AN INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS PUBLICATION
WWW.SALVATIONARMY.ORG/ONEARMY
rmy one
THE {BOOK }
IN HOPE
AN INTERNATIONAL TEACHING RESOURCE
{YOUTH BOOK } IN HOPE
one rmy
rmy one the {book }
IN HOPE sure and certain
JESUS AND HOPE one rmy
one rmy home – to God. He would bring healing. He would act on behalf of those who had no one to speak for them. He would bring the light of his presence to those who, described as poor, honoured God with humility and sought him with reverence. Jesus had not come to strengthen the mighty and powerful with more self-importance. He came to bring the hope of God’s grace to those who would truly welcome it.
acted on behalf of the despised, the rejected and unpopular. He protected the vulnerable, made friends with the friendless and lived to save those considered by others to be not worth saving – those without hope. He was and is the great hope giver. If we are to be his disciples, to follow in his footsteps, we are called not only to enjoy this hope, but also to share it.
As we have noted before, Jesus repeatedly HOPE. What did Jesus say about hope? The answer is ‘not much’ - according to the Gospels. If we look for specific references they are difficult to find. He spoke about faith and love. He taught about prayer and forgiveness. He called himself Way, Truth and Life – but he is hardly ever recorded as referring to hope. Yet Jesus is the greatest bringer of hope in the history of mankind. The apostle Paul describes him as ‘Christ Jesus our hope’ (1 Timothy 1:1). When beginning his ministry, Jesus returned to the synagogue where he had been brought up. He was handed a scroll that contained Isaiah’s prophecies and he chose to read these words: ‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour’ (Luke 4:18, 19). Although Isaiah had written these words centuries earlier (Isaiah 61:1, 2) Jesus chose to use them as his own – selecting each sentence carefully to make them his personal manifesto. It was a universal manifesto – not just for the people of his own country. Isaiah’s vision had included ‘the day of vengeance of our God’ (v 2), but Jesus left this out1. His mission was to include Gentiles, not to
in hope
– jesus and hope one
rmy the book
in hope jesus and hope
exclude them with retribution. This was the ‘year of the Lord’s favour’. He had come to be the Saviour of the world. Not surprisingly, the people who had seen Jesus grow into manhood in his home town didn’t greet his declaration with enthusiasm. He spoke of being anointed and ‘sent’ – a divine mission. Not only did they refuse to see him in his Messianic light, but also they didn’t like his message. It was too all-embracing in its tone. But this was something they would have to get used to – and so do we. The Saviour is for everyone. The hope Jesus brings crosses all barriers and boundaries – and he calls us to do the same.
In Discussion 1. Paul described Jesus as ‘our hope’. What did he mean? 1 Timothy 1:1 2. In what ways might it be a Christian’s responsibility to bring hope to others? Mark 16:15; Ephesians 1:18; James 5:19, 20 3. Do we ever resent his universal love for those we may not like? Do we truly ‘cross all barriers’ with the hope we share? Give reasons for your answers. Acts 1:8; James 2:1-7 4. Peter said we should be ready to give a reason for the hope that is within us. How would you describe it? 1 Peter 3:15
03
In Prayer Thank God that Jesus not only brought hope to our world, but also (and especially significantly) that he is our ongoing and unfailing hope.
But when Jesus announced good news, he was more than a messenger. He was the message. He was the good news. Through his life, death and resurrection, he would set people free. He would bring captives the book
an international teaching resource
THE SALVATION ARMY AND HOPE
one rmy
one rmy well as governmental and social services. It looks to improving intellectual, moral and spiritual health. It seeks to build functional families, supportive communities, and social orders that protect people with no voice. In short, it has an advocacy and advisory role for the Army, bringing justice and hope into the most hopeless of situations.
ATTITUDES towards the poor and disadvantaged vary. In some countries those in need are openly despised. They are regarded as an embarrassment. People look down on them and enjoy feeling superior. They blame the poor for being poor and seem to feel no sense of obligation to help them. In such places and circumstances the poor have little or no hope.
in HOPE the SALVATION ARMY AND HOPE
Some societies ensure they set aside part of their national budget to support those who would not survive or manage without help. To greater and lesser extents the disadvantaged are remembered, bringing a measure of hope to many. There are, of course, those who create publicity for themselves as they perform their ‘good works’, but God knows their motives and is not fooled (Matthew 6:2-4). Proverbs 14:31 gives the divine perspective: ‘If you oppress poor people, you insult the God who made them; but kindness shown to the poor is an act of worship’ (GNB).
