What were Jesus' brothers like? Did people in His household believe in His mission? What is the back story behind James? Which James wrote the book of James? Is there any way to be sure? How was the life of James transformed by Jesus? What message could that have for us today? Who was the Bishop of Jerusalem? This week we explore these fascinating mysteries delving into the life of James the Just.
What is the difference between revival and reformation? Which comes first? Is reformation really necessary at all? Does Jesus do all the work or is there an element of human participation in the process of reform? Does God really want to see change in our actions? How do we cooperate with God? This study will explore the theme of reformation and examine Jesus' disciples before and after reform. What if these men were allowed to stay the same and never went through reform? What kind of leaders would they be? How does reform or lack of reform influence the advancement of God's Kingdom?
This week we discuss the last book of the Old testament. Several questions are addressed. Does God love on person and hate another? Was Esau destined for failure? Is it really possible for a person to rob God? Should we give God the best or worst of what we have? This study also discusses God's love and His faithful relationship with His people.
Explores the messianic prophecies in chapters 8 through 14. God promises to send His righteous servant, the good shepherd. What does this mean? Why did so many misunderstand the prophecies of how the Messiah would be pierced and the sheep scattered? What does this say about how God reveals truth to His people? How should we reveal truth to people today?
Does God withhold blessings from people when He is not put first? What are some of the ways we don't put God first in our lives? In this week's study, John Spellman and Joseph Williams explore the return of God's people from captivity as they rebuild their own homes and leave God's temple in ruins. What was significant about the temple being left in ruins? What does God being "with us" really mean?
This week's study explores Zechariah 1-4 and each of the visions Zechariah has in those chapters. We will explore God's forgiveness and mercy. What does God mean by being "Jealous for Jerusalem"? Why was the angel of the Lord displeased by the nations being settled and at ease? What promises did God make to His people that still apply to us today? What was the true meaning behind the vision of Joshua the High Priest standing before the angel in filthy garments? How does this apply to us today? What was the vision of the lampstand with the seven golden lamps about?
Continuing the series on the minor prophets, John Spellman explores the prophet Zephaniah in this week's lesson. This study focuses on the "Day of the Lord". Is this day a day for everyone to look forward to? What does it mean to "Seek the Lord"? Why is it necessary for a loving God to judge? How does corruption among God's people spread so quickly? What is God's promise in spite of His divine judgment? Does God God really know how to sing? These questions are explored in this week's lesson.