LEAD by Review and Herald Publishing, Association

PERSPECTIVES 2 LEAD Editor, Faith Johnson Crumbly 2 Guest Editor, William Alexander Bryan IV FRONT LINES: Union and Conference Training 3 Pacific Union: Southeastern California Conference 4 Southwestern Union: Southwest Region Conference 5 Columbia Union: Review and Herald 6 Atlantic Union Conference: Northeastern Conference

Mission Statement Embracing the hope of Jesus’ soon return in light of the Three Angels’ Messages of Revelation 14, LEAD equips leaders to inspire and disciple Sabbath School members worldwide. ABOUT THE COVER: Connections for Christ through the Sabbath School can be made in person and through all manner of media.

Quarterly Theme Song: Go to leadmagazine.org

PROFILES: Spotlight on Local Churches 8 North American Division: West End, Michigan 9 North American Division: Apopka, Florida 10 North American Division: Omaha, Nebraska 11 North American Division: Hagerstown, Maryland

THE FOUR GOALS OF SABBATH SCHOOL: 1 Bible Study Growing in personal Christian experience 2 Fellowship Extending Christian hospitality 3 Community Outreach Working for the human needs of the community 4 World Mission Financially supporting missionaries LEAD (ISSN 0887-1094) is published quarterly. Copyright © 2009 by the Review and Herald® Publishing Association. Mail: 55 West Oak Ridge Drive, Hagerstown, Maryland 21740. Telephone: 301-393-4095. E-mail: Lead@rhpa.org. Web site: www.leadmagazine.org. Periodicals postage paid at Hagerstown, Maryland 21740. Postmaster: Send address changes to LEAD, 55 West Oak Ridge Drive, Hagerstown, Maryland 21740. Subscription price: one year, US$35.95. Please add US$7.00 for addresses outside the North American Division. Volume 2, No. 4, OCT, NOV, DEC 2009 Unless otherwise noted, Bible texts are from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1979, 1980, 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Texts credited to Clear Word are from The Clear Word, copyright © 1994, 2000, 2003, 2004, 2006 by Review and Herald® Publishing Association. Texts credited to Message are from The Message. Copyright © 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002. Used by permission of NavPress Publishing Group. Texts credited to NIV are from the Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Bible Publishers.

SUPERINTENDENTS 16 Leaders’ Corner 17 Sabbath School Companion Book MORNING FELLOWSHIP 19-31 Programs 32-33 Legacy LEADERSHIP LINKS: THE BRIDGE 34 NAD Family Ministries 35 Youth Ministries 36 NAD Children’s Ministries 37 NAD Personal Ministries 38-39 Witnessing Survival Guide 40 NAD Adventist Community Services 42-44 Emmaus Eyes (for Mentally Challenged Adults) 45 NAD Women’s Ministries FACILITATOR RESOURCES 7 From the Shelf 46-48 Tool Kit 51-53 Hands On

Address Changes: subscriberservices@rhpa.org

Editor: Faith Johnson Crumbly Editorial Assistant: Marjorie Chambers Marketing Representative: Nick Bejarano Art Director/Designer: Mark O’Connor Advertising Sales Representative: Genia Blumenberg Ad Production Representative: Brigitte DeLong Special Events: Samuel Thomas, Jr. Subscriber Services: Julie Haines LEAD Advisory: Richard Tooley, Faith Johnson Crumbly, Robert Smith, Peter Prime, Debra Brill, Ron E. M. Clouzet, May-Ellen Colon, Dwain Esmond, J. Alfred Johnson II, Jonathan Kuntaraf, Mark O’Connor, Gary Swanson, Samuel Thomas, Jr. Endorsed by: North American Division and General Conference Sabbath School departments, North American Division Church Resources Center

BIBLE STUDY AND EVANGELISM 50 Quarterly Overview 54 The Book of Numbers (Puzzles) 55 Exegesis and Hermeneutics (Training) 56-58 Exegesis (Applications to Lessons) 59-71 CLAIM (Lesson-based Witnessing) POSTMODERN FOCUS 72-83 A.M. Buzz (Programs) 84-96 Conversations (Lesson Studies)

PERSPECTIVES

Welcome to the Journey pay close attention to metaphors—especially ones about the church. I hear a lot of people use “war and conflict” metaphors: We are fighting evil. We are God’s army, we must take the hill for the kingdom. We must battle against lethargy. We are soldiers, and God is our general. I also hear many family and relationship metaphors: We are a denominational family. You are my brother/sister. This is our church family. We are children of God, the family of God, brothers and sisters in Christ. Business metaphors are around as well: Investment in the kingdom, church mission statements, leadership, the bottom line, counting the cost, spiritual debt, and the treasures of heaven. Our study this quarter invites us to experience a journey metaphor. “People on the Move” is the series title. In many ways, I like this metaphor of faith the best—we are going somewhere. This metaphor reflects that times and situations are always changing, and they are; that there is a purpose to our movements, and that is very true. I like the fact that Jesus says, “Follow Me.” Don’t miss this: To follow implies that we are not static, but dynamic. This is a journey. This is a movement. This involves changing landscapes. I appreciate that in Revelation 14:4 God’s people “follow the Lamb wherever He goes.” Jesus never changes, but He is always on the move, and we should be also. Postmodernism has strengths and weaknesses. Rejection of absolute truth is not so good; insisting on an experience greater than a scientific formula is good. Postmodernism also appreciates a sense of journey. And on this journey we ask questions. We pay attention to where we are and where we are not. We recognize that times change. And Christian postmoderns always “fix their eyes on Jesus,” the tour planner and guide for our pilgrimage. Welcome to the journey—with Numbers, with LEAD magazine, and most important, with the Spirit of Jesus Christ as your guide.

Getting in the Game: Playing Well n an Adventist Frontiers article (January 2009, pp. 8-11) entitled “Don’t Drop the Ball,” Dale Goodson gets to the bottom of the issue of religious education: “Simply laying a foundation [cognitive: Facts] wasn’t enough. What these ‘men of the cloth’ were realizing was the critical importance of building on that foundation.” With feeling (faith) and doing, I might add. Goodson closes his article with an “Amen!” Challenge: “[We] have to think carefully about relevant application of the gospel before [we] start talking about the theory. God intends for [application and theory] to match. Why lay a foundation if we don’t plan to build on it? And whatever we build, we have to make sure the foundation will support it. People of the cloth— evangelists and church members—need to work together for the sake of the lost. We cannot afford to drop the ball” (p. 11). To grow your Sabbath School, you will want to get your members to understand how to build on the foundation of the daily lesson as presented in the Adult Bible Study Guide to match daily lesson principles with the daily news, the hot topics of each day. These vehicles keep ministry “aloft” as Sabbath School members intentionally match these two within the structure of the CLAIM Bible study format in LEAD magazine, pages 59-71 of every issue. Too many of our church members are not in the game— the game of life. They do not share the facts with the lost about the gospel message of a Savior who can help them prepare to meet Him in peace—and with joy—beginning now. The CLAIM Field Game teaches the witnessing process that helps members fulfill the purpose. We’ve got the gospel message. Let’s not drop the ball! Spread the news in an article for publication in LEAD: 500 words and three photos (jpg format) attached to an e-mail to me: fcrumbly@rhpa.org. Take aim. Heave! Score.

Maranatha Faith Johnson Crumbly Editor

Alex Bryan, D.Min., is senior pastor for the Walla Walla University church in College Place, Washington. He lives with his wife, Nicole, and daughter, Audrey.

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Faith Johnson Crumbly is the editor for LEAD and director for LEAD Boot Camps’ intensive training for Sabbath School leaders.

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• LEAD

Southeastern California Conference

FRONT LINES

Heart Training in Southeastern California By Jocelyn Sonsona

heartedly into the training games. They especially enjoyed the Barriers game in which church teams on either side of a barrier of members tried to get a beach ball (seekers) from the world and into the church. Practical lessons were learned about the teamwork of members who had to strategize and get out of their comfort zone to get seekers into the church and also prevent them from getting pushed back out. Continuing Education During the next months, Pastor Rudy Bermudez, Sabbath School director, will coordinate area seminars to emphasize continuing education for class facilitators and ongoing mastery of witnessing

skills. “I was very encouraged to see so many Sabbath School leaders enthusiastically participating in the workshop and eagerly expressing their intention of echoing what they had learned in their respective churches,” he said. One participant commented, “Since the Sabbath School is the heart of the church, I want to see my Sabbath School beat healthily again.” Jocelyn Sonsona reports on Sabbath School workshops for Rudy Bermudez, Southeastern California Conference Sabbath School director.

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Photo Key 1. A, B, & C. Application of information in pairs 2. Triads work to internalize training concepts. 3. and 4. Nearly 200 people were determined to gain and apply strategies for Sabbath School growth. 5. In small groups, Southeastern Conference Sabbath School leaders worked to develop witnessing scenarios. 6 A and B. Superintendents and class facilitators consult about methods to increase their numbers and increase the spirit of teamwork. 7. Rudy Bermudez selected Jocelyn Sansona, center, to lead out in facilitating the LEAD training programs and CLAIM Field Game training for the Southeastern California Conference.

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FRONT LINES

lmost 200 Adult Sabbath School superintendents and facilitators from 40 churches attended this year’s conferencewide adult division Sabbath School workshops on February 21 in the Southeastern California Conference assembly room in Riverside, California. To promote further interaction among the participants, the chairs were arranged in two facing columns to facilitate various activities. Faith Crumbly, LEAD magazine editor, was the main presenter. She shared many ways to help local Sabbath Schools energize current members and win new members. Participants put themselves whole-

FRONT LINES

Southwest Region Conference

Training in Plano, Texas By L. Denise Lee

n January 10, 2009, the Southwest Region Conference (SWRC) held its annual church officers’ training in Plano, Texas. Fifty Sabbath School superintendents, teachers, and Sabbath School supporters met in the Plano Convention Center with one purpose in mind: Improving our Sabbath Schools. Charles E. Sanders, Sabbath School director, distributed a variety of resource materials at the training session including a handbook and a resource catalog. He introduced the 2009 theme, “Sabbath School: Home Front Evangelism.” Elder Sanders encouraged

local leaders by saying: “The military is encouraged not to send our soldiers into the battle zone without the proper education and preparation. Likewise, we must disciple and train our members while on the home front to better survive in and impact the world.” We fellowshipped with other Sabbath School members while engaging in dynamic group discussions. Faith Crumbly, editor of LEAD, shared informational PowerPoint presentations and content quizzes to facilitate the training. She covered topics from how to conduct a Sabbath School class to how to deal with overtalkers.

She also orientated attendees to LEAD, a powerful tool that has a mission to equip, inspire, and disciple local church Sabbath School leaders worldwide. The SWRC director continues to lead brainstorming in area meetings about how to help Sabbath Schools in the Southwest Region Conference improve and grow. Elder Sanders will more fully integrate these ideas into SWRC Home Front Evangelism.

L. Denise Lee is administrative assistant for Charles Sanders, Southwest Region Conference Sabbath School director.

Photo captions 1. Charles Sanders, Sabbath School director for the Southwest Region Conference, connects news items suggested by workshop participants with principles of the lessons, following the CLAIM Bible study format in LEAD magazine. 2. Faith Crumbly facilitates workshops for the Southwest Region Conference training coordinated by Charles Sanders, Sabbath School director. 3. Group representatives report the consensus of a project assigned to their small groups. 4. A local group leader shares insights gained from Sabbath School ministry in his local church. 5. A participant focuses on using the Bible as the source of credibility in class discussions. 6. Workshop participants give their full attention to a response to a question thrown out to the group. 7. Brainstorming yielded many useful ideas shared by local church leaders in the Southwest Region Conference.

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OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• LEAD

Columbia Union

FRONT LINES

Review and Herald Members Train Witnesses By Faith Crumbly

embers of the Hagerstown, Spanish Hagerstown, Williamsport, Smithsburg Valley, Sligo, Gaithersburg New Life, and Atholton churches in Maryland; the Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, church; and the Far West End church in Richmond, Virginia, were active in the training and/or shortened exhibition of LEAD magazine’s CLAIM Field Game held at the Review and Herald Publishing Association on March 16. The Bible Centurions, Scripture Battlers, and the support team—Timekeepers, Scribe, and Judges—ended their eight-week training series with the exhibition game held on Monday morning at the Review. The CLAIM Field Game content is based on the weekly Sabbath School lessons. The game, a witnessing simulation, enables members to “tell their story” by combining lesson principles and the news in a small window of opportunity. No lecturing or “preaching” is allowed as members focus on engaging in credible conversations and managing their stress. Trainees are encouraged to engage their local church members in this game that provides fellowship and fun while train-

ing members to get out and say a word for the Lord every day. After the exhibition game, one attendee commented, “On a Saturday night in the fellowship hall, you could even serve popcorn.” The next scheduled game was a full game with a cheer from the New Joy Company team and loads of fun on Saturday

night, April 18, 7:00-9:30 p.m. Pathfinders sold food, including popcorn. Church members in Bermuda gave CLAIM Field Game training in March. It is reported that members there are talking about developing a league. Faith Johnson Crumbly is editor of LEAD.

Review and Herald Monday chapel, March 16, 2009. Photos by Nick Bejarano

LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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FRONT LINES

Northeastern Conference

On Fire in Jamaica Queens By Lawrence Brown

ore than 75 Sabbath School leaders from 30 churches answered my call to throw tinder on the fire for Sabbath School evangelism and disciple making in a training held April 5, 2009. Superintendents and class facilitators traveled from throughout New England to join leaders in the metropolitan area of New York City.

They shared what has been working in their local schools and gathered solutions for difficulties from one another. Participants were challenged to engage in whole-brain learning: • Identify areas in which they could personally apply the new skills. • Within 24 hours share the details with a church member not at this training, beginning within one’s home—or even Tossing on the Kindling in the car on the drive home from New officers spoke a bit about their felt Queens. needs and what they brought to the • Follow through quickly by giving a ministry. Then immediately participants workshop for their local Sabbath joined in gathering kindling for new School team and all other Sabbath officers who had not attended the School supporters. Share new infortraining in Albany. mation from the stance of a colearner They engaged in an interactive and, thereby, to heighten the team discussion to explore the reasons for spirit. Sabbath School in the Seventh-day • Move it! Incorporate new information Adventist Church. They identified the and skills gained at the training with what they brought to the training. Participants were given full authority to duplicate all handouts given at the training except the second quarter 2009 LEAD magazine. They were shown the connection in LEAD to Web site video clips and told how to access Lawrence Brown observes Sabbath School training from the back of the room. Photo by Edward Crumbly, Jr. PowerPoint prerole of the Holy Spirit in the Adult sentations and other useful materials at Bible Study Guide curriculum. They leadmagazine.org. listed concrete evidence of the Holy Spirit’s provision for Sabbath School Fanning the Sparks members’ spiritual growth and their Workshop participants began to use support for developing witnessing some of their new skills during the trainopportunities through the lessons. ing in activities and games. 6

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• “Observation” focused on the importance of understanding body language as a tool to enrich interpersonal communication, especially in class discussions and daily witnessing. • “The Mirror” was used as a fun method of enabling leaders to feel how intelligent and competent adults can feel when required to follow another person quickly and completely—but without permission to give their input. The Mirror also caused leaders to reflect on whether their comfort level is higher as a leader or a supporter. After a tasty repast and moments of fellowship, energized leaders threw the last load of timber onto the fire. Involvement in the exhibition class CLAIM Field Game as Scholars, Athletes, or Judges—and from the safety of a seat in the audience—revealed to each person their need to move their personal witnessing from “lecture to ’em” and “preach at ’em” failures to thoughtful spiritual conversations for Christ. Sharing lesson principles in first person singular enabled leaders to see and hear their tendency to tell everybody else’s story rather than their own story as well as try to talk for and think for other people. Hearing Scholars work to link current events with lesson principles showed the efficiency of the CLAIM method in establishing common ground to connect to spiritual principles. By 3:30 p.m. there was a full training conflagration in the Northeastern Conference office. With careful followup, I intend to help local Sabbath School leaders not only maintain the fire but cast sparks that get fires going throughout Northeastern Conference. Lawrence Brown is Sabbath School director for the Northeastern Conference.

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09 • LEAD

Resources for Your Sabbath School

FROM THE SHELF

How to Integrate the Book Simply Put gives young people, veteran Adventists, and anyone who is interested in what the Bible teaches support for their community outreach. The subject matter is basic to the Christian life, and the principles foster an attitude of personal responsibility for studying and sharing the truths of the Bible.

Bible Marking Guide By John Earnhardt This little guide outlines an easy Biblemarking system that chain references texts on 38 topics. Using only a Bible, anyone can share the life-changing answers to questions about important spiritual matters. Additional notes are included that explain difficult or complex subjects. This Bible-marking system was originally developed by John Earnhardt for his own use as an aid in giving Bible studies. How to Integrate the Book A valuable resource in just 32 pages intended to spread the gospel. New members will find this guide helpful for continuing their spiritual growth. People who normally shy away from answering questions about their faith will be happy to let the Bible speak for itself. Rated: ★★★★★

Rated: ★★★★

FROM THE SHELF

Simply Put: What God’s Been Saying All Along By Loron Wade This book covers the 28 fundamental beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church—with a twist. Instead of expounding on the theological implications of each belief, the author presents the material as integral parts of a message that God has been trying to get across to us for thousands of years. Easy to read and understand, this book is full of stories and anecdotes that illustrate deep, soul-searching truths. The practical guidance found within its pages will be of benefit to anyone who has a pulse.

Building Strong Congregations By Bruce Wrenn, Philip Kotler, and Norman Shawchuck The process of developing a strong congregation is basically the same as constructing a building: Start with a plan and good tools. Building Strong Congregations provides the tools necessary to make any congregation’s ministry more effective. Worksheets after each chapter help the reader find answers unique to their organization for important questions such as: What is our congregation’s mission? What does our congregation have to offer? How would our congregation meet the needs of the people who choose to associate with it? How to Integrate the Book This book focuses primarily on helping a congregation learn God’s specific mission for them, equipping church members to carry out this mission, and connecting with the people who must be reached. Just as one person cannot erect a church building alone, one person cannot build a strong congregation alone. Many readers must join forces. Rated: ★★★★ All products featured may be purchased at your local ABC or online at www.AdventistBookCenter.com.

LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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Michigan Conference

PROFILES

A Small Church Moves Forward By Jennifer Searfoss

ome Sabbaths we have only the church. Just two six of the 15 adult members weeks before his visit of the West Branch church with us, he had given his at worship, and only from three to heart back to God. And five of us regularly participate in the that is how he had come adult Sabbath School class. Our to worship with us. church went through a shaking Tony accepted the experience about two years ago. role of the witness and Nevertheless, God promises that Brother Canter portrayed where two or three are gathered in an evolutionist. The His name He will be with them. We resistance of the evolucling to that promise, and it moves tionist gave Tony a us forward and keeps us “there” for chance to reaffirm his others looking for a place where God recent decision to put his is central in worship. I am Jennifer hope back in God. Using Searfoss, the Sabbath School super- Jennifer Searfoss, Sabbath School superintendent for the church the CLAIM format, the in West Branch, Michigan, chats with a guest, Earl Canter. intendent at West Branch. Let me witness responded to the share with you some of the activities of our small church. C question: Connect: Why should I study this lesson? (“Hope” • Since West Branch members comprise one of the smaller was that week’s study.) I am thrilled with the CLAIM Bible groups in our pastor’s district—including Grayling and Mio, Study format in LEAD and do plan to use it more often. I also Michigan—the pastor speaks at our church on the first and value the “Hands On” ideas for engaging tactile and kinesthird Sabbaths of each month. Our worship service starts at thetic learners that are printed in LEAD. 9:00 a.m. and is followed by Sabbath School that is in sesElder Fred Earles, Michigan sion from at 10:30 a.m. until around noon. We dedicate Conference Sabbath School about 35 minutes to addressing the lesson. director, organized training for • On the second Sabbath of the month, class members Sabbath School leaders at Camp watch a video such as “Winsome Witnessing,” by Gary AuSable in Grayling. At that Gibbs, or the Voice of Prophecy’s “Church meeting in March, I participated Tony Walls chose Wounds and How to Heal Them.” We discuss as a Judge in the CLAIM Field to participate in the video and how to apply the principles Game, and that gave me anothSabbath School at West Branch when taught. er method to train members in he recommitted • I facilitate role playing during the class session witnessing. I gained many more his life to God. on the third Sabbath of the month. This involves ideas to use in my Sabbath asking the adults to portray either a witness or School ministry, and I’m applythat person’s non-Adventist friend, colleague, or family ing them as God leads in trainmember. The CLAIM Bible study format helps organize this ing and mentoring a future Sabbath School superintendent. activity. We use the Integrate: Doable question format, Despite the challenges of being in a very small group of “How do I use and share the principles of this lesson for my believers, West Branch members continue to thrive—not just own spiritual growth and share them with other people?” survive. Perhaps this is one of the reasons that one of my I wrote this article following the participation of two visitors favorite sayings is: “What I see convinces me God exists; in witnessing simulation. Earl Canter is a settled Adventist What I cannot see, confirms it.” who had attended in the past. The younger gentleman, Tony, was a firsttime visitor who had recently been displaced due to Jennifer Searfoss is Sabbath School superintendent for the church in West Branch, Michigan. the economic turndown and so had moved to our area. He had been an Adventist in his youth, but had fallen away from 8

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OCT, NOV, DEC ’09 • LEAD

Florida Conference

PROFILES

New Methods Produce Big Change By Courtney Stolin

The Follow Through The Sabbath after the training, I sat in the class taught by Earl Prest, a retired Seventh-day Adventist pastor. Elder Prest had always used the lecture method, but this Sabbath he smoothly drew class members into the discussion. Many voices were heard that had previously been silent, because he used some new and productive techniques. After the class session, I asked Elder Prest where he had gotten his new methods. His face glowed as he held up the LEAD magazine that had been distributed to all workshop participants on the past Sabbath. “It’s all in here!” His voice matched the glow on his face. Pastor Ralph Henderson noted that he had also seen changes in the way that some facilitators are doing Sabbath School since participating in the LEAD magazine training. He continued by saying: “The area of most benefit to me was learning how to make my youth class more interactive by following the same principles of facilitation taught to the faciliLEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

PROFILES

arch 13 and 14, 2009, was a magnificent weekend of change for Sabbath School members at Plymouth-Sorrento church in Apopka, Florida. We had an intensive Friday night and Sabbath daylong training that made a difference in our Sabbath School that is both visual and audible. We learned new Sabbath School nomenclature and explored concrete ways of identifying the Holy Spirit’s leading in the study topics that are in the Adult Bible Study Guide for each week. We learned how to apply principles in the daily lesson to the news—and to talk about them. In doing activities that had us work in small groups and in pairs, we focused on the importance of being observant class facilitators, noting the body language of people to check their understanding, their agreement—or disagreement, their joy and stress level. We recognized the importance of being followers or supporters as well as leaders. Some leaders found that they truly enjoyed following others who have different temperaments and personalities. Others expressed that following their partners in the Mirror activity enabled them to engage in new experiences that they would not have initiated on their own. Workshop participants focused on including tactile and kinesthetic options in the daily lesson discussion for adults. We discussed and tried out practical and fun methods of enabling members to use their large muscles during class discussions.

Earl Prest, a retired Seventh-day Adventist pastor, discovered some class facilitation methods in LEAD magazine that gets his class members involved, including his wife, Charlotte, in strategizing about the lesson. And that wowed his superintendent, Courtney Stolin (standing).

tators for adults. I especially liked the method of getting people into small groups and talking about the lesson before talking to the group as a whole. This enables the ones who are not willing to talk in front of the large group to participate in a less threatening environment. I am also using these principles in my weekly prayer meeting sessions.” Next Steps Whew! The LEAD magazine training produced more results than I had imagined. And the Sabbath School leadership at Plymouth Sorrento isn’t done yet. We’re eager to continue moving forward. At this writing, our Sabbath School committee will be meeting next to work on implementing more concepts from our weekend training. Courtney Stolin is Sabbath School superintendent for the PlymouthSerrento church in Apopka, Florida.

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Central States Conference

PROFILES

Serious About Class Facilitation By Patrick Kevin Williams

facilitators’ meetings, and the Sabbath School as a whole. So the next step in forwarding the class facilitators’ meetings occurred in 2008 when I began to record them digitally in the church boardroom and place podcasts on the Internet. Scrambling Over Bumps in the Road The greatest challenge has been the technical side of this ministry. Last year prior to placing the meetings on a podcast site, the meetings were recorded in several six-minute audio file formats in chronological order and then sent out in increments via e-mail to those on the church e-mail list. Listeners downloaded each six-minute audio file for their own instruction but reported that downloading each was a bit cumbersome. So pkwsabbathschoolwrap.podbean.com was established in October 2008, with the assistance of an Adventist friend, Felisa Del Carmen Preciado of State College, Pennsylvania. This method of training has proved effective. Patrick Kevin Williams is Sabbath School superintendent for Sharon church in Omaha, Nebraska: pkweducator@aol.com.

n the mid-1980s the weekly gatherings of teachers to study together the lesson for the coming week were called Teachers’ Meetings, and they were “alive and well” in the Sharon church in Omaha, Nebraska. Back then the teachers both from the adult and the children’s levels met together for an hour on Friday evenings to discuss the adult lesson for the next week. During the mid-1990s the meetings stopped, but in 2004 Armatha King, the new superintendent, revived the meetings as Wednesday evening sessions held just before Prayer Meeting. In 2005 I became Sabbath School superintendent and continued facilitating the meetings. Then in 2007 I arranged to have the sessions recorded on audio tapes. At the Central States leadership workshops for Sabbath School leaders facilitated by Elder Jack Morris, then Sabbath School director, I was impressed with the concept of distributing the meetings electronically. The ideas and resources acquired at the LEAD workshops arranged by Morris were major factors in the growth of the Sharon church, the class

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OCT, NOV, DEC ’09 • LEAD

Columbia Union

PROFILES

LEAD Partnerships By Marjorie Chambers amuel Thomas, Jr., who facilitates special projects for the Review and Herald, developed the LEAD Consumer Response Council in counsel with the LEAD staff and team. The council began reviewing LEAD magazine in April 2008 and suggested some ways to increase the reader-friendliness and usefulness of the magazine Council members have met at the Review and Herald in April and by conference call in October of each year. Participants not available for the photo with this report include Buford Griffith, Sabbath School director for Southwestern Union Conference; Darrell Chambers, counsel in the Attorney General’s office for the District of Columbia; and Phyllis Washington, director of North American Division Children’s Ministries. Council member Nick Bejarano, marketing manager for the Review and Herald Periodical Department, was camerman for the group photos with this report. I am the recording secretary for the council and the LEAD Advisory.

Advisory The LEAD Advisory meets twice each year at the Review and Herald Publishing Association to give guidance and affirmation to the LEAD staff and team. Their support has ranged from developing Sabbath School officers’ nomenclature to brainstorming the LEAD mission statement and methods to achieve those goals to benefit Sabbath School leaders in the worldwide church.

1. The LEAD Consumer Response Council: Back row, from left: Fred Earles, Sabbath School director, Michigan Conference; Evelyn Griffin, Williamsport, Maryland, church; Rick Remmers, senior pastor, Hagerstown, Maryland, church. Center: Mark Brown, head elder, Gaithersburg, Maryland, church; Amy Prindle, assistant communication director, Mid-America Union. Front row: Marjorie Chambers, secretary, LEAD; Dionisio Olivo, Sabbath School director, Atlantic Union Conference; Faith Crumbly, editor, LEAD.

2. The LEAD Advisory: Front row, from left: Phyllis Washington, NAD Children’s Ministries; Faith Crumbly, editor, LEAD; Carla Baker, NAD Women’s Ministries; Marjorie Chambers, secretary, LEAD. Back Row: Richard Tooley, vice president, Periodical Division, Review and Herald Publishing Association; Gary Swanson, associate director, GC Sabbath School and Personal Ministries; J. Alfred Johnson II, NAD Adult Ministries; Oscar Hernandez, sales, Review and Herald. Not available for the photo: Jonathan Kuntaraf and May-Ellen Colon, associate directors, GC Sabbath School and Personal Ministries; Sung Kwon, NAD Community Services; and Ron E.M. Clouzet, director, NAD Ministerial.

LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Marjorie Chambers is the editorial secretary for LEAD.

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WORLD MISSIONS Pictures and Promises By Barry Oliver

ears ago I remember one particular Thirteenth Sabbath Offering project that went toward an extension to the library at Fulton College. I’ve been to the library myself and have seen the students using the facility and their obvious appreThis 12-seater aircraft was purchased with the last Thirteenth Sabbath Offering given by brothers and ciation of your sup- sisters in the worldwide church. port through that Thirteenth Sabbath Offering. Sabbath Offerings have people have had a tremenThe larger facility means a made a huge difference in dous capacity to learn simgreat deal to Fulton College. our division. With your help ply by listening, but today Fulton College graduates this quarter, we anticipate it the younger children are have been and are the leaders will continue to do so. growing up in a more conof our church in the South temporary society and are Pacific. Graduating with Picture Rolls more used to the visual degrees in business, teaching, This quarter we have two stimulation. and ministry, these members’ projects. One has to do with contributions to the work of God providing resources for chilFulton College are too great to be estimated. dren’s ministry so children in The second project again The last Thirteenth Sabsmall villages and towns of focuses on Fulton College. bath Offering we received the Pacific will have Picture We now have a situation in helped with our aviation proRolls to help them underwhich it’s necessary for us to gram in Papua New Guinea. stand the stories of the Bible relocate Fulton College, and We were able to purchase a and the good news. we have been able to pro12-seater aircraft that has While it’s true that we cure a beautiful piece of made an absolutely incredilive in an age of technology, land. The Lord has led thus ble difference to our work. many of the areas where far. However, many millions For example, we are able to we’re working simply don’t of dollars are required to transport our people into have resources to use that actually put up a high stanremote highland villages. We technology. So a simple dard teaching facility that are able to transport goods. Picture Roll is tremendously will provide tertiary educaWe are able to do medical effective in these areas. tion in business, theology, work. We are able to reach Now it is true that many of and education into the into areas it would otherwise the cultures in which we future. So this project is a be impossible to reach. work are aural or hearing high priority for the South So previous Thirteenth cultures. Traditionally these Pacific Division. 12

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Worldwide Work There is something very special and unique about our church that we have a worldwide organization that helps members meet the needs in areas other than their own field of ministry. Many denominations can’t do that, because they don’t have a worldwide structure or the capability of mounting a program such as the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering. The Seventh-day Adventist Church does, and meeting the needs of others has been part of who we are. This gives us a sense that together we’re contributing to something worthwhile. And when we see the results of our offering, we can all say as a worldwide church, “Yes, we had a part in it. We own that. That’s ours.” The progress of other areas brings all of us a tremendous sense of satisfaction and togetherness. For more information about the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering projects and mission in the South Pacific Division, I invite you go to our Web site: www.AdventistMission.org. Barry Oliver is president of the South Pacific Division.

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WORLD MISSIONS A Crack of Light for a Drug Smuggler By Mark Finley

that seemed to surround him. He longed for a way out. A Crack of Light One morning Drumond woke up in a cold sweat. He thought he was going to lose his mind. He knew that he needed a change, but where could he find help? Alone in his room, he pled: “God, I am helpless. If You are there,

deliver me.” Almost immediately, he felt a sense of hope. Certainly all of his problems were not solved that morning in his room alone, but a ray of light penetrated the gloom that settled over him. During the next months, God led him back to Nigeria. Wondering what to do with his life, he enrolled at Babcock University, our Seventh-day Adventist institution of higher learning. Through the influence of godly teachers and Christian friends, Drumond discovered the God he had been looking for all of his life, a God who he learned loved him immensely. In March of 2009 Drumond attended my satellite evangelistic series transmitted via the Hope Channel at Babcock University. One night I preached on Jesus as the divine Savior who longed to completely transform our lives with His divine power. I

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pointed out that Jesus’ power was sufficient to give victory over the habits of the past. Drumond responded to my altar call and came forward, crying out to God to completely rebuild his shattered life. He claimed the promise of God: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; . . . all things have become new” (2 Cor. 5:17). During the Nigeria Hope Channel evangelistic series, Drumond was one of 40,000 people in West-Central Africa who were baptized at one of 7,000 downlink sites in churches and homes. God is on the move in Africa today. Almost one third of the worldwide Adventist Church lives in Africa. Of the church’s 16 million baptized members, there are more than 5 million Africans. Today let’s thank God for the conversion of an African drug smuggler and for what God is doing through the power of His Word on the African continent. *The name in the story has been changed to maintain confidentiality.

Mark Finley is a vice president for the General Conference.

