HOW NOT TO GO TO HEAVEN
John 3:1-17
Verse 12: “I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?”
Ten year old Cassie stood over the gravestone of her grandparents. “Ellie Roberta and Dennis Alexander Hamilton” were both born in 1930, Cassie read. While Dennis died in 1995, Ellie lived another five years. I never knew them, Cassie thought, suddenly sad. Cassie walked to join her family. The cemetery provided pavilions for family get-togethers.
“Hey Mom, are grandma and pop-pop in heaven?” Cassie asked, sitting down at the picnic table.
Cassie’s mom looked straight into her daughter’s eyes, and said, “Yes they are!” Cassie smiled.
She said, “I can’t wait to meet them in heaven one day!”
How does Cassie’s mom know that her parents are in heaven? Believers in Jesus Christ can know for certain where they’ll spend eternity. How can they be sure? Because Romans 10:9 says: “That if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Belief in Christ is the only ticket that heaven accepts for people’s entry; the only ticket that’s stub is Jesus’ blood. Faulty religions say: surely “if you do your best,” or “you’re not bad enough to be condemned,” you’ll go to heaven. Whoever says that ‘you get to heaven by doing good deeds’ is flat-out wrong. Don’t believe these lies. If your church teaches that, find a new church.
Regardless of what kind of person you are, you choose your eternal home.
The truth is found in God’s Word.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Check out the lesson, linked below, to learn Jesus’ answer about how to enter into the kingdom of God. Being ‘born again’ is a matter of faith. Faith in Christ Jesus. Everyone who believes in Jesus is “born again” into a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Take Home Nugget
“How do you know for sure that grandma and pop-pop are in heaven?” Cassie pressed her mom.
“Because they raised me in a church where we spoke our faith in Jesus Christ, that the Father raised Him from the dead, and that we will rise after we die,” was her answer.
That’s the only correct answer. Any other answer is how not to go to heaven. What eternal home do you choose? What ticket stub is in your pocket?
Abba Father, Lead me straight into heaven with true belief about Jesus, in whose name I pray, Amen.
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY, USA!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for How Not to Go to Heaven
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
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Friday, May 31, 2013
How Not to Go to Heaven
HOW NOT TO GO TO HEAVEN
John 3:1-17
Verse 12: “I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?”
Ten year old Cassie lingered in front of the gravestone of her grandparents. “Ellie Roberta and Dennis Alexander Hamilton” were both born in 1930, Cassie read. While Dennis died in 1995, Ellie lived another five years. I never knew them Cassie thought.
Her heart drooped, imagining how fun it would have been to have grandparents spoil her—for at least for a few years. She ran to her mom, who was serving up barbequed chicken and corn on the cob to her family. The cemetery provided pavilions for family get-togethers.
“Hey Mom, are grandma and pop-pop in heaven?” Cassie asked, sitting down at the picnic table.
Cassie’s mom put down the tongs, and looked into her daughter’s eyes when she said, “Yes they are!”
Cassie smiled. She said, “I can’t wait to meet them in heaven one day!”
How does Cassie’s mom know that her parents are in heaven? Believers in Jesus Christ can know for certain where they’ll spend eternity. How can they be sure? Because Romans 10:9 says: “That if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Belief in Christ is the only ticket that gets anyone into heaven. That’s it. We must not believe faulty theology that says “if you do your best,” or “you’re not bad enough to be condemned,” you’ll go to heaven. Whoever says that ‘you get to heaven by doing good deeds’ is wrong. They’re all lies. In reality, it doesn’t matter what kind of person you are. The truth is found in God’s Word.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Check out the lesson, linked below, to learn Jesus’ answer about how to enter into the kingdom of God. Being ‘born again’ is a matter of faith. Faith in Christ Jesus. Everyone who believes in Jesus is “born again” into a new creation.
Take Home Nugget
“But how do you know for sure that grandma and pop-pop are in heaven?” Cassie pressed her mom.
“Because they took me to a church where we spoke our faith in Jesus Christ, and that the Father raised Him from the dead,” was her answer.
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for How Not to Go to Heaven
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
John 3:1-17
Verse 12: “I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?”
Ten year old Cassie lingered in front of the gravestone of her grandparents. “Ellie Roberta and Dennis Alexander Hamilton” were both born in 1930, Cassie read. While Dennis died in 1995, Ellie lived another five years. I never knew them Cassie thought.
Her heart drooped, imagining how fun it would have been to have grandparents spoil her—for at least for a few years. She ran to her mom, who was serving up barbequed chicken and corn on the cob to her family. The cemetery provided pavilions for family get-togethers.
“Hey Mom, are grandma and pop-pop in heaven?” Cassie asked, sitting down at the picnic table.
Cassie’s mom put down the tongs, and looked into her daughter’s eyes when she said, “Yes they are!”
Cassie smiled. She said, “I can’t wait to meet them in heaven one day!”