At work in more than 125 countries, The Salvation Army experiences a variety of attitudes towards those in need. Governments, organisations and people in general, react in contrasting ways – from genuine compassion to wholesale corruption. The Army has had to learn how to operate according to the situation in which it ministers, without compromising its mission of hope. Sometimes it has needed to educate those who become Christians into a thought pattern of caring. They have previously known only self-interest and lived with corruption as their accepted culture. In such circumstances, conversions in hope
– the salvation army and hope one
to a genuinely Christian lifestyle necessarily take time. The Salvation Army was born to bring hope. The compassion of early-day Salvationists gave the Army a caring identity from the beginning2. Today, its supportive social programmes around the world not only testify to its own hopes to do God’s will, but also, on a daily basis, consistently bring hope to those who have no hope3. The task, however, can seem overwhelming.
In 2005, in Sydney, Australia, a local Salvation Army corps introduced its own advocacy service, Courtyard Legal. It found itself in such demand that by 2010 the territory launched Salvos Legal5, using two full-time commercial and humanitarian law firms. Information as to how lives have been
transformed and given fresh hope can be found in the book, Salvos Legal: stories from the courtyard6. Yet advocacy isn’t the business of organisations only. In every society people with no voice, no prospects and no hope, long for an advocate – someone to come alongside them, to give support and bring hope. Without those who are prepared to make this their business, needless misery will continue. We are each meant to be hope bringers. Bring hope – it could transform your life too.
In Discussion 1. ‘The Salvation Army was born to bring hope.’ Discuss. Romans 10:14-15 2. How does your culture view and relate to poor and disadvantaged people? Is the Salvation Army’s stance any different? What are the challenges? Proverbs 14:31; Matthew 25:31-46 3. Research the work of the Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Commission. Compare it with what Jesus affirmed at Nazareth. Luke 4:16-21 4. Salvos Legal (see above) advocates for those with no voice. Could your corps – or you personally – do more to speak up for those with no voice? Who might they be? Deuteronomy 15:7; Proverbs 14:25; John 8:7
05
In Prayer Pray that we will each be bringers of hope wherever we are, and not rely on any organisation to achieve this for us.
To add strength and depth to the Army’s ministry, in 2007 its International Social Justice Commission was introduced4 (see also page 07 of the Youth Section of this book). Often linking with and through the United Nations and a host of other nongovernmental organisations, it works for ‘people everywhere’ to be able to access education, employment, shelter and food, as
rmy the book
the book
an international teaching resource
DESPAIR AND HOPE one rmy
one rmy
HOPE comes in a variety of ways and we hope for many things. It fills us with anticipation –something good may happen. Sometimes hope is as simple as expecting a happy day. Alternatively, when troubled by loss and tragedy, hope may be the only thing left to hold onto. To lose all hope is devastating. We can’t put a precise figure on how many people lose hope each day. Hope isn’t measurable. Nor is despair, but it leads to suicide after suicide. In 1907, William Booth, the Army’s Founder, was the first to introduce counselling services for people contemplating suicide7. Other organisations quickly sprung up. Those who have no hope, or feel they have no hope, should always be our business. Humankind moved into the 21st century with a growing trade in human trafficking8. Tricked into being traded for money, and trapped into captivity, more and more people – all made in the image of God – live in hopelessness. Children sold by their parents and women betraying other women, are just two aspects of a worldwide malaise in which powerful, unscrupulous dealers – usually men – wield terrifying, destructive power over vulnerable, despairing fellow humans. They crush every hope. The helplessness and hopelessness of those fleeing from wars, persecution and terror, have driven thousands to cram into unseaworthy boats and take their chances on the high seas. Already this century, tens of thousands have perished making desperate journeys. If they do make it to safe countries they face the gruelling prospect of being deported. Many, fearing for their lives, ask for asylum. The process can be soul-destroying. Proving you are a ‘genuine case’ demands every last drop of emotional
in hope
– despair and hope one
rmy the book
in hope despair and hope
energy. Hope is illusive. Help is essential. It doesn’t always come. One hopeful sign is the evidence of how friendship and support are increasingly being given. The Army knows the priceless worth of an advocate when injustice, terror and indifference seem to have won. It works tirelessly against human trafficking and to assist refugees, but more always needs to be done – everywhere.
