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Bible Study, The River Youth Group, Uncategorized

Overcoming Double-Mindedness: A Call to Single-Minded Faith

agingenglishmajor

by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught between two opposing forces—one that calls us to follow Christ and another that invites us to indulge in the world. This inner tension is known as double-mindedness, a condition where we are pulled in different directions, torn between living for God and pursuing worldly desires. But what does the Bible say about this struggle, and how can we overcome it?

James 4:4: A Stark Warning Against Double-Mindedness

James 4:4 (NIV) warns us about the consequences of being double-minded, saying, “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” This scripture is a stark reminder that we cannot serve two masters. When our hearts are divided, our relationship with God suffers, and we are unable to fully experience His love and His will for our lives.

What Does Double-Mindedness Mean?

Double-mindedness is described in James 1:8 as a state of instability, where one is tossed by the waves of doubt and confusion. James 1:6-8 (NIV) says:

“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.”

This instability keeps us from receiving what God has for us. It’s like standing on the edge of a cliff, unsure whether to step forward or step back. But God calls us to choose Him wholeheartedly.

The Dangers of Double-Mindedness

When we allow double-mindedness to take root, it leads to spiritual confusion and separation from God. The Bible tells us in Matthew 6:24 (NIV), “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.” Here, Jesus makes it clear that we cannot split our loyalty between God and the world. When we try to balance both, our hearts become divided, and we lose sight of God’s ultimate purpose for our lives.

Psalm 119:113 (NIV) speaks to the importance of loyalty to God’s Word, saying, “I hate double-minded people, but I love your law.” This highlights the deep disconnect between a mind that is divided and a heart that is fully devoted to God. If we want to grow in our faith, we need to give God our undivided attention.

The Solution: Single-Minded Devotion

How can we overcome double-mindedness and live out the purpose God has for us? The answer lies in wholeheartedly committing ourselves to God and His will. James 4:8 (NIV) gives us the solution: “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” This verse urges us to draw near to God, to purify our hearts, and to choose Him above all else.

Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV) also encourages us to press forward with single-minded devotion: “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Here, Paul sets an example of focusing solely on Christ and His calling, refusing to be distracted by the things of this world.

Practical Steps to Overcome Double-Mindedness

  1. Make God Your Priority: Every decision you make should be filtered through your relationship with God. Ask yourself, “Does this bring me closer to God or pull me further away?”
  2. Spend Time in His Word: God’s Word is the ultimate guide to help you stay focused on Him. Psalm 119:105 (NIV) says, “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Meditate on Scripture, letting it renew your mind and align your desires with His will.
  3. Pray with Confidence: When you pray, believe that God hears you and trust in His answers. James 1:6 reminds us that we must pray with faith, not doubt.
  4. Seek Godly Counsel: Surround yourself with people who are committed to following Christ. Proverbs 27:17 (NIV) says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” A supportive community can help you stay focused and accountable.
  5. Let Go of the World: Let go of worldly desires and distractions that compete for your attention. Romans 12:2 (NIV) urges us to “not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Allow God to transform your thinking and your actions so you can live fully for Him.

Conclusion: A Life Fully Devoted to Christ

Double-mindedness pulls us in two directions, creating instability and confusion. But God offers us a life of clarity, peace, and purpose when we choose to follow Him with an undivided heart. By seeking His guidance through prayer, reading His Word, and living out His truth, we can experience the fullness of His love and the power of a single-minded devotion to Him.

Reflection

  • Are there areas in your life where you feel double-minded? What is pulling you in two directions?
  • How can you commit to following God with an undivided heart?

Prayer

Father, I thank You for Your faithfulness in guiding me through the challenges of life. Help me to focus on You and Your will, removing any distractions or doubts that might pull me away from You. I choose today to lay aside anything that competes for my attention and to follow You with a pure heart. Transform my mind and my spirit, Lord, so that I may live with a single-minded devotion to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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#DoubleMinded #Faith #FollowJesus #StayFocused #UndividedHeart #OvercomeDistractions #Scripture #GodsWord #Devotion #ChristianLiving #TrustGod

