2013 RESOLUTION SUGGESTION
Luke 11:2
“But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come to you.”
Jesus means that because He—the King—is present, His Kingdom comes to whomever accepts Him. Right here, right now. His peace is present, His grace is present, His forgiveness is present, His healing is present. Jesus’ luggage that moves into hearts includes “His kingdom come.” His kingdom change sour world(s) IF we are willing, and invite Him in.
Here’s a resolution that can change 2013 lives into something different from 2012.
Wherever Jesus is welcome, He will enter, and get to work. “What work?” you may wonder. Ephesians 2:1 describes the world’s spirit: “...you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of the world and ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.” (Emphasis added).
“What’s your New Year’s resolution?” Cassie asked her fifth grade classmate, Jeremy.
Jeremy thought for a second. “I don’t think I need one,” he replied with a smile. “I’m perfect!”
When we forget our sins, we cruise life in the comfort zone of the devil’s lie. Really, we are cruising down peer-pressured highways lined with satanically-inspired values and ideas—independent of God.
Oh.
Jesus prayed to the Father in John 17:15, “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one.”
Worldly influence is nearly impossible for God’s kids to escape. But Jesus gives us His Word to guide us against conforming to the world’s values. His Spirit strengthens us to resist sin. Jesus even gives us kingdom keys in Matthew 16:18-19, that He authorized and entrusted us to use.
Jeremy, please make a new year’s resolution!
“What’s your New Year’s resolution, Cassie?” Jeremy asked.
Cassie was ready to answer, “Ever since I volunteered at the Food Kitchen, I resolve to be grateful for all my blessings.” (See Amazon eBook, Christmas Incarnation How Will You Put Your Ten Minas to Work?). She continued, “I resolve to pray that everyone has a home, and food to eat every day, in Jesus' Name.”
Take Home Nugget
Cassie learned much after volunteering. She embraces the privilege of partnering with Jesus, using the kingdom keys Jesus authorized. Matthew 6:10, the “Lord’s Prayer” says, “your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Praying for other’s welfare brings God’s kingdom into their lives. Using keys to the kingdom prayerfully, Jesus authorizes us to bring God’s will to earth!
What’s your New Year’s resolution?
Jesus authorizes God’s kids to bring His will to earth using kingdom keys.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for 2013 Resolution Suggestion<
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
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Friday, December 28, 2012
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Meet Infinite Jesus
MEET INFINITE JESUS
Revelation 21:6a
“He said to me: ‘It is done. I am the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End.’”
Mr. Robbins stood in front of the sanctuary.
“Good morning.” he began. “Instead of a sermon, Pastor is letting our fifth grade Sunday school students show you to six qualities of Jesus’ personhood today. This will make us all glad that He’s infinite!” He held out the microphone. “Melanie?”
Melanie stood up from the front pew, wearing a long white robe. She walked to Mr. Robbins, took the mic, and faced the congregation. Reading from a card, she said, “Isaiah 55:4 says, ‘See, I have made Him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.’” Melanie introduced herself, “I am Melanie, representing Jesus as witness to humankind. Jesus is righteousness in the flesh. He never sinned. He never bragged about being God...but He did challenge the doubtful.”
“In John 14:8-10, Phillip wanted Jesus to show him the Father. Jesus answered: ‘Don’t you know Me, Phillip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in Me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves.’” Melanie said, “Jesus rocked as witness! Phillip?”
Phillip, wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants, walked to Melanie. He faced the congregation, and began, “I am Phillip. No, not THAT Phillip.” He said, pointing to Melanie, amid laughter from the congregation. “I represent Jesus as a prophet. God shared the future with Moses when He said in Deuteronomy 18:18: ‘I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in His mouth, and He will tell them everything I command Him.’”
Phillip continued, “Jesus fulfilled this prophecy, and revealed Himself as fully God and fully man. He fulfilled three main functions of a prophet: teacher, seer, and mouthpiece of God’s judgment. Jesus says in John 5:22, ‘Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son.’” Phillip said, “as our eternal prophet, He will be the one who judges the nations in Revelation 22:12.” Phillip handed the mic to Darby, who came forward dressed in a business suit.
“My name is Darby. I represent Jesus as intercessor.” she began, reading from her card. “Guten Tag! Wie geht es dir? If you don’t know German, these words don’t greet you with, ‘Good day, how are you?’ Without an intercessor, we’d be as disconnected from God as we would be with the natives in Germany. Our Translator, Jesus, came speaking the heart of God in our own language. Whoever believes in Jesus has union with the Father. Jesus is the bridge connecting us to eternal life and home in heaven.”
“Jesus takes up for His brothers and sisters.” Darby explained. “Romans 8:33-34 says, ‘Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.’ Brad?”
