We explore how to apply the Bible to everyday life, with free Bible studies for individuals and small groups and a positive approach to issues of faith and justice. Read the Latest Blog Posts Why is race such a big deal? Read this series and explore. Explore this full set of Bible Studies for the Gospel of Matthew Based on the Word of God The Faith Explored website is for everyone who has an open heart: Catholics, Protestants, evangelicals, and Orthodox; people who are active in their church, have stepped away, or have never found a church home; people who are familiar with the Bible and people who are just starting out; seekers, doubters, agnostics, explorers, and the curious. Everyone is welcome here at Faith Explored. We explore what the Bible says and means, how it applies to our everyday lives, how God is calling us to care for each other and extend his love and justice to everyone, and how we can respond more fully to God's invitation to become like him in every part of our lives. Come join us as we explore! Faith Explored Exploring how to apply the Bible to our lives today Applied to Real Life Bible Study Materials Resources for Justice Resources for Growth Our Latest Posts We are continually developing new materials that apply God’s Word to our lives and our world. Here is a sample of our recent articles: Workers Have Been Devalued Since Long Before AI People wonder how AI will affect workers. Even without AI, we have failed to treat workers fairly. Corporations and governments already have been devaluing humans in the workplace for centuries. They are violating these principles, which are based in the Bible. Tom Faletti 2 hours ago Back to School with the Greatest Teacher of All It’s Back to School time for all of us, no matter how young or old we are. Everyone is invited to learn in the classroom of the greatest teacher the world has ever known: Jesus. How do we do that? His lesson plan is ready. We just need to show up. Tom Faletti 5 days ago God is Not Appeased by Our Sacrifices There is no sacrifice you can make that will appease God. Fortunately, unlike the Greek gods, that’s not what God wants. The Bible has a much more surprising view of sacrifice. Will you join in, unite with God, and be a member of his team? Tom Faletti Aug 19 Read More Articles Subscribe to Be Notifed of New Posts Bible Study Materials Our Bible Studies provide study materials that equip small groups and individuals to study the Bible confidently and apply it to their lives in practical ways, with thought-provoking questions, background commentary where needed, and challenging reflections. Explore Our Bible Study Materials Justice The Justice section of the website explores God’s repeated call for justice throughout the Old and New Testaments and how we can respond to that call by working for justice in our time. God is not willing to settle for only saving our individual lives; He also wants to transform our societies, businesses, governments, and cultures. This section explores how we can participate in that work. Respond to God's Call for Justice Christian Faith The life of a follower of Christ is an adventure. The Christian Faith section of our website addresses a variety of questions and challenges that arise as we try to live the Christian life. Each article focuses on one aspect of the faith or one component of Christian living, such as joy or forgiveness. The goal is to help us understand how we can put our faith into action in every area of our lives. Grow in the Christian Faith and Life God's Purposes God’s Purposes explores what God is trying to do in our world, why He doesn’t make life easy for us, and how each of us is called to join in God’s work to transform the world in our own unique ways. Consider God’s Purposes for Your Life Images at top of Bible, individual with Bible, and small group provided by Wix. All other images by Tom Faletti.

Bible Study resources for the Gospel of Luke, to help individuals and small groups explore how the Bible applies to life today: background, commentary, questions. Luke Luke 1:1-4 Prologue to Luke's Gospel: Why is he writing and for whom? Luke 24:13-35 Jesus walks with two discouraged disciples and opens the Scriptures to them, and then they recognize him in the breaking of the bread. How can we see Jesus in the Scriptures and the breaking of the bread? Luke - Bibliography Bibliography of major sources and additional sources used in this study of the Gospel of Luke. Image at top by wisconsinpictures, provided by Unsplash via Wix.