Bible Study, The River Youth Group, Uncategorized

Word Study: Enmity – A Heart Divided

agingenglishmajor

by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

A Note: Understanding Double-Mindedness Through the Lens of Enmity
In our walk with Christ, one of the most critical areas to address is the battle of the mind. James 1:8 tells us that a double-minded person is unstable in all their ways, torn between two conflicting desires. But to truly understand the depth of double-mindedness, we must first grasp the concept of enmity—the hostility that exists between us and God when we allow ourselves to be influenced by worldly desires and values. Enmity is not just an external force; it begins in the heart, and it shapes the way we view and respond to God’s will. This word study on enmity is essential in understanding the underlying spiritual conflict of double-mindedness, as it reveals the spiritual battle between God’s kingdom and the world’s influence. When we understand enmity and its effects, we can better recognize how double-mindedness keeps us from fully embracing God’s peace and His purpose for our lives.

Word Study: Enmity – A Heart Divided
Scripture Reference: James 4:4, Romans 8:7, Galatians 5:17

The word “enmity” often comes up in discussions about relationships—whether it’s with people, God, or the world around us. The Bible speaks of enmity as a deep-seated hostility or opposition, especially when it comes to the relationship between us and God. It’s a word that signifies more than just disagreement; it represents a state of spiritual warfare, a force that keeps us from true peace and communion with the Creator.

What is Enmity?

Enmity is defined as the state or feeling of being actively opposed or hostile to someone or something. In Scripture, it refers to our human state of opposition against God or against His ways. It’s more than a mere disagreement or misunderstanding; it speaks to a fundamental spiritual divide, where one is actively at odds with the ways of God.

In James 4:4, we read:
“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” (NIV)

Here, James is not just referring to superficial choices but a deeper divide that happens when we allow ourselves to be consumed by the world’s values, desires, and distractions. This divide creates a conflict in our hearts between the things of God and the things of this world, leading us to a state of enmity with God.

The Root of Enmity: Sin and the Fall

When we go back to the beginning of humanity’s story, we see that enmity has existed since the Fall of man. In Genesis 3:15, God speaks to the serpent, foreshadowing the conflict between the serpent (Satan) and the woman (Eve), a prophetic declaration of the ongoing spiritual battle. This sets the tone for the enmity that sin has caused between humanity and God.

Genesis 3:15 (NIV)
“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”

This verse represents the first indication of enmity that would continue throughout the Bible, culminating in the ultimate victory of Christ over sin, death, and the enemy. Sin is the root of enmity because it separates us from God, and it is through Jesus that the power of sin is broken, and the peace of God is restored.

The Battle Within – Enmity Between Flesh and Spirit

The tension between flesh and spirit is a battleground where enmity plays out in our lives. In Romans 8:7, Paul describes the natural enmity of the flesh toward God’s will.

Romans 8:7 (NIV)
“The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.”

This hostility is not passive. It’s active opposition, preventing us from submitting to God’s will and living according to His ways. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak, and this inner conflict brings a war within our hearts—a spiritual enmity that only Christ can resolve.

The Power of God’s Peace

In Galatians 5:17, we see the ongoing battle between the flesh and the spirit:

Galatians 5:17 (NIV)
“For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.”

Here, we see that our sinful nature—the flesh—is constantly at odds with the desires of the Spirit. But praise God, He does not leave us in this state of conflict! Jesus came to break down the wall of enmity, reconciling us to the Father through His sacrifice.

Ephesians 2:14-16 (NIV)
“For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.”

This is the good news: Jesus came to end the enmity, to reconcile us to God, and to bring peace between us and the Father. Through Christ, the wall of separation is torn down, and the enmity of sin is defeated.

Overcoming Enmity

As believers, our task is to choose the things of God, to seek His will and to make peace with Him, and through that, make peace with others. When we choose friendship with God over the world, we walk in His victory over enmity.

We are no longer slaves to sin but children of God, called to share His peace and His love with others. As we recognize the work that Christ did to break down enmity, we should live lives marked by peace, love, and reconciliation.

Romans 5:1 (NIV)
“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Reflection

Is there any area of your life where you are still experiencing enmity—whether it’s with God, others, or yourself? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal these areas, and invite Him to bring healing, restoration, and peace. Jesus has broken down the wall of enmity, and His peace is available to you today.