It isn’t unusual for us to feel we are being punished by God when things wrong, but Jesus said this wasn’t the case (John 9:1-3). At times we have to accept the consequences of our own foolishness, but even then the Gospels show repeatedly that Jesus comes alongside those who need him in their darkest moments. He experienced darker moments on the Cross than we can imagine or understand. Taking all the sin of the world to himself – relieving us of our burden – he felt loneliness, betrayal, rejection and alienation from God to an unparalleled degree. He said so (Matthew 27:46) – and then died, holding on to faith (Luke 24:46).
He did so for us. He said so (John 3:16) – to bring us hope that need never be in vain. Following his resurrection, two of his followers – not recognising him – poured out their hearts to him. They spoke of their dashed hopes (Luke 24:20), but the great hope bringer was with them. In our darkest moments we too may fail to recognise him. But there are no hopeless cases for Jesus. He is with us. We are invited to discover this for ourselves and then be alert to help others discover it too.
In Discussion 1. Consider what it is like when someone loses all hope. Job 19:10, 11; Lamentations 3:18; Job 7:6 2. Consider reasons for human trafficking. How best can this evil industry in people’s lives be fought? Research what The Salvation Army is doing. Proverbs 3:29; Psalm 140:1-8; Genesis 37:19-36; Galatians 5:13, 14 3. Why do we sometimes feel we are being punished when things go wrong? What did Jesus say about this? John 9:1-3. See also Psalm 103:10-12 4. ‘There are no hopeless cases for Jesus.’ What does this mean? Matthew 1:21; 1 Timothy 1:15, 16; Luke 19:10; John 3:17; Psalm 42:5; 2 Corinthians 1:7; Colossians 2:6, 7; Hebrews 7:25
07
In Prayer In considering the despair of those who feel they have no hope, ask God to give you an understanding and love for those who most need us.
In presenting the plight of Job – an honourable man who lost all his family, goods and livestock, and was covered in sores – the Bible highlights the difficulty of holding on to faith when all seems lost. Job complained bitterly about God: ‘He tears me down on every side … he uproots my hope like a tree. His anger burns against me…’ (Job 19:10, 11). When you feel God has turned against you, all hope is lost. the book
an international teaching resource
one rmy
LIFE AND HOPE one rmy
for us who believe’ (v 19). He was speaking of a hope of eternal quality – one that makes a difference to our life here and now. It gives us an eternal perspective with which to view the uncertainties of life. Living in the light of eternity brings hope to life’s darkest moments. Highly-respected theologian, Tom Wright, describes the Christian hope as ‘not wishful thinking or mere blind optimism’. ‘It is,’ he says, ‘a mode of knowing, a mode within which new things are possible‘11. Only by
THE circumstances into which children are welcomed into the world are many and varied. Some are hardly welcomed at all. They are an immediate problem, not wanted, and not cared for. If they were capable of having hopes for themselves they would merely centre on survival. Alternatively – and thankfully – other children experience the warmth of love from their earliest days. They feel safe and secure, and begin to build up their own hopes for the future. Between these two extremes is a mixture of circumstances that determine early attitudes to life and have a bearing on where growing adults might dare to place their hopes. Nearer the end of life, hopes will have been realised or dashed. It is unlikely that anyone will have fulfilled every dream. Whether we welcome it or not, disappointment is a necessary emotion. To have each hope come true, or to achieve every ambition, would hinder us in becoming balanced in our thinking or understanding. Regret is another factor9. This comes in many forms. It may relate to hopes we had for our own conduct, only to discover we weren’t as good as we thought we were. We may have been hurt by others, or caused damage ourselves. In consequence, precious in hope
– life and hope one
rmy the book
in HOPE LIFE AND HOPE
hopes can disappear as the years go by. We are left to reflect on what might have been. Perhaps we should reflect more intentionally on what we ought to hope for. What should be our priorities? It isn’t wrong to hope for good things, or for success. It’s natural. But should our hopes go deeper? In the Introduction book of our One Army teaching, we took time to consider our ‘one life’ and ways in which it could be used. Now we are looking beyond this life, reflecting on its purpose and seeing where hope might take us10.
living in this hope, do we discover it to be ‘sure’ and ‘certain’ (Hebrews 11:1). God’s transforming presence does the confirming – ‘Christ in you, the hope of glory’ (Colossians 1:27). When the great teacher and pastor Bishop Lesslie Newbigin was asked whether he was optimistic or pessimistic about the future, he replied, ‘I am neither an optimist nor a pessimist. Jesus Christ is risen from the dead!’12. Our hope in Christ is everything.