How does Cassie’s mom know that her parents are in heaven? Believers in Jesus Christ can know for certain where they’ll spend eternity. How can they be sure? Because Romans 10:9 says: “That if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Belief in Christ is the only ticket that gets anyone into heaven. That’s it. We must not believe faulty theology that says “if you do your best,” or “you’re not bad enough to be condemned,” you’ll go to heaven. Whoever says that ‘you get to heaven by doing good deeds’ is wrong. They’re all lies. In reality, it doesn’t matter what kind of person you are. The truth is found in God’s Word.
John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Check out the lesson, linked below, to learn Jesus’ answer about how to enter into the kingdom of God. Being ‘born again’ is a matter of faith. Faith in Christ Jesus. Everyone who believes in Jesus is “born again” into a new creation.
Take Home Nugget
“But how do you know for sure that grandma and pop-pop are in heaven?” Cassie pressed her mom.
“Because they took me to a church where we spoke our faith in Jesus Christ, and that the Father raised Him from the dead,” was her answer.
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for How Not to Go to Heaven
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Circle Promise
CIRCLE PROMISE
Genesis 12:2-3
“I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
When God makes a promise, it’s by covenant. The opening Scripture is God’s oath to Abraham: a promise with a guarantee. The principle of this covenant is the expansion of God’s kingdom rule through His servants—beginning with Abraham. The guarantee is shown that Abraham has been a blessing to all peoples on earth. As father of Ishmael, (who fathered the Arab nations), and father to Isaac, (the father of the Jewish and Judeo-Christian nations), God’s promise of blessing Abraham expanded to bring blessings to us through Abraham.
And God is glorified.
Because believers today are heirs of God’s covenant promise to Abraham (Galatians 3:29), this promise blesses believers and others through us, too. Deuteronomy 8:18 says: “But remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms His covenant, which He swore to your forefathers, as it is today.” The reason God blesses us is the purpose of the original covenant promise—to bless others through us.
And God is glorified.
A steward is someone who manages people, like a warden, supervisor or guardian. It could also be someone who manages resources, like a park ranger. Stewardship is a word describing the personal management of God’s wealth. Blessings of money, blessings of talent, even blessings of natural gifts all need to be stewarded shrewdly so that they’re not wasted. Christian assignment is to steward covenant-promised blessings wisely so that others are blessed through us.
And God is glorified.
Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35). But isn’t it true that it is only because God has given to us that we’re able to give? We are, therefore, obligated to bless someone else! Let’s never forget the source of our blessings: it is God who allows us to work and be productive. God gives us the power to earn money!
How people spend their money is a personal matter between them and the Lord. Handling money prudently is difficult for many people. The lesson, linked below, shows Biblical wisdom for the proper use of money.
Take Home Nugget
Money is a huge issue. The same God of creation, who promises to provide for all of our needs, also teaches us how to handle money sensibly—and to bless others, bringing God glory.
When blessings flow through us to others, God expands our role as givers—allowing us to keep on giving.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Circle Promise
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Genesis 12:2-3
“I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
When God makes a promise, it’s by covenant. The opening Scripture is God’s oath to Abraham: a promise with a guarantee. The principle of this covenant is the expansion of God’s kingdom rule through His servants—beginning with Abraham. The guarantee is shown that Abraham has been a blessing to all peoples on earth. As father of Ishmael, (who fathered the Arab nations), and father to Isaac, (the father of the Jewish and Judeo-Christian nations), God’s promise of blessing Abraham expanded to bring blessings to us through Abraham.
And God is glorified.
Because believers today are heirs of God’s covenant promise to Abraham (Galatians 3:29), this promise blesses believers and others through us, too. Deuteronomy 8:18 says: “But remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms His covenant, which He swore to your forefathers, as it is today.” The reason God blesses us is the purpose of the original covenant promise—to bless others through us.
And God is glorified.
A steward is someone who manages people, like a warden, supervisor or guardian. It could also be someone who manages resources, like a park ranger. Stewardship is a word describing the personal management of God’s wealth. Blessings of money, blessings of talent, even blessings of natural gifts all need to be stewarded shrewdly so that they’re not wasted. Christian assignment is to steward covenant-promised blessings wisely so that others are blessed through us.
And God is glorified.
Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35). But isn’t it true that it is only because God has given to us that we’re able to give? We are, therefore, obligated to bless someone else! Let’s never forget the source of our blessings: it is God who allows us to work and be productive. God gives us the power to earn money!
How people spend their money is a personal matter between them and the Lord. Handling money prudently is difficult for many people. The lesson, linked below, shows Biblical wisdom for the proper use of money.
Take Home Nugget
Money is a huge issue. The same God of creation, who promises to provide for all of our needs, also teaches us how to handle money sensibly—and to bless others, bringing God glory.