Brad walked up wearing camouflaged fatigues and claimed the microphone from Darby. He cleared his throat, and read from his card. “My name is Brad. I represent Jesus as a warrior. Saints will fight alongside Jesus, and we’ll win the battle of Armageddon, in Revelation 19:11-22. Jesus healed the ear Peter lopped off a soldier after Judas betrayed Him in Gethsemane, in Matthew 26:51. Don’t be confused—Jesus is our Great Physician and Reconciler—but He’s definitely not a pacifist!”
“Jesus called the Pharisees vipers in Luke 12:49, ‘I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how, I wish it were already kindled!’ Jesus fights the same enemies that we fight: death and the devil. Jesus came to save mankind, while at the same time wages war against sin and death. Jesus shows no mercy on the roaring lion that preys on God’s kids in 1 Peter 5:8: ‘Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.’” Brad held out the mic, which was claimed by a girl who was dressed as a priest.
“My name is Elieta” she announced, looking straight into the congregation. “I represent Jesus as priest. In the beginning only the high priest could enter the ‘holy of holies,’ and had to sacrifice a poor animal regularly to pay for people’s sins. The high priest was the only one allowed in God’s presence. He was required to meet tons of requirements, and purification rites. The high priest had bells sewn on his robe, announcing his coming into God’s presence. A retrieval rope trailed his entrance into the holy of holies—just in case he would have died in God’s presence. ”
Elieta continued, “After Jesus’ sacrifice of dying on a cross, atoning for everybody’s sins—past, present and future—no more animals were sacrificed. Jesus was the final sacrifice, and His priesthood is superior to all previous priests. Jesus ushered in God’s new covenant, with better promises for God’s children. Jesus’ place is at the Father’s right hand right now in heaven. Hebrews 7:17 declares, ‘You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.’”
Sean, dressed in a purple robe and wearing a crown on his head, changed places with Elieta. Sean began, “I am Sean representing Jesus as King of kings.” Sean smiled at the congregation. “You don’t need to schedule an appointment for a private meeting with this King. Jesus invites you to ‘come-as-you-are.’ He longs for every person to come and build a private, intimate relationship with Him. Talk about being infinite! If Jesus were on Facebook, He could have six hundred billion friends--and He wants to have relationships with each one!”
Take Home Nugget
“People were naturally drawn to Jesus. His articulate, intelligent speech drew crowds everywhere He went. His authority was only challenged by the foolish. Luke 4:22 says, ‘All spoke well of Him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from His lips. ‘Isn’t this Joseph’s son?’ they asked.’ Yes. Well, actually, no. Jesus was raised by a carpenter, but was always God!”
Infinite Jesus abandoned His God-deserved glory temporarily for thirty-three years on earth.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Meet Infinite Jesus
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Revelation 21:6a
“He said to me: ‘It is done. I am the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End.’”
Mr. Robbins stood in front of the sanctuary.
“Good morning.” he began. “Instead of a sermon, Pastor is letting our fifth grade Sunday school students show you to six qualities of Jesus’ personhood today. This will make us all glad that He’s infinite!” He held out the microphone. “Melanie?”
Melanie stood up from the front pew, wearing a long white robe. She walked to Mr. Robbins, took the mic, and faced the congregation. Reading from a card, she said, “Isaiah 55:4 says, ‘See, I have made Him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander of the peoples.’” Melanie introduced herself, “I am Melanie, representing Jesus as witness to humankind. Jesus is righteousness in the flesh. He never sinned. He never bragged about being God...but He did challenge the doubtful.”
“In John 14:8-10, Phillip wanted Jesus to show him the Father. Jesus answered: ‘Don’t you know Me, Phillip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in Me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves.’” Melanie said, “Jesus rocked as witness! Phillip?”
Phillip, wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants, walked to Melanie. He faced the congregation, and began, “I am Phillip. No, not THAT Phillip.” He said, pointing to Melanie, amid laughter from the congregation. “I represent Jesus as a prophet. God shared the future with Moses when He said in Deuteronomy 18:18: ‘I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in His mouth, and He will tell them everything I command Him.’”
Phillip continued, “Jesus fulfilled this prophecy, and revealed Himself as fully God and fully man. He fulfilled three main functions of a prophet: teacher, seer, and mouthpiece of God’s judgment. Jesus says in John 5:22, ‘Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son.’” Phillip said, “as our eternal prophet, He will be the one who judges the nations in Revelation 22:12.” Phillip handed the mic to Darby, who came forward dressed in a business suit.
“My name is Darby. I represent Jesus as intercessor.” she began, reading from her card. “Guten Tag! Wie geht es dir? If you don’t know German, these words don’t greet you with, ‘Good day, how are you?’ Without an intercessor, we’d be as disconnected from God as we would be with the natives in Germany. Our Translator, Jesus, came speaking the heart of God in our own language. Whoever believes in Jesus has union with the Father. Jesus is the bridge connecting us to eternal life and home in heaven.”
