Essential 100
Pointing People to Jesus through Reaching, Teaching, Celebrating, and Serving.
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Essential 100
Week Nineteen: The Apostles’ Teaching
[To listen to an audio recording, click here]
91. The Most Excellent Way (1 Corinthians 13:1-13)
What is the greatest example of love you’ve seen or experienced in your life?
Why do you think Paul says love is the greatest virtue?
92. A New Creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 4:1—6:2)
In what ways does one become a “new creation” as a result of following Jesus?
How can an ordinary person become an effective ambassador for Christ?
93. A Living Hope (1 Peter 1:1—2:12)
Do you think it’s possible to be sure about matters of faith? Why?
What things make you the most hopeful in life?
94. Faith andWorks (James 1:1—2:26)
What have been the biggest trials you’ve faced in life?
Did they make you a better person? How?
What are you most comfortable with, faith or works? Why?
95. Love One Another (1 John 3:11—4:21)
What would you say are the marks of a true Christian?
Do most Christians you know bear those marks? Do you?
The reading for yesterday came from 1 Peter 1:1-2:12 and addresses the Living Hope. I love that the beginning of this reading reminds us of the hope we have through Christ’s resurrection – a hope that is “imperishable, undefiled, and unfading” (vs 1:4) It follows with the reminder that this brings us great joy! (vs 1:6) How fortunate we are that in spite of all the tests and trials we may encounter; we possess great joy. We draw strength by knowing that our faith is secure in a hope that will outlast any challenge we have on this earth. And that hope allows us to continue the work God has call us to do, as individuals, and as a community of faith. 1 Peter 1:13 says “Therefore, get your minds ready for action…” the Greek phrase means “binding up the loins of your mind” a figure of speech drawn from the Middle Eastern practice of gathering up long robes around the waist to prepare for the work or action. I guess our modern cultural image could be “rolling up the sleeves of your mind.” Basically , get whatever may be getting in your way under control and get ready! God is doing exciting things in our lives, and we should move boldly and with great joy as we share this eternal hope that we’ve been given!
Blessings to you all,
Pastor Douglas