In Discussion 1. What hopes have you had for your life? What are your hopes now? Which hopes matter most to you? Psalm 147:11; Proverbs 23:17, 18; 1 Timothy 6:17-19 2. What part has regret played in your life? In what ways does being a Christian help us deal with it? Matthew 26:69-75; Psalm 51:1-12; Luke 15:17-19; Luke 15:18-32; 1 John 1:9, 10 3. Paul spoke of Christian hope being of eternal quality. What does this mean for this life and the next? Titus 1:1-3; 1 Peter 1:3-5; 1 Peter 1:21; Colossians 1:27 4. Christian hope has been described as ‘not wishful thinking or mere blind optimism’. Why? Romans 5:5; Ephesians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 15:16-22; 1 Corinthians 13:13
09
In Prayer Pray that Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians, found in chapter 1:18, may be answered fully in your life.
In his letter to Titus, the apostle Paul spoke of our ‘faith and knowledge resting on the hope of eternal life’ (1:2). To the Ephesians he wrote: ‘I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he (God) has called you’ (1:18). Paul described that hope as ‘the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power the book
an international teaching resource
JUDGEMENT AND HOPE one rmy
one rmy
IN our busy everyday world, the prospect of life after death can easily be overlooked. Preoccupation with matters of the moment – food, shelter, clothing, comfort, work, salary, friendships – detracts from giving time to eternity. Only when someone’s death forces us to accept its inevitability are our thoughts guided towards what happens next. Yet Scripture has constant references to eternity, and countless Salvation Army songs, from the beginning, have guided our hearts towards Heaven. Both Scripture and songs have much to say about judgement too – a subject many try to avoid or dismiss13. The story of the rich man and Lazarus, told in Luke’s Gospel (16:19-31), draws attention to there being a time of reckoning. The rich man, living in sumptuous splendour, had given no thought for the beggar left each day at the gate of his mansion, covered in sores. When both died, the beggar found himself experiencing divine joy and comfort. The rich man found himself in ‘torment’. Still thinking only of his own importance he asked Abraham to ‘send Lazarus’ to relieve his agony with some water. Abraham indicated that this couldn’t be done. There was a ‘great chasm’ between the two places. Besides, the rich man was reaping the consequences of his uncaring, self-centred life. But the rich man persisted and asked that Abraham might at least ‘send Lazarus’ back to earth to warn his five (presumably also
in hope
– judgement and hope one
rmy the book
in hope judgement and hope
self-centred) brothers. The request was again denied. His brothers already had access to Scripture and its instruction for godly living. If they were set on disregarding it, they would hardly take notice of a beggar with a message! The message of the story is strong and clear. What we do in this life has a bearing on the next. In the Parable of the sheep and the goats, Jesus said that when we either help or ignore people who are sick, in want, hungry or thirsty, or needing clothes, it is the same as either helping or ignoring him (Matthew 25:42, 43). Jesus identified himself totally with those in need. Who we identify with is our choice. The consequences go with our choice.
severely to those who damaged the hopes and lives of innocent children. His words were strong and far-reaching (Luke 17:1-3). Statistics show that a high percentage of women who become prostitutes were abused as children. They were damaged early, suffering distorted understanding of relationships. We shouldn’t be surprised that Jesus told complacent religious leaders that the prostitutes were ‘entering the kingdom of heaven ahead of you’ (Matthew 21:31). We have no reason to think he didn’t mean it. In fact, his warnings to those in authority were frequent and uncompromising (Matthew 23:15, 33). He even indicated that people who had seemed
to do great works in his name, but who were ‘wolves in sheep’s clothing’, would not be welcomed into Heaven (Matthew 7:15-22). If ever we are tempted to trust in our own goodness, or compare ourselves with others, Jesus warned against judging others. If you do so, you will receive the same judgement, he warned (Matthew 7:1, 2). Far better for us all to remember to put our trust in the great love that took Jesus to the Cross and the grace he offers – and that alone. If we do, we will have the joy of discovering that the judgement throne of God is also the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16). Hallelujah!