“Jesus takes up for His brothers and sisters.” Darby explained. “Romans 8:33-34 says, ‘Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.’ Brad?”
Brad walked up wearing camouflaged fatigues and claimed the microphone from Darby. He cleared his throat, and read from his card. “My name is Brad. I represent Jesus as a warrior. Saints will fight alongside Jesus, and we’ll win the battle of Armageddon, in Revelation 19:11-22. Jesus healed the ear Peter lopped off a soldier after Judas betrayed Him in Gethsemane, in Matthew 26:51. Don’t be confused—Jesus is our Great Physician and Reconciler—but He’s definitely not a pacifist!”
“Jesus called the Pharisees vipers in Luke 12:49, ‘I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how, I wish it were already kindled!’ Jesus fights the same enemies that we fight: death and the devil. Jesus came to save mankind, while at the same time wages war against sin and death. Jesus shows no mercy on the roaring lion that preys on God’s kids in 1 Peter 5:8: ‘Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.’” Brad held out the mic, which was claimed by a girl who was dressed as a priest.
“My name is Elieta” she announced, looking straight into the congregation. “I represent Jesus as priest. In the beginning only the high priest could enter the ‘holy of holies,’ and had to sacrifice a poor animal regularly to pay for people’s sins. The high priest was the only one allowed in God’s presence. He was required to meet tons of requirements, and purification rites. The high priest had bells sewn on his robe, announcing his coming into God’s presence. A retrieval rope trailed his entrance into the holy of holies—just in case he would have died in God’s presence. ”
Elieta continued, “After Jesus’ sacrifice of dying on a cross, atoning for everybody’s sins—past, present and future—no more animals were sacrificed. Jesus was the final sacrifice, and His priesthood is superior to all previous priests. Jesus ushered in God’s new covenant, with better promises for God’s children. Jesus’ place is at the Father’s right hand right now in heaven. Hebrews 7:17 declares, ‘You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.’”
Sean, dressed in a purple robe and wearing a crown on his head, changed places with Elieta. Sean began, “I am Sean representing Jesus as King of kings.” Sean smiled at the congregation. “You don’t need to schedule an appointment for a private meeting with this King. Jesus invites you to ‘come-as-you-are.’ He longs for every person to come and build a private, intimate relationship with Him. Talk about being infinite! If Jesus were on Facebook, He could have six hundred billion friends--and He wants to have relationships with each one!”
Take Home Nugget
“People were naturally drawn to Jesus. His articulate, intelligent speech drew crowds everywhere He went. His authority was only challenged by the foolish. Luke 4:22 says, ‘All spoke well of Him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from His lips. ‘Isn’t this Joseph’s son?’ they asked.’ Yes. Well, actually, no. Jesus was raised by a carpenter, but was always God!”
Infinite Jesus abandoned His God-deserved glory temporarily for thirty-three years on earth.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Meet Infinite Jesus
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Meet Simeon
MEET SIMEON
Luke 2:25
“Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.”
“Sit down, class.” Mr. Robbins said. “Christmas is days away, and we’ve got work to do!”
“Melanie said pulling out a chair at their round table. “What work?”
“I want you to meet someone,” Mr. Robbins said when everyone sat down. “Open your Bibles to Luke chapter two. It’s time to discover what the world was like when Jesus was born, and why the Father chose this time for Jesus’ birth.”
“Check out verses 22-27. Jesus was forty days old, time for Him to be presented to the Lord, as was Jewish custom for first born males. Mary and Joseph ran into Simeon, an aged priest, at the temple. His eyes lit up when he saw the baby, knowing this was answer to his prayers.
“Taking the baby in his arms, he praised God, confirming the baby as 'light to the Gentiles, and glory to Israel.' You see, Simeon had lived long enough to see Israel go through tough times. He was ready for a redeemer. He’d seen Israel divided. The northern tribes betrayed the God of their fathers, and were no longer people set apart for God.
“Meanwhile, the southern kingdom also bought trouble after years of idol worship. They’d been conquered and taken captive by foreign monarchs. (See Star Followers devotion). After the Jewish uprising of Judas Maccabeus in 167 B.C., Israel enjoyed 100 years of independence. Then infighting broke out among her people. This opened the door for Pompey, a Roman general to take control. In 63 B.C., he made Judah—now known by its Greek name, Judea—a tributary of the Roman Empire.
“That ended Israel being ruled by her own, like King David. Israel would be ruled by the Roman government, now. King Herod was the first, appointed in 37 B.C. Enter, Jesus.”
“So Simeon was looking for the Messiah, and he met Jesus!” Brad said. “So why didn’t the Jews embrace Him as the one they’d been waiting for?”
“An age-old question,” Mr. Robbins said. “They will acknowledge Jesus as their Messiah one day, Brad. But not yet.”