WORLD MISSIONS

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rumond* was caught in a web he had spun for himself. He was entangled so deeply in hardcore drugs that it seemed impossible to get himself out. When he began selling to make a little extra money, it seemed innocent enough—to him. Although he never really felt comfortable living a double life, he convinced himself that what he was doing was only for a short time to earn some needed additional income. So he tried to put out of his mind the harm he was doing to others. But gradually Drumond became addicted to the drugs he was peddling, so he needed even more money. Drumond’s life quickly spun out of control. He became part of a major drug smuggling ring in Nigeria, shipping to Europe through a transit point in Ireland. He was given a key position in the gang, serving as the liaison between the African drug smuggling group and their European counterparts. So he moved to Europe and began living the life of his dreams. He had all the money he needed and more. His life was a continual party. But something was missing. He did not have any purpose for living. And he was destroying himself. His health was rapidly dete-

LIGHT AMERICA MISSION

The Literature Connection By Dale Thomas

ail began studying the Bible with Edith, a lady in her 90s who lived in a remote community where there was no Adventist church. Gail and Edith would meet in the park, and after the Bible study they distributed literature. However, when Gail decided to return to her Catholic husband, her contact with Edith ended. But Gail held the truth in her heart and kept a copy of the Great Controversy close at hand. About this time an Adventist layman felt a great burden for the small town where he was raised. He tried to get a Bible worker or literature evangelist to go there, but that didn’t happen. Finally, he decided to ask the post office to bulk mail some beautiful magazines to every resident in the area—the very area where Gail and her Catholic husband were living. Back in Touch Gail received one of the magazines and wrote asking for more literature. She also complained that she did not appreciate the magazine attacking other churches, especially the Catholic Church even though she was not a Catholic herself. She received a nice reply letter explaining that the publishers did not intend to attack anyone. She read that they were simply sharing some historical 14

had been in touch with the local Adventist church where she lived, she replied, “Oh, yes! I have already been there on two Sabbaths!” Then she went on to explain how friendly the memGail Storring and her pastor, James Anderson, of the Peterbers were and how boro church in Ontario, Canada much she liked the facts and some information “heavenly” music. And “they about the future that are in har- even put the words up on the mony with Bible prophecy. screen so I can follow along A few months later Gail easily,” she said. Then she wrote an exciting letter saying added, “They have a really that she had attended a healthful buffet lunch, too!” Seventh-day Adventist camp Gail and the local church meeting and had really enjoyed pastor began studying together, herself. She had never been to and she was soon baptized. a meeting where she felt more She continues to share all the of the presence and power of books and literature she can the Holy Spirit. Again she get, as she used to do with requested more literature. Edith in the park. Edith is About this time, Gail and awaiting the Lord’s return, but her husband parted ways perwhat a happy surprise it will manently. She moved to a small be to meet Gail in heaven and city where one of her daughters learn the rest of the story. And was living, and she hoped to the layman who mailed those find some Adventist Christians magazines to the people there. She sent a small donawhere he grew up will also be tion and a very sweet letter ask- surprised to see the results of ing for still more literature, his generosity. especially another copy of the Great Controversy, because her Your Story book was falling apart. Inspiration says: “There are many places in which the voice Food for Body and Spirit of the minister cannot be heard, After receiving the book and places which can be reached other materials, she called to only by our publications—the say thanks. When asked if she books, papers, and tracts filled leadmagazine.org

with the Bible truths that the people need. Our literature is to be distributed everywhere.” Then Ellen White adds, “We know not what may be the results of giving away a leaflet containing present truth” (Colporteur Ministry, pp. 4, 5). Gail is living proof that literature works. Literature can reach those who may not be reached any other way. You, too, can be one of God’s messengers of hope by sharing literature wherever you go. If your local church does not have the literature you are looking for, visit your local Adventist Book Center or call 1-800-765-6955. For information about bulk mailing The Great Controversy, call 301393-3000 or 1-800-777-2848 for the special magazines. For more information about Light America Mission, call 301-393-4120. You may donate to Messengers of Hope online: www.messengersofhope.org. This is the Year of Evangelism. Don’t just be an Adventist—be a Messenger of Hope! Dale Thomas is the associate director for Light America Mission and Messengers of Hope Ministry located at the Review and Herald Home Health Education Service.

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INVESTMENT Opportunity “Knocks” By Carlyle M. Bayne

he Sabbath School Investment Fund is a plan through which each member of God’s family may give something: money, work, time, or whatever he or she wants to dedicate to God in a special way. The investor can dedicate the profit to God for the finishing of His work. There are many reasons why we should invest: 1. Investment brings blessings to participants. 2. Investment gives new inspiration to the Sabbath School. 3. Investment keeps us always conscious of God’s presence. 4. Investment brings man into partnership with God. 5. The Sabbath School that promotes the Investment Fund is a lively school. As Sabbath School members we should participate in soul winning. God is a generous paymaster; He gives us much more than we deserve. God wants to give us even more, and He has provided opportunities through which we can show our loyalty to Him. He has many blessings in store for those who cheerfully give generously for the support of His work. If we return to Him a part of what He has blessed us with, He does open the windows of heaven, and we receive “good measure, pressed LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

down, shaken together, and running over” (Luke 6:38). Let us invest for God. He will supply the profit, and we will have money for the advancement of His cause on earth. Let us prove Him! Miguelina Genao is secretary for the Central Dominican Conference.

“We must not enter into the Lord’s work haphazard and expect success. The Lord needs men of mind, men of thought. Jesus calls for coworkers, not blunderers. God wants right-thinking and intelligent men to do the great work necessary to the salvation of souls” (Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 67).

very time that Investment is promoted at church, many members decide to develop a project. However, there are also those who, after making this decision, don’t follow through because they do not find a project to develop.So I would like to suggest an interesting Investment project that surely will give much satisfaction. Let us read the citation: The project of Investment that I will explain includes both points. Here is the project: Buy copies of the Bible in Christian bookstores near your locality and sell them to any of the following groups: • Relatives who have not been converted • Neighbors • Friends • Work associates • Study groups • Authorities: mayor, councilmen, inspectors, policemen • Salespeople. Sell the Bible at a higher but still reasonable price. You will be obtaining financial gains that you can share or give totally to God’s work. In this way you also will contribute to the church’s needs. Furthermore, you can also offer with the Bible The Faith of Christ, or any other course of doctrine. This will allow you to testify of your

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faith, get to know Christ, and as the citation says, give you the opportunity to share the last message . . . that should be preached throughout the world. In addition, your circle of friends will become larger, and many souls will be able to accept Christ as their Savior. Think about the multiple benefits of this project. Begin to pray to God now, and start this labor. Watch unexpected results flourish.

Edgar Redondo is Personal Ministries director for the Colombian Union.

Carlyle M. Bayne is the director of Sabbath School and Personal Ministries for the InterAmerican Division. These articles are an adaptation of articles in the Inter-American Division journal On Course, No. 4, 2008.

LEADERS’ CORNER Be Irresistible Leaders By Rose Gamblin

s it possible to be the kind of leader that people naturally gravitate toward—to be irresistible? The study of leadership has become a recognized science. We understand that good leaders can become better leaders by examining their own leadership styles through different perspectives. There are four main perspectives to consider—structural, human resource, political, and spiritual. Every time you face a leadership dilemma, filter it through these four perspectives. The structural perspective deals with policies and procedures. The human resource perspective considers the human beings of the organization. The political perspective negotiates for resources, such as power, money, and space. The spiritual perspective fuels the vision and supports the shared values of the group. Consider the following church board meeting scenario.

The Showdown About a half hour into the monthly church board meeting the head elder announces that he thinks the Sabbath School leader of the primary class is teaching heresy. The assistant primary Sabbath School leader immediately comes to the defense of her colleague. The pastor, a peaceloving man, starts looking nervously from side to side as members start whispering. If you were the Sabbath School superintendent, what would you do? • A structural perspective. You might ask for the issue to be tabled. You can ask with confidence, because you have a clear understanding of Robert’s Rules of Order, the Church Manual policies, and the Matthew 18 principle. Welldefined organizational structure can prevent or minimize conflict. • A human resource perspective. You would be able to support your primary Sabbath School leader because you have spent time with him or her and their team. You know what they are doing and teaching. This is an example of proactive leadership. You cannot defend something or someone you don’t know. Your tone and manner will go far in calming any fears that your primary Sabbath School leader is teaching heresy. • A political perspective. You realize that nothing is ever what it appears to be. You understand that the head elder feels he is doing the right thing, but it may be for the wrong reason and vice versa. You use measured words and actions so as not to sound accusatory or defensive. Prior to this

meeting you have taken the time to build strong relationships with members of the board. In a politically charged church, the relationship—with others and with God—is the most important leadership tool. • A spiritual perspective. You remember that the head elder is also loved by God and that part of your mission is to mentor and nurture him or her: “For there is no partiality with God” (Rom. 2:11). You are praying and asking God to help you—as the leader—bring the vision and purpose of the Sabbath School ministry back into “focus.” The word “perspective” can be interchanged with the word “focus.” After the board meeting a drawing appears on the dry erase board in the room. In the middle of the drawing is a trembling little church with scared window-eyes looking upward. Surrounding the little church are crudely drawn caveman-style people, each holding a club and beating on the little church. Each club has a label: Gifts of the Holy Spirit, Wisdom, Speech, Kindness, Time, Health, and Money. At one side of the drawing is a man holding an “Influence” club. He is in full swing, but he isn’t aiming for the church— his swing is horizontal. He is going to “take out” those who are using their gifts to beat up on the little church. Underneath the drawing is a caption: “See Christ’s Object Lessons, pages 325-365.” Is it possible that leaders often wield their gift of leadership—influence—like a weapon? Inspiration tells us that real power comes from God and that “the silent witness of a true, unselfish, godly life [will carry] an almost irresistible influence” (ibid., p. 340). The next time you are in one of those challenging leadership moments, filter it through the structural, human resource, political, and spiritual perspectives. By making this your practice, you will become an irresistible leader.

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Rose Gamblin is an adjunct professor at Pennsylvania State University—Mt. Alto.

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LEADERS’ CORNER Missions Mission Week, New Edition A free curriculum from Adventist Mission

dventist Mission has created a second edition of Mission Week to help you teach children that they are vital to the work of the church, and they can be involved right now. The flexible curriculum has been designed to maximize student participation. With minimal guidance, students can present the programs to the class. This free resource contains five complete programs with everything you need to introduce children to today’s mission challenges and opportunities: scripts, stories, PowerPoint, and video clips. The programs cover church planting, radio ministry, medical mission work, pioneer mission work in new areas, and serving the blind. If you would like to receive a complimentary Mission Week program, call 1-800-648-5824, or access the program online at www.missionweek.AdventistMission.org.

Sabbath School Companion Book In the Shadow of the Shekinah God’s Journey With Us After delivering the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, God had to teach them how to live and journey with Him. Centuries of bondage took a toll on His chosen people, and He worked patiently to turn their hearts to Him—despite their chronic rebellion and incessant grumbling. So how could the Israelites possibly question whether God was among them? They had seen His presence, heard His voice, and eaten the food He provided. Yet they were inclined to act as if they had never “gotten the memo”! Roy Gane fills in background details that help us understand the Israelites’ wilderness experience and God’s sometimes puzzling decisions. The readers’ journey parallels that of the Israelites, and readers learn the same lessons before entering the Promised Land.

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LEADERS’ CORNER

The Author Roy Gane is a professor of Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near Eastern languages. He is director of the Ph.D., Th.D., and M.Th. religion programs at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University. He and his wife, Connie, a Mesopotamian archaeologist, live in Berrien Springs, Michigan, with their daughter, Sarah.

Series Theme: Canadian Thanksgiving

PROGRAMS

The Harvest of Ruth and Boaz Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I am so happy to see all of you here. During this time of harvest celebration, I think of a fitting Old Testament story. (Name of participants) will tell the story. Speaker 1: A homecoming should be a wonderful opportunity to brag a little about one’s children and accomplishments. However, when my mother-in-law and I entered her hometown, she shied away from the warm greetings of her kinswomen. She felt God had brought her home desolate and empty. I wanted to remind her that she wasn’t alone—for I understood. There was plenty of activity in Bethlehem, as it was the beginning of the barley harvest. So following Jewish tradition and receiving my mother-in-law’s blessing, I prepared to go to the fields to gather kernels of barley left by the reapers. After I gleaned a little and did not find much, a kind woman invited me to come with her to another part of the field where I gathered handfuls. The morning seemed especially long, and my back hurt terribly. At the noonday meal, I sank down beside my new friend under a tree and smiled at my little bulge of grain. I would need to double the bundle for a loaf of bread. Thoughts of my mother-in-law’s smile eased my tiredness. When an older and obviously wealthy man walked toward us, I quickly started studying the ground. I looked up when I heard my name. This man, the owner of the field, seemed to know my situation and assured me that he didn’t mind my presence in his field. He even promised to provide protection. He implied that my kindness to my mother-in-law was the reason for his kindness. I thought of his compassionate eyes the rest of the day. That evening, my mother could hardly believe her eyes or her ears. After hearing my story, she, too, praised the Lord. Speaker 2: Ruth’s story beautifully illustrates Galatians 6:9. (Read.) Christians don’t always feel thankful—we may simply feel like giving up. The sermons we listen to, the missions we support, the Christian duties we fill. Do these actions ever seem to lose their lustre? We may be getting only a kernel of results here, a few blessings there. However, when we are diligent God fills our empty hands with tangible blessings: hope, resilience, and endurance. We may need to wade through an uncomfortable hot morning of seemingly slow ministry, but surely we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time. Begin praising God in the morning.

SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 19—“Oh Sing a New Song to the Lord” 565—“For the Beauty of the Earth” He Is Our Song 124—“Therefore the Redeemed” 140—“We Are His” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM Angela Burdick recently moved to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, to join her new husband Brent Burdick, from Lacombe, Alberta. She earned a B.A. in English at Canadian University College. Program Notes: A storyteller dressed in period clothing would be a great visual effect. A youthful woman in the role of Ruth would be most effective. EVANGELISM Lead recitation of “The Radical Prayer” by Dr. Derek Morris: “Lord of the harvest, I earnestly beg You to throw out the laborers into Your harvest, and You have permission to begin with me.”

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“So let's not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don't give up, or quit. . . . Therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith ” Gal. 6:9, 10 (The Message).

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PROGRAMS

Discussion in Small Groups 1. What are the handfuls of barley (responsibilities and blessings) in your life? What surprises could God be leaving you and your church? 2. Are we daily anticipating the grand feast that Jesus, our eager beloved, is preparing for us? 3. Are we joining hands to diligently gather in the Lord’s harvest? Who are we overlooking who may need our service?

Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study

PROGRAMS Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study

Series Theme: Happy Holiday:Thanksgiving

Continuous Thanksgiving: November 26

SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 634—“Come, All Christians, Be Committed” 635—“Lord of All Good”

Read 2 Kings 4:8-37, the Shunammite’s son. 1. Why did Elisha do something special for the Shunammite woman? 2. How would you describe the Shunammite woman to a stranger? 3. How often did Gehazi intercede between the Shunammite woman and Elisha? Why? 4. Did Elisha expect the boy to come back to life? 5. Why does God choose to work through resources we have more than through miracles? 6. What are some inner struggles you have when you ask someone to pray for you?

He Is Our Song 135—“Oh, Fill It Up” 140—“We Are His”

Small Group Discussion: I Give Thanks • For what can I be thankful as I look at the blessings God has given to me? • This week, whom can I give hope through prayer?

Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org

Read 1 Chronicles 16:7-36: David’s psalm of thanks. 1. What are the different ways of expressing thankfulness throughout David’s psalm of thanks? 2. How many different reasons are given for being thankful? 3. What happens to a people when they are in the attitude of thanksgiving? 4. In what ways does nature respond with thankfulness? 5. Why do you think the prophets are so highly esteemed by God? 6. What occasions do you remember when your small group raised up heartfelt thanks?

PROGRAM Don and Ruth James are small group consultants and instructors for the North American Division Evangelism Institute (NADEI) in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Program Notes: You will need to assign one or more people to lead the discussions and the Bible studies. Special soloists or instrumentalists could emphasize the Thanksgiving theme after each short study. EVANGELISM Beginning on November 1, give public thanks from your local Seventh-day Adventist church or congregations to community servants, e.g., letters to school principals, salutes to librarians and sanitation workers in community calendars, letters to the editors of community newspapers, a bouquet of flowers delivered to doctors’ offices or emergency rooms, etc.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“An ounce of love is worth a pound of knowledge”

Small Group Discussion: I Give Thanks • What special thanks can I and others offer this week? • Whom can I help pull out of a negative slump and encourage to lift their hearts and voices to our great God? • What is my favorite thanksgiving song or psalm? Why? Read Luke 17:11-19: leprosy. 1. How did the 10 lepers address Jesus? Why? 2. Is it significant when the 10 were cleansed? 3. Who were the lepers? 4. How does Jesus’ closing statement relate to the nine? 5. What prevented the nine from going back to Jesus and offering thanks? 6. Why do we sometimes find it difficult to offer thanks? Small Group Discussion: I Commit to Give Thanks • I will offer thanks to God on occasions in which I have previously remained silent. • I will share with a new person each day this coming week something for which I am thankful to God. Close with prayer in small groups followed by prayer by the pastor.

(John Wesley, cited by Tanya Wheway in The Sanctuary for the Spirit, p. 76).

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Series Theme: Christmas

PROGRAMS

Gifts: Creative Expression (This program is a sharing of God’s gifts to us and talents developed by church members. Here are the opening and closing selections. Fill in the middle with selections gathered from sign-up sheets given to every class. Host a Vesper service program to include the overflow of participants who signed up and reach members who didn’t attend the Sabbath morning program.) Gift Exchange What to give— What to give To the One who has everything. Something unique, you say, Something that He can’t—or won’t—buy for Himself, you say, Observe Him, listen! You may overhear Him speak a wish— Do I have a letter, you say? A Word from Him? Yes, perhaps He let something drop That I may have missed before . . . Days go by, it snows, The Christmas carols start, Still I'm searching for the perfect gift, Observing Him, Listening to His voice . . . It was in His Letter that I overheard Him say, “My child, give Me thine heart, And I will give you the desires of your heart” (see Proverbs 23:26; Psalm 37:4). The following circular poem conveys the chain reaction of a gift of love. The Gift That Lasts I give a smile to You give a smile to God gives a smile to Someone laughs, It echoes round the World and smiles embracing all The World receives The long-armed gift With joy! Find more poetry by Rhoda Wills at leadmagazine.org\christmas.

Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 142—“Angels We Have Heard on High” 145—“Songs of Thankfulness and Praise” Let There Be Praise 55—“Behold What Manner of Love” 34—“Joy to the World” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM Rhoda Wills, composer of the poetry, is a substitute teacher at Andrews Academy in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Program Notes: At least a month in advance distribute participation sign-up sheets to classes and also promote the program in your church newsletter and on bulletin boards. EVANGELISM Involve your craftpersons in hosting a giftmaking session for people who cannot purchase Christmas gifts due to job loss, etc.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“There are many who seem to imagine that outside observances are sufficient for salvation; but formalism, rigorous attendance on religious exercises, will fail to bring the peace of God which passeth understanding. It is Jesus alone who can give us peace” (Ellen G. White, Review and Herald, Nov. 18, 1890).

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PROGRAMS Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 574—“O Master, Let Me Walk With Thee” 567—“Have Thine Own Way, Lord” He Is Our Song 45—“Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” 123—“Side by Side” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM Cesar Gonzalez is a writer, speaker, and founder of NewDogma.net. He lives with his wife, Grace, and daughters, Selenia and Reina, in Cambridge, Maryland. Program Notes: Find three speakers and a discussion facilitator. Invite discussion on how Seventh-day Adventists can improve our daily walk with God and our outreach. Put only one discussion topic on the screen at a time. EVANGELISM The joy and peace of our Christian experience is what can guide non-Christians to God. Our job is only to bring them to a place where they can hear the Lord’s call. “If you think a friend’s criticism of you is unfounded, ask her to help you see your blind spot” (Kathy Peel, How to Make Someone’s Day, No. 257). THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“A friend means well even when he rebukes you” (Prov. 27:6, The Clear Word).

Series Theme: 28 Fundamental Beliefs

No. 22: Christian Behavior The Friend: Hi. I’m a Christian. The Witness: Hi. I am a super Christian—I’m a Seventh-day Adventist! That’s right, I am part of God’s remnant. It’s so cool being Adventist. We have our own hospitals, schools. We have our own foodstores and bookstores and TV stations. There are so few of us that we all know one another—like a club! We even have our own greeting: Happy Sabbath! The Friend: I believe that Christians should serve just as Christ did. So I volunteer twice a week at a local soup kitchen. The Witness: One time, my next door neighbor—he’s a little old man. We’ve lived next door to him for six years, but I don’t know his name! Anyway, he had a flat tire, but it was Sabbath. I was late to church, so I prayed for him. It worked too! By the time I got up from my Sabbath nap, the tire was fixed! The Friend: I sponsor three children in Latin America, so they can go to school and have enough to eat. The Witness: Alcohol has never crossed my lips! Well, except for that one time at my heathen cousin’s wedding—but that was by mistake. The Friend: I have made a covenant with God to spend time with Him, by reading my Bible and praying every day. I encourage others to do the same. The Witness: I am a fourth-generation vegetarian! In fact, my parents named my little sister Linda . . . after Loma Linda University! The Friend: Every year my family and I take our vacation time to go on a mission trip where we build hospitals and preach the gospel. With God’s help, we have provided thousands of needy people with medical care. The Witness: I know what A-D-R-A stands for! The Friend: Every morning I ask the Lord to give me someone to bring closer to Him. My goal is to be Jesus to those who don’t know Him. The Witness: And I know the Bible, and repeat from memory at least 13 texts at any time. The Friend: Excuse me. Excuse me! The Witness: What! What! The Friend: I’m interested in the Sabbath, and I’d like to ask you some questions. The Witness: Oh, sure. Just let me track down my pastor. The Friend: Surely you can share Bible truth with me! The Witness: (stutters and stammers, then hurries off) Discussion Facilitator None of us want to see ourselves as witnessing. The witness does in this skit. Yet periodically it is a good idea to review just why we witness and how. So let’s take a few moments to talk about these points: 1. Our Motivation: Is it all about Jesus? Or is it all about yourself, or your local church? 2. Our Methods: What are we, and why? Choose from the following list: • cool? • crude? • deep? • shallow? • something else?

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Series Theme: 28 Fundamental Beliefs

PROGRAMS

No. 23: Marriage and the Family Group 1: (Read Hebrews 13:4, NIV.) Created and given to men at the beginning of time, marriage was to be a sacred institution sanctified for the experience of intimacy and companionship. But above all (if biblical principles are followed), marriage was to enable humanity to experience a oneness and cleavage so close that it is likened to the relationship Christ has with His bride, the church. (Read Revelation 19:7; 21:9; Genesis 2:20-23, NIV.) Group 2: God pronounces Adam as “not good” being alone. A key purpose of marriage is companionship. With skillful hands, God caused Adam to sleep and went to create Eve, using Adam’s rib. Many couples miss the important step to marriage in verse 18: “I will make a helper suitable for him.” When God chooses our spouses, we can be sure of success—happiness and a productive team. He knows best, so we need to put Him first, praying about our relationships at the beginning. Small Group Discussions • What are the possibilities that God went away to create Eve rather than do so in front of Adam? • What characteristics of the relationship between Jesus and the church can be applied to a marriage relationship?

Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 326—“Open My Eyes That I May See” 350—“Blest Be the Tie That Binds” Let There Be Praise 146—“The Family of God” 45—“Under His Wings” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org

Group 3: From the first, marriage was intended to be between one man and one woman. Genesis 2:21 states that God took one rib from Adam and closed the place with flesh. The Amplified version says He replaced the rib with flesh and sealed it up. This signifies an enduring companionship between the couple and to one another alone. Look at marriage today. The number of divorces is rising. In 2006 the lowest rate of marriages were recorded in the United Kingdom since records began in 1860. Marriage seems to have lost its significance. As a result, we see the breakdown of the family unit and the result, an unstable society.

PROGRAM Kevin Weier is 26 years of age, married, and has a 3-year-old. He enjoys reading the Bible and allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal new insights to him. Program Notes: Use the program but add other materials by working with your family life department. Have small groups complete the questions and report to the entire group as readings, possibly with mime. Find two readers to close the program.

Open the floor for discussion, using these questions: • What do you think are the main reasons or causes for the poor state of marriage today? • What is your local church doing to help spread the truth about marriage and help heal broken relationships in your community?

EVANGELISM Encourage members to invite a few nonChristian couples to their homes on a Sabbath evening and go through the program.

Group 4: After the two are bound, they are declared one flesh. From this point, they are to begin the journey through life together. But how does a couple become one when they are still two separate beings? (Assign these texts to be read aloud: Genesis 2:24; 1 Corinthians 7:3, 4; Ephesians 5:21-33; Revelation 19:7; Philippians 2:6-8.) Reader 1: Many times in the Bible, marriage is likened to the relationship between Christ and the church. In Philippians 2:7 we read that Jesus made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. (Read.) Reader 2: The Bible teaches us to serve one another as Christ served the church. (Lead an oral reading of Ephesians 5:21, 25.)

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THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“The presence of Christ alone can make men and women happy. All the common waters of life Christ can turn into the wine of heaven. The home then becomes as an Eden of bliss; the family, a beautiful symbol of the family in heaven” (The Adventist Home, p. 28).

PROGRAMS Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 506—“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” 416—“The Judgment Has Set” He Is Our Song 130—“Pass It On” 123—“Side by Side” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM Vernon Waters pastors churches in Pottstown and Norristown, Pennsylvania, for the Allegheny East Conference. He enjoys writing, evangelistic and seminar-style preaching, reading, and running. Program Notes: Program facilitators will need at least four readers for the dialogue, but more could be used. Visual aids: tables, boxes, candlestick, partition or dividers, and a large punch bowl for sanctuary items pictured in these Web sites: seventh-day.org/sanctuary.htm and templebuilders.com/index_tabernacle.php. Divide the room into three sections: outer court, the holy place, and Most Holy Place. EVANGELISM Read The Ministry of Healing, page 143, and post a chart of lessons listed there. THOUGHT FOR TODAY

The sanctuary system: “No other object lesson more aptly depicts God’s involvement with the human race. Taught is God’s interest in our salvation, a resolution of the sin dilemma and a diagram for our spiritual maturity. It is worth our attention” (Vernon Waters).

Series Theme: 28 Fundamental Beliefs

No. 24: Ministry in Heaven Tour Guide (TG) (standing off to one side, and then turning toward some persons waiting): It is now 9:30 a.m. and the first tour of the day is now underway (a group of individuals rush forward). Let’s begin this tour by reading in our guidebook from Hebrews 8:1-5; 9:2-5; 10:4. Here, my friends, we see that the earthly sanctuary was never actually about goats and bulls but about the character and ministry of Jesus Christ. He wants us to know Him personally. Are you ready? Let’s go! (Ask three people to read.) Speaker 1 (stepping inside the sanctuary): Whoa! What is that? (Point to altar of burnt offering.) TG: I was just about to tell you. Right here (standing in the entrance to the tabernacle), persons confessed their sins over the lamb, and it died in place of the confessor. Speaker 2: You mean an innocent lamb died for the guilty? TG: Yes. The lamb represented Jesus. By daily confessing our sins to Jesus, He bears them. (Read 1 Peter 5:7.) Speaker 2: What’s this bowl? TG: The priests used this, a laver, to wash their hands and feet, a symbol of a clean heart before offering the blood of the lamb and entering the inner court. (Read Exodus 30:18-21.) Speaker 1: What does that mean for us? TG: I’m glad you asked. We must surrender ourselves daily to the cleansing power of Jesus, so we can think clean thoughts and live guilt free. Are you ready to go inside now? (Walks toward the holy place.) Speaker 3: This must be the holy place. I see the table of showbread, candlestick, and altar of incense. How do these draw us closer to God? TG: (standing next to the showbread): Jesus is the bread of life. Through daily study of His Word we ingest Him into our lives. The candlestick reveals that Jesus is the light of our lives. Through His Holy Spirit, Jesus is always with us. We should ask for the infilling of His Spirit so that we may have power to obey His Word after having read it. Speaker 2 (at the altar of incense): I suppose the altar of incense gives us a pleasing fragrance? TG: In a matter of speaking, yes. The name of Jesus or His character is what pleases the Father. As we make our requests according to His Word and give our praises, we offer them in the name of Jesus. (Acts 4:12.) Let’s go to the next room. Speaker 1: What is this veil? TG: Let’s read Hebrews 10:19-22 to see what it represents. (Ask someone to read.) Christ veiled His divinity with humanity so that we could behold God face-to-face without being consumed. We should depend on Christ to continue to intercede for us daily. (Points to the ark.) This ark is the fulfilling of Matthew 7:7-11. (Read.) When we have gone through all the other steps, God will give us exactly what we need according to the eternal laws of His infallible government. If we systematically and routinely take these steps daily, we will not rush in and out of God’s presence. Our lives are changed by being with Him. (All kneel while TG leads the audience through the sanctuary prayer steps at leadmagazine.org\prayer.)

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Series Theme: 28 Fundamental Beliefs

PROGRAMS

No. 25: The Second Coming of Christ Let’s read responsively Titus 2:11-15. Coordinator: When Jesus Christ ascended to heaven well over 2,000 years ago, He promised that He would return to rescue His faithful ones. Today’s program is intended to strengthen our belief while we wait and to help us explain credibly why we are called “Adventists.” Speaker 1: Did you know that the apostles and the early Christians considered Christ’s return to be “the blessed hope” (Titus 2:13)? We also can look forward to that day when we will share face-to-face fellowship with the One who laid down His life for our salvation. Speaker 2: Christ’s disciples rejoiced in the promise of His return, even when faced with sorrows. Their hope renewed their courage to face challenges. Such hope also provides courage for Christians who eagerly await His return. Speaker 3: But how certain are we that He will return? Christ promised. (Read John 14:1-3.) And His promises are sure! We find assurance in the fact that He was born just as prophesied in the Old Testament. Christ promises us that He will come quickly. (Read Revelation 22:7.) Speaker 1: Christ’s ministry in the heavenly sanctuary points to the fact that He is preparing for His second coming. Speaker 2: In Matthew 24 Christ gives an account of signs pointing to the imminence of His return. (Ask the congregation to give some of the signs revealed in this chapter.) Speaker 3: As the remnant, we must remember that Christ’s return will be literal. He will descend in the same manner that the men of Galilee saw Him ascend to heaven (Acts 1:11). Speaker 1: So His return will be visible! Christ warned against the idea of a secret return in Matt. 24:24-27. (Read.) And His return will be loud! (If possible, have someone blow a trumpet. Then read Matthew 24:31.) Speaker 2: By the way, when Christ came to the earth the first time, He came in a humble manner, according to Isaiah 53:2-5. But at His second coming, He will come as a conqueror “in the glory of His Father with His angels.” (Read Matthew 16:27.) Speaker 3: At Christ’s return, those who died as faithful Christians will be resurrected at the sound of the trumpet. They will be raised in perfect form and mind—immortal. (Read 1 Corinthians 15:52-54.) Speaker 1: The year, month, day, and hour of Christ’s return will be a surprise— even for the believers. How then are we to prepare? Speaker 2: (Read Matthew 25:1-13.) We must keep our minds and hearts focused on Christ! We must have the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We must be working for His return. This will keep us ready at all times! Your Turn Invite two individuals to share what they are doing to prepare themselves and other people for the soon return of Jesus Christ!

Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 207—“It May Be at Morn” 602—“O Brother, Be Faithful” Advent Hymns 400—“We Know Not the Hour” 395—“Called to the Feast” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM Ferzio Mampwe is a baptized member of Lusaka Central church in Zambia and an active member of the Adventist Youth Society. He works for a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization that serves underprivileged communities in seven of the nine Zambian provinces. Program Notes: Find three speakers and people for “Your Turn” presentations. To allow more time for discussion, project texts on screen rather than have a verbal reader. EVANGELISM Invite your non-Adventist friends to attend this Sabbath School program, and then offer follow-up Bible studies.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“If you think a friend’s criticism of you is unfounded, ask her to help you see your blind spot” (Kathy Peel, How to Make Someone’s Day, No. 257).

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PROGRAMS Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 578—“So Send I You” 512—“Just When I Need Him Most” Let There Be Praise 66—“Draw Me Nearer” 47—“My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM Mark A. Finley is a vice president for the General Conference. Program Notes: Find a storyteller and facilitator. Provide paper and pencil. EVANGELISM Involve the community in a prayer walk throughout designated areas of business (weekdays) and residence (weekends) each week for a month. Involve your church choir or praise team(s). Each prayer group should include vocalists so that five-minute segments of silent prayer can be punctuated with praise singing. Consider ending each walk or the walk series at sites where groups convene and vocalists and instrumentalists lead congregational singing of choruses and hymns as well as offer special music. If city codes are prohibitive, pray silently and display/distribute a list of prayer subjects by name: military service personnel, city officials, city sanitation, the homeless, children, etc.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” (Jer. 32:27).

Series Theme: Follow the Bible Series

Jesus Is Divinely Significant Two lawyers were crossing the state of Kansas by train. One was an atheist. The other was a Christian. As the train rolled on, the atheist said to the Christian: “We are wasting our time in small talk. Let’s talk about one of the most important questions of life. Was Jesus really divine? Is His offer of eternal life real?” The atheist pressed his questions upon his Christian friend with some delight: “Aren’t you a Christian merely because of some geographical accident? If you were born somewhere else, you might be a Buddhist, Hindu, or a Muslim. Wasn’t Christ simply another religious leader like Mohammed?” The Christian lawyer felt extremely embarrassed. He could not answer his friend’s questions. There is no doubt in my mind that these questions need to be answered. Jesus claimed He was much more than a good man. He spoke these words to a group of Jewish leaders, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM” (John 8:58). They clearly understood that Jesus was declaring that He was divine. Exodus uses the expression “I Am” to refer to God. Israel’s leaders were so angry about Jesus’ statement that they attempted to stone Him. Discussion Questions: (Involve the audience in reading the following texts projected on screen, and then give the insight or question provided.) • John 10:30: Repeatedly Jesus declared oneness with the Father. • John 6:51: What is the “living bread” referenced? • John 14:9: How does one see the Father in Jesus? There are really only three choices—or possibilities—when it comes to Jesus. 1. Jesus is who He said He is, the divine Son of God. 2. Jesus was not who He said He was. He was a liar. He knew that He was lying. 3. Jesus was not who He said He was, but He thought that He was. Jesus was a lunatic. The second and third possibilities create enormous problems. How can one say Jesus is a good man yet knowingly lie about His identity? Good men don’t consciously lie about who they are. If He was a liar, how can you explain His high moral teachings? His teaching testifies to the genuineness of His words. And the idea that Jesus was a lunatic or self-delusional has no credibility in any rational mind. Could a delusional man have preached the Sermon on the Mount that is recognized by believers and nonbelievers alike as one of the great peaks of moral and ethical teachings in all of literature? The only logical conclusion is that Jesus is all that He said He was. Truth Heals Prophecies centuries old were fulfilled in Jesus’ birth, life, ministry, death, and resurrection. His teachings have transformed lives for 2,000 years. Accepting His love and grace, millions of people have found forgiveness from the guilt of their sins, new power to live godly lives, and the hope of eternal life. They have discovered strength in times of weakness, comfort in times of sorrow, peace in times of anxiety, and joy in times of pain. They have been encouraged to persevere in the most difficult periods of their lives, because they believed that this divine Christ would fulfill His word and come again as He had promised. Discussion Question True or false: The divinity of Christ is everything to us. (Give the audience a chance to respond. Then wrap up: If He is divine, He can forgive our sins, and we will not perish in our guilt. If He is divine, He can impart power to change our lives. We will not perish locked in the bondage of sin.) leadmagazine.org

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Series Theme: Follow the Bible Series

PROGRAMS

Giving In Versus Giving Up Speaker 1: On one of those hot, sticky, summer afternoons in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in July of 1978, Mark Finley was conducting an evangelistic series in the St. Cecelia’s Music Hall. On this particular afternoon, he and one of the seminary students in the Field School of Evangelism were visiting with a young woman who had been coming to the meetings. As they sat on the front porch of her house reviewing the great truths of the Bible, her boyfriend, a young man in his late 20s, joined them. He became quite confrontational, challenging Pastor Finley in a debating style. Pausing, Pastor Finley calmly said, “Let’s talk about Jesus. Let me share with you how Jesus has changed my life and given me a new peace.” Pastor Finley proceeded to tell the young man about the new life he had found in the saving grace of our Lord. A calmness seemed to sweep over the young challenger. How can one argue about a Christ who forgives sin and transforms lives? Speaker 2: The power of New Testament witnessing was the power of personal experience. Let’s look through 1 John 1:1-3 to find what the apostles shared. (Project text, and have the audience extract answers.) Speaker 1: (Project the two sentences in The Desire of Ages, page 340, beginning with “As witnesses for Christ.”) Let’s look carefully at this statement that begins “As witnesses for Christ, we are to tell what we know.” The word “know” has to do with much more than intellectual or mental knowledge. I can know something about an item without knowing it. I can know the recipe for apple pie, but until I taste it I really do not know apple pie. I can know all the ingredients but never experience the pie until I take a bite. A scientist can study cancer cells throughout his life but will know cancer in a completely different way if he falls victim to cancer himself. Speaker 2: Jesus invites His witnesses to enter into a personal experience with Him and to share that experience with others. You may be wondering where to begin telling the story about Jesus to others. Has He answered a specific prayer request? Share that. Has Jesus given you a sense of peace of mind in some crisis in your life? Has He given you strength over some habit? Has He broken the chains of some besetting sin? Share those. Speaker 1: People may debate doctrine. They may argue about the doctrines of the Bible, but they will usually be open to what Christ has done for you. The testimony of Jesus’ love in your own life is an argument that the most critical cannot refute. (Ask the audience why they would prefer to hear personal experiences rather than theory. Allow several people to respond.) So share Jesus’ love and caring for you. Watch Him work miracles in the lives of other people through your testimony: • Your testimony captures their attention. • Your testimony impresses them with the reality of the gospel. As the old adage goes, “I would rather see a sermon than hear one any day.” • Your testimony helps postmodern and secular people to see how Christianity works. Why not allow God to use you today to encourage someone longing for His love? Application: Invite testimonies of sharing in which the person captured attention by disclosing their personal experience.

