About shepherdbryan

My passion is to disciple and see men discipled in every area of their life to see the multiplication principle actually work in a 100 year generational blessing. As go men in the church, so goes the church. As go men in the nation, so goes the nation. Fortunately, because men have often not taken their spiritual role to the limit, God has raised up many godly women to carry the torch where men have laid it aside. May God rapidly raise up men for the next generation of leaders to the Fourth Generation of spiritