkness? Would those living in darkness have recognized Jesus in this manner?

4a. review vs 17. Matthew noted the "Kingdom of Heaven" over 30 times in his writings.

-What is the "Kingdom of Heaven?"

-How is the reign of God brought about through Jesus Christ?

-How does the Kingdom of Heaven differ from an earthly kingdom?

-Specifically, how would Jesus' version of a Kingdom look different than the people of Israel's version? For instance, would those that were looking for a grand king that would save Israel from its enemies, have noticed Jesus as that king? Would their narrow view include a King that would remove the consequences of their sin?

4b. Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near."

-Why would the proximity of Jesus' Kingdom necessitate repentance?

The Calling of the First Disciples

1. Review vs 18 and 21.

-Why did Jesus first approach fishermen to be His disciples? Why didn't He choose educated men that held positions of greater prominence in the area?

2. In verse 19, Jesus says "Come follow me and I will make you fishers of men."

-What does this mean?

-If fishing was their livelihood, why would this statement compel them to throw down their nets and follow Jesus?

-If Jesus approached us in this same manner, would we have been ready for this task? If Jesus' statement meant living in a manner worth of God and aggressively pursuing souls for His Kingdom, are you ready now?

Jesus Heals the Sick

1. review v 23-25. Jesus went throughout Galilee teaching, preaching and healing the sick. News about Him obviously began to spread. This wasn't the year 2008- a time of mass-media with news that can spread over the internet, television and the press...

-That said, what are some of the things that people would have said about Jesus?

-Would they have placed more focus on His healing of the sick or would His message have been the focus?

-Would less people have talked about Him if He hadn't healed anyone?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 4:12-25

******

PLEASE NOTE: CHAPTERS 5, 6 and 7 will not be covered in this teaching series as they were covered in the Kingdom Manifesto Series.

Audio messages of this series are available here:

www.cornerstonelife.com/connect_grow/resources/messages_manifesto.php

Blog questions for that series can be found in the Blog Archive between months February-June.

Matthew 4: 1-11

2008-10-09T09:19:00.007-06:00

The Temptation of Jesus

1. Review vs 1.
-What is the difference between being "tested" and being "tempted?"
-Why would the Spirit lead Jesus into the desert to be "tempted" by the Devil?
(See Hebrews 4:15)

2. It appears that the Devil approached Jesus after He had been fasting for 40 days and 40 nights.
-Is there some significance to the timing of this temptation?
-Is it common for the Devil to tempt us when our defenses are down? For instance, does he seek us out at the end of the day when we are tired or hungry? Does he tempt us the most when we are alone and disconnected from the Body? Or, is the greatest time of temptation after an extended period of not being in the Word or praying?

3. The devil begins his temptations with the words, "If you are the Son of God...," in at least two of his attempts.
-Would the devil not have been aware of the relationship between Christ and God?
-Why do you suppose he started his dialogue with Christ in this manner?

4. The first temptation involves the devil tempting Christ into using his supernatural powers as the Son of God for His own needs.
-Would it have been a sin for Christ to turn the stone into bread?
-What does it say about Jesus that He relies on God for spiritual feeding and not on His own abilities?

5. Review verses 5 and 6.
-Is the devil attempting to tempt Christ or bring God's Faithfulness into question in this temptation? Both?
-If the devil's first attempt to tempt Jesus involved bread for a man that hadn't eaten in 40 days, what is the attractive nature of the second temptation?
-This time the devil also cites Scripture. Is it being misused? What is the proper context of the Scripture being cited by the devil-Psalms 91:11,12?

6. Review vs 8 and 9.
-The devil offers "all of the Kingdoms of the World" to Jesus. Does he have the kingdoms of the world under his control in the first place?
-Why would the devil choose this temptation? How would world dominion be a temptation to Christ? How would bowing down to Satan interfere with Jesus' mission noted in Matthew 1:21?

Additional questions:
-What can be said about Jesus' response to the devil in all 3 temptations? For example, why did Jesus choose Scripture to defeat the devil in all of his attempts? What example is He setting for us?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge
Matthew 4: 1-11

Matthew 3

2008-10-03T12:31:00.008-06:00

John the Baptist Prepares the Way

1. Review vs 4. Imagine that you were approached by a guy eating bugs and dressed in camel hair.

-Would you be resistant to his message?

-What drew people from Jerusalem, Judea and the whole region of the Jordan to listen to John the Baptist despite his appearance?

2. The religious elite approach John and immediately he holds them accountable for their sin. Review vs 8-10.

-What are the "fruits" that come with repentance? Do you struggle with producing this "fruit?"