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Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 530—“It Is Well With My Soul” 563—“Praise and Thanksgiving” Let There Be Praise 53—“The Wonder of It All” 84—“Give Them All to Jesus” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM Mark A. Finley is a vice president for the General Conference. Program Notes: Use two presenters who give Bible studies or distribute literature as a personal ministry. Project texts and quotations on screen or provide handouts. EVANGELISM Charity begins at home—your family, your neighbors, your community, your country— where you can most easily get to know the people and meet their needs. Host a witnessing brainstorming session in which members practice their witnessing skills. A useful procedural resource: CLAIM Bible study format, pages 59-71 of this issue of LEAD. Useful ideas of personal and group outreach: Northwest Gleaner, May 2009.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“You cannot win if you do not begin” (God’s Little Instruction Book, n.p.).

PROGRAMS Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 522—“My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less” 523—“My Faith Has Found a Resting Place”

Advent Youth Sing 135—“Moment by Moment” 111—“Jesus Is Coming Soon” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM Jeffrey O. Brown is president and Family Ministries director of the Bermuda Conference and author, with his wife, Pattiejean, of Guide to Parenting: On the Winning Team With Your Children. Program Notes: Give a handout with the acronyms G-R-I-P-S and F-R-E-T-S. Involve your Family Ministries team in this program EVANGELISM Arrange a class for parents and other interested adults that teaches them how to explain death to their children.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“Little children are borne by holy angels to their mothers’ arms. Friends long separated by death are united, nevermore to part, and with songs of gladness ascend together to the City of God” (The Great Controversy, p. 645).

Series Theme: Family Ministries

Enemy of the State Flight Attendant (voice from offstage): “If the cabin loses sufficient pressure, a mask will drop down from your overhead compartment. Secure the mask around your head, and breathe normally. If you are traveling with a child or someone who needs assistance, secure your own oxygen mask first, and then offer assistance to your companion.” Speaker 1: Caring adults must help children come to grips with a world turned upside down. Here are some tips: Give your child a comforting toy, a photograph, or a note from you when you’re going to be separated. Reassure your children that you will do your best to keep the family safe and that Jesus is there to protect them. Interpret changes in lifestyle. If your children’s daily routine has been interrupted, let them know it is only temporary. Provide extra physical reassurance. Hug and give a backrub to your daughter; sit close and read a book to your son. Restore for your child a sense of safety. Save phone calls until after their bedtime. Be available for talking with them as much as possible. Speaker 2: When tragedy comes to your children, often they fret. They’re “gasping for air”—so step in. Feeling helpless. Powerlessness is painful for adults as well as children. So reach out in all directions. Write thank-you letters to people who have helped you. This can bring a sense of hope and control. Regression. Younger children may try to return to a stage where they felt safer, e.g., they may wet the bed or ask for a bottle. Older children may fear being alone. Love them; be patient. Eating Disorders. An upset stomach reduces the desire to eat certain foods. Recognize the cause, and be patient. Thinking the event is their fault. Irrational, maybe; but reassure your children that they did not cause the event. Sleep Disorders. They may wake frequently, have bad dreams, or have difficulty falling asleep. Give them a stuffed animal or flashlight to take to bed— and always be sure they talk to Jesus in prayer. Speaker 1: An atheist couple had a child, and they never told their daughter anything about the Lord. One night when the little girl was 5 years old, the parents fought. The dad shot the mom—right in front of the child. Then the dad shot himself. The little girl watched it all. She was sent to the home of a Christian foster mother who took the child to church and told the Sabbath School teacher that the girl had not previously heard about Jesus. On one Sabbath the teacher held a picture of Jesus up to the class and said, “Does anyone know who this is?” The teacher turned away from the little girl so as not to embarrass her. But the little girl quickly raised her hand. Fearing what the girl might say, the teacher acknowledged the child. “I know who that is,” she said. “That’s the man who was holding me the night my parents died.” Thanks be to God for miracles—big ones and the small ones we partner with God in teaching children about Him being there for them in good times as well as the bad. leadmagazine.org

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Series Theme: Family Ministries

PROGRAMS

On the Winning Team Speaker 1: Bible study strengthens mental faculties. Make family worship exciting. Include use of the media. Play Your Story Hour CDs in the car. Play “The Bible Experience” as you take your child to school. Play the CLAIM Field Game, using their Sabbath School lesson. Rules are at leadmagazine.org. As your children grow, they can participate in online Bible activities such as these: • Discover Online (DOL) biblestudies.com. DOL offers online study guides from the Voice of Prophecy Bible School dealing with the Bible’s basic teachings, uncovering what the future holds, and helping to find answers to the issues and challenges you deal with every day. • The Inspirited Network (TIN) northeasterncommunication.org/node/311. TIN is an interactive Bible study resource of the Northeastern Conference, offering video and teleconference Bible classes with the benefit of visual aids such as video, maps, diagrams, and PowerPoint presentations. Speaker 2: Prayer strengthens spiritual faculties. I must communicate often with God: That means listening and talking. Talking is when I speak to God; listening is when God speaks to me. Use the ABC of prayer: A—Ask, Matt. 7:7; B—Believe, Mark 11:24; C—Claim, John 11:41. The Bible has 3,573 promises—claim them all. Speaker 3: Worship strengthens emotional faculties. (Read Heb. 10:25.) Why not inject some creativity into Sabbath School? Be sure your child is in a church where Sabbath School and church worship are attractive. Explore Churches of Refuge (COR) churchofrefuge.org. The mission of COR is to help churches provide meaningful and relevant young adult ministry. The goal is to keep Adventist young adults in the church while also reaching out to those who are not currently participating in an Adventist congregation. Speaker 4: Christian service strengthens physical faculties. Teach and model for your children the value of unselfish service. (Read Matt. 25:40.) As they grow, they can participate in: • Pathfinders pathfindersonline.org. Pathfinders are a worldwide organization of young people sponsored by the Seventh-day Adventist Church for young people of any religious persuasion, or none at all. Pathfinders involves youth in activities that build community pride and encourage involvement through outreach activities. • Office of Volunteer Ministries (OVM) hesaidgo.net. OVM is located at the headquarters of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists and coordinates student missions, taskforce missions, literacy programs, community projects, Bible work, and evangelism. • Operation Reach Back (ORB) operationreachback.com. African-American Adventist young adults and other professionals undertake mission projects to strengthen and solidify the Black community in the North American Division and Africa. • National Association for the Prevention of Starvation (NAPS) napsoc.org is headquartered at Oakwood University and has a branch at Columbia Union College. The program facilitates young people whose goals are to improve education and mitigate hunger, poverty, and disease, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. • Adventist Single Adult Ministries (ASAM) adventistsingleadultministries.org. ASAM is a segment of the North American Division of Family Ministries with a goal of reaching and empowering single adults to create Christ-centered, safe places for fellowship, nurture, and service.

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Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 245—“More About Jesus” 330—“Take My Life and Let It Be” Advent Youth Sing 11—“Can the World See Jesus in You?” 167—“So Send I You” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM Jeffrey O. Brown is president and family ministries director for the Bermuda Conference. Program Notes: Have the backdrop of a relay race, and have four persons pass a baton. EVANGELISM Help your child run the Christian race by strengthening his or her mental, spiritual, emotional, and physical faculties. Partner with local church ministries, e.g., Pathfinders and Sabbath School as well as the church school and public schools in your area to provide information and projects in all four areas of development.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“I don’t know about you, but I’m running hard for the finish line. I’m giving it everything I’ve got. No sloppy living for me! I'm staying alert and in top condition” (1 Cor. 9:26, The Message).

PROGRAMS Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 581—“When the Church of Jesus” 582—“Working, O Christ, With Thee” He Is Our Song 140—“We Are His Hands” 126—“Make Me a Servant” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM May-Ellen Colon is assistant director of General Conference Sabbath School and Personal Ministries and director of Adventist Community Services International. Program Notes: In front of the group, place two bread pans of the same size, one containing a loaf of banana bread and one filled with salt. Cover both with tin foil. EVANGELISM Distribute 2010 calendars (free at Hallmark stores). Ask members to review whether their friendships and business associations are largely with church members, to count how many are and aren’t. Ask: Do you need to make any changes in your social calendar. How can you develop nonchurch friendships?

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“Don’t expect a friend to be perfect. You’re not” (Kathy Peel, How to Make Someone’s Day, No. 235).

Series Theme: Adventist Community Services

Salt Is Not the Whole Recipe! Let’s read Matthew 5:13. “You are the salt of the earth” is about mission. Jesus has called us, the members of His church, to be “salt.” With what—or whom—should this “salt” mix? The people around us—inside the church—and outside. However, we should mix with a mission. (Point to the two covered “loaves.”) Here are two “loaves.” Which one would you prefer? (Show the banana bread.) Here, salt is part of the recipe—and here (the bread pan filled with salt) salt is the entire recipe. (Project the following discussion questions on screen: 1. Which “loaf” do you prefer? Why? 2. How is your church doing with getting out of the salt shaker and mixing with the community? 3. How full is your church’s salt shaker? Is most of the salt still inside? When commercial salt mixes with something or someone, it enhances the ingredients with which it is mixed—like the salt in the banana bread. The church often organizes around itself rather than around the mission in its community. We must come to the point where we nurture a close relationship with Jesus and one another while equipping ourselves to function on His behalf in our neighborhoods. Seventh-day Adventist churches tend to serve relatively few people with their community services compared to other faith groups. In 2001 a world survey of the Seventh-day Adventist Church revealed that only 29 percent of church members are involved with their community outside their church walls. The “Tell the World” initiative introduced by the General Conference is urging a mind-set that will change this statistic. (Hold up the bread pan filled with salt. Project the questions on screen.) Let’s get in groups of four and discuss: 1. How do you know when it’s all about the salt (the “insiders”) and that the “outsiders” don’t matter? (Church board minutes reflect mostly “in house” issues: arguments over music, and the color of carpets. Theology focuses on “I’m So Glad Jesus Lifted me!” Focus is on preparing for heaven but doing nothing for the community. There is infighting as expressed in Isaiah 58, etc.) 2. If our church suddenly disappeared from our community, would our neighbors miss us? Why or why not? 3. Does our community see us as a community of faith that is characterized by our quality of service to them? (We want to be known as people who are willing to roll up our shirtsleeves and work along with the community? Seventh-day Adventists must be known as people who serve others and not only ourselves.) It’s obvious that salt must mix with other ingredients. Jesus mixed and mingled with outsiders and sinners. (Invite the group to turn to Luke 19:23, and follow silently as you read aloud.) “God wants to be with all of humanity.” (Then invite the group to turn to Luke 5:29-32 and read aloud with you.) Who are the sinners, the outsiders in my community? (Project on a screen a recipe for banana bread. Put the labeled ingredients on a table with these labels: sugar as community businesses, sour cream as homes, salt as churches, etc.) When mixing together the ingredients of the banana bread, you will notice that the salt loses its prominent taste but still transforms and flavors. (Project on screen the following statement and then the wording of the text.) • “Every worker who deals with souls successfully must come to the work divested of self” (Testimonies to Ministers, p. 168). • As you unselfishly serve Jesus and others this week, ponder John 17:18.

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Series Theme: Adventist Community Services

PROGRAMS

The Jesus Flavor Last week we focused on the idea that salt is not the whole recipe and that our mission is not all about ourselves and church members. This week we will focus on how we can salt (flavor) our community in Jesus’ name. (Project the three positions as each is discussed.) In Empowering the Poor: Community Organizing Among the City’s Rag, Tag, and Bobtail, Robert Linthicum, one of the great leaders of urban ministry, describes three positions a church can take in its community. 1. The church “in” the community refers to location: Members are not from the community and have little or no involvement in the community. (Have a Sabbath School member cut a slice of banana bread that has a saltshaker inside, and hold up loaf to reveal the shaker.) The members (the salt) in this church stay inside the saltshaker. They do not mingle or mix with people in the community, do no good, and would not be missed if they suddenly disappeared. 2. The church “to” the community. Members: • Feel a sense of responsibility to do something for their neighborhood. • Decide unilaterally what the people need, and invite them to participate. (Have a Sabbath School member sprinkle salt on top of the other loaf of banana bread.) For our illustration, this loaf has salt—only sprinkled on top. This is like a church that knows it should salt its community, but refuses to mix in with the people of the community. So members decide what the community needs, and their programs fail. (Have someone sprinkle the celery or garlic salt, etc., on the loaf.) This approach is risky, because it may be distasteful to that particular community—just as garlic salt isn’t tasty in banana bread. 3. The church “with” the city (community) sees mission to the community as a partnership. Members learn what are the burning issues, and bring the ministry of the church out to the community. (Hold up bread with salt mixed in.) The members see their mission to the community as a partnership. So the community is a better place because this church is there. If this church disappeared, the community would sorely miss it. The pastor of this church pastors the whole community, and the members have the same attitude. Let’s compare the above churches with Jesus’ ministry on earth. (Read 1 John 4:6. Then project The Ministry of Healing, p. 143, paragraph 3.) Jesus socialized, sympathized, served, and then offered salvation. (Project on screen and have groups discuss the following:) 1. Which of Linthicum’s three positions—to, in, or with—describes your church? How? 2. How do you think your church could better “flavor” (help) your community? 3. What will be your next step? (See handout below for ideas.) Where Do We Go From Here? Some ways to more effectively “salt” (not assault) our communities: 1. Pray for a spirit of revival, of love and caring for the people in your community. 2. Drive or walk around the chosen territory and note the types of homes, stores, churches, and people, etc. Talk to leaders and business people. 3. Have a demographic analysis done on the chosen territory. 4. Members get involved: join community boards, town councils, local ministerial associations (pastors), and civic clubs. 5. Develop a church strategic plan based on the community’s felt needs. 6. Seek to establish an ongoing “embedded ministry” in your community; e.g., day care center, AIDS care, family life education, recreation, life skills training, etc. 7. Celebrate what God is already doing. Support. LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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Song Service Theme Song Worship in Prayer Welcome Mission Emphasis The Program Bible Study SONG SERVICE Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal 578—“So Send I You” 286—“Wonderful Words of Life” He Is Our Song 82—“He Will Carry You” 126—“Make Me a Servant” Quarterly Theme Song “Number Us, Lord,” by Kristina Brown; leadmagazine.org PROGRAM May-Ellen Colon is assistant director of General Conference Sabbath School and Personal Ministries and director of Adventist Community Services International. Program Notes: On a table, place three loaves of banana bread and two saltshakers: table salt and garlic salt. One loaf should have a saltshaker full of salt inserted inside. EVANGELISM Work with your church administration to begin an intentional process for assessing the needs of your community and laying a strategic plan to meet these needs. For more information see Keys to Adventist Community Services that is available from AdventSource.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

“A friend can tell you things you don’t want to tell yourself” (Kathy Peel, How to Make Someone’s Day, No. 255).

LEGACY

The Adventist Showdown By Julius Nam

lide 1: Seventh-day Adventists teach that the best position for Adventist young people to take when drafted for mandatory military service is to serve as noncombatants. That is, to serve one’s country loyally in times of conflict and in roles that do not involve killing human beings. Slide 2: While the historical position of the church on military service always has been clear, Adventists have faced increasingly difficult challenges. Adventists do not have the option to serve as noncombatants in most nations of the world. Additionally, many members choose to serve as combatants when drafted. Some enlist in the military. These challenges to the historical stance of the church has led to recent debates on the significance and relevance of the noncombatancy position. Slide 3: As Adventists move further into the twenty-first century, we must consider how church fathers arrived at the noncombatancy position. The first war that Adventists faced as a church was the American Civil War, 1861-1865. As the war began, Adventists were in the process of organizing local churches into local conferences, a process that culminated in the establishment of the General Conference in 1863. Initially, neither side of the Civil War used the draft to fill its armed forces, but in 1862 the South began drafting men. At this time, Adventists lived in the North, so as far as it is known, no Adventist was impacted by this draft. But there was much talk in the North about the impending draft. This led James White to write an editorial entitled “The Nation” in the August 12, 1862, issue of the Review and Herald. In that editorial White argued that the requirements of all wars are out of harmony with the Ten Commandments, especially the ones on the Sabbath and killing. He asserted, however, that when individuals are drafted, “The government assumes the responsibility of the violations of the law of God, and it would be madness to resist.” Slide 4: White’s provocative editorial drew a flood of reactions ranging from those who felt that the Civil War represented a just cause worth fighting for—one person even suggesting a regiment of Sabbathkeepers—to those who did not believe that Adventists had any business supporting in any way military efforts that create dilemmas of faith. In the midst of this debate, Ellen White made a compelling statement against participating fully in a war whose objective she actually supported. “God’s people . . . cannot engage in this perplexing 32

war, for it is opposed to every principle of their faith,” she wrote. “In the army they cannot obey the truth and at the same time obey the requirements of their officers” (Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 361). While she cautioned Adventists from foolhardy rebellion against the government’s initia- Uriah Smith tives, she was unequivocal in her counsel against serving as combatants. Slide 5: So when the United States government instituted the draft in 1863 but made available the option to avoid it by paying a $300 “commutation fee,” Adventists were encouraged to take advantage of this alternative. The average annual income for workers that year was $400. Then, in 1864, the government restricted the option to members of recognized “peace churches,” religious groups that held conscientious, theological objection to serving in the military. The General Conference leaders seized upon this opening and sent J. N. Andrews to Washington, D.C., to apply for a “peace church” status. This was granted on September 1, 1864. Thus, driven by their concern for commandmentkeeping, galvanized by Ellen White’s counsel, and taking advantage of the unique opportunity afforded by the United States government, Adventists arrived at their position of noncombatancy. Slide 6: But the Adventist position was not merely a product of historical circumstances. The position was based on a theology of peace and the priority of God’s kingdom over earthly nations. In May 1865 Adventist leaders who met at their annual General Conference session declared: “We are compelled to decline all participation in acts of war and bloodshed as being inconsistent with the duties enjoined upon us by our divine Master toward our enemies and toward all mankind” (Review and Herald, May 23, 1865). The General Conference session in 1868 went a step further in its denunciation of war: “War was never justifiable except under the immediate direction of God. . . . [W]e cannot believe it to be right for the servants of Christ to take up arms to destroy the lives of their fellow-men” (Review and Herald, May 26, 1868). Slide 7: These statements issued by the highest authority in

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LEGACY

J. N. Andrews

G. H. Bell

LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Julius Nam is assistant professor of religion at Loma Linda University School of Religion. He specializes in Adventist history.

As with all articles bearing the “mouse” at the top of the page, there is a LEAD Web link to this article. A downloadable PowerPoint program of pictures that accompany the LEGACY narrative in every issue of LEAD is posted at leadmagazine.org.cd

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LEGACY

the Adventist Church remain as the clearest, most unequivocal statements about war and Adventist involvement in wars. However, new, seemingly insurmountable difficulties arose in the twentieth century with World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Each of these wars resulted in the institution of the draft in all the nations involved in the wars, thereby ensuring that Adventists would be fighting against one another. While the church’s championing of peace, denunciation of all wars, and position of noncombatancy remained firm, Adventists in Germany, England, Japan, Korea, China, and Vietnam, for example, faced torture, imprisonment, and execution by their governments. As could be expected, this led some Adventists to abandon the historic position of noncombatancy and participate fully as combatants and others to rethink the church’s position. Slide 8: In response to these challenges from within and without, some members in the 1950s sought to add a statement on noncombatancy to the fundamental beliefs of the church. Others felt that given the challenges Adventists face worldwide on this issue, elevating the historic position beyond the recommended position to a formal doctrine would not be advisable. In the end, the proposed statement was not added. Instead, church leaders issued a statement in 1972 reaffirming the historic position and strongly urging Adventists to seek noncombatant positions when drafted. At the same time, recognizing that not all nations provide the noncombatant option and that not all Adventists agreed on this matter, this statement indicated that the church leaders were not advocating “a rigid position binding church members” but one that “gives guidance, leaving the individual member free to assess the situation for himself” (Autumn Council of the General Conference

Committee: General Actions, October 14-29, 1972, Mexico City, p. 17). In other words, while the church continues to advocate for peace, condemn all wars, and teach all Adventists to avoid combatant roles in the military, the decision is left to the conscience of each member. Slide 9: Many Adventists around the world continue to find themselves in a difficult place of attempting to uphold the historic Adventist position on military service while responding to their nation’s call to safeguard peace through military strength. As Adventists make their individual decisions on this matter, we must remember that carrying weapons as combatants puts “the spiritual and moral foundations of your life in serious jeopardy,” according to Jan Paulsen, General Conference president: “When you carry arms, you imply that you are prepared to use them to take another’s life, and taking the life of one of God’s children, even that of our ‘enemy,’ is inconsistent with what we hold to be sacred and right” (Adventist World, March 2008). Slide 10: The reality is that more Adventists, including those in the United States where the draft has not been in force for more than 30 years, are choosing to serve in the military in various capacities, including combatant positions. As Elder Paulsen also wrote, Adventists who do serve in combat positions must be respected and embraced, rather than judged negatively. At the same time, the historic witness of the Adventist Church, compelled strongly by the words of our pioneers, including Ellen White, remains one of peace, nonviolence, and compassionate service. The call to be a peacemaking church must be taken very seriously in this age of geopolitical uncertainties.

THE BRIDGE Family Ministries Positive Close Encounters

ffective communication is one of the most important elements in every healthy and successful relationship. The closer the relationship the more critical that the exchange of words, gestures, looks, attitudes, and tones be positive, affirming, nurturing, and caring. Relationship experts often refer to communication as the number one skill needed, and state that especially in marriage, people who communicate well are often happier. In fact, they say, couples who communicate poorly are often unhappy. Recent research suggests that happy couples are often satisfied with the way they talk to one another, feel that their partner understands them, and find it easy to express their true feelings. Happy couples believe their partner is a very good listener and report that their partner does not make comments that put them down. The exact opposite is reported as being the reality for unhappy couples, according to David Olson, Amy OlsonSigg, and Peter J. Larson in The Couple Checkup. God, the master communicator, inspired many of the Bible writers to convey optimum ways of communicating as well as to give directives on what to avoid when communicating. The following passages of Scripture make that point; all texts are in the NIV: 1. “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” (Prov. 12:18). Words spoken in haste may not have been intended to hurt, but invariably are as wounding as a piercing sword. These kinds of words are usually not thought through and can be very harmful. On the other hand, words spoken from a kind and wise heart do the exact 34

opposite; they soothe and heal. 2. “A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered” (Prov. 17:27). The person described in this passage is cautious in what he says. Obviously, he thinks before speaking and does not exchange gossip with others. This person is characterized as being calm and mature. 3. “He who answers before listening— that is his folly and his shame” (Prov. 18:13). Anyone who responds to an issue before listening to the various perspectives being offered is clearly conceited and will make a fool of himself or herself. The very thing that such people work to convey—being smart and witty—is the very thing that eludes them. This behavior is not only true at home, but also at work, in church, and with whomever they are communicating. 4. “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much” (Prov. 20:19). This verse is pretty straightforward. One should be careful about whom one shares a secret with. People who talk too much should be avoided, since they will probably disclose confidential information. 5 “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer” (Ps. 19:14). The context of this verse finds the psalmist David contemplating the law of God and praying for complete cleansing to live an upright and blameless life. David longs to have perfect communion with God and asks God for strength so that his words and thoughts will be a delight to God. Since words often follow thoughts, if our thought life is leadmagazine.org

By Willie Oliver, Ph.D.

guided by the Spirit of God, our words will have a much better chance of blessing rather than cursing people within and outside our homes. 6. “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19). The writer of James gives threefold instruction. Of course, listening is a very important part of communication. People who listen well best convey interest and respect for the persons with whom they are in conversation. This behavior fosters calm rather than anger and gives honor and glory to God. I hope that as we read God’s Word we will be informed in the optimum ways to communicate. I hope that we find models to inform our daily interactions with loved ones, coworkers, and strangers on the street, representing Jesus and helping to build His kingdom on earth.

Willie Oliver, an ordained minister, is director of Family Ministries for the North American Division. He is a certified family life educator, a pastoral counselor, and a family sociologist.

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THE BRIDGE Insight Let ’em Try

By Dwain Neilson Esmond

hat comes to mind when you read the statement “Let me go, you control freak!”

Teenagers in our churches will rarely express their frustration at being controlled in the church, but many feel that way. Their frustration is often hidden below a blank or bored facial expression. We see this and conclude that they’re not interested in what goes on at church. Nothing could be further from the truth. Teens are interested in churches that allow them to make their unique contribution to the body of Christ. The Challenge I saw this firsthand when I tapped one practical joker in my youth group to lead out in a new feature during our monthly youth church program. The spot is called “This Is Your Church” and is a newsy segment featuring Seventhday Adventist Church news from around the world. You’d be surprised how little local members know about the church to which they belong. “This Is Your Church” is our small way of helping to fix this problem at our church. I gave my teen the segment, told him what we were looking for, and then freed him to be creative. He came up with his own beginning and ending for the segment, complete with call and response lines to get the church excited about the news. I have helped him find the news to feature, but soon—I hope— LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• Did you see a teen girl jerking her arm away from her hyper-possessive boyfriend? • Did you see a hen-pecked husband reacting to his interrogating wife? • Did you picture teens from your church yelling at their leaders? Perish the thought! Right?

he’ll be doing that on his own. After awhile, he will not even need me. Amen! Relinquishing control of a part of the program wasn’t a big deal to me, but it sure was to my teenage friend. Weeks later his mother approached me to thank me for the impact that I was having on her son. Other friends and family have told me what a different person he is. Every Sabbath I see him helping out around the church, carrying bags, cleaning tables, helping seniors. Allowing him to make his unique contribution to God’s family has opened up a heart that was always ready to serve. Youth are starved for outlets in which to use their creativity. Sure, they have the Internet where they can create and share videos, blogs, photographs, etc., but where can they do that in the “bricks and mortar” world? Many middle and high schools have leadmagazine.org

Dwain Esmond, editor for Insight magazine, and his wife, Kemba, are parents to Dwain Harper Richard Esmond.

THE BRIDGE

jettisoned arts programs to save money at a time when most teens would choose arts over sports—witness the High School Musical phenomenon that swept the nation! Today’s teens don’t just want to come to youth group; they want to create the youth group space: • They want to write poetry that glorifies God, and they want to share it during the divine hour service. • They want to write and perform skits, make films, and write blogs. They’ll need your direction and help. But what they’ll need most is freedom to create and the knowledge that what they create is valued in the family of God. If, after a month or two, you’re still struggling to let go of your inner control freak, keep at it. The payoff is worth the effort.

THE BRIDGE Children’s Ministries Helping Kids Get Real

hey’re everywhere: Houston. Cedar Rapids. Fort Lauderdale. South Bend. Snoqualmie Falls. Manhattan—21 million young people who need the Christ-centered true stories associated with Guide. That’s why I’m thrilled that Guide is creating a brand-new magazine just for outreach ministry. “For many of my nearly 20 years at Guide magazine I have wondered how we might reach past the walls of Adventism with the positive, characterbuilding stories featured in our publication,” comments Guide editor Randy Fishell. “We believe God has shown us a way to do just that.” Real is the name selected for the new sharing publication that will arrive monthly instead of weekly like Guide. “We want to emphasize to readers that God is real,” Fishell says. “The true stories in the magazine show how He has been involved in the lives of young people much like them.” Juniors and earliteens, as well as caring adults, can nominate nonAdventist young people to receive a free one-year subscription to Real. Kids may send the name of a sports teammate, a fellow 4-H Club member, cousins, or some public school friends who need to receive the magazine. Adults may wish to submit the names of their nonattending children, 36

grandchildren, or the youngsters in their neighborhood—all would be eligible to receive a subscription, paid for primarily by donations. “We want to collect the names of 10,000 unchurched children who need to receive Real,” Fishell said. “We hope to be distributing 100,000 copies each month within the next year or two.” How to Involve the Juniors and Earliteens The Real magazine initiative is a great way to involve children in sharing the gospel with their peers. Are you a junior/earliteen Sabbath School teacher or Pathfinder leader? Consider starting a Real magazine outreach project with your group. Ask the young people in your group to list unchurched friends, neighbors, family members, and others who should get Real magazine. Explain that Real contains fun stories, facts, and puzzles that will help their friends know Jesus. Next, have your group present a program about Real for the whole church. Invite church members to add names of children they know. Collect an

By Phyllis Washington

offering for the Real magazine project. Before sending in your list of names, keep a copy for your group. Continue reaching out to these young people throughout the year. • Pray for them. • Invite them to church activities for their age group. • Organize at least two “Real Kids Meet Jesus” events each year. Personally invite young people who are receiving the magazine. Invite the children from your church as well, and plan activities to help all the kids get acquainted. I hope you’ll catch the vision for this new magazine and that you’ll take a few minutes to learn more about the initiative. You may submit names and get more information (or contribute) online at www.guidemagazine.org/real. If you prefer to communicate via letter, here’s the address: Real Magazine, 55 West Oak Ridge Drive, Hagerstown, MD 21740. If you’re looking for a powerful way to draw more kids closer to Jesus, I suggest you make it Real.

Phyllis Washington is North American Division Children’s Ministries director. She is a certified chaplain.

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THE BRIDGE Personal Ministries “We Can Do Better”

he personal ministries focus for this issue comes from a painful portion of the report of the executive secretary during the 2008 North American Division (NAD) Year End meetings. Elder Bryant reported that our NAD net growth percentage stood at 1.97 percent. This says that the “overall” average annual growth in our NAD congregations stood at less than two persons during that year (the 2008 statistics were not available as of this writing). The report continues to leave me with the lingering sentiment and conviction: We can do better—now! This writing is by no means an attempt to minimize the thousands that are being won to God’s will, or to disparage the efforts of the spirit-filled faithful ones who cooperate with Divinity in leading them to “the pool.” The fact that you are reading LEAD magazine indicates that you are one of the helpful and positive contributors! We have time only to invest in empowerment in the context of the reality and need, that overall in North America we can do better. We must do better, particularly in these global recessionary times of evangelistic opportunity. Today people are desperate for real answers to the dilemmas and questions that are dismantling their lives. Doors of spiritual receptivity are now open that may never be accessible, in this way, at another time. The preamble to the Great Commission of Matthew 28:18, “All power [authority] (Greek exousia, God’s capacity to accomplish anything that resides within His will) has been given to Me in heaven and on earth,” serves as our “lead encouragement,” assurance, and hope in this challenge of doing better. How about it? LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

The Three-lane Boulevard A path to our doing better is most definitely the three-lane boulevard of heightened intercessory prayer for souls, consecrated personal spiritual lives, and a more focused understanding and acceptance of the ministry of the Holy Ghost in our lives for positive results in soul winning ministry. These three cooperate just like lions on a hunt. Space restrictions allow me to elaborate on only one “lane” at this time. I choose the last. We Seventh-day Adventist people are some of the nicest people in the world! Many of our people, however, are unaware of the difference between the “prime” ministry of the Holy Ghost that makes us nice reflectors of the character of Christ, and the “prime” ministry of the Holy Ghost that leads us to be successful, targeted, contributors to the soul winning process through our spiritual gifts. I suspect that most of our members feel these are one and the same—they are not. The joy of the Holy Ghost in us is that of the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Gal. 5:22, 23). These benefits enable us to reflect the character of Christ, giving us the capacity to be nice people whose lives are congruent with the message we believe and teach. However, the fruit does not make us targeted, intentional, soul winners. Consider the life of Jesus Christ prior to His baptism. No Bible student will question His divinity during that phase, neither can any Bible student document one evangelistic meeting that He may have conducted. This was His Holy Ghost “in” phase, and He lived it perfectly! The ministry of the Holy Ghost upon us is designed to propel us into targeted, intentional, soul-winning processes through the igniting of our spiritual gifts leadmagazine.org

By J. Alfred Johnson II

toward the building up of the church. In Acts 1:8 Jesus tells all disciples that we will “receive power [Greek dunamis—the ability to perform] after the Holy Ghost” comes upon us—and that we “shall be witnesses . . . unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Note the assurance, rather than the possibility. The presence of the Trinity, and the anointing of the Holy Ghost in the form of a dove upon Jesus at His baptism marked the beginning of Christ’s public ministry, giving Him the capacity to do intentional ministry that led souls directly to the kingdom. People looked at His life (the fruit of the Holy Spirit in Him). They observed His works (the Holy Ghost upon Him). As a result they were influenced to choose Him as Lord and Savior. The process works the same today. Our Lord wants us to be balanced witnesses with Him. He invites us to accept Him, by His Spirit, into our lives (Rev. 3:20; Gal. 5:22, 23) so that we may become (be) appropriate reflectors of His character—nice people. He invites us to accept Him upon our lives, so that we may have the capacity to boldly, fearlessly, successfully, excitedly, and powerfully “do” ministry with Him (Acts 1:8; 1 Cor. 12). Yes, we can do better. We will experience greater growth as we pray daily for the balance that comes when we experience His Spirit upon us as well as within us. Maranatha!