Bible-based teaching that explores how to apply God's Word to the issues around us, respect the human dignity of every person, and work for justice for all. Justice God demands that we work for justice Does God care what goes on in our societies, or does He care only about our individual souls? The Bible has a very clear answer. Justice is one of God’s major priorities, and He wants us to pursue justice in our societies. He wants to transform not only our personal lives but also our governments, businesses, societies, and cultures. Read Justice and the Bible to see a short summary of the many Bible passages where God calls us to work for justice. This section of Faith Explored is a place to explore what it means for Christians to do justice in our time. Justice Resources Justice and the Bible God wants Christians to work for justice. God Calls Us to Speak Out In the Bible, God tells us to speak out for those with no voice and defend the poor (Proverbs 31:8-9). Groups That Work for Justice We are not alone. We can work with groups that speak out for justice. The Bible and Catholic Social Teaching Examples of how the Bible supports Catholic social teaching. Jesus Rejects the Death Penalty In the story of “The woman caught in adultery,” Jesus rebuffs those who seek His consent for an execution and rejects capital punishment. Stations of the Cross on Overcoming Racism What do the final hours in the life of Jesus say to us about racism in America today? Possible Future Topics BASIC PRINCIPLES Common Good Subsidiarity SEVEN THEMES OF CST 1. HUMAN DIGNITY Life War Nonviolence 2. PARTICIPATION Family 3. RIGHTS Health Government Responsibilities Racial Justice 4. OPTION FOR THE POOR Poverty Immigration 5. WORK Economy Business Practices 6. SOLIDARITY Advocacy God's Downside-Up View 7. CARE FOR CREATION Climate Change Want to see more? If there is nothing posted on a topic listed above, it means I don't have anything ready for publication on that topic yet. If you would like to encourage a higher priority for a topic, or would like to see a topic explored further, send me a note using the contact form below explaining what you are interested in and why it should be a priority. If you would like to pay for the development of specific material, please feel free to explore that with me, but payment is not required. The main thing is to offer a convincing case that the topic you are interested in should be a priority as material is added to the website.

Bible Study resources for the Gospel of Matthew, to help individuals and small groups explore how the Bible applies to life today: background, commentary, questions. Faith Explored: The Gospel of Matthew Introduction to Matthew Matthew shows the universal relevance of Jesus – to all people of all nations. Jesus cared about all people and offered a gospel for all people, while demonstrating His authority over all nations. Matthew 1:1-17 Who is Jesus? – Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus. Matthew 1:18-25 Mary’s pregnancy, from Joseph’s perspective: What is God doing? Matthew 2:1-12 Wise men come to see the newborn king – and still do today! Matthew 2:13-23 Herod seeks to kill Jesus, which is why Jesus ends up as a refugee in Egypt, and then in Nazareth. Matthew 3:1-12 John the Baptist: Repentance is not comfortable but is part of our calling. Matthew 3:13-17 The baptism of Jesus, and how it relates to you. Matthew 4:1-11 The temptation of Jesus shows how to respond to our own temptations. Matthew 4:12-17 Jesus chooses a particular place – Galilee – to begin his ministry. Matthew 4:18-25 Jesus gathers disciples and followers. Matthew 5:1-5 Blessed are the poor, the grieving, the meek. Matthew 5:6-12 Blessed are those who are focused on what God cares about. Matthew 5:13-16 You provide the salt and light of Jesus to the world. Matthew 5:17-20 Jesus fulfills the Old Testament: the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 5:21-26 Murder, anger, insulting others – how are they related, and what can we do about them? Matthew 5:27-32 Adultery, lust, and divorce start in the heart. Matthew 5:33-37 Integrity means your words line up with your actions. Matthew 5:38-42 Jesus takes retaliation in a new direction. Matthew 5:43-48 Why does Jesus tell us to love our enemies? Matthew 6:1-18 Who needs to know about your almsgiving, prayer, and fasting? Matthew 6:9-15 How to pray: The Lord’s Prayer shows the way. Matthew 6:19-24 What is a healthy view of wealth? Matthew 6:25-34 Worry – how to deal with it. Matthew 7:1-6 You will be judged in the same way you judge others. Matthew 7:7-11 Pray with confidence that God will respond as your Father. Matthew 7:12-23 The Golden Rule is part of the fundamental choice Jesus is calling us to make. Matthew 7:24-29 Is your faith built on rock? Is the Sermon on the Mount a central part of your faith? Matthew 8:1-17 Jesus cares about our afflictions. Matthew 8:18-34 To follow Jesus, we need to make some choices. Matthew 9:1-17 Who are you willing to befriend? Matthew 9:18-34 Allow Jesus to heal you, open your eyes, loosen your tongue. Matthew 9:35-10:15 Compassion compels Jesus and us to proclaim the good news. Matthew 10:16-42 Make the choice to follow Christ and do not be afraid of the consequences. Matthew 11:1-19 What is the evidence that Jesus is the Messiah? Matthew 11:20-30 Will we accept the direction of the Lord or resist? Matthew 12:1-37 What matters the most? What do your words reveal? Matthew 12:38-50 Two reactions to Jesus: disingenuous skepticism and genuine commitment. Matthew 13:1-23 What kind of soil can I be, to allow the seed of God’s word to take root and be fruitful in my life? Matthew 13:24-53 God patiently waits for us to bear fruit and asks us to be patient with those around us. Matthew 13:54-14:21 Living parables: Incidents in Jesus’s ministry that tell a bigger