-When he says that the ax is already at the root of the trees and that every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down, does that worry you?

3. Review vs 11 and vs 12

John the Baptist explained to the religious elite and the crowds surrounding him that he baptized with water for repentance. However, he noted that one day Christ would come and baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire.

-What is the difference?

-What is the meaning of his symbolism regarding wheat and the chaff?

-Would you consider yourself "wheat" or "chaff?"

The Baptism of Jesus

1. Jesus came from Galilee to be baptized by John. John felt that it would be more appropriate for Jesus to baptize him instead. In contrast, Jesus replied that it was proper to be baptized by John in order to "fulfill all righteousness."

-What does this mean? Why was it important that John baptize Jesus?

-What is the significance of baptism? Is this an example that Christ is setting for his followers?

Special note: All three persons of the Trinity are seen in verses 16-17, (God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.)

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 3

Matthew 2

2008-09-26T12:52:00.005-06:00

The visit of the Magi

What can we gather about who the Magi were?

For instance, as they were looking for the "King of the Jews," it is likely that they were Gentiles. But, let's examine them a bit further...

1. Review vs 1.

-Any idea where they were from?

-Why would Gentiles from another area wish to worship the King of the Jews?

-What can be said regarding their awareness that this King would be born a King and not that He would become one later?

2. What is the traditional story of the Magi?

For instance, sometimes the Magi are referred to as the 3 kings or the 3 wise men.

-Is there any reference in the Gospels that indicate that they were kings? Any reference that there were 3 of them?

-Are they traditionally called "wise men" because they were able to discern the location of the King? Or, were they deemed wise because of their wish to worship Him as Lord?

3. King Herod attempts to manipulate the Magi into revealing the location of the King.

-Why is he interested in where the King is? Why would Christ's birth disturb Herod?

-What can we say about his reaction vs the reaction of the Magi?

4. Review vs 6. Those that were familiar with the writings of the prophet Micah would have been aware that the Shepherd of Israel would be born in Bethlehem.

-If you were a Jew during that time, would this information bring you hope? Why?

-What feelings would arise if you were not a Jew?

The Escape to Egypt

An Angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph and warns him of Herod's quest to kill Jesus. Joseph obediently takes Mary and the baby Jesus to Egypt until the death of Herod.

1. What is the significance of this part of the narrative?

-What is Matthew's motivation for adding it?

-Discuss the parallels between God calling the nation of Isreal out of Egypt and this story.

The Return to Nazareth

After leaving Egypt, Joseph and his family settle in a town called Nazareth. This is a city that is not mentioned anywhere in the Old Testament. (If you also read John 1:45-46, the disciple Nathaniel, notes his displeasure with this city.)

Consider the following:

Jesus had to flee persecution from the king within days of His birth and landed in a "blink and you will miss it" city outside Galilee...

1. Is this fanfare normally associated with the birth of a king?

2. Why would the God of all Creation step into the world in this manner?

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Matthew 2

Matthew 1

2008-09-18T08:57:00.022-06:00

The Genealogy of Jesus

1. Review some of the names noted in the genealogy of Jesus.

-Do some names sound familiar? Discuss some of the history associated with these names.

2. There are 4 women named in Matthew's genealogy.

-Who were these women?

At least 2 of these women lived lives of questionable character- Rahab was a prosititute, Bathsheba committed adultery...

-Why were they included in Jesus' genealogy?

3. Review vs 16. Why is Joseph noted as the husband of Mary, but not the father of Jesus?

4. In vs 18, we read that Mary was found to be pregnant.

-If you were Mary, how would you have reacted to this information?

-What would have been the reaction within her family?

5. Vs 19 indicates that Joseph wanted to deal with Mary's pregnancy quietly.

-What would have been Mary's outcome if Joseph had decided to expose her?

-What does this say about Joseph's character?

6. Review the information that the angel tells Joseph in verses 20 and 21.

-If you were Joseph, how would you respond to this information?

-If you were Joseph, would it be more difficult to believe that Jesus was conceived from the Holy Spirit or that Jesus would save His people from their sins?

-Matthew doesn't record any dialogue that Joseph may have had with this angel. What are some questions that you would have asked?

6. Review vs 22 and 23.

-Why did Matthew reference a prophet in the Old Testament in regard to the birth of Jesus?

-Why would it be necessary to link Jesus' birth with prior prophesies?

7. Vs 25 indicates that Jesus was born of a virgin.

-Why is this important?

-What else can we say about Mary from this text? For instance, is there any evidence that Mary was without sin?

Additional reading: Luke 3:23-38

-Discuss some of the differences between the two sections and the genealogies of Jesus.