A Prayer for Peace and Reconciliation

Father,
Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to bring an end to the enmity that existed between us and You. Thank You for reconciling us through His sacrifice on the cross. Help me to walk in Your peace, to choose friendship with You over the things of this world, and to live in a way that reflects Your love and grace. I ask that You remove any enmity in my heart and replace it with Your perfect peace. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.

Hashtags:

#Enmity #PeaceWithGod #GodsPeace #Reconciliation #Romans5 #JesusIsPeace #BrokennessHealed #HealingThroughChrist #LivingInPeace #ChristOurPeace #RestoredRelationships #FreedomInChrist

Bible Study, The River Youth Group, Uncategorized

Understanding the Healing at Bethesda

agingenglishmajor

A Lesson on Faith, Restoration, and Abiding in Christ

by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

In our upcoming Wednesday night class, we will explore the story of Jesus’ miraculous healing at the pool of Bethesda, found in John 5:1-15. This story isn’t just about physical healing—it’s a powerful reminder of Jesus’ compassion, authority, and deeper spiritual truths. To enhance our understanding, we can also reflect on John 15:4, which says: “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” 🌿

The Scene at Bethesda Jesus’ question to the paralyzed man, “Do you want to be made well?” (John 5:6), invites us to consider our own willingness to be healed and transformed. When Jesus commanded, “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk,” the man’s obedience led to immediate restoration. This act challenges us to respond to Jesus’ call with faith and action.

Connecting John 15:4 to Our Lesson Jesus’ teaching in John 15:4 reminds us that true transformation and sustained healing come from abiding in Him. Just as the man at Bethesda had to trust in Jesus’ words and act on them, we too must remain connected to Jesus to experience spiritual growth and life. Without this connection—without abiding—we cannot hope to overcome the struggles that leave us feeling paralyzed, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually.

Jesus’ Teachings After the Miracle Following the miracle, John 5:16-30 records how Jesus declared His divine relationship with the Father and His role as both life-giver and judge. He called those listening to recognize that His work was aligned with God’s will and authority. Similarly, by abiding in Jesus, we align our lives with His, allowing His strength to flow through us and bear fruit that glorifies God. 🍇✨

Prayer for This Lesson 🙏 Heavenly Father, thank You for the story of Jesus’ compassion and power at Bethesda. Teach us to trust You and abide in You as the source of our strength and healing. Help us remember that in You, we find life and restoration. When we feel overwhelmed or paralyzed by life’s challenges, may we seek Your presence and respond to Your invitation to be made whole. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Study Challenge for the Week This week, I challenge you to reflect on areas in your life where you may feel spiritually or emotionally paralyzed. Read John 5:1-15 and John 15:1-8 each day and consider:

AbideDownload
  • What does it mean for you to “abide in Jesus” in those areas?
  • How can you respond to Jesus’ call to “rise and walk” in your own life? Write down your thoughts or share them with a trusted friend or family member who can support your journey of faith.

✨ Remember, Jesus’ call to healing and restoration is an invitation for all of us. Trust in Him, stay connected to the vine, and bear fruit that lasts. ✨

#FaithAndHealing #AbideInChrist #BibleStudy #BethesdaMiracle #TrustInHim #SpiritualGrowth

Feel free to share this with your friends and encourage them to engage with the scriptures throughout the week! Let me know if there’s anything else I can do for you all this week. Please let me pray for you this week! 😊

Bible Study, The River Youth Group, Uncategorized

🌟💪Walking in Authority: The Centurion’s Faith and Our Power in Christ 🌟💪

agingenglishmajor

by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

In the Gospel of Matthew, we encounter a powerful story that highlights the authority of Jesus and how it reflects on us as His followers. The account of the centurion who asks Jesus to heal his servant (Matthew 8:5-13) provides profound insights into understanding authority, faith, and the impact we can have in the world around us.

The Centurion’s Humble Request 🙏

When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion approached Him, pleading for help. He explained that his servant was paralyzed and suffering. In a remarkable demonstration of humility, the centurion acknowledged that he did not deserve Jesus to come under his roof. Instead, he recognized Jesus’ authority and simply asked, “But just say the word, and my servant will be healed” (Matthew 8:8).