J. Alfred Johnson II is director for the North American Division Adult Ministries Department.

THE BRIDGE Witnessing Survival Guide Getting Back to: Sowing Evangelism

fter this North American Division Year of Evangelism comes to a close, there will be a lot of analysis as to what worked and what didn’t. One thing is for certain: outreach must continue as the main focus, the raison d’être for the church. Evangelism will be successful to the extent to which the church applies biblical principles for evangelism. The closer we follow the principles, the more we will grow. The more we depart from the standard set by Christ, the supreme soul winner, the greater will be the frustration and the more pitiable the results.

organic experience of the church and of those in the church. Perhaps the most comprehensive Bible teaching on how the church is to grow comes from Jesus’ simple parable of the growing seed. (Read Mark 4:26-29, in the New American Standard Bible.) There are three stages to this process: 1. the sowing 2. the growing 3. the reaping. Historically in the Adventist Church, we have given a great deal of emphasis to the reaping cycle of evangelism, but

In our wonderful age of technology, it is easier to feel more connected with people while being more distant from them in reality. How the Church Grows Growth in and of the church is something the Bible speaks a great deal about. From a small clan in Babylon, God grew the Hebrews “into a great multitude” (Gen. 48:16). The righteous, planted by the Lord Himself, shall grow “like a cedar in Lebanon” (Ps. 92:12, 13). God will heal the backsliding, and He will make him grow “as the lily . . . [and] as the vine” (Hosea 14:4-7). The kingdom of heaven is like good seed that grows until the time of the harvest (Matt. 13:24-30). The church of Christ, as she knows Him, will grow “in all things” like Him (Eph. 4:11-15). The church is to grow by the Word (1 Peter 2:2). And we can’t forget the numerous references about church growth in the book of Acts under the influence of the Holy Spirit! Growth is meant to be an 38

have been rather oblivious to the first two stages. “Reaping,” by definition, is the natural result of growth. In the spiritual realm, the church is to reap souls that are ripe for the kingdom. “Growing,” on the other hand, is something the church cannot do. According to the Bible, growing happens even while the farmer has no clue about how this exactly is to take place. Growth is a miracle of God any way one looks at it. So, the church cannot be responsible for church growth, as such. The one stage you and I are really responsible for is to sow the seed. A Unique Christian Endeavor While growing is characterized by the power of God and reaping by right timing of the harvest, sowing calls for faithfulness. In the parable of the sower, leadmagazine.org

By Ron E. M. Clouzet

Jesus highlights that three of the four soils upon which the seed was sown did not yield fruit; only the fourth one yielded abundant fruit (Matt. 13:18-23). Sowers cannot be overly concerned with whether or not something will grow as hoped. Sowers must be primarily concerned with sowing, leaving the growing to God. But why sow? Why are Christians to be sowers more than reapers or growers? Perhaps because sowing takes faith, strong faith, and that’s how Christians are to live—by faith. When a farmer puts the seed in the ground, it’s out of sight for days. Nothing apparent happens. Yet lots of things are happening. The problem in the church is when we want a harvest without the work of sowing. Harvesting is comparatively easy. When those cornstalks are tall and wave in the wind, when the fruit is obvious and ripe, that’s all the motivation we need to reap. But when the ground is bare and what you have ahead of you is nothing but work and wait, you are tempted to forget it, or to do it later, or to let someone else do it. If you want to be a Christian, you must sow! The farmer sows. He reaps only because he has sown. And that is what the church of God is to do. It takes faith to bury a seed out of sight, and keep doing it time and again, simply because God says He’ll make it grow. So why sow more than grow or reap? Because while reaping is human, and growing is divine, sowing is work done only by Christians who live by faith. How to Do Sowing Evangelism If I were a church pastor again, one of the first things I’d try to do is organize ministry groups to do sowing OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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THE BRIDGE

Break the Ice Of course, the best way to do this is to get to know your neighbors—share a meal with them, help them with projects. This also applies to coworkers and others. But many in our church could not even think of going this far. So what can you do to begin to break the ice with others? Here are several examples of what has become known as “servant evangelism.” 1. A free car wash for the community. LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Most car washes our churches offer are meant to raise money for Path-

evangelism. The concept is not new with me. Two excellent books have recently been published that provide methods and scores of examples on how to do this: • Steve Sjogren, an evangelical pastor in Cincinnati, Ohio, published a Christian best-seller, sharing the many ways to reach out to the community with genuine blessing, without strings attached (Conspiracy of Kindness: A Unique Approach to Sharing the Love of Jesus, Rev. Ed.). • Ruthie Jacobsen wrote Bridges 101 (bridges101.com), from an Adventist perspective, and it is chock-full of examples and inspiration about reaching the lost near your home. Every farmer who expects to sow must be in the field. Sowing is not done by proxy. Similarly, we cannot reach people while not with them. In our wonderful age of technology, we easily feel more connected with people while actually being more distant from them. Although Facebook has done wonders to connect people with friends, nothing substitutes being there—physically, talking with people, watching their facial expressions and body language, responding to their questions—in short, getting to know them.

finders or some other worthy cause. This time, politely turn down the money. When beneficiaries look at you in shock, hand them a card with the name of your church on it, and say, “We just want to show God’s love in a practical way today. Have a great day!” 2. Put quarters in washing/drying machines at Laundromats. Again, look for those who might appreciate it most—single moms with kids in tow, or lonely people. Say: “I have extra quarters today, would you let me put them in your machine? It’d be a privilege for me to do that.” The exchange might prompt a brief conversation in which you can share what makes you want to do this for people. 3. Clean toilets in mall stores. Yup! That will get attention. Who likes to clean toilets? Wouldn’t it be something if a small team of church members descended on the neighborhood strip mall and offered to clean their toilets? Some stores would refuse the offer, but others—intrigued—will take it. Again, this is done to show God’s leadmagazine.org

love in a practical way. When the team comes back regularly, the word begins to circulate that these church people mean business—they really care for others. Need more examples? Band together. Pray for guidance. Decide what you and your group can do for your neighbors. This “sowing evangelism” group can simply be your Sabbath School class or the small group that meets in a home every Thursday. Sunday mornings might be an excellent time to do these kinds of ministries. More people are out and about, away from their cloistered office cubicles. In addition, if ministry teams go out with some regularity, Adventists will be more easily identified—all other Christians are attending church services! Such service is an important message to the secular mind: Christians bless others tangibly and not from afar. One must keep in mind two fundamentals while serving: wear a natural smile at all times. Don’t forget that the main objective is to be a blessing to people. To the disciples of old, Jesus once said that the fields were ready for harvest, but He did not forget to mention that the reason for the harvest was that others had done the sowing (John 4:3539). The sooner we get to sowing, the sooner Jesus will come for the harvest.

Ron E. M. Clouzet, D.Min., is ministerial secretary and director of the North American Division Evangelism Institute (NADEI). He is also professor of Christian ministry and practical theology for Andrews University Theological Seminary.

THE BRIDGE Adventist Community Services Reaching the Unchurched

By Sung Kwon

e are living in an emerging age of conceptualization that often is influenced by postmodernism and value-driven ministry. This segment of society expects unity through mission and vision, instead of uniformity through policies and procedures. In general, people are not interested in organized religious affiliations. Then how do we reach them? The church must be relevant and able to contextualize the ministry. What is “contextualization”? A social, ethnic, or cultural setting is a context. Each cultural or ethnic context is unique, growing out of unique worldview assumptions that result in specific ways of thinking about and living life (Holistic Ministry and Cross-cultural Mission in Luke-Acts, by Glenn Rogers, June 29, 2006 b:14-65). So let’s consider engaging in six crucial components of contextualized ministry. 1. Diversified Ministries—These should expand the ministry portfolio beyond the four walls of the church. Instead of doing the church program as inward focused, we must be the church in our society as outward focused and providing relevant ministries. 2. Heart Faith—Instead of engaging in the logical, cognitive converting process of traditional proselytize strategies—head-to-head—of information transitions, we must share the life-changing stories of individuals from heart-to-heart—telling how God made a difference in our life. 3. Change Agents—Engaging in dialogue about societal challenges and providing relevant community outreach ministries to equip individuals and develop community is a crucial aspect of being a Christian. Your Sabbath School should consider

establishing educational ministries such as English as a second language and General Education Diploma (GED) classes, and afterschool tutoring programs. In addition to hosting community picnics, cultural-difference discussion groups, etc., help draw people together with church members. 4. Holistic Ministry—Jesus did not just teach people how to be saved from sin. He took interest in the whole person: physical, social, emotional, and spiritual. Ministering to people’s needs could be expensive and time consuming, but it is our duty and responsibility as Christians. 5. Excitement—Vibrant ministry generates enthusiasm and promotes selfmotivated commitment to the cause of action. Through the enrichment of life experience, one could shift from being a religious practitioner to experiencing genuine fellowship with God in an intimate relationship. 6. Passing the Legacy—Through the faithful journey with Jesus Christ, we leadmagazine.org

could transform the world as a better place to live by making a difference in people’s behavior. Because of our churches, hospitals, and educational institutions, communities are transformed as we pass on to our children the values of the kingdom of heaven. In short, the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 addresses God’s mission in the world as two components: 1. To reconcile the broken relationship between God and His children through baptism of the triune God. 2. To transform the world into kingdom of God through individuals’ lifechanging experience as His disciples. So for a church that is missional in nature, community outreach is not an option; community outreach is the primary reason for its existence. Sung Kwon is Adventist Community Services director for the North American Division.

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Are you in shape? Get some exercise! www.InStepforLife.com/ Register: www.plusline.org/events.php DeWitt S. Williams, EdD MPH CHES Director, Health Ministries North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists Phone: 301-680-6733 Fax: 301-680-6734; 301-680-6464 http://www.nadhealthministries.org/

THE BRIDGE Emmaus Eyes

Facilitation helps for teachers of mentally challenged adults.

October: Use Concrete, Practical Illustrations By Helene Hubbard

ack of background, discomfort with reading, and literal-mindedness may initially hinder your class members from appreciating the relevance of this quarter’s study. The more concrete your introductory lessons, the easier they will identify with the Israelites as being basically similar to themselves. Give practical examples of organization, divine guidance, meaningful worship, and forthright honesty regarding sin appealing so strongly. If you help class members learn to apply these lessons to their personal challenges, they will profit beyond anything they could anticipate. Your goal is to invite, engage, and encourage them until they “get it” for themselves. Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal “Marching to Zion” “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” Quarterly Theme Song “Empower Us, Lord,” by Carmen Griffith. Go to leadmagazine.org

3: A New Order Gather supplies. Lead the class in repeating the memory text. Discuss how Numbers is an example of all the ways God cared for the Israelites on their journey. Based on Numbers 2, make a large map of the camp showing the arrangement of the tribes, Levites, and the sanctuary. Compare this with Pathfinder camporees or military encampments. Emphasize the practicality of careful organization. Based on Numbers 3, make a chart comparing the jobs of the Kohathites, 42

Gershonites, and Merarites. Include a space to list the duties of Aaron and his sons. Discuss the advantages of such detailed job descriptions. Ask how the organization of class members’ living arrangements help them accomplish their mission for God. 10: Preparing a People Gather supplies. Recite last week’s memory text. Have participants memorize or put on paper the Aaronic prayer (Num. 6:24-26) for use at the end of this quarter. Using Monday’s lesson as a guide, encourage members to make a (private) list of people they have harmed in ways mentioned in the lesson or in other ways. Invite participants to brainstorm about appropriate repair of those relationships. Provide copies of the prayer (Friday’s lesson) for participants to use each morning this quarter. Suggest that participants tape it to their alarm clock or bathroom door, etc. Read and recite the Aaronic prayer. 17: Worship and Dedication Gather supplies. Open with this quarter’s memory text. Make a drawing of the sanctuary furnishings. Using gold Primo or Sculpey clay, shape menorahs to take home. To relate this lesson to 2009, get input from the deacons to make a “church chore chart” from which members select one specific task to perform this quarter, much like the Levites performed their appointed duties. To personalize this lesson even further, ask members to list personal blessings of giving. Make a tithe-andoffering checklist for members. leadmagazine.org

Conclude by reciting or reading the Aaronic prayer. 24: Trumpet, Blood, Cloud, Fire Gather supplies. Begin with the memory text. Arrange a miniature Passover based on instructions in Numbers 9 and Exodus 12:8, 11. Discuss the meaning of each element of the celebration to desertdwelling Israelites and to modern Christians. Help class members make reversible Bible bookmarks—fire on one side and cloud on the other. If possible, laminate for durability. Make cards of encouragement. Conclude with the Aaronic prayer. 31: From Complaints to Apostasy Recite the memory text. Discuss how faithful followers of God could fall to displaying such bad attitudes and, eventually, bad actions. Emphasize an “attitude of gratitude” as the antidote. Based on Numbers 11–14, bring to class a chart with three columns: Truth, Lie, Why? In each respective column, state the true fact, the lie presented, and the “reason” for the lie. Discuss how we may find ourselves using the Israelites’ excuses for avoiding truth that appears to be difficult.

Helene Hubbard,M.D. and Ph.D., practices in Bradenton, Florida.

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THE BRIDGE Emmaus Eyes

Facilitation helps for teachers of mentally challenged adults.

November: Promote Healing and Mastery By Helene Hubbard

e are born needing love. We crave power. We were created for community. We must train for self-mastery. Your class members may struggle more than the less-challenged to develop appropriate love relationships and self-mastery skills. Childhood feelings of inadequacy interfere with proper identity formation and subsequent family-building. Every person is born with the drive to master, but many acquire “learned helplessness” that translates “victim.” Victimization usually manifests as passive aggression. All are born ready to bond. People who do not bond develop attachment disorders. People who are in abuse have been known to act out or withdraw. Neither learned behavior promotes healthy relationships. This month’s goal is for all members to discover or rediscover God’s love and to be assured that they are each gifted with talents to use for God. Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal “On Jordan’s Stormy Banks” “Once to Every Man and Nation” “Give of Your Best to the Master” Quarterly Theme Song “Empower Us, Lord,” by Carmen Griffith; go to leadmagazine.org 7: Planning Ahead Collect supplies. Begin with the memory text. One art project could be done as an afternoon fellowship activity. Today’s themes include: permanence, accepting “strangers” into our community, and true repentance What does it mean to your class members to have a permanent dwelling? List their symbols of permanence. Compare these symbols to those used by the LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Israelites. Economize members to contribute to a poster of promises about our heavenly home. In which communities do your class members encounter strangers? How have they been treated as newcomers? What is God’s ideal welcome? Invite class members to help make a welcome banner for your class or church. Review last week’s why’s on the chart. Figure out why each favored way of avoiding uncomfortable facts or actions serves people who use them. What “purpose” or defense does each serve? Brainstorm ways to counter each excuse or hindrance. Invite members to select their “favorite” excuses or hindrances, and ask God to replace these with trust in Him. Ask each person to save their lists to review at the end of the quarter. To recall the decision to trust God, give each person a tassel or keychain made from blue and white yarn or light cord (braid or macramé). Conclude with the Aaronic prayer. 14: Power Struggle Collect craft supplies. Start with the text, and end with the Aaronic prayer. People have an inherent need for love and power. Legitimate exercise of power is beneficial; power struggles hurt everyone. List familiar power struggles and for each, determine the root cause(s), e.g., the defensive techniques for avoiding unpleasantness. List power struggles in this week’s lesson, and determine their root cause(s). Invite members to privately identify and record their favorite reasons (excuses) for power struggles. Lead them in asking God to replace each excuse with trust in Him. Save the lists to review at the end of the quarter. leadmagazine.org

Perception of sin is easy in retrospect. Make paper cylinder “retrospectoscopes.” Before gluing the paper, color code the steps to sin from the first thought allowed to linger to the dreadful realization of sin’s true harvest. Emphasize the time frame during which people insist they are not being fooled and ignore warnings. 21: Priests and Levites Gather supplies for this in-class project Start with the text, and end with prayer. Thanksgiving is a good time to focus on tithing and dedicating one’s talents to God. Make a centerpiece: Cut turkey feet and wings from brown construction paper and two turkey heads from white paper. Fill a brown paper bag with wadded paper. Staple it shut at the top. Glue the feet to the bottom and the wings to the sides. Glue the two heads together from beak to crop, bend at right angles, glue the necks to the bag so the head sticks out in front. Color the head. Cut colorful feathers from paper or thin foam. On each feather, write one nonmaterial gift from God: a talent, person, circumstance (e.g., freedom). Paste the feathers to the back of the bag to form an enormous tail. 28: The Sin of Moses and Aaron Collect craft supplies. Start with the memory text, and end with prayer. Exhibit a sample epitaph, eulogy, and praise psalm. Ask: If you died tonight, what would you want on your tombstone? Why? Lead participants in making a tombstoneshaped bookmarks and writing their epitaph on them. Write your own eulogy, as though you were your best friend or closest family member who is thanking God for your life for specific reasons. 43

THE BRIDGE Emmaus Eyes

Facilitation helps for teachers of mentally challenged adults.

December: Verbal Defense, Written Bonding By Helene Hubbard

hether from advancing senility, low IQ, underdeveloped social skills, or communication disorder, your class members are vulnerable to “vultures.” Every middle school child knows who vultures are by second semester: losers, outcasts, and undesirables who attract—and prey on—the weak, innocent, and insecure. By second semester, the vulture’s victims have already been chewed up and spat out. Unfortunately, vultures aren’t limited to middle school. This month your class will practice refusal skills to help resist being bullied or duped—not as much by strangers as by familiar folk. If you feel unsure of your knowledge base, you’ll find curricula on the Internet, in libraries, and in the heads of middle school teachers— ask! Also encourage and support. Seventh-day Adventist Hymnal “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” “O Come, All Ye Faithful” “O Come, O Come, Immanuel” Quarterly Theme Song “Empower Us, Lord,” by Carmen Griffith; go to leadmagazine.org 5: The “Madness” of the Prophet Start with this quarter’s memory text and end with the Aaronic prayer. This account lends itself to a dramatic presentation. Invite the class to submit questions for a reporter interviewing the donkey, the angel, and Balak about their perspectives on Balaam’s fall from faithful prophet to unsuccessful pawn. Refer to your retrospectoscopes to track each stage in Balaam’s descent into disobedience. 44

Rehearse refusal skills with the class. Start with easy ones and progress to realistic temptations your class members face, e.g., “No, I will not have another cookie.” 12: Immorality on the Border Start with the text, end with prayer. Can you scarcely believe that God’s prophet would host a temptation party? That strategy worked better than direct confrontation or remote curses against Israelites—and against us. Invite a panel of teens to discuss why it isn’t safe to party with non-Christian friends and why it’s so hard to resist. This time of year, there are many alluring activities. Discuss criteria for choosing wisely among competing claims on your time, money, and allegiance. Review and rehearse refusal skills, e.g.: • “No, I don’t want to go there.” • “Yes, I will leave now in order to be on time for church.” • “I give tithe and offering.” Share victories and challenges that members experienced this week. Pause to pray for each person who shares.

thanks to their family’s elders and to church seniors. Invite participants to write letters of encouragement and instruction to younger members of their family and of the church family. Prepare to have assistants help with the writing as needed. 26: Cities of Refuge Start with the text, end with prayer. New Year’s Day is a traditional time of retrospection and of rededication. Provide paper “stones” or actual river rocks. Have participants write one- or two-word reminders of ways God has led them in the past. Provide “scribes” as needed. Suggest that participants place these items in their home where they will notice them often. Option: Use plaster of Paris and tiles or mosaic stones to make steppingstones that illustrate or symbolize important milestones in class members’ lives, a time God led in a special way, etc. Many craft stores sell kits for these. Or get instructions from the library or Internet.

19: The Second Generation: Admonitions Start with the text, end with prayer. Invite one or more members to relate how their family has passed values from elders to younger family members: • What was easy? • What was hard? • What succeeded? • What disappointed? • What did they do or plan to do to be more successful? Encourage written communication. Invite participants to write letters of leadmagazine.org

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THE BRIDGE Women’s Ministries Heart Call

frequently receive S.O.S. calls from women who have just been elected women’s ministries leader in their church. They need help, because they have no idea what to do—what kind of programs to plan, what resources are available to them, or where to find them. I am always happy to let them know that there are many resources for women’s ministries, many of them available from AdventSource at very low cost, and some of them are free from the North American Division (NAD) Women’s Ministries office. The NAD Women’s Ministries Department has a series of 10 pamphlets, seven in English and three in Spanish, that are free to women’s ministries leaders. One pamphlet that is available in both English and Spanish outlines the four special days of emphasis that we observe each year: • Women’s Day of Prayer • Women’s Ministries Emphasis Day • The NAD Women’s Ministries Offering • Abuse Prevention Emphasis Day Free sermons, children’s stories, and PowerPoint presentations are available on our Web site (nadwm.org) to assist churches with celebration of these special days. While each of these events has a suggested date for observance, women’s ministries leaders are encouraged to work with their pastor to find times on the church calendar that work best for their church. None of the dates are arbitrary, and, although the NAD Women’s Ministries Offering should be taken during the month of July, funds can be turned in any time in a tithe envelope marked “NAD Women’s Ministries.” Other pamphlets in the series include: LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

By Carla Baker

• “Heart Call,” a ministry to reconnect with women who have stopped attending church (available in English and Spanish) • “Great Ideas for Women’s Ministries in the Local Church” (English and Spanish) • “Nurturing New Members” • “Young Women’s Ministries” • “Women in Touch” friendship evangelism • “M.O.M.S.”—a support group for mothers with children from birth to the earliteen years. “Heart Call” is also available from AdventSource in a kit containing a fiveminute introductory DVD, a CD with training resources, and a leader’s guide booklet. The kit is available in English and Spanish for $14.95. “Keeping the Faith” is a series of 14 half-hour TV shows for women that have been made available on DVD to be used as programming for women’s ministries meetings in the local church. The series features well-known Adventist TV and radio personality Connie Vandeman Jeffery as moderator and three other Adventist panelists: musician Gale Jones Murphy, Andrea Judd, and Diana Broomfield, M.D. Dr. Broomfield is an infertility specialist from Maryland who is featured on all

the shows with health topics. Each show also features one or more guests who discuss issues relevant to women, such as self-image, overcoming adversity, depression, secrets of a happy marriage, eating disorders, and how to protect your children from Internet predators. The half-hour format is ideal for use at women’ ministries meetings, and the shows are so well done that you can invite women from the community as well as members who don’t attend church regularly. The “Keeping the Faith” DVD set is available from AdventSource for $29.95. The show is aired regularly on the Hope Channel, and you can also view it on the Internet at biggytv.com/ sda/index.php and click on Health and Lifestyle. Women’s Ministries offers leadership training for women who want to enhance their leadership skills or who are new to church leadership in any department or level of the church. The series of four CDs offers Women’s Ministries Leadership Certification Levels 1-4 (each CD is purchased separately from AdventSource) with training in church and biblical history, women’s issues such as juggling family and career, and general leadership skills. For more information about Women’s Ministries resources, contact the NAD Women’s Ministries Department at 301-680-6427 or visit the Web site.

Carla Baker is director for North American Division Women’s Ministries.

leadmagazine.org

TOOL KIT

Series Theme: Understanding Our Endeavor

The Glorious Burden By César González

he Bible describes the glory of God in many places as a consuming fire or a thick cloud that sounds like thundering waters. When the ark of the covenant was built, God’s own glory presided over it. God told Moses that He would meet him and speak to him from between the two angels on the cover of the ark. In fact, Aaron was not to come into the Most Holy Place without being called, or he would die from the sheer power of the presence of God (Lev. 16:2). In the history of the world there had never been such a holy artifact, one so powerful that it could kill with its mere presence. No king or queen has ever matched its importance; no trophy or prize has ever been so glorious. The ark was so holy that there was a strict protocol on how to handle it. This protocol was in place not to protect the ark, but those who must work around it. The Division of the Levites The Levites were chosen as the tribe to serve as priests. This meant that they had to take care of the tabernacle and all its contents, including the ark of the covenant. They were split into three families, each with its own job: • The Gershonites were in charge of the tents, curtains, and ropes. • The Merarites were in charge of the posts, crossbars, frames, and bases. • The Kohathites were in charge of the holy artifacts, the most important being the ark. But they could not even look at it! Aaron and his sons were to wrap it carefully before it could be seen by anyone else. When the tabernacle was finished and consecrated, each tribe gave a gift to the Levites that consisted of carts and oxen to help them with their work. The Merarites and Gershonites received these gifts to help them carry their loads, but the Kohathites did not, because the ark, being so holy, was to be carried only on their shoulders. Unlike the other tribes Levites did not receive property in the Promised Land. God Himself was their inheritance, and only Aaron and his sons had more important duties. Whenever the Israelite camp moved, the Kohathites would march out through the camp and others would go ahead to make sure the tabernacle was set up when the Kohathites arrived. Still, can you imagine the difficulty of this task? For 40 years this group of men carried the ark on their shoulders 46

through the burning heat of the desert. You can picture that after a few days of marching, carrying the ark stopped seeming like a privilege and more like an encumbrance. As the sweat poured down their bodies, the sun beating down mercilessly on their heads, the ark must have stopped feeling like the residing place of God’s glory and more like a very heavy box, a burden that no one else could understand. Everyone else in the camp of millions had help with their loads, but the Kohathites had to go it alone. Your Load Sometimes leadership is a lonely and cumbersome affair. Facilitating the Sabbath School lesson can become a burden, one that no one else knows or wants. You become the study police, the person who checks for teachers’ progress in a tired and stressed class. You might feel like a Kohathite grinding through his heavy duties every day in the desert. But you must never forget how holy your charge is, how privileged you are among the assembly. For sitting in the class every week are those who have dared share the daily principles that move attention heavenward. Think of how incredible that is. For all its importance, Jesus would not have died for the ark of the covenant. As dull and tiresome as Satan would have it seem, entrusted to you is the highest of honors, and just as for the Kohathites, God Himself is your inheritance. When He returns, you will find yourself in a place of privilege, rewarded for your hard work here on earth. So as you carry your important burden, cherish it—and smile.

César González is a freelance writer and motivational speaker. His new book is entitled The God I Saw.

leadmagazine.org

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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Series Theme: Understanding Our Endeavor

TOOL KIT

The Servant Leader By César González

esus was the best example of a servant leader. Let’s review a few principles gleaned from His ministry.

• It’s not about you. Class facilitators must remember that the most important person is not the one speaking up front but each person in the group. Everything you do or say should be weighed against the benefit of the audience. As such, it is important that you know whom you are serving. Take time to get to know your group members, and always put their needs before your preferences. The moment you care more about yourself than the child of Christ in your group is the moment you have stopped being His leader.

• Invest in the rams. Always be on the lookout for people—rams in the thicket, so to speak—to mentor into leadership. More important than your facilitation ability is your receptive heart that prompts people to respond to you. Remember that investing means giving of yourself. You must commit your time and energy to this venture.

• Made to serve. The talents that allow you to be a leader were given to you by God. By using them to help others, you glorify His name. Nothing is more fulfilling than carrying out the purpose for which you were created. Keep this in mind when you feel inadequate or unsure of your calling to serve. Before you start your duties, take a moment to reflect on the wonder that is God working through you. Pray for forgiveness for specific sins, and ask God to cleanse your mind of anything that may stand in the way of your ministry. Then, confidently go into your task that God assigned to you for that very moment. • Multiply your return. The more you give to God, the more He gives you in return. If you take time to expand your ministry, God will give you the talents and skills that will amaze you. As you grow into new responsibilities, new leaders will rise to grow and learn from you. • Expect “pickles” and predicaments. Don’t be discouraged by opposition; Jesus faced it all through His ministry. Critics and unsupportive leaders, pickles, are always going to exist. Jesus said that we would be persecuted in His name, predicaments, so you should expect to have problems as part of a vibrant ministry. If you have no tribulations, it’s time to worry. • Meld. Only God can separate the chaff from the wheat. Always strive to be inclusive and impartial, especially if you have not been treated that way. If what you are doing causes division, it is not the Lord’s work. Go back to Him for clarification.

• Live upward. Trying to pretend that you are something you are not will always end in failure. In order to effect any spiritual progress in the lives of the people you are leading, there must be steady and continuous spiritual progress in your life. A daily devotional routine and strong prayer life are the

LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

leadmagazine.org

TOOL KIT

• Know your goal. Again, your goal is neither to make yourself look good nor to entertain. We can never compete with the world in terms of entertainment; the world can never compete with the power of the Holy Spirit to move people. Your role and pleasure is to be a conduit for the Holy Spirit to do His holy work, a work you could never do alone. Your job is to bridge the gap between people and God by creating an atmosphere that is inviting to both parties, just as Jesus did. You should prayerfully plan inspiring and relevant interaction. Back up principles with illustrations, and always be warm and inviting. When you “step on toes,” confess to God and the wounded. Ask all involved to pray with you and for you.

cornerstones of a strong spiritual leader. To carry out your tasks successfully, keep God close. Depend on His power.

TOOL KIT

Series Theme: Understanding Our Endeavor

Relationships Aim for the Heart By David Robinson

question often posed to Sabbath School leaders is how attendance in Sabbath School among the youth can be increased. They then present a myriad of solutions so that there can be no excuses for not attending. For the young people who find it especially hard to wake up early in the morning, the alternative of afternoon worship was presented. Also, for those who choose to nap or simply don’t want to be bothered with the “church-after-church” routine, the Friday night Sabbath School has also proven to be an appropriate alternative. As a 22-year-old male, people ask me why I choose not to attend. My reason? I don’t find Sabbath School interesting. I have been to many Sabbath School classes and, to me, they’re all the same. A few strongly opinionated class members give their views while everyone else either nods in agreement or sits back and says nothing. I fall into the category of the latter. By nature I am a shy person. I have my views, but I don’t like to impose them on other people. So if no one asks for my opinion, I’m rather comfortable just sitting back and letting the discussion continue. I believe many young people feel the same way. The Sabbath School classroom too closely resembles an actual school classroom. And let’s be real; who wants to go to class six days a week? Referring back to the original question, is there a solution? Well, forcing the parents to bring their college-age offspring to Sabbath School might work. But who wants them to come begrudgingly? Leaders want people at Sabbath School who want to be there. So what can be done? I guess Sabbath School leaders could try to bribe people into coming. Maybe some candy, cash prizes, or even the chance at a free cruise or car may work! Do you see where this is going? There aren’t enough gimmicks, nor are there any magic potions to lure young adults to Sabbath School. They simply have to want to come. “Well how do we get them to want to come?” asks the persistent Sabbath School leader. Since choice is a matter of the heart, then it is only through divine intervention that they will come. What, then, is left to offer to the youth, myself included? Prayer and a lasting relationship. This means treating the invitation to Sabbath School like an offer to something that will last a lifetime rather than a couple of consecutive Sabbaths.

Back in the Stone Age, one may have taken a blunt object and bludgeoned someone into a relationship, but the times have changed. Nowadays, to show interest in someone, communication is key. Regularly speaking with someone, sending text messages, care packages, etc.—all are expressions of care. Don’t simply try to belittle the youth into coming to Sabbath School. Show them how much they’re needed, and then let the Lord do His work on their hearts. When courting/talking to the one that you think surpasses everyone else, a simple sentence such as “You should be with me, and no one else,” won’t work unless you’re in the superstar status of a Chris Brown or Rihanna. Weeks and sometimes months of coaxing and persuasion may be required to convince someone to be with you. The same goes for inviting someone to Sabbath School. There should be a sense of urgency in trying to get the young people to Sabbath School, but not a rush. A frantic invitation will do leaders no good. After all, the road to salvation isn’t a race; it’s a relationship. Slow and steady binds the hearts.

David Robinson is an intern for LEAD magazine. He graduated from Oakwood University with a degree in communications.

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ADULT SABBATH SCHOOL BIBLE STUDY GUIDE COMPANION BOOK FOURTH QUARTER 2009

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Quarterly Overview By Clifford Goldstein

The Book of Numbers

his overview could be presented to the full church membership by partnering with your pastor. Other partnerships for presentation venues include the personal ministries director and the Adventist youth director. Presentation partners include directors of church communication, women’s ministries, health, and Vacation Bible School. Presentations could vary from simply using a variety of age groups and genders, using one narrator and a variety of costumed and silent characters that flow across the stage, or a narrated slide show.

EVANGELISM Members must invite their non-Adventist friends who like Bible history and/or drama. Include nonmember Vacation Bible School students in this type of presentation. Provide half-sheet handouts listing the dates and titles of each Sabbath School lesson to be discussed in the adult and children’s divisions. Week 1: In the opening chapter we find the Lord organizing the children of Israel for their sacred task and calling. We see His clearly defined plans for all aspects of the nation—nothing left to chance. Week 2 deals with more questions of how the Lord wanted His people to live and survive, in the harsh wilderness surroundings. Some time is dedicated to dealing with the question of hygiene and disease control—very important emphases for God’s ancient people—and with some moral questions, especially in the area of marriage. Week 3 addresses the dedication, the consecration, and the ministry of the sanctuary in the wilderness, in which the plan of salvation was taught to Israel through the types and shadows of that system. Through this study, we can learn many truths about God’s work for the benefit of humanity. Week 4 focuses on the celebration of the Passover, a symbol not only of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt but of the promise we have in Christ delivering us from sin. Week 5 zeroes in on some of the major mistakes that the children of Israel made: apostasy at the Jordan, worship of the golden calf, etc. The Lord presents this to us because He wants us to learn from their mistakes and avoid them in our own time and context. Week 6 reflects on the Lord’s willingness to use this covenant people to the degree that they would allow themselves to be used. This week deals with more instruction given to the Israelites regarding how they were to live, including the section on how they should relate to foreigners. 50

Week 7 deals with the sad story of the rebellion of Korah and his brothers. What it shows is how easily our hearts can deceive us, and how we can veil the basest passions and ambitions under the most shallow veneers of piety and “holiness.” Week 8 addresses the aftermath of the rebellion and changes to be made in the priesthood, the Lord’s division of the labor, and with the important question of tithe. Week 9 traces the passing of the generation of the Exodus, touches on the sin of Moses in smiting the rock, and brings us to the death of Aaron and the passing of the torch to a new generation. Week 10 brings us to the interesting story of Balaam. We see how even a good man can go astray, allowing sin (in this case, covetousness) to lead him down a wrong path. What a lesson to us all! Week 11 presents another sad account of a people, though so blessed of God, delving into apostasy and rank immorality. Just on the borders of the Promised Land, many of the children of Israel allow themselves to be seduced into sin and its terrible consequences. Week 12: The title alone pretty much gives away the message of this lesson: “The Second Generation: Admonitions.” As a new generation received the privileges and responsibilities of the covenant nation, the Lord wanted to give them encouragement, warnings, and admonitions not to make the mistakes of their fathers. Week 13: The quarter ends with the concept of the “cities of refuge,” an institution in Israel designed to help deal with justice and revenge. In these cities we can also see a type, an example, of the refuge we can have in Christ.