Take Home Nugget
Mr. Robbins continued, “Two Jewish religious groups rose to leadership, even while being under Roman control. They were the Sadducees, and the influential Pharisees. Apostle Paul was a Pharisee(Philippians 3:5). The Pharisees wanted to be seen as holy. This is the stage onto which Jesus was born. You know He had lots of interaction with the Sadducees and Pharisees!”
From heaven’s throne Jesus came to earth—a gift from God of priceless worth!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Meet Simeon
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Luke 2:25
“Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.”
“Sit down, class.” Mr. Robbins said. “Christmas is days away, and we’ve got work to do!”
“Melanie said pulling out a chair at their round table. “What work?”
“I want you to meet someone,” Mr. Robbins said when everyone sat down. “Open your Bibles to Luke chapter two. It’s time to discover what the world was like when Jesus was born, and why the Father chose this time for Jesus’ birth.”
“Check out verses 22-27. Jesus was forty days old, time for Him to be presented to the Lord, as was Jewish custom for first born males. Mary and Joseph ran into Simeon, an aged priest, at the temple. His eyes lit up when he saw the baby, knowing this was answer to his prayers.
“Taking the baby in his arms, he praised God, confirming the baby as 'light to the Gentiles, and glory to Israel.' You see, Simeon had lived long enough to see Israel go through tough times. He was ready for a redeemer. He’d seen Israel divided. The northern tribes betrayed the God of their fathers, and were no longer people set apart for God.
“Meanwhile, the southern kingdom also bought trouble after years of idol worship. They’d been conquered and taken captive by foreign monarchs. (See Star Followers devotion). After the Jewish uprising of Judas Maccabeus in 167 B.C., Israel enjoyed 100 years of independence. Then infighting broke out among her people. This opened the door for Pompey, a Roman general to take control. In 63 B.C., he made Judah—now known by its Greek name, Judea—a tributary of the Roman Empire.
“That ended Israel being ruled by her own, like King David. Israel would be ruled by the Roman government, now. King Herod was the first, appointed in 37 B.C. Enter, Jesus.”
“So Simeon was looking for the Messiah, and he met Jesus!” Brad said. “So why didn’t the Jews embrace Him as the one they’d been waiting for?”
“An age-old question,” Mr. Robbins said. “They will acknowledge Jesus as their Messiah one day, Brad. But not yet.”
Take Home Nugget
Mr. Robbins continued, “Two Jewish religious groups rose to leadership, even while being under Roman control. They were the Sadducees, and the influential Pharisees. Apostle Paul was a Pharisee(Philippians 3:5). The Pharisees wanted to be seen as holy. This is the stage onto which Jesus was born. You know He had lots of interaction with the Sadducees and Pharisees!”
From heaven’s throne Jesus came to earth—a gift from God of priceless worth!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Meet Simeon
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Old Testament Snapshots
OLD TESTAMENT SNAPSHOTS
Luke 24:25-27
“He said to them, [two men walking], ‘How foolish you are, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter His glory?’ And He explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself.”
The Holy Bible is sort of Jesus’ photo album in words, a scrap book of various snaps of Jesus Christ. As Advent draws to its breathless climax of Jesus’ birth on earth as God-man, let’s browse through some Old Testament snapshots.
Genesis 3:15 snaps God’s subtle hint of Messiah being divine, human, AND born of a woman! God says to Satan, “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; He will crush your head, and you will strike His heel.”
Isaiah 7:14 snaps specific nuggets: “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and call Him Immanuel.” Micah 5:2 snaps more clues: “But you, Bethlehem, Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times.” Now we know where, and that He’s ancient!
Bethlehem means “house of bread.” What does Jesus call Himself in John 6:51?
God promised Abraham in Genesis 22:18: “through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed.” Through Isaac, we find Jacob blessing his sons in Genesis 49:10. His words narrow the Anointed One’s roots to descendants of Judah: “The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until it comes to whom it belongs and the obedience of the nations are His.”
God gives clues of Jesus to Moses in Deuteronomy 18:18: “I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in His mouth, and He will tell them everything I command Him.” Psalm 110:4 (and Hebrews 5:10) tells us that He would be a “priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.”
God snaps His claim on Christ, in Psalm 2:4: “You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.” Isaiah 53:2b snaps a portrait of Jesus: “He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him.”
Take Home Nugget
Isaiah snaps Jesus’ trial and execution in 53:8: “By oppression and judgment He was taken away. And who can speak of His descendants? For He was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people He was stricken.”
Jesus broke into human history to offer us eternal life.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for OT Snapshots
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Luke 24:25-27
“He said to them, [two men walking], ‘How foolish you are, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter His glory?’ And He explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself.”
The Holy Bible is sort of Jesus’ photo album in words, a scrap book of various snaps of Jesus Christ. As Advent draws to its breathless climax of Jesus’ birth on earth as God-man, let’s browse through some Old Testament snapshots.
Genesis 3:15 snaps God’s subtle hint of Messiah being divine, human, AND born of a woman! God says to Satan, “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; He will crush your head, and you will strike His heel.”