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 1

The Book of Matthew

2008-09-18T08:57:00.021-06:00

First Look: The coming of the King

The Old Testament prophets told of a coming King- One who would free them from evil tyranny and be a ruler and shepherd of His people. As we open the pages of the New Testament, we begin with the story of this King.

***

Going forward, I will try to release the Cornerstone Leaders Talksheet discussion questions one week prior to the service versus a few days before. This decision was based on the feedback of some groups that go over the section a week before the teaching. This small change will allow all groups to use this talksheet as a resource.

Thanks,

Jacob Varghese

Your Move: Renew

2008-09-18T08:57:00.015-06:00

As we enter our third year of Your Move, we stand in awe of His deeds. God stirred our hearts two years ago to be part of His vision in sacrificial ways. Join us this weekend at RENEW, a special weekend service of inspiration, encouragement, challenge and celebration!

This week in your connection groups, let's encourage discussion regarding "Your Move:"

1. Why is Cornerstone involved in the capital project that is currently underway?

2. Why is it necessary to sacrificially give to advance God's Kingdom?

3. What are other ways to be involved in this process?

4. Did you get a chance to read the new Intersect magazine? What were some of the stories that you were inspired by?

Remember, God is already moving- what will "Your Move" be?

***

Free tickets are being issued in order to achieve equal distribution among services. All services will be in the auditorium.

Childcare is provided for children ages 3 and under for all five services.

Speakers: Troy Nesbitt and Jeff Dodge

Daniel 11-12

2008-09-13T14:32:00.007-06:00

The king who exalts himself...

The "one who looked like a man" continues his discussion with Daniel regarding events that will unfold over time. The culmination of these events is seen in the rise of the king of the north, (ch 11: 25-45.)

1. As you read through the first section of Chapter 11, what are some of your thoughts?

-Do you feel these events have already happened? If so, what nations may have represented some of the kingdoms that are noted? (For instance, was China the kingdom from the North? Was it the former U.S.S.R.? Was it the kingdom of Alexander the Great? The Third Reich?)

-Do you feel that these events are yet to come?

2. In either case, it appears that the king of the North has or will invade the South, vs 29. His armed forces will rise up and desecrate the temple fortress. In the New Testament, Jesus references this leader and indicates that he will erect an "abomination that causes desolation," (Matthew 24:15)

-What is desolation?

-What can anyone do that would desolate God's Temple?

3. Despite the strength of this king, "those who are wise" will instruct many and as a result will be persecuted.

-Who are the wise?

-What will be their instruction for those that will listen?

4. The king will exalt himself. He will say blasphemous things against the One, True God. Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalonian church identified this man as the "man of lawlessness," (2 Thes 2: 1-13.)

-What would compel this king to exalt Himself above God?

-What will the period of lawlessness look like that he will usher in?

-Will this be the Anti-christ? Has this world seen many men of "lawlessness?" How are we to know when this king will rise?

-If in due time, the king's control will run out, does it matter if we know when he will first show up?

After a time of great anguish, bodies that were dead and buried will rise up- some will go to everlasting life and some will go to everlasting contempt, (12:1-3.) These are the first verses of the last chapter of Daniel.

-What should our response be to the book of Daniel?

-Should we be spending time defining who, what, where or when- or- should we orient our lives to something more purposeful as a follower of Christ?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Daniel 11-12

Daniel 10

2008-09-06T16:52:00.004-06:00

In the third year of Cyrus, a revelation was given to Daniel. Discuss the context of this passage. It is likely that Daniel was perhaps 80 years old when this revelation occurred.

1. Review vs 2.

-Why was Daniel fasting for 3 weeks?

-What can we say so far about Daniel's life and his relationship with God?

-How would you define his prayer life? Does he pray when problems arise? Is he in on-going communication with God?

-Why does he feel that prayer is the solution to all that he faces?

2. Review Vs 11. Daniel is seen as highly esteemed.

-What does this mean?

-How does one become "esteemed" by God?

-Why does God choose Daniel? Is he special in some way that is not defined in the Text?

Through this passage, we see that Daniel is approached by an angel. Daniel's response is one of fear and trembling.

-How are angels illustrated in our society? One example is a chubby little boy angel playing a harp...

-If society's version of an angel is accurate, why is Daniel afraid?

That said, in the Book of Ephesians we learn that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of evil, (Ephesians 6:12.)

-What does this mean?

-Do you believe that there is a supernatural battle for your soul and for the souls of your loved ones?

-What should our response be to this information?