This statement reveals the centurion’s deep understanding of authority. As a military leader, he knew that words hold power. When he commanded his soldiers, they obeyed without question. Similarly, he understood that Jesus’ words carried authority that transcended physical distance.

Jesus’ Response to Faith ✨

When Jesus heard the centurion’s faith, He was amazed. He remarked that He had not found such great faith even in Israel. This moment highlights the significance of faith in recognizing Jesus’ authority.

“Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” — Matthew 8:10

Jesus then declared that the centurion’s servant would be healed, affirming that faith in His authority can lead to miraculous outcomes.

Our Authority as Christ Followers 🕊️

As followers of Christ, we are called to walk in the same authority that Jesus exemplified. Just as the centurion recognized Jesus’ power, we must acknowledge that the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in us (Romans 8:11). This means we have access to God’s authority in our lives and can bring about change, healing, and restoration in the world around us.

When we pray, we are not merely hoping for something to happen; we are exercising the authority given to us through Jesus. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) reminds us of this:

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” 🌍

Reflection and Application 💡

As we reflect on this passage, consider the following:

  • Faith in Action: How can you exercise your faith in Jesus’ authority in your life? Think of areas where you can pray boldly, trusting in His power.
  • Recognizing Authority: Are there situations where you’ve hesitated to act in faith? Reflect on the centurion’s example and remind yourself that Jesus honors genuine faith.
  • Sharing the Good News: As you recognize your authority in Christ, how can you share this message with others? Look for opportunities to encourage those around you to trust in Jesus’ authority.

Scripture to Ponder:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” — Romans 8:28 ❤️

Closing Prayer 🙏

Heavenly Father, thank You for the authority You have given us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to recognize and embrace this authority in our lives. Strengthen our faith as we step out boldly, trusting in Your power to heal and transform. May we walk confidently, knowing that we can make a difference in the world around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Conclusion 🎉

Just as the centurion’s servant was healed through faith in Jesus’ authority, we too can experience His power in our lives. Let us strive to cultivate a deep faith that recognizes and embraces the authority we have as followers of Christ. May we walk confidently, knowing that our words and actions can bring healing, hope, and transformation.

Hashtags

#Faith #AuthorityInChrist #CenturionsFaith #Healing #GodsPower #ChristianLiving #Matthew8 #GreatCommission #Romans828

Let me know if you need prayer! I would love to pray for you.

The River Youth Group, Uncategorized

🤝Wednesday Night Youth Class 10.23.24🤝

agingenglishmajor

THEME for the Week–

Victim vs. Victory: The Woman at the Well

by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

The River Church @ Eastman, Georgia

Introduction

In our journey of faith, we often find ourselves grappling with the themes of victimhood and victory. How we respond to our circumstances can shape our identity and influence our relationship with God. One powerful example of transformation is the story of the woman at the well, found in John 4:1-42. This encounter with Jesus illustrates the shift from a victim mentality to one of victory and purpose.

Scripture Reading

John 4:1-42 (NIV)

  1. Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John—
  2. although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples.
  3. So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee.
  4. Now he had to go through Samaria.
  5. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph.
  6. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.
  7. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?”
  8. (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)
  9. The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
  10. Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”
  11. “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water?
  12. Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?”
  13. Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again,
  14. but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
  15. The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.”
  16. He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.”
  17. “I have no husband,” she replied.
  18. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband.
  19. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.”
  20. “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet.
  21. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.”
  22. “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem.
  23. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews.
  24. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.
  25. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”
  26. The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.”
  27. Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.”
  28. Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?”
  29. Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people,
  30. “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?”
  31. They came out of the town and made their way toward him.
  32. Meanwhile his disciples urged him, “Rabbi, eat something.”
  33. But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you know nothing about.”
  34. Then his disciples said to each other, “Could someone have brought him food?”
  35. “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.
  36. Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.
  37. Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together.
  38. Thus the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ is true.
  39. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.”
  40. Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony. “He told me everything I ever did.”
  41. So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days.
  42. And because of his words many more became believers.

