Monday, September 18, 2006

Be Obedient

We learned last week that to “Remain True” is to persevere in our faith. Dr. Robert Sloan asked “How to know that you are a Christian?” He preached from Romans 5:1-11, and summarized with three tests: (1) the doctrinal test—i.e. do we believe in a resurrected Jesus Christ? (2) A moral direction test—i.e. while everyone sins, Christians should be putting to death the deeds of the body, ridding themselves of habitual sin, and growing in the fruits of the Spirit. (3) A perseverance test—i.e. confess that Jesus is Lord and hold on to that confession in spite of doubts that come. His last point coincided well with the lesson.

Based on Hebrews 3:16-4:13, this week’s lesson “Be Obedient,” emphasizes obedience to the Lord. I’m tired from reading about the possible interpretations of “rest” in Chapter 3 and 4, including those in the quarterly LifeWay Leader Guide, and Explore the Bible Lesson Commentary.

I’m still thinking about how to open the lesson. Suggestions please!

1 comment:

servingHim said...

1. Show pictures of warehouses of goods (blessings) and describe how they were available to be had were it not for an evil heart of disbelief, lack of trust in God, and complaining spirit.

2. Illustrate the importance of obedience (see LifeWay Extra), or give an example of disobedience.

3. Emphasize the importance of responding to God today by showing a picture of a stopwatch.

4. Show a list of “experts” that people seek advice from today as they seek peace of mind and security