News Archive
Who Are the Prophets? 06/20/2008
Many of you in Race 1 are well into the prophets and have gotten to know Isaiah and Jeremiah really well. Those of you who are running Race 2 will soon meet prophets such as Samuel and Elijah. Prophets are responsible for delivering God's message and holding God's people accountable for how they act toward God and one another.
Many of you in Race 1 are well into the prophets and have gotten to know Isaiah and Jeremiah really well. Those of you who are running Race 2 will soon meet prophets such as Samuel and Elijah. Prophets are responsible for delivering God's message and holding God's people accountable for how they act toward God and one another.
Who are the prophets today? Who are the people who motivate us to do the work God has called us to do, alert us to the problems in our communities and world, and reprimand us when we act in ways that are contrary to God's will?At a time when so many people are struggling financially and so many communities have been ravaged by natural disasters, we especially need prophets to help us stay focused on what truly matters to God.
Write in your race blog about some current-day prophets whom you've witnessed.
Leg 4, Week 5 Fast Forward Is OK Now 06/13/2008
Earlier this week the Leg 4, Week 5 Fast Forward had been incorrectly labeled a Daily Quiz, meaning that there was no way to upload your work. We've fixed the problem, and everything should be working fine. Sorry for any incovenience this caused.
Earlier this week the Leg 4, Week 5 Fast Forward had been incorrectly labeled a Daily Quiz, meaning that there was no way to upload your work. We've fixed the problem, and everything should be working fine. Sorry for any incovenience this caused.
Summer Reading 06/06/2008
Do you have any summer reading assignments from school? If so, have you already started on them? Have you made a schedule for completing the books you've been assigned? Will you wait until the week before school starts?
Do you have any summer reading assignments from school? If so, have you already started on them? Have you made a schedule for completing the books you've been assigned? Will you wait until the week before school starts?
Here's another question: How will the Amazing Bible Race fit into your summer reading plans?
If you've been running the race for a while, you should be used to setting aside time each day to read. And since you have to take quizzes on each day's reading, you should be in the habit of making sure you understand what you read. Think about how you can apply the habits and disciplines you've developed by running the Amazing Bible Race to your summer reading assignments from school.
Do Not Say, "I'm Only a Boy (or a Girl)" 06/02/2008
Today, some of you will be beginning the book of Jeremiah, which opens with Jeremiah's call. When God tells Jeremiah that he has been "appointed a prophet to the nations," Jeremiah answers, "Truly I do not know how to speak, for I am only a boy." God then tells the prophet, "Do not say, 'I am only a boy" and explains Jeremiah's first assignment.
Never assume that, as a teenager, you can't make a difference. God calls people of all ages to do all kinds of important work. As you get started on Jeremiah, consider the following stories of young people who have responded to God's call:
Today, some of you will be beginning the book of Jeremiah, which opens with Jeremiah's call. When God tells Jeremiah that he has been "appointed a prophet to the nations," Jeremiah answers, "Truly I do not know how to speak, for I am only a boy." God then tells the prophet, "Do not say, 'I am only a boy" and explains Jeremiah's first assignment.
Never assume that, as a teenager, you can't make a difference. God calls people of all ages to do all kinds of important work. As you get started on Jeremiah, consider the following stories of young people who have responded to God's call:
- Teen's CD Raises Money, Awareness After Katrina (United Methodist News Service)
- Teen Collects "Huggable Friends" for Tsunami Survivors (UMC.org)
- Meet Zach Hunter, the Teenage Abolishionist (Christianity Today)
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The new movie The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian is about restoring justice and righteousness to a nation that has been led astray by corrupt leaders. Sound familiar? If you've completed Leg 2 or started Leg 4 it should.
If you see Prince Caspian (or, better yet, if you read the original C.S. Lewis novel on which the movie is based) compare the story of Narnia to the story of Israel and Judah in the Bible. Make note of how characters in the film (Caspian, the Pevensie kids, Miraz, and so forth) are similar to biblical persons (Josiah, Nehemiah, Isaiah, Ahab, and so forth). Write about these comparisons on your race blog.
Try Your Hand 03/12/2008
The psalms this week speak of who God is.
How would you describe God in your own psalm?
Try writing a psalm or two in the style of those you've read this week. Post it on your blog.
The psalms this week speak of who God is.
How would you describe God in your own psalm?
Try writing a psalm or two in the style of those you've read this week. Post it on your blog.
Consider This 03/08/2008
Now that you've finished studying Job, how would you interpret this passage of Scripture: Exodus 2:23b-25?
With your team, discuss:
Read Romans 8:26-27. How do you fit in this passage with your readings in Job?
What impact has the Amazing Bible Race had on your understanding of prayer thus far?
Blog about your discussions and thoughts.
Now that you've finished studying Job, how would you interpret this passage of Scripture: Exodus 2:23b-25?
With your team, discuss:
- To whom were the Israelites praying?
- What was the form of prayer?
- Was the prayer answered? Why?
- What would Elihu and Job think of their prayer? (Reread Job 34-35.)
Read Romans 8:26-27. How do you fit in this passage with your readings in Job?
What impact has the Amazing Bible Race had on your understanding of prayer thus far?
Blog about your discussions and thoughts.
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Christians around the world are being persecuted for their faith. Visit these websites to learn more about what is happening and how you can get involved:
Amnesty International
International Justice Mission
Voice of the Martyrs
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Watch this music video from Nicole C. Mullen:
Redeemer by Nicole C. Mullen on You Tube
"Redeemer" (Word, 2000) is based on passages from Job. Listen to the words and watch the video. Find the Scripture references in the Word.
Discuss in your team what it really means to know that your Redeemer lives.
Blog about your discussion and your impressions of Job's story after having watched the video.
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Learn more about Christian human suffering:
Foxe's Book of Martyrs, John Foxe
The Hiding Place, Corrie ten Boom
Through Gates of Splendor, Elisabeth Elliot
The End of the Spear is a dramatized version of the book, Through Gates of Splendor.
Beyond the Gates of Splendor is a documentary based on the book.
Visit Persecution.org from International Christian Concern to read more about suffering and persecution of Christians throughout the world.
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Today you begin the study of the book of Job. The main character's trials can be difficult to grasp.
As you make your way through the first few chapters of the book, supplement your readings with music. Many songs based on Job have been written and recorded. Listen to Cindy Morgan's "Job" on the album, Streams (Sony, 1999), or Brent Bourgeois' "Blessed Be the Name" on the album, Come Join the Living World (Reunion, 1995).
How do the songs add to your reading of Job?
Post thoughts on your blog.
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Today you begin the book of Esther. What an intriguing book of the Bible, which is the story of a young girl who saves her people!
For a fun activity, watch the Veggie Tales version of the book of Esther. Compare the animated version with the biblical version. After reading the book and watching the movie, what new insight do you have about your own faith, about the character of God, about those who follow Christ?