In Discussion 1. Imagine a world in which there is no accountability or judgement. Imagine this in an eternal sense. Judges 17:6; Judges 21:25; Isaiah 5:20, 21 2. The story of the rich man and Lazarus shows how humans have a way of ignoring, disregarding or avoiding God’s words of command and guidance. Why does this happen? Luke 16:19-31; 2 Timothy 4:1-5 3. Jesus constantly identified himself with those in need. How well or often do we do the same? Matthew 9:10-13; Matthew 25:31-46; Hebrews 4:15 4. ‘The judgement throne of God is also the throne of grace.’ What does this mean for everyone – especially in relation to hope? Hebrews 4:16; Romans 2:13-16; John 5:28-30
11
In Prayer Pray that you will live in such a way as to be accountable to God, thanking him also for his grace.
The concept of Heaven and Hell is taken for granted in Scripture14. Jesus gave both encouragement and warnings. He spoke the book
an international teaching resource
one rmy
new zealand
in culture
christina tyson, a SALVATION ARMY OFFICER, WRITEs about her HOME COUNTRY THE Salvation Army arrived in New Zealand in response to the desperate hopes of two individuals. New Zealand was in the grip of one of the worst depressions in its history, with high unemployment, poverty and crime, when Miss Arabella Valpy, the Presbyterian daughter of a prominent South Island businessman, wrote to William Booth asking him to ‘send to the rescue of perishing souls’ in her city. At the same time, John Brame, a printer who lived at the other end of the country, urged Booth to send officers to the colony. Booth responded by sending two young men: Captain George Pollard (20 years of age) and Lieutenant Edward Wright (21), with the pair holding their first open-air meeting in 1883. Large crowds were quickly attracted and by the 1890s the Army was serving in every New Zealand town with a population of more than 2,000. Focused on mission Since 1984, the Salvation Army’s ministry in New Zealand has centred on its mission statement: caring for people, transforming lives, reforming society by God’s power. Hope is
at its heart. Those who first developed these words were charged to produce a ‘get-outof-bed mission statement’ that captured the business of the Army in the country – a statement that would fire up all Salvationists, not just once, but daily. This same mission statement now provides direction for the territory’s Strategic Mission Plan, first launched in 2006. The current plan calls the Army to be mission focused, connected and streamlined in the pursuit of four strategic goals: 1. To make disciples, 2. Increase soldiers, 3. Fight injustice, 4. Develop leaders.
13
Of course, the challenge is to inspire Salvationists to see the privileged opportunity these many community engagements present.
As well as its many corps-based activities, The Salvation Army also serves the community through welfare provision, housing, addiction treatment, services for ex-prisoners, care for the elderly, employment support and disaster response. Of course, the challenge is to inspire Salvationists to see the privileged opportunity these many community engagements present. To recognise they are in hope– in culture
one rmy the book
the book
an international teaching resource
one rmy
in culture not only ‘saved to serve’, but ‘saved to save’. To engage around a unified, holistic mission: to meet human need and share the story of salvation through Jesus Christ. An open door to hope When people first heard The Salvation Army was on its way to New Zealand, one newspaper protested that it would prove ‘a nuisance’, as troublesome as other introduced pests like ‘the thistles, the sparrows, the rabbits’ and just as impossible to eradicate. But others encouraged people to treat the Army with respect, because it was reaching those beyond the reach of traditional churches. An example of this reach is the Army’s work with the Notorious chapter of the Mongrel Mob gang. Since 2009, the Army has been engaged in a partnership with gang members who want to battle methamphetamine addiction and provide a better future for their families. When no other door would open to the gang, The Salvation Army gave these men hope – a chance to change. Together, they created a unique rehabilitation programme that includes a six-week camp for gang members and their families. Success rates are encouraging, with 86 per cent staying clean six months after the programme, and 55 per cent still clean a year on. in hope– in culture
one rmy the book
The Salvation Army in New Zealand has certainly fulfilled both the hopes and fears expressed in the late 1800s. Through more than 130 years, it has indeed rescued those in desperate need. The Salvation Army in New Zealand has certainly fulfilled both the hopes and fears expressed in the late 1800s. Through more than 130 years, it has indeed rescued those in desperate need. And by doing so, it has become a trusted part of the social and spiritual fabric of the nation. The fear that The Salvation Army would eventually be impossible to eradicate from the New Zealand landscape has also become reality. Most would thank God for that, as the Army advances its mission to care for people, transform lives and reform society by God’s power.
culture in context: 1. Do you know what or who motivated The Salvation Army to start work in your country? 2. Is the Army in your country losing its ability to mobilise the young people in its ranks? 3. If you were to summarise the mission of the Army in just 10 words, what words would you choose? 4. Are you aware of (or concerned by) a gap between social services and Salvation Army faith communities? 5. If The Salvation Army was to disappear from your country, what difference would this make?
the book
15
an international teaching resource
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES one rmy
one rmy
What resources would you add? Let us know by emailing OneArmy@salvationarmy.org or visit www.salvationarmy.org/ onearmy/resources
The introductory discussion points, Bible readings and prayers help put the series into the context of each life and individual understanding. The Leader’s Manual has further suggestions as to how these opportunities for growth may be developed.