story, including the feeding of the 5,000. Matthew 14:22-36 Get out of the boat: Where are you called to take a step of faith and not be afraid? Matthew 15:1-20 It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; it’s what comes out from your heart that defiles you Matthew 15:21-28 The healing love of God is for Gentiles, too. Matthew 15:29-39 Jesus’s compassion extends to all people; even foreigners. How can we be like Jesus? Matthew 16:1-12 What is God trying to do in our world today, and are we missing the signs of what is needed and what he is doing? Matthew 16:13-20 Who is Jesus? Who is Peter? Where do you fit in the Church that God is building? Matthew 16:21-28 Suffering is coming for Jesus, and he calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow him. Matthew 17:1-13 Do you struggle with the Christian teaching that Jesus Christ is both fully God and fully human? Three apostles had a visible experience of this truth. Matthew 17:14-27 A healing, a second warning of suffering to come, an interruption to pay a tax – just a normal day in the life of Jesus . . . and us? Matthew 18:1-9 Welcome a child, be as humble as a child, and don’t lead any “little ones” astray: the starting point for our relationships in the church. Matthew 18:10-20 Jesus doesn’t want to lose anyone – not those who have strayed, and not those who have wronged others. He offers a path that seeks reconciliation and broad agreement before disciplinary action. Matthew 18:21-35 How many times must I forgive someone who does something wrong to me over and over again? How is God a model for the answer? Matthew 19:1-12 Divorce: What does it mean for two to become one? Matthew 19:13-15 When you welcome children as God does, you never know the impact you might have. Matthew 19:16-22 The danger of riches: What kind of grip do they have on you? Matthew 19:23-26 Who can be saved? Your wealth won’t save you, but what will? Matthew 19:27-30 What will those who give up earthly goods for Jesus receive? Matthew 20:1-16 Jesus offers the same salvation to all – high or low, early or late – and asks us to adopt his attitude, which is that many who are last will be first. Can we embrace his approach? Matthew 20:17-28 When Jesus calls us to serve, he doesn’t just mean servant leadership; he means servant “helpership” that puts others’ needs first. Matthew 20:29-34 What does God want us to see? And once we see the real world as he sees it, how would he like us to respond? Matthew 21:1-11 Can you embrace a king who comes in peace? Matthew 21:12-17 Jesus wanted the Temple to be a house of prayer and a place of healing. Can our churches and our lives be that, too? Matthew 21:18-22 The cursing of the fig tree was a prophetic action, where Jesus stands against those who are "all leaf and no fruit." Is our metaphorical fig tree producing fruit or withering? Matthew 21:23-27 Responding to difficult questions and dealing with politics. Matthew 21:28-32 Can we say “Yes” to God, and then actually do the work he asks us to do? Matthew 21:33-46 What are you called to do in the work of God’s vineyard? Matthew 22:1-14 Are you wearing spiritual clothes fit for life in the kingdom of heaven? Matthew 22:15-22 What do we owe to governments and leaders? What do we owe to God? How can we honor God and obey the laws of our leaders? Matthew 22:23-33 If we try to make sense of God based on our human limitations, we will misunderstand the Scriptures and the power of God. How can the Scriptures guide us to a bigger picture? Matthew 22:34-40 What does it look like when we love God with our whole heart, soul, and mind, and extend the same love to others? Matthew 22:41-46 Jesus is greater than King David. He’s not your ordinary messiah, not your ordinary son of David. Who is Jesus in your life? Matthew 23:1-12 Are you serving others and helping to lift their burdens, or seeking attention and honor for yourself? Matthew 23:13-24 How can we recognize when we are focusing on little things that are of less importance and missing the more important matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness? Matthew 23:25-36 Clean and beautiful on the outside, dirty and ungodly on the inside. How can we avoid falling into the trap of focusing on our exterior image? Matthew 23:37-39 Jesus loves his people like a mother hen who desires to gather her young under her wings. How can we embrace this maternal love of God for us? Matthew 24:1-14 Jesus calls his followers to persevere in the face of persecution and links it to the preaching of the Gospel to all nations. How are you sharing the good news of Jesus? Matthew 24:15-31 Jesus’s followers will face suffering before he returns. What do we need to know, and what do we need to be doing? Matthew 24:32-44 Jesus tells us to be ready for his return. What are you doing to be ready for that day (whether it is the Second Coming or your death)? Matthew 24:45-25:13 Are you acting like you are ready for the Lord? What would it look like in your life to be the faithful servant, the well-prepared attendant? Matthew 25:14-30 What are the “talents” God has given to you, and are you using them fruitfully? Matthew 25:31-46 Each of us will be judged by our treatment of the hungry, the stranger, the sick, those in prison, etc. What are you doing to find Jesus in those places? Matthew 26:1-13 Two responses to Jesus: total opposition and extravagant devotion. How can you show how you feel about Jesus? Matthew 26:14-25 While the normal routines of life go on, Jesus knows that one of his disciples is in the process of betraying him. How do you keep going when bad things are happening? Matthew 26:26-35 How does Holy Communion help you to enter into the new covenant that Jesus offers us? Matthew 26:36-56 Prayer in difficult times: Can you learn from Jesus’s example and keep in mind the bigger picture of your life? Matthew 