Craig
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Q4. Mary's Response to the Angel
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 1. Mary, The Virgin Mother (Luke 1:26-45)
Q4. (Luke 1:38) What is the essence of Mary's positive response to the angel? What can we learn from her response for our own lives? In what sense was Mary's response an "informed consent"? When we respond to God, what do we consent to? Mary's response was, I am the Lord's Servant...May it be to me as you have said." As Christians, we should follow Mary's example in responding positively when God's calls. Not running away from God or ignoring His call to action, purpose, or mission in our lives. Mary's response was an informed consent due to the fact that Gabriel told her the how, what, when, where, and why of what God's plan for her and Jesus Christ, her son, was going to be. When I gave my life to the Lord, I committed my life to follow Jesus Christ and made myself available to God for His purposes. -
Q3. The Virgin Conception
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 1. Mary, The Virgin Mother (Luke 1:26-45)
Q3. (Luke 1:35) What does the virgin conception teach us about Jesus' nature? How central is the doctrine of the virgin conception to the Christian message? The virgin conception was the product of a non-sexual union between God Almighty and Mary -- divine and human -- via the Holy Spirit. As a result Jesus was both divine and human. The doctrine of the virgin conception to the Christian message is central because it gones back to Genesis 3:15 where God told the serpent that out of the seed of Woman would come one that would crush satan's head. Isaiah prophesied the Christ would be born of a virgin. The virgin conception is the fulfillment of Biblical prophesy. -
Q2. Mary's Question to the Angel
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 1. Mary, The Virgin Mother (Luke 1:26-45)
Q2. (Luke 1:34) In what way does Mary's "How?" question (1:34) to the angel's declaration differ from Zechariah's "How?" question (1:18)? Why was Mary rewarded and Zechariah disciplined? Zechariah outright did not believe the Angel whereas Mary believed and only wanted to know how she would become pregnant because she was a virgin. Mary was rewarded because of her faith and obedience whereas Zechariah was disciplined for unbelief. -
Q1. The Angel's Announcement
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 1. Mary, The Virgin Mother (Luke 1:26-45)
Q1. (Luke 1:31-34) What did the angel's announcement say about who Mary's Child was and who he was to become? Gabriel stated the following about Mary's child: His name would be Jesus and He would be great. He will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give Him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever and of his kingdom there will be no end. -
Q4. Psalm 22. Comparisons
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 10. Psalms: Looking Forward to the Messianic King
Q4. (Psalm 22) What similarities do you see between the words of Psalm 22 and the events of Jesus' crucifixion? Do you think Jesus understood Psalm 22 as referring to himself? Why do you think the Spirit inspired David to pen these words? Similarities between the words of Psalm 22 and the events of Jesus' crucifixion taken from Matthew 27 include: - Jesus cryed out from the cross: "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" - Jesus was scorned and despised by the people as they chose Barabbas over Him to be pardoned from crucifixation. The soldiers mocked and insulted Him until His death upon the cross. Jewish religious leadership mocked Him. - While Jesus was hanging on the cross, those who passed by Him hurled insults at Him, shaking their heads in Matt. 27: 40 said: "... You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!" - The chief priests, teachers of the law, the elders said in verse 27:43: "He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him ..." - The robbers who were crucified with Him also heaped insults on him. I think Jesus understood that Psalm 22 was speaking of Him. I think that the Holy Spirit inspired David to pen these words so that Holy Men of God who searched God's Word would find them when the appointed time of the Messiah came and what was prophesied took place, they would know it was of God and that Jesus Christ was the Messiah. The words of David were to a sign for that generation of Holy Men to understand and be a revelation as to what God was doing and who Jesus Christ was. -
Q3. Psalm 22
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 10. Psalms: Looking Forward to the Messianic King
Q3. (Psalm 22:1) Why do you think Jesus spoke the words of Psalm 22:1? What was he seeking to express? What was he feeling? How did God answer his plea? I think Jesus spoke of the words of Psalm 22:1 because it was what He felt bearing the sins of the world and receiving the full measure of the wrath of God in punishing sin. Thus, Jesus' words fulfilled the words of prophecy in Psalm 22. He was expressing a loniness He had never experienced before. God answered His prayer by raising Him from the dead on the third day and placing Him at the right of His throne. By elevating the name of Jesus above all names in creation and throughout the universe. He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The perfect High Priest. -
Q2. Psalm 110
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 10. Psalms: Looking Forward to the Messianic King