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Clifford Goldstein, an ordained minister, is editor of the Adult Bible Study Guide.

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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HANDS ON By Barry Kimbrough

A New Order, September 26-October 2 Worship and Dedication, October 10-16

LEARNING OBJECTIVE • To experience God’s plan for reverence: a kinesthetic activity • To practice the laying on of hands for spiritual blessing: a tactile activity MATERIALS NEEDED A chair for each class member, a large cardboard box and gray paper to cover it, and some rope.

WORSHIP AND DEDICATION A Tactile Activity Ask if any class members would like to have special prayer including the Bible ritual of lying on of hands. They are free to share the prayer request, or keep it silent, as they wish. Have an empty chair ready and request the volunteer to take this seat while class members gather around and place hands on the person’s head or shoulders. Ask one person or more to give prayers of intermission and dedication, as time allows. Repeat for others who desire this ministry. If the class is large, prearrange for a number of volunteers to give the hands-on blessing for those in need. In this tactile exercise, we see the power of touch. Jesus and the apostles used this method of giving blessing. Ask class members what value they see in this practice. Some Scriptures for review: Gen. 48:8-20; Num. 27:18-23; Matt. 19:13-15; Acts 13:1-3.

Barry Kimbrough is pastor for the Taunton and Foxboro churches in southeastern Massachusetts. The busy Kimbrough household includes his wife, Olena, a nurse, and 4-year-old Karolina.

LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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HANDS ON

A NEW ORDER A Kinesthetic Activity Arrange chairs facing inward in a hollow square against the walls of the room—one row each for north, south, east, and west. Use the greatest possible distance between opposite rows, while maintaining a perfect square. Place box on floor in center. Cover with gray paper. Lay the rope on the floor around the box, leaving an open space in the rope on the east side to use as an entrance gate. Explain that this seating arrangement is patterned after Israel’s camp structure described in Numbers 2. The chairs on the four sides represent the tribal tents on each side of the tabernacle. The box and rope stand for the tabernacle and curtain that surrounded its outer court. The gray paper draped over the box represents the badger skin covering the structure (Ex. 26:14). Ask class members to walk to the middle of the room and face the gate on the east side of the outer court where many Hebrews

would gather for morning and evening worship when the general sacrificial offerings were made and where others would bring personal sacrifices during the day. Mention that the size of the building was about half of a volleyball court, with the outer area being a bit larger. Point out that this site was more than a half-mile walk from the tents. Have participants return to their seats. Note that the building had several layers of coverings and two veils hiding the Most Holy Place, where God’s presence was manifest. Awe and wonder filled the hearts of the people as they gazed across the expanse and saw the holy dwelling of their Creator who lived in its hidden innermost sanctum. In this interesting arrangement, we see God’s nearness to the people and also His holiness separated. Discuss what lessons this organizational pattern provides. The impressive layout was a source of inspiration even to outsiders (Num. 24:1, 2).

HANDS ON By Barry Kimbrough

From Complaints to Apostasy, October 24-30 Planning Ahead, October 31-November 6

LEARNING OBJECTIVE • To learn the importance of cooperation and submission to group needs: a tactile activity • To discover how to turn strangers into friends and win them for Christ: a kinesthetic activity MATERIALS NEEDED Yarn and scissors

PLANNING AHEAD A Kinesthetic Activity Ask two volunteers to step out while the class prepares for a special exercise. Privately explain to the volunteers that they must wait until asked to return before returning and trying to rejoin the class. Ask several people in the class to stand in a circle facing inward. Tell them to ignore the first volunteer—talking to one another and ignoring that person. No one should be friendly to the newcomer. But when the second volunteer enters, they should all immediately welcome that person into the group. Call in the first volunteer. This person will quickly feel rejected by the group and will sit down. Have the second volunteer enter. Note the difference that warmth and openness makes for that person. Ask the first volunteer to read Numbers 15:14-16. What does the Bible say about how we should treat strangers? Outsiders are to be welcomed and treated equally as insiders. Ask: “What lessons do we learn from the Bible passage? How can we live this way today?” *This activity was adapted from Tracy Wiser’s article “Yarn Circle” in Creative Meetings, Bible Lessons, and Worship Ideas for Youth Groups, p. 79.

FROM COMPLAINTS TO APOSTASY A Tactile Activity Have participants sit or stand in a circle. Give each person an 18-inch piece of yarn. Explain that the yarn represents individuality and personal opinion. Ask each class member to think about this sentence: If I were president of the General Conference, I would lead the church to do more _________________. Allow one minute for participants to share with those next to them how they would finish that sentence. There will be a variety of ideas about what the church should do. Invite anyone who wants to share their thoughts with the entire group to do so. Ask: “What is the secret to unity even when we don’t all think alike?” Sometimes personal opinion and group achievement don’t get along well. The story of Miriam and Aaron in Numbers 12 illustrates sinful independence. The story of the spies in chapter 13 shows how the majority view can be wrong. How can we avoid the mistakes of these two chapters? After the time of sharing, each person (one at a time) ties their string to that of the next person to form a circle of yarn that symbolizes union and harmony.

At the end of the class, cut a section of string for each participant to keep, leaving a knot on each person’s section to denote their individuality and also their connection with others in the body of Christ.*

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OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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HANDS ON By Barry Kimbrough

The “Madness” of the Prophet, November 28-December 4 Immorality on the Border, December 5-11

LEARNING OBJECTIVE •To learn kindness for animals: a tactile activity • To learn self-distrust in face of temptation: a kinesthetic activity

THE “MADNESS” OF THE PROPHET A Tactile Activity Pass out the stuffed animals or animal figurines. Have participants share, so that everyone handles them. Ask who has pets and what kind. Ask if anyone has a favorite wild animal. Ask a volunteer to read the story of Balaam and the donkey in Numbers 22:22-33. Ask: How many times Balaam hit the donkey and how the Lord reacted. What does this say about God’s attitude about His creatures? Ask a volunteer to read Proverbs 12:10. Discuss what class members can do to show greater kindness to animals. Discuss the issues of endangered species and cruelty to animals. IMMORALITY ON THE BORDER A Kinesthetic Activity Ask who would like to try doing a series of push-ups. Try to get as many volunteers as possible. Instruct them to keep their body straight with only feet and hands touching the floor. Ask them to keep count. When they reach their limit, ask them to return to their seats. Ask: • “How many push-ups did you do?” • “Was doing push-ups harder than you thought?” • “Is anyone ready to compete for the world title in pushups?” This was probably a humbling activity because it revealed physical limits. Although we must know the limits of our physLEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

MATERIALS NEEDED Several different stuffed animals/animal figures

ical strength, it is more important to know our spiritual strength. Ask: • “How do we become aware of our spiritual weaknesses?” • “What are the dangers of not knowing how weak we are in the face of temptation?” Have a volunteer read Numbers 25:1-3. Discuss the steps toward idol worship that the Hebrews took. Find the three sins mentioned in the text. Ask: • “What led to the failure of the tempted?” • “Did the tempted know they were in danger before they fell?” The story reveals that they didn’t know. • A volunteer to read 1 Corinthians 10:12. Ask: • “Why is it important to distrust our own strength when it comes to temptation?” • “What might we do differently if we know our weaknesses better, and what benefits will this have?” Examples: A woman with a weakness for eating ice cream in the middle of the night might do well to avoid keeping ice cream in the freezer. A man with a weakness for alcohol might do well to reroute his path rather than walk past a bar.

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HANDS ON By Faith Crumbly

The Book of Numbers

Go to leadmagazine.org for more lesson-based puzzles.

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OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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EXEGESIS & HERMENEUTICS Jesus and Scripture, Part 7 By Ekkehardt Mueller

n this last segment on Jesus and Scripture, we will spend a moment on Jesus’ interpretation of Scripture and then summarize what we have studied so far.

Summary We have looked at the four Gospels and Jesus’ statements about Scripture as found in these. We checked how Jesus dealt with persons mentioned in the Old Testament and with historical reports. We looked at His Old Testament quotations and found that He used quotations from all major parts of the Old Testament and stressed in a special way love and keeping the commandments. The introductory statements to the Old Testament quotations that Jesus used were especially helpful in providing a picture of His view of Scripture. Then we asked how Jesus related to the law and what it meant to Him. The law refers not only to legal material but also to the Pentateuch and the entire Old Testament. Finally, we dealt with Jesus’ other statements about Scripture. The picture that we get from this study is consistent: • Jesus trusted the Scripture of His time, the Old Testament. LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Conclusion Jesus’ attitude toward Scripture is an example for His followers. Jesus’ method of interpreting the Bible changes people’s lives so that they gain a new perspective and a new goal and hope in life. This is what the risen Lord still offers today.

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Ekkehardt Mueller is an associate director for the General Conference Biblical Research Institute.

EXEGESIS

Jesus’ Method of Interpreting Scripture Throughout our research we have seen that Jesus understood the Old Testament in a literal way. The people of the Old Testament were real people. In addition, persons and events typologically pointed toward Jesus, and He recognized that. However, Jesus may also have used principles of biblical interpretation that were employed during His time and were true to Scripture. For instance, Rabbi Hillel formulated seven rules for the exposition of Scripture. Jesus may have followed some of them implicitly, though not in a strict and stylized way. Luke 12:24 reflects Hillel’s rule of reasoning from minor to major, also called a fortiori: “Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds?” (Emphasis supplied.) Luke 6:1-5 resembles Hillel’s second rule, namely an inference is drawn from a comparable or similar situation. Luke 20:37, 38 reflects Hillel’s third rule: a general principle is derived from the teaching found in one biblical verse. Another rule was that the context determines the interpretation of a word or a passage. In Matthew 19:4-8 when discussing the issue of divorce, Jesus refers to the context of Creation to show what is God’s intention about marriage.

He had absolute confidence in the Old Testament as the Word of God. God had spoken. • Jesus considered the prophets to be reliable mediators of God’s message. The prophets were inspired by God. To a large extent, their prophecies have been fulfilled. Jesus understood their predictions about the Messiah to be fulfilled in Himself. • Jesus recognized the historical reliability of Scripture. All important events in Israel’s history as well as the Creation and the Flood were accepted by Him. He did not take them symbolically but considered them to be literal. • Jesus also believed in human authorship. The person cited in the respective work as author really was the human author of that bibical book. • Divine interventions in human history. For example, divine interventions in the form of miracles were no problem for Jesus. • Jesus interpreted Scripture literally and typologically. He did not use philosophical or other presuppositions that are foreign to Scripture as is common practice with critical approaches today. • Jesus did not limit Scripture. He did not relativize God’s Word by taking it as solely culturally conditioned and, thereby, deleting its transcendent character. • He attested that God’s will and work can be seen through Scripture. Biblical doctrines are founded in the Bible and can be defended by Scripture. The Old Testament was Jesus’ yardstick for His behavior. In no way was Jesus opposed to the Old Testament. • Jesus held that Scripture has practical value. He used Scripture to strengthen His faith and as a weapon against temptations. Jesus expected, and still expects, His disciples to know Scripture.

Adult Bible Study

EXEGESIS Transcendent and Imminent: September 28 Jeremiah 23:23, 24 By Ekkehardt Mueller

n Jeremiah’s lifetime God’s Word and God Himself were not much appreciated. Both were attacked by the king and false prophets. Today God’s Word is effective, but people reduce it to human words, robbing it of authority. They replace God’s Word with philosophy, psychology, sociology, science, and their own insights. They do not question their personal tastes, insights, emotions, and cultural values; they question God and His Word. They do not listen to His Word or follow it; they reinterpret it. They do not take time for His Word.

Analysis of the Context Jeremiah had severe problems with the kings of Judah (Jeremiah 22). For instance, King Jehoiakim not only disregarded God’s Word; he even dared to have a scroll, the Word of God, cut and burned (Jer. 36). In his arrogance, the king finally revolted against the Babylonians. In 597 B.C., Jerusalem was invaded, and his son Jehoiachin was taken prisoner and deported to Babylon as Jeremiah had predicted (Jer. 22:24-26). Jeremiah also had to deal with the prophets (Jer. 23). His entire book reflects this battle. For instance, in Jeremiah 28, the true prophet had to confront and oppose the false prophet, Hananiah. Jeremiah proclaimed calamity, while Hananiah proclaimed peace and prosperity. So Jeremiah had to tell Hananiah that the Lord had not sent him, that he was preaching lies. Therefore, Jeremiah said Hananiah would die the very same year (Jer. 28:15-17). This prophecy also was fulfilled. False prophets proclaimed good news to try to please the king and the people. God accused them of being worse than Israel’s Baal prophets (Jer. 23:13, 14) because of their immoral life and hypocrisy. Claiming to have received divine dreams, they denied God with their lifestyle and hindered people from repenting while believing they would be safe and secure. God’s judgment came upon the false prophets (verses 25-32). In verse 28, in irony God calls the false prophet to relate his dreams, illusions, and inventions of his own heart rather than a revelation by God. Therefore the dream had become a dangerous opponent of the Word of God. On the other hand, the genuine prophet shares what God has revealed to him (verses 28, 29)—not a product of his fancy. Human dreams and words are worthless, weak, and empty. God’s Word counts. It remains and must truthfully be passed on. 56

Analysis of the Text In this context of false prophecy versus true prophecy, God talks about Himself in verses 23 and 24. “‘Am I a God near at hand,’ says the Lord, ‘and not a God afar off?’” This passage clearly deals with God’s transcendence and His immanence. Yes, God is the faraway God. He “alone possesses immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see” (1 Tim. 6:16). He needs to reveal Himself for us to get glimpses of His love, majesty, and power. Even then we cannot fully understand Him. But, yes, God is also very near. He walked among His people of old. He met with His people in His sanctuary on earth, and came closest to us in the incarnation of His Son Jesus Christ. God is both far and near, and we should not give up one true statement in favor of the other. Both are correct and must be kept in a healthy tension, so that we do not fall into heresy that severs our relationship with God. Verse 24 also affirms God’s immanence and transcendence: “‘Can anyone hide himself in secret places, so I shall not see him?’ says the Lord; ‘Do I not fill heaven and earth?’ says the Lord.” While the smallest things are not hidden from Him, He is also the Lord of the universe, encompassing everything. This verse reflects Psalm 139, where God’s omniscience is described in great detail. According to Isaiah 6:3: “The whole earth is full of His glory!” God’s greatness is incomparable. He is not a local deity that does not see what people do and speak. The false prophets understood Yahweh as a distant God who was not aware of their actions. They were so wrong. God sees every hiding place and every sin. He sees and hears when false prophets declare their own words to be utterances of the Lord. He sees their immoral life and how they pervert what He wants to reveal to humanity. Therefore, He is able to judge them, and He will. Application While the biblical concept of the transcendence and imminent of God may be frightening to those who would like to live without Him and to those who disregard and pervert His Word, this account is extremely comforting to those who have accepted Him and follow Him. The righteous have a God who is all wise and powerful, a God who loves them and draws very close to them.

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OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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Adult Bible Study

EXEGESIS Failure at Canaan’s Border November 24: Numbers 21:1-5 By Kwabena Donkor

ailure is an event, never a person—so it is said. In other words failing, even often, should not lead any person to conclude that they are a failure. To represent failure as an event helps us to realize that the person who fails, as well as others coming after him or her, has the opportunity of learning from the event. The failure of the children of Israel recorded in Numbers 21:1-5 is an event from which all of God’s people can learn. The Context The children of Israel were camped at Kadesh. Prior to camping here, the rebellion of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram had occurred, and thousands had died (Num. 16). Meanwhile, at Kadesh, Miriam also died (Num. 20:1). Other mishaps were to follow. Water supply ceased and, as usual, the multitude began to chide Moses. This time they argued that it would have been better for them to have died with their brothers who perished in the Korah rebellion (verse 3; Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 414). Deuteronomy 2:4-6 appears to provide a reason why the water had ceased, suggesting that God had made provision for the people’s needs by planning for them to go through the territory of Edom (descendants of Esau). Obviously, Moses must have relayed this message to the people, but that did not seem to change their view about their circumstances. Frustrated, Moses and Aaron appeared before God at the tabernacle with the complaints, whereupon God directed them to speak to a rock before them in order to get water. But Moses assembled the people before the rock (Num. 20:10). Obviously upset by the people’s behavior, he struck the rock twice instead of speaking to it (verse 11). Water flowed, but God was not pleased with Moses and Aaron, because they had not hallowed Him, “in the eyes of the children of Israel” (verse 12). In the meantime, the King of Edom refused to allow Israel to go through their city (verses 14-21), forcing them to take a more difficult path to mount Hor. Here Aaron was made to pass on his office to his son, and he died there because of his leadership failure at the rock. The people went into mourning for 30 days.

Arad, preemptively attacked Israel and took some captives, but the result was a complete victory for Israel. This time, unlike their fathers (Num. 14:41-45), the people fought under God’s blessing (Num. 21:3). After their victory, Israel started out again. In order to avoid the cities of Edom, they went south and east instead of north and west, a seemingly intolerable backtracking course. Canaan had been close in sight, but now they seemed to be wandering again. The text is careful to point out that the people were discouraged “because of the way” (verse 4). With the people being so discouraged, the issue of food resurfaced. They spoke against Moses and God, wishing to be in Egypt rather than die in the wilderness. And the reason for the complaint was lack of food and water. As far as they saw it, there was “no bread” and water, and if anyone cared to describe manna as bread, they would describe it as “light bread” (verse 5). The phrase characterizes “manna” as worthless, miserable, and contemptible. The judgment for their action was the invasion of fiery serpents into the camp until the brazen serpent was put up for their redemption (verses 6-9). Application One of the lessons that stands out in this episode is the enormity of sin in the sight of God. Our passage under study and its context make it very clear that both the leaders and the children of Israel had come under very severe difficulties and trials. Those circumstances, from our perspective, would incline us to justify or at least excuse the lapses that the people demonstrated. Yet God did not excuse the sins of the leaders nor the people. This underscores that whatever situations we face, the responsibility for any actions we take is ours. God knows that it is possible to be faithful to Him—not in our own strength, of course, but by counting on His help. Finally, the quick sequence in Israel’s experience from faithfulness (Num. 21:2, 3) to faithlessness (verse 5) should warn each one of us to be humble in our walk with God, trusting our impulses only to His direction and control. Kwabena Donkor is an associate director for the General Conference Biblical Research Institute.

The Text Most scholars agree that the path that Israel took to Mount Hor is better translated the “way of the Atharim,” and not the “way of the spies” (Num. 21:1). In any case, the Canaanite king, LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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Adult Bible Study

EXEGESIS God in Pergamum: December 7 Revelation 2:14 By Ekkehardt Mueller

ergamum was one of the seven churches to which Jesus sent a message in Revelation 2 and 3. An important religious center at this time, the acropolis in Pergamum rose about 1,000 feet above the plain. The huge altar dedicated to Zeus impressed the traveler. People came from afar to be treated at a center dedicated to the god Asclepius. In addition, several temples erected in honor of Roman emperors made the city a center of emperor worship. The danger for Christians in such an environment was—and still is—to give in and compromise. Analysis of the Context Jesus introduces Himself to the church in Pergamum as the One who has the sharp, double-edged sword coming out of His mouth (Rev. 2:12, 16). Obviously, the sword refers to the Word of God and points to judgment. The section dealing with praise (verse 13) indicates that despite adversity the church in Pergamum remained faithful to the Lord. Jesus knows the members and the problems of living, “where Satan’s throne is.” Verse 13 ends with “where Satan dwells.” Thus the praise comes in the framework of extremely difficult circumstances. The church suffers persecution, e.g., Antipas had been killed. The “throne of Satan” could refer to (1) Pergamum as a center of pagan worship; (2) the acropolis looking like a throne; (3) the altar of “Zeus the savior”; (4) the god Asclepius who was identified with the serpent, which is a symbol for Satan in Revelation 12:9; and (5) Pergamum as a center of the imperial cult. The last option is preferred by many expositors. But no matter how we understand the phrase, the message is clear enough. Although Satan seems to be in control, he is not; God is. Analysis of the Text As the section on praise is introduced and ends with the dwelling place of Satan, verses 14 and 15 inform the church of the rebuke of the Lord, beginning and ending with a similar phrase. Instead of holding on to Jesus, the church in Pergamum has some members holding on to the teaching of Balaam and some holding on to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. It is possible that the teaching of Balaam and the Nicolaitans are the same thing, because the phrases are found in parallel positions. Between these two statements, the content of the false teaching is described. 58

The church of Pergamum reminds one of Balaam’s story in Numbers 22–25. After Balaam had been prevented from cursing Israel, he gave advice on how to overcome Israel. This devilish advice actually worked (Num. 31:16). Israel got involved in immorality and idolatry, and judgment came upon them. A similar situation arose in the church of Pergamum when members allowed heresy to prevail. The Jerusalem Council decided that Christians should abstain from food sacrificed to idols and from sexual immorality (Acts 15:20). But members of the church in Pergamum got involved in these things and compromised. “Sexual immorality” may refer to idolatry more than to sexual acts. Already in the Old Testament “immorality” was used as a metaphor for apostasy and idolatry (Eze. 23). The question in Pergamum was how much to adapt to the culture. Does the liberty that we have in Christ give us the license to get involved in heresy and a questionable lifestyle, that is, to sin? Views varied, and some decided to pursue a liberal agenda, including eating pagan meals and participating in idolatry. But Jesus criticizes such a lifestyle and theology. Immorality and idolatry are not acceptable, and syncretism is not an option for Him. Therefore, He calls the church in Pergamum to repent and makes a wonderful promise to those who listen and change their attitude (Rev. 2:16, 17). Application The message to the church in Pergamum is that even under difficult circumstances compromise with sin is wrong. Although we live in this world and must relate to people in order to help them, Jesus says that we are not to be a part of the world. Therefore, we must evaluate carefully how far we can adapt to the world that God loved so much that He gave His Son. We do not find Jesus accepting worldly standards in order to reach the world, and He did not sin. Christians must challenge questionable culture. Christians must speak up when political correctness suggests that they keep silent. Christians must reject relativism and pluralism when Scripture calls for clear decisions without latitude. Christians must refrain from debating whether to obey the will of God by calculating the potential outcome.

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BIBLE CLASS

October 3 A New Order

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “A New Order”? • God lives in a high and holy place, but He will also live with me (Isa. 57:15). • God is holy. Since I have given my life to Him, I should be holy (1 Peter 1:15, 16). • God organized the children of Israel’s encampment and the Seventh-day Adventist Church. He also brings order to my life (Num. 2:34; Eph. 4:11-13; Ps. 37:23). • God called the Levites to be the substitute for all the firstborn throughout Israel. In the same way God called Jesus to be my substitution and pay the price for my sins (Num. 3:12, 13; John 3:16). • I must be able to distinguish between holy and common things (Lev. 10:10).

TIMELY

the people to support this government. Friend: The government isn’t going to work if people don’t go along with the values and programs. Cooperation reduces confusion and chaos. Witness: You are right. We also need guidance and order in our lives. If not, we find ourselves in personal chaos. Friend: That’s actually how I have been feeling lately. But the government isn’t going to come in and tell me how to make my life better. Witness: That would be pretty scary if our country’s government came in and tried to run every part of our life. On the other hand, when we give Jesus control of our lives, He brings peace, wholeness, and healing to every imaginable area. Friend: I’ve got some pretty messy situations in my life Witness: Regardless of what that looks like, Jesus can fix it— when we let His government take over. Friend: I suppose that it couldn’t hurt—my self-management isn’t working. Witness: I have a good weekly support group of friends who have a variety of skills—and who allow Jesus to manage them all. Interested in joining us?

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “A New Order” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • My husband and I have a room in our home set aside as a sanctuary where we pray, meditate, or spend quiet time with God. The walls of the room are chalkboard so that we can write prayer requests. Whenever we have visitors, we invite them to write prayers, praise, and affirmations to God on our board. Even children notice the room is special, set apart for God, even on the first time they enter it.

HOW are the principles of “A New Order” seen today in the media? • Officials urge full support of new government. The United Top envoy for Somalia today lauded progress made in the past month by the new government of the Horn of Africa country that has been torn by factional strife since the overthrow of Siad Barre in 1991. In a statement issued in Nairobi, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s special representative, Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah, encouraged the Government of National Unity to continue working for peace and stability. He urged Somalis and the international community to support it (“Somalia: Top UN Envoy Praises New Government, Urges Full Support”; allafrica.com. March 13, 2009. Accessed March 15).

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I made as a result of studying “A New Order”? • I seek God’s order in my life—every day—by first asking God to reveal His plans and purposes for me. • I am finding more creative ways to share the benefits of God’s management.

Alicia Jones is a trainer in the 700 Club Prayer Counseling Center and a freelance writer. She graduated from Oakwood University with a degree in theology.

CONVERSATION

MEASURABLE

Friend: It seems as if there are so many unstable governments in the world. I hope that the one in Somalia actually works. Witness: Yes, me too. I see that Somalian officials are urging LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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CLAIM

WHY should I study “A New Order”? • To better understand God’s divine order in my life. • To recognize the holiness of God and understand His desire for intimacy with me. • To see how God’s plan of redemption was always a part of His divine plan. • To be able to distinguish between the manner that sacred and common things are handled.

BIBLE CLASS

October 10 Preparing a People

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “Preparing a People”? • To better understand how God has given me rules to help me survive. • To better recognize that God’s principles are concrete blessings to my life. • To see how God wants me to handle my relationships. • To internalize that God’s desire is actually to be gracious to me—to bless and sustain me.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “Preparing a People”? • Just as sickness and disease separated individuals from Israel’s encampment, my sins separate me from God (Num. 5:3; Isa. 59:1). • Although my sins make me spiritually dirty, God cleanses me when I confess and repent (1 John 1:9). • When I wrong someone, I am actually injuring God (Num. 5:6). • God wants me to be faithful to my spouse and in all ways honor my marriage, because He does judge (Heb. 13:4). • Even though I’m not a Levite, I can separate myself for the Lord’s service and live a holy life (Num. 6:8). • God desires that I be blessed and prosperous (Num. 6:2426; 3 John 1:2). • In the same way that the priest prayed for the congregation of Israel, Jesus Christ is interceding for me (Heb. 7:25).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “Preparing a People” evident today in the media? • Husband seeks divorce. (CNN) “Blake Fielder-Civil is trying to kick his Amy Winehouse habit now that he’s seen photos of the singer cavorting with another man in the Caribbean while he sits in a British jail. Celebrity lawyer, Henri Brandman, confirmed to CNN that Fielder-Civil has asked him “to commence divorce proceedings on the grounds of Amy’s adultery.” Winehouse was quoted by a London tabloid last week that she is “off the drugs for good” and has a new man in her life, 21-year-old actor, Josh Bowman (Alan Duke “Amy Winehouse’s Husband Seeks Divorce”; www.cnn.com/2009/SHOWBIZ/Music /01/12/winehouse.divorce. January 12, 2009. Accessed March 15).

messy divorces. Witness: Divorce is so commonplace. I can’t imagine why it’s considered “news.” Neighbor: I don’t even expect people to stay married anymore. If they make it 10 years, I think they are doing good. Witness: I believe that God still expects people to stay married. He knows broken marriages cause so much pain. He says He hates divorce. Neighbor: But marriage can be difficult. Witness: Yes. But marriage is so much easier with God as a partner with the couple. He created marriage and even laid out guidelines for happy marriages. Neighbor: To be honest, my husband and I could use a little help right now. Witness: God is able to help. He gives us His rules, because He knows what will bring us the greatest possible blessings in our lives. Neighbor: I think I would like to give God a chance to work in my marriage. Witness: We have a Family Life Department at our church that is hosting a “Marriage Repair Seminar.” The classes begin next week. Shall I bring you a brochure?

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “Preparing a People” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • When people tell me their problems, I ask them if they would like to pray about it right on the spot. In the same way the priests of Israel prayed for people, I pray for the people God puts in my path. • Each morning I consecrate my life to the Lord and ask Him to use me as His servant. • I remind my friends at church that they can be used by God on their jobs, even if they aren’t in ministry—as long as they consecrate themselves to Him.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I made as a result of studying “Preparing a People”? • Whenever I do something to offend someone, I go to them quickly and ask for their forgiveness. • I immediately ask God to forgive me for hurting one of His children.

CONVERSATION

Neighbor: I get so sick of news reports about celebrities’ 60

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BIBLE CLASS

October 17 Worship and Dedication

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “Worship and Dedication”? • To better understand how God created and redeemed both ancient Israel and me. • To more clearly recognize that the truths God taught to Israel through rituals are, in principle, the same truths I learn today in His Word. • To realize that although worship styles vary to some degree. I worship the same God Israel worshipped. • To internalize that communion with God, reflection on the cross of Christ, prayer, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the dedication of my life to God require worship principles that cross the barriers of time and culture.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “Worship and Dedication”? • The priest offered many sacrifices. When Jesus offered His body, I was sanctified once and for all (Heb. 10:8-10). • Without the shedding of Jesus’ blood, my sins could not be forgiven (Heb. 9:22). • The Israelites could not come close to the Most Holy Place where God dwelled. Because Jesus acts as my High Priest, I can boldly go to the throne of God and receive grace and mercy (Heb. 4:14-16). • God is with me even when it seems that I am going through the valley of the shadow of death, so I don’t have to be afraid (Ps. 23:4). • God also calls me to offer myself to Him as a living sacrifice. The way I live for Him is one way that I worship Him (Rom. 12:1).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “Worship and Dedication” evident today in the media? • Hiker sacrificed life for wife. “A hiker who lost his life on Mount Rainier lay down in the snow and used his body’s warmth to protect his wife and a friend from the 70-mph winds of a freak June blizzard,” a national park official said. Eduard Burceag, 31, lay down in the snow while his wife and friend lay on top of him. Later, when they begged him to switch places, Mr. Burceag refused, saying he was OK (washingtontimes.com/news/2008/jun/14/mount-rainier -hiker-sacrificed-life-for-wife-frien/. June 14, 2008. Accessed March 15, 2009).

their life for someone else. Witness: But that is the ultimate expression of love. Coworker: I don’t know if I love anyone that much. And, I don’t know anyone who loves me that much. Witness: I know someone who loves you that much. Coworker: Don’t tell me you are willing to die for me! Witness: I don’t know if I would be able to do that or not, but Jesus already has died for you. Coworker: I hear people talk about Jesus dying, but what does that mean for me, actually? Witness: When Jesus died on the cross, He took the punishment that you deserve for the bad things you do. The punishment for sinning is death, but Jesus took that punishment so that you could have eternal life. You only have to accept His sacrifice—and live accordingly. Coworker: Wow! He did all that for me? How do I accept Him? Witness: Say it: “Jesus is Lord.” Believe that God raised Him from the dead and that He will save you. Your choices, actions, and reactions must match your belief. They express your love for Him.

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “Worship and Dedication” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • I choose to fellowship with other Christians who may not worship in the same style that I do, because worshipping Jesus is universal and, to some degree, worship styles vary. • I explain my church’s styles of worship.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I made as a result of studying “Worship and Dedication”? • I better understand Jesus’ sacrifice and, therefore, can better explain His actions and His overall plan. • I am more comfortable stepping into the environment of another style of worship.

CONVERSATION

Coworker: It’s hard to imagine that someone would sacrifice LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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BIBLE CLASS

October 24 Trumpet, Blood, Cloud, and Fire

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “Trumpet, Blood, Cloud, and Fire”? • To better understand the importance of remembering God’s deliverance. • To more clearly recognize how God guides and directs my life. • To be reminded to trust God even when I am immersed in difficulties.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “Trumpet, Blood, Cloud, and Fire”? • The children of Israel kept the Passover as a memorial of their deliverance from Egypt (Ex. 12:17). • I celebrate the Lord’s Supper, Communion, to remember the victory of Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 11:23-26). • Just as God guided the Israelites with a cloud by day and fire by night, when I am humble, God guides me in what is right and teaches me His way (Ps. 25:9). • The priests blew silver trumpets to signal the people. I look forward to hearing the last trumpet of God when the dead are raised and I am changed (Num. 10:9, 10; 1 Cor. 15:52). • I need other people’s encouragement, and I am supposed to help bear a fellow Christian’s heavy burdens (Gal. 6:2). • I don’t have to worry about anything as long as I pray about everything. God will give me peace to keep my heart and mind stress free (Phil. 4:6).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “Trumpet, Blood, Cloud, and Fire” evident today in the media? • Memorial for a permanent reminder. Plans are underway to establish a memorial for 19 Dallas County sheriff’s deputies who have died in the line of duty since 1871. Capt. Mark Howard said: “There needs to be something permanent to remind people that deputies aren’t just the red and blue lights in your rearview mirror, giving you a ticket all the time. They are your protectors. . . . They’ll give their lives to protect a person they don’t even know” (Blanca Cantu, “Monument Will Remember Fallen County Sheriff’s Deputies” http://dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/ news/localnews/stories/DN-emorial_16met.ART0.State .Edition2.4a64df3.html. March 16, 2009. Accessed that day).

finally putting up a monument. We need to remember police officers who have given their lives to serve us. Witness: You are right. We easily get stuck in the grind of daily living and forget our blessings. Commuter Seatmate: That is so true. Most of us need something to remind us. Witness: Do you have anything to remind you of someone who was important to you? Commuter Seatmate: Yes, I keep my mother’s photo in this locket. Who do you remember? Witness: I have pictures of friends and family and keepsakes from them, but there is one thing that I want to remember more than anything. Commuter Seatmate: What is that? Witness: I want to remember how Jesus died on the cross for my sins. His sacrifice gave me the opportunity to have eternal life. Commuter Seatmate: I probably need to take more time to remember that. Witness: Coming together with friends in a small group Bible study is a big help. I’d love to have you join us.