Blog your thoughts.
Another one down! 01/25/2008
Can you believe what a great job you're doing? We're so proud of you for reading through the Scripture!
Can you believe what a great job you're doing? We're so proud of you for reading through the Scripture!
You've finished the last of the Old Testament's numbered books.
On now to Ezra, where you'll read of God's people returning home once again and rebuilding the Temple in Jerusalem.
Way to Go! 01/18/2008
You've finished another book of the Bible. Did you ever think you'd get this far?
You've finished another book of the Bible. Did you ever think you'd get this far?
We're so proud of your commitment to the Race.
Keep going! On to 2 Chronicles!
Racing Tip 01/14/2008
Today's Racing Tip is printed on page 78 of the Runner's Reader.
Today's Racing Tip is printed on page 78 of the Runner's Reader.
You are welcome to read today's chapters in their entirety; but for your sanity's sake, feel free to skim them, making note of the points we've highlighted on page 79 of the Runner's Reader.
Mystery Man 01/10/2008
Who is the "man of God" spoken of in 2 Kings 23:17?
Who is the "man of God" spoken of in 2 Kings 23:17?
Read through 2 Kings 23:15-18 along with 1 Kings 13. What do you notice about the two passages? What does fulfilled prophecy mean to you in the grand scheme of the Bible's story? What does this say to you about the dangers of idol worship?
Post your thoughts on your blog.
Study the King of Kings 01/03/2008
As you study the kings this week, read through Matthew 1:1-17 (the geneaology of Jesus). Pay particular attention to verses 7 through 11. Compare the kings mentioned there with the kings about whom you've been reading. (Isn't it cool to see some familiar names in the New Testament?) Which ones were men of God? Which ones disobeyed God?
As you study the kings this week, read through Matthew 1:1-17 (the geneaology of Jesus). Pay particular attention to verses 7 through 11. Compare the kings mentioned there with the kings about whom you've been reading. (Isn't it cool to see some familiar names in the New Testament?) Which ones were men of God? Which ones disobeyed God?
What do you think about the inclusion of not-so-good-guys in Jesus' background? As you think about the kings, consider also the inclusion of Tamar, Rahab, and Bathsheba. What do you know about these women?
Post your thoughts on your blog. Discuss with your team the importance of these specific persons being mentioned in Matthew 1.
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Tell all your friends who'd like to get in on the Amazing Bible Race action: a second official race begins March 1, 2008.
Read all about it from the Home page link.
We'll see you at the starting line in March!
Hurdle for Week 6 Day 3 (Rulers of Israel and Judah) 01/02/2008
Beginning with 1 Kings 12, the rulers for Israel (I) and Judah (J) are named throughout Scripture. In order, they are as follows:
1. Rehoboam (J)-17 years
2. Jeroboam I (I)-22 years
3. Abijah (J)-3 years
4. Asa (J)-41 years
5. Nadab (I)-2 years
6. Baasha (I)-24 years
7. Elah (I)-2 years
8. Zimri (I)-7 days
9. Tibni (I)-5 years
10. Omri (I)-12 years
11. Ahab (I)-22 years
12. Jehoshaphat (J)-25 years
13. Ahaziah (I)-2 years
14. Joram (I)-12 years
15. Jehoram (J)-8 years
16. Ahaziah (J)-1 year
17. Jehu (I)-28 years
18. Athaliah (J)-7 years
19. Joash (J)-40 years
20. Jehoahaz (I)-17 years
21. Jehoash (I)-16 years
22. Amaziah (J)-29 years
23. Jeroboam II (I)-41 years
24. Azariah (J)-52 years
25. Zechariah (I)-6 months
26. Shallum (I)-1 month
27. Menahem (I)-10 years
28. Pekahiah (I)-2 years
29. Pekah (I)-20 years
30. Jotham (J)-16 years
31. Ahaz (J)-16 years
32. Hoshea (I)-9 years
33. Hezekiah (J)-29 years
34. Manasseh (J)-55 years
35. Amon (J)-2 years
36. Josiah (J)-31 years
37. Jehoahaz (J)-3 months
38. Jehoiakim (J)-11 years
39. Jehoiachin (J)-3 months
40. Zedekiah (J)-11 years
Beginning with 1 Kings 12, the rulers for Israel (I) and Judah (J) are named throughout Scripture. In order, they are as follows:
1. Rehoboam (J)-17 years
2. Jeroboam I (I)-22 years
3. Abijah (J)-3 years
4. Asa (J)-41 years
5. Nadab (I)-2 years
6. Baasha (I)-24 years
7. Elah (I)-2 years
8. Zimri (I)-7 days
9. Tibni (I)-5 years
10. Omri (I)-12 years
11. Ahab (I)-22 years
12. Jehoshaphat (J)-25 years
13. Ahaziah (I)-2 years
14. Joram (I)-12 years
15. Jehoram (J)-8 years
16. Ahaziah (J)-1 year
17. Jehu (I)-28 years
18. Athaliah (J)-7 years
19. Joash (J)-40 years
20. Jehoahaz (I)-17 years
21. Jehoash (I)-16 years
22. Amaziah (J)-29 years
23. Jeroboam II (I)-41 years
24. Azariah (J)-52 years
25. Zechariah (I)-6 months
26. Shallum (I)-1 month
27. Menahem (I)-10 years
28. Pekahiah (I)-2 years
29. Pekah (I)-20 years
30. Jotham (J)-16 years
31. Ahaz (J)-16 years
32. Hoshea (I)-9 years
33. Hezekiah (J)-29 years
34. Manasseh (J)-55 years
35. Amon (J)-2 years
36. Josiah (J)-31 years
37. Jehoahaz (J)-3 months
38. Jehoiakim (J)-11 years
39. Jehoiachin (J)-3 months
40. Zedekiah (J)-11 years
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Happy 2008! What are your resolutions this new year? How will 2008 be different from 2007?
In at least one area, you're already on your way to success. You have completed Bible readings through 1 Kings. We are so proud of you! Many adults resolve each new year to read the Bible daily or read the Bible in a year, only to quit a few weeks into their resolution.
We know you'll have a great year as you continue to hide God's Word in your heart each day.
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Do your prayers resemble at all Solomon's prayer in 1 Kings 8? As you study his prayer today, consider what you can learn about your own prayer habits. What can you take from Solomon's prayer and apply to your own life?
Think about re-committing yourself to a focused prayer time. Consider praying with a partner at a set time every week. Your team may want to do a study on prayer. Keeping a prayer journal is always a fruitful discipline.
Blog about your thoughts and tell your prayer requests to others. Record your prayers for others on your blog.