Q2. (Psalm 110) Why do you think that Jesus asked the Pharisees about verse 1, "If then David calls him 'Lord,' how can he be his son?" What point was Jesus making? How does Jesus combine the roles of Warrior-King and Priest in his ministry to us and to this world? How do you reconcile the violence suggested in verses 5-6 with Jesus as "Prince of Peace"? I think Jesus was creating a training moment in which to have the Pharisees rethink their thoughts and beliefs on who ultimately the Christ was. The point Jesus was making is that the Christ is not the son of David, but the Son of God Almighty -- Yahew. As Priest, Jesus sits at the right hand of God on the throne mediating for the saints. That is, Jesus as High Priest, is mediating between the saints and God for the forgiveness of sins and other Priestly duties. As a Warrior-King, Jesus will destroy satan, his armies, and all those rulers who have stood against God. He will judge the nations. Jesus is the Prince of Peace in that He brings peace to those who wake up and submit their wills to, and have aligned themselves with God Almighty. Jesus brings peace in all forms to those who love Him and practice His way. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life ..." Peace reins in the hearts of men and women who love the Lord and apply His principles. The bottomline is that there is spiritual warfare going on in and around this world. Justice requires judgment. Jesus has been appointed Judge. God has given humanity an opportunity to have their relationships restored with Him in fellowship and to have sins forgiven. There is an accountiability for free will and choice. Everyone is judged fairly based upon our decisions in this life. -
Q1. Psalm 2
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 10. Psalms: Looking Forward to the Messianic King
Q1. (Psalm 2) What does Psalm 2 teach us about Yahweh's "anointed" king? Why do you think the apostles saw this passage as referring to Jesus the Messiah? What does the passage teach about the importance of submission to Jesus the Christ before it is too late? Yahweh's "anointed king" will be conspired against by kings and rulers of the earth. Yahew has installed his "King" on Zion, his holy hill. The "anointed" king is His son and Yahweh His father. He make the nations His son's inheritance. The ends of the earth will be His possession. He will rule with an iron scepter. "... Blessed are all who take refuge in Him." The apostles saw this passage as referring to Jesus the Messiah because it went beyond the scope of David or any other King at that time. The scope being relationship between Father and Son; Rulers of the World brought together against the Anointed One; and the extend to which His Kingship would rein. Verses 11 and 12 read: "Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry and you be destroyed in your way, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him." -
Q2. (Psalm 145) Which aspects of God's character mentioned in Psalm 145 stand out to you in particular? Why is it important for "every creature," every human being, to praise him? What are you doing to help that happen? Verse 18: "The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on Him in truth." This verse is reassuring to me in that it reveals that God is close at hand and He responds to those who seek a relationship with Him in truth and sincerely. It is important for creatures and human beings to praise Him because He is God. By praising Him we humble ourselves and enthrone Him in our lives. I set aside time to praise and worship God in my private life and lead corporate worship and praise as Pastor of my church and as head of my family.
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Q1. (Psalm 103) Which one or two aspects of God's character mentioned in this Psalm stand out to you? Why do you think the Exodus was so foundational in Israel's understanding of God? According to Psalm 103:10-12, what are the limits to God's forgiveness? All of the aspects of God's character stand out in this Psalms. However, verse 10 ("he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities."), means a lot to me. The fact that God loves us so much and extends so much mercy and grace to us is awesome, amazing, and increditable. The fact that God does not treat us as our sins deserve is amazing. This wonder and grace causes within me a desire to show love, mercy, and grace to others. I think God expects nothing less. I think the Exodus was so foundational in Israel's understanding of God was because God revealed Himself to them. God showed to them what He is all about, how to have fellowship with Him, and what He can do in every way. God provided special revelation to the Israelites to establish a relationship with them and that they would know that He is the only true God. According to verses 10-12, there are no limitations to God's forgiveness to those that fear Him.
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Q1. (Psalm 103) Which one or two aspects of God's character mentioned in this Psalm stand out to you? Why do you think the Exodus was so foundational in Israel's understanding of God? According to Psalm 103:10-12, what are the limits to God's forgiveness? All of the aspects of God's character stand out in this Psalms. However, verse 10 ("he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities."), means a lot to me. The fact that God loves us so much and extends so much mercy and grace to us is awesome, amazing, and increditable. The fact that God does not treat us as our sins deserve is amazing. This wonder and grace causes within me a desire to show love, mercy, and grace to others. I think God expects nothing less. I think the Exodus was so foundational in Israel's understanding of God was because God revealed Himself to them. God showed to them what He is all about, how to have fellowship with Him, and what He can do in every way. God provided special revelation to the Israelites to establish a relationship with them and that they would know that He is the only true God. According to verses 10-12, there are no limitations to God's forgiveness to those that fear Him.