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “Trumpet, Blood, Cloud, and Fire” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • In my car I post Bible texts to read at stoplights. Then I meditate on them during the day. This reminds me of God—even when someone cuts me off in traffic. • When people get in my car, they notice the texts. Then I’m able to talk about God with them.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I made as a result of studying “Trumpet, Blood, Cloud, and Fire”? • I meditate on the cross each day to remember the sacrifice of Jesus and how He has changed my life. • This lesson has given me a peacefulness that people comment about.

CONVERSATION

Commuter Seatmate: I’m glad to see that the authorities are 62

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BIBLE CLASS

October 31 From Complaints to Apostasy

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

giant. This time, it’s Google News that’s appearing flaky— generating 503 Server Errors when users attempt to visit the site. . . . And so on. While we might be witnessing the failure of one of the most popular online services in the world, at least we’ve got Twitter on which to complain about it. And thank goodness for that, eh?” (Christopher Saunders, internetnews.com. May 15, 2009. Accessed May 18).

WHY should I study “From Complaints to Apostasy”? • This lesson reminds me not to grumble and complain when unfavorable situations arise. • To understand how complaining can lead to rebellion against God.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “From Complaints to Apostasy”? • The children of Israel complained about the provision of manna God had given and craved for another menu (Num. 11:4-6). • Those who are enemies of the cross of Christ make their stomach their god and bring God’s judgment on themselves (Phil. 3:18, 19). • If I habitually grumble and find fault with everything, I will bring God’s judgment upon myself (Jude 14-16). • My whining against the Lord can lead me to reject Him (Num. 11:20). • Because they had spoken death, God allowed the Israelites to die in the wilderness (Num. 11:28, 29). • Life and death is in the power of my tongue, so I choose to speak life (Prov. 18:21). • Jesus promises that if I believe in my heart I will have whatever I say (Mark 11:23, 24).

CONVERSATION

Friend: I didn’t know that worrying was so bad for one’s health. I find it hard not to worry in these crazy times we are living in. Witness: Does the worrying really help? Friend: Being realistic about what’s going on can prepare me for what’s going to happen. Witness: The funny thing about worry is that it’s not reality. We worry, complain, and get all worked up about something that may never happen. Friend: Tell me about it. I actually do that all the time. I don’t know how not to worry. Witness: I have something that really helps me. Friend: Oh? What’s your secret? Witness: I trust God. Friend: But does God really come through for people? Witness: He comes through for me all of the time. You would just have to get to know Him, then it is much easier to trust Him. I can teach you how this works for me.

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “From Complaints to Apostasy” evident in the media? • Attacking worry. Worrywarts can become melodramatic and waste precious time. As American writer Mark Twain said, “There has been much tragedy in my life. And at least half of it actually happened!” Worrywarts can’t live in the here and now. Chronic worry can evolve into panic attacks. The anxiety generates more worry, then more anxiety, then round and round you go. A twinge in your chest makes you believe you could soon have a heart attack; a news story about a home invasion 200 miles away keeps you up at night because you fear someone will break in when you’re asleep. It’s just your body reacting to those frightening thoughts you are thinking. Worrying is hard to give up (Marilyn Linton, “Attacking Worry” http://northbaynugget.ca/ ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1478485. March 15, 2009. Accessed March 16, 2009). • Complainers don’t miss a beat. “Some Web users this morning experienced a momentary outage that reminded many of yesterday’s widespread outages at the online LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “From Complaints to Apostasy” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • I make a habit of thanking God for everything that I like or find pleasant. When it’s a nice day outside, I thank Him. When I find a close parking space at Wal-Mart, I thank Him. • I share with other people how God answers my prayers, and tell them the small things that I’m thankful for.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I made as a result of studying “From Complaints to Apostasy”? • I make sure that I speak only positive and affirming words.

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BIBLE CLASS

November 7 Planning Ahead

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “Planning Ahead”? • This lesson helps me better understand that a delay in the fulfillment of God’s promise is not a denial of His love. • This lesson shows me it is important to God that I treat kindly foreigners and those different from me. • I must understand the difference between committing a sin of ignorance and a sin of defiance. • Studying this lesson reminds me of the necessity to constantly remember God’s commands and His deeds.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “Planning Ahead”? • The Israelites offered grain, oil, and wine to the Lord. I offer my body as a living sacrifice to the Him as my act of worship (Rom. 12:1). • God wants me to treat foreigners with equality, applying the same rules to them as I do to myself (Num. 15:15). • Regardless of my race or ethnicity, if I consecrate myself to the Lord, I will find joy in His house of prayer for all people (Isa. 56:6, 7). • God doesn’t want me to sin, but when I do, Jesus speaks to the Father in my defense (1 John 2:1). • If I am defiant and willfully sin against God, there is no sacrifice to cover that sin (Heb. 10:26). • I have hidden God’s words in my heart so that I will not sin against Him (Ps. 119:11). • When I walk in the joy of salvation, I can teach unbelievers the ways of God and help sinners to be converted (Ps. 51:12, 13).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “Planning Ahead” evident today in the media? • Illegal immigrants have few rights. An Associated Press computer analysis of every person being held on a recent Sunday night show that most did not have a criminal record and many were not about to leave the country—voluntarily or via deportation. An official Immigration and Customs Enforcement database obtained under the Freedom of Information Act showed a U.S. detainee population of exactly 32,000 on the evening of January 25. The data showed that 18,690 immigrants had no criminal conviction, not even for illegal entry or low-level crimes, e.g., trespassing. More than 400 of those with no criminal record had been incarcerated for at least a year. A dozen had been held for three years or more. One man from China had been locked up for more than five years (Michelle Roberts, 64

“Analysis Show How Illegal Immigrants Face Long Detention and Have Few Rights:” http://www.svherald.com/ articles/2009/03/16/news/doc49bdfaae8bc61307820812. txt. March 16, 2009. Accessed March 16, 2009).

CONVERSATION

Witness: There is always so much being said about immigrants. I honestly have a lot of mixed feeling about the issue. Witness: How do you sort those feelings? Friend: Sometimes it’s hard. Everyone has so much to say, but I don’t like seeing immigrants treated unfairly Witness: There are many sides to every issue. But regardless of our political views, there is one place where we are all equal. Friend: Where is that? Witness: In Jesus Christ. He doesn’t see race or ethnicity. To Him there are no foreigners or immigrants. He said that His house is a house of prayer for all people. Friend: So God doesn’t like one people group more than another. Witness: Not at all. We are all equal to Him. And when Christians see people through God’s eyes, we are able to love everyone and treat everyone fairly. Friend: I want to learn to treat people like that. Witness: Bible study and prayer are keys. I can help you— just an hour a week.

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “Planning Ahead” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • I take time to blog about my spiritual experiences and the things God has done for me so that others can read and respond. • I read my own past blog entries so I can praise God again.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I made as a result of studying “Planning Ahead”? • I repent of the sins I committed unknowingly. • I ask God to reveal hidden sins.

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BIBLE CLASS

November 14 Power Struggle

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “Power Struggle”? • To help me walk in total obedience to God, with respect for God’s chosen leadership. • To guard against feelings of envy. • To recognize Satan’s lies and deceptions that often lead me into rebellion.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “Power Struggle”? • All authority comes from God (Rom. 13:1). • When I defy authority, I am actually defying God and bringing judgment upon myself (Rom. 13:2). • I must pray for my leaders (1 Tim. 2:1, 2). • To God, the sin of rebellion is just as bad as witchcraft. Being stubborn is as bad as iniquity and idol worship (1 Sam. 15:23). • Respecting human authority pleases God and silences those who make false accusations against Christians (1 Peter 2:13-15). • Wherever there is envy, strife, and selfish ambition there will be disorder and every kind of evil (James 3:16).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “Power Struggle” evident today in the media? • Rebellion causes great atrocities. “The Lord’s Resistance Army, led by Joseph Kony, who claims to have spiritual powers, sought to overthrow Uganda's government. They demanded that the constitution be replaced with a version of the Ten Commandments. The LRA, which the U.S. State Department describes as ‘vicious and cult-like,’ is known for its unpredictable behavior. Local villagers and international human rights groups have accused the rebels of committing widespread abuses, including recruiting young boys and girls as soldiers and sex slaves” (Ben Brumfield, “Congo Groups: 400 Massacred on Christmas Day.” cnn.com/2008/WORLD/africa/12/30/congo.xmas.massacre. December 30, 2008. Accessed February 2, 2008).

CONVERSATION

Coworker: I am so sick of my new supervisor. I don’t know how he got chosen for that position anyway. I have more experience than he does and better sense. Witness: Well, there are times that supervisors must make hard decisions. LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Coworker: Hard decisions? It must not have been that hard to hire him. Witness: But, he’s hired now. I’m sure our job will be easier if we just let him lead. I know the transition is hard for him, too. I’ve been praying for him. Coworker: You pray for him? Well, somebody ought to. He needs it. Witness: We all need prayer. Since you’re having such a hard time with him, it wouldn’t hurt if you started praying for him too. Prayer changes things. This place really could change. Coworker: You always know how to defuse a situation and turn it around. I wanted to complain about the boss; you want me to pray for him. I don’t know how you do it! Witness: Not me—Jesus. He makes every situation better. I have read about the horrors that strife has caused in Uganda. We’re no different. So I’m going to pray for our supervisor rather than fightt against him. Friend: You are really serious about praying for him. I don’t know—I don’t pray that well. Witness: We can pray together. I don’t mind leading out.

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “Power Struggle” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • I realize that I must respect the authority that is legal and moral. I will make sure that I am working faithfully for my employer, because this pleases God. My Christian work ethic also is a witness to my coworkers. • I avoid all gossip and bashing of leaders, whether the U.S. president, my pastor, or my boss at work. When I hear people speak negatively about leaders, I encourage them to respect the position that leader has been given and to pray for the person. • I celebrate the accomplishments of coworkers and neighbors when God promotes them in areas of leadership. • Taking true delight in the success of others prevents me from becoming envious.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I made as a result of studying “Power Struggle”? • I am more supportive of my leaders at work and church. • I analyze each instance of what I used to call “righteous indignation,” so that I don’t slip into rebellion.

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BIBLE CLASS

November 21 Priest and Levites

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “Priest and Levites”? • To understand how seriously I should take sacred responsibilities and trust. • To understand more fully how each role in the body of Christ is interdependent. • To distinguish the functions of a Levite and a priest. • To recognize that gifts are given to people through God’s grace rather than acquired through personal merit.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “Priest and Levites”? • The priest attended to the needs of the sanctuary and the altar (Num. 18:5). • The priesthood was a gift from God, a privilege and not a right (verse 7). • The Levites attended to the needs of the tabernacle and to the needs of the priests (verses 2 and 3). • God made distinctions between the roles of the priest and Levites to ensure that His wrath would not come on the children of Israel again (verse 5). • People gave tithes and offering unto the Lord; God gave to the priests and Levites. So God was their inheritance (verses 8, 20, 23, and 24). • The blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of heifers made people ceremonially clean; but this only pointed to the blood of Jesus that would cleanse even the conscience from sin (Heb. 9:13, 14).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “Priest and Levites” evident today in the media? • Privilege or birthright. Former Pennsylvania senator, Vincent J. Fumo, appeared in federal court on corruption charges. He downplayed the crime against him by saying, “I did what I did.” Rather than arguing that Fumo crossed the line, his lawyer seemed to argue that the line was trivial. However, onlookers declared that he had an obligation to serve his constituents, to uphold the high standard of ethical conduct expected of public officials, and to respect the public trust he’d been given. His office was a privilege, not a birthright (www.philly.com. February 15, 2009. Accessed February 15, 2009).

talents there. Friend: What do you mean you use your talents and gifts? Witness: I use the things that I’m good at to help my church. Friend: Are you paid to sing? Witness: No, I’m not. There are other people behind the scenes supporting the preacher and singers. Friend: Are they paid? Witness: No. God gives every gift and talent for the benefit of His church. He can use church members’ gifts for His glory. It’s a fair exchange. He gave so much for us—free. Friend: So God is not like Senator Fumo? Witness: No. God’s people have a different value system. Friend: The commandments? Witness: Basically. Friend: Even the name sounds archaic—commandments. How do they work in the real world? Witness: The commandments or rules of God can keep people from behaviors that bring disgrace to themselves and their loved ones. The commandments establish boundaries to meet people’s needs—lines of safety—for honesty, kindness, faithfulness, etc. Friend: That is so understandable! How did you learn that? Witness: I am in a study group, and we help one another understand how God’s Word works in our daily lives. You’re welcome to come this weekend. Would Friday night, Saturday morning, or Saturday afternoon be better for you?

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “Priest and Levites” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • I use the gift of teaching directly or indirectly for God. • I realize that my function in the church may be different from another person’s, but all functions are necessary. • Every time I participate in financial giving—my tithes and offerings—I help advance God’s kingdom.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I begun/made as a result of studying “Priest and Levites”? • I express more often how thankful I am for the personal gifts God gives to me. • I take my sacred duties at church more seriously. • I am again studying the sanctuary service to understand Jesus’ sacrifice.

CONVERSATION

Friend: You seem to always be participating in something at your church. Witness: Well, I do like my church, and I use my gifts and 66

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BIBLE CLASS

November 28 The Sin of Moses and Aaron

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “The Sin of Moses and Aaron”? • To better understand the mercy and grace of God in contrast to the faithlessness, sin, and ingratitude of His people. • To internalize that even God’s most faithful servants must be careful that they do not fall. • To more fully understand that the work and mission of the church is greater than any one person’s effort. • To be encouraged to publicly thank God for all He does for me and my family.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “The Sin of Moses and Aaron”? • God told Moses and Aaron to speak to the rock and water would flow, but they hit the rock (Num. 20:7-11). • Moses hit the rock because of a lack of trust in God. This cost him and Aaron going into the Promised Land (verses 12, 24). • God accomplished many miracles for the children of Israel when they left the land of Egypt. Yet when trouble came, they forgot them (Ps. 78:11). • Although the people had sinned against Him and brought His judgment upon themselves, God enabled people to live when they looked at the bronze serpent (Num. 21:8, 9). • The same way God brought salvation to those who looked to the bronze serpent, God brings salvation to me when I look to Jesus Christ (John 3:14, 15).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “The Sin of Moses and Aaron” evident today in the media? • Heavy consequences when giants fall. Olympic hero Michael Phelps was suspended from competitive swimming for three months on Thursday—just hours after one of his sponsors announced they would not renew his contract. A photo had surfaced of him smoking from a bong (www.cnn.com. February 6, 2009. Accessed February 15, 2009). • Educators fall short of commitments. “The South African Council for Educators says it has completed its investigation into a slew of cases in which teachers were alleged to have had sexual relations with pupils at Cape Town schools. . . . The Council has warned that disgraced educators are finding loopholes in existing screening measures to reenter the profession. The body has threatened to name and shame such individuals, a move supported by some unions” (Regan Thaw, Eye Witness News; ewn.co. May 11, 2009. Accessed May 18). LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

CONVERSATION

Friend: It seems that every time I turn on the TV some celebrity, sports star, or government official has been exposed. Witness: Do you think it is hard to find a role model? Friend: Yes, it’s practically impossible! I don’t really know if I want my kids looking up to these people, because they all seem to make big mistakes. Witness: That speaks to the fact that our role models are human too. When you see these people fall, this might be a good opportunity to talk to your children about consequences and grace. Michael Phelps’ situation is a case in point. Friend: I understand the part about consequences, but what do I tell my kids about grace? Witness: We all mess up sometimes, but that doesn’t have to be the end of the story. God forgives and redeems. I experience this with God all the time—mostly without public humiliation. Michael Phelps can too. Friend: I want to know how I can experience God’s forgiveness —and this redeeming business. Witness: My Bible study group is very supportive. Join us!

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “The Sin of Moses and Aaron” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • When situations are hard, I still praise God for His past faithfulness and encourage others to do the same. • When I achieve greatness of any measure, I ask God to help me remain humble. • I apply Bible principles to daily events to make the Bible understandable to unchurched and nominal Christians.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I made as a result of studying “The Sin of Moses and Aaron”? • I remember God’s past blessings and celebrate the victories in my life, e.g., mentoring others, financially supporting the needy. • I focus on God’s mission rather than on a person, because God’s mission continues even when a leader or support is physically gone or no longer honorable.

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BIBLE CLASS

December 5 The “Madness” of a Prophet

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “The ‘Madness’ of a Prophet”? • To better understand the sins of covetousness and greed. • To see how sins in religious practice lead to destruction. • To understand that God may occasionally choose to use the gifts of those who are not totally submitted to Him.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “The ‘Madness’ of a Prophet”? • Balaam entertained men who he knew wanted him to go against God’s will. I must not counsel with sinners (Num. 22:12; Ps. 1:1). • I cannot serve God and money. Only one can have my total allegiance (Matt. 6:24). • When God sees me going the wrong way, He graciously tries to turn me in the right direction (Num. 22:32-35; 2 Peter 2:9). • Balaam prayed that he would die “the death of the righteous,” because the death of a righteous person is precious to God (Num. 23:10; Ps. 116:15). • The root of all evil is loving money. Many people have walked away from the faith because of money (1 Tim. 6:10). • There is nothing that happens to an animal that God doesn’t know (Num. 22:32, 33; Matt. 6:26).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “The ‘Madness’ of a Prophet” evident today in the media? • Corruption robs the nation of glory. Sam Eyoboka says that corruption is robbing the nation of the glory, the comfort, and the joy that should belong to the nation. So, corruption is definitely a monster, and people who are involved in corruption must realize that they may not live to spend the money gained (Sam Eyoboka, www.AllAfrica.com. February 15, 2009. Accessed February 16, 2009).

bought or sold. They walk in integrity. Friend: Yes, and it is really refreshing when you meet them. I want to be that kind person. Witness: We both can be. The process starts by trusting God, getting to know His character. The Bible gives an accurate picture of God, so I study His Word every day. Friend: I just can’t seem to get started. Witness: I have a daily Bible study guide. (Pulls an Adult Bible Study Guide from his briefcase.) Let’s look through this together. If you’ve interested, I can help you get on the mailing list. And I’d love to have you join my Bible study group.

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “The ‘Madness’ of a Prophet” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • I use my gift of organization to help others improve their lives. • I express thankfulness and contentment so that covetousness cannot cloud my judgment.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I begun/made as a result of studying “The ‘Madness’ of a Prophet”? • I refuse to let greed keep me from doing what is right, e.g., I decline opportunities to do secular work for pay on God’s holy Sabbath. • I have recommitted to developing habits that emphasize integrity in the small things, so that I don’t accept the values of secular young adults.

CONVERSATION

Friend: Do you ever watch those reality TV shows in which people will do just about anything for money? How do you feel about them? Witness: Sam Eyoboka has a valid point. Many thieves don’t live to spend their money. Friend: I’ve heard people say that before, but I had never realized how true it is. Witness: But there are a few people out there who can’t be 68

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December 12 Immorality on the Border

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “Immorality on the Border”? • To better understand how God’s people can be led into immorality and the consequences. • To understand the depths of depravity to which indulgence in impure thoughts can eventually lead. • To better grasp the effect that open sin can have on an entire community.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “Immorality on the Border”? • The immorality of the men of Israel with foreign women led to full idolatry (Num. 25:1-3). • The Bible commands me to run away from sexual immorality. Fornication is sin against one’s own body (1 Cor. 6:18). • Balaam couldn’t curse Israel because there was no iniquity or wickedness in the camp. When I put my trust in God, living a pure life, nothing evil happens to me that I cannot endure (Num. 23:20; Ps. 91:9, 10). • When Israel committed sexual immorality, God’s wrath kindled against them, and tens of thousands were killed (Num. 25:3-5; 1 Cor. 10:8). • Because the prophet Balaam had conspired against Israel, he was killed with their enemies (Num. 31:8). • I must not automatically disassociate myself with unbelievers who live sinful lives, but I should not keep company with those who call themselves Christians but continue in open sin (1 Cor. 5:10, 11).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “Immorality on the Border” evident today in the media? • Watching sex on TV changes sexual attitudes. “Bryant and Rockwell (1994) found that young adolescents exposed to 15 hours of sexual television content that “focused on pre-, extra-, and nonmarital sexual relations” subsequently judged such situations as less morally wrong than adolescents exposed to content depicting intercourse between married individuals and those exposed to shows that did not depict sexual relationships” (Keren Eyal, Dale Kunkel, entrepreneur.com/tradejournals. Journal of Broadcasting and Electronic Media, June 2008. Accessed February 16, 2009).

why not at home on television. That can’t be healthy for them. Witness: I agree with you. Not only is it unhealthy for children to watch any and everything, but it’s not good for adults either. You could tell your friend about the Eyal and Kunkel report. Fifty years go married couples didn’t sleep in the same bed. Now TV displays adultery, same-sex, and teen sexual relationships. The public seems to have become numb to the things that were once prohibited. That’s the way sin works. Friend: You’re right. What should parents do about it? Witness: Study the Bible to learn what God says about relationships. Society has changed, but He hasn’t. Friend: How do I study the Bible? Witness: Study with me and my friends. Many of us are parents. I can introduce you at one of our small study groups on Saturday morning or on Friday night. What’s your preference?

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “Immorality on the Border” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • I find that some things I once thought were acceptable now disturb my spirit. • I stick to my decision not to watch certain TV shows, and this often opens the door to lively discussions. • Young people struggle with peer pressure, and adults struggle with loneliness. I openly talk with other young adults as well as with older people about the temptation to compromise on moral issues and help them explore alternatives.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I made as a result of studying “Immorality on the Border”? • My thought life is more Christlike. • I’m excited about the possibility having the mind of Christ.

CONVERSATION

Friend: My friend thinks her kids will see sex eventually, so, LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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BIBLE CLASS

December 19 Admonitions

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “The Second Generation: Admonitions”? • To better understand God’s divine order in passing responsibilities from one generation to another. • To more clearly see the importance of leaders in ministry choosing a successor. • To understand the importance of keeping vows. • To grasp how important fairness is to God.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “The Second Generation: Admonitions”? • God told Moses to conduct a second census so that the land could be divided fairly among the tribes according to size/population (Num. 26:52-56). • Although it was not customary for women to receive an inheritance, God gave the daughters of Zelophehad their father’s inheritance, and this became the standard throughout Israel (Num. 27:6-8). • A person who makes a vow must understand the importance of following through (Num. 30:1, 2). • Moses asked God to find a successor so that the people would not be like sheep without a shepherd (Num. 27:1517). • God chose Joshua as a successor and had Moses immediately inaugurate him (Num. 27:18-20). • The events and tragic judgments that were given to the children of Israel were written for my example and admonition (1 Cor. 10:11). • Jesus is a mighty Savior (Zeph. 3:16, 17).

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “The Second Generation: Admonitions” evident today in the media? • Dialogue closes generation gap. Lord Nickens is 96. Sukhi Gulati is 14. Priscilla Maria Gutierrez is 17. Under any other circumstances their ages, cultural backgrounds, and nearly everything else would have created distance among them. However, as soon as they started conversing, onlookers knew that their differences had brought them together. The three participated in an intergenerational dialogue Sunday, speaking about peace and mutual understanding (Adam Behsudi, fredericknewspost.com. February 10, 2009. Accessed February 16).

CONVERSATION

Friend: I’m not sure that they have any direction. Witness: They will finish the work that our generation started. So we must step up to the plate to help them. Friend: I’m not sure that is comforting. Witness: Well, each generation is in God’s hands. Adam Behsudi’s report on intergenerational support gives me hope. Friend: Yes. Despite their age differences, they put together an interesting report. Witness: As people pray for this generation, God is able to take up the slack in the places where we are lacking. In fact, God promises to save our children. Friend: I’m not comfortable communicating with God—about anything. Witness: I can help you get to know Him. Let’s pray together each workday. When and where would you suggest? Friend: Here. Lunchtime. Now.

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “The Second Generation: Admonitions” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • I take time to think about the lessons that I can learn from Scripture and even history. The triumphs and defeats of people often serve as lessons for me. • I talk to people who do not know Bible stories but who know American history. So I often apply Bible principles to American history. For example, CNN reported that “superheroes” rise in tough times: More than 70 years ago, the very first superheroes debuted in the dire times of the Great Depression and the early years of World War II. Secular society may escape into the fantasy of comic book superheroes such as Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. However, I show how Jesus is the only hero that we need.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I begun/made as a result of studying “The Second Generation: Admonitions”? • I take making agreements more seriously, including contracts that I sign—apartments, credit cards, etc. • I make time to follow the news that would be of most interest to the people with whom I want to talk about Sabbath School lesson principles. For example, each profession produces a journal and has a Web site that I can access to learn about the history, heroes, challenges, and news of interest.

Friend: I just don’t know about this new generation of young people. Witness: What do you mean? 70

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BIBLE CLASS

December 26 Cities of Refuge

CLAIM

By Alicia Jones

RELEVANT

WHY should I study “Cities of Refuge”? • To better understand the importance of remembering the miracles of God in delivering the children of Israel from Egypt. • To see how God provided for the Levites, the only tribe without an earthly inheritance. • To understand that God’s justice issues from fairness rather than vengeance. • To understand how Jesus Christ is my place of refuge where I can find grace.

CREDIBLE

WHAT are the Bible facts in “Cities of Refuge”? • The Lord directed the entire journey of Israel from Egypt to the Promised Land (Num. 33:2). • God commanded that the Levites be given cities in Israel where they would dwell (Num. 35:1, 2). • Six of the 48 cities given to the Levites were cities of refuge for people awaiting judgment from the congregation after accidentally killing someone (Num. 35:11-13, 20, 21). • God forbids taking bribes of money from those who kill, whether or not the crime was premeditated (verses 31-34). • Repentant sinners have hope (Ps. 91:2; Heb. 6:18-20).

DOABLE

HOW do I use and share the principles of “Cities of Refuge” for my own spiritual growth and share them with other people? • I trust that God provides for me, His child, in the same way God provided for the Levites. So when I have a need, I go to God and remind Him of His past works and His promises to provide. • When I see people fretting over their financial situation, I encourage them to trust God and His provision for them. I share my experiences of trusting God and the lessons I have learned, whether or not my prayers were answered just as I had wanted.

TIMELY

HOW are the principles of “Cities of Refuge” evident today in the media? • Refugee camps now house those who fear violence. “Fear still stalks the 5,000 people in refugee camps in Orissa’s Kandhamal district who had taken shelter there after antiChristian violence drove them out of their homes, says a priest, pointing out that paramilitary forces were being withdrawn from the area. ‘Most of the people hesitate to move back to their homes in the villages as the threat still prevails there. Moreover, they have nothing left, as everything was destroyed in the riots,’ said Joseph Kalathil, vicar general of the Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Arch-Diocese” (T. G. Biju, calcuttanews.net. February 12, 2009. Accessed February 16).

forgives us. God becomes our refuge—we can run to Him in time of need. Although that may sound too good to be true, full forgiveness is possible through Jesus Christ. He already paid the penalty, so people can find refuge in Him—but they must repent. Friend: That does sound wonderful. How do I learn more? Witness I’ll be glad to help you get into a small Bible study group. One meets on Saturday morning and one meets on Saturday afternoon. I can accompany you to either session and introduce you.

MEASURABLE

WHAT changes in thinking, action, or reaction have I begun/made as a result of studying “Cities of Refuge”? • I meditate on the different ways Christ has kept me safe. • I speak up! I find creative ways to share God’s goodness to me in the appropriate times and venues that He arranges for me. • The witnessing appointments that God arranges are incredible—both the people and the places. So I’ve learned to give Him my will each morning by asking the Holy Spirit to take control of my time and me.

CONVERSATION

Friend: I don’t really understand God. I hear some people say that He is nice and loving, but at other times He seems mean—detached. Refugees are one example. How can God forgive their abusers? Witness When we repent—no matter what we’ve done—God LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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Women’s Ministries

“Big Stuff” Worship By Alex Bryan and Faith Crumbly

PROGRAM AIM To encourage members to worship with their whole heart, holding nothing back in any dimension of their life. To bring participants into the program with expressive speakers and, possibly, with dramatization with period clothing.

SCRIPTURE Luke 7:36-50

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER Many adults—even senior citizen sisters-in-Christ—get goosebumps when they read scriptural accounts about the boldness of the mighty men and women of valor in the Bible. Avid readers tend to be drawn to stories in many formats that tell of great adventure, romantic risk, political intrigue, physical danger, and radical transformation. There is something about human beings that causes them to want to give wildly, dare boldly, and live dangerously. Many people are tired of living a monotone life. God invites us into a relationship with Himself that is anything but routine. He calls us to abandon safety in pursuit of total adoration of Him. But what does it mean to live with total dedication to God, to invest (risk!) our time and treasures in His purposes?

PROGRAM Facilitator: Let’s read Luke 7:36-50 together. This woman is totally in love with Jesus. She worships Him despite the ridicule of others, enormous personal expense, and even the risk that Jesus will disapprove of her irrational act. This story provides perhaps the best understanding of how worship should play out in our lives. Speaker 1: The woman is motivated to give all she has, because she recognizes her sinfulness, her need for Christ. Speaker 2: The woman appreciates just how much Jesus loves her and wants her to join Him in a saving relationship. This woman’s response is “all out.” Speaker 1: This is not controlled giving. She empties herself, her dignity, her bank account, her life—her all to Jesus. Speaker 2: The exuberance of the woman in our scripture leads others to question, gives Jesus a chance to explain 72

what just happened, and motivates you and me to follow in the footsteps of this woman. Facilitator (ask the following questions—project on-screen one at a time—and invite response from the audience): • What causes a person to pledge life, fortune, and sacred honor for someone or something? • What role does relationship play in how human beings give, serve, love, and worship? • What does “all out,” “big stuff” worship look like—what are the components of big stuff worship for God? (List the audience’s suggestions.) Speaker 1: So what causes Christians to give halfheartedly to God? How does one (project the following on-screen all at the same time): • Live safely? • Pray cautiously? • Worship tepidly? • Give conservatively? (List the audience’s insights.) Speaker 2: Is our church up to something so big and great for God that everyone takes notice? Will you do something scary for God? (Project the following options on-screen.) • Give an offering like you’ve never given before. • Pray in a way that scares you to death. Elder Samuel Meyers, former pastor of the Shiloh church in Chicago, used to urge his congregation, “Pray dangerously.” • Make a commitment that will make your palms sweat and your knees knock. Commit to whom: – your Sabbath School class? – your church? – your pastor? – your family? – your enemies? As an atheist expressed it, “Who could you hate so much that you would not tell them about Jesus?” Think about making a big commitment to Christ—out of response to the affection you feel from your Savior. If you don’t personally know Him, ask Him to reveal the extent of His love for you. (Direct the readers’ theatre presentation of Romans 8:31-39 on-screen or in a handout. Color code the reader designations.)

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28 Fundamental Beliefs

No. 26: Death and Resurrection By Carlos Camarena

PROGRAM AIM The dead will rise—fact or myth? Can someone rise from the dead? What if someone was dead for more than 4,000 years? Is this believable? Well, it’s a matter of life and death; eternal life or death, that is. Resources • The Jesus Mysteries: Was the “Original Jesus” a Pagan God? by Timothy Freke and Peter Gandy (New York: Harmony Books, 2000). • See Afterlife in Roman Paganism (New York: Yale University Press, 1922; reprinted by Dover Publications, New York, 1959).

SCRIPTURE 1 Corinthians 15:13, 14

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER “What happens to people after they die?” Some of the answers received in a survey at our local mall: “Nothing.” “It’s over.” “You’re done.” But also heard were: “You go to heaven.” “You go to be with the Lord.” “You enter into the presence of the Lord.” “Your soul goes to this place called heaven.” What say you?

PROGRAM

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2B. Counterargument: Death as sleep followed by a glorious resurrection is central in the theology of the New Testament, especially in Paul’s and John’s writings (1 Thess. 4:13-17; John 11:11).

However, one pocket of “mainline” Christianity who mostly hold to European Christian scholarship has begun to argue against the intermediate state in which the soul is separated “to enter into the presence of the Lord” while a body lies in the ground until the resurrection. N. T. Wright, bishop of Durham (Church of England), is leading the charge to the consternation of most of the world’s Christianity. Wright and millions of Adventist and non-Adventist Bible believers around the world propose that there will be a grand time when the dead who sleep until the coming of the Lord will hear the voice of God and come out of their graves (1 Thess. 4:16).

Carlos Camerena is senior pastor at the Paradise Valley Spanish church in San Diego, California. His wife, Elina, serves as his associate. The Camerenas are the first Hispanic husband-wife team in full-time pastoral ministry in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

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A.M. BUZZ

Death and resurrection are two core events on which Christianity stands. According to the New Testament, Jesus was crucified, died, placed in a tomb, and resurrected three days later (Acts 2:31; 4:33). But not only that, a bodily resurrection is also promised to those who place their trust in Jesus (see Matt. 22:30; Luke 14:11; Acts 4:2; 23:6; 1 Cor. 15:21, 42; Heb. 6:2). 1A. Argument: Mythologists argue that the concept of death and resurrection and all of those symbols in the Christian tradition belong to a myth system along with all the myths of other world religions. This line of reasoning was first introduced by Franz Cumont early in the twentieth century and has been the assumed position in secular (and in some not so secular) academic circles. Question: Is it possible to be Christian and at the same

time accept the doctrine of the death and resurrection as a myth? There are pockets of Christianity that consider myth and the historicity of the resurrection of Jesus as being unrelated. These Christians attest that even a strictly historical event in no way precludes its mythology status. They point to C. S. Lewis who, after his conversion to Christianity, believed that the resurrection of Christ belonged in the category of myth but with the added property of having actually happened. Yet another pocket of Christianity views Jesus as one of a group of deities associated with the myth sequence of lifedeath-resurrection-life events. Understanding of the Resurrection as a form of the “risen god” myth is, therefore, for these Christians strictly independent of acceptance or rejection of the historicity of the event. 1B. Counterargument: The mythological argument of the death and resurrection of Jesus can be countered only on the basis of its historicity. The New Testament records several resurrection appearances of Jesus: Mark 16:12, 14, 19; John 20:118; 21:1, 14; 1 Corinthians 15:13, 14. There are no witnesses in mythical deities or attempted verification. 2A. Argument: Those who die immediately go into the presence of the Lord, or they go to heaven (Phil. 1:23, 24; 2 Cor. 5:8; Heb. 12:23).

Programs

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28 Fundamental Beliefs

No. 27: Millennium and the End of Sin By Amy McKnight

PROGRAM AIM To help participants understand the part that the saved, the saints, will play during the millennium.