26:57-68 Jesus was found guilty because he told the truth. When should you speak the truth? And when should you speak out against injustices against others? Matthew 26:69-27:10 Peter and Judas illustrate 2 different ways to respond when you have committed a serious sin. How can you stay connected to a God who loves you even when you deny him? Matthew 27:11-26 Pilate tried to pretend that Jesus’s death was not his decision. How can we be honest about the role we play in what goes on in our lives? Matthew 27:27-44 Jesus endured the torture and the mocking for us. How can we embrace his sacrificial attitude? Matthew 27:45-56 Jesus was not abandoned by God, but it might have felt that way when he started praying Psalm 22. The psalm affirms him, and the centurion declared: “Truly this was the Son of God!” Matthew 27:57-66 Jesus is buried: Some people take action; others wait and watch. Matthew 28:1-10 The empty tomb means that Jesus is alive – and still alive today! Matthew 28:11-20 Everyone can participate: Sharing and living the good news. Matthew - Bibliography Bibliography of major sources and additional sources used in this study of the Gospel of Matthew. Image at top by Tim Wildsmith, provided by Unsplash via Wix.

Bible Study resources for Philemon, to help individuals and small groups explore how the Bible applies to life today: background, commentary, and questions. Philemon Introduction Paul sends Onesimus to Philemon with a letter. Philemon - Bibliography Bibliography of major sources and additional sources used in this study of Paul’s Letter to Philemon. Philemon 1-7 The person Paul is writing to, Philemon, is an example of the kind of encouraging partner everyone might like to have, and Paul is an example of giving thanks and praise. How can we be like them? Philemon 8-25 How can we approach someone with a difficult a request in a way that might keep our relationship with them strong? Philemon: Broader Questions About Slavery The apostle Paul undermined the Roman system of slavery by seeking to transform the relationship between masters and slaves. Could he have done more? Could we be doing more to challenge the injustices of our time? Image at top by Luis Georg Müller, provided by Unsplash via Wix.

Bible Study resources for the Gospel of Mark, to help individuals and small groups explore how the Bible applies to life today: background, commentary, questions. Mark Introduction to Mark Mark presents Jesus as the Messiah (the Christ) and the Son of God. Mark 1:1-8 John the Baptist comes to prepare the way for one greater than him. Mark 1:9-16 Jesus is baptized, subjected to temptation, and starts preaching. Image at top: First lines of Mark 16, Codex Sinaiticus. Late 2nd century or early 3rd century. Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:P.Oxy_LXXXIII_5345.png .

What are God’s purposes for making the world the way it is? Why does he allow bad things to happen? What is God trying to do? And what is our role? God's Purposes What is God’s purpose for making the world the way he did? Why does God allow bad things to happen? What in the world is God trying to do, and what is our role? These questions trouble people. Agnostics argue that we can’t find answers to these questions. Atheists argue that a good God wouldn’t allow bad things to happen, so there can’t really be a God. Some believers argue that God is so far beyond us that we can’t understand his ways. Some Christians even think we shouldn’t try to answer these questions – that it’s not our place to ask what God is trying to do. The Bible encourages us to use our minds as well as our spirits as we seek the truth. Jesus told us he would send us the Spirit of truth to guide us to the truth (John 16:13-15). Jesus also told us to love God with “all your mind” as well as all your heart and soul (Matt. 22:37; Mark 12:30; Luke 10:27). After the resurrection, Jesus “opened their minds” to understand the Scriptures (Luke 24:45). Paul urges us to have the mind of Christ (Phil. 2:5; 1 Cor. 2:16). Paul also urges us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Rom. 12:2). God has given us minds to explore his purposes, which he has revealed to us clearly enough that we don’t need to be afraid of tough questions. He has shown us the way to understand his purposes. The evidence is in his Word, his work in the world, and the insights he has given to his people. We must earnestly use the minds God has given us. Please join me in a deep dive into: God’s Purposes: What in the World is God Doing? This “book” is a work in progress. Use the links below to read sections of the book as they are written. Members can also use the Contact form below to ask a question or provide feedback as the book is developed and revised. Section 1: Introduction You Have a Purpose Actually, you have many purposes! You Can Choose You have free will. To Have the Mind of Christ That's one of our goals. Where is God? - Part 1 Outside the timeline. Where is God? - Part 2 Active in the timeline. Does God Care? If God doesn't care about us, we are in a pretty precarious position. Is God More Powerful Than Any Other Force? If God isn't powerful, we can't count on him for much. Section 2: Suffering If God is All-Good and All-Powerful, Why Does He Allow Suffering? This is a perennial question, and for good reason. If God Could Stop Suffering, Why Wouldn't He? Are there any reasons why God would not make the prevention of suffering his highest priority? God is Like a High School Coach Does a high school coach prevent all suffering their players might endure? Why not, and what might that tell us about God? God is Like the Most Loving Mother Does a loving mother prevent all suffering her children might endure? Why not, and what might that tell us about God? The image at the top and the image above of the hands reaching out are both provided by Wix.

Bible-based teaching that explores the Christian faith and how to live everyday life with gratitude, joy, faith, truth, kindness, and respect. Christian Faith Faith and the Christian Life What do Christians believe, and what does the Christian life look like? These articles explore important questions about who God is and how we can live the transformed life he offers us more fully. God Loves All People and Never Wills Evil Even Though He Allows It People sometimes speak as though God only loves those who love him and wills the evil that happens in our lives. These are misunderstandings of the nature of God. God loves everyone and never causes evil, even though he allows evil in his pursuit of a greater good. God Did Not Abandon Jesus on the Cross The idea that God abandoned or withdrew from Jesus, or hid his face from Jesus, contradicts the Bible and Christian doctrine about the Trinity. God was there to the end and will never abandon humans. God Takes a Downside-Up View of the World Throughout the Bible, God views what is going on from the perspective of the lowly, the poor, and the outcast. Faith Versus Works: What Does the Gospel of Matthew Say Matthew does not support the idea that a sinner’s prayer is a simple ticket to heaven. In his Gospel, Jesus calls us to much more than that. Look for the Perspective that Allows You to See Joy Your attitude determines what is a “win.” Reconciliation Can Start with a Gesture What is the small gesture or action you could take? When Did Christians First Recognize the Divinity of Jesus? The earliest Christian documents – Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians – show an early understanding that Jesus is God, and the Gospels say it explicitly. Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Discipleship, Responsibility, Transformation Many seek to use him for their own cause, but few want to embrace his total commitment to Christ. God Reveals Himself in Scripture and in the Natural World, through Faith and Science God teaches us through faith and science. The Rapture? It’s Not a Pre-Millennial Escape from Tribulation Pre-tribulation theories contradict Jesus and Paul. What does the Bible actually say? Let's put our faith into action! The life of a follower of Christ is an adventure. We each have a unique mind, body, and spirit , character, abilities, and circumstances . Jesus embraces each of us in the fullness of who we are. He also embraces us collectively as the Body of Christ. Through the working of the Holy Spirit in us, God wants to help each of us, individually and together – every day, all the time – to become more fully like Jesus and to participate in His work to transform the world. Where do you need to grow? In what ways can you take a step closer to God? Possible Future Topics Want to see more? If there is nothing posted on a topic listed above, it means I don't have anything ready for publication on that topic yet. If you would like to encourage a higher priority for a topic, or would like to see a topic explored further, send me a note using the contact form below explaining what you are interested in and why it should be a priority. If you would like to pay for the development of specific material, please feel free to explore that with me, but payment is not required. The main thing is to offer a convincing case that the topic you are interested in should be a priority as material is added to the website. Image at top by Erika Giraud, provided by Unsplash via Wix.

Special materials from Faith Explored to help you learn more about the Bible and apply it in your life, including Bible quizzes and quotes. Special Materials Easter Quiz: The Resurrection of Jesus How much do you know about the resurrection of Jesus? What does the Bible say? Take this 5-question quiz and see what you know. Quiz on Faith, Hope, and Love You’ve probably heard the words “faith, hope, and love” together many times. Take this 6-question quiz to see how much you know about them. Nagasaki - A History of Christian Faithfulness in Adversity For these Christians, neither persecution nor suppression, not even an atomic bomb, has kept them from staying faithful to Christ. Quotes Quotes worth thinking about. I Wince When I Hear People Say . . . Christians sometimes say things that they think are just standard platitudes but that actually raise theological concerns. People should be careful about making these claims, because they may not accurately reflect the teachings of Jesus or the character of God. Tags used for Blog Posts 1 Corinthians (8) 8 posts 1 John (2) 2 posts 1 Peter (5) 5 posts 1 Samuel (1) 1 post 1 Thessalonians (13) 13 posts 1 Timothy (3) 3 posts 2 Corinthians (1) 1 post 2 Peter (2) 2 posts 2 Samuel (1) 1 post 2 Thessalonians (3) 3 posts 2 Timothy (1) 1 post Action (29) 29 posts Acts (4) 4 posts Advocacy (13) 13 posts Anger (6) 6 posts Anxiety (1) 1 post Bible (66) 66 posts Bible Study (31) 31 posts Catholic (8) 8 posts Christian Faith (26) 26 posts Christian Living (57) 57 posts Christmas (7) 7 posts Church (10) 10 posts Colossians (7) 7 posts Death penalty (1) 1 post Deuteronomy (2) 2 posts Easter (4) 4 posts Ephesians (11) 11 posts Everyday Life (39) 39 posts Exodus (4) 4 posts Ezekiel (1) 1 post Family (2) 2 posts Forgiveness (5) 5 posts Galatians (9) 9 posts Genesis (6) 6 posts Gentleness (5) 5 posts God (27) 27 posts Gratitude (5) 5 posts Hebrews (4) 4 posts Hope (5) 5 posts Human Dignity (17) 17 posts Hunger (2) 2 posts Immigration (3) 3 posts Isaiah (5) 5 posts Issues (21) 21 posts James (8) 8 posts Jeremiah (2) 2 posts Jesus's Death (2) 2 posts John (23) 23 posts Justice (23) 23 posts Leviticus (3) 3 posts Love (11) 11 posts Luke (28) 28 posts Malachi (1) 1 post Marginalized (10) 10 posts Mark (10) 10 posts Matthew (40) 40 posts Mercy (4) 4 posts Micah (2) 2 posts Nonviolence (3) 3 posts Peace (3) 3 posts Philemon (1) 1 post Philippians (10) 10 posts Politics (12) 12 posts Poverty (5) 5 posts Prayer (8) 8 posts Proverbs (3) 3 posts Psalms (18) 18 posts Purpose (12) 12 posts Racial Justice (9) 9 posts Respect (14) 14 posts Rights (5) 5 posts Romans (14) 14 posts Science (6) 6 posts Sin (5) 5 posts Social Media (3) 3 posts Solidarity (9) 9 posts Temptation (4) 4 posts Thanksgiving (6) 6 posts Titus (1) 1 post Trust (6) 6 posts Truth (23) 23 posts Words (10) 10 posts Image at top by Sabbir Ahmed, provided by Unsplash via Wix.

Bible Study resources for 1 Thessalonians, to help individuals and small groups explore how the Bible applies to life today: background, commentary, and questions. 1 Thessalonians Introduction to 1 Thessalonians Paul brought the gospel of Christ to the people of Thessalonica despite opposition. 1 Thessalonians - Bibliography Bibliography of major sources and additional sources used in this study of Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians (1 Thess.). 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 Paul is writing not just to individuals, but to a church that is standing together and living the Christian life together in faith, hope, and love. 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16 Paul’s concern for the Thessalonians is like the love of a mother or father for their children. 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13 Paul takes the long view, seeing present events in light of eternity, and provides early evidence of the doctrine of the Trinity. 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 Paul’s basic rules for Christian living: sexual purity, love for others, and an orderly lifestyle. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11 The return of Christ and how to be ready. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 Living the Christian life in the church. Image at top by Markos Mant, provided by Unsplash via Wix.

Bible Study resources for the Gospel of John, to help individuals and small groups explore how the Bible applies to life today: background, commentary, questions. John Additional passages of the Gospel of John will be added approximately once a week, after I test-drive them with my Bible Study group and refine them. John 1:1-18 In the beginning, the Word was with God and was God, yet he chose to come and live among us. His life is the light that enlightens us, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:10-18 (Continuation of John 1:1-18) When John says the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, he is talking about Jesus, the only Son of the Father. Jesus invites us to be sons and daughters of God also. Introduction to John The Gospel of John shows us Jesus Christ, who is both God and man and Son of the Father. It provides spiritual insights that go beyond what the other Gospels have, so that we can believe and have life. John 1:19-34 The religious authorities want to know who John the Baptist is. John is more interested in identifying who Jesus is. That's the central question for us, too. John 1:35-51 As Jesus gathers disciples, they try to decide who he is. He invites them to “Come and see.” Jesus says that to us, too. What is he inviting you to see right now? John 2:1-12 At the wedding feast at Cana, Jesus turns water into wine. It is far more than a miracle; it is a sign that God is present, calling us to “Do whatever he tells you.” John 2:13-25 Jesus cleanses the Temple, removing the sacrificial lambs he will one day take the place of. Where do we need his cleansing in the “temple” of our own life? John 3:1-15 Jesus tells us we need to be born again/from above in order to enter his kingdom. What does this mean, and what might our life look like if we are born from above? John 3:16-21 God loves us with an incomprehensibly immense love. But he doesn’t force us to accept it. People can choose to live in the darkness without him. John 3:22-36 John the Baptist sees from God’s perspective and provides a role model for avoiding jealousy. How can we allow Jesus to increase in our lives? John 4:1-42 Jesus helps the Samaritan woman sort out some religious questions and come to faith in him. How do we move from know about God to having faith in him? John 4:27-42 (Continuation of John 4:1-42) The fields are ripe for harvest. What can we learn from the Samaritan woman and Jesus about how to tell others about Jesus? John 4:43-54 Jesus’s word was enough for the royal official. How much faith do you place in Jesus’s word? John 5:1-9 Jesus told the paralytic man to “Arise, take up your mat, and walk.” Where is Jesus calling you to take a step of faith right now? John 5:8-18 Jesus gets in trouble for healing a man on the Sabbath. No one seems to care that God has done a marvelous deed. In what ways do we miss what God is doing by being too focused on rules and protocol? John 5:19-47 Jesus provides evidence that he comes from the Father and challenges the religious leaders to search the Scriptures to find him. How eagerly do we search the Scriptures and accept what he says? John 6:1-15 Jesus feeds a multitude by multiplying loaves of bread. The people miss the point. How are we vulnerable to missing the point of what God is trying to do? John 6:16-21 Jesus spends time alone, leaving the disciples to get across the lake without him. When he walks on the water and joins them, they reach their destination. How do we handle the times when we don’t feel his presence? John 6:22-33 The work of God is that we believe in Jesus. How can we treat believing as an action that brings us into relationship with the person Jesus? John 6:34-47 When Jesus says that he is the Bread of Life, some people grumble. Jesus calls us to believe him and have eternal life. How might grumbling undermine our faith? John 6:48-59 Jesus tells us to eat his flesh and drink his blood. How does your celebration of the Lord’s Supper/Eucharist/Holy Communion reflect this teaching? John 6:60-71 Some disciples leave Jesus. Peter says, “To whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” How is your life built on that kind of commitment to Jesus? John 7:1-13 Jesus had a clear awareness of his overall mission and when was the right moment for specific actions, and he did not let any temptations get in the way. How can you cultivate your sense of God’s timing and avoid temptations that might keep you from your mission? John 7:14-53 Jesus offers rivers of living water, referring to the Holy Spirit. Some believe in him, some have questions, and some reject him. How can you let the Holy Spirit flow more fully through you? John 8:1-11 Some men asked Jesus if would support the execution of a woman caught in adultery. Jesus’s response models mercy and does not support executing people. Can we embrace his approach? John 8:12-30 Jesus is the light of the world who gives us the light of life so that we do not have to walk in darkness. To know him is to know the Father. How can we embrace Jesus as the light of our lives and keep knowing him better? John 8:31-59 Jesus tells us to abide in his word and know the truth, which will set us free. He tells the religious leaders who relied on the fact that they were children of Abraham: “Before Abraham was, I AM.” How can we abide in him, know the truth, and allow him to set us free? John 9:1-41 Jesus illustrates that he is the light of the world as he heals a blind man and addresses the spiritual blindness of those who reject his work. How can we embrace Jesus’s light? John 10:1-21 Jesus is the Good Shepherd who provides for his sheep and lays down his life for his sheep. How does Jesus act as a good shepherd in your life? John 10:22-42 Jesus says, “My sheep follow me.” We are his sheep. How do we follow him? Jesus says, “I and the Father are one.” Why is that important? John 11:1-44 Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. How does he want to give new life to you, and how can you receive it? John 11:45-57 The chief priests decide that the only way to save their nation is to kill Jesus. It is easy