When blessings flow through us to others, God expands our role as givers—allowing us to keep on giving.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Circle Promise
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, May 24, 2013
Crafty Wiley Serpent
CRAFTY WILEY SERPENT
Genesis 3:1
“Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden?’”
“Did your parents forbid you to go to my party?” Michael’s friend asked. The fourteen year olds planned to go to a baseball game, but Michael was grounded. (See Magnificent Grace and God’s Ways=Best devotions).
Michael popped the top off a can of blue paint. He replied, “Mom and dad didn’t even know about your party. I made the stupid decision to attend, and won’t disobey my parents again.”
Good for you, Michael. The devil has a three-fold agenda. His plan is to drive believers away from God, stop their Spiritual growth, and minimize their impact on others for God’s kingdom. Because Satan knows people’s weaknesses, he uses different tactics to gain advantage in believer’s lives. Among them are the elements of surprise, bait whatever attracts attention, and smokescreens that disguise danger, tricking people to fall into temptation.
Satan is persistent. If he can’t get someone to sin one way, he’ll attack from a different angle. That’s why it’s so important for believers to be armed with an abiding friendship with Jesus, our safe haven. Belief in God makes faith a shield during daily warfare. God’s Word extinguishes Satan’s fiery arrows. Don’t forget, the devil declares war on believers every day.
The Lord God is holy; Satan is pure evil. It’s believers’ job to learn how to react to temptation. Because the enemy wants to steal your joy as God’s kid, he’ll stop at nothing to accuse you of wrong doing. It begins in the mind. Forgiven children of God—those who believe in God’s Son Jesus—are seen as righteous before the Father (2 Corinthians 5:21). But the devil reminds you of past mistakes that Jesus has already paid for. They’re forgiven AND forgotten in God’s eyes (Psalm 103:12). Don’t grieve over forgiven sins. Let them go!
The devil is an evil enemy bent on stealing your joy in Christ. Run to Jesus, and He’ll help you overcome the devil. He’s both able and eager to bring you victory. Remember: “Greater is He who is in you [Holy Spirit] than he who is in the world!” (1 John 4:4).
Take Home Nugget
“So, you’re just going to paint this wall blue, instead of hanging out with your buds all weekend?” Michael’s friend asked.
“Yep, that’s exactly my plan!” Michael answered.
Holy, faithful Father, Thank You that You won’t let me be tempted beyond my ability to resist—AND offer me another way out so that I can stand tall during this trial! In Jesus’ precious name and authority, AMEN.
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND, USA!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Crafty Wiley Serpent
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Genesis 3:1
“Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden?’”
“Did your parents forbid you to go to my party?” Michael’s friend asked. The fourteen year olds planned to go to a baseball game, but Michael was grounded. (See Magnificent Grace and God’s Ways=Best devotions).
Michael popped the top off a can of blue paint. He replied, “Mom and dad didn’t even know about your party. I made the stupid decision to attend, and won’t disobey my parents again.”
Good for you, Michael. The devil has a three-fold agenda. His plan is to drive believers away from God, stop their Spiritual growth, and minimize their impact on others for God’s kingdom. Because Satan knows people’s weaknesses, he uses different tactics to gain advantage in believer’s lives. Among them are the elements of surprise, bait whatever attracts attention, and smokescreens that disguise danger, tricking people to fall into temptation.
Satan is persistent. If he can’t get someone to sin one way, he’ll attack from a different angle. That’s why it’s so important for believers to be armed with an abiding friendship with Jesus, our safe haven. Belief in God makes faith a shield during daily warfare. God’s Word extinguishes Satan’s fiery arrows. Don’t forget, the devil declares war on believers every day.
The Lord God is holy; Satan is pure evil. It’s believers’ job to learn how to react to temptation. Because the enemy wants to steal your joy as God’s kid, he’ll stop at nothing to accuse you of wrong doing. It begins in the mind. Forgiven children of God—those who believe in God’s Son Jesus—are seen as righteous before the Father (2 Corinthians 5:21). But the devil reminds you of past mistakes that Jesus has already paid for. They’re forgiven AND forgotten in God’s eyes (Psalm 103:12). Don’t grieve over forgiven sins. Let them go!
The devil is an evil enemy bent on stealing your joy in Christ. Run to Jesus, and He’ll help you overcome the devil. He’s both able and eager to bring you victory. Remember: “Greater is He who is in you [Holy Spirit] than he who is in the world!” (1 John 4:4).
Take Home Nugget
“So, you’re just going to paint this wall blue, instead of hanging out with your buds all weekend?” Michael’s friend asked.
“Yep, that’s exactly my plan!” Michael answered.
Holy, faithful Father, Thank You that You won’t let me be tempted beyond my ability to resist—AND offer me another way out so that I can stand tall during this trial! In Jesus’ precious name and authority, AMEN.
