The "Patriarchs"

Dennis McCallum

Genesis 37:2-45:28

The story of Joseph, a beloved son of Jacob who is betrayed and sold into slavery by his brothers, is a story of forgiveness and redemption. Through over a decade of further betrayal, suffering, and despair God continually works and brings him into a position of power as the right hand man of Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. Joseph's brothers come to Egypt during a famine to buy grain and find the brother they had betrayed. Joseph forgives his brothers and is finally reunited with his father. Over and over in Joseph's life, God proves his amazing power to bring about good in spite of evil.\r\n

6 Principles for Suffering

Ryan Lowery

1 Peter 4:7-19

All people experience suffering in this life that threatens to overwhelm us. Fortunately, the Bible speaks of the incredible opportunity that suffering brings for a Christian. In order to persevere through this suffering, we must: 1) remember God's plan; 2) be sober-minded; 3) be prayerful; 4) love others; 5) not be surprised and 6) trust God's faithfulness.

God's Ways Always Triumph in the End

Ryan Lowery

1 Peter 3:8-4:2

The idea that God blesses those who are righteous and punishes those who are wicked is challenged by our observations about the world around us. In an eternal sense, those who trust in Christ will ultimately win out. Though Christians may suffer in this life, they have the opportunity to share God's love with with confidence that it is worth it in the end.

Join with Me in Suffering for the Gospel

Jim Leffel

2 Timothy 1:8-14

Paul advocates that Timothy follow his example and suffer for the sake of the gospel. The basis for us living radically and suffering for the sake of God comes from the immense calling He has given us through the gospel. Christians have eternal work that has been set apart for them since eternity past and has come to fruition through Jesus Christ, which we are to live out with a focus on God's truth.

Fight the Good Fight

Jim Leffel

1 Timothy 6:12-16

In his letter to Timothy, Paul encourages him to fight the good fight to manifest the truth and life of Christ. Jesus' sacrifice offers a new life that Christians most choose to live out. An understanding of the character of God is essential.

Suffering in Perspective

Ryan Lowery

1 Peter 1:3-12

Christians are given an eternal hope that is in stark contrast to the cynicism of modern-day culture. Perseverance through pain, suffering, and trials requires confidence in this living hope. The result of suffering victoriously through trials is a purified and strengthened faith.

Our Approach to Scripture Matters

Ryan Lowery

1 Peter 1:1-2

In order to adopt an authentic Biblical lifestyle, we need to learn to interpret scripture accurately. By looking at the historical context and paying close attention to what the author says, we can arrive at much deeper conclusions. As we allow truth to affect our lives we are likely to encounter opposition from our culture. This is why we need to take a stand on the spiritual reality outlined in the Bible, and remember that our citizenship is in heaven.

Discipline Yourself for the Purpose of Godliness

Jim Leffel

1 Timothy 4:1-11

Contrary to other religious ideas about discipline, the Bible present discipline as our response to God's initiative and grace. Disciplined spirituality keeps the end goal in mind, is profitable to those who partake in it, and requires a steady diet of God's Word.

Two Ways to Live

Scott Risley

Romans 3:10-12:3

An overview of Hebrew poetry (tools for understanding and interpreting), types of Psalms (wisdom, praise/thanksgiving, and lament/anger), and an explanation of what we can learn from the Psalms including: how to express our feelings to God; and reconciling our feelings/life experiences with truth found in scripture. Psalm 1 is a wisdom psalm that lays out two life-paths (wicked vs. righteous), and the importance of delighting in and meditating on the Word. Ultimately, this psalm calls us to entrust our lives to God and learn to listen to His Word.