Discussion Points

  1. Understanding Her Circumstances:
    • Discuss the societal and personal factors that led the woman to the well at noon.
    • Reflect on her struggles and how they may have shaped her identity.
  2. Victim vs. Victory:
    • Explore how her conversation with Jesus shifts her perspective from victimhood to victory.
    • What transformation occurs when she embraces her identity in Christ?
  3. The Chosen Episode:

Here’s a more detailed reflection and application section to help us with our challenge this week, followed by a conclusion:

Reflection and Application

🌿 Reflection:
As we delve into the story of the woman at the well, we witness her transformation from a life marked by shame and secrecy to one of empowerment and purpose. Jesus meets her in her brokenness, and in that sacred moment, He offers her living water—something far greater than the physical water she came to draw. This exchange challenges us to reflect on our own lives:

  • Are there areas where we feel like victims due to our circumstances or past choices? 🤔
  • What burdens are we carrying that prevent us from experiencing the fullness of life God offers us?

It’s essential to recognize that Jesus sees us in our struggles, just as He saw the woman at the well. He invites us to bring our pain to Him, offering healing and a renewed sense of identity.

💧 Application: In our daily lives, we can take practical steps to shift our mindset from victimhood to victory:

  1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Take time to recognize and validate your emotions. It’s okay to feel hurt or lost, but remember that these feelings do not define you. 🙏
  2. Seek Jesus: Just as the woman encountered Christ at the well, we must seek Him in our moments of need. Spend time in prayer, inviting Him into your struggles. 📖
  3. Surround Yourself with Community: Share your journey with trusted friends or mentors who can support you. You don’t have to walk this path alone! 🤝
  4. Declare Your Victory: Speak life over your situation. Instead of allowing your circumstances to dictate your identity, declare who you are in Christ—beloved, redeemed, and victorious! ✨
  5. Share Your Story: Like the woman at the well, don’t hesitate to share your testimony with others. Your story of healing can inspire and uplift those around you. 🌈

Conclusion

As we conclude our lesson on the woman at the well, let’s carry with us the truth that Jesus offers us more than just survival; He invites us to thrive! By transforming our victim mentalities into a victory mindset, we align ourselves with His purpose and power.

Remember, the journey from victimhood to victory is not always easy, but it is a path filled with grace and hope. May we be inspired to embrace our identities as children of the Most High, empowered to impact the world around us. Just as the woman shared her story and changed lives, we too can make a difference through our experiences.

Let us pray for the courage to shed our burdens and step into the victory that Jesus has already secured for us. As we move forward, may we always remember that no matter our past, we have a future filled with hope in Him.

Hashtags

#WomanAtTheWell#VictimToVictory#FaithJourney#Transformation#HopeAndHealing#GodsGrace#ChristianLiving#Testimony#TheChosen#BibleStudy#Empowerment#OvercomingStruggles#LivingWater

The River Youth Group, Uncategorized

🙏✨Sitting in His Presence: A Lesson in Faith and Healing 🙏✨

agingenglishmajor

by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

Wednesday Night Class 10.9.24 @ 6pm The River Church 520 Dublin Hwy Eastman, GA

This week, our lesson focuses on the incredible miracle found in Mark 2:1-12, where Jesus heals the paralytic man lowered through the roof by his friends. This story is packed with profound lessons about faith, the power of being in God’s presence, and the healing that comes from surrendering ourselves to Him. But we’re also bringing this story to life by incorporating a visual element from The Chosen series!

Incorporating The Chosen 🎥

For this week’s lesson, we will be watching a scene from The Chosen, which beautifully portrays the moment the paralytic is brought to Jesus. The Chosen is a fresh and engaging take on the life of Jesus, and this particular scene allows us to see the story through the eyes of the crowd, the friends, and the man who is healed.

How This Scene Adds Depth:

  • Faith and Determination: The Chosen highlights the emotional tension and faith-driven determination of the friends who refuse to give up, even when the crowds block their way.
  • Jesus’ Compassion: Watching how Jesus interacts with the man and the crowd brings a new layer of empathy and understanding, allowing us to visualize the love and compassion He had for the paralytic.

Discussion Focus:

After viewing the scene, we’ll discuss how The Chosen brings these events to life and how it helps us reflect on the idea of being in Jesus’ presence. How does seeing this visually impact our understanding of the power of faith and healing?