Teacher: Mark Arant

Daniel 9

Daniel 7-9

2008-08-30T16:56:00.005-06:00

This section begins with Daniel's account of a dream that he had during his sleep. Daniel's dream involved four great beasts that came from the sea. Discuss the dream as a group.

1. If the interpretation was not given to you, what would be some of the thoughts associated with this dream?

2. Would it trouble you? Is it a comforting dream?

Daniel is given the interpretation of his dream. Within the dream, he learns the meaning of the fourth beast. Traditionally, the fourth beast has been associated w/ the rise of the Antichrist.

Review vs 19-26.

1. Do you think these events will happen in your lifetime? What do you think this will look like?

2. Despite the aggressive nature of the fourth beast and the kingdoms associated with it, the Most High will destroy their attempts to overthrow Him.

-Do you think that they will be aware of this outcome?

-Does it seem futile that they would battle against God anyway?

-Why do we do it?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Daniel 7-9

Daniel 6

2008-08-22T14:09:00.004-06:00

Daniel in the Den of Lions

With God on His side, Daniel has continued to distinguish himself during the reign of Darius. In a jealous response, his opponents attempted to find corrupt charges against Daniel. In the end, they were unable to find neither corruption or negligence. Instead they approached King Darius with a proposition to trap Daniel- If anyone prayed to anyone except the king, send him or her to the den of lions.

1. Review vs 10. What does Daniel's boldness say about his faith? How did this boldness develop? Why did he not change his normal routine?

2. Do you think that others took notice and displayed similar courage or did they choose to bow before the king?

After seeing that Daniel did not bow before the king, his opponents bring the charge before Darius. Based on the decree that Darius issued, Daniel is sent to the den of lions.

1. What do you think was going through Daniel's mind as he was being lowered into the den? Do you think he was having any second thoughts?

2. As this event happened after his friends were rescued from the fiery furnace, do you think he naturally felt that God would save him also? Was this feeling strengthened when God shut the mouths of the lions?

Discuss the remainder of the story with your connection group.

1. Do you think that Daniel ever took his relationship with God for granted? If your life had events where God's influence could not be questioned, would you attribute this to the living God or would you note it as coincidence?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Daniel 6

Connection Group Leaders Kick-Off

2008-08-17T10:45:00.002-06:00

Please note that this weekend is Cornerstone's Connection Group Leader's Kick-off Training.

If you are a Connection Group leader or Co-leader in one of Cornerstone's geographic regions, please contact Cornerstone for more information.

FYI...

Where: Cornerstone Gym

When: Aug 17, 2008

2-5 pm, a meal will follow.

BY INVITATION ONLY

Daniel 3

2008-08-10T08:36:00.003-06:00

At the end of chapter 2, Nebuchadnezzar indicates that he feels that the God of Daniel is a God that reveals mysteries. He notes that this God is "the God of gods and the Lord of Kings." However, his true heart is revealed in chapter 3....

1. What was the motivation behind Nebuchadnezzar's decision to make a golden image of himself?

-What would have compelled him to make the announcement he made to Daniel at the end of chapter 2, (vs 47,) and then move forward with the decision to make this image?

2. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego decide to NOT bow down to the image of Nebuchadnezzar.

Despite persecution that they face, they unashamedly decide to make this courageous choice.

Nebuchadnezzar's response is to prepare a blazing furnace for them to be thrown into.

A. Does this change their minds? What does vs 16 and 17 reveal about Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego's faith?

-What does it say about their understanding of God's Will?

B. Consider if you were in a similar situation.

-How would you respond?

-What would you be thinking as you are approaching the enterance to the fiery furnace?

-On a smaller level, do you face persecution in your workplace or in your relationships in regard to your faith in Christ? How do you respond?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Daniel 3

Daniel 2

2008-08-02T14:58:00.007-06:00

King Nebuchadnezzar has a dream and he summons his royal court with a unusual task: 1. Tell him what the dream was and 2. interpret it.

1. Why would Nebuchadnezzar demand that he be told what his dream was before it was interpreted?

Vs 10 explores the problem the royal court faced: No man on the earth could do what Nebuchadnezzar was asking! Facing execution also, Daniel and his friends pray for God to intervene.

If you were facing a similar situation, how would you react? Would prayer be the first thing you would do?

-Why would God intervene in your problem?

2. Daniel advises Nebuchadnezzar that indeed no man on this earth would be able to fulfill the king's request. He then indicates, in v 28, that there is a God in Heaven who reveals mysteries.

-Daniel then begins to discuss w/ the king what his dream was and what it will come to pass as a result of it.

Daniel tells the king that in time, Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom will fall and new kingdoms will rise in its place. He also reveals that one day the God of Heaven will build His kingdom and it will endure forever.