Isaiah 7:14 snaps specific nuggets: “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and call Him Immanuel.” Micah 5:2 snaps more clues: “But you, Bethlehem, Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times.” Now we know where, and that He’s ancient!
Bethlehem means “house of bread.” What does Jesus call Himself in John 6:51?
God promised Abraham in Genesis 22:18: “through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed.” Through Isaac, we find Jacob blessing his sons in Genesis 49:10. His words narrow the Anointed One’s roots to descendants of Judah: “The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until it comes to whom it belongs and the obedience of the nations are His.”
God gives clues of Jesus to Moses in Deuteronomy 18:18: “I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in His mouth, and He will tell them everything I command Him.” Psalm 110:4 (and Hebrews 5:10) tells us that He would be a “priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.”
God snaps His claim on Christ, in Psalm 2:4: “You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.” Isaiah 53:2b snaps a portrait of Jesus: “He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him.”
Take Home Nugget
Isaiah snaps Jesus’ trial and execution in 53:8: “By oppression and judgment He was taken away. And who can speak of His descendants? For He was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people He was stricken.”
Jesus broke into human history to offer us eternal life.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for OT Snapshots
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, December 14, 2012
More About Magi
MORE ABOUT MAGI
Genesis 1:14
“And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years.’”
Matthew 2:9
“After they [Magi] heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was.”
Star Followers devotion showed how the Magi might well have been descendants from Daniel and fellow Hebrews exiled to Babylon from Judah around 600-500 B.C. The Babylonians could easily have learned about the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob from these dislocated Jews. The promised Messiah might have been the Magi’s hope to see fulfilled by following a new star that suddenly appeared.
Light pollution never obstructed the night sky’s glory of stars thousands of years ago. And, people in the Middle East frequently slept on the roofs of houses to escape the summer’s heat in the desert. Looking up at the sky displayed God’s glorious creation spread out like a blanket. It’s easy to see how the stars entertained and delighted them. Each night was a study of stars and constellations. Astrology and astronomy were born from those nightly studies. Surely, some would notice something new.
The Magi discovered a new “star.” They followed where it led, and found Jesus where it stopped. Astronomy details stars in retrograde, which seem to change course, as seen from earth. And during such starry dances, retrograde motions of stars in reverse directions can seem to make stars stop. F.A. Larson researched this “starry dance,” date specific to Christ’s birth, and shares his work in http://www.BethlehemStar.net.
The Magi’s journey following this star from Babylon to Jerusalem took roughly seven months. The first opening Scripture tells that God made lights, as signs to men. The second Scripture tells how the Magi found Jesus. While this may seem incredulous, a star leading and then stopping, God can do all things! Why should it surprise us how God announced the birth of His Son in the sky?
Curious Magi focused on exalting this new king of the Jews.
Take Home Nugget
The Magi’s gifts were appropriate for a king, high priest, and redeemer. Gold was given to show honor and high esteem—befitting a king. The fragrant smoke of frankincense raised to heaven carrying prayers of priests, is appropriate for our High Priest, Jesus (1Timothy 2:5).
Myrrh was an expensive perfume, used mainly in wrapping dead bodies in linen cloth. Nicodemus fulfilled prophesy in John 19:38-40, by wrapping Jesus body using myrrh and aloes.
God’s gift of His Son to the world is life-saving Savior as priest, redeemer, and king.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for More About Magi
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Genesis 1:14
“And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years.’”
Matthew 2:9
“After they [Magi] heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was.”
Star Followers devotion showed how the Magi might well have been descendants from Daniel and fellow Hebrews exiled to Babylon from Judah around 600-500 B.C. The Babylonians could easily have learned about the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob from these dislocated Jews. The promised Messiah might have been the Magi’s hope to see fulfilled by following a new star that suddenly appeared.
Light pollution never obstructed the night sky’s glory of stars thousands of years ago. And, people in the Middle East frequently slept on the roofs of houses to escape the summer’s heat in the desert. Looking up at the sky displayed God’s glorious creation spread out like a blanket. It’s easy to see how the stars entertained and delighted them. Each night was a study of stars and constellations. Astrology and astronomy were born from those nightly studies. Surely, some would notice something new.
The Magi discovered a new “star.” They followed where it led, and found Jesus where it stopped. Astronomy details stars in retrograde, which seem to change course, as seen from earth. And during such starry dances, retrograde motions of stars in reverse directions can seem to make stars stop. F.A. Larson researched this “starry dance,” date specific to Christ’s birth, and shares his work in http://www.BethlehemStar.net.
The Magi’s journey following this star from Babylon to Jerusalem took roughly seven months. The first opening Scripture tells that God made lights, as signs to men. The second Scripture tells how the Magi found Jesus. While this may seem incredulous, a star leading and then stopping, God can do all things! Why should it surprise us how God announced the birth of His Son in the sky?