Pleasing God 12/25/2007
First Kings 7:22 says, "On the tops of the pillars was lily-work." Who was going to see beautiful decorations on the tops of the 30-foot-tall pillars? Only God. Solomon placed this ornamentation there just to please God.
Do you do something that nobody else will ever know about just because it pleases God?
What do you need to stop doing because it does not please God?
Consider the first question and answer to the Westminster Shorter Catechism.
Question: What is the chief end of man?
Answer: Man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever.
Is pleasing God your chief end? How do you glorify, enjoy, and please God right now? How will you glorify, enjoy, and please God forever?
Post your thoughts on your blog.
adapted from today's Racing Tip on page 50 of the Runner's Reader
First Kings 7:22 says, "On the tops of the pillars was lily-work." Who was going to see beautiful decorations on the tops of the 30-foot-tall pillars? Only God. Solomon placed this ornamentation there just to please God.
Do you do something that nobody else will ever know about just because it pleases God?
What do you need to stop doing because it does not please God?
Consider the first question and answer to the Westminster Shorter Catechism.
Question: What is the chief end of man?
Answer: Man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever.
Is pleasing God your chief end? How do you glorify, enjoy, and please God right now? How will you glorify, enjoy, and please God forever?
Post your thoughts on your blog.
adapted from today's Racing Tip on page 50 of the Runner's Reader
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Seinfeld fans may recall a reference to Solomon's brilliantly wise and just ruling in 1 Kings 3:16-28 from the television show's seventh season.
"The Seven" featured a dispute between Kramer and Elaine over the ownership of a bicycle. In Solomon-like arbitration, Newman determines who is to get the bike.
If you have access to the episode on DVD or happen to catch it in reruns, make note of the scene that references today's passage. Click here to see a preview of the episode.
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The threshing floor was a hardened area of ground, usually built on an elevated area, that was exposed to the wind. Grain was piled up on the ground and was crushed by the large stone wheels of heavy carts pulled by teams of oxen. People then used rakes to toss the crushed grain in the air so that the wind would blow away the chaff.
To learn more, click here.
In 2 Samuel 24, David intercedes for his people and stops a plague. Repenting and confessing his sin, David shows true humility. David builds an altar to the Lord and makes sacrifice at the threshing floor of Araunah. This place is significant because it is the future site of the temple, built by Solomon (see 1 Chronicles 21:18—22:1).
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Do you find today's reading interesting?
In 1 Samuel 28, Saul consults a medium, commonly referred to as a witch, to find out about his future. Earlier, Saul had banned mediums from the kingdom but now seeks one out when God does not answer him.
Commentators differ on what actually happens in this passage. Some say the medium fakes Samuel's appearance, while others believe he does appear from the dead before the medium is able to summon him.
Saul lacks a trusting faith in God and turns to idolatry to know and control the future. Think about the ways we do the same today. Many people put their faith in psychics and horoscopes. We trust in ways to get rich quick, tools for living successfully, or the secrets for unlocking ancient and modern mysteries.
How does your lack of trusting faith lead you to idolatry? What is a key challenge for you as you trust your future to God?
Here's something to try: Make a list of all your fears. Allow yourself to go as far as your mind will take you. Then imagine yourself living through that experience if that fear were to come true. Don't stop there. Now, see yourself relying on God during that experience. Know God's protection, love, peace, and sustenance. Remember that though the future is scary, God is in the future. God will be there. Don't think of the uncertainty of the future without remembering that God is there, too.
Blog about your thoughts.
Commentators differ on what actually happens in this passage. Some say the medium fakes Samuel's appearance, while others believe he does appear from the dead before the medium is able to summon him.
Saul lacks a trusting faith in God and turns to idolatry to know and control the future. Think about the ways we do the same today. Many people put their faith in psychics and horoscopes. We trust in ways to get rich quick, tools for living successfully, or the secrets for unlocking ancient and modern mysteries.
How does your lack of trusting faith lead you to idolatry? What is a key challenge for you as you trust your future to God?
Here's something to try: Make a list of all your fears. Allow yourself to go as far as your mind will take you. Then imagine yourself living through that experience if that fear were to come true. Don't stop there. Now, see yourself relying on God during that experience. Know God's protection, love, peace, and sustenance. Remember that though the future is scary, God is in the future. God will be there. Don't think of the uncertainty of the future without remembering that God is there, too.
Blog about your thoughts.
Great Job! 12/07/2007
This week, you've finished not one, but TWO books of the Bible. Give yourself a pat on the back for keeping up with your reading and quizzes.
If you're just getting started with the Amazing Bible Race, that's OK, too. We're glad you're here. You're going to love the Race.
If you're falling a bit behind on your readings and quizzes, just set aside some quiet time to get caught up. You can do it!!! We're cheering you on.
Reading God's Word is food for your soul. Read it, believe it, and hide it in your heart.
Write on your blog the biggest challenges you've had to overcome since beginning the Race. What's the hardest thing for you to do in hiding the Word in your heart? Reading, meditating, memorizing?
Re-commit to pray for your teammates as you run the Race.
This week, you've finished not one, but TWO books of the Bible. Give yourself a pat on the back for keeping up with your reading and quizzes.
If you're just getting started with the Amazing Bible Race, that's OK, too. We're glad you're here. You're going to love the Race.
If you're falling a bit behind on your readings and quizzes, just set aside some quiet time to get caught up. You can do it!!! We're cheering you on.
Reading God's Word is food for your soul. Read it, believe it, and hide it in your heart.
Write on your blog the biggest challenges you've had to overcome since beginning the Race. What's the hardest thing for you to do in hiding the Word in your heart? Reading, meditating, memorizing?
Re-commit to pray for your teammates as you run the Race.
Give Me a Sign 12/04/2007
In Judges 6:33—7:18, Gideon struggles to believe God's promise. He was challenged to obey God's call and wanted assurance that God would keep God's promise.
Struggling to Believe
So, Gideon puts out a fleece and gives God a test. He asks God first to make the fleece wet and the ground dry. The next night, Gideon asks God to make the fleece dry and the ground wet. God did just as Gideon asked.
Gideon's tests were a sign of his unbelief and lack of faith. He was preoccupied with signs, which we later learn leads him into idolatry (see 8:27). How do you understand this desire for signs of God's promises to lead one into idolatry?
Consider Hebrews 11:1 that says faith has conviction of things not seen. Romans 8:24 talks about true hope being hope in things that are not seen, and 2 Corinthians 4:18 talks about those things that can be seen as being temporary and those things that cannot be seen as being eternal.
Think about the amount of faith, belief, and hope that is required to be devoted to God. What are your challenges in doing so? Can you identify with Gideon's need for a sign? Where do you see persons asking for signs in today's church culture?
How is your own Christian walk strengthened when you move by faith, not by sight?
Post your thoughts on your blog.