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Q4. Psalm 24
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 8. Psalms: Exulting in the God of Our Salvation
Q4. (Psalm 24) How do verses 1-2 establish the Lord's right as King? What do verses 3-6 tell us about the requirements of the King? What do verses 7-10 tell us about the glory of the King? How does this psalm speak to you in your situation? Verses 1&2 establish the Lord's right as King in that the Lord founded/created the earth, everything in it, and everything that lives in this world. The Lord God Almighty is King of the Universe. Verses 3-6 tell us that in order to stand in the presense of, and have a relationship with the Lord, one must have clean hands; a pure heart; not worship idols; or swear by what is false -- morally pure. Those that honor God will receive His blessings, vindication, and salvation. Verses 7-10 tells us that the Lord is the King of glory; is strong and mighty; mighty in battle; and that He is the Lord of Hosts. As a person who recognizes the Lord God Almight as Savior, Creator, and Father, I gladly give Him my life, my praise and my worship. He is God Almighty and is deserving of my praise, honor and love. -
Q3. Psalm 126
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 8. Psalms: Exulting in the God of Our Salvation
Q3. (Psalm 126). In this psalm, the nation is going through some kind of crisis. How does memory of God's deliverance in verses 1-3 prepare them for the prayer of verse 4? How do you understand the two metaphors of deliverance: (1) a wadi or dry gully and (2) sowing and reaping? How do these metaphors help you in your situation? The nation knows that the Lord will answer their prayer of restoration from past experience and based on the promises God made to them. Thus, the preparation for the prayer in verse 4. A wadi is dry until the rains come and the wadi fills rapidly and overflows onto the surrounding desert. Almost overnight the parched desert will be covered with a carpet of colorful wildflowers. Thus is it with God's blessings and restoration in the lives of His saints in answer to their prayers. Sowing and reaping can best be expressed in the following scripture verses: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galatians 6:9) "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain." (1 Corinthians 15:58). -
Q2. Psalm 96
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 8. Psalms: Exulting in the God of Our Salvation
Q2. (Psalm 96) What does it mean to "ascribe" to God attributes of glory and strength? What happens when we fail to ascribe such qualities to him? In what sense is praise to God "fitting" or "worthy"? To "ascribe" to God attributes of glory and strength is credit Him for those attributes and the glory that is His. In failing to ascribe such qualities to the Lord God is not to know Him. We have no relationship with Him. To praise God is both fitting and worthy, because these qualities conform with his name, his reputation, and his very character. To praise God is to know Him and have a relationship with Him. -
Q1. Psalm 57
Craig replied to Pastor Ralph's topic in 8. Psalms: Exulting in the God of Our Salvation
Q1. (Psalm 57) Why is praise difficult in the midst of trying circumstances? How does praise affect our faith? Our attitude? Our motivation? Praise can be difficult in the midst of trying circumstances because we become distracted from praise to obsession with the situation. We become depressed and often permit our imaginations to run away from us depicting the most extreme and depressing outcomes. We don't permit God to be our God! Because we want control and immediate relief, we rely upon our way and don't seek God's counsel causing broken fellowship with God and often an outcome we really didn't want. The bottomline is -- we must discipline ourselves to permit God to be our God through all situations, like David, in our lives. Trust and rest in God's Word and promises -- to stay the course with God. This is where real spiritual growth is developed. Where that tiny Sunday School faith develops into a mature, tested faith capable of enduring anything. -
Q4. (20:3) What is the basis on which Hezekiah asks for healing? Why is personal righteousness and holiness important in getting your prayers answered? How can unrighteousness prevent answered prayer if all gifts from God are by grace anyway? Hezekiah appealed to God's promises for an heir and for long life for those who live a righteous life. Personal righteousness and holiness reflect my love, commitment to God's way, and obedience to God's will for my life. Personal righteousness and holiness honor God. God answers the prayers of those who honor Him. Unrighteousness is sin and sin breaks fellowship with God, thus creating the potential for God not answering our prayers, not rewarding unrighteous behavior. Such as a parent might disciple a child. Rewarding bad, rebellious behavior sends the wrong message.
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Q3. Why is Hezekiah's healing important for his nation? How did it relate to God's promises to David? Hezekiah's healing was important for his nation to provide continued leadership until a heir to the throne was prepared to assume the duties of head of state. God promised to David a continual line of leadership upon the throne until the Messiah arrived.
