I’m excited about studying Ezra since I’m not that familiar with the book. The idea of the first lesson “Seizing New Opportunities” from Ezra 1:1-3:13 is to see God’s hand in the opportunities that come our way in life. You might consider the following idea as you introduce the lesson. Post a regional map where everyone can see it and put your hand on the map and trace the outline of your hand with a marker. Emphasize to members that by studying Ezra we want to learn to recognize God hand in our lives thru the opportunities presented to us. Make the point that only by seizing them can we experience the blessings God intends for us. Done right, you can get everyone expecting to experience the blessings of God at work in their lives. How exciting is that?!In addition to the study questions by Sonshine linked to above, she also posted a background guide to Ezra that might help you. Send a note to Sonshine and thank her!! The blessing of reading her material is a God given opportunity we should seize today!
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2 comments:
How are you going to present all the history and background information? When I was in school, I never seized the opportunity for learning history, but seized every opportunity to avoid it, and am having a tough time trying to learn it now as I read and study the background for Ezra.
Hi Ethel,
You might consider just saying enough history to put the book in context, or if you'd like more detail, consider inviting someone to 'guest' talk and have them introduce the history of Ezra.
As an aside, watch this video for a 90 second history lesson on the middle east.
http://www.mapsofwar.com/images/EMPIRE17.swf
Ronnie
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