1. If you were the king, how would you respond to this information? (Read chapter 3 for the kings response...)

2. Why did Daniel give God glory in this story? If he knew the dream and the meaning of the dream, why didn't he use it for his own glory?

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Daniel 2

Daniel 1

2008-07-26T14:19:00.004-06:00

"In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it." These are the first words of the book of Daniel.

1. The verses continue and we see that Judah was exiled to Babylon.

-How did this happen?

-Why didn't Judah listen to the prophets that warned them of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry?

2. Daniel and his friends- (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego)- are some of the first to be deported to Babylon?

-Who are they?

-What role are they to play in Babylon?

3. Review vs 5-17

-Why would Daniel and his friends avoid eating the food presented to them?

-What does this action say about Daniel and his friends? Are they being rebellious?

4. God blesses these men w/ knowledge and understanding- see vs 17.

-Why would these be useful in Babylon?

-Why is God orchestrating events in favor of these men?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Daniel 1

Zechariah 7-14

2008-07-18T17:38:00.008-06:00

In the last entry, we discussed the reference to Jesus in chapter 6. The second section of Zechariah makes even more references. Let's discuss a few of these.

Chapter 9

Review vs 9,10

-These verses refer ultimately to the Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, (see Matt 21:5.)

Why would a King enter His royal city in this manner?

Chapter 10

Review vs 4. (See also Gen 49:8-11)

What does this prophesy mean?

-What is a cornerstone? Who is the Cornerstone that Zechariah is referring to?

Chapter 11

Review vs 12, 13 (See also Mathew 26:14,15)

30 pieces of silver would be the price of a slave among the Isrealites in ancient times

-This was also the amount paid to Judas for the betrayal of Jesus.

-What does this transaction say about the teachers of the law and their perception of Jesus?

Chapter 12

Review v 10. (See Psalms 16-19

-Do you think that one day people will mourn that Jesus was pierced for their transgressions? Do you?

Chapter 14

Review vs 3-9. (See Acts 1: 11, 12; If time is available, Revelations 19,20,21)

-V9 indicates the over-arching theme of the whole Bible

-Discuss the magnitude of these verses and the events noted in this section.

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Zechariah 7-14

Zechariah 1-6

2008-07-11T10:20:00.013-06:00

*** This entry is affected by a system error. Please forgive any editing issues.

Along the theme of the book of Haggai, Zechariah attempts to motivate the people of Judah to complete the rebuilding of the temple. He also reveals God's hope for spiritual renewal.

Chapter 1 begins with a call to return to the Lord.

1. Verse 3 says, "Return to me, declares the Lord Almighty, and I will return to you."
-Do you sometimes feel that your sin is so great that God would not want you to return to Him?
-Does this verse provide you a sense of comfort that God will respond in Love and Forgiveness to a repentant heart?

2. The angel of the Lord indicates that the nations around Judah feel secure despite how they oppress Judah.
-Why would this bother God?

Over the course of a night, Zechariah has a series of visions. One of these has a high priest standing in filthy garments- chapter 3. In this vision, Satan- the accuser, is making accusations against the priest.
-What kind of accusations would Satan have against this priest?
-What accusations would he have against you?

As the vision continues, these filthy garments are removed and the priest is given clean garments- symbolic of the removal of sin.
1. What can we gather from this vision in regard to sin in our own lives?
2. After review of this section, do you see any references to Jesus Christ?

Further discussion questions:
Describe the discouragement people would have felt in regard to the temple construction that came to a dramatic halt.
-Have you ever had plans that were dramatically changed?
-Why was this discouraging?

What are some things that you can take from the book of Zechariah that point to the grand will of God?
-Does it bring you comfort to know that God is orchestrating plans for your life beyond what you can see?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge
Zechariah 1-6

Haggai 1-2

2008-07-03T11:56:00.005-06:00

Background: Solomon's great temple has been destroyed. A decree was given that would allow the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. However, disobedience and inactivity by the Jews led to the halt of all construction.

A Call to Build the House of the Lord

1. God notes that His people live in splendor while His house remains a ruin.

-Do we sometimes choose to retain the best for ourselves and hold back from giving to God? (For example, in your tithing...)

-What does this say about our view of God and His Blessings?

2. Review vs 5-7

-God tells the people that their work will not yield great results, because He is not blessing them anymore. Why would God choose to not bless His chosen people?

The first chapter closes with a response by the remnant in Jerusalem. Hearing the message, they began to work on the house of God.

Chapter 2

The Promised Glory of the New House

God begins this chapter encouraging His children.