Curious Magi focused on exalting this new king of the Jews.
Take Home Nugget
The Magi’s gifts were appropriate for a king, high priest, and redeemer. Gold was given to show honor and high esteem—befitting a king. The fragrant smoke of frankincense raised to heaven carrying prayers of priests, is appropriate for our High Priest, Jesus (1Timothy 2:5).
Myrrh was an expensive perfume, used mainly in wrapping dead bodies in linen cloth. Nicodemus fulfilled prophesy in John 19:38-40, by wrapping Jesus body using myrrh and aloes.
God’s gift of His Son to the world is life-saving Savior as priest, redeemer, and king.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for More About Magi
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Herod in Conflict
HEROD IN CONFLICT
Matthew 2:3-4
“When Herod heard this [Magi asking where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?] he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born.”
“Mysterious Magi,” Mr. Robbins said to his fifth grade Sunday school class, “were foreigners arriving to Jerusalem, asked only were to find the one who is born king of the Jews. How do you think king Herod would have reacted?” (See Star Followers devotion). “Brad?”
“I think he was really upset!”
“Why, Brad?”
“Wasn’t Herod the king?”
“Yes, earthly speaking, Herod was king of the Jews.” Mr. Robbins said. “Caesar Octavian appointed Herod king in 37 B.C. The Magi really blew his mind. Herod thought he was in charge of his little Roman kingdom, until foreigners come along, asking where to find the one who they named with his title!”
Brad said, “Right. I would have felt threatened, too!”
“So, what did Herod do about it?” Mr. Robbins asked. “Melanie?”
“Didn’t Herod demand to see the Jewish priests and teachers?”
“Right,” Mr. Robbins confirmed. “And that’s not all. The chief priests and teachers told him exactly where they were expecting their Messiah to be born.” Mr. Robbins pointed to the whiteboard, where the passage from Matthew 2:6 was written. “Where did they tell Herod to find him?”
“But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who shall be the shepherd of my people Israel.”
“Bethlehem!” the class answered.
Mr. Robbins said, “Bethlehem is five miles south of Jerusalem. So, that sounds pretty easy for Herod to go and find Him, right?” The kids all nodded their heads. “So why did Herod over-react to the situation, and have all baby boys two hears old and under killed?”
Philip had an idea. “He was paranoid, Mr. Robbins!”
“He probably was.” Mr. Robbins agreed. “Remember, the Wise Men didn’t report back to Herod after they found the child, because they were warned in a dream to go home a different way.” (Matthew 2:17).
Take Home Nugget
We don’t know the details about the meeting between the Magi and Herod (Matthew 2:7). We can only imagine that the Magi shattered Herod’s world. His throne was being threatened—challenged by a baby—who Herod figured would succeed him as king! Don’t we naturally over react when we feel ourselves losing control over situations?
We think we’ve got it all together,
Then our world is shattered.
Only belief in Jesus makes it all better,
Trusting Him heals the battered.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Herod in Conflict
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Matthew 2:3-4
“When Herod heard this [Magi asking where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?] he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born.”
“Mysterious Magi,” Mr. Robbins said to his fifth grade Sunday school class, “were foreigners arriving to Jerusalem, asked only were to find the one who is born king of the Jews. How do you think king Herod would have reacted?” (See Star Followers devotion). “Brad?”
“I think he was really upset!”
“Why, Brad?”
“Wasn’t Herod the king?”
“Yes, earthly speaking, Herod was king of the Jews.” Mr. Robbins said. “Caesar Octavian appointed Herod king in 37 B.C. The Magi really blew his mind. Herod thought he was in charge of his little Roman kingdom, until foreigners come along, asking where to find the one who they named with his title!”
Brad said, “Right. I would have felt threatened, too!”
“So, what did Herod do about it?” Mr. Robbins asked. “Melanie?”
“Didn’t Herod demand to see the Jewish priests and teachers?”
“Right,” Mr. Robbins confirmed. “And that’s not all. The chief priests and teachers told him exactly where they were expecting their Messiah to be born.” Mr. Robbins pointed to the whiteboard, where the passage from Matthew 2:6 was written. “Where did they tell Herod to find him?”
“But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who shall be the shepherd of my people Israel.”
“Bethlehem!” the class answered.
Mr. Robbins said, “Bethlehem is five miles south of Jerusalem. So, that sounds pretty easy for Herod to go and find Him, right?” The kids all nodded their heads. “So why did Herod over-react to the situation, and have all baby boys two hears old and under killed?”
Philip had an idea. “He was paranoid, Mr. Robbins!”
“He probably was.” Mr. Robbins agreed. “Remember, the Wise Men didn’t report back to Herod after they found the child, because they were warned in a dream to go home a different way.” (Matthew 2:17).