I Am Woman! 12/03/2007
Today's Pace Pusher on page 19 of the Runner's Reader asks you to think about strong women with important roles in God's story.
Today's Pace Pusher on page 19 of the Runner's Reader asks you to think about strong women with important roles in God's story.
Since God's story is ultimately Jesus' story, we recommend turning to his geneaology in Matthew 1. The woman mentioned there may surprise you, since a few of them had questionable behavior and/or were Gentiles.
Note the mentions of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Uriah's wife, and Mary. What do you know about these women? What does it mean to you that the Bible mentions them in the geneaology of Jesus, while omitting others?
Who are some other prominent women throughout the Bible who are commended for their strength, faith, and/or works? Think of special women to whom Jesus ministered and/or who followed Jesus.
Write about your research and what you've learned on your blog.
Advent 12/02/2007
Today is the first Sunday of Advent. Visit this website for terrific ideas about "taking back Advent," as a time of preparation for the King's arrival.
Advent Conspiracy
How will your participation in the Amazing Bible Race affect the way you experience Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany this year?
Today is the first Sunday of Advent. Visit this website for terrific ideas about "taking back Advent," as a time of preparation for the King's arrival.
Advent Conspiracy
How will your participation in the Amazing Bible Race affect the way you experience Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany this year?
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We found a map to help with today's hurdle. This map of the Exodus and Conquest of Canaan can help you see how the Israelites settled into the Promised Land.
Click on the picture of the map for a larger view.
The map is copyright 2000 Zondervan.
Racing Tip Answers 11/29/2007
The Racing Tip on page 14 of the Runner's Reader asks you to find instances in the Scripture where Canaanites remain in the land and where women are given property.
Check out these references for the answers:
Joshua 13:13, 15:16-19, 15:63, 16:10, and 17:3-6.
The Racing Tip on page 14 of the Runner's Reader asks you to find instances in the Scripture where Canaanites remain in the land and where women are given property.
Check out these references for the answers:
Joshua 13:13, 15:16-19, 15:63, 16:10, and 17:3-6.
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In Chapter 10, Joshua has overtaken Ai and formed a peace treaty with Gibeon. Five kings from nearby cities become nervous. They join forces to retaliate against Gibeon. Joshua's army comes to the defense of this city.
Notice two supernatural events in this passage: 1. deadly hailstones from heaven in verse 11. The Scripture says that more warriors died from the hail than by the sword; 2. the sun and moon stopped in verses 12-14.
Commentators explain the events in verses 12-14 differently. Some speculate it was an eclipse or the Israelites positioned themselves with the sun behind them so as to blind their enemies during battle. Others take the passage quite literally, believing God stopped the sun from setting in direct answer to Joshua's prayer and as evidence of God's fighting for Israel.
What do you think? What really happened during the battle at Gibeon?
Post your thoughts on your blog.
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Listen to "On Jordan's Stormy Banks I Stand." We recommend Jars of Clay's version from their 2005 CD, Redemption Songs. This is an old hymn set to a new tune.
Consider the lyrics along with today's Scripture reading.
How does this relate to you? When have you stood on Jordan's stormy banks, so to speak? Where are you now—on the banks of the river or enjoying the Promised Land? What is your ultimate Promised Land? What is your ultimate sanctuary of rest? How did the Israelites' settling into the Promised Land foreshadow the rest we know in Christ?
Write about your experience of the Scripture through this hymn on your blog.
You're Done! 11/23/2007
Can you believe it? You've finished the first five books of the Bible. What an accomplishment.
Can you believe it? You've finished the first five books of the Bible. What an accomplishment.
How's it going? What are you learning? What are your challenges?
Blog about the first leg, and prepare for the next.
You are doing a great job. Congratulations!
Covenant Renewal 11/21/2007
Moses has told the people what to do upon entering the land. Now, Deuteronomy 28 begins with Moses' calling the people to covenant renewal.
Moses has told the people what to do upon entering the land. Now, Deuteronomy 28 begins with Moses' calling the people to covenant renewal.
Read through today's passage using this outline:
1. Moses lists the blessings (28:1-14)
2. Moses lists the curses (28:15—29:1)
3. Moses asks the people to recommit to the covenant (29:2—30:20)
Considering all that the Lord has done for you, how will you recommit to the covenant?
Post your thoughts about this passage on your blog.
Our Church Calendar 11/15/2007
Does worship in your church follow a calendar? Do you notice colors of altar cloths being changed at different times of the year? Have you heard the words, Pentecost, Epiphany, and Advent?
Does worship in your church follow a calendar? Do you notice colors of altar cloths being changed at different times of the year? Have you heard the words, Pentecost, Epiphany, and Advent?
Many Christian denominations follow a calendar to mark certain events in the life of the Church.
Compare and contrast Israelites' worship schedule and observances from Numbers 28-30 with that of modern-day Christian churches. What Israelite holy days do today's Christians still observe? Visit this website for more information: Ken Collins' Western Holy Days.
Talk with your pastor or worship leader about how your church observes the church calendar. Think about ways you could structure your personal devotion and Bible study time around the church calendar. How does studying the prophecies surrounding Christ's birth during the Advent season, for example, enhance your learning?
Write about all of this on your blog.
Grumble, Grumble 10/31/2007
Today you read about the Israelites' complaining in Numbers 11. After all they've been through, after all from which they've been delivered, after God's provision of food, why are they complaining?
How is God saving you, providing for you, and leading you? How do you complain against God? How does the Isralites' experience in Numbers 11 apply to your own life?
Post your thoughts on your blog.
Today you read about the Israelites' complaining in Numbers 11. After all they've been through, after all from which they've been delivered, after God's provision of food, why are they complaining?
How is God saving you, providing for you, and leading you? How do you complain against God? How does the Isralites' experience in Numbers 11 apply to your own life?
Post your thoughts on your blog.
You've Made It Through Another Book 10/26/2007
Congratulations! You've made it through the book of Leviticus. You're doing a great job on the Race. Keep going.
Congratulations! You've made it through the book of Leviticus. You're doing a great job on the Race. Keep going.
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Does it surprise you that God gives specific rules for priests? Since priests approached God on behalf of the people, they were required to show God's holiness in their character and in their bodies.
What aspect(s) of this requirement applies today to members of the clergy? What standards are ministers held to with regard to their character and their bodies? Is it fair to hold them to a higher standard than lay persons? And to whom should these standards extend: bishops, elders, deacons, Sunday school teachers, youth group leaders, Christian music artists?
What about celebrities? Even if they may or may not claim to be Christians, do they have a responsibility to behave and/or dress a certain way?
Consider the recent news headlines about Lindsay Lohan's treatment for substance abuse, Britney Spears' child custody battle with her ex-husband, and Paris Hilton's serving jail time. Do these actions of celebrities have any influence on your own behavior? What about those adults whom you know personally and respect? How do their actions affect your own?