Here is the link to the scene that we will focus on this week. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlBOmQ1PaMY)

Faith in Action: Overcoming Obstacles 💡

In this story, we see the determination of the paralytic’s friends. When they couldn’t get through the crowded doorway, they made the bold decision to lower their friend down through the roof! Their faith wasn’t passive; it was active and determined. They believed so strongly in Jesus’ power that they did whatever it took to get their friend into His presence.

How often do we allow obstacles to keep us from getting closer to God? Just like these friends, we need to put our faith into action and find ways to get past the challenges that hold us back from His presence. This also challenges us to reflect on how we can help others reach Jesus. Are we willing to carry our friends in prayer and faith when they feel “paralyzed” by life’s struggles?

Sitting in His Presence 🌿

Once the paralytic was in Jesus’ presence, he didn’t need to say or do anything. He just sat there, and Jesus saw his need. This is a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is simply be still in front of God.

In today’s world, we often feel pressure to do more or say more. But being in God’s presence doesn’t require constant action. There’s profound peace and healing in simply resting and allowing God to work in our hearts. Are we making space in our busy lives to sit in His presence and receive that peace?

Healing on Multiple Levels 💖

When Jesus healed the paralytic man, He first addressed the man’s spiritual needs. Before telling him to get up and walk, Jesus said, “Son, your sins are forgiven”. This moment highlights that spiritual healing is just as important—if not more important—than physical healing. Jesus didn’t just see the man’s physical paralysis; He saw the deeper spiritual wounds that needed healing.

When we come into Jesus’ presence, He meets us at our deepest needs—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This is a powerful reminder that Jesus is always ready to heal and restore us, even in the places we may not fully recognize.

Applying the Lesson:

  1. Bringing Our Own Burdens:
    Just as the paralytic’s friends carried him to Jesus, we can bring our burdens to God. This week, think about the areas in your life where you feel “paralyzed”—whether it’s by fear, guilt, or anxiety—and symbolically “lower” them before Jesus in prayer. Trust that sitting in His presence will bring the healing and peace you need.
  2. Being a Friend of Faith:
    Challenge yourself to be like the friends in this story. Who in your life needs to be brought to Jesus? Pray for those around you and consider how you can support them by bringing their needs before God.

Join Us for the Lesson 📅

We’ll be exploring this story further in our Wednesday session, focusing on what it means to sit in God’s presence and let His healing work in our lives. Together, we’ll reflect on how to strengthen our faith and support one another as we seek God’s presence. We hope you can join us for this impactful lesson!

Hashtags:

  • #FaithInAction
  • #SittingInHisPresence
  • #JesusHealing
  • #SpiritualRestoration
  • #Mark2
  • #MiraclesOfJesus
  • #TrustInGod
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✨ The Call of Nathaniel: God Sees Us in Our Doubts 🙏

agingenglishmajor

✨ The Call of Nathaniel: God Sees Us in Our Doubts 🙏by Jennifer Greene-Sullivan

Welcome, everyone! Wednesday night, we’re going to focus on a beautiful moment from scripture where Jesus calls someone who was skeptical and doubting. His name is Nathaniel. 🌿 Through his story, we’ll learn that even in our doubts and moments of uncertainty, Jesus still sees us, calls us, and has a purpose for us. 🙌

Scripture: John 1:43-51 (NIV)

“The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ Philip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. Philip found Nathaniel and told him, ‘We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.’

‘Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?’ Nathaniel asked. ‘Come and see,’ said Philip.

When Jesus saw Nathaniel approaching, he said of him, ‘Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.’
‘How do you know me?’ Nathaniel asked.

Jesus answered, ‘I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.’

Then Nathaniel declared, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.’
Jesus said, ‘You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You will see greater things than that.’ He then added, ‘Very truly I tell you, you will see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.’”

🌿 Discussion Points 🌿

1. Nathaniel’s Skepticism 🤔

Nathaniel was doubtful when Philip told him about Jesus: “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” His response shows he was skeptical about where Jesus came from.
Sometimes, we might question whether anything good can come out of our own circumstances. Like Nathaniel, we can be quick to judge situations or people based on limited information.