Take Home Nugget
We don’t know the details about the meeting between the Magi and Herod (Matthew 2:7). We can only imagine that the Magi shattered Herod’s world. His throne was being threatened—challenged by a baby—who Herod figured would succeed him as king! Don’t we naturally over react when we feel ourselves losing control over situations?
We think we’ve got it all together,
Then our world is shattered.
Only belief in Jesus makes it all better,
Trusting Him heals the battered.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Herod in Conflict
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Star Followers
STAR FOLLOWERS
Matthew 2:1-2
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?’ We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.”
“Who are the Magi, really?” Brad asked Mr. Robbins, his fifth grade Sunday school teacher. “Were they magicians?”
“The word ‘Magi’ certainly sounds so close to magic,” Mr. Robbins said. “Magi is a Latin word, plural for Magus. Magus is an old Greek word for ‘magician.’ Fascination for astrology and magic flooded Western Asia/Eastern Mediterranean part of the world in the fourth century before Christ. (Part of the world where Iraq, and Iran is today). Some Magi developed astrology and magic, ways to read the stars and foretell mans’ fate. Astrology is where horoscopes and Tarot Cards originate. Over time, astrology was discredited as a scam in trickery and fraud.
“But the Magi who travelled to Jerusalem following one special star were different. They could have been Zoroastrians, from the area around Babylon—same part of the world. Zoroastrians also learned how to read the stars. But they documented the stars, moons and planets’ repeated patterns in the sky. They founded astronomy—a serious science that studies celestial bodies. God ordained men studying the sky for signs in Genesis 1:14). Although similar to astrology, astronomy doesn’t link man’s fate to the exact time of birth, nor predict the future. Matthew 2:11 confirms three gifts of the Magi. We assume that three men came to Jerusalem following one star leading to Jesus.”
“But, how did they know about ‘king of the Jews?’” Darby asked.
“Great question, Darby!” Mr. Robbins said. Do you remember the Bible story of Daniel and the lion’s den? (Daniel 6). Well, Daniel was exiled from Israel to Babylon!”
“WOW!” Mr. Robbins’ class exclaimed together.
“When Daniel was a teenager, the Babylonians overpowered the nation of Judah. They took Daniel, along with many other Jews to Babylon (Daniel 1:1-6). Daniel grew up there, and along with other Hebrew boys, was trained for service to the king.
“Because the Lord gave Daniel the gift of interpreting dreams, he rose to positions of leadership in Babylon. Throughout Daniel’s whole life, he was honored and respected by rulers AND wise men. Now can you guess how the Magi in Matthew could have learned about a promised ‘King of the Jews?’”
Take Home Nugget
Matthew’s Magi were likely descendants of Daniel’s generation of Jews, forced into Babylon against their will. They probably taught the Babylonians about the God of Israel and the coming Messiah.
Dear Lord, we are WOWED at Your planning for Jesus to come to earth! Hallelujah!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Star Followers
http://www.formexperts.com/forms/0S3IO0GA13EM
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Matthew 2:1-2
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?’ We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.”
“Who are the Magi, really?” Brad asked Mr. Robbins, his fifth grade Sunday school teacher. “Were they magicians?”
“The word ‘Magi’ certainly sounds so close to magic,” Mr. Robbins said. “Magi is a Latin word, plural for Magus. Magus is an old Greek word for ‘magician.’ Fascination for astrology and magic flooded Western Asia/Eastern Mediterranean part of the world in the fourth century before Christ. (Part of the world where Iraq, and Iran is today). Some Magi developed astrology and magic, ways to read the stars and foretell mans’ fate. Astrology is where horoscopes and Tarot Cards originate. Over time, astrology was discredited as a scam in trickery and fraud.
“But the Magi who travelled to Jerusalem following one special star were different. They could have been Zoroastrians, from the area around Babylon—same part of the world. Zoroastrians also learned how to read the stars. But they documented the stars, moons and planets’ repeated patterns in the sky. They founded astronomy—a serious science that studies celestial bodies. God ordained men studying the sky for signs in Genesis 1:14). Although similar to astrology, astronomy doesn’t link man’s fate to the exact time of birth, nor predict the future. Matthew 2:11 confirms three gifts of the Magi. We assume that three men came to Jerusalem following one star leading to Jesus.”
“But, how did they know about ‘king of the Jews?’” Darby asked.
“Great question, Darby!” Mr. Robbins said. Do you remember the Bible story of Daniel and the lion’s den? (Daniel 6). Well, Daniel was exiled from Israel to Babylon!”
“WOW!” Mr. Robbins’ class exclaimed together.
“When Daniel was a teenager, the Babylonians overpowered the nation of Judah. They took Daniel, along with many other Jews to Babylon (Daniel 1:1-6). Daniel grew up there, and along with other Hebrew boys, was trained for service to the king.