For more insight into adults' viewpoints about the antics of Lindsay, Britney, and Paris and the way they believe these celebrities are affecting today's teens, check out the article below from Newsweek magazine:
"Girls Gone Wild: What Are Celebrities Teaching Kids?" http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16961761/site/newsweek/page/0/
How do you feel about the article? Record your thoughts on your blog.
And finally, how does this apply to you? Think about to whom you are responsible. To whom does your conduct matter? As a disciple of Christ, you represent him to the watching world. Who's watching and what will they think of Christ just by observing you?
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Alabama First State to Adopt Bible Textbook for High Schools
Alabama has become the first state to approve a Bible textbook for statewide adoption, makers of ”The Bible and Its Influence” announced last week.The Bible Literacy Project, an interfaith group that released the book in September 2005, said the decision by the Alabama State Board of Education last Wednesday also makes ”The Bible and Its Influence” the first textbook for academic study of the Bible to be adopted statewide.
“This is major news in the field of education,” stated Bible Literacy Project Chairman Chuck Stetson. “While academic study of the Bible is legal in all 50 states, this decision means that any school in the state of Alabama can purchase our textbook with state-provided funds until 2013.”
Read the entire story here:
What do you think? Would you like to study the Bible from a textbook at school? How will the schools treat God's Word outside of a church setting?Post your thoughts on your blog.
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Hollywood gives us another movie on the life of Moses. Promenade Pictures' The Ten Commandments opens nationwide in theatres today.
With your team, watch the movie, then compare and contrast it with the other movies about Moses, as well as the biblical account of his life.
Advertising for the movie has caused some controversy, though. Radio Disney refused to air a radio ad unless the word, God, was cut. Filmmakers complied with the request, reasoning that Radio Disney's listeners were members of the film's target audience: children and tweens. The president of Promenade Pictures said that once the audience was in the theatre, they would hear plenty about God. Many Christians are outraged and offended that advertisers would demand that the word, God, would not be welcomed in relation to a biblically-based movie.
What do you think? How do you feel about Radio Disney's request to remove the word, God? How do you feel about the filmmakers' agreeing to remove the word, God, from the radio ads?
Post your thoughts on your blog.
Check out these websites to learn more:
The Ten Commandments Movie site
Christians Urged to Rally Against Disney's Removal of 'God' from Movie Ad
Radio Disney: Remove God From 'Ten Commandments' Movie Ad
Americans know Big Macs better than Ten Commandments
How Should I Worship God? 10/18/2007
The Law of Moses regulated worship more specifically than it did any other aspect of life. All of what we read about worship regulations means that our worship must be closely based in the Word of God. The Mosaic Law can also give us a good idea of what type of worship pleases God.
As you read through Leviticus, think through the way you worship God today.What Levitical institutions find their correlation and fulfillment in modern-day worship?
Old Testament: Sacrificial system for sin atonement
New Testament: sacrifice of Christ for sin atonement
Old Testament: Circumcision and Passover to mark God's people
New Testament: Baptism and the Lord's Supper to mark God's people
Old Testament: Sabbath observed on seventh day
New Testament: Sabbath observed on first day
What other Old and New Testament pairs can you find? How does the significance of the Levitical laws change for you when you consider the way they foreshadow what is to come?
For some great worship ideas, check out the Worship Feast series from Abingdon Youth, available for purchase at http://www.cokesbury.com.
Post your thoughts to your blog.
The Law of Moses regulated worship more specifically than it did any other aspect of life. All of what we read about worship regulations means that our worship must be closely based in the Word of God. The Mosaic Law can also give us a good idea of what type of worship pleases God.
As you read through Leviticus, think through the way you worship God today.What Levitical institutions find their correlation and fulfillment in modern-day worship?
Old Testament: Sacrificial system for sin atonement
New Testament: sacrifice of Christ for sin atonement
Old Testament: Circumcision and Passover to mark God's people
New Testament: Baptism and the Lord's Supper to mark God's people
Old Testament: Sabbath observed on seventh day
New Testament: Sabbath observed on first day
What other Old and New Testament pairs can you find? How does the significance of the Levitical laws change for you when you consider the way they foreshadow what is to come?
For some great worship ideas, check out the Worship Feast series from Abingdon Youth, available for purchase at http://www.cokesbury.com.
Post your thoughts to your blog.
Woohoo! 10/12/2007
Congratulations! You've completed another book of the Bible. Way to go with your reading, quiz-taking, and uploads.
Take a break this weekend and get ready for Leviticus.
You're doing a great job. Keep going.
Congratulations! You've completed another book of the Bible. Way to go with your reading, quiz-taking, and uploads.
Take a break this weekend and get ready for Leviticus.
You're doing a great job. Keep going.
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Of all things for the Israelites to worship, why would they make a statue of a cow?
In art and legends, gods were often represented by animals. Bulls and bull calves were associated with strength, virility, and kingship. Egyptians and Canaanites both regarded the bull as an earthly representation of a deity.
Remember that the people of Israel had left Egypt and were headed to Canaan. They had adopted some of the false god worship of each culture into their worship of the one true God. In doing so, the Israelites denigrated God's unique attributes and stripped God of deserved glory. Nothing in creation is fully adequate to represent the totality of God.
The Israelites' golden calf may have looked something like the bull statue pictured here. (It is a bronze bull covered in gold leaf, recovered from a Phoenician Temple at Byblos, Phoenicia.) The bull was associated with the god named Baal-Hadad. Thunderclouds (which brought rain, lightning, and thunder) were called "Hadad's Calves."
Moses had just been on Mount Sinai, where the Israelites witnessed God's presence as manifested in thunder, lightning, and smoke (see Exodus 19:16-25). Shortly thereafter, Aaron made a golden calf for Israel to worship.
Why do you think the Israelites were so quick to adopt other cultures' false god worship practices? Do you think they were sincere in trying to please God or do you think they were in deliberate sin, trying to achieve some other purpose?
In what ways do you see worldly practices of "false god worship" creeping into your own "worship" of the one true God? (You must think beyond animal statues!) What are the false gods that your culture says deserve your full devotion? How does your culture tell you to practice your faith? What does the Bible say about all of this?
There's a lot to think about here. It may seem unconnected to your 21st century life, but spend some time meditating on what the Holy Spirit would have you learn about yourself, your sin, and your God.
Use your blog to tell others what God is teaching you now.
Information taken from Archaeological Study Bible (Zondervan, 2005) and http://www.bibleorigins.net/YahwehsBovineFormsImages.html.
Photo: p. 80, Reader's Digest, "The Great People of the Bible and How They Lived." Pleasantville, New York. 1974.
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Do you wonder how God has gifted you for ministry? What gifts do you possess that make you uniquely qualified to do God's work?
With your team, search online for a spiritual gifts inventory.
