Genesis Class .....Following The Lord..Caring for Each Other Sundays @ 9:30 Room 29

Lesson

2009-01-18T06:16:00.000-08:00

1/18/2009

We had the 2nd lesson from the Love Dare Series. More stories on how we met - then a lively conversation regarding "He said/She said" We are lucky to have many different opinions.

Have a great week!

April

Lesson

2008-09-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

The Lost Virtue of Happiness Chapter 2 : Gaining Happiness by Losing Your Life
1. Consider the Ordinary Life VS. the Kingdom Life
The gospels say that if you are living an ordinary human life, you are trying to control what is going on instead of living a Kingdom life where you let God take control of your life. An ordinary life is one of loneliness, longing for something missing, confinement and despair.The Kingdom life is a life of love, peace, self-control and virtue. We discussed how there is a constant struggle for us to live the kingdom life. We are somewhere between ordinary and kingdom hopefully moving closer to the kingdom life.
2. Read John 12:23-26. If you love the ordinary life, you will lose it. If you hate the ordinary life, you will gain eternal life.
3. Are you living a Kingdom life that is worth fighting for and worth dying for? If you're fighting for the kingdom life, you are living as a role model. There are too many wars/conflicts to list where people have died and are dying for the kingdom of God.
4. Consider the following passages:Mark 8:35, Matthew 16:25, Luke 9:24, Matthew 10:39, Luke 17:33So, how do we fight for the life that Jesus is speaking of? We must give it all to God. We must Trust God and give up our control.
5. What do you think about the author's statement that "few Christians in the Western church today role model this spiritual maturity?
6. Consider these scriptures:Romans 6:11-13, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Colossians 3:5, 1 Timothy 4:7-8, Romans 12:1.
Sin must no longer rule your mortal body. Sin must not be your master. We must be a "living sacrifice to God dedicated to His service and pleasing Him".
7. What are the roles of solitude and silence in allowing us to "keep our earthly steps synchronized with the Father's Heart." Remember that Jesus deliberately and purposefully made time to be alone with God the Father. Even though Jesus knew that God was always with Him, He also knew that taking time to just be alone with God was part of the spiritual growth that we all need.
We all need to take time daily to practice solitude and silence with God whether it is alone in the car, on a walk, or taking a "retreat".
See you next Sunday for Chapters 3 & 4.

Beth Upton

Lesson

2008-09-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

9/14/08
Stewardship Campaign:The tent service is coming up on November 9th.
The Power of One is the foundation for the campain this year.
Consider the following Bible verses and the questions regarding the verses as we get closer to that date:
Ephesians 2:10 What does God want for us in our lives?
John 15:5 What does it mean to have a living union in Christ?
James 1:17 Every Gift we have comes from God. How do we use our gifts for the glory of God?

Teachers for 2009:Julie needs helpers to teach Sunday School next year.
Please prayerfully consider teaching once a month.

See you all next week as we cover Chapter 2 in the Lost Virtue of Happiness.

Beth Upton

Lesson

2008-09-07T17:58:00.000-07:00

9/8/08
Today's lesson is from Chapter 1 of the book, "The Lost Virtue of Happiness" by Moreland & Issler. You can purchase the book for $10 during Sunday School.
Chapter 1 Today's Confusion About Happiness
Julie led us in a great discussion about the differences between Contemporary Happiness vs. Classical Happiness.
Have we forgotten how to live?
Do we forget to seek joy and bring joy into our lives?
What is your definition of happiness? peacefulness, satisfaction, contentment
The Dictionary defines happiness as: "a sense of pleasurable satisfaction"This definition has had a subtle shift over the last 100 years.
Are we obsessed with being happy?
Are we too consumed with the things we "need"
Matthew 6:33 says ... Seek His righteousness & all of these things will be given to you as well...
In today's consumer culture, instant gratification drives our happiness or at least what we think will make us happy.
Contemporary happiness is more selfish, temporary, short lived and based on individual outcome.
That is not to say that we cannot enjoy being a consumer, but that we cannot be distracted by idoletry, addiction, selfish acts in order to find that happiness.
Classical Happiness is a life well lived, a life of virtue and character, a life that manifests wisdom, kindness & goodness.
How do you take your "happiness temperature"?
What defines your happiness?
Contrasting Views of Happiness
Contemporary Happiness:
Intense Feeling, transitory & fleeting - Intense Highs & Lows; Dependent on external circumstances - recognition/rewards; addictive & enslaving - what's next? Split off, empty self - want more for self, strategy: achieved by self-absorbed narcissism.
Outcome: success = celebrity.
Classical Happiness:
A settled tone - steady; Springs from within - satisfaction; More permanent & stable - calm peacefulness; Empowering and liberating - happy with what you have; Integrated, creates true self - wanting more for others, acheived by self-denying apprenticeship to Jesus.
Outcome: Success produces a Hero.

Have a great week,

Beth Upton

Lesson

2008-08-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

SO, You Want to Be Like Christ?
Eight Essentials to Get You There
By: Charles Swindoll

He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose…Jim Elliot

Sacrifice

· The diamond at the top of the heap of gems of discipline we have been studying
· Distinguishes the Son of God from all mere historical figures
· Identifies Him as Savior

1. Consider the story Through the Gates of Splendor, the story of five martyred missionaries as the attempted to make contact with and evangelize the Auca Indians of Ecuador The story was read by members of the class. Synopsis of the story:Set in the Basin of Ecuador, the story tells of the Waodani, one of the most violent tribes the world has ever known. The primitive customs of this isolated tribe demanded that the Waodani kill not only their enemies and outsiders, but also their fellow tribes-people. Fueled by fearful superstition, they sometimes even buried their own children alive. The Waodani were the most violent society ever documented. Six of every 10 deaths of Waodani adults were homicides. In 1956, following a promising initial exchange, five young missionaries further attempted to make peaceful contact with the notorious tribe, but were brutally speared to death. However, the violent end of the missionaries' lives was only the beginning of the Waodani story. Shortly after the killings, the wife of one of the fallen men and the sister of another went into the jungle to live with the Waodani. Two years later their message of peace and forgiveness had transformed the tribe. The homicide rate fell by 90%. Nearly forty years after the death of his father, Steve Saint returned to the jungle to live with the killers of his father. His new life with the tribesmen answered many childhood questions about his father's death. The irony of the story is revealed as the very same Waodani, who killed the five missionaries in 1956, now share in their incredible story of how their lives--and those of their people--have been changed forever.Read at Read Romans 12:1 What is meant by a “living sacrifice”?
2. Read Ephesians 5:1-2 – Two ideas are placed side-by-side offering and sacrifice. Both involve giving p something, however an offering is a sacrifice with an added element, choice.Discuss sacrifices you have made for others, for God. What motivates your giving? Do you expect something in return? Gratitude, devotion, love?
3. Personal Sacifice: read Matthew 6: 19-33 What does Jesus say about hoarding? What does this scripture say about the choice of personal sacrifice? Who will we trust to meet our needs? Does anything in this scripture say that Jesus wants us to be poor? Are we able to give up good things that mean a lot to us? Why or why not?
4. Relational Sacrifice: read Genesis 22:3-12 – We are often hindered from giving up our treasures to the Lord out of fear for their safety. This is especially true when our treasures are our loved ones, relatives, and friends. But we need to have no such fears. Our Lord did not come to destroy but to save. Everything is safe that we commit to Him, and nothing is really safe which is not committed.Discuss letting go of our loved ones into God’s hands and Abraham’s letting go of Isaac. What makes relational sacrifice so hard? Is God really saying “ choose me. Sacrifice her. Sacrifice him?
5. What does Paul say about financial sacrifice in Philippians 4: 15-19?
6. Consider the role of discipline, Satan, acquaintances, and friends as you practice the discipline of sacrifice. Are they likely to help or hinder?