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND, USA!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Crafty Wiley Serpent
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
God's Ways=Best
GOD’S WAYS=BEST
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
“Why did you go to the party, Mike?” ten hear old Jeremy asked his big brother (see Magnificent Grace devotion).
“I figured that I could just pop in, say ‘Hi,’ and return before you’d notice that I was gone. You were busy playing video games.”
The boys were sanding a wall that had been repaired in their recreation room. (Mom told them she had chores for them to do, to work off their disobedience that night). Michael snuck out for an hour without asking God for guidance. He didn’t even tell his little brother! Michael’s ways are not God’s ways. Neither are ours.
Jesus’ followers are to submit to His plan for our lives. God’s ways are always the best. We’re to set aside our agendas and focus on our relationship with Jesus. How can we lead God-pleasing lives? Give God our attention.
Where do people learn what pleases God? The Bible is the best place to learn God’s ways. Book of Instruction Before Leaving Earth guides us in all situations. We’re to follow the steps given, confident that God answers prayer. Heed God’s instructions.
The Lord takes responsibility for lives that are committed to Him. He provides everything we need to follow His instructions. We’re to base all our actions and decisions on Philippians 4:13: “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” When we “lean on our own understanding,” our ‘feelings’ betray our ability to follow God’s ways. God’s provision is always adequate.
Every day brings people new choices. What to wear, what to eat, how to respond are decisions we make without thinking twice. Maybe it’s time to include God in every decision, so that He will “make your paths straight.” That means God removes every barrier that hinders reaching your appointed goal, your victory.
The very areas of life that we protect with a “Hand’s Off” sign (where not even God is welcome), are what we need to entrust to God the most. Today is the perfect time to choose victory by handing over to God the keys that drive your heart.
Take Home Nugget
Michael and Jeremy’s mom gave them a broom and dust pan. “Clean up the mess you made by sanding the wall. Tomorrow you can paint the wall blue. Won’t that be fun?”
“How long will it be before we’ve ‘worked out our disobedience,’ Mom?” Michael asked.
“Soon!” was her happy reply.
I Did It God’s Way is the tune victorious believers sing to a world that brags about independent living.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for God’s Ways=Best
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
“Why did you go to the party, Mike?” ten hear old Jeremy asked his big brother (see Magnificent Grace devotion).
“I figured that I could just pop in, say ‘Hi,’ and return before you’d notice that I was gone. You were busy playing video games.”
The boys were sanding a wall that had been repaired in their recreation room. (Mom told them she had chores for them to do, to work off their disobedience that night). Michael snuck out for an hour without asking God for guidance. He didn’t even tell his little brother! Michael’s ways are not God’s ways. Neither are ours.
Jesus’ followers are to submit to His plan for our lives. God’s ways are always the best. We’re to set aside our agendas and focus on our relationship with Jesus. How can we lead God-pleasing lives? Give God our attention.
Where do people learn what pleases God? The Bible is the best place to learn God’s ways. Book of Instruction Before Leaving Earth guides us in all situations. We’re to follow the steps given, confident that God answers prayer. Heed God’s instructions.
The Lord takes responsibility for lives that are committed to Him. He provides everything we need to follow His instructions. We’re to base all our actions and decisions on Philippians 4:13: “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” When we “lean on our own understanding,” our ‘feelings’ betray our ability to follow God’s ways. God’s provision is always adequate.
Every day brings people new choices. What to wear, what to eat, how to respond are decisions we make without thinking twice. Maybe it’s time to include God in every decision, so that He will “make your paths straight.” That means God removes every barrier that hinders reaching your appointed goal, your victory.
The very areas of life that we protect with a “Hand’s Off” sign (where not even God is welcome), are what we need to entrust to God the most. Today is the perfect time to choose victory by handing over to God the keys that drive your heart.
Take Home Nugget
Michael and Jeremy’s mom gave them a broom and dust pan. “Clean up the mess you made by sanding the wall. Tomorrow you can paint the wall blue. Won’t that be fun?”
“How long will it be before we’ve ‘worked out our disobedience,’ Mom?” Michael asked.
“Soon!” was her happy reply.
I Did It God’s Way is the tune victorious believers sing to a world that brags about independent living.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for God’s Ways=Best
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Magnificent Grace
MAGNIFICENT GRACE
Luke 15:20
“So he got up and went to his father [the boy who squandered away his inheritance in Restored by Grace devotional series]. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”
Ten year old Jeremy took off down the street on his bike looking for his fourteen year old brother Michael. Soon, blaring music lured Jeremy straight to Michael’s friend’s house. Jeremy wandered through an open front door.
The smell of weed wafted to Jeremy’s nose. He saw Michael throwing darts, drinking from a bottle of beer. When Michael saw his little brother, he put the beer down on the floor. Michal said, “Just one hour, and we’ll go home.”
Just then, the police stormed inside the house. “Everyone stay put!” The officer ordered the teen aged crowd. At the police station, Michael and Jeremy were questioned, “Where are your parents?”