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Q2. (19:15) How do the first two sentences of Hezekiah's prayer (verse 15) correspond to the first sentence of the Lord's Prayer? How are they important to faith? How are they important to God answering the prayer? The first two sentences of Hezekiah's prayer correspond to the first sentence of the Lord's Prayer: "Our Father who art in Heaven, Hallow be Your Name." These words are important to faith in that they are the very basis of faith - a belief that God is Our Father who art in Heaven and Hallowed is His Name. These words are important in God answering prayer because we are acknowledging that God is "Our Father" and is capable of answering our prayer and His throne is in Heaven.
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Q1. (19:14) What is the significance of Hezekiah spreading out the enemy's message before the Lord? What is the underlying principle illustrated here? How can we apply this principle to our own lives? What happens when we don't apply this principle? Hezekiah is bringing the matter before the Lord. The underlying principle is that we should bring all of our matters before the Lord and seek His leadership. We can apply this principle to our own lives by doing it. When we don't bring our matters before the Lord, we are trusting in ourselves and limiting the ability of God to be our God.
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Q4. Why is a person's attitude with regard to giving related to that person's attitude towards praise? Why does an attitude of possessiveness with regards to giving get in the way of worship? In what sense do all your possessions belong to God? What then should be your relationship to your possessions? How will these truths re-energize your giving? Your praise? Out of praise and thanksgiving to God for the goodness and blessings He has showered upon me, I cannot give enough to Him. Because of this, God has developed within me a generosity in giving. I love and enjoy allowing God to bless others through me. When I am too possessive or selfish with my resources, it gets in the way of worship and service. All of my possessions really belong to God because He is the source of all of it. I think all of us who love the Lord God should have an open hand in giving to God and blessing others. The more I give, the more grateful I am that God is using me to bless others, and am making a difference on this planet for Jesus Christ --I get excited and want to praise and thank God for using me in the spreading of the Kingdom of God.
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Q3. Verses 11 and 12 both attribute various characteristics to God, such as glory, honor, and might. How might you begin to mention God's greatness in your own prayers? Where is this kind of praise found by example in the Lord's Prayer? What are your favorite songs that point to God's greatness? I would mention God's great mercy, love and awesomeness. God's great power, creativity and care. The kind of praise found in verses 11 and 12 are the same kind of praise found in the doxology of the Lord's prayer: "...For yours is the kingdom and and the power and the glory forever. Amen." Two of my favorite songs that point to God's greatness are "How Great Thou Art" and "Holy, Holy, Holy"
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Q2. In what way does praise exalt God? Why should we exalt God? What does this exaltation do in us? What does it say about us? By praising God we are enthroning Him in our lives and acknowleding His majesty. We should exalt God because He is our Father and Creator. This exaltation places God above all else in our lives and removes all other gods from our life. Our exaltation of God moves us closer to Him. It creates within us a humble spirit. In praising and exalting God, it says that we are placing God above ourselves, in His rightful place.
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Q1. In what way do our prayers of praise "bless" God? What do we mere humans have that God desires in a blessing? What are prayers like, that don't include blessing God? I think our prayers of praise "bless" God in that are we showing Him our love and acknowledging Him as our Creator and provider. God desires our love and fellowship. In praising Him, we are humbling ourselves in removing self-love and ego and acknowledging the Creator of the Universe. Prayers that don't include blessing God are selfish prayers.
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Q5. After you've studied the psalms in this chapter, what do you think it means to "rest" in God? How do you seek God's peace when you have a dozen things coming against you? Resting in God means giving my life to Him and trusting that He will deliver on His promises. Or letting God be God in my life. I go to God every day and give it to Him -- good, bad or in between. I do not let problems or troubles distract me. I go to prayer and give them to God and trust Him and I don't worry about things.
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Q4. (Psalm 46) How does the imagery of the river and streams in verse 4 function in Psalm 46 to speak peace to the harassed and harried person? Verse 10 tells us: "Be still and know that I am God." How does knowledge of who He is affect our peace? How should it affect our words? Why does He command us to "be still" as a result of this knowledge? The imagery of the river and streams in verse 4 functions as symbols of God's restoration and refreshment of the soul leading to individual peace when facing troubles and obversity. Knowing that God is in control and ultimately works everything for good in the lives of those that love and fear Him, brings great peace and contentment. This should cause us to be still (be quiet, no words), before God. Being still permits God to our God and causes us to focus on Him.