1. God reminds His people of the covenant that He made with them when they left Egypt.

-Why does God continue to be faithful to His promises when His children often are not?

-What does this say about the character of God?

2. Review vs 6- 10

-Why would the future judgement of the nations encourage the remnant in Jerusalem?

-Does it encourage you?

Blessings for a Defiled People

When the temple was originally made, God let the people of Jerusalem know that with obedience there would be blessings and with disobedience- there would be curses. He presents this warning again.

1. What is the message that we should take from this book?

2. Are you aware of the consequences of your sin and disobey God anyway?

3. What should God's response be to your disobedience?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Haggai 1-2

Zephaniah 1-3

2008-06-27T15:45:00.008-06:00

Zephaniah warns of the coming destruction of Judah due to its escalating level of sin. He also reveals God's pending Judgement of the surrounding nations.

Chapter 1

Review Genesis 6:7

1. How does the wording of Zephaniah 1: 1-4 sound similar to God's response to sin before the Great Flood?

2. Assuming that the story of the flood was presented to future generations, why has the level of sin grown to this level again?

3. Zephaniah discusses Judah's worship of Baal and other gods in verses 4-7

-As you read these verses, consider the gods that are sometimes erected in our own lives...

-Should the judgement against us be similar to that of Judah?

4. As the chapter continues, Zephaniah reveals God's Judgement against the nations.

1. After reviewing some of the verses at the end of chapter 1, what are some of your thoughts?

2. Is it easy to grow complacent when the "great day of the Lord" is at an uncertain time?

Chapter 2

1. Zephaniah advises the people of Judah at the beginning of chapter 2 that those who hear this information should seek the Lord and repent of their great sin.

-Is it likely that this was the response of those that heard this warning from Zephaniah?

2. Chapter 2 continues with a specific account against the different people groups that have fought against the people of God. He also indicates that the possessions of these nations will be transferred to Judah.

-Why would God show grace to His chosen people despite their level of sin?

Chapter 3

1. Review vs 3-5

-Why does God specifically point out the sin of the authorities that are in charge?

-Why does he compare the officials and rulers to vicious predators?

2. There is a series of events that are discussed in verses 9-20. The imagery shows the purification of the nations and rejoicing in the city by the restored remnant.

The remnant will be those who are meek and humble and trust in the name of the Lord, (see v 12.)

1. If you were one of the few people in Judah that lived in the manner noted above, what would be your response to the general theme of this book?

-Would Zephaniah's words spur you to evangelize and increase the number within the "remnant?"

2. God reminds His people in v 17 that He is "mighty to save" and that He takes great delight in His children.

-Discuss how these verses would have provided assurance for the people within the remnant.

-Does it bring you assurance?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Zephaniah 1-3

Habakkuk 1-3

2008-06-20T13:53:00.008-06:00

Habakkuk has witnessed sin in Judah for some time and approaches God with this complaint: Why does the evil in Judah go unpunished?

Chapter 1: Habakkuk's Complaint

1. As you read through some of the questions that Habakkuk raises in verses 1-5, what are some thoughts that come up in your own mind?

-Do you wonder how long God will allow evil to go unpunished?

-Do you wonder if God is hearing your prayers regarding injustice in the world?

2. In your opinion, why does God allow this wickedness to occur?

The Lord's Answer

God's response to Habakkuk indicates that He will send Babylon to punish Judah.

1. In verse 7, God notes that the Babylonians are "a law to themselves and promote their own honor."

-From first review, why would God choose a wicked nation to punish His chosen people?

-Does this seem fair? Does it matter if it is fair or not?

Habakkuk's Second Complaint

Habakkuk questions God's choice regarding raising up Babylon to punish Judah.

1. What is the justice in Judah being punished by an even more wicked nation?

2. If you lived a very sinful lifestyle, would punishment of this nature humble you?

Chapter 2: The Lord's Answer

1. God responds to Habakkuk's questions by noting that Babylon will one day be defeated.

-Does it bring you comfort to know that in God's Time, the wicked will be defeated?

-Is it hard to align our timeline to God's Timeline?

2. Why would God allow the wicked to rest in their sin before their destruction?

Chapter 3: Habakkuk's Prayer

Habakkuk learns to wait for God's Will to be done.

1. What can we learn from Habakkuk's faith through this dialogue with God?

2. Why would he rejoice despite the circumstances that he is witnessing?

3. Is it hard for us to trust in God for His Deliverance while facing the trials of our lives?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Habakkuk 1-3

Nahum 1-3

2008-06-13T09:05:00.011-06:00

The book begins as an oracle against the city of Nineveh. The city has plotted against God and will certainly receive His wrath.