The boys waited on straight baked chairs. “What do you think mom and dad will do?” Jeremy wondered aloud.
“I don’t know, but I am in hot water!” Michael admitted.
That’s exactly what the boy who frittered away his inheritance thought, too. Would the guys lose family rights, like being disowned by the parents because of their dreadful sins? Fortunately, Luke 15 11-24 shows us exactly what happens when God’s kids mess up—then return home to confess sin. It doesn’t matter how far we wandered away, or for how long, believers in Christ are guaranteed restoration into God’s family. Grace greets wayward Christians with forgiveness and compassion.
Why? a believer might inquire. For sure, no person can earn grace. Forgiveness and restoration comes from believers’ relationship with Jesus. Grace never comes from performance, good deeds, or even the right words of apology. What’s important is our position in, relationship to, and belief in Christ. When the Father sees that we belong to His Son, He forgives us every sin we confess.
What’s even more awesome is that we’re forgiven even before we return to God! That’s magnificent grace. Magnificent grace is a reason to celebrate. Our Father is waiting to welcome His kids home.
Take Home Nugget
“Michael! Jeremy!” two parents called out. “We were young once,” their dad said, his hand on Michael’s shoulder. “What do you have to say for yourselves?”
Michael began, “It’s my fault, Dad. Jeremy had nothing to do with this.”
Their mom hugged Jeremy. “You’re alright, that’s what matters. “Boys, I have some chores for you to do that will pay for this foolishness!”
Grace is so magnificent that nothing humans do can will disown those who’re united with Christ.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Magnificent Grace
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study resources click here.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Jailer's Adoption
JAILER’S ADOPTION
Third of Three in Restored by Grace devotional series
Luke 15:31-32
“‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”
Hopi asked Paul, “Did the dad have other kids?”
Paul answered, “Yes, and the older son was angry that dad threw a banquet for the son who wasted his inheritance on wild living.”
“I see his point.” Hopi said.
“This is where you come in, Hopi.” Paul said, smiling.
“Me? What do you mean?”
“Our heavenly Father wants no one to be turned away from His family. His invitation is given to everyone. The son who returned home broke is as welcome as a new kid who comes to the Father now. Both were “lost, and are now found.” Father God celebrates every kid he adopts into His family.”
“But what about the kids who are already in Father God’s family?”
“Like me?” Paul asked.
“Yeah. Won’t you be jealous if your Father adopts me as His kid?”
“No, man!” Paul explained, “The the whole point of spreading the gospel of Christ is to bring people into God’s family!”
“This is the conflict your church in Philippi is arguing over: grace vs. the law. And I am not a Jew. Am I even allowed into your Father’s family?” Hopi reminded Paul (See Eye on the Ball devotion).
“Of course, Hopi. You see, Jesus died for the forgiveness of people’s sins. Everyone who believes in Him, becomes a child of God. The law has no power over grace where people’s salvation is concerned. Eternal life is given to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ." (John 3:16).
“And the Father—just like the dad of that son who returned home broke—celebrates every new believer of Jesus?” Hopi asked, getting excited.
“Yes He does!” Paul suddenly got serious. He looked deeply into Hopi’s eyes. He said, “Are you ready to repent of your sins, and accept Jesus Christ as Lord of your life? If so, let me baptize you right now!”
Take Home Nugget
The deepest immersion in prison was a bucket of water. Surrounded by watching prisoners, Paul dunked Hopi’s head under the water, then lifted it out. “I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. You’ve been buried with Christ and rose to a new life in Him. Welcome to God’s family!” Paul announced.
Holy Father, Let your kids form relationships with others, who want salvation, peace, and joy in Christ. Let us be Your witnesses to the world, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Jailer’s Adoption
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Third of Three in Restored by Grace devotional series
Luke 15:31-32
“‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”
Hopi asked Paul, “Did the dad have other kids?”
Paul answered, “Yes, and the older son was angry that dad threw a banquet for the son who wasted his inheritance on wild living.”
“I see his point.” Hopi said.
“This is where you come in, Hopi.” Paul said, smiling.
“Me? What do you mean?”
“Our heavenly Father wants no one to be turned away from His family. His invitation is given to everyone. The son who returned home broke is as welcome as a new kid who comes to the Father now. Both were “lost, and are now found.” Father God celebrates every kid he adopts into His family.”
“But what about the kids who are already in Father God’s family?”
“Like me?” Paul asked.
“Yeah. Won’t you be jealous if your Father adopts me as His kid?”
“No, man!” Paul explained, “The the whole point of spreading the gospel of Christ is to bring people into God’s family!”
“This is the conflict your church in Philippi is arguing over: grace vs. the law. And I am not a Jew. Am I even allowed into your Father’s family?” Hopi reminded Paul (See Eye on the Ball devotion).