“Because the Lord gave Daniel the gift of interpreting dreams, he rose to positions of leadership in Babylon. Throughout Daniel’s whole life, he was honored and respected by rulers AND wise men. Now can you guess how the Magi in Matthew could have learned about a promised ‘King of the Jews?’”
Take Home Nugget
Matthew’s Magi were likely descendants of Daniel’s generation of Jews, forced into Babylon against their will. They probably taught the Babylonians about the God of Israel and the coming Messiah.
Dear Lord, we are WOWED at Your planning for Jesus to come to earth! Hallelujah!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Star Followers
http://www.formexperts.com/forms/0S3IO0GA13EM
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Jesus' Parents
JESUS’ PARENTS
Matthew 1:18-19
“This is how the birth of Jesus Christ cam about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.”
Ten year old Cassie smiled as she walked downstairs. Her sandy hair was covered in a white and blue head sheet that matched her floor-length dress. Sandaled feet peeked out from the bottom of the dress. “Do I look like Mary?”
“YES!” her Mom said, snapping a picture of her daughter. She yelled, “Dad, let’s go! The Sunday school program will begin soon.”
On the way to church, Cassie’s mom asked, “Do you know your lines?”
“I hope so!” Cassie said. “Why did God chose Mary and Joseph to be Jesus’ parents?”
Let’s check out their values: Joseph was a righteous, kind, unselfish, and self-controlled young man. Mary was an obedient, happy, and smart young lady. They both had great faith in God. They proved this by their obedience to the weird ways God led them through their strange marriage.
Joseph and Mary followed every command God gave them in this supernatural situation. Joseph did not divorce Mary, as he originally intended. Mary accepted an angel’s message of her pregnancy in Luke 1:38. “‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May it be to me as you have said.’”
What a challenge to raise God! Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem one time. His parents thought that they’d lost Him! Luke 2:41-50 tells the story that Jesus was with the teachers at the temple when His parents headed home to Nazareth. Mary was frantic, and wondered why He would do this to them? Jesus answered her, “Why were you searching for Me? Didn’t you know I had to be about My Father’s business?”
Naturally, Mary pondered Jesus’ strange words in her heart. Many mothers wonder about their children, but understand that they’re just like one of the parents. Not Mary. Jesus wasn’t like her or Joseph, in many respects!
Take Home Nugget
Mary respected the change in their relationship as Jesus became an adult. Jesus chided Mary when she told Him they were out of wine at a wedding. John 2:3-4:
Jesus said, “Dear woman, why do you involve Me? My time has not yet come.”
As Jesus hung on the cross, their roles reversed. Jesus placed Mary’s care in the hands of John, His beloved disciple.
He said John 19:26-27, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.”
While children may not inherit their parent’s talents, they do absorb their values.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Jesus’ Parents
http://www.formexperts.com/forms/MO2JXFW0GJLF
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Matthew 1:18-19
“This is how the birth of Jesus Christ cam about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.”
Ten year old Cassie smiled as she walked downstairs. Her sandy hair was covered in a white and blue head sheet that matched her floor-length dress. Sandaled feet peeked out from the bottom of the dress. “Do I look like Mary?”
“YES!” her Mom said, snapping a picture of her daughter. She yelled, “Dad, let’s go! The Sunday school program will begin soon.”
On the way to church, Cassie’s mom asked, “Do you know your lines?”
“I hope so!” Cassie said. “Why did God chose Mary and Joseph to be Jesus’ parents?”
Let’s check out their values: Joseph was a righteous, kind, unselfish, and self-controlled young man. Mary was an obedient, happy, and smart young lady. They both had great faith in God. They proved this by their obedience to the weird ways God led them through their strange marriage.
Joseph and Mary followed every command God gave them in this supernatural situation. Joseph did not divorce Mary, as he originally intended. Mary accepted an angel’s message of her pregnancy in Luke 1:38. “‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May it be to me as you have said.’”
What a challenge to raise God! Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem one time. His parents thought that they’d lost Him! Luke 2:41-50 tells the story that Jesus was with the teachers at the temple when His parents headed home to Nazareth. Mary was frantic, and wondered why He would do this to them? Jesus answered her, “Why were you searching for Me? Didn’t you know I had to be about My Father’s business?”
Naturally, Mary pondered Jesus’ strange words in her heart. Many mothers wonder about their children, but understand that they’re just like one of the parents. Not Mary. Jesus wasn’t like her or Joseph, in many respects!
Take Home Nugget
Mary respected the change in their relationship as Jesus became an adult. Jesus chided Mary when she told Him they were out of wine at a wedding. John 2:3-4:
Jesus said, “Dear woman, why do you involve Me? My time has not yet come.”
As Jesus hung on the cross, their roles reversed. Jesus placed Mary’s care in the hands of John, His beloved disciple.
He said John 19:26-27, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.”
While children may not inherit their parent’s talents, they do absorb their values.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Jesus’ Parents
http://www.formexperts.com/forms/MO2JXFW0GJLF
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
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