SCRIPTURE 1 Corinthians 6:2, 3

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER There is a list of names of people who are going to be executed. There is a possibility that a friend with whom you have lost touch is on the list. What is the first thing that you would want to know? (Accept answers.)

PROGRAM When we get to heaven we won’t find some people whom we thought would be there. We will want to know why they were lost. God knew that this would happen, so He has set aside 1,000 years for the saints to judge the world. During that time all our questions will be answered. (Divide participants into groups and pass out scenarios and questions.) It is 200 years into the millennium. You remember a friend you went to school with in middle school. You look all over heaven, but she isn’t there. You ask an angel, and he tells you that she isn’t there. You are horrified. She seemed like a very nice girl. You ask to see her record. Here is a summary of what you read: Jasmine grew up in a Christian home. Her parents sent her to a Christian academy. During her time at college she began to question whether or not Christianity was really worth it. She felt that the church was full of hypocrites. After college Jasmine moved to another state and took a job as a legal assistant. She met and married Kevin, a young lawyer in the firm. He had no interest in religion, so they attended church only when she visited her parents. She and Kevin were happy. They participated in the community. They gave to charity. They were upstanding citizens but not religious people. Her mother tried to talk to her about Christ and her need for Him. She listened politely but replied that she and Kevin lived good enough lives. She continued in 74

her lifestyle. On the way home one Friday night from a community charity fund-raising event, she was hit by a drunk driver and died instantly. 1. Why would or wouldn’t you allow her into heaven? 2. How much would you want to know about the specifics of her actual sins? Would you want to read her whole record or would you be happy with a summary? 3. Do you think that accepting Jesus and seeking a relationship with Him is an important prerequisite for admittance into heaven? You will have the opportunity to see why the people you knew, loved, or respected didn’t make it to heaven. Do you think that you would want to see their record for yourself? How much would you have to read or know before deciding that God was fair in not letting them in? The thought of people not being saved is a solemn thought. There is no reason for anyone that we know or love to be lost. God tells us through the prophet Ezekiel: “Tell them, ‘As sure as I am the living God, I take no pleasure from the death of the wicked. I want the wicked to change their ways and live. Turn your life around! Reverse your evil ways! Why die, Israel?’” (Eze. 33:11, The Message). After the devil and the wicked are finally destroyed: “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away” (Rev. 21:4, KJV).

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Amy McKnight works with her husband, Conrad, publishing director for the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference.

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28 Fundamental Beliefs

No. 28: The New Earth By Amy McKnight

PROGRAM AIM To help participants imagine the reality of heaven and why it would be a shame to miss out.

SCRIPTURE 1 Corinthians 2:9

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER (Pass out index cards and pens as people come in. Give participants two minutes to write down their favorite outdoor activity on one side of the card and their favorite Bible character on the other. Have some volunteers use their answers to complete the following sentence): “In the earth made new I’m going to (activity) with (Bible character).” Example: “On the earth made new I’m going to go for a walk with King David.”

PROGRAM Most of us don’t spend very much time thinking about heaven, much less the earth made new. So these places seem almost like a fairy tale or a place seen in a book or magazine or on TV but never visited. However, heaven is as real as this city or town where we worship. One day relatively soon this earth will be recreated into the place it was meant to be. What would you like to do in the new earth? What would you like to see there? Let’s get into small groups and turn our thoughts forward to a time when the most beautiful place on earth will look like a vacant lot compared to the glories of the new earth.

highest ambitions realized. And still there will appear new heights to surmount, new wonders to admire, new truths to comprehend, fresh objects of study to call forth the powers of body and mind and soul” (ibid.). • “‘His [God’s] servants shall serve him’ (Rev. 22:3). The life on earth is the beginning of the life in heaven; education on earth is an initiation into the principles of heaven; the lifework here is a training for the lifework there. What we now are, in character and holy service, is the sure foreshadowing of what we shall be” (God’s Amazing Grace, p. 362). What fun to think about heaven and the new earth! The beauty of it is that our wildest, happiest imaginations don’t even come close to the reality of the new earth. Thinking about our future home can remind us that there is absolutely nothing on this earth that is worth missing out on in the new earth. Discussion Questions: 1. Who are some people you would like to get to know first during eternity? 2. What are two sights you would like to see? 3. Are there any fruit that you hope will be on the tree of life in some variety? 4. On your visits to the unfallen worlds, what are some questions you would like to ask the inhabitants? 5. Which activity do you think you will enjoy most? a. Walking on the sea of glass b. Playing with wolves, lions, and grizzly bears c. Using your wings to fly to other planets 6. What are some things that are native to this earth that you would be happy to forget about? 7. What is the first song that you would like to sing with your new voice in multipart harmony? 8. If you could build your home near anyone past or present, who is that person?

Word Pictures of the New Earth (Read together Isaiah 65:21, 22.) • “In the earth made new, the redeemed will engage in the occupations and pleasures that brought happiness to Adam and Eve in the beginning. The Eden life will be lived” (God’s Amazing Grace, p. 362). [In the earth made new] “every power will be developed, every capability increased. The grandest enterprises will be carried forward, the loftiest aspirations will be reached, the LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

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Follow the Bible

Old Truth; New Eyes By Mark A. Finley

PROGRAM AIM To see Jesus on every page of Scripture.

SCRIPTURE John 5:37-39

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER One of the reasons God established His church is for each church member to develop spiritual friendships. We do not live in isolation. We are social beings designed by God to fellowship with one another. Each of us has our own distinct personality, our own uniqueness. The more we get to know one another the closer our relationships become. Is there something about you that you would like others to know that is not immediately apparent: a hobby or pastime such as painting, quilting, music, biking, swimming, crossword puzzles, Scrabble? Maybe you love Chinese or Indian food? Please turn to the person next to you and take just two minutes to share something that person does not know about you. (After two or three minutes, get the group’s attention.)

PROGRAM (You need a PowerPoint projector with slides or handouts bearing the bulleted items and photos of Bible scenes, two presenters—preferably members who give Bible studies.) Speaker 1: As we develop a relationship with Jesus, there is something vitally important that He wants us to know about His Word. All Scripture and each portion of Scripture testify of Him. The purpose of Bible study is not to prove others wrong but to learn more about Jesus. In today’s program we will discover that the purpose of all Bible study is to see Jesus with new eyes. The key to understanding. There is something more important to Jesus than anything else. The Pharisees studied the Old Testament for hours each day and still missed this point. As a result they ended up condemning Jesus to death. Here is the key to understanding the Bible: Every book of the Bible reveals fresh insights about Jesus. Let’s read together John 5:39. (Read.) Jesus’ point to the Jewish leaders—and us—is simply that 76

all Scripture is a revelation of His character of love. Here is a hidden truth about the Bible that Jesus wants you to know. If the Bible is not merely a collection of stories, not just a set of rigid rules and debatable doctrines, how would you describe the Bible? (Accept responses.) Speaker 2: I like to define the Bible as a love story. It’s all about Jesus. He is the main theme. In the Old Testament we see Jesus in the shadows of the sanctuary. Project the following words, and ask participants to tell what each item represents: • The slain lamb (Jesus frees us from the guilt and condemnation of sin.) • The priest (Jesus lives and ministers in the sanctuary empowering us to live a godly life.) • Golden candlestick (Jesus, the light of the world) • Bread on the table of showbread in the holy place (Jesus, giver of life’s provisions and the one who fully meets all of our needs) • The incense ascending to the Father’s throne (Jesus’ life and sacrifice) Throughout the Old Testament we see Jesus revealed in types and symbols. As you read the Bible, look for Jesus. Concentrate on each passage of Scripture and ask, “What does this teach me about Jesus? What revelation of His character is this text sharing?” Speaker 1: In the New Testament Jesus’ love blazes across its pages like the noonday sun. Every miracle reveals His compassion and concern. What experiences speak to you most clearly of Jesus’ love—just give the experience a headline title, so that we can get many answers (Accept brief answers: Jesus opens the eyes of the blind. Jesus unstops the ears of the deaf. Jesus gives the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus’ blood stains the cobblestone streets of Jerusalem. The tomb of Jesus is empty. Mary sees the risen Savior. Jesus is alive, etc.) Speaker 2: There is something Jesus wants you to know more than anything else about His Word and it’s simply this: The Word is the place to meet Him. Will you bow your heads and pray this simple prayer with me? “Dear Jesus, open our eyes so we can meet You in Your Word and discover anew the majesty of Your character and the greatness of Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” Mark A. Finley is a vice president for the General Conference.

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Follow the Bible

Revitalizing Your Bible Study By Mark A. Finley

PROGRAM AIM To discover some practical steps to finding Jesus in every passage of Scripture.

SCRIPTURE Hebrews 12:2

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER There is an African proverb that goes something like this: “The chicken passed by, but we did not see him because of his feathers.” In other words, all we saw was the plumage, but the real chicken was underneath all of those feathers. The point of the proverb is that often we pass by one another on the road of life but really don’t see one another. Likewise, is it possible to study the Bible and fail to see the true meaning and purpose of the message? Can we become so intent on proving a point that we miss Jesus in it all?

PROGRAM (Need PowerPoint projector and screen or handouts. Find two earliteens or youth to make this presentation.) Speaker 1: “Vim” is an old English word that is hardly used anymore. Occasionally we hear someone say something like this: “That person really has some vim and vigor.” “Vim” means vitality or life. How would you like to put some real vim into your Bible study? How would you like your Bible study to be the most exciting time of your day? Follow the VIM method. (Project or distribute handouts bearing the following): • V—Visualization • I—Identification • M—Meditation Let’s spend a few moments considering these three important aspects of Bible study. Visualization. As you read the stories of the Bible, attempt to picture each scene in the narrative. Let’s try this together: • Close your eyes. • Visualize the man shaking from head to toe with the palsy. • Can you see Jesus approaching? • Can you see the variety in the crowd—old and young women, LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

slim and chubby children, possibly a dog or camel? • Picture the crowded marketplace in Jerusalem. Can you hear the vendors? Next scenes. (Allow sufficient time for people to zero in on each scene): • Look through Jesus’ eyes at the hungry multitude seated on the grassy hillside of Galilee. • Gaze at the cross, and watch the jagged nails driven through the hands of our Savior. Behold the agony in His eyes, and watch as warm blood runs down His face. So instead of rushing through a passage of Scripture, pause and watch. Visualize the scene. Imagine that you are there. Ask yourself, What do I see? What is happening here? Speaker 2: Identification. After you have visualized the scene, ask yourself: How would I feel if I were actually there? What if this were happening to me? Let’s practice. Ask yourself what this person is thinking or experiencing in this given situation? Weep as they weep. Rejoice as they rejoice. Let yourself identify with their failures as well as their triumphs. (Give enough time to focus on each scene.) • Try to imagine you were blind from birth, and Christ healed you. How would you feel? What if you were: • the woman caught in adultery? • the thief on the cross? • the Roman centurion crucifying Christ? • Joseph being sold into slavery by his own brothers? • Daniel unjustly condemned and thrown into the lions’ den? • Moses standing before the Red Sea as it parted? Speaker 3: Meditation. After visualizing the scene and identifying with the events in the biblical story, the next step is to meditate on what it means for you today. Take a few verses at a time. Ask yourself these questions regarding the passage of Scripture you are studying: • What is God saying to me in this portion of Scripture? • What practical application do I find for my own spiritual life? • What does this passage teach me about Jesus? • What lessons can I learn for my life today? As we allow God to speak to us through the pages of Scripture, the Holy Spirit will reveal Jesus’ love in powerful new ways. This will put vim into your Bible study. God will richly reward you, and you will be abundantly blessed.

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Life’s Issues

Sabbath School Class Therapy By Jennifer Jill Schwirzer

PROGRAM AIM To provide spiritual and practical instruction for the purpose of developing social confidence.

SCRIPTURE 1 Corinthians 16:13, 14

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER Visual association is an effective way of remembering names. Go around the circle sharing names. Each class member privately associates the name with something visual. For instance, a tall, fair-haired young man named Brad might faintly resemble Brad Pitt or a Viking. After everyone has shared their names, have each person write the names from memory to find how well they score.

PROGRAM Shyness is social anxiety, a cruel juxtaposition of forces. Humans are social creatures, hard-wired for networking, but shy people have an aversion to the very thing they’re wired for. This aversion can range from mild to extreme. Social phobia is the most common anxiety disorder, and extreme social fear can lead to avoidant or paranoid personality disorder. How do we keep tendencies toward shyness from developing into full-blown disorders? Sabbath School: therapeutic, social-skill-building environments. Professionals agree that exposure to the feared stimulus is a must, because avoidance actually increases fear. But exposure must be done correctly, lest it backfire and reinforce the individual’s fears. This is why small groups such as Sabbath School classes, if conducted properly, can help. • Sabbath School is about learning God’s love. Just after admonishing Christians to “be men of courage and be strong,” Paul said, “Do everything in love” (1 Cor. 16:13, 14). Interesting. This truth instills a different kind of social confidence than the worlds me-centered bravado has to offer. This is about being loved and being a conduit of that love to others. This sure takes the pressure off! • With that foundation in place, let’s look at some practical ways to get those social-confidence juices flowing. Take it from our friend social S.A.L.: 78

Smile: A bright countenance enhances both interpersonal and intrapersonal dynamics. Interpersonal because people are drawn to a smiling person. Intrapersonal because smiling works reflexively to relax the mind and the emotions. Ask: Thoughtful questions are a great way to enter a conversation without having to sound informed. Ask people’s names as well, and use the icebreaker technique to remember them. This will give you an air of control as you are able to address people by name long after they have forgotten yours! Listen: People love to talk about themselves. A listener who asks appropriate questions and gives good eye contact and intelligent feedback will be very well-liked. One good listening technique is called “mirroring,” because one reflects back to the person, in their own words, what they heard them say. Sabbath School is one of the best places to facilitate this process. There, people who are “wound too tight” can loosen up and let go. • Calm a troubled soul. Lead the person to reason through the problem: (1) Acknowledge that they fear; (2) Identify what they fear; (3) Reason through their fear; (4) Replace fear with facts. Here’s how this looks: Sarah: Angela, how are you feeling? Angela: I’m scared. Sarah: You’re scared of what? Angela: Of saying something stupid. Everyone will laugh, and my cheeks will burn. Sarah: So you think you’ll be embarrassed. That is scary. But Angela, do you worship with a group of insensitive Christians or are they very affirming and caring? Angela: You’re right! My fears are running away with me. They’re very nice people. Sarah: Do you think some of them also might be shy? Angela: There’s a good chance of that. Sarah: What do you think is likely to happen at this small group? Angela: Well, the people will probably be very honest. I’ll see that I’m not the only one who struggles with fear. I may even relax—eventually.

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Jennifer Jill Schwirzer lives in Philadelphia where she has a counseling practice and operates her speaking/music ministry. You can get better acquainted with her at www.jenniferjill.org.

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Life’s Issues

Are Your Springs Sprung? By Jennifer Jill Schwirzer

PROGRAM AIM To help overreactive people learn the smooth, easy way of doing things.

SCRIPTURE Joshua 22:10-32

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER Read one proverb to each student and have them put the proverb in their own words. Or ask volunteers to interpret the proverb: • “You’ve got to do your own growing, no matter how tall your grandfather was” (Irish proverb). • “A fall into a ditch makes you wiser” (Chinese proverb). • “A good example is like a bell that calls many to church” (Danish proverb). • “Give the tools to him who has the ability to handle them” (French proverb). • “Do not use a hatchet to remove a fly from your friend’s forehead” (Chinese proverb). • “Make not the sauce till you have caught the fish” (English proverb). • “After the game, the king and pawn go into the same box” (Italian proverb). • “After the ship has sunk, everyone knows how she might have been saved” (Italian proverb). • “As the music is, so are the people of the country” (Turkish proverb). • “Evil enters like a needle and spreads like an oak tree” (Ethiopian proverb). • “Love me when I least deserve it, because that’s when I really need it” (Swedish proverb). • “A good resolution is like an old horse which is often saddled but rarely ridden” (Mexican proverb).

PROGRAM Wisdom does not come easily to most of us. Wisdom requires patience. The logical, reasoning part of the brain works more slowly than the passionate “animal” part of the brain. • Fantasy: Television programmers know this, and so lace LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

their programming with scenes that provoke a quick reaction. For instance, cop shows grab our attention through violence, activating our fight-and-flight response with shootouts and car chases. • Reality: Also, sometimes real-life situations activate our survival instincts, and we rapidly react to a perceived threat rather than calmly, coolly considering the facts. Israel’s journey into Canaan was marked by such a situation. The tribes on one side of the Jordan decided to build an altar for the purpose of remembering God. Unfortunately, their brethren on the other side of the Jordan thought they were setting up their own government and worship center. Before gathering all the facts, they prepared for war. In the end no blood was shed as the two camps reached an understanding. But how often we, like they, react before all the data is in! • Assumption is the great culprit in these situations, and most overreactive people are gifted assumers. Some even assume that some kind of extrasensory perception or “spiritual discernment” informs these assumptions. In reality they do have a spirit, but it’s the spirit of fear, which God has not given us. (Read 2 Tim. 1:7.) I am so glad that perfect love casts out all fear. Here is an ACT of love you can put to practice to help de-escalate highly charged situations: • Assume the best. Even our imperfect judicial system holds an “innocent until proven guilty” principle. Learn to put the best construction upon the actions of others. Discipline yourself to refuse to engage in mind reading and fortunetelling. • Collect the facts carefully and thoroughly. Often we will be surprised by them. Nuances of the story will emerge that will enlarge our understanding. Talking to the “enemy” is an important part of this process. Ask questions in a nonaccusatory way, restraining the urge to react prematurely. During fact-gathering, be all eyes and ears. • Talk it through. Resist the temptation to vent with others before talking to those directly involved. Such venting is a form of gossip, even if it is bathed in prayer. Learn the art of reflective listening by repeating in your own words what the person has said. You don’t have to agree with the person, but you do need to acknowledge their side of the story. Closing: Let’s read Ephesians 4:14, 15 together.

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Controversy in Your Corner

Do You Understand New Age Fallacy? By Loretta Spivey

PROGRAM AIMS To uncover attempts to marginalize God and mainstream Christianity. To understand how the New Age movement has crept into Christianity. To help Christians stand and boldly proclaim that there is absolute truth in Jesus Christ. Could you subscribe to New Age beliefs and not even realize it? Do you agree with any of the following statements? • God is everything and in everything. • God is a feeling experience but not a believing experience. • Heaven is not necessarily a place but refers to an inner place of consciousness. • There are many different paths to God—or whatever you choose to call Him. • I can attract success, love, misery, money, or a job based on what I think. Web Links/Resources Go to leadmagazine.org for additional resources.

SCRIPTURE

bottom and slide down a smooth path. You can run down the steep side or run down the easier side. In the end, you get down the hill. This definition is what this movement believes. Does God’s Word support New Age belief? Acts 4:12; Ephesians 2:8, 9; John 3:36; Acts 16:31 (Important: Read and unpack each text.) Summary Statement: There is one path to heaven, God, and salvation. That path is Jesus Christ, and we must—and can—lovingly share that path with all who will hear. Misconception 2: Definitions of karma and reincarnation: • Karma—Action, seen as bringing upon oneself inevitable results, good or bad, either in this life or in a reincarnation. • Reincarnation—After death a person returns to life as another person or thing. What does God say about these beliefs? Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6; Ecclesiastes 12:7; Psalm 146:4 (It is very important to read, unpack, and understand each text.) Summary Statement: The dead don’t think, speak, love, or do anything. They are dead.

Isaiah 46:9

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER What are some names for “God” that people use today? (the universe, higher power, spirituality, enlightenment, the light)

PROGRAM Misconception 1: There is not one way to salvation, but many ways or paths that will get you to the same place. How do you define “New Age movement”? Get several different responses. Then give the definition below: Definition: Unlike most formal religions, the New Age movement has no holy text, central organization, membership, formal clergy, geographic center, dogma, creed, etc. New Age is a network of believers who share somewhat similar beliefs and practices that they add on to whichever formal religion they adhere to. Jesus is not the only way. Any system of religion or beliefs is OK, because they will all get you “saved” in the end. Think of yourself on top of a big hill. You can walk down a rocky path, you can sit on your 80

Closing: Encourage participants to memorize scriptures related to these misconceptions and false beliefs. Not to “win” the argument, but in keeping with 1 Peter 3:15, 16. (Lead in reading the text aloud.) We are blessed to have absolute truth in Christ. We don’t have to keep trying to get it right on this sinful planet by coming back as another person or thing. We can rejoice in the truth that the New Age is not here, but that Jesus is going to give us a new heaven and earth!

Loretta Parker Spivey is a local elder and the youth ministry adviser for Ethnan Temple in Pittsburgh. She participates regularly in international mission trips and enjoys spending time with her husband and five children.

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Controversy in Your Corner

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Spiritual Military Strategies By Loretta Spivey

PROGRAM AIM • To remind us that we are at war with Satan even in all of our private spaces. • To learn how to prepare for (and win) the war.

SCRIPTURE Ephesians 6:10-18

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER Let’s get into groups of two or three to name as many biblical wars or conflicts as we can within 30 seconds. Examples: • David and Goliath (1 Sam. 17:50) • Walls of Jericho (Joshua 6:2, 20) • Jehoshaphat (2 Chron. 20:20-24) • Four lepers defeat the Syrians (2 Kings 7:1-7)

PROGRAM (Designate someone to read Ephesians 6:10-18 in a listenerfriendly version.) Discussion: • Helmet of Salvation: The Roman helmet protected not only the head but also the eyes, ears, and neck of the soldier. This is symbolic of protecting the mind. It underscores the importance of guarding what we see (eyes), hear (ears), do (neck controls the movements of the head). • Breastplate of Righteousness: The breastplate protected the heart and vital organs. To wear the breastplate of righteousness indicates that your life is covered by Jesus Christ, who is the only righteous one. • Gird Loins With Truth: The loins (pelvic area) were a very vulnerable part of the body. Soldiers knew this, and the armor was designed to keep this sensitive area from injury. Today, one of Satan’s greatest areas of attack is through sexuality. One possible modern application is to remain sexually pure before Christ. • Feet Shod With the Preparation of the Gospel of Peace: Some historians say that Roman sandals were studded with nails to help them navigate bad terrain and provide more sure footing. As Christians we sometimes have to dig in our heels and LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

stand our ground. Another interesting concept is that our body will go only where our feet will take us. We are encouraged to be peacemakers instead of causing drama and conflict. • Shield of Faith: As armor goes, the shield was the one and only active defensive tool. All of the armor mentioned up to this point is simply put on and worn. Once in place, its mere position on the body provides the necessary protection. Not so with the shield. The shield has to be moved in the direction of the attack. In addition, the shield must be utilized in a timely manner as delayed defense could result in injury or death. • Sword of the Spirit: The sword of the Spirit is the infallible Word of God and is the only offensive weapon mentioned in the passage. Every other item mentioned is designed for defense. The Bible, the active, living, powerful Word of God is named as the weapon of choice for the Christian. • Praying Always: All of the armor is absolutely useless if we don’t pray and get direction from “The Captain of the Lord’s host” (Joshua 5:13-15). The interesting thing about this text is that it exhorts the believer to pray for others as well as himself. Here is the text from the Message Bible: “Prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out” (Eph. 6:18). Action Plan Wear and use the spiritual armor of God this week. Pray and ask the Lord to show you how to use His Word (1) as an offensive weapon in your corner of the battlefield; (2) to “direct” your shield of faith so that you can thwart, by His grace, the attacks of Satan. And ask Him to tell you whom you should pray for and encourage this week. Closing Let’s remember that we are in a war against Satan himself. God has outlined His strategy, unconventional in comparison to modern military strategies. Though His methods might seem marginal, and his tools might be considered oldfashioned, the battle is not ours; it’s the Lord’s. He’ll win it for us in His way.

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Family Ministries

Overstuffed Luggage By Claudio Consuegra

PROGRAM AIM To lead participants to understand how our emotional baggage may be damaging us, our families, the church, as well as the mission of the church.

SCRIPTURE Philippians 3:13, 14

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER In the coldest week of the winter you have won a free trip for one weekend in a tropical location. You have about one hour to pack a very small suitcase before you leave for the airport. What are essentials, and what could you do without?

PROGRAM Paul Scazzero, pastor of a large congregation in New York, writes: “The emotional stability of American homes is at an alltime low. In the United States at the time of this writing, about half of all marriages end in divorce. . . . George Barna has documented that the recent divorce rate for people who describe themselves as Christians is even higher than for the public as a whole” (The Emotionally Healthy Church, p. 19). So not only are church families breaking up, new members are bringing the problems of their past and current family challenges. Discussion 1. What types of emotional baggage do we carry from our past? (Some suggestions: emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.) 2. Describe your parents’ style of upbringing. Options include: • Authoritative—There is high expectations of compliance to parental rules and directions, an open dialogue about those rules and behaviors, and a child-centered approach. • Authoritarian—High expectations of conformity and compliance to parental rules and directions do not include any explanation. • Permissive—Parents have few behavioral expectations for the child. Parenting is characterized by warm affect—nurturing and accepting but not demanding. 3. Describe the religious atmosphere of your home: • Traditional—There are many traditions, good and bad. 82

• Liberal—Parents are not tied to rules or doctrines, but still have some belief system. • Conservative—Parents evidence strong beliefs and conformity to doctrines. • Grace-oriented—While doctrines and beliefs are important, grace is the overriding principle. • Legalistic—Parents have many rules and prohibitions about behavior and attitude. 4. Discuss family communication. Options include: • Open/Assertive—communicate wants, needs, or beliefs • Lack of communication skills—poor listening, avoidance of conflict, not assertive 5. Discuss conflict resolution. Options include: • Win-Lose—Someone is left frustrated and angry. • Win-Win—Looks for a positive resolution that benefits both individuals and the family. • Compromise—Willing not to always just have their way. • Avoidance—Parents know that something is wrong and harmful, but refuse to deal with it. Solutions Most of us are not licensed marriage and family therapists, but a Family Ministries Committee can plan and carry out programming and activities for members and the community. • Find out the most important needs of the congregation, e.g., a parenting seminar for young couples, a divorce recovery program. • Contact our conference Family Ministries director and ask for a Family Ministries Interest Survey or a Community Family Life Education Survey. • Talk to your pastor about organizing or being part of your church’s family ministries committee. • Request training from your conference Family Ministries director using the North American Division curriculum for local church leaders. • Make books available to your church families, e.g.: Unlocking the Secrets of Your Childhood Memories, by Kevin Leman; The Christian Home and Bible Readings for the Home, E. G. White. Claudio Consuegra, the Minnesota Conference Ministerial, Family Ministries, and Communication director, is a marriage and family counselor. He and Pamela, his wife of 27 years, have two daughters, Diana and Hadassah.

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Family Ministries

Outreach: Helping a Family in Transition By Claudio Consuegra

PROGRAM AIM To help participants think of ways to minister to families outside of the church, particularly during the traumatic changes that occur in their lives. Resources • The Emotionally Healthy Church, by Peter Scazzero • Unlocking the Secrets of Your Childhood Memories, by Kevin Leman • The Birth Order Book, by Kevin Leman • The Christian Home, by Ellen White

SCRIPTURE Ephesians 3:14, 15

MUSIC “North American Division Sabbath School Theme Song and Cheer”: leadmagazine.org

ICEBREAKER A new immigrant family just moved next door: a mother and father, two sons and their wives. They’re not fluent in English, have a different religious background, and are looking for work. You want to help them as they settle in, and you also want to reach them for Jesus. What specific, practical things could you do? (List participants, suggestions, before adding any of these suggestions: English tutoring, help finding employment, a “furniture” drive, invitation to a meal to get better acquainted.)

PROGRAM People from all over the world come to settle and begin a new life in your country. Many have left everything behind: friends, possessions, and home. Some have fled violence, poverty, or political changes in their homeland. Such was the case for Naomi’s family. Activity Divide into small groups. Ask each group to: 1. Read one chapter in the book of Ruth and write down all the family dynamics recorded there. 2. Write possible ways to minister to families facing these challenges: financial challenges, death, widowhood, singleparenting, emigration, crisis, in-law relationships, etc. LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Be Vigilant Church growth specialists say that people are most open to change and to hear and learn about God during times of crisis or changes in their life. When a new family moves to the neighborhood, they probably don’t have the network connections they had before: friends, relatives, church, etc. In small, close-knit communities where everyone knows everybody, where they attended church during childhood, and where they have always lived, it is more difficult to reach them with the Adventist message that could mean a disruption to these networks. When such people move, those connections are somewhat severed, so they are more open to establish new ones. Offering help to people during crises leads them to be more open to our companionship, information, encouragement, prayer, answers, etc. By being more aware of the dynamics in our neighborhoods, we can best reach them in their need. The Next Steps • During each of the annual holidays, make contact with each of your neighbors. Give them a greeting card, a plant, fresh or prepared food, etc., to open the door for your inquiry about their well-being. As you make these visits, be alert to family needs and help. • Whenever your church has a family-focused program or activity, invite your neighbors. Possible programs include: parenting, grief recovery, financial planning. Offer to provide transportation rather than expect that they will show up to a strange location on their own. • When you read useful books on family relations, share them with church families and your neighbors. Prayer Identify your neighbors by name or address. Ask God to help you find a way to establish a connection with your neighbors, to minister to their family needs, and to use you to His love for them.

leadmagazine.org

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

10.03.2009

People on the Move

A New Order of Connecting

Cultural Context We live in a culture with a high interest in spiritual matters but low interest in the church. This generation is marked by a thirst for Jesus, Jews, Islam, meditation, mystery, and supernatural happenings. At the same time, there is little hunger for organized religion. “I can know God all on my own” is a widespread sentiment. Necessary Background/Further Resources • They Like Jesus but Not the Church, by Dan Kimball • Unchristian, by David Kinnamen • Aquachurch, 2.0, by Leonard Sweet Preparation Get a copy of Dan Kimball’s book. Googling “Dan Kimball” will lead you to his blog to find more good information on this reality. Point of Contact Questions • Why do people in our culture choose not to attend church? While more than 90 percent claim to believe in God, some data suggests that less than one in five will be in a church on any given weekend. • What has caused this divide, saying yes to God but no to God’s church? • What qualities do churches exude that are negative? • What qualities do churches exude that are positive? • What steps can churched people take to better live out God’s dream for His assembled community? How can these actions connect with nonchurched people? Points of Conversation Read Matthew 23:1-39. How do the following phrases in Jesus’ analysis speak to contemporary church life? How might the church respond to Jesus’ warning? • “heavy burdens, hard to bear” (verse 4) • “to be seen by men” (verse 5) • “shut up the kingdom of heaven against men” (verse 13) • “blind guides” (verse 16) • “neglected the weightier matters of the law” (verse 23) • “full of extortion and self-indulgence” (verse 25) • “dead men’s bones and all uncleanness” (verse 27) • “adorn the monuments [graves] of the righteous” (verse 29) • “blood that has been shed” (verse 35) 84

Jesus uses “church” in Matthew 16:18; 18:17. Questions • What does this say about the mission and purpose of the church? • Is the church on the defensive (in a protective mode) in relation to a fallen world? • Is the church on the offensive (in an attack mode) in relation to a fallen world? • Where does Jesus want the church to go? • What people groups in our communities are living in hell? • What people groups around the world are living in hell? • If the church is involved in knocking down the gates of hell in these places, what does this mean the church is up to? • How would the perception of the church change if the members were following the Spirit of this passage? • When a church has a compelling vision for why it exists, how does this impact the way church members feel about their church? Read 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4 about a vision of church life. What does this text say about why participation in a community of believers is more than a “private” connection with Jesus Christ? Parting Thought God organized the church in the Old Testament as the children of Israel. The Holy Spirit empowered the first church leaders in the New Testament (e.g., Peter and Paul) to form local congregations, establish community, appoint elders, distribute financial resources, and cast vision for the mission of the young Jesus movement. Organization matters to God. We must carefully consider why there is such a negative view toward organized religion in our day. We must ask hard questions and seek honest answers if we are to re-form our local congregation in the biblical vision. It may be that the sinful culture needs to be challenged on their loose desire to dabble in religion. It may be that the flawed church needs to be challenged on its diseased view of God and community. Reach Out Tell someone who does not go to church that you value their opinion and simply want to better understand why they do not choose to participate in the life of a local congregation. Don’t use this conversation as a trap to push them toward church—God’s timing is important. Listen to learn.

leadmagazine.org

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• LEAD

10.10.2009

People on the Move

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

Preparing a People

feed them ourselves. • When we pray for a good grade on a test or success in a job interview, we are also committing to study, preparation, and personal effort.

Preparation Find the latest public polling on whether people think your country is moving in the right or wrong direction. A simple Google search will render some good results. Begin to explore what role government, business, education, religion, entertainment, and other areas of society play in these results. Also, N. T. Wright’s book is a pretty intellectual read and an exquisite vision of how we connect heaven (later) with earth (now). His Web site (Google “NT Wright”) contains videos of his sermons and lectures.

Questions • What does it mean to bring heaven to earth? • What is heaven? Exodus 3:7, 8 contains a phrase that appears nearly 20 times in the Old Testament. This is a description of the Promised Land, the precursor to the ultimate promised land of heaven. • What are the key ingredients in chocolate bars, milk shakes, and ice cream? What makes pancakes or corn bread move from bland to delicious? The combination of milk and honey, milk and sugar, cream and sugar, butter and syrup—dairy and sweet—is clear. This combination of ingredients turns ordinary into extraordinary. • If heaven is a land flowing with milk and honey, and God wants us to bring heaven to earth—now!—what does this mean? How do we bring milk and honey to our church, our city, our community, our family, our world? • How might His approach give us an important connection between the promise of heaven and the purpose of living on earth today?

Point of Contact • What are the most discouraging problems in our world? • What hinders us from wanting to live fully now? • How do we look forward to Jesus’ second coming and also appreciate His presence now through the Holy Spirit? (See Matt. 28:20.) • What can we celebrate (or affirm) about our present condition? • What does it mean to “engage” our current culture? Shall we escape it, conform to it, or try to transform it? What does your choice look like?

Parting Thought Some people have forgotten about heaven and focus only on this earth. Others have forgotten about this earth and focus only on heaven. The vision of God is that we would remember both. Living for heaven (in the future) and earth (in the now) are not two separate activities. In fact, Jesus connects the two in His end-time sermon in Matthew 25:31-46. The way we love, care for, develop, and recreate our present world is the way to “get ready for Jesus to come.” When we long for the riches of heaven, our response must be to enrich our present culture with the love of Jesus.