to decide to use sinful means to achieve what we think are good ends. How can we avoid that trap? John 12:1-11 Mary anoints the feet of Jesus, while the chief priests seek to kill Jesus and Lazarus. How can we show our devotion to Jesus? And what is Jesus saying about the poor being always with us? John 12:12-19 Jesus does not choose the trappings of a king; he signals that he cares for all the people. How can we follow his humble example and his love for the whole world? John 12:20-26 Jesus uses the image of a grain of wheat to show us that we must die in order to bear fruit. How can we die to ourselves, and what kind of fruit are we called to produce when we do so? John 12:27-36 Jesus describes his death as both a judgment on the world and something that will draw all people to himself. Why is his crucifixion such a central part of what he is doing in the world? John 12:36-50 We can walk in the light of Jesus, or we can walk in the darkness that leads to a hard heart. What can you do to stay in the light and keep your heart soft and open to Jesus? John 13:1-20 Jesus asks us to take a towel and wash each other’s feet. He modeled it first and then told us to do the same. Where is the towel that is waiting for you? John 13:21-38 Betrayal and an impending denial surround Jesus’s command to love one another. Can we love even when it is hard, as Jesus did? John 14:1-14 Jesus is the way to the Father. When we see him, we see the Father because he and the Father are one. He empowers us to do great things so that God will be glorified. How can you be like Jesus? John 14:15-24 Jesus links 3 things that we sometimes treat as separate: loving Jesus, keeping his commandments, and having the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. How can we welcome his presence within us to help us love him more and keep his commandments more readily? John 14:25-31 Jesus gives us a peace the world cannot give, a peace that quiets our troubled hearts and overcomes our fears. Nothing has power over him. How can you rest in his peace? John 15:1-17 Jesus speaks almost simultaneously about abiding in him and loving one another – the interior life and the exterior life. How are they related? How can you both abide him and bear his fruit in how you love others? John 17:1-19 Jesus prays for the disciples, asking the Father to consecrate them as he sends them out into the world. We, too, are called to be set apart or consecrated for the work he has for us. How well do we recognize and respond to our calling? John 20:1-18 The disciples don’t understand the Resurrection at first. Why is it so central to the Christian faith? John 20:19-31 Jesus appears to the disciples, imparts the Holy Spirit to them, commissions them, and gives special attention to Thomas’s need to see him. What do you need to hear from the risen Lord? John - Bibliography Bibliography of major sources and additional sources used in this study of the Gospel of John. Image at top by Travis Emmett, provided by Unsplash via Wix.

Bible Study material to help individuals and small groups explore what the Bible says about Mary, the mother of Jesus, with background, commentary, and questions. Mary, the Mother of Jesus: What does the Bible tell us about Mary? Session 1: What Mary was, we are called to be A young woman living in obscurity receives a visit from an angel of God and says “Yes” to God’s plan. How can we be like her? [Luke 1:5-25; 1:26-38; 1:39-45; 1:46-56] Session 2: Jesus’s birth causes uncertainty as well as joy In the days surrounding Jesus’s birth, uncertainty is a fact of life for his mother Mary. She responds by pondering and treasuring everything that happens. How can we embrace her trusting attitude? [Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 2:1-7; 2:8-20; 2:21; Luke 2:22-24] Session 3: When life gets complicated Mary and Joseph follow God’s guidance one step at a time, not knowing what each new step will be but trusting that he will show them what to do. Can we, too, trust God to guide us one step at a time? [Luke 2:25-40; Matthew 2:1-12; 2:13-18; 2:19-23] Session 4: "Do whatever he tells you." Mary watches Jesus grow up and begin his ministry. After she brings a concern to him, she tells others, “Do whatever he tells you.” Those are wise words for us. What would he tell you about your concerns do? [Luke 2:40-52; Matthew 3:13; 4:1; 4:12-13; 4:18-22; John 2:1-12] Session 5: Jesus’s family The various denominations within Christianity don’t agree on whether Mary had other children besides Jesus, but they do agree with his statement that those who do his will are his brothers and sisters. How can we respond? [Matthew 13:54-58; Mark 6:1-6; Matthew 12:46-50; Mark 3:31-35; Luke 8:19-21] Session 6: At the foot of the cross and in the Upper Room Mary stands by Jesus at the cross and is with the Christian community at Pentecost. How can we follow her example of being faithful in difficult times and remaining present with the church? [John 6:41-44; Luke 11:27-28; John 19:16-20, 23-27; Acts 1:13-14; 2:1-4; Galatians 4:4-7] Session 7: Other possible references to Mary in the Bible Some people see Mary in a variety of images and prophecies in the Bible where she is not specifically named. What do these passages tell us about God and how we can respond to him? [Revelation 12:1-6; 12:13-18; Isaiah 7:10-16; Psalm 22:9-10; Jeremiah 31:22; Micah 5:1-4] Mary - Bibliography Bibliography of major sources and additional sources used in this study of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Image at top: Lambert Lombard (1506-1566), artist; Ferdinand Piloty (1785-1844), engraver. “Die Kreuzabnahme (The deposition from the cross).” Print. Cropped. The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Art & Architecture Collection, The New York Public Library. The New York Public Library Digital Collections, 1837-1842, https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47e3-3e73-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99. https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47e3-3e73-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99.