“Of course, Hopi. You see, Jesus died for the forgiveness of people’s sins. Everyone who believes in Him, becomes a child of God. The law has no power over grace where people’s salvation is concerned. Eternal life is given to everyone who believes in Jesus Christ." (John 3:16).
“And the Father—just like the dad of that son who returned home broke—celebrates every new believer of Jesus?” Hopi asked, getting excited.
“Yes He does!” Paul suddenly got serious. He looked deeply into Hopi’s eyes. He said, “Are you ready to repent of your sins, and accept Jesus Christ as Lord of your life? If so, let me baptize you right now!”
Take Home Nugget
The deepest immersion in prison was a bucket of water. Surrounded by watching prisoners, Paul dunked Hopi’s head under the water, then lifted it out. “I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. You’ve been buried with Christ and rose to a new life in Him. Welcome to God’s family!” Paul announced.
Holy Father, Let your kids form relationships with others, who want salvation, peace, and joy in Christ. Let us be Your witnesses to the world, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Jailer’s Adoption
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, May 10, 2013
Jailer's Lesson
JAILER’S LESSON
Second of Three in Restored by Grace devotional series
Galatians 6:1
“Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you may also be tempted.”
“Independence is a highly-valued worldly quality, Hopi,” Apostle Paul said, “as is personal freedom. People enjoy being self-sufficient, proud to never need help from others for a successful life. But when people depend only on themselves—and fail—despair moves in.”
Hopi scratched his chin, admitting, “I see your point.”
“Their independence and freedom are as useless as their pride, when they’re hungry.” Paul said. “And that’s when sin creeps into a person’s life.”
“I don’t sin.” Hopi insisted.
“But of course you sin, Hopi.” Paul said, putting his arm around the jailer’s shoulder. “We all sin. Every time we act outside of God’s will, we sin. Desire creeps inside our minds—almost without our knowledge. When we grasp that desire, we make a decision. Just like the boy’s going off on his own (see Jailer’s Intrigue devotion), he deceived himself that he knew better than his dad.”
“I see what you mean.” Hopi agreed, nodding his head.
“It’s hard to admit defeat, though.” Paul said. “The boy wanted to steal the corn cobs he fed the pigs! How awful—especially for a Jewish person—to be taking care of pigs! Pigs are not kosher, not acceptable food for Jews. You can imagine the boy’s despair when he realized how far he had sunk. He must have thrown his hands up in the air, frantically searching for anything to eat.”
The boy was so depressed that he found only one solution to his problem—return home. Desperate, the boy trudged home with his head low and a sour taste in his mouth.”
“I see how easily that happens,” Hopi admitted.
Paul said with a smile breaking out on his face, “But my story doesn’t end there. When the boy decided to return home so that he could eat, he was surprised. Do you remember?”
“Ahhh.” Hopi said, smiling. “I remember that the dad welcomed the son back by throwing him a banquet. That sure wasn’t the end of the story I imagined. After they son blew his entire inheritance on wild living, and sulked home broke, I figured that dad would have disowned him. Throw him out! Or at least, disinherit him, cutting him off from all favor.”
“That’s the difference between earthly dads and our Father in heaven!” Paul revealed. “Now, would you like to join the family of God?”
Take Home Nugget
The lesson, linked below, shows how we can all live in God’s Spirit, as God’s kids.
Sowing life in God’s Spirit reaps God’s kids eternal life.
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL YOU WHO TEACH GOOD LESSONS TO YOUR CHILDREN
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Jailer’s Lesson
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Second of Three in Restored by Grace devotional series
Galatians 6:1
“Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you may also be tempted.”
“Independence is a highly-valued worldly quality, Hopi,” Apostle Paul said, “as is personal freedom. People enjoy being self-sufficient, proud to never need help from others for a successful life. But when people depend only on themselves—and fail—despair moves in.”
Hopi scratched his chin, admitting, “I see your point.”
“Their independence and freedom are as useless as their pride, when they’re hungry.” Paul said. “And that’s when sin creeps into a person’s life.”
“I don’t sin.” Hopi insisted.
“But of course you sin, Hopi.” Paul said, putting his arm around the jailer’s shoulder. “We all sin. Every time we act outside of God’s will, we sin. Desire creeps inside our minds—almost without our knowledge. When we grasp that desire, we make a decision. Just like the boy’s going off on his own (see Jailer’s Intrigue devotion), he deceived himself that he knew better than his dad.”
“I see what you mean.” Hopi agreed, nodding his head.
“It’s hard to admit defeat, though.” Paul said. “The boy wanted to steal the corn cobs he fed the pigs! How awful—especially for a Jewish person—to be taking care of pigs! Pigs are not kosher, not acceptable food for Jews. You can imagine the boy’s despair when he realized how far he had sunk. He must have thrown his hands up in the air, frantically searching for anything to eat.”
The boy was so depressed that he found only one solution to his problem—return home. Desperate, the boy trudged home with his head low and a sour taste in his mouth.”