You may want to check out one of these (we found them by doing a simple search and do not necessarily endorse the content of the sites):
www.elca.org/evangelism/assessments/spiritgifts.html
buildingchurch.net/g2s.htm
mintools.com/spiritual-gifts-test.htm
Each team member should take the quiz independently. Once everyone is finished, discuss your results. Have your team members, youth leader, parents, and friends comment on your results. Do they seem accurate? How can you better use your strongest gifts? How can you strengthen your weaker gifts? For the sake of ministry, how can you partner with those who are stronger in gifts in which you are weaker?
Post thoughts on your blog.
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Evan Almighty Releases on DVD Today
For a fun take on the biblical account of Noah’s ark and the great flood (review Genesis 6—9 from Week 1 Day 3), go to http://www.evanalmighty.com. This is the official website for the motion picture, Evan Almighty. A modern-day twist on the building of Noah’s ark, the movie was released in June 2007. With your team, watch the movie then compare and contrast the biblical account with the movie version.
If you are just getting started on the Amazing Bible Race, this is a fun way to learn a little bit more during Week 1. If you are several weeks along into the race, this will be an entertaining review.
Don't forget the soda and popcorn!
Discuss the movie and your thoughts on your blog.
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Today we read about the elaborate consecration ritual God commanded for the priests. Note the priests are washed and dressed. In verses 10-34, we read that three sacrifices complete the ritual.
Have you ever thought about participating in vocational ministry? What are the requirements for ministerial ordination in your denomination? Do your ministers wear special garments during worship services? Why or why not?
Talk with your pastor(s) to discover what is required and accomplished during the ordination process. For more information, talk with your denomination's organization for ordaining ministerial candidates.
Talk with your pastor(s) and/or worship leader(s) to find out what why certain garments are or are not chosen for those who lead worship.
Compare and contrast modern-day ordination services with the one outlined in Exodus 29. What's the same? What's different?
After studying vocational ministry, do you have more or less interest in pursuing it?
Discuss your thoughts on your blog.
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You've probably noticed by now that Hollywood has a fascination with biblical characters, themes, and objects for its television shows and movies.
With your team, check out these shows that prominently feature the Ark of the Covenant:
- Raiders of the Lost Ark, 1981
- Honey, I Blew Up the Kid, 1992
- Xena: Warrior Princess, 1996 (Season 1, Episode 17, "The Royal Couple of Thieves")
- The Librarian: Quest for the Spear, 2006 (TNT movie)
Why is the Ark of the Covenant such an attractive plot element for television and film?
Where do you think the Ark of the Covenant is today? Does it even matter? What does the Ark tell you in terms of God's holiness?
Do a Bible word search for mentions of the Ark of the Covenant. Follow references through the Old and New Testaments. From an historical viewpoint, search for information about the last known location of the Ark and where it may be today.
Read Revelation 11:19. What does the passage tell you about the Ark of the Covenant? Does this description surprise you? Why or why not?
Discuss all of these aspects of the Ark of the Covenant with your team, then
post your observations and insights on your blog.
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Spend some time getting to know Moses through the movies!
Arrange a time to watch The Ten Commandments (1956, starring Charlton Heston as Moses). If you've not watched The Prince of Egypt, you can pair the two for a Moses Marathon.
Watch the movies with your team or large group and discuss afterwards what new things you've learned and how the film versions are similar to and different from the biblical accounts.
Blog about your thoughts.
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Download Sara Groves' song, "Painting Pictures of Egypt" (from Conversations, 2001). With your team, listen to its lyrics and discuss her message. How is she relating the experiences of the Israelites to her experiences? How do you identify with the Israelites? How do you "paint pictures of Egypt" in your own life?
Blog about your discussion and personal revelations.
Through the Wilderness 09/28/2007
Moses and the Israelites are on their way! They've left Egypt. Now they are heading for the Promised Land, but not without tests of faith. Still, we see the protection and provision of God through the wilderness years.
To see a map of their journeys, click here:
http://www.bible-history.com/maps/route_exodus.html
Keep the map handy as you read of the Israelites' travels. Find key places on the map as you read about them in the Scripture.
Remember that the Israelites' exodus spanned forty years (Exodus 16:35).
Moses and the Israelites are on their way! They've left Egypt. Now they are heading for the Promised Land, but not without tests of faith. Still, we see the protection and provision of God through the wilderness years.
To see a map of their journeys, click here:
http://www.bible-history.com/maps/route_exodus.html
Keep the map handy as you read of the Israelites' travels. Find key places on the map as you read about them in the Scripture.
Remember that the Israelites' exodus spanned forty years (Exodus 16:35).
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Today you read about the Passover, which the Jewish people still celebrate today. Passover is the oldest of the Jewish festivals.
Future Passover dates are as follows:
- Jewish Year 5768: sunset April 19, 2008 - nightfall April 27, 2008
- Jewish Year 5769: sunset April 8, 2009 - nightfall April 16, 2009
- Jewish Year 5770: sunset March 29, 2010 - nightfall April 6, 2010
- Jewish Year 5771: sunset April 18, 2011 - nightfall April 26, 2011
- Jewish Year 5772: sunset April 6, 2012 - nightfall April 14, 2012
http://www.jewfaq.org/holidaya.htm#Seder
http://www.chabad.org/search/keyword.htm/kid/145/jewish/Passover.html
You may also search for Messianic Jewish (Jewish persons who accept Christ as the Messiah) congregations in your area.
(If you are interested, make a note to locate and attend a Passover celebration in your area in the spring. Another idea is to have a traditional Seder meal on Maundy Thursday as part of your church's Easter celebrations.)
Read Mark 14:12-26. What do you notice when you compare and contrast the New Testament passage with the Exodus passage and information about modern-day Passover celebrations?
Blog about your impressions of past and present observances of Passover. How does your belief in Christ as Messiah affect your viewpoint?
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Moses' leadership of God's people drives the story of Exodus, which opens with his birth. Like so many Old Testament stories, Exodus is a fascinating read with miracles and murder, suffering and sacrifice, triumph and tragedy.
For something fun to do as you study Exodus, watch The Prince of Egypt (1998, Dreamworks) and compare the biblical version with the film version. What did the filmmakers get right? What did they take liberties with? How do you better understand Moses' character and story after watching the movie? What questions does the movie leave you with?
Discuss your thoughts on your blog and with your team members.
One Down, Only 65 to Go! 09/21/2007
Congratulations! How does it feel to have read through Genesis, the first book of the Bible? What an accomplishment!
What have you learned about God, God's people, yourself? What new things did you learn that you didn't know before? What old stories did you enjoy re-reading?
Record your thoughts on your blog.
On Monday, you'll begin Exodus. What do you remember about the book of Exodus? Do you know what the name, Exodus, alludes to?