2. Jesus Sees Us Fully 👀

Jesus’ first words to Nathaniel are powerful: “Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.” Jesus saw the core of who Nathaniel was—honest and without pretense.
Then, Jesus says something even more incredible: “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree.” Before Nathaniel had even come to meet Him, Jesus already knew him, saw him, and understood him. 🌳

This is a reminder that Jesus sees us too. He knows our struggles, our doubts, and our hearts—yet He still calls us. 💡

3. Jesus Calls Us Despite Our Doubts 🙌

After hearing Jesus say that He saw him under the fig tree, Nathaniel’s attitude changed completely: “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.”
Jesus met Nathaniel in his skepticism, and Nathaniel’s heart opened to believe. In our own lives, we may experience doubts or uncertainty about where God is leading us, but He calls us anyway. Just like Nathaniel, God has a purpose for us beyond our doubts. 🙏

4. Seeing Greater Things ✨

Jesus promised Nathaniel that he would see even greater things than that moment of recognition: “You will see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
When we trust God, even in the face of doubt, we open ourselves up to seeing greater things in our own lives—God’s grace, miracles, and His ongoing work in us and the world around us. 🌟

Reflection Questions 🤔✍️

  • Have you ever felt skeptical or uncertain about something in your faith journey?
    Nathaniel’s doubt didn’t disqualify him from being called by Jesus. How does this encourage you in your own moments of doubt?
  • Where do you need to trust that God sees you and has a purpose for you, even when things don’t make sense?
    Like Nathaniel, we might think, “Can anything good come from this situation?” But God sees the bigger picture.

For your information: https://www.thebibleartist.com/post/simon-the-zealot-and-nathanael-in-the-chosen-adapting-biblical-characters

Another blog post:https://www.thebibleartist.com/post/philip-nathanael-matthew-exploring-the-chosen-episode-2-season-2-with-youth

Introduction to Nathaniel and the Fig Tree from The Chosenhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mlAAXwoDAA

Jesus meets Nathaniel in The Chosenhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=nQIgkmUq3Qs

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Outline for Wednesday 9/25/24 Class

agingenglishmajor

Class Outline: The Call of Nathaniel

Theme: God Sees Us and Calls Us Despite Our Doubts

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

  • Begin with a brief prayer.
  • Recap last week’s lesson for any new students.
  • Introduce today’s focus: Nathaniel’s call in The Chosen and the Bible.

2. Scripture Reading (10 minutes)
Key Texts:

  • John 1:43-51 (Jesus calls Philip and Nathaniel)
    • Highlight the key verses:
      • “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” — John 1:46
      • “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.” — John 1:48
      • “You will see greater things than these.” — John 1:50

3. Discussion on Nathaniel’s Story (10 minutes)

  • What Do We Know About Nathaniel?
    • Discuss Nathaniel’s skepticism: “Can anything good come from Nazareth?”
    • Explore the context of Nathaniel sitting under the fig tree. What might he have been thinking or experiencing?
  • Jesus Sees the Heart
    • Nathaniel’s honest doubts, and how Jesus called him anyway.
    • Jesus affirms Nathaniel by saying, “Here is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.”
  • Application: God sees us even in our moments of doubt and still calls us. He knows us intimately and has a purpose for each of us.

4. Scene from The Chosen (Optional – 10 minutes)

  • Show the scene where Jesus calls Nathaniel from The Chosen, if you have access to the clip.
    • Discuss how the scene helps bring the story to life.
    • Ask: What emotions or thoughts did you connect with in this depiction of Nathaniel?

5. Group Activity: Reflecting on Our Own Call (10-15 minutes)

  • Have students take a few moments to think about times they’ve doubted or questioned God’s plan for their life.
  • Reflection Questions:
    • Where do I feel unseen or misunderstood like Nathaniel?
    • What does it mean to me that Jesus sees me even in my doubt?
    • How can I respond to Jesus’ call to follow Him even when I’m uncertain?
  • Optional: Have students pair up to share a personal story where they’ve felt called by God.

6. Wrap-Up and Prayer (5 minutes)

  • Summarize the lesson: God sees us fully, knows our doubts, and still calls us to follow Him.
  • Close with a prayer asking for faith to trust God’s call and see the “greater things” He has planned for each of us.

Homework (Optional):

  • Student read John 1:43-51 again during the week and reflect on where they see Jesus calling them personally in their own lives.