“I see how easily that happens,” Hopi admitted.
Paul said with a smile breaking out on his face, “But my story doesn’t end there. When the boy decided to return home so that he could eat, he was surprised. Do you remember?”
“Ahhh.” Hopi said, smiling. “I remember that the dad welcomed the son back by throwing him a banquet. That sure wasn’t the end of the story I imagined. After they son blew his entire inheritance on wild living, and sulked home broke, I figured that dad would have disowned him. Throw him out! Or at least, disinherit him, cutting him off from all favor.”
“That’s the difference between earthly dads and our Father in heaven!” Paul revealed. “Now, would you like to join the family of God?”
Take Home Nugget
The lesson, linked below, shows how we can all live in God’s Spirit, as God’s kids.
Sowing life in God’s Spirit reaps God’s kids eternal life.
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL YOU WHO TEACH GOOD LESSONS TO YOUR CHILDREN
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Jailer’s Lesson
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Jailer's Intrigue
JAILER’S INTRIGUE
First of Three in Restored by Grace devotional series
Luke 15:11-24
Verse 18: “I will set out and go back to my Father and say to him: ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.’”
Apostle Paul was in prison (again). One jailer named Hopi befriended Paul. He brought Paul a new quill, so that he could write letters. Paul’s letters in the Bible are called epistles. Most epistles went to the churches Paul founded, and to his “brothers” in Christ, like Timothy and Titus.
Hopi challenged Paul, “I am proud to be a free, independent man. How did you, a (former) Pharisee, become chained to this Jesus? (See Eyes on the Ball devotion). You’re not free, Paul, you’re in prison!”
Paul smiled. He said, “You’re right that I am in chains for Christ. But you’re wrong that I am not free! Jesus says, ‘So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.’” (John 8:36). “You see, I used to persecute Christians. Then Jesus called me out, and I learned that He really IS the Son of God! He died for me; and I owe Him everything.”
“I’m in chains to no one!” Hopi said.
Paul placed a hand on Hopi’s shoulder. “Ha. You just don’t realize it. Let me tell you a story.”
“A story?” Hopi wondered.
Paul began, “There was once a boy who was son to a very rich man. One day he asked his dad for his inheritance so that he could go out and see the world.” (You know how some people are restless, before settling down?) “Well, the dad gave him his inheritance, and he took off.”
“What did the boy find?” Hopi asked.
“Truth, Hopi.” Paul said. “After partying away all the money, the boy was broke. And hungry. So he got a job slopping pigs. He drooled over the pig’s corn cobs, he was so hungry. Then he figured it out.”
“Did he get a better job?” Hopi asked.
“Nope. He rode home to apologize to his dad.”
“That was the wrong thing to do.” Hopi was sure.
“You’re wrong, Hopi. It was the best thing he could have done!” Paul said. “His dad ran out to greet his son; he was so glad to see him return! He got the servants to dress him in the best clothes, and threw his son a banquet.”
“WOW! That’s the kind of dad I want.” Hopi confessed.
Take Home Nugget
“Now you’re getting it, Hopi. Let me introduce you to Jesus. When you believe in Him, you’ll be a son of the Father, too!” Paul said.
Those who think they’re free are really in chains. Those who are in chains to Christ, are free indeed.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Jailer’s Intrigue
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
First of Three in Restored by Grace devotional series
Luke 15:11-24
Verse 18: “I will set out and go back to my Father and say to him: ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.’”
Apostle Paul was in prison (again). One jailer named Hopi befriended Paul. He brought Paul a new quill, so that he could write letters. Paul’s letters in the Bible are called epistles. Most epistles went to the churches Paul founded, and to his “brothers” in Christ, like Timothy and Titus.
Hopi challenged Paul, “I am proud to be a free, independent man. How did you, a (former) Pharisee, become chained to this Jesus? (See Eyes on the Ball devotion). You’re not free, Paul, you’re in prison!”
Paul smiled. He said, “You’re right that I am in chains for Christ. But you’re wrong that I am not free! Jesus says, ‘So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.’” (John 8:36). “You see, I used to persecute Christians. Then Jesus called me out, and I learned that He really IS the Son of God! He died for me; and I owe Him everything.”
“I’m in chains to no one!” Hopi said.
Paul placed a hand on Hopi’s shoulder. “Ha. You just don’t realize it. Let me tell you a story.”
“A story?” Hopi wondered.
Paul began, “There was once a boy who was son to a very rich man. One day he asked his dad for his inheritance so that he could go out and see the world.” (You know how some people are restless, before settling down?) “Well, the dad gave him his inheritance, and he took off.”
“What did the boy find?” Hopi asked.
“Truth, Hopi.” Paul said. “After partying away all the money, the boy was broke. And hungry. So he got a job slopping pigs. He drooled over the pig’s corn cobs, he was so hungry. Then he figured it out.”
