Even in the Law of Moses, we can see that the Lord’s greatest concern was the hearts of his followers, more than their outward religious observances. We also look at the importance of having a realistic view of ourselves, loving God as He describes love (much more than just a warm feeling), and loving the
In this encouraging psalm, David reveals the Lord as the One who guards those who fear Him. He alone can shield and protect us when we are being assaulted in this life. This psalm also has one verse that many early Christian writers saw as revealing the mystery of Word of God (Christ) to us
In Genesis 1 we learn that God created man in His image. Over the centuries, Christians have wrestled with what this means and the implications for our lives. This lesson explores how we are made in God's image and what is our role in conforming to the image. Teaching Notes The Image of God -
In this chapter we are introduced to three timeless themes. First, God tests people with affliction to see what is in their hearts. He did it to Israel in the Wilderness; we should expect Him to test His people today. Second, the Lord reveals why He fed Israel with manna: that His people (then and
In this chapter, Moses warns God's people not to make covenants or intermarry with those who live in the land they are about to inherit. Here, we see a picture of what it means to be holy, set apart for God's special purposes, and the promised blessings to those who live holy lives. This lesson addresses Christians marrying
Here we are introduced to what Jesus would later call "the greatest commandment": to love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength. As we will see, it is a much higher calling than simply being religious and avoiding major sin! This text also provides key instruction on training our children, not putting God
In the second Psalm, the kings of the earth are told to "serve the Lord with fear and rejoice in Him with trembling." If you look for it, you will see a similar theme throughout the Old and New Testaments. This lesson explores how we embrace both the healthy fear and genuine joy God desires,
In Deuteronomy 5, the Lord descends on Mount Sinai, speaking to the people from the midst of fire, completely terrifying them. Was fear a good motivation for God to use? Did Jesus use the fear of God to motivate His followers? This lesson makes the case that the healthy fear of God has always been foundational
In this lesson we focus on some of the more difficult and counter-cultural commandments: honoring our parents, being truthful always (no false witness or deceit), and not lusting after our neighbor's spouse or possessions. In the Ten Commandments, we see that God has always been deeply concerned about sins of the heart. Teaching Notes Deuteronomy
The Ten Commandments - Part 2 of 2 (Deuteronomy 5:16-22) View Lesson
The Ten Commandments - Part 2 of 2 (Deuteronomy 5:16-22) View Lesson
Moses now recounts the story of the Lord initially giving the Ten Commandments. We consider the spiritual wreckage caused by the violation of the second commandment, not to make images of God. We also consider whether Christians should keep the Sabbath, or is there something else the Sabbath points to for those who follow Jesus? Teaching Notes Deuteronomy
The Ten Commandments - Part 1 of 2 (Deuteronomy 5:1-15) View Lesson
The Ten Commandments - Part 1 of 2 (Deuteronomy 5:1-15) View Lesson