@TSAOneArmy This unit relates in part to doctrines 6 and 9, and to doctrine 11
referenced resources for This unit
recommended resources for The Series books for the Series The Holy Bible The Salvation Army Handbook of Doctrine, Salvation Books, IHQ The Salvation Army in the Body of Christ: An Ecclesiological Statement, Salvation Books, IHQ The Salvation Army Year Book, Salvation Books, IHQ The Song Book of The Salvation Army, IHQ Called to be God’s People – based on the Calls of the International Spiritual Life Commission, Salvation Books, IHQ Samuel Logan Brengle: Heart for God, edited by Peter Farthing, Australia Eastern Territory Holiness Unwrapped, Salvation Books, IHQ and Australia Eastern Territory The Life and Ministry of William Booth, Roger J. Green, Abingdon Press, Nashville, TN, USA Who are These Salvationists? An Analysis for the 21st Century, Shaw Clifton, Crest Books, The Salvation Army, Alexandria, VA, USA Some of these books are available in a number of languages. dvds for the Series Called to be God’s People – based on the Calls of the International Spiritual Life Commission, Salvation Books, IHQ Holiness Unwrapped, IHQ and Australia Eastern Territory Our People – The remarkable story of William and Catherine Booth and The Salvation Army, Australia Eastern Territory Boundless Salvation, four-part series by John Cleary, Australia Southern Territory
additional resources
one rmy the book
17
books for this unit For more detail see Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes, Chapter 12, ‘The Inauguration of Jesus’ Ministry’, Kenneth E. Bailey, SPCK. 2 Many Army books relate to its mission to the poor from its inception. The Life and Ministry of William Booth, by Roger Green, Abingdon Press, is a modern retelling. See Chapter 7, ‘The Beginning of a Mission’. 3 The Salvation Army Year Book, IHQ, annually gives up-to-date statistics. 4 Fuller details can be found at www.salvationarmy.org/isjc 5 Fuller details can be found at www.salvoslegal.com.au 6 Salvos Legal: Stories from the Courtyard, is published by Carpenter Media, Australia Eastern Territory. 7 See www.salvationarmy.org.uk/history-social-work 8 Fuller details on the Army’s anti-trafficking work can be found on the IHQ website at www.salvationarmy.org/antitrafficking 9 Chapter 11 of Love – Right at the Heart, Robert Street, Salvation Books, IHQ, takes ‘Love and Regrets’ as its subject. 10 Chapter 11 of The Salvation Army Handbook of Doctrine introduces ‘The Christian Hope’ on page 223. Pages 228, 230 and 253 also add teaching on hope that transcends the border between life and death. 11 See Surprised by Hope, Tom Wright, SPCK. 12 Quoted in Chapter 6 of Surprised by Hope, Tom Wright, SPCK. 13 The Salvation Army Handbook of Doctrine gives teaching on ‘Judgement’ in Chapter 11, page 227. 14 The Salvation Army Handbook of Doctrine gives teaching on ‘Heaven and Hell’ in Chapter 11, page 227. 1
additional resources
one rmy the book
rmy one {
youth book
in hope
}
Note to youth leaders This material can be delivered in a single session. However, by using the additional resources listed at the end, or those recommended on the website, it can be extended over more sessions. We haven’t included suggested timings because much will depend on the age, understanding and size of each group. For some of the activities in the series, advanced preparation and materials are required. See also the Leader’s Manual for other ideas that could be adapted.