“Did he get a better job?” Hopi asked.
“Nope. He rode home to apologize to his dad.”
“That was the wrong thing to do.” Hopi was sure.
“You’re wrong, Hopi. It was the best thing he could have done!” Paul said. “His dad ran out to greet his son; he was so glad to see him return! He got the servants to dress him in the best clothes, and threw his son a banquet.”
“WOW! That’s the kind of dad I want.” Hopi confessed.
Take Home Nugget
“Now you’re getting it, Hopi. Let me introduce you to Jesus. When you believe in Him, you’ll be a son of the Father, too!” Paul said.
Those who think they’re free are really in chains. Those who are in chains to Christ, are free indeed.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Jailer’s Intrigue
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, May 3, 2013
Eye on the Ball (Dealing with Criticism and Conflict)
EYE ON THE BALL
(Dealing with Criticism and Conflict)
Philippians 1:12-29
Verse 27-28: “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.”
“Here’s a different quill, Paul.” the jailer said, handing him a freshly plucked goose feather. “What’s so urgent that you’re frantically writing letters day after day?”
“Thank you!” Apostle Paul said, smiling. He stroked the feathered quill, then loaded it with new ink. “I’m sending messages to the church I began in Philippi. Hopi, you have no idea how fast people drift away from loving each other!”
“What their problem?” Hopi asked.
“Apparently, preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles sparked a war!” Paul put his hands over his face. “Leading a church is like parenting bad children!” he confessed to his jailer. “Their angry quarrelling exploded into tense conflict. Some aren’t even speaking to those who oppose their view!
“This is not how Christians show Christ’s love to the world. I write frantically quoting Scripture that shows them God’s grace. God’s grace flows out to believers who’re redeemed by Christ’s shed blood. Grace is infinite love, shown by God’s infinite kindness and goodness,” Paul explained. “And grace is another thing they don’t get!”
“What don’t they get about grace?” Hopi asked.
“They won’t let the law go, Hopi! Salvation comes from believing in Jesus; not by obeying the law. They want to EARN salvation! It just doesn’t work that way. Christ’s death is the last sacrifice for forgiveness of sins. His shed blood on the cross paid our sin debt in full.
“So, who cares that others preach this saving gospel of Christ? Christ is being spread around the world—and that’s what counts!”
Hopi said, “Oh, they lost sight of the gospel ball.”
Paul clapped Hopi on the back. “That’s exactly right! They need to keep their eyes on preaching Christ. Christ’s gospel is the ball that we’re throwing around the world!”
Take Home Nugget
Paul’s jailers learned about Jesus. Paul was not free to visit the church that was in trouble, but he never stopped preaching. Paul’s positive attitude reminded the people how to keep their eyes on the ball of showing the world the risen Savior.
Like Apostle Paul, we too, are just passing through. But while here, we have a God-sized job to do.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Eye on the Ball
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
(Dealing with Criticism and Conflict)
Philippians 1:12-29
Verse 27-28: “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.”
“Here’s a different quill, Paul.” the jailer said, handing him a freshly plucked goose feather. “What’s so urgent that you’re frantically writing letters day after day?”
“Thank you!” Apostle Paul said, smiling. He stroked the feathered quill, then loaded it with new ink. “I’m sending messages to the church I began in Philippi. Hopi, you have no idea how fast people drift away from loving each other!”
“What their problem?” Hopi asked.
“Apparently, preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles sparked a war!” Paul put his hands over his face. “Leading a church is like parenting bad children!” he confessed to his jailer. “Their angry quarrelling exploded into tense conflict. Some aren’t even speaking to those who oppose their view!
“This is not how Christians show Christ’s love to the world. I write frantically quoting Scripture that shows them God’s grace. God’s grace flows out to believers who’re redeemed by Christ’s shed blood. Grace is infinite love, shown by God’s infinite kindness and goodness,” Paul explained. “And grace is another thing they don’t get!”
“What don’t they get about grace?” Hopi asked.
“They won’t let the law go, Hopi! Salvation comes from believing in Jesus; not by obeying the law. They want to EARN salvation! It just doesn’t work that way. Christ’s death is the last sacrifice for forgiveness of sins. His shed blood on the cross paid our sin debt in full.
“So, who cares that others preach this saving gospel of Christ? Christ is being spread around the world—and that’s what counts!”
Hopi said, “Oh, they lost sight of the gospel ball.”
Paul clapped Hopi on the back. “That’s exactly right! They need to keep their eyes on preaching Christ. Christ’s gospel is the ball that we’re throwing around the world!”
Take Home Nugget
Paul’s jailers learned about Jesus. Paul was not free to visit the church that was in trouble, but he never stopped preaching. Paul’s positive attitude reminded the people how to keep their eyes on the ball of showing the world the risen Savior.
Like Apostle Paul, we too, are just passing through. But while here, we have a God-sized job to do.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Eye on the Ball
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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