The Lord's Anger Against Nineveh

1. What is the general theme of the first chapter of Nahum?

2. The Lord indicates to Nahum that He is jealous and avenging, but slow to anger.

-What has Nineveh done that has so greatly angered God?

-Why is He so zealous to protect what belongs to Him?

3. Review the control that God has over His Creation in verses 3-7

-What would you be thinking if you were the subject of His wrath?

Nineveh to Fall

The tone of the book continues to change. Nineveh prepares to defend itself against the wrath of God. This is futile, because God has decreed that the city would be destroyed.

1. What is Nineveh doing to defend itself?

-Why would the city feel that these precautions would be sufficient enough against God's wrath?

2. The imagery of this second chapter includes specific descriptions of the attack of the city.

-What images resound in your mind about its fall?

3. Review v13

-What would it feel like to have God against you?

-Have you ever been an enemy of God?

Woe to Nineveh

This final section of Nahum reviews the reasons behind Nineveh's fall.

1. Nineveh is seen as a "city of blood, full of lies, full of plunder, never without victims."

-How does a city get to this point?

-What if you lived in this city? What would be your response to the direction of the government?

-How would you feel if you knew that no one would show sympathy for your fall?

2. What if you lived outside of the city?

-What would be some of your thoughts regarding the choices of Nineveh?

-How would you view its subsequent destruction?

Additional discussion questions:

1. About 150 years earlier, the prophet Jonah came to Ninevah and there was a great revival. 150 years later, the city is full of sin again. What happened?

2. What should be our "take-home" message from the book of Nahum?

-Are there warnings from God that we ignore?

-Is His wrath worth testing?

3. Discuss how God's wrath will eventually fall on those that defiantly choose to live in sin.

-What has to be done for God's wrath to be turned away from your own life?

-Does it bring you comfort to know that you can seek refuge in Him?

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Nahum 1-3

12 Windows

2008-06-13T09:01:00.002-06:00

The Minor Prophets: Part 2

Join us this weekend as we begin the second part of the series, 12 Windows: The Minor Prophets.

Ancient voices. Powerful words. Timeless messages. We will hear from some of the prophets of the Old Testament. God has given us their voices- their messages- so that we could hear from Him. What did God record for us, over 2000 years ago, that He did not want us to miss?

Matthew 7: 24-29

2008-06-05T10:00:00.009-06:00

The Wise and Foolish Builders

1. Why would someone choose to not put Christ's words into practice?

-Is this a choice made slowly over time? Or, are people generally openly defiant about not submitting to Jesus?

2. Describe some examples of the storms that people face.

3. After reviewing verses 25 and 26- discuss the following:

-What do the houses look like on the outside? Does it matter how well the house itself is built?

-Does the foolish home owner think that the sand will be a strong foundation?

4. Do you know people in your life that are currently building their lives on sand?

-What does the life of someone that has built his or her house on sand look like?

-Have you been one of those people? Are you currently?

5. Why were the crowds amazed by what Jesus said?

-From the text, can you gather if any of these amazed people put Jesus' words into practice?

*****

Further discussion questions:

1. What are some lessons that you have taken from the Kingdom Manifesto?

2. Do you feel that you will put what Jesus says into practice or will you choose another foundation for your life?

3. What can help move us from being "listeners" of Christ's words to becoming someone that puts His words into practice?

Teacher: Jacob Varghese

Matthew 7:24-29

Matthew 7:13-23

2008-05-30T11:32:00.007-06:00

The Narrow and Wide Gates

1. What does the narrow gate look like?

-Is it advertised well in our society?

-Why is it that only a few find it? Can someone on this road expect persecution?

-If you found this gate, what should your response be to those that could still be looking for it?

2. What does the wide gate look like?

-Why is this gate marketed and promoted differently in this society?

-As people enter this gate, do they realize where the road leads?

-Can someone that enters this gate change his or her mind and get off the road at anytime?

***

A Tree and its Fruit

1. What does a false prophet look like?

-What is the message that they would be spreading?

-What would they gain by spreading this message?

2. Review vs 16-19

-What are examples of the "bad fruit" that you can find on a "bad tree?"

-What about the examples of the "good fruit" from a "good tree?"

-Do these verses apply in other contexts? For instance, can you use this method to determine if someone is a follower of Christ or not?

-In either case, what is your responsibility after reading this section of the text? Has God called us to be "fruit-inspectors?"

-In regard to these verses, how should we examine our own lives?

3. Review vs 21-23

-Why would someone call Jesus, "Lord," and not do the will of God?

-How can someone do the things noted in vs 22 and not be known by Christ? Without a personal relationship with Christ, what would their motivation be to do these things?