one rmy
icebreaker and
discussion starter
inhopenotes
materials NEEDED PAPER AND PENS
inHOPE JESUSANDHOPE JESUS is the greatest bringer of hope in the history of humankind. He not only announced that God’s good news was for all people (without exception) but became the message itself by offering salvation through his life, death and resurrection. He was and still is the great hope giver (see page 02 of the main book). Ask for a volunteer from your group who is willing to take on a challenge! Tell them they have 20 seconds to do as many press-ups or standing jumps as they can. Before you start the timer, ask the volunteer how many they hope to do. See if they can match or exceed their hopes. Allow everyone the opportunity to have a go.
in hope
– jesus and hope one
rmy youth book
03
What do you hope for in your life? Take enough time to think about it then write down on a piece of paper the three things you hope for the most. Have a time of sharing and discuss some of the following questions: Was it easy to list the things you hope for? How did you decide what was most important? Are the things you hope for just about you or do they involve others? Do others have similar hopes? Why is it important to think about what we hope for? How does your relationship with Jesus shape the hopes you have? In what sense is Jesus ‘our hope’ (1 Timothy 1:1)? youth book
an international teaching resource
one rmy
bible
discussion
inhopenotes
materials NEEDED LARGE SHEET OF PAPER, PEN
inHOPE THESALVATIONARMY ANDHOPE THE Salvation Army was born to bring hope. From the early days of the movement Salvationists adopted ways to support those most in need and to testify to the hope that can be found in Jesus. Today, in every territory, The Salvation Army is developing new programmes improving physical, social, moral and spiritual health that aim to bring hope where there is no hope (see page 04 of the main book).
05
Now discuss these questions: What is the message of hope that we should bring to others through our lives and Salvation Army activities? How does this message of hope have spiritual, physical and social dimensions? What more could you do to bring hope to the lives of people in your community?
Try listing on a large sheet of paper as many initiatives as you can think of that The Salvation Army is involved with. Think as broadly as you can from corps programmes, to education, social services, health and social justice. Now consider why we do that work. Take a look at the Bible verses listed below and think together about how they relate to the activities on your list. Luke 4:16-21; Proverbs 31:8-9; Matthew 25:31-46; 1 Peter 3:15
in hope
– the salvation army and hope one
rmy youth book
youth book
an international teaching resource
one rmy
activity
inhope
THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMISSION The Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Commission works so that people everywhere can have: Education Employment Shelter and food Access to government and social services.
inhope despairandhope TO lose all hope is devastating. Those who have no hope, or feel they have no hope, should always be our business. In our darkest moments we too may fail to recognise Jesus. But there are no hopeless cases for him. He is with us. We are invited to discover this for ourselves and then be alert to help others discover it too (see page 06 of the main book). Do some research about two international Salvation Army initiatives that aim to respond to despair with hope: anti-human trafficking and the International Social Justice Commission. There is more information on the page opposite. If you have access to the Internet, you can find lots of material and resources on the International Headquarters website: www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/antitrafficking www.salvationarmy.org/isjc You can also research by speaking with others in your corps and discovering what they know. Alternatively, contact your in hope
– despair and hope one
rmy youth book
territorial or regional headquarters for more information. You may like to split into two groups for your research and prepare a presentation for the other group. Consider these questions as you prepare: What are the issues with which The Salvation Army is helping? What action is The Salvation Army taking? In which of these ways is The Salvation Army bringing hope? How does this initiative reflect the biblical verses that were discussed earlier? What can you and your group do to support this work?
It helps people develop their God-given capacities: Intellectually Morally Spiritually. 07
It assists them to live in: Functional families Supportive communities A social order that protects human rights. It wants people to be given dignity and be able to reach their personal potential. It works in Jesus’ name to do Jesus’ will. (This information is based on the introduction to the book When Justice is the Measure.) what is human trafficking? A simple definition: Human trafficking is a crime in which men, women, teenagers and children are taken from places of safety, usually by force, fraud or coercion, for the purposes of being made to do things they do not want to do. The Salvation Army, alongside other agencies, works to stop this happening and to rescue and bring healing to those who have been harmed in mind, spirit or body.