Take a breather this weekend and give yourself a pat on the back for a great start to the Amazing Bible Race.
Congratulations! How does it feel to have read through Genesis, the first book of the Bible? What an accomplishment!
What have you learned about God, God's people, yourself? What new things did you learn that you didn't know before? What old stories did you enjoy re-reading?
Record your thoughts on your blog.
On Monday, you'll begin Exodus. What do you remember about the book of Exodus? Do you know what the name, Exodus, alludes to?
Take a breather this weekend and give yourself a pat on the back for a great start to the Amazing Bible Race.
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The mandrake plant was often used for its medicinal purposes and was believed to help barren women conceive. It has greenish-yellow flowers and a branched root that resembles the human body. The fruit of the plant is the May apple. All parts of the mandrake plant are poisonous.
Make Some Lentil Stew 09/12/2007
Genesis 25:27-34 tells us how Esau trades his rights and blessings as the firstborn son for a bowl of lentil soup.
The lentil soup was a very common meal. Lentils were so plentiful that they were almost worthless. Lentils are about the size of a pea.
With your team, cook up some stew and discuss why you think Esau would have given up his birthright for this meal. What would be a comparable meal today? For example, would you give up something important for a bowl of chicken noodle soup?
Take pictures of your cooking, dining, and discussion experience and post them online.
Esau's Pottage
1 onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken stock
1 cup red lentils
1/2 pound spinach (optional)
salt
Saute onion in olive oil with cumin and coriander. Add the garlic at the last moment and brown. Add lentils and stock. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 45 minutes until lentils are tender. Cook ten minutes longer if necessary. Add spinach 15 minutes before serving. Salt to taste. Feeds six.
Helpful hint: Red lentils are difficult to find unless you have a Middle Eastern specialty grocer in your neighborhood. They aren't very red anyway, so substituting the regular lentils will hardly be noticed.
from Milk and Honey Cooking School (Abingdon Press, 2006)
Genesis 25:27-34 tells us how Esau trades his rights and blessings as the firstborn son for a bowl of lentil soup.
The lentil soup was a very common meal. Lentils were so plentiful that they were almost worthless. Lentils are about the size of a pea.
With your team, cook up some stew and discuss why you think Esau would have given up his birthright for this meal. What would be a comparable meal today? For example, would you give up something important for a bowl of chicken noodle soup?
Take pictures of your cooking, dining, and discussion experience and post them online.
Esau's Pottage
1 onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken stock
1 cup red lentils
1/2 pound spinach (optional)
salt
Saute onion in olive oil with cumin and coriander. Add the garlic at the last moment and brown. Add lentils and stock. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 45 minutes until lentils are tender. Cook ten minutes longer if necessary. Add spinach 15 minutes before serving. Salt to taste. Feeds six.
Helpful hint: Red lentils are difficult to find unless you have a Middle Eastern specialty grocer in your neighborhood. They aren't very red anyway, so substituting the regular lentils will hardly be noticed.
from Milk and Honey Cooking School (Abingdon Press, 2006)
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What if Isaac and Rebekah had had a 21st century ultrasound image of their twin boys, Jacob and Esau, before they were born? God tells them much more in Genesis 25:23 than any modern-day ultrasound machine ever could.
How many other twin births can you find in the Bible?
For an amazing look at human twins, triplets, and quadruplets developing in the womb, check out National Geographic's In the Womb: Multiples series at http://shop.nationalgeographic.com/product/3545.html.
You'll have a better idea of all that Rebekah (and other expectant moms of multiples) went through as well as God's tremendous creation of human life. As you watch the video, consider God's plan to create two nations within Rebekah's womb.
Talk about your observations on your blog.
Reflecting Today 09/11/2007
9/11 Tragedy Anniversary
We know you're well aware of the fact that six years ago today thousands of Americans died in a terrorist attack at the World Trade Center and in airplane crashes, which were originally headed for key building targets.
As you consider those who still grieve lost loved ones, how our country is protected against future attacks, and God's sovereign hand in all of this, think about today's Scripture.
Genesis 21 tells us the amazing story of Isaac's birth. Isaac was the promised child to Abraham and Sarah. Isaac represents new life coming from death.
Where else in Scripture do you remember God's bringing new life from a dead situation? How has God worked new life in your own heart?
The hope of new life from a dead situation. That's good news today in a post-9/11 world.
Post thoughts about the 9/11 anniversary on your blog.
9/11 Tragedy Anniversary
We know you're well aware of the fact that six years ago today thousands of Americans died in a terrorist attack at the World Trade Center and in airplane crashes, which were originally headed for key building targets.
As you consider those who still grieve lost loved ones, how our country is protected against future attacks, and God's sovereign hand in all of this, think about today's Scripture.
Genesis 21 tells us the amazing story of Isaac's birth. Isaac was the promised child to Abraham and Sarah. Isaac represents new life coming from death.
Where else in Scripture do you remember God's bringing new life from a dead situation? How has God worked new life in your own heart?
The hope of new life from a dead situation. That's good news today in a post-9/11 world.
Post thoughts about the 9/11 anniversary on your blog.
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Today's Fast Forward gives directions to walk a labyrinth. If you don't have a labyrinth readily available to you, consider doing a finger labyrinth instead.
Just search "finger labyrinth" on an Internet search engine, or visit this link: www.lessons4living.com/finger_labyrinth.htm.
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Trace Abraham's journey as you read along in Genesis 12—15. Click on the map to see where Abraham traveled.
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A Zigg-a-what???
The Tower of Babel was probably a ziggurat, a temple tower with ascending stories to reach higher to God.
Check out these websites for some artist drawings of what the Tower of Babel may have looked like:
www.unmuseum.org/babel.htm
www.hope.edu/bandstra/RTOT/CH1/CH1_BAB.HTM
After you've looked at the drawings and considered the Scriptures, why do you think the Israelites believed they could "build" their way to God?
Record your thoughts and observations on your blog.
The painting is The Tower of Babel, by Pieter Bruegel (c. 1525-69), 1563. Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien, Vienna.
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The Rainbow
Would you like to know more about the sign of God’s promise, the rainbow (Genesis 9:13)? Check this cool website for the science behind rainbows: science.howstuffworks.com/rainbow.htm.
To do a science experiment with the various colors of the rainbow, go here: www.kidzone.ws/science/rainbow.htm.
Now that you know a little more about rainbows, what makes the rainbow a significant and appropriate choice as the sign of God’s covenant with Noah?
Post your observations and thoughts on your blog.
The painting is Noah's Thanksgiving, by Joseph Anton Koch (1803). The image and reproductions are in the public domain worldwide. Click on the picture to see a larger image.
Noah: One Cool Dude 09/05/2007
You think you're tired with school work, sports, and church activities?
