In this chapter we are introduced to three timeless themes. First, God tests people with affliction to see what is in their hearts. He did it to Israel in the Wilderness; we should expect Him to test His people today. Second, the Lord reveals why He fed Israel with manna: that His people (then and
In Psalm 20, David writes of one facing affliction and the hope and protection available to this afflicted person. We consider the honest question: does God hear our prayers in times of trial? We also look at what it means to put our trust in "the name of the Lord" and the protection this brings.
Peter says we should not think it strange when we are tested. We explore the significance and range of this word in Scripture, also translated "to try" (or even "to tempt" when Satan is involved). While the Lord tests us for good, we must never put God to the test. In view of the various
Suffering as a Christian has been the overarching theme of this letter of Peter. Here Peter addresses the personal, internal suffering that comes from denying our own desires for sins of the flesh. Then he calls us to devote ourselves to four things: being watchful in prayer, having fervent love for one another, being hospitable,
Peter’s letter begins with a demolition of the modern so-called "prosperity gospel." He reminds us that our goal is heaven, not a comfortable life here on earth. We can rejoice in the face of suffering, which serves to refine our faith as gold is refined by fire. Peter’s challenges are especially compelling in view of
Moses and Israel's chosen men ascend Mount Sinai, where Moses will receive the stone tablets. The Lord calls Moses and Joshua to proceed further up, where they enter the midst of a great cloud. Moses remains on the mountain forty days, fasting throughout. We begin by considering the mysterious nature of God (the Father), whom
First 40 Days on Mount Sinai (with Moses Fasting) (Exodus 24:9-18) View Lesson
First 40 Days on Mount Sinai (with Moses Fasting) (Exodus 24:9-18) View Lesson
The crucifixion of Jesus is at the heart of the Gospel and provides us the supreme example of self-denial and love for others. In this lesson we look at eight Old Testament prophecies that provide remarkable details about the death of Jesus, hundreds of years before it happened. These passages should be mastered by every
Paul is able to write that he takes "pleasure" in his infirmities, needs, persecutions, and distresses. How can this be? In this third lesson on dealing with bitterness in our hearts, we focus on Paul’s example in the face of extreme suffering, and the unexpected ways God used Paul’s afflictions (and Christ-like spirit) to His
Let No Root of Bitterness Spring Up, Pt. 3 of 3 (Paul and Jesus) View Lesson
Let No Root of Bitterness Spring Up, Pt. 3 of 3 (Paul and Jesus) View Lesson
In John 15, Jesus promises that the world will hate His followers. In this lesson we look at what Jesus had to say about persecution, including why the world will hate His disciples. We also look at examples of martyrdom and accounts of Christian persecution in the early Church. May Jesus' teaching on persecution and