After sharing and discussing your research, spend some time in prayer, asking God to bring hope to the lives of all those who face despair. youth book
an international teaching resource
one rmy
prayers
and reflection
inhopenotes
materials NEEDED PAPER AND PENS
inhope lifeandhope THE circumstances of our lives influence the hopes that we have for ourselves and the world. As young people we can have all sorts of hopes and dreams for the future. Perhaps we should reflect more intentionally on what we ought to hope for. What should our priorities be? (See page 08 of the main book.) Read out loud together Ephesians 1:18-19a: ‘I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe’ (NIV).
in hope
– life and hope one
rmy youth book
09
Now spend a few moments of quiet reflection asking God to open ‘the eyes of your heart’ and respond by writing down a series of hopes for your life in the list below: A hope for myself: A hope for my family: A hope for my corps/centre: A hope for my community: A hope for my country: A hope for the world: When your list is complete, spend a few minutes incorporating your hopes into a short written prayer. Take time to read your prayers aloud to one another and shouting a big ‘Amen’ together at the end.
youth book
an international teaching resource
one rmy
creative worship
idea
inhopenotes
materials NEEDED LARGE SHEET OF PAPER, PEN
inhopE
judgementandhope OUR hopes are not simply contained to this life. The Bible has constant references to eternity and a future hope of life beyond death. Jesus gave both encouragement and warnings, and spoke of a judgement to come. Let us remember to put our trust in the great love that took Jesus to the cross and the grace he offers. Spend some time talking together about how our hope of the future life that awaits us should impact and change the way we live on earth now. You may like to write a few of the ideas down on a piece of paper that everyone can see. Now answer this question individually: What one thing should I change in my life, as a result of this discussion today?
in hope
– judgement and hope one
11
Finish the time with some celebratory prayer and worship. Listen to or sing a song that speaks of God’s hope for the future life. There are many in the Salvation Army song book, or choose another song that your group knows well. Ensure that you close the time with some prayer, thanking God for the hope of heaven.
rmy youth book
youth book
an international teaching resource
one rmy
inhopenotes
homework
notes
one rmy youth book
further bible study
Homework: Decide on one of these two ideas: 1. Think of someone in your corps who is bringing hope through their words and actions – perhaps through visiting the sick, feeding the hungry, supporting the homeless or speaking out boldly about injustice. Ask them some of these questions: what is the motivation for your actions? What effect does hope have in the lives of those you are ministering to? How can I pray for you? Write down what you discover and think about how their example inspires you. 2. Take a look at the photos below of a Salvation Army box of matches from the 1890s. Look carefully at the text on the box and note that it says ‘a ray of hope for the match workers’. The ‘Lights in Darkest England’ project is a wonderful story from our history about how The Salvation Army identified an issue in the community and worked to bring about change. You can find out what happened in this short film made by the UK Territory: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGmv9q6j2tg. Think about the various elements of the story – how were the issues identified? What action did The Salvation Army take? What change happened over time? What part did ‘hope’ play? Finally, consider what this story inspires you to do in today’s world. Are there injustices that you should fight for? What practical steps can you to take to bring hope?
youth book
13
an international teaching resource
have you looked at ... the ‘In Culture’ feature on pages 12-15 of the main book?
homework
further bible study
Further Bible study material: The Bible records that Jesus often spent time with those who appear to have lost hope in this life – the poor, the sick, the oppressed and the outsiders. Take a look at some of these stories: Matthew 20:29-34; Mark 1:40-42; Luke 15:1-7; John 8:1-11; John 4:1-42 Now think about these questions: 1. What does Jesus do to offer hope? What does he say to offer hope? 2. Who are the people in your neighbourhood who appear to be without hope? How do you feel about them? 3. How does Jesus’ example inspire you to offer hope to others where you live?
14
recommended resources for The series books The Bible The Salvation Army Year Book, Salvation Books, IHQ What and Why We Believe, Harry Dean, Salvation Books, IHQ From Generation to Generation, Robert and Janet Street, Salvation Books, IHQ The Life and Ministry of William Booth, Roger Green, Abingdon Press Never the Same Again, Shaw Clifton, Crest Books The Common People’s Gospel, Gunpei Yamamuro, Salvation Books, IHQ Holiness Unwrapped, IHQ and Australia Eastern Territory Born Again In The Spirit, Kapela Ntoya, Salvation Books, IHQ
ONE ARMY – THE SERIES one rmy
additionalresources
one rmy
DVD Our People – The Remarkable Story of William and Catherine Booth and The Salvation Army, Australia Eastern Territory this unit The General Next to God, Crest Books @TSAOneArmy Check with your own territorial or command headquarters for youth resources to add to this list. What resources would you add? Let us know by emailing OneArmy@salvationarmy.org or visit www.salvationarmy.org/ onearmy/resources Don’t forget that more ideas are in the Leader’s Manual. Some books are available in different languages. Please ask.
homework
an international teaching resource
additional resources
one rmy youth book