-What steps can you take to avoid Jesus' proclamation in vs 23?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 7: 13-23

Matthew 7: 7-12

2008-05-23T10:24:00.011-06:00

Ask, Seek, Knock

1. Review vs 7-11

After reading this passage, what are some of your thoughts?

-Is Christ saying that all you have to do is ask and what you desire will be given to you? Is this assessment consistent with Scripture?

-If God gave you everything that you desired, would that increase your faith or decrease it?

-Do you currently turn to God only when you need something? Is He your personal vending machine?

2. In v 11, Jesus compares God as a Father to an earthly father.

-Do you view God as a Father?

-What are some ways in which God compares to or contrasts your earthly father?

-How does your view of your earthly father affect how you approach God as a Father?

-What are some examples of the "good gifts" that God can give you? Could His "good gifts" be something that you wouldn't want- like a painful trial?

3. How is v 12 related to this section?

-Is it hard to treat people in the manner discussed in this verse?

-If most of the world is familiar with the Golden Rule, why aren't there more examples of it being practiced?

Teacher: Jeff Dodge

Matthew 7: 7-12

Matthew 7: 1-6

2008-05-16T09:56:00.010-06:00

Judging Others

1. In what ways do we judge others?

-What is the root of this behavior? How is the sin of pride related to this behavior?

-Are there areas in which you judge people more often, (their work ethic, their physical appearance, their lifestyle, etc.?)

-Have you ever felt the weight of others judging you?

2. Review vs 3-6

-Do we find ourselves magnifying the sin or flaw of others and minimizing or justifying our own shortcomings?

-Is it important to complete a realistic self-examination before approaching others in regard to their sin?

3. Review vs 6.

-How does this verse relate to the rest of this section?

-Who are the "dogs" and the "swine" that Christ is referring to?

-If we were to assume that the "dogs/swine" are those that reject Christ and His teachings, in what ways are we "throwing our pearls" to them or giving them what is sacred?

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Matthew 7: 1-6

Serving during the summer

2008-05-16T09:31:00.012-06:00

Connection Group Leaders:

If you haven't already, please chat with your group regarding serving the church or the local community this summer. If you need ideas or more information, please feel free to contact me!

Jacob Varghese

Regional Ministry Director

Matthew 6: 25-34

2008-05-07T15:21:00.005-06:00

Do Not Worry

Matthew 6: 19-25

2008-05-02T21:03:00.003-06:00

Treasures in Heaven

1. What are examples of treasures that people store up on earth?

-Do you find that you store up treasure, (i.e relationships, a job, money, etc.?)

-Describe the feeling that you would feel if one of these treasures was taken from you.

2. How are ways that we store up treasures in Heaven?

3. Review vs 21.

-In regard to question 1 above, where is your heart?

-How does this treasure affect your behavior?

4. Review vs 22-24.

-If your eyes are focused on earthly treasure, how does that affect your behavior?

-How does it affect your perception of Heaven's treasures?

5. Review vs 24.

-Can you love God and still be rich by the world's standards?

-If Jesus says that we can not serve both God and money, do we find ourselves trying anyway?

Teacher: Paul Sabino

Matthew 6: 19-25

Matthew 6: 5-19

2008-04-23T13:47:00.017-06:00

Prayer

Community Mental Health Forum

2008-04-23T13:32:00.003-06:00

Community Mental Health Forum

Story County Community Services is hosting a public forum and provider fair to increase awareness of mental health treatment.

This forum will provide information about services that are available in the community and the opportunity to ask questions of mental health service providers.

Date: Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Time: 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Location: Ames City Hall

Council Chambers

515 Clark Ave

Ames, IA

If you have any questions, please contact Story County Community Services at 515-382-7290

or Monty Woodward at 515-382-7288.

Habitat for Humanity Golf Tournament

2008-04-23T12:57:00.002-06:00

Second Annual Golf Tournament: Habitat for Humanity

The Story County Chapter of Habitat for Humanity of Central Iowa will be holding their 2nd Annual Golf Tournament on May 9th. The cost is $75 per person. This amount will include the green fee for the 4 man-best shot tournament, dinner and entry into a silent auction that will benefit Habitat projects.

* If you are not a golfer, you can still come to the dinner and silent auction for $10 per person.

Please contact Habitat for Humanity at the contact number or email below, as the deadline is quickly approaching!

Location: Cold Water Golf Links

Date: May 9, 2008

Time: 12-7 pm

Contact Adriana Harle

Habitat for Humanity

515-232-8815

email: info@hfhci.org or vista@hfhci.org

website: www.hfhci.org