Consider that Noah was really old—I mean, really old—when he built the ark. And it took him more than one hundred years to get the job done.
Here's all you ever wanted to know about Noah:
Source: The Victor Journey through the Bible, V. Gilbert Beers (Cook, 1996)
Age when God told him to build the ark: 480
Age when first child, Shem, was born: 502
Years it took Noah to build the ark: 120
Age when the Flood came: 600
Age when Noah died: 950
Now you have no excuse to complain about being tired or having too much to do again!
You think you're tired with school work, sports, and church activities?
Consider that Noah was really old—I mean, really old—when he built the ark. And it took him more than one hundred years to get the job done.
Here's all you ever wanted to know about Noah:
Source: The Victor Journey through the Bible, V. Gilbert Beers (Cook, 1996)
Age when God told him to build the ark: 480
Age when first child, Shem, was born: 502
Years it took Noah to build the ark: 120
Age when the Flood came: 600
Age when Noah died: 950
Now you have no excuse to complain about being tired or having too much to do again!
All About Noah's Ark 09/05/2007
Now that's a really big boat . . .
Have you really thought about the size of Noah's ark? The stats below will help you get an idea of just how gi-normous it really was. WOW!
Source: The Victor Journey through the Bible, V. Gilbert Beers (Cook, 1996)
Length: 450 feet, about 1.5 times as large as a football field from goal line to goal line. The ark was longer than a dozen big school buses or two dozen family cars.
Width: 75 feet
Height: 45 feet. The ark was taller than a four-story school building.
Decks: 3
Lower deck: probably housed larger animals or waste materials
Top deck: probably were the living quarters; covered by a roof
Windows: source of light and ventilation; 18 inches high, built all around the ark near the roof
Door: large one in the side of the door closed by God when the Flood began (Genesis 7:16)
Sails: none
Oars: none
Source of power or navigation: none, except God
Passengers: eight people are mentioned in the text: Noah, his wife, his three sons (Ham, Shem, and Japheth), and their three wives.
Now that's a really big boat . . .
Have you really thought about the size of Noah's ark? The stats below will help you get an idea of just how gi-normous it really was. WOW!
Source: The Victor Journey through the Bible, V. Gilbert Beers (Cook, 1996)
Length: 450 feet, about 1.5 times as large as a football field from goal line to goal line. The ark was longer than a dozen big school buses or two dozen family cars.
Width: 75 feet
Height: 45 feet. The ark was taller than a four-story school building.
Decks: 3
Lower deck: probably housed larger animals or waste materials
Top deck: probably were the living quarters; covered by a roof
Windows: source of light and ventilation; 18 inches high, built all around the ark near the roof
Door: large one in the side of the door closed by God when the Flood began (Genesis 7:16)
Sails: none
Oars: none
Source of power or navigation: none, except God
Passengers: eight people are mentioned in the text: Noah, his wife, his three sons (Ham, Shem, and Japheth), and their three wives.
Tempting Fruit 09/04/2007
Some have suggested that pomegranate was the fruit used by Satan to tempt Eve and then Adam (Genesis 3—5). The fruit is native to the Middle East today and was widely used in that region during Bible times. Other scholars have suggested that the forbidden fruit was a fig, grapes, or a citron (similar to a lemon). Generally, scholars agree that the forbidden fruit was not an apple as stories and illustrations surrounding the Fall typically portray. Early Christian scholars and Bible translators most likely used the word, apple, for the Latin malum, which means both “apple” and “evil.”
Have a fruit snack with your team or youth group of pomegranate, figs, grapes, and lemons. Consider that one of these fruits may have been the temptation that Eve and Adam faced. Perhaps, though, the fruit was something even more beautiful and delicious than we can imagine. The Bible simply doesn’t say what kind of fruit Satan used to tempt the humans.
What’s your favorite food? Have you ever been so enticed by food that you sinned in order to indulge?
Discuss your thoughts on your blog.
Some have suggested that pomegranate was the fruit used by Satan to tempt Eve and then Adam (Genesis 3—5). The fruit is native to the Middle East today and was widely used in that region during Bible times. Other scholars have suggested that the forbidden fruit was a fig, grapes, or a citron (similar to a lemon). Generally, scholars agree that the forbidden fruit was not an apple as stories and illustrations surrounding the Fall typically portray. Early Christian scholars and Bible translators most likely used the word, apple, for the Latin malum, which means both “apple” and “evil.”
Have a fruit snack with your team or youth group of pomegranate, figs, grapes, and lemons. Consider that one of these fruits may have been the temptation that Eve and Adam faced. Perhaps, though, the fruit was something even more beautiful and delicious than we can imagine. The Bible simply doesn’t say what kind of fruit Satan used to tempt the humans.
What’s your favorite food? Have you ever been so enticed by food that you sinned in order to indulge?
Discuss your thoughts on your blog.
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Are you ready to race through the Bible?
Are you ready to learn a lot?
Are you ready to have fun?
Are you ready to be changed by God's Word?
The Amazing Bible Race is on! Are you ready? It begins September 1, 2007 with a finish line at September 30, 2009. If your team completes the Amazing Bible Race and places among the top ten point winning teams, you win $500 to designate to a mission organization of your choice! Or, you could give the money to your youth group's mission fund.
Get ready. Get set. RACE!
Where's the Garden of Eden? 09/01/2007
From Genesis 2: The Location of Eden
From Genesis 2: The Location of Eden
Eden’s exact location is not known. Genesis 2:8 suggests that the garden was located east of Canaan. Verses 10-14 associates four rivers with Eden: the Pishon, the Gihon, the Tigris, and the Euphrates. The Tigris and Euphrates are the two Mesopotamian rivers that bear those names today; they flow through modern countries of Syria, Iraq, and Turkey. The Gihon and Pishon are harder to identify, as scholars have debated their locations to include Jerusalem, Egypt, ancient Kush (east of the Tigris). Some scholars suggest that the Gihon and Pishon were canals or tributaries of the Tigris and Euphrates. If the four rivers were upstream of the river of Eden, Eden would have been located in northern Mesopotamia or in the mountains of Armenia. Another possible location would be southern Mesopotamia where the rivers converge and end. Most scholars believe that Eden was located somewhere near the head of the Persian Gulf where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet.
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Congratulations to "The Texans" from Mission Bend United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas!
"The Texans" took home the grand prize, a laptop computer, from the Amazing Bible Race event at last month's Youth 2007.
Seventy teams of up to 10 youth each came together to complete the adventure Bible challenge. The challenge course included physical tasks, creative interpretations, team building, and Bible quizzes. Points were given for correct answers, timed challenges, teamwork, and accuracy.
Youth director Tammie Mailloux led "The Texans" in a late-night Bible study session the night before their race to prepare for the Bible quizzes. The team breezed through the Bible quizzes and excelled at all of the challenges.
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