Points of Conversation Read Jesus’ prayer (Matthew 6:10). Prayer is a petition that God will act, that we will unleash His power to do something in this world. But prayer is also a commitment, asking that God would work in us toward the movement of our prayer. • When we pray for the poor we are not only asking that God would care for the hungry; we are also seeking motivation to

Reach Out Come up with a plan to bring milk and honey to your local community. A good place to start is in an underprivileged public elementary school. Go by the front desk and ask if they have a volunteer coordinator. Ask if there is anything you and your friends can do to help out, e.g., tutor, teacher support, and mentorship of young people who have little parental support.

Necessary Background/Further Resources • Surprised by Hope, by N. T. Wright • Rumors of Another World, by Philip Yancey • Messy Spirituality, by Michael Yaconelli

LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

leadmagazine.org

CONVERSATIONS

Cultural Context There are many reasons to long for heaven when we reflect on life on earth: broken families, absent parents, sexual and spiritual abuse, economic insecurity, stress, unfulfilled dreams, cancer, car accidents, and death. An “escapist” Christian simply longs to “get out of this place.” Living in a complex and sinful culture presents complex questions and challenges for the present generation.

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

10.17.2009

People on the Move: The Book of Numbers

Worship and Dedication

Cultural Context People are longing to live for something big and to give to something big. Sometimes this means people live and give big only to themselves by giving big to political parties, sports teams, civic organizations, hobbies, charities, travel opportunities, or television ministries. Many of these things are good, bad, or both. But what does it mean to live with total dedication to God, to worship Him, to invest, to risk time and treasure for His purposes? Necessary Background/Further Resources • The Irresistible Revolution, by Shane Claiborne • Same Kind of Different as Me, by Ron Hall and Denver Moore • The Jesus Creed, by Scot McKnight • Go to leadmagazine.org for an Internet link. Preparation The three books above are all excellent to read as a group on a Sabbath afternoon or Friday night. Participants would find plenty of great discussions flowing out of these authors’ provocative writings. Point of Contact • Why is it that so few people give their money boldly to God? Some data suggests that very few Christians tithe. Why not? • What is the motivation that fuels all-out worship? What causes a person to pledge his life, fortune, and sacred honor for someone or something? • Ron Hall’s life is turned upside down because of his relationship to Denver Moore (see the book above). What role does relationship play in how human beings give, serve, love, worship? • Is it possible to worship God if we believe that He is rather impersonal to us? How does love for God prompt us to worship Him? And what does this worship look like? Points of Conversation The woman in Luke 7:36-50 is totally in love with Jesus. She worships Him despite the ridicule of others, enormous personal expense, and even the risk that Jesus will disapprove of her irrational act. This story provides perhaps the best understanding of how worship should play out in our lives. 1. The woman is motivated to give all she has because she 86

recognizes her need for Christ—her sinfulness. 2. She appreciates just how much Jesus loves her and wants her to join Him in a saving relationship. 3. Her response is all out. This is not safe worship. This is not controlled giving. She empties herself, her dignity, her bank account, her life—all—to Jesus. 4. Her exuberance leads others to question, gives Jesus a chance to explain what just happened, and provides opportunity for witnesses and readers of this story to follow in her footsteps. Questions • What causes Christians to give halfhearted efforts to God? • Why do so many believers live their lives safely, pray cautiously, worship tepidly, and give conservatively? • What does it mean to go all out with total dedication to Christ? • How would you assess your Sabbath School class’s level of commitment to Jesus, and what factors would you include in this assessment? • What does your immediate community think of your church? Do they know it exists? Is your church up to something so big and great that anybody would take notice? Parting Thought We are drawn to stories (in many forms) that tell of great adventure, romantic risk, political intrigue, physical danger, and radical transformation. There is something about human beings that desire more than the routine. We want to give wildly, dare boldly, and live dangerously. Many people are tired of living a monotone life. God invites us into a relationship with Himself that is anything but routine. He calls us to abandon safety in pursuit of total adoration of Him. Reach Out Do something scary for God. Give an offering like you’ve never given before. Pray in a way that scares you to death. Make a commitment to your Sabbath School class, your church, your pastor, your family—that will make your palms sweat and your knees knock. But do it out of response to the affection you feel from your Savior. If you don’t personally know Him, ask Him to reveal the extent of His love for you. Together read aloud Romans 8:31-39.

leadmagazine.org

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• LEAD

10.24.2009

People on the Move

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

Trumpet, Blood, Cloud, and Fire

Cultural Context Do you ever hear the voice of God? We live in a culture divided: some reject that God speaks, shows, guides, leads, or communicates. They say, “God is inside of me; He is merely my thoughts and feelings.” On the other side of the divide stand those who hear God tell them to do all manner of interesting, crazy—unscriptural—things: to kill people, to hoard money for themselves, to break up with their wife and pursue a romantic affair. Is there a way to hear and follow God’s voice? Necessary Background/Further Resources • Experiencing God, by Henry Blackaby • Here and Now, by Henri Nouwen • Abba’s Child, by Brennon Manning Preparation Henry Blackaby suggests four ways of discovering God’s will (hearing His voice): (1) Bible; (2) prayer; (3) circumstances; (4) church. These four voices allow us to understand where God is leading. What issues (either hypothetical or real) could you apply to this method of hearing God? Take a tough decision at work, home, with friends, family, or a personal commitment and see what the Bible says, what private prayer reveals, what the circumstances of life tell you, and what the church (a community of trusted Christians) has to say. Hearing God is often the process of listening to Him through the means He has provided. Point of Contact • Why is it so hard to know God’s will? • How can we improve our hearing? • When have you heard God’s voice most clearly? What was the circumstance? How did you hear Him? What preparation (spiritual disciplines), if any, were involved in this experience? • Henri Nouwen says in Here and Now that we are constantly living in the future and in the past. And so we rarely live in the present. This is a problem, according to the author, because God lives and acts in the present, in the now. Because we are focusing on what’s coming and what’s already happened, we miss what God is up to in our lives and our world. • How can we get settled in the moment?

LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Points of Conversation • (Read Exodus 3:1-6.) Moses is not rewarded with this encounter with God because he sees the flames! He hears God because he notices there are no ashes forming beneath the bush. • Is it possible that we are very good at identifying burning bushes in the world? From a so-called “secular” standpoint we notice improvements in technology, transportation, and telecommunications. We know what’s going on in the sporting world, the entertainment industry, and the latest contestants on American Idol. We pay much attention to these things. But also, from a “religious” standpoint, we are good at knowing theology, reading the Bible, attending church, paying attention to the sermon, and participating in church camping trips. We become well-versed and richly experienced in the “burning bush” of life. • The problem: We do not notice something deeper and more subtle. We do not see the working of God. We do not notice what He is up to—beneath, above, within, and around the events of life—both inside and outside the church. • Knowing God’s voice: Does this require a new kind of “paying attention”? What does this look like? Is this possible? • If you were advising a nonchurched friend on how to better hear the voice of God, what would you tell him or her? How did Abraham, Moses, Jacob, Mary, and Paul hear God’s voice? What were they doing and how does this apply in our context? Parting Thought Listening to God means that we must open our ears. A life dominated by text-messaging, web-surfing, television-watching, iPod-hearing, and overall busyness makes this difficult. But a life jammed full of religious activities also can interfere with our ability to recognize God’s attempts to nudge, correct, inspire, and above all, love us. Reach Out It’s time for a media fast. How about a week without music? How about a week without wireless connection? How about a week without any access to the news? A week without the television? A week of evenings minus the cell phone? There is nothing inherently wrong with any of these things, but a recalibration of our souls can take place when we step away from those things that dominate so much of our time. Perhaps your small group or Sabbath School class could make a shared commitment to some kind of “rest” from the clutter of life.

leadmagazine.org

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

10.31.2009

People on the Move

From Complaints to Apostasy

Cultural Context Bad attitudes can wreck lives. We live in a culture that is often kind of “whiny.” We often feel a sense of entitlement. If the satellite feed goes out for 10 minutes, some people go crazy! When things don’t go well, our generation can often pitch a fit: “Fix this, dad!” “Fix this, government!” “Fix this, boss!” “Fix this, God!” The desert of this life can leave us thirsty, hungry, bored, hurting, and disillusioned. A wrong response can lead to serious problems—including sin—in our lives. Necessary Background/Further Resources • The Winning Attitude, by John C. Maxwell • The Art of Possibility, by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander • Generation Me, by Jean M. Twenge Preparation Dr. Jean Twenge contends that our generation is obsessed with itself. Out of this infatuation flows a culture of complaint. If I matter most, anything that does not please me is a problem. The author writes persuasively about the decline of social rules: The rejection of community, increased stress, apathy, rude and crude behavior, and the desire to have it all—without really trying. Make a list of what people tend to complain about: • family • government • work • church • culture in general Points of Conversation Questions • What is the effect of having a negative attitude? Contrast this with a life centered in Jesus Christ. • What factors have caused so many rich and famous people to go down the road of despair? • Is having a good attitude a choice or a product of circumstances? Point of Contact Read Exodus 14:10-12; 16:1-3; 17:1-3. • These three passages tell the story of the Israelites’ com88

plaining: (1) They fear the Egyptians will kill them; (2) They fear they will starve; (3) They fear they will die of thirst. Questions • Is fear the basis of complaint? If so, what does it say about us when we complain about having too little money; too few friends; a lousy government, workplace, family, spouse, church, or life? What does this say about us and our understanding of and appreciation for God? Read Psalm 3:5, 6 and 1 John 4:18. • What do these passages tell us about fear, God, and, therefore, our attitude toward life? • How might you counteract danger zones where you know that certain people, times of the day, situations, etc., can lead you to be more fearful, more critical, or otherwise more negative? • What tools can you employ to repair a bad attitude: a couple memorized Bible passages? A phone call to a superpositive friend? A brisk 20-minute walk or run? Parting Thought A good attitude is born of an experience with a good God. If a bad attitude (complaining, griping, whining) can lead us to sin and be sin in some instances, we must correct this emotional/intellectual/spiritual perspective. Getting on the right track is more than simply saying, “I will have a good attitude!” But this isn’t a bad place to start. A positive outlook on life flows out of a positive view of life. If we believe God created this world that is now deeply flawed by sin, we assume this existence to be a good one. And if we assume God and life to be good and that Jesus loves us, we have a foundation for looking at the problems of our culture. And the final product of a good attitude is that we will enjoy life more and be a blessing to those around us. Reach Out Take the seven-day challenge: Speak nothing but positive things about life and people. No gossip. No criticism. No complaining—not even about the weather, heavy traffic, food, the dog—nothing. This retraining can help you move toward a God-shaped optimism. Make this a mutual commitment with fellow members of your small group or Sabbath School class.

leadmagazine.org

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• LEAD

11.07.2009

People on the Move

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

Planning Ahead

Cultural Context I know people who hoped to be financially free but never did the preparation of making a personal budget and sticking to it. I know people who hoped to be physically fit but never did the preparation of riding a bike, running, lifting weights, or eating good foods. And so, in each of these instances, dreams were never realized. God wants us to make preparations for the life He wants us to lead in this world, and for the life He has in store for us in heaven one day. Necessary Background/Further Resources • Celebration of Discipline, by Richard Foster • A Resilient Life, by Gordon MacDonald • Making Life Work, by Bill Hybels • The Life You’ve Always Wanted, by John Ortberg Preparation Colin Powell, the former U.S. general and secretary of state, said that once war begins, all the plans go out the window. Life is pretty unpredictable at that point. The key is preparation. Richard Foster’s classic book lists meditation, prayer, fasting, [Bible] study, simplicity, solitude, submission, service, confession, worship, guidance, and celebration as 12 core disciplines for the development of a well-ordered spiritual life. The purpose of these activities is to become the kind of person who is able to live out the call and journey of God no matter the twists and turns of life. Reflect on how each of these disciplines can help train you for your life with God. Point of Contact Questions • What does it mean to be well-prepared to live the Christian life? • What should you be prepared to do? • What should you be prepared to handle? • What skills should you be able to apply to your marriage, your family life, your academic life, your work life, your church life? • What unexpected events should you have the skill to handle (with the Holy Spirit’s strength)? • How can you, like one who prepares to climb a high mountain, obtain the knowledge, abilities, attitudes, and acumen to climb this life with God? LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Points of Conversation Read Hebrews 11:1–12:3. Chapter 11 gives us examples of men and women who were well-equipped to live a life of faith. Their circumstances vary widely; their commitment is very much the same. Questions • What does this mean for us? Chapter 12 hints at ways to build similar resolve. What does it mean to use their example in order to be stronger ourselves? Do we simply read their story, and it works like magic? How does this work? What about “fixing our eyes on Jesus”? What does this mean, and how does it translate into solid preparation for life? Read Matthew 10:1-20. Here are at least six essential points as Jesus is training His followers for life (and ministry). 1. A sense of calling and authority 2. A specific role or a narrower calling 3. Wisdom in traveling light 4. Wisdom in not “forcing” life and mission 5. Danger 6. Power over the danger • What is the wisdom in Jesus’ teaching? How did it prepare the disciples? How can it prepare us today? • If Sabbath School is “school” and the purpose of school is to train us for something, what is the purpose of Sabbath School? • What is the relationship between Sabbath School and our minds? our hearts? our body? our ability to effectively navigate the nuances of life? Parting Thought We must organize our finances: earn, save, give, invest, and spend. We must invest in a good marriage: dates, prayers, and affection. We must invest in our children: time. We must prepare ourselves spiritually for God’s call and God’s lead: submit to His Spirit. He can use us for His purposes. Reach Out Make a spiritual development plan. Take a sheet of paper and describe what you are going to do and when you are going to do it. How will the disciplines described by Richard Foster be used in your life? Brainstorming can produce an even better game plan.

leadmagazine.org

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

11.14.2009

People on the Move

Power Struggle

Cultural Context Trust in leadership and in organizations is very low in our culture, particularly with the younger generations. We often don’t believe that large corporations; bureaucracies; political, educational, and business leaders have our best interest at heart. Christianity in North America is also given low marks for trustworthiness. The cover-up of clerics’ sex crimes is part of the problem. Questions • How do we trust our spiritual leaders, as the Bible asks us to do, without blindly following their lead? • How do we avoid the fate of the Israelites who did not trust Moses and Aaron? • How do we honor God and the leaders He appoints? Necessary Background/Further Resources • The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse, by David Johnson and Jeff VanVonderen • A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, by Eugene Peterson • Relational Holiness, by Thomas Jay Oord and Michael Lodahl Preparation Johnson and VanVonderen, a pastor and a psychologist, have written a book on how to identify and avoid spiritual abuse by spiritual leaders. This would be a worthwhile read for the entire class. Google “church abuse cases” and “are churches trustworthy” for an array of articles and perspectives on this subject. Point of Contact Questions • Oord and Lodahl define holiness as primarily relational. We must love, respect, honor, and care for one another if we are to be spiritually mature. How ought we to love, respect, honor, and care for our leaders? • We don’t live under the same governance system as Moses and the Israelites. What does it mean to “obey”? What does obedience to spiritual leaders look like today? Must we obey our pastor, the church board, and the General Conference? Is this concept outdated? • What should be church members’ relationship to their pastor? 90

Points of Conversation Read Hebrews 13:17 and Romans 13:1-7. Questions What does it mean to: • have confidence in human leaders? • submit to human leaders? • bring joy to leaders? • to burden leaders? • to benefit leaders? Israel’s history is marked by both good and bad kings. Indeed, the very first king, Saul, turned out to be very bad for his people. History records a mix of both good and bad spiritual leaders in many denominations and faith traditions. Committees make good decisions most of the time, but sometimes they make decisions that, in retrospect, prove not to be the best. Questions • What is our basic responsibility to our spiritual leaders? • When do we have cause to go against authority? • What is the danger of being perpetually negative about spiritual or secular leaders? • Do I have a responsibility to stand up for leaders when they are being torn down in any way? • Do I have a responsibility to stand up for someone abused by a leader? Parting Thought In an age when leaders are not generally well thought of, our role as Christians must be to help select and support good leaders. We must give grace where grace is due when they are less than perfect and pray for them. We must recognize the challenging call of God in their lives. Leaders find their ultimate accountability to God. We may not be able to overturn the powers that be, but we can pray for God’s influence in their lives and for wisdom in how to follow them. Remember that Jesus Christ is our leader, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Reach Out Send a handwritten note of appreciation to your pastor. This act will build up a spiritual leader and help shape your heart.

leadmagazine.org

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• LEAD

11.21.2009

People on the Move

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

Priests and Levites

Cultural Context There is a common quest in our culture for purpose, for meaning—to live an extraordinary life. The church has the answer to this yearning. Every member of the body of Christ has been created to create. We were not made to merely consume life and religion. The call to become a Christian is not the invitation to sit and listen to sermons and music, eat food, attend meetings, and simply consume the church culture. The dream of membership in Christ’s assembly is to be given a great job to do, a calling, a life of significance. Necessary Background/Further Resources • What Are Spiritual Gifts? by Kenneth Berding • Simply Put: What God’s Been Saying All Along, by Loron Wade • Let Your Life Speak, by Parker Palmer Preparation Parker Palmer wonders if many of us will one day look back at our lives and discover that what we have been doing is not really what God made us to do. And worse: We are not really living out who we are. If you have time to read Palmer’s very, very short book, it is well worth the time. His words will challenge your life in a deep—and perhaps scary—way. Point of Contact Kenneth Berding argues in What Are Spiritual Gifts? that we each should feel a unique and compelling call to a certain kind of life, activity, and ministry. Ask the class: “When have you felt called, motivated, or nudged to do something, to be apart of something, to join something?” Our strengths (what we’re good at) can be an indicator of the kinds of things God has gifted (DNA-ed) us to do. Ask class members to share their strengths. Affirm one another’s strengths. Google or YouTube “Catherine Rohr” for a fascinating story of how a young person heard and pursued an exciting calling. Points of Conversation Read Jeremiah 1:4-19. Here God calls a young man to an important work.

• Does God communicate in other ways when He calls you? • What should someone feel when they are called by God: fear, excitement, joy, dread, happiness? • What information does God reveal when He calls a man or woman to service? Does He spell out every detail about what this work will look like, or is that person responding to God’s call largely acting in “blind faith”? • Should Christians normally be called to action? Read Mark 1:1-3. Questions • What can we learn about the purpose of every call? • What “voice” has God given you? What kind of voice is it? Where is it to be spoken and heard? Ephesians 4:11-13 tells us that the purpose of pastors is “to equip” church members for service. Notice that a pastor’s job is not to do the work of ministry while the congregation cheers them on. A pastor should be in the business of getting church members to discover how they can serve and then providing training for that service. Questions • What is God putting in your heart to do in your church or in your community? • What breaks your heart? • What quickens your heart? • What skills do you have? • Where is God leading you? Parting Thought The purpose of life is to live, not to exist. Living is about giving, creating, shaping, changing, healing, growing, blessing, beautifying, bringing together, and loving. People have both genetic and experiential histories that make them uniquely positioned to do something important and wonderful for God and His kingdom. Reach Out Encourage class members to go online and take a simple “spiritual gifts” test. There are many that are free and easy tools to see how they have been made by God for the very best service to build up the church and bless the world.

Questions • Have you ever heard God speak clearly? If not, why not? LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

leadmagazine.org

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

11.28.2009

People on the Move

The Sin of Moses and Aaron

Cultural Context We all have weaknesses. One stream of thought in today’s culture is to simply focus on what we do well—and just leave problems behind. The self-esteem movement leans in this direction. Another reality in our world is that people (especially young people) are consumed with their failings. They don’t like themselves very much. They feel like failures (spiritually and otherwise). The Bible argues for a middle way that neither denies our weaknesses nor asks us to wallow in them. Jesus invites us to confront our sin for the purpose of confession, healing, and hope. Necessary Background/Further Resources • Divine Nobodies, by Jim Palmer • Wide Open Spaces, by Jim Palmer • YouTube’s “Charlie Bit Me” focuses on how even little children have personal struggles. Preparation Jim Palmer has written two excellent books on how messed-up people find the love and grace of Jesus Christ. These books are well worth reading by the entire class if possible. They deal with fallen humanity in a way that is both honest and redemptive. The “Charlie Bit Me” clip is a great discussion starter to bring both “knowing” and smiles to those in the class.

Questions • How and when do we confess our sins? • What sins should I confess privately to God? • What sins should I share with others? • Who is it appropriate to talk to about my sin? • How does confession of sin move me toward greater wholeness and integrity? Points of Conversation Sin is often an attempt to grasp at life in a way that actually takes away life. Sexual sin seeks pleasure it cannot really find. Materialism seeks satisfaction that can’t be had in this way. Mistreating others may seem like a way to secure your place in this world, but it compounds our insecurity. Sin is trying to get more life (Eden’s Apple) in a way that does not work. Questions • Share examples of how and how not to get life. • When Jesus promises “abundant life” (John 10:10), how is this a radical alternative to sin?

Point of Contact “Sin” is a highly charged word. Questions • When you hear the word “sin,” what does it do inside your heart? • If you know the pastor is going to preach about “sin,” what do you expect? • Where (if anywhere) do you hear sin talked about in the popular culture? • How does the word “sin” compare to more popular words and terms: “indiscretion,” “gaff,” “error in judgment,” “just being human,” “dysfunctional,” “illness,” “broken,” “compromised”? • Does it matter that we use the word “sin?” If so, why? Paul paints a pretty depressing (or at last difficult) picture of his tangle with sin. If we’re being honest, we will acknowledge that Paul is honest. Read Romans 7:14-25. Questions • Is sin something that we permanently leave behind in this 92

life, or something that keeps coming back? • If the same temptations keep coming to me, is this a sign of spiritual weakness? • Should I be sinning less over time? If so, how do I know this is happening? • If Jesus forgives me of sin but sin still is part of my life, what am I to do? Read 1 John 1:9, 10.

Parting Thought Sin is seriously toxic (Rom. 6:23). On the other hand, dwelling on sin can lead to depression, discouragement, and broken relationships with God and human beings. Confessing sin is not obsessing about your own failings or the failings of others; confession provides a way to get rid of sin. Spiritual health is found not in ignoring sin or focusing on it, but in giving it to God. Reach Out Practice confession. Take a piece of paper and write down those areas of your life that are falling short of God’s ideal. Admit your current reality. Be totally honest with God—do not water down anything. Seek God’s forgiveness. Claim the gift of Christ’s sacrifice. Embrace the reality that God loves you completely and desires to work transformation in your life.

leadmagazine.org

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• LEAD

12.05.2009

People on the Move

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

The “Madness” of the Prophet

Cultural Context Money is messin’ with us. Our culture is awash in debt. Stress has devastated our homes, businesses, communities, and our governments. And so we are also slaves according to Proverbs 22:7. We are overrun by material things. Our houses and our storage facilities are bigger. Our lives are busier than ever trying to keep, clean, and care for our stuff. And so we are slaves. Jesus is the Creator of all things. He is not against material, physical things, but He does not want us to worship at the church of consumerism. Necessary Background/Further Resources • The Challenge of the Disciplined Life, by Richard Foster • Money, by Bob Russell • Maxed Out (a documentary film available on Netflix and Amazon) Preparation Richard Foster has a section on money that is well worth the read, providing an excellent psychology and spiritual background to the way we think about material things. Sections of Maxed Out would be worth the class’s consideration. Point of Contact What can we say about the incessant television advertising, e.g., credit card offers and Internet commercials practically begging us to buy and promising us immortal bliss if we just have the latest computer, vacation, or pair of jeans? The class will need no introduction to the reality. Questions • What was the first thing you purchased as a child? • What was the first thing you wanted very much? • When have you had major buyer’s remorse? • Share about a time when you got a great deal? • When have you felt financially free?

toward God? • How do people build bigger barns in 2009? • How does serving the poor impact a healthy view of money? • What concrete role does the concept of “simplicity” play in our approach to material things? • When Jesus asks that we give up everything for Him, does He mean that we should not own anything? What spiritual truth is being communicated here? • Money ranks as the number one stressor in marriages and families. How does this play out and what can be done to change this family-busting reality? • Would you take less pay for less stress? • Would you exchange more money or more things for more freedom? Parting Thought Money is not evil; loving money is evil. Material things are gifts from God, the Creator. The problem is when we get “drunk” on what we can buy instead of what we can give. Jesus had very little in order that He might be free to give much to God and people. He was “rich toward God.” If we are going to be followers of Jesus, this means we must follow His example in regard to money. Reach Out A movement toward simplicity and freedom from material things can begin by giving up our stuff—and not just the old and worn-out stuff. Work to downsize and tidy your life this week. Take some specific, tangible steps in the direction of the kind of life Jesus envisions. Cancel a secular magazine subscription, cancel cable television, shut down some areas of expenditure that are putting unnecessary pressure on your relationship with the people you love and the God you love.

Points of Conversation Read Luke 12:13-21. Jesus tells a chilling story about a man who invested his whole life and heart in something that simply could not deliver life. Questions • What does it mean to be spiritually and financially rich LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

leadmagazine.org

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

12.12.2009

People on the Move

Immorality on the Border

Cultural Context “Sex.” This word gets our attention. Sultry faces on large interstate billboards pitch cell phone plans. Internet pop-ups promise financial ecstasy if only we sign up for the shiny credit card displayed in the hands of a too-hot model. Magazine covers bearing models with little clothing and much skin scream: “What awaits you inside is too good to miss!” Sex is everywhere. God made sex. But what has humanity made of it?

mature (neither silly nor shallow) conversation? How should the church enter into conversations about romance, affection, intercourse, virginity, pregnancy, and sexual healing? Read 2 Samuel 13:1-22. The story of Amnon and Tamar provides a sobering look at the danger of misplaced sexual desire and the tragic results that follow (see also chapters 14–17). The intensity of Amnon’s unhealthy sexual desire is eclipsed only by his repulsion after his act of despicable violence and violation.

Necessary Background/Further Resources • The Naked Truth About Sex, by Lauren Winner • Money, Sex, and Power, by Richard Foster • Sex God, by Rob Bell

Questions • How should the church speak to issues of sexual addiction? • How should the church provide healing to children and adults who have been victims of sexual abuse? • How can the church be “real” and also full of grace and respect? Read 1 Corinthians 6:12-19.

Preparation The chapters on sexuality in Richard Foster’s book are essential reading for any discussion of sexuality. Shock data may not be useful for this study because we know the kind of media culture we live in. What we need is a deeper, more mature exploration. Point of Contact Questions Don’t answer these questions too quickly. • Do we talk about sex too much or too little in our culture, families, and church? • Is sex bad or good? • Is sex solely a private topic, or is it also a public topic? • What are the greatest problems with sexuality in fallen human nature and within our culture? • How do “addiction,” “abuse,” “abstinence,” “cheap,” “expensive,” “holy,” and “love” impact the subject of sexuality? Points of Conversation Read Song of Solomon 4:1-16. Why is there such sexually explicit language in the Scriptures? What is the purpose of this book in the Bible? Some have argued that the Song of Solomon has nothing to do with male-female relationships but is purely an allegory about a human being’s relationship to God. However, this interpretation does not seem to adequately explain this poetic work. Questions • Why do we have a difficult time talking about sexuality as 94

Questions • What does it mean to live a holy life in terms of sexuality? • How can we help one another live in purity? • What does it mean to provide support and accountability without adding to a heavy burden of legalism that may drive a person into deeper despair? Parting Thought In this age sexual awareness begins early and puberty breeds sexual interest early, but weddings are happening on average in the late 20s. So the church must not avoid the subject of sexuality or simply say, “Don’t,” and leave it at that. If the church is to be relevant, as Jesus and the Scriptures always are, we must have the courage not only to argue for a high sexual standard but also to have the courage to enter into one another’s conversation and lives. Reach Out Purchasing Lauren Winner’s book and discussing it in an appropriate setting would be an excellent step forward. Encourage class members to consider their sexual situation this week: Married: What can you do to guard your marriage against adultery? What can you do to enhance the experience of sex within your marriage? Single: How can you remain faithful to God? Who are the friends who can strengthen you?

leadmagazine.org

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• LEAD

12.19.2009

People on the Move

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

The Second Generation: Admonitions

Cultural Context Every generation must choose how to respond to God. This was true of Israel, the first Christians, Builders, Boomers, Gen X, Gen Y, Millennials, and those who are not yet born. While we draw on the strengths and suffer with the weaknesses of those before us, ultimately, we must choose if and how we will serve God.

Necessary Background/Further Resources • Loving God, by Charles Colson • God Is Closer Than You Think, by John Ortberg • God Wants to Save Christians, by Rob Bell Preparation This week’s lesson may benefit from some musical worship. YouTube has seemingly limitless videos that combine worshipful pictures and familiar hymns or more contemporary praise songs. Reflection upon God’s call requires some important preparation of heart, mind, and soul. If you have access to a television, laptop computer, or a simple CD player, this will help you set the right mood in the class. Point of Contact The word “serious” isn’t very popular in religious circles. The problem is that robust Christianity is practiced by those who are legalistic, major in minors, and would not dare watch a Hollywood movie but are, nonetheless, ugly, mean, and hateful. A new generation finds it undesirable to embrace God’s calling fully and with seriousness when examples are not healthy or even biblical. Questions • What does it mean to be serious about God? • How do you give your life fully to Jesus without abandoning life in the real world? • How do you balance a commitment to discipleship with a need to connect to your culture? • Can we be faithful without “escaping” life? Points of Conversation Consider the word “incarnation” literally meaning “in the flesh’ and also used to describe the choice God made to send Jesus —in essence, to send Himself in the form of a fallen and flawed human being. Philippians 2:5-11 shows the significant decision Jesus made to live “incarnate,” in the skin. LEAD • OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

Questions • How do we live like Jesus, who was totally committed to God yet totally committed to living on earth? • Read Matthew 5:13-16. Discuss what it means to be highsodium salt and high-wattage light. • How do you decide to live aggressively, full-heartedly, and supremely for God? How do you remain “holy” and make a difference in the world? How can you strive to be “clean” and yet get “dirty” while loving the world? A theologian named Craig Blomberg suggests that Jesus chose to live with “contagious holiness.” In his book by that title he argues that Christians today often choose as did the religious folk of Jesus’ day to avoid the culture because they are afraid they will “catch” the disease of the fallen world. Blomberg argues that holiness will actually “infect” the world when we interact under the Holy Spirit’s leadership. Questions • Is Blomberg’s position possible? • What does it mean to be a missionary? • How does missionary living impact a person’s spiritual life? • What keeps a missionary strong? • Speaking negatively, what is the opposite of a “missionary mentality”? Does the “opposite” have a positive spiritual outcome? • What does it mean for this generation to choose God all the way? Parting Thought Each generation must choose to embrace the Holy Scriptures, the Holy Spirit, and a holy calling. Choosing the path of a holy God means not only assenting to certain theological truths or lifestyle patterns, but diving into the specific mission that God has in store. God’s call is often bold, dangerous, and stretching. But He also provides the spiritual strength necessary to be victorious in the work He gives. Reach Out Decide as a Sabbath School class what your mission will be. How will you go beyond merely talking about biblical themes each week? How are you taking the step beyond conversation to permanently establish a way to bring light and salt to the world you live in? Picture the impact this would have on your class, your families, and your church. Add practical and important mission work to your experience.

leadmagazine.org

Bible Studies

CONVERSATIONS With Alex Bryan

12.26.2009

People on the Move

Cities of Refuge

Cultural Context The Christmas season reminds us of God’s rescue plan. We are a planet of convicts, felons, and mistake-makers in need of rescue and refuge. Our own culture is marked by failing families, overstressed workers, frayed friendships, empty hearts, failed dreams, and frequent loneliness. Jesus calls us to participate in bringing joy, hope, and love to the world. Necessary Background/Further Resources • The Ragamuffin Gospel, by Brennan Manning • Lion and Lamb, by Brennan Manning • The Signature of Jesus, by Brennan Manning • Building Strong Congregations, by Bruce Wrenn, Philip Kotler, and Norman Shawchuck Preparation If you can download or order almost any sermon by Brennan Manning before class, this will add a strong component to your Sabbath School conversation. Ragamuffin Gospel is one of the great “grace” classics of the late twentieth century. Also: if you can YouTube “Paul Potts” to view his audition on British Idol, this is a powerful statement about grace and love to share with your class. Point of Contact We have all messed up repeatedly. The common denominator for every human being is our status as contributors to the crucifixion of Christ. Questions • When have you felt most guilty? Most forgiven? • When have you powerfully seen guilt at work in someone else? • When have you given grace in a difficult situation? • How does grace play out in friendship, marriage, with parents and with children, in the workplace, and at church? • What does it mean, in specific terms, to be a grace-bathed church? What does this look like on the platform, in the pew, the lobby, the parking lot—and in the Sunday-Friday life of worshippers? • What does it mean to be a “church of refuge”? Points of Conversation Read Luke 15 in its entirety—one story at a time—followed 96

by conversation, questions, and observations. Jesus seems to be pretty determined to combat an accusation by the religious leaders near the beginning of this chapter. And so He spins three stories (each making the same point) combating their attitude, theology, and words. Questions • How does Jesus characterize those who have committed great sin and don’t know what to do? • What is the attitude of the woman, the shepherd, and the father? • Why does the father see his son when he is still “a long way off”? What must this parent be doing—day-by-day? • What is the magnitude of the celebration? • Do you believe that the greed, laziness, other bad habits, and the brokenness of the fallen son were solved in that moment of acceptance by his father? • Do you believe the fallen son had to say, “Hello, I am a recovering sinner” the rest of his life? • What does it mean for a Sabbath School class, a church, or a lone Christian to be in the business of seeking lost people? • Is your church a place people run to or run from in times of sinful crisis? • What are the most difficult sins to deal with and why? How does a congregation prepare itself—and grow—in its ability to gracefully and truthfully deal with sinful human beings? Parting Thought Two strong positions on sin: (1) “Let it go.” Treating sin as if it is not serious is not the biblical vision. (2) Hate both the sin and the sinner’s position. Churches that are clubs for sinners who can keep their sins “under wraps” are not transformational communities. We must become places of reform as well as safety. The church should be a community of love— hating that which kills and loving those who are sick. Reach Out What if your class gains pastoral approval to host a series of conversations in your church about how to be a “church of refuge”? You could help stimulate growth. Your Sabbath School class has the power to be an instrument of grace and growth in your congregation, reaching first to those who share your house of worship.

leadmagazine.org

OCT, NOV, DEC ’09

• LEAD

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SIMPLY PUT WHAT GOD’S BEEN SAYING ALL ALONG

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