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Over Every Situation

agingenglishmajor

Day One–Plead the Blood Over my Prodigal Situation

I left the house that day with the intent of working on myself in therapy. It was a cool November rainy day, and the crispness in the air held so many possibilities. Although at that moment, I could no more grasp hope, faith, or possibility simply because my heart ached. That ache permeated my perception of Fall, and no matter how hard I tried, that haze filled perception prevailed.  I noticed the time when I pulled back into our drive: it was 4 pm. The rain drummed a beat on the windshield with that beat trickling down my shoulders as I ran into the house. Instantly, I looked for her–my troubled sixteen year old daughter–she was gone. 

Where could she have gone? I watched the camera, and her blonde hair peaked out of her light pink camo rain jacket as she walked down our drive at 2 pm. I lost sight of her as she turned right onto the dirt road just beyond the edge of our driveway. Just like that sixteen years of love and of child rearing disappeared down a wet dirt road. I searched and screamed for her for an hour and a half, and I called everyone I knew to help locate her. At that moment, the intense panic choked out whatever logic may have remained in my mind. I begged God to protect her or to send her home, pleading through strangled breath and streaming tears.

 Another hour passed, my voice hoarse from screaming, “Sophia!” at the top of my lungs, and just as suddenly as she disappeared, she simply stepped out of the woods and said, “Ma’am?” I longed to run her down to crush her with my relief, yet my reaction shocked me: I was so angry. Why didn’t I stop and think? Why didn’t I seek Him at that moment? Certainly, this was my prodigal son moment. Wouldn’t the prodigal’s father have robbed his son and celebrated? In the parable, Jesus tells of a father who has two sons, and the youngest took his inheritance and left the family (Luke 15:11-32). In the parable, the younger son squanders the inheritance and becomes impoverished. Jesus taught “[that] the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and [IS] found.’ So they began to celebrate.” (Luke 15:22). 

How the grown child behaves is not surprising in this parable; however, the father’s response demonstrates the love of God, which always surprises me. The prodigal son’s father met his son exactly where he was: in his MESS, in his FILTH, in his SQUALLOR. The father robbed his son and celebrated with feasting. The father offered unconditional love and acceptance of his wayward child, and regardless of my biblical knowledge and my Christian belief system, I did not respond to Sophia the way I should have. I set my mind on my feelings of anger and of hurt, and my negative response to her further alienated her from me, which was not helpful to either of us. 

In every situation, I should plead the blood of Jesus so that I have a renewal of my mind and heart. Just as David asked God for a clean heart in Psalms 51:10,  I should have prayed: “create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” Yet, my attitude planted a seed of rejection in my troubled daughter’s heart. Oh how I wish I could go back to this very moment and do it over, but I praise my Savior’s name that He has taught me through my frailty and loves me through it. Christ covered me in His sacrifice and His sanctification through my salvation, and even hindsight can lead me to a better understanding of having the mind of Christ. 

My Prayer of Devotion/Day One Therefore, in this recollection and in this searching the word for YOUR answers, Lord, I ask that you lead me to that point where my only answer will always be YOU and YOUR will. Remind me of the living water–your very own word that teaches me the heart of the Father. Jesus, strip me of self so that I know YOU: “ that is not the way you learned Christ!— assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4: 20-24). Help me put on my new self the one revealed the day of my salvation in every situation, Lord, I plead the blood over myself, my family, my church family, my colleagues, and  my friends.

The River Youth Group, Uncategorized

Agenda for 6/9/21

agingenglishmajor

Do you want to be healed?

Let’s Think about Last Week

Last week, we tried to run a race in the sanctuary. I saw we TRIED to run one because we had to sit on the ground and not use our legs. Each of you decided to turn around and try to win the race by using your arms and elbows.

Yet, no one answered the question: DO YOU WANT TO BE HEALED?

Let’s think about Mary Magdalene…

What do you think is her most challenging circumstance that may present a problem with her growth in knowing God?

https://fb.watch/60BDdyOjyK/

Fight Your Battles with the Sword of the Spirit (which is the WORD of GOD) and with the HELMENT of SALVATION.

Ephesians 6:10-19New International Version

The Armor of God

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel,

NOTICE that PRAYING is at the end of the Armor of God. Prayer is the ACTIVATOR for our faith, our salvation, our gifts of the spirit, and our ability to FIGHT our BATTLES.