Isaiah 40:31…..but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not grow faint.

JoAnn

Lesson

2008-08-10T14:30:00.000-07:00

So You Want to be More Like Christ?
Eight Essentials to Get You There
By: Charles R. Swindoll

1. Intimacy: Deepening Our Lives
2. Simplicity: Uncluttering Our Minds
3. Silence and Solitude: Slowing Our Pace
4. Surrender: Releasing Our Grip
5. Prayer: Calling Out
6. Humility: Bowing Low
7. Self Control: Holding Back
Who ate the last gallon of ice cream?

· “I’ve eaten too much, interfered where I had no business meddling, and spoken when I should have remained silent. Those are pretty common problems, aren’t they? Universal in fact. We have all exceeded the bounds of wisdom by failing to restrain ourselves. We all suffer from the same ailment: lack of self control.”

Read Romans 7:14-25

Take a few minutes and make a list of common issues where we experience a lack of self-control and restraint.

Consider this paraphrase of Romans 7: 20-23 from Eugene Peterson.“Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time. It happens regularly that it’s predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God’s commands, but it’s pretty obvious that not all of me join sin that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.

Fritz Ridneour from How to be a Christian without being Religious: “Sometimes you’d almost swear you were a split personality, a regular walking civil war”.
· What is the role of Satan in our “civil war”?
Consider Proverbs 25:28 – “Like a city that is broken into and without walls is a man who has no control over his spirit.”Respond to the following: Failure to exercise self-control is an open invitation for Satan to rob us of all good things we receive from God.

· Remember Romans Chapters 7-8 and consider Galatians 5: 17-21.Consider this definition of “the flesh”.Discuss this concept in regards to our transformation as we except Christ’s saving grace and the significance of the Spirit of God living within us.Consider the harvest of the flesh which is sin versus the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23.
· Self-control leads to greater freedom. How is that possible? Consider and discuss this statement by Maxie Dunham: “The purpose of self-control is that we may be fit for God, fit for ourselves, and fit to be the servants of others….it is not a rigid, religious practice-discipline of discipline’s sake. It is not dull drudgery aimed at exterminating laughter and joy. It is the doorway to true joy, true liberation from stifling slavery of self-interest and fear.”
· Winning the “war” and “running the race” So how will we proceed? 1 Corinthians 9: 24-27What are the main points for us to absorb?Consider the prize, perishable or imperishable?Consider the freedom of self-control.Consider the focus of our race.Consider our very real adversary.Consider discipline and your body.Consider what we “preach” to others and our own disqualification.
· There is no greater example of self-control than Jesus. Consider the case set forth by Richard J. Foster:Have ever noticed the number of times Jesus refused to use power? He refused to dazzle people by jumping off the pinnacle of the temple (Matthew 4:5). He rejected the temptation to make more “wonder bread” to validate His ministry (John 6:26). He refused to do many wonderful works in His own hometown because of the belief of the people (Luke 4: 16-27). He said no to the Pharisees when they demanded he give them a sign to prove He was the Messiah (Matthew 12:38). At His arrest, Jesus said He could have summoned a whole army of angles but He did not (Matthew 26: 53).You want to be like Christ? Refuse to surrender to the flesh, surrender instead to the Spirit, and let Him live His life through you.

Jo Anne Robinson

Lesson

2008-08-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

8/3/08
Humility:Bowing Low
1Timothy 4:7Discipline yourself for the purpose of Godliness.Athletes, musicians, successful people are disciplined, driven, practice/train a lot, focused.

Philippians 3:10Humility not only as a virtue but a discipline.Humility is seen as a weakness to some people. However, it is a quietness, lack of self-centeredness, recognition/credit not sought. Jesus was very humble; however, He was not weak. He did not suffer low self-esteem or have insecurities. He knew exactly what his end result would be and understood the gifts that he received from God.

Genuinely Humble people have a natural inattention concerning their humility. They don't thnk of themselves as humble. As a matter of fact, they rarely think of themselves at all. They are not self-centered. They are "other-centered".

Three Lessons of Humility:
1. Mark 10:35-45 Jesus says "You don't understand what you are asking." Mark 8:34 Pick up your cross & follow Jesus.
2. Philippians 2:3-11 Humility grows out of gratitude.
3. 1Peter 5:5-7 Humility as an act of faith.

Sit, Stand, Bow
Sit on promoting ourselves
Stand up for others
Bow low before God

Have a great week and be "other-centered".

Beth U.

Lesson

2008-07-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

7/27/08

So, You Want to Be Like Christ
Eight Essentials to Get You There
Charles R. Swindoll

Prayer

Prayer is listening as well as speaking, receiving as well as asking and its deepest mood of friendship held in reverence. So the dialy prayer should end as it begins…in reverence.

Questions to Consider:
1. What is prayer? Communicating with God?, connecting with God in order to transfer His will into your life? Collaborating with God to accomplish His goals?
2. Read Matthew 6: 5-8 Are there things that prayer is not? Should prayer be bargaining or pleading? AN attempt to change God’s mind? Or an attempt to manipulate God? Should prayer be a wish list to a genie? Is prayer a proving ground for piety? Should prayer be meaningless repetition? Is prayer a last resort in our lives or a first response?
3. Read 1 Timothy 2:1-2; Acts 2:42; Acts 4:24; Acts 6:4 What priority did Paul urge Timothy to give prayer? (first, first, first). In Acts 2:42 what are the four cornerstones of the early church? What priority did the early church give to prayer?
4. Consider the following passage…. The stress from worry drains our energy and preoccupies our minds, stripping us of our peace. Few in God’s family are exempt. We fret over big things and little things. Some of us have a laundry list of concerns that feed our addictions to worry. Anxiety has become a favorite pastime that we love to hate.

Read Matthew 6:27 and Philippians 4:4-7

Discuss prayer as the “cure for worry” and honestly consider how successfully you use prayer to bring peace into your day. Consider 1 Thessalonians 5:17. If prayer is an easy or simple solution to worry would we be reminded to “pray without ceasing”? Do we perhaps need the persistence of prayer in order to relieve anxieties, worries, and tensions?

Perils of Promises and Prayer
Peril of Irresponsibility – is prayer a substitute for human responsibility?
Peril of Misperceptions – do your prayers reflect an awesome , sovereign God or merely a kind, old man?
Peril of Overcommitment – do we postpone prayer due to a busy schedule and miss the “investment” of prayer?
Peril of Oversimplification –have we reduced our prayers to shallow formulas and God to a vending machine?

Promise of Prayer
1. Read 1 John 5:14-15
2. Read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
3. Read Philippians 4:7
What does God promise through prayer?

Consider and discuss the following:
Our primary goal in calling out to God throughout a life of prayer is not to make a daily existence easier or more enjoyable for ourselves – although from a certain point of view it will. The goal can be summed up in four words: intimacy with the Almighty. Seek that first and you will have everything you have longed for in life, including all the things you never knew you needed.

Jo Anne Robinson

Lesson

2008-07-20T19:33:00.000-07:00

7/20/08
Rick Herring shared some facts about Augusta Urban Ministries before sharing a bible lesson.

Facts about AUM:
1. Founded in 1967
2. Located on Hale Street in the old Murray Biscuit factory
3. Provide transitional housing ( 5 houses) to families referred by DFACS or United Way
4. Have a furniture and appliance bank for those who qualify through DFACS
5. Bicycle ministry – provide bike for transportation
6. White Christmas – provided Christmas to over 700 families ( 200 people) last year. Distribute the 2nd Saturday in December. Utilizes a common database between Salvation Army, SFACS, United Way, and First Baptist Church.
7. Tax assistance – helped in completing 142 tax returns last year
Wesley Church assisted in providing a new roof for one of the transition houses, participates in the White Christmas with the Angel Tree, and is part of the bike ministry.

Bible Study:

Christ as a Servant (Foot washing) – John 13: 1-8 and 12-20
Christ used foot washing is a example of how we can show love and humility. William Barkley says that in these scriptures Christ’s true nature is revealed.
Rick read a passage from Mother Teresa on humility. She says that humility leads to unity, and unity leads to peace.
Not only does Christ give us an example of humility but also an example of leadership.

Jo Anne Robinson

Lesson

2008-06-01T16:37:00.000-07:00

This week was the final "Judgment Call" lesson.

We recapped the last few weeks:

1. Remove the speck in your eye before confronting your friend about the plank in his/her eye.
2. Self examination/understanding & mercy for others. Once you've removed your speck, you might be able to empathize with the person.
3. Paul says to judge those within the church - not outside the church. We need to hold ourselves to a higher standard and not condone sinning behavior or others will view us as hypocrites when we want them to follow Christ.
4. When are we judged? What would Jesus do?

Today we talked about Forgiveness.
Luke 23:35-39
Our only chance for victory in Jesus is through Forgiveness. We must be humble and obedient as Jesus was.Human nature causes us to be more emotional & angry when judging others. We want to justify ourselves. Do we rejoice in others' pain sometimes?
Matthew 5:43 "Be Perfect" as God would have you to be. We should be more like children. Unlike children, we have a hard time loving everyone. Love asks Nothing.
Following Jesus has a cost - but you receive gifts of peace and joy.
Forgiveness restores relationships.
We can overcome obstacles that would have kept us from those relationships.

Have a great week!

Beth U.

Lesson

2008-05-18T09:19:00.000-07:00

Read Matthew 18:12-16
Verse 12: When to judge vs. when not to judge. Often times we think that "It's non of my business, so I don't have to get involved. That way it is not my responsibility".
Verse 13-14 : In Biblical culture, if one sheep was lost out of 100, they would secure the remaining 99 and look until they found the lost sheep. He would be so joyful that he found the lost sheep. Just as if we would look for a lost child, even if we already have other children. We wouldn't say, "that's okay, I've still got these children." Whenever we lose something of value, we are not relieved until we find it. If you lose your car keys, you don't say, "that's okay, I've still got my car" or if you lose your house key, you don't say "that's okay, I've still got a house". You will look until you find the key. God is the same way with us. We are his children. If one of us is lost, it is worth it to him to lead us back to him. We have a responsibility to be the hands and feet of God for those who have lost their way.
Verse 15 : If someone sins against us, go talk to them one on one. Jesus works through us.
Verse 16 : If he doesn't listen, take one or two others along to help talk to them.
Main Points:
1. Sheep/kids/people - If we lose one, we have a determination to find them.
2. Our motivation must be positive - compassion / love. Our motivation cannot be negative - selfishness / jealousy.
3. Right to judge vs. responsibility. We have a responsibility to go talk to someone - not just pray for them.
Discussion/Comparison of church message over time:Early church was oppressive - hellfire & damnation20th Century church - Billy Graham/Oral Roberts -
The message was simple - hope in savior / salvation. Exclusivity.21st Century church - Andy Stanley, Rick Warren, Joel Osteen, Bill Hybels - non-denominational, 10,000 - 20,000 church members, Inclusive.

In Christ,
Beth Upton

Lesson

2008-05-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

We continued with the Andy Stanley series of Judgment Call
"Sometimes Judging is Loving"
I Corinthians 5:1-13

Last week we talked about looking at yourself in the mirror before being able to go and talk to someone else about their sinful behavior. You must "first remove the plank in your eye before you try to remove the speck in someone else's eye".

We continued this week with Paul telling us in I Corinthians that we are to hold other Christians to a higher standard than people outside the Christian faith. If someone we know is involved in sinful behavior, we have an obligation to talk to them and let them know that we cannot condone that behavior or be associated with them. There was a man who was sleeping with his step mother and the members of his church family were ignoring the behavior and not confronting him with the sinfulness of his ways. Paul explained what they needed to do in order to bring the man back to God. They must have him stop the behavior in order to get back to what God wanted for him.

Questions:
1. Read I Corinthians 5:1-5. What would have been the result if the church had continued to ignore this man's behavior?
2. What are the consequences when we don't judge our fellow Christians?
3. I Corinthians 5:9-11. As a Christian, what does it look like to judge other Christians?
4. What is the goal of judging other Christians?
5. I Corinthians 5:12-13. Why are there two different standards for judging Christians vs. non-Christians?
6. What is usually the result when Christians judge outside the church?

When we do talk to someone, we should hold them to the Bible's standards, not ours. If we say, "I think..." the person will be less open to change than if we refer to what the Bible says.

Have a great week,
Beth Upton

Lesson

2008-04-13T18:10:00.000-07:00

Parable of The Debtors
Thanking My Savior

Background information of Jewish customs
Host supplies water to guests to wash feet
Host gives a polite kiss as an appropriate greeting
Host pours oil on guest heads – the oil was sweet or olive oil for pleasant smells and to make hair smooth & elegant.
Customary for uninvited guests to join a gathering in a house as an observer. The needy could eat the leftovers.

Read Luke 7:36 – 50

Compare Simon vs. the Sinful Woman

3 Questions in the story:

1. “Which of them will love Him more?”
2. “Do you see this woman?”
3. “Who is this who even forgives sins?”

Forgiveness: All or nothing, costly, final, free, received by Faith, public

How do we apply this in our lives? Are we more like Simon or the woman?

Small sinners are still sinners & need to repent.

We, like the debtors, have nothing with which to pay.

See you next week,
Beth Upton

Business Meeting

2008-03-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

3/30/08

Genesis Business Meeting. See Link to minutes.

Lesson

2008-03-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

3/16/08
The lesson Sunday was “Reaching for God’s Ear”.

Where do staying power and endurance come from especially in the spiritual realm which calls for a special kind of toughness?

Jesus directs us to the perseverance that is produced by persistence in prayer.

Luke 18:1-8 (beginning in 17:20)

What is giving up motivated by?
Being worn out by injustice, mistreatment, misunderstanding, despair and personal failure in our day to day life….

Jesus says” we must always pray and not give up.”

The only basis of perseverance because it is the means God uses to accomplish His will in our lives.
To stop praying is to grow weary.

Why the delay in answering prayers?
-timing
-capacity to handle the response
-God’s will may not automatically happen
-delay not a form of denial but preparation
-living in a world where good doesn’t necessarily win today, but where it will in the long run

“Prayer is a life passionately wanting, wishing, desiring God’s triumph”

Listen to Jesus: If heaven seems silent, just keep knocking and smile while you do so. God and the universe are on your side.

Have a great week!

With Love,
Michael

Lesson

2008-02-24T18:09:00.000-08:00

2/24/2008
Using Gifts to Serve Romans 12: 1-21 and 13:1-14

Take a test: Put a check mark next to the things that you feel you do well
1. Explaining things to people
2. Telling others about the faith
3. Tending to people’s needs
4. Helping people understand each other
5. Communicating in dramatic ways
6. Taking charge when needed
7. Understanding the meaning of things
8. Making people feel cared for
9. Giving graciously
10. Speaking before groups
11. Making unusual things happen
12. Identifying religious frauds
13. Encouraging and supporting others
14. Gathering and using information
15. Listening and/or acting sympathetically
16. Helping people toward health
17. Arranging meeting and programs

Match the above numbers with the following list:
1. Teaching
2. Evangelism
3. Serving
4. Interpretation
5. Tongues
6. Leadership
7. Wisdom
8. Pasturing
9. Giving
10. Preaching/prophecy
11. Miracles
12. Discernment
13. Encouragement
14. Knowledge
15. Kindness
16. Healing
17. Faith
18. Managing

Take another test: Using the numbers 1-5, prioritize the gifts you feel are the most important to share.

1 Corinthians 12: 1-31 Charis = meaning “grace” in Greek; Charismata meaning “ gifts of grace” or “gifts in grace”

Why does Paul in Romans associate he gifts of ministry with grace: God gave freely so we can give back or to others freely using our gifts.

Romans 12: 1-16 “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice….” Consider the meaning of sacrifice and talk about the “body”. All gifts are from God and the purpose of the gifts is to build discipleship and unity.

Pitfalls of giving gifts (Ephesians 2:8-10) We can forget the purpose of our gifts. We cannot boost of our gifts or our “works”.

We are to use our gifts in the spirit of love, mutual affection, devotion, honor, and joy. God’s gifts to us cannot be used as self-serving , for attention seeking, with arrogance, with a lack of humility, or with jealousy. The gifts that we are given are diverse/different but all are equal in God’s sight.

Jo Anne Robinson

Lesson

2008-01-27T15:29:00.000-08:00

1/27/08
Establishing Common Ground: The Universal Need for Salvation: Part 2
Divine Justice - Romans 2:1 through 3:20
How does Paul explain God's justice and what does law have to do with behavior and justice?
What is Paul's response about the inward & outward signs of keeping God's covenant?
What is the most challenging demands of the faith for you to keep?
How does your struggle teach you about judging others?
Is salvation possible for those who refuse to believe?

For next week, read Romans 2 - 6.

Lesson

2008-01-20T17:05:00.000-08:00

Part 2
Establishing Common Ground
The Universal Need for Salvation
Romans 1: 1-32

Romans 1:1-17 Paul letter to the Roman Christians begins with him giving the statement of purpose which is salvation and a prayer of thanksgiving. He also provides a thesis that the Gospel is the dynamic word of God and that the Word is effective salvation to ALL PEOPLE who receive it in and attitude of divine authority and truth.

Romans 1: 18-32
Paul establishes the common ground for understanding that there is only one God and he is the creator of everything. Paul defines God’s wrath and his understanding of sin as denying God’s authority and asserting your own authority. Paul also states that there is consequence to disobedience which is just and impartial.

Next week we will start our lesson at Romans 2: 1 – 3:20 – Divine Justice
Notes to consider for next week
1. Tension between doctrine of salvation by grace and faith versus Jewish concept of doing what is “law” – a system of reward and punishment
2. Conscience – right v. wrong
3. Use of diatribe – uses a verbal tool of taking to a hypothetical person
4. Judged on basis of our actions not ethnicity, religious practice, or wisdom
5. Chap 3 – humanity’s need for salvation, inability of the “law” to save

Jo Anne Robinson

Lesson

2008-01-13T18:57:00.000-08:00

1/13/09
Today's lesson was from the book "Paul and the Romans: The Life and Letters of Paul" written by Denise Stringer.
Julie led us in a look at Paul's life. Chapter 1 - The Apostolic Ministry of Paul

I. Background of Paul's letters
A. He was an apostle to a non Jewish Christian world from 33 -60 A.D.
B. He was in Corinth when he wrote the letters.
C. He wanted to establish a relationship with Christians in Rome, encourage unity and clear up misunderstandings about his teachings, and he hoped to recruit Roman Christians who would sponsor him to Spain to continue to spread the word.

Galatians 1:11-24
Acts 9:1-25
1 Corinthians 15:1-28

2. Paul's religious history - How Paul viewed his calling and ministry.
Romans 15:14-21, 20-33
2 Corinthians 11:23-33
A. Paul took his own story and his experiences to persuade others to become Christians.
B. At this time, Rome was a peaceful country undergoing expansion. There were less than 100 Christians, and many other religions. Christians still feared persecution.

3. Paul's life as a Pharisee vs. Paul's call to Christian Ministry
Romans 1:1-15
A. Pharisee:
1. Paul was part of a powerful group that followed the law. He did everything expected of him according to his studies of the scriptures / Jewish law.
2. This led to pride, prejudice, exclusion and division. He adapted a "holier than thou" / purity attitude. He was a persecutor.
3. Jewish faith was exclusive.
B. Christian Ministry:
1. Now Paul had no "rule book". He had to go on faith for what is expected.
2. Now Paul was persecuted instead of being the persecutor.
3. Christian Faith is expansive.

4. Paul's strategy for his mission - spreading the word to churches.
Romans 16:1-16, 21-24

5. The Congregations in Rome
A. mostly families that met in each others houses, mainly Gentile Christians, immigrants, small minority in large urban culture.
B. Roman culture was pluralistic, affluent cosmopolitan, liberal. There were many types of worship including mystics, magic, emperor worship, and the Revival of philosophy, Plato, Aristotle, Stoicism. There was a spiritual searching at the time.

Beth U.

Lesson

2008-01-06T18:51:00.000-08:00

1/6/08

Genesis Class Business Meeting was held today. See Minutes posted. Thanks to all the folks who helped make 2007 such a great year with their work and dedication. The meeting minutes will stay posted in this site for several weeks. See link.

The 2008 officers are:

President: Michael Hinson agreed to continue his position
Co-President: Mark Meeks
Treasurer: April Colburn has agreed to continue her position
Secretary: Beth Upton and JoAnne Robinson
Website: Michele Singletary agreed to continue the upkeep of our website.

The committees still need to be filled. We will send around a list of committees next week and everyone can sign up for a committee that interests them.

Thank you to everyone for attending this meeting. I hope everyone has a great week and we will see you again next week.
God Bless,

Christina

Julie passed around several books/studies this week for our perusal. She has chosen Paul and the Romans by Denise Stringer as our study for the next 7 weeks. If you would like to prepare for the first lesson: The Apostolic Ministry of Paul then you can read:

Romans
1:1-15
15:14-21, 30-33
16:1-16, 21-24

Lesson

2007-12-09T18:02:00.000-08:00

Answer to Dec 9 song from Advent Devotional: "I wonder as I wander"

See advent devotional at top right of this page for devotionals.

Lesson

2007-12-02T13:32:00.000-08:00

**We will be working thru an Advent Devotional. Please see link at the TOP RIGHT of this page. Read/Print as needed.

Lesson

2007-11-25T18:19:00.000-08:00

Grander Vision Living ~Part 4 of our book
Some things to consider:
How much recruiting are we doing?
How do we invest our lives, what's important, fulfilling?
Is it hard for us to accept that salvation is available to everyone now as well as right before death?
Do we feel an urgency to bring others to Christ?
Think about what is PERMENANT in our lives.

From Colossians 4: 2-6 Paul's advice for us!
"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversations be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."
As we end this study....may we all have a better understanding on how to share our Faith story and spread God's word to unbelievers. May we recognize and respond to the Open Doors God puts before us. Thank you, Julie for another fine lesson!

Grace be with you! Beth Freehof

Lesson

2007-11-18T16:05:00.001-08:00

11/18/07
We discussed Chapter 7 & 8 today. God's Good News & Lessons from the Master
The first chapter used different illustrations to relate with our relationship with God.
1. The Bridge~ God loved you so much that he asked his Son to serve as a bridge to span the chasm that separated you from Him.
2. Do vs. Done~ You don't have to earn your way into God's favor; the work that Christ accomplished on the cross declared payment for your sin "done".
3. The Morality Ladder~ Despite how good you are, you are far from perfect. The only way to make up your "morality gap" is by relying on Christ.
page 148 question #3 Which of these illustrations presented above most resonates with why you came to Christ?
We discussed Spiritual Openings; those opportunities to relate to others about our faith story. How do we handle it? Do we AVOID or ERUPT? Clam up or Over take them? We need to remember how we felt before we were believers in order to be effective.
Make sure if someone asks about our faith, we are able to respond!
Chapter 8 deals with Lessons from the Master
1. Bridge the Chasm~reach out to those whom we may view as unlovable
2. Ask Questions~seek to understand, see where they're at, develop friendships
3. Practice Patience~Be patient!
4. Beware of Rabbit Trails~they will challenge you, your beliefs and the Bible in an effort to distract you. Don't get off track with explanations.
5. Give hope to the hopeless~Give the idea of God's Grace. Explain -You are worthy! Pass on what God means to you.
Consider this from page 163 question 3: As you assess your own friendship patterns, whom do you typically reach out to?
Why do you think Christ encourages his followers to be radically accepting of ALL people?

Next week's lesson will be on Part 4 Grander Vision Living

Starting in December we will begin a new Advent study. Possibly Christmas Sermons. If anyone has any ideas, please email Julie.

Hebrew 13:15-16 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

May you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Peace & Joy to you all! Beth Freehof

Lesson

2007-10-28T18:09:00.000-07:00

10/28/2007
Julie continued our discussion of Just Walk Across the Room by Bill Hybels. The greatest gift we can bestow upon others is to lead them to a relationship with the Lord. We can be a positive signpost to those who are misdirected or lost completely. When we cross that finish line into the pearly gates, cross it with as many people beside you as possible. Listen to those “proddings” from the Holy Spirit and leave your circle of comfort. Share your love and faith with others.

Today, we discussed chapter 5 and learned what the next steps are into taking that “walk” that Bill Hybels speaks of. Take a risk in engaging someone in conversation. Be with others while you relate to them in an earnest and deep way—whether it be neighbors, coworkers, or an athletic group. Be patient, take time, use perseverance, and tune in to what the Holy Spirit urges you to do. Opportunities will abound! Bill Hybel puts it this way: “Friends, life is too short for you not to show up. When the Spirit nudges you to walk across a ball field, a parking lot, or a hospital room- whatever- take the risk to show up.” Heaven will never be disappointed when the bottom line value is LOVE!

Next week, Julie has given us an assignment from chapter 6. You need to read this chapter before completing the assignment. We will be sharing our stories of faith. Write down your story that can be shared in 60 seconds or less—be sure not to sound “preachy” or judgmental. Sharing is encouraged, not mandatory!

Hope to see you at the social!

Love~
Beth

Lesson

2007-10-14T22:03:00.000-07:00

10/14/2007
We reviewed chapter 1 and 2 of Just Walk Across the Room
“To seek and to save what is lost”

Part 2 – Living in 3D
The end of the lesson was
Commonality Points
Corinthians 9:22
Sensitivity Points
Sideline your own agenda and discover the other person’s story.

For October 28, please read chapters 1-5. We will recap chapter 1-4 and discuss chapter 5.

Have a great Week and God Bless everyone
Christina

Lesson

2007-10-07T17:55:00.000-07:00

10/07/07
Julie began a new series today discussing, Just Walk Across the Room, by Bill Hybels. In a typical day, we take 10,000 steps. That computes to 115,000 miles in our lifetime! If we can manage that distance, certainly we can leave our “circle of comfort” and take a few steps across a room to speak with someone. It could possibly change their life. Life’s greatest moments occur when we perform simple acts toward someone. This is possible only when God prompts us in the most mysterious ways. Christ came to seek and save what is lost. PEOPLE are Jesus’ number one priority—the lonely, the sick, the down-hearted, the depressed, and the hopeless. The greatest gift you can ever give someone is to lead them to a relationship with Christ. Acts 1:8 tells us that we who follow Christ have a mission here on Earth to do just that. Think you lack the knowledge, the tenacity, time, looks, or talent to carry out this mission? Don’t be concerned with these because the Almighty God, Creator of the Universe, is on your side!

Julie will have a quick review of chapter 2 and discuss chapter 3 next week! Remember there are books and study guides in the classroom.

Have a great week and I hope to see you at the yard sale!

Love,
Beth

Lesson

2007-09-30T14:19:00.000-07:00

9/30/07
I mistakenly wrote in my last update that Julie was starting our new book today. That will begin NEXT week, and will cover the next 8 weeks. Just Walk Across the Room by Bill Hybel is the name of the book. Copies of the book and study guides are available in the Genesis classroom. If you’d like to prepare for next week, read Part I, which covers sections 1 and 2.

Today was the last lesson that Julie delivered on The Book of Hebrews (really, this time!) For those that would like a recap of these lessons, see below:

*Chapter 1- beautiful passage of God’s ultimate soveigntry
*Chapter 2- Jesus offering salvation and brotherhood to all
*Chapter 3- describes the importance of how we can enter the sanctity of God’s peace
*Chapter 4- tells of the perfect sacrifice and the approachability of Jesus Christ
*Chapter 5- Jesus’ obedience to God on the cross
*Chapter 6- warns us not to turn our backs on what we know is true
*Chapter 7- the differences between the old and new covenants; sacrifices no longer necessary
*Chapter 8- the intimate fellowship that is possible with God; the incredible gift that is offered to us
*Chapter 10- the ultimate perfection of Christ.

Today, Julie discussed chapters 12 and 13. Our journey of faith is more like a marathon than a sprint! Some of us at times may be tempted to give up the race instead of persevering because of persecution or hardships that are thrown our way. God provided a “crowd of faith” (those old-time Biblical heroes) as inspiring examples. Mercifully, God is not only willing to forgive our sins and transgressions, but will forget them as well!

Continue to seek God’s salvation by trudging through that relentless marathon we call life. Live in Christian maturity and don’t turn away from our Creator. Keep focusing on the heavenly, eternal reward!

Live well,
Beth

Lesson

2007-09-23T18:32:00.000-07:00

9/23/07
Julie concluded our study on the Book of Hebrews with the topic of “faith”. She mainly concentrated on chapter 10: 25, 25 and 30-39. While the term faith means a multitude of things, we listed: assurance that there is an Almighty, believing without seeing, trusting, being doubt-free, allegiance, sincerity, and loyalty. To live faithfully, we must be compassionate, confident in our beliefs, enduring, have perseverance, provoke good deeds, and gather together. We must express our faith to others by love and good deeds. If expressing your faith creates strife, step back and reevaluate how you have presented yourself. Profession of our faith is a key ingredient in developing our spirituality. Read about the many examples of the faithful and the specific acts of faith they performed by reading the 11th chapter of Hebrews.

Hope to see all of you next week!
Love~
Beth

Lesson

2007-09-16T13:34:00.000-07:00

9/16/07
Julie continued Max Lucado’s study on the Book of Hebrews. Julie covered chapters 4,5,6,7 in Hebrews. We discussed God’s great, high priest—Jesus Christ. Because of the perfect sacrifice, His Son Jesus, we no longer have to offer sacrifices or go through a priest to obtain God’s gift of grace. God’s justice (or fairness) is available for all who seek Him. We can count on God to rescue us in difficult times even when our predicament comes from our own making. God never tires of reconciliations. His compassion, love, and mercy never cease. He will never, ever give up on us! God wishes for us to demonstrate compassion toward those less fortunate. There are numerous opportunities to show mercy to those in need. Rick reminded us not to forget those RACK envelopes.

The study of Hebrews will continue throughout September. The first Sunday in October, the 7th, Julie will begin discussing Just Walk Across the Room. Books are available in our classroom.

I hope you have a terrific week!
Beth

Lesson

2007-08-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

8/26/07
Julie led about fifty of us in discussing the Book of Hebrews. She is using a book by Max Lucado as a guide. If you would like a copy of the book, please let Julie know. The Book of Hebrews was written around A.D. 70 before the destruction of the temple. The author is unknown, but we do know that it was written to address the Jewish Christians. There are many references to Old Testament rituals. The author relays to these Jewish Christians the change from the Old Covenant (fearfulness and strict obedience to God) to the New Covenant (enter Jesus Christ). After the resurrection of Christ, these people no longer have to have the blessing of high priests and can discontinue sacrifices. Jesus Christ is now their mediator to God’s grace. The first four verses of the Book of Hebrews are thought by some to be the most beautifully written section of the Bible. These verses give a vivid account of Christ as being heir and creator of the universe—an exact representation of God and our powerful Redeemer who sits at the right hand of God Almighty. Jesus is described as being superior to all of the angels! (The Book of Hebrews really puts angels in their place.) Hebrews warns us of five things that could cause Christians to lose focus of salvation. Today’s warning: Pay attention! Don’t drift astray and be enslaved by worldly items. Put your whole trust in our Lord and Savior. A relationship with Jesus is mandatory for eternal life!

Coming soon…warnings 2-5!

Have a safe and relaxing Labor Day!
~Beth

Lesson

2007-08-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

8/19/07
Julie led 35 of us as she concluded The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Families. Habit #7, Sharpen the Saw, directs us how to keep our family effective. It’s not enough to achieve success and then let entropy engulf our hard work. We must continually strive on staying a successful family. We shared activities we do together as families to constantly replenish what everyday life can drain out of us. Some included: eating together (A 1950’s study concluded that 90% of families ate dinner together vs. 30% in the 1990s), worshipping together, vacationing, doing chores together, keeping family traditions alive, and sharing activities such as games or movies.

There are four levels of success to staying a successful, effective family. The bottom level (where you don’t want to find yourself) is survival mode. These families are just getting by meeting their basic needs. Most of their lives are consumed by work. This may be due to financial hardship or caused by over-committing themselves.

The next level is stability. In this level, the basic needs of the family are met, but the family still finds itself in the problem-solving mode. These families may be restrained because of chaos—job loss, natural disaster, laziness, boredom, or escapism.

In the third tier, the family reaches success! This is a cohesive group who worships and prays together. This family plans ahead and is well-organized. Older parents have raised independent, responsible, self-sufficient young adults! Younger parents are raising excited, confident, and inventive children!

The highest level, significance, is what most of us ultimately long to achieve. This is when the family is in the creative mode. Family members look around and want to improve the world around them. They participate in missions together and help those who are less fortunate. This family is empathetic towards others. Parents at this level expose their children to the outside world and to people who are different from themselves.

Thanks, Julie, for devoting your time helping us to be more successful families. As parents, we must be great leaders and influencers to our children. Fortunately, we have the ultimate role model that will lead us to perfection if we only take the time to devote to Him—Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior!

Hope to see all of you next week when we discuss Hebrews!

Love~
Beth

Lesson

2007-08-12T17:20:00.000-07:00

8/12/07
Julie gave another great lesson this week. Thank you Julie.
Habit # 6 from 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families
Synergy
The 7 questions or ideas that were discussed during the lesson were:
1-What is synergy?
Whole is greater than the sum of all parts
Cohesiveness
Examples: committee diversity effective collectively human body football team

2-How can we be synergistic?
It is not about a winner or loser, it is about a win-win situation.

Mind reading is not a way to communicate.
3-Two quotes that were discussed
“No man is an island entire of itself, every man is a piece of the continent.”
“Any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore, never send to know for who the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.”
4- Have your children help solve or find solutions to the problems
5- Listen to each other ….. LISTEN
6- Establish relationships with each other
7- If people have a difference of opinion with each other, ask them why they believe or feel that way. Try to understand where they are coming from.

In Christ,
Christina

Lesson

2007-08-05T16:26:00.000-07:00

8/5/07
Julie gave another great lesson this week. Thank you Julie.
Habit # 5 from 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families
Seek First to Understand Then to be Understood
The 7 questions or ideas that were discussed during the lesson were:
1-How do we see the world?
Exposure, roles as a person, friends, finance, our experiences, age or generations
2-Seeking to understand – The Fundamental Deposit
Should be a cohesive style of raising our children so the children are not confused about the rules or boundaries
3-Psychologic Air (giving each other room to grow)
You make the effort to interact so appreciate the worth of each other.
4-Negative Baggage
Overcoming anger and offense
5-Faithful Translator
Jesus loved everyone. He seeked out those who needed saving.
There are 5 types of listeners: Emphatic listening, Attentive listening, Pretend listening, Selective listening, and Ignoring completely.
What type of listener are you?
6-Initially you should not judge, advise, probe or interpret. We should use sincere listening to the other without judging.
7-Seek to Understand
We should seek to understand Jesus and one another so we can teach and influence others as Christians.

Christina

2007-07-30T13:37:00.001-07:00

7/29/07
Tim Coody led a full Genesis house on chapter four of Steven Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families. Habit #4 is entitled “Win-Win”. For the benefit of those summertime church-goers (like me), #1’s habit is “Proactive” (have a mission in mind), #2’s habit “Begin with the End in Mind” (set clear goals), and #3’s habit “First Things First” (set priorities). Tim began by reminding us of the parable that told of the laborers who worked various portions of the day (from full day to half day to even a couple of hours), but all got paid the same wage. Which group of workers triumphed that day? Did the ones hired last revel in the fact that they only had to work a short time but received the same pay? Or did those last hires have a day of desperation and despair over the thoughts that they may not be able to provide for their families without employment? I believe we all agreed that these weren’t slovenly, lazy citizens wanting to cheat someone out of something. All the men genuinely wanted to be employed. Kay Caldwell compared this parable to the thieves on the cross next to Jesus. God’s grace is the same whether or not your journey with Him occurs over a lifetime or near one’s last breath here on earth. It truly not matters to God what works we do or the amount we contribute. Those things are our gifts to enjoy during our short stay here. It is vital that we savor and enjoy that journey. As we all witnessed just over a month ago, that passage may be shorter than we ever thought.
Tim told us about two brothers in the book that competed with each other over video games. The youngest boy thought it unfair that his older brother always beat him when they played together. Should we as parents level the playing field when games or sports are involved? Some opinions from class members were “accentuate the positive in each individual child”, “give the child an advantage according to age/ability”, “stress the importance of good sportsmanship”. What is your objective when teaching your children about success? Ted Griffin thinks that if what you want to convey about success is being involved in and learning to compete with others in a sport, then an occasional advantage is fine. If a parent wants to prove that they are bigger, better, stronger, or faster than their child, then no favors are necessary. Great point, Ted!

Until next Sunday morning…keep in mind that God’s grace is given freely for all!

Love~
Beth

2007-07-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

7/22/07
Habit # 3 from 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families
"Put first things first".

WE should find time to fit the important things into our lives among all the things that we HAVE to do.

2 organizing structures that will help prioritize your family in a hectic world and make the mission stement a family constitution:
Weekly family time.
One on one bonding times with each family member.
These things will help create a powerful way to put "family first".

Goethe: "Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things which matter least"

2007-07-16T12:22:00.000-07:00

7/15/07
Julie led us in Week 2 from "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families"
Our focus this week is on the process of generating a family mission statement and the benefits thereof.
We should begin with the end in mind. Proverbs: "Without vision, the people will perish".
Julie had handouts with potential questions we should ask ourselves to find out which principles we would like to govern our life and family.(this is from her handouts)

Step 1--Explore what your family is about. Listen with respect, restate accurately to show understanding, consider writing down the idea.
Step 2--Write down your family mission statement. Revise. Rethink.
Step 3--Use it to stay on track.

**Consider a marriage mission statement as well.

3 Watch Outs
**Don't announce it--it takes time and patience to have participation, communication. No involvement--No commitment.
**Don't rush it.
**Don't ignore it. It is in the living of it that the richest fruits come.

We then used this same principle and applied it to try and form a mission statement for Genesis Class. We did not complete the process but the discussion was very interesting and we all had opinions on what we want for our class.

Tune in next week for more from Julie.

Peace,

Michele

2007-07-10T17:03:00.000-07:00

7/9/07
Julie started this week with the book "7 Habits of Highly Effective Families" by Stephen R. Covey. This book will carry us thru the next 7 weeks.
I hope I can do Julie justice--she did an awesome job today getting us to think about what we really want out of Family Life and what we should be doing to make it happen.
According to the author, most families that consider themselves "Good Families" are on track 10% of the time and off track 90% of the time. Wow!! We need some work!!
What type of family culture do most of us want? We all agreed that we want a loving, Christ-centered, safe haven, supportive, productive, responsible, honest, ...family life.
We all have daily regrets and struggles with providing the above. To help us achieve this we can start with a Mission Statement for our families. This is not so easily done. The requirements of doing this sometimes get in the way...all family members have to participate, we have to make the time to do it, even if the all members agree to it we may still meet some resistance. Pilots do not fly without a flight plan....why would we not invest time in the planning of something so important to us?
We should be PROACTIVE!!
When we are stimulated to respond we should hit the "Pause Button" first..will our response be critical? comforting? tenderly teaching? We DO have a choice.
We should role model unconditional love for our children. We should deposit in their emotional bank accounts by giving our time, being patient and understanding instead of withdrawing with negativity and criticism. If you consistently only make withdrawals, then eventually you will lose the relationship altogether.
Our children want to know that we are there for them--no matter what--we should show acceptance..not rejection, understanding..not judgement, participation..not manipulation......

OK...My brain and hand eventually got WAY apart but be there next week for more of this topic.... we can all take something from this.

see ya Saturday night at Petersburg,

Michele =

2007-07-07T16:01:00.000-07:00

7/1/07
Steve Ashe led the lesson from the book Finding Rest When the Work is Never Done by Patrick Klingaman. I think it was rather fitting that we discussed finding peace today. So many of us are struggling with this issue during the recent loss of our dear friend Lore. The author reminds us that true peace resides in God. He alone is at the center of our ability to seek rest and calmness. Frequently we tend to internalize our feelings because of pride and pretense. This only causes turmoil in our lives and relationships. Steve relayed ten benefits of finding serenity and rest. They are:
Absence of conflict
Contentment
Quiet
Light burdens
Hope
Endurance
A clean conscious (freedom from guilt)
Power of the Holy Spirit
Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-24)

I hope we can let go of our weariness and dwell with our Lord and Savior. He is our Prince of Peace! Let us all continue to trust, obey, and serve the Lord.

I was caught red-handed this morning not paying full attention and thumbing through my Bible furiously! Fortunately, I found the verse for which I was frantically searching. It was a favorite of Lore’s. Long ago I highlighted it and wrote her name beside it. It is Isaiah 40:31, “…but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

It is with tremendous comfort that I know that Lore has her wings--fly on sister friend!

Love~
Beth

2007-06-10T13:29:00.001-07:00

6/10/2007

Today’s lesson was a continuance in the book, Finding Rest When the Work is Never Done, by Patrick Klingaman. Julie touched upon four areas of our life that will suffer due to lack of rest- body, mind, heart, and soul. Your body is your #1 source of stewardship. If you don’t take care of it, your service to others ceases. Stress has very negative effects on our physical well-being. 2/3 of Americans get less than 6 hours of sleep per night. There are more automobile fatalities in teen drivers due to lack of sleep, rather than alcohol related. Slow down and pace yourself! Our minds are a flutter of constant activity. We need to take our focus off a worldly perspective and onto an eternal one. The Richards family has been without TV for 14 months now! Rick cannot believe how much time they wasted in front of the tube. It has given their family much more togetherness and a less stressful household. The heart is mentioned over 800 times in the Bible. Some causes of a heavy heart are unfulfilled expectations, wanting what others have, and ingratitude for what you do have. Statistics reveal that 80% of lottery winners are broke after 5 years of winning! Refer to Psalm 23. It is our assurance that God will meet us in that ultimate vacation resort in the sky!!

Be well…hoping to see you at the tournament Saturday!
~Beth

2007-06-03T13:33:00.001-07:00

6/3/2007

Hello Friends!

For a rainy, summer morning, many of us gathered together for Julie’s lesson on rest. The lesson came from the book, Finding Rest When the Work is Never Done. With 24/7 retail stores open, current technology (cell phones, Blackberries, iPods, etc.), and kid’s activities scheduled EVERY day of the week (even throughout the summer), we find it difficult to rest. Julie calls it “addiction to achievement”. Many of us find excuses why we shouldn’t relax and take it easy. “I’ll catch up later…I don’t need as much rest as I think I do…rest is for the weak…I don’t deserve to rest until the work is done. Sound familiar? You must place resting on your agenda. God tells us, “Be still and know that I am God…” (Psalm 46:10) When we have moments of respite, we connect with God. Ever skipped Sunday School or Sunday Worship because you need to sleep in? (I’m guilty!) The Bible says, “And God blessed the seventh day and made it holy” (Genesis 2:3) This commandment was part of the covenant that God made with the Israelites. By resting on the Sabbath, God’s chosen were set apart from all other nations. As Christians, we should strive to set ourselves apart from non-Christians.

Lack of rest leads to irritability, physical ailments, poor decision making, lack of creativity, but mostly missed opportunities with God. Here’s a shocker: the suicide rate for teens has risen a whopping 300%. How many sit down dinners have you had lately with your entire family? How many hours a day do you spend with your kids? Are we losing our connection with all that we hold dear?

God wants us to “stop and smell the roses”! Enjoy His wondrous creations. Treasure the fruits of your hard work.

Next week’s lesson is titled “Key Components of Total Rest”. Until then… put your feet up, take a break, and thank God for his bountiful blessings!

~Beth

2007-05-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

A big Thank you to Steve Ashe for leading our class once again on our study of Phillip Yancy's The Book Jesus Read. This Sunday we studied the 5th session: Psalms. We learned that it's the largest book of the Bible and the most frequently quoted. In fact, Jesus referred to Psalms quite often during his teachings. It is called the "Poetry Book" and is divided up into 5 sections, although there really isn't any reason to the order, the Psalms seem to contradict each other since they are a compilation of thoughts expressed to God over 2000 years by various authors. David was a major contributor and encouraged everyone to be honest with God. God already knows our heart but it is for our benefit to express our true feelings to Him in order that He may help us.

May the Peace of God sustain you all this week!

Love, Beth Freehof

2007-05-01T03:34:00.000-07:00

4/30/2007
Thanks, Steve Ashe, for teaching the lesson this morning. For those who missed it, it came from the 4th section of The Book Jesus Read by Philip Yancey. The average person can name only 3 out of the 10 Commandments. Well, we named 9, but it took 30 class members to do so! (And this after Julie’s similar quiz a few weeks ago) Maybe the third time is the charm!

Mr. Yancey points out that it is when things are going well in our lives that our spiritual relationship with God is most at risk. When we are healthy, relationships are chipper, bank accounts full—that is when we tend to turn away from God and give ourselves the credit. Is this what concerned Moses the most about God’s deliverance? Did Moses sense that when life became comfortable, contented, and relaxed for the chosen that they would stray from God? Hmmm… makes you think.

Have a fantastic week! I hope to see you next Sunday~
Beth

Sunday April 22, 2007

2007-04-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

Hello Class!
It began to dawn on me as I was sitting in class today how I’ve probably butchered the summations of the lessons that Julie Meeks so eloquently brings to us week after week. Therefore, to many folk’s relief, I’ll spare you my full page of notes from today’s message! Though I don’t always understand everything I should, I have learned much by merely listening and taking notes! Sitting in the Genesis class today, and then hearing Bob Gillespie at the 11 o’clock service, I discovered certain parallels. After the brutalities at Virginia Tech this week, I watched and listened to many people questioning God’s presence. Job did the same as he watched his wealth, family, and health annihilated. Events like the one that took place at VT cause even the most devout to question—Where was God that day? Why must the innocent suffer? What did they (or I) do to deserve this? Humans don’t enjoy witnessing pain or suffering. We tend to want answers (like Job did) when bad things happen. God has the confidence in His people that we will continue to be faithful throughout disastrous occasions. God is where He always has been. Bob Gillespie reminded us of a hymn he enjoys when things don’t always go the way we want them to:

“This is my Father’s World-

O let me ne’er forget

That though the wrong seems oft so strong

God is the ruler yet.”

Continue to know that the Lord is pure, righteous, and trustful. Carry on living a moral life and repent from sin. God is more interested in our faithfulness than our pleasure. If we can endure, grand things lie ahead!
To be prepared for next week brush up on Deuteronomy!
~Beth

Sunday April 15, 2007

2007-04-17T03:27:00.000-07:00

Today’s lesson continued from The Bible Jesus Read by Philip Yancey. Everyone paid close attention lest we were quizzed by Doc/Teacher Julie! Wonder why we should read the Old Testament? It gives us a unified account through thousands of pages of not only history, but the way in which God wants us to live. Here the OT chronicles the dialogue between God and man. In the OT can be found one of the saddest verses in the Bible- “God was grieved in His heart that he made man”. Genesis members tackled (with much finesse!) many of the names of heroes, villains, saints, and sinners. The Old Testament shows us how time and time again that God’s grace and mercy gives humans hope and a new start. This common theme shines throughout the OT. We tend to forget this promise of hope. Sometimes our lives get bogged down with remembering the negative slivers, not the gifts of happiness that God constantly provides. Continue reading the OT. Not only will you read about sorrow and despair, but will discover many examples of forgiveness and hope. For those who want a head start on next week’s lesson, read the Book of Job.

Until then…
Beth Meschke

Sunday April 1, 2007

2007-04-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

Julie Meeks led today’s lesson from The Bible Jesus Read by Philip Yancey. This first lesson of the book was entitled, “Is the Old Testament Worth It?” Julie began by giving all present a Bible trivia game. 80% of Americans can’t answer the following: “What is the first book of the Bible?” “Did Noah have a wife named Joan of Arc?” “What are the ten commandments?” Fortunately, the Genesis class came through with the answers (not exactly with flying colors, though!). Most of us are more drawn to the New Testament rather than the Old. Many find it difficult to read, hard to understand, full of violence, anger, death, and destruction. Ironically, these things are what our news media reports the most! Even though three-fourths of the Bible consists of the O.T., it is the least understood. Today’s video stated that this part of the Bible answers where we came from, how we got here, and where we are going. The O.T. is God speaking directly to us. It describes God’s personal and intimate relationship with heroes such as Moses, Abraham, and David. However, God focused much more on their weaknesses and foibles than their heroics. Julie pointed out that the greatest and most accurate account of ancient world history comes from the Old Testament- over a millennia’s worth, in fact. Need therapy?…counseling?…comforting? Try the Psalms! After all, during Jesus’ life here on Earth, the Old Testament was all there was! With Julie’s guidance, let’s give the Old Testament another chance!! Reading and comprehending the O.T. will make the story of Jesus complete.

Beth

Sunday March 25, 2007

2007-03-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

Hello Class!

I missed being in Sunday School this morning, but as Jesus’ mother, I had other duties! What a beautiful drama! As usual, Lori Van Lenton brought us another talent-filled, inspiring, and moving performance. We are indeed fortunate to have such a dedicated music director.

Today’s lesson was entitled “When It Comes to Social Action”/ “How to be Politically Involved Without Losing Your Soul”. From the notes I received, this lesson was somewhat preaching to the choir. Genesis is a generous class- financially and time-wise. Wesley is a mission oriented congregation. Of course, we can always do more. It is vital that we contribute to the less fortunate and oppressed in a physical way, not just sending money to solve the multitude of problems that plague our world. Remember the old adage, “give a man a fish…”.

Have a wonderful week!
Beth

Sunday March 18th, 2007

2007-03-21T09:48:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone! It was great to be back with you after a few weeks away.

Brace yourselves for a lengthy newsletter!

We were short on time due to many announcements, but Michael Hinson led our discussion from Tony Campolo’s book, Following Jesus Without Embarrassing God. Today’s topic focused on how to deal with racism. Fortunately, with the majority of our class and church being middle-class Caucasians, we probably haven’t had to bear the brunt of the painfulness of being discriminated against. I realize there are exceptions. Growing up in the south in the 60’s and 70’s, I certainly witnessed my share. Sadly, it has not been eradicated and its hurt still exists today. Racism is an ugly cycle and it only breeds more racism. The oppressed in our world need an extra special dose of grace. The Christian values that most of us desperately seek cannot coexist when racism is a part of our lives. The author points out that ethnicity, nationality, sex, religion, handicaps—anything that sets one group apart from another are all forms of racism. Jesus was the ultimate anti-racist. Only His truth can set men and women of every culture, color, or group free! Christ lived in a culturally and racially diverse society, which in many ways wasn’t all that different from ours today. However, He promoted harmony by His examples and His word. For further reading, read John 17:21, Hebrews 12:14 &15, and Psalm 51:10.

If I missed anything or got it wrong, it wasn’t because I wasn’t listening, just because my shorthand is rusty! Please feel free to correct me!

Until next week…..

Beth

Sunday March 11, 2007

2007-03-13T02:51:00.000-07:00

Genesis.........Following the Lord........Caring for each other

Hello Friends!!!
I thought we had a good turn-out this morning in class considering the time change and the great social we had last night!!! Mucho Grande Gracias to the Fucuas for throwing a fabulous Mexican fiesta at their beautiful home!!! We all had a GREAT time!!!
Thanks also to Tim Troutman for leading us in our lesson today!!! Lots of good discussions as we continued in Tony Campolo's book. I found the poem that I made mention to today. Thought I would include it for thought this week.

When you get to heaven, God won't ask.....

God won't ask what kind of car you drove.He will ask how many people you took to church in it.God won't ask the floor area of your house.He will ask how many people you helped in it.God won't ask how many fancy clothes you had in your closet.He will ask how many of those clothes you gave to othersin need of them.God won't ask what social class you were in.He will ask what kind of "class" you displayed.God won't ask how many material possessions you had.He will ask whether those material possessions dictatedyour life.God won't ask what your highest salary was.He will ask if you trampled over anybody to obtain that salary.God won't ask how much overtime you worked.He will ask if you worked overtime for your family.God won't ask how many promotions you received.He will ask what you did to promote others.God won't ask what your job title was.He will ask if you performed your jobto the best of your ability.God won't ask how many promotions you took.He will ask how many promotions you refusedin order to advance your family's quality of life.God won't ask how many times you didn't run aroundafter your spouse.He will ask how many times you did.God won't ask how many degrees you had.He will ask how many people you thankedfor helping you get those degrees.God won't ask what your parents did to help you.He will ask what you did to help your parents.God won't ask what you did to help yourself.He will ask what you did to help others.God won't ask how many friends you had.He will ask how many people you befriended.God won't ask what you did to protect your rights.He will ask what you did to protect the rights of others.God won't ask what neighborhood you lived in.He will ask what other neighborhoods you visited.God won't ask how many times you told the truth.He will ask how many times you told a lie.God won't ask about the color of your skin.He will ask about the color of your heart.God won't ask how many times your deedsmatched your words.He will ask how many times they didn't.

I hope you all have a wonderful and Blessed week!!!

In His service........................Lore

2007-03-03T12:33:00.000-08:00

February 18 Life Lesson #6 "I Submit"
Ephesians 5:21 "..Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." Not because they deserve it but because God wants us to.
Philippians 2:3-11
".. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but in humility concern.....

"Do unto others as GOD has unconditionally done for you"

Next Week Feb 25
New book Following Jesus without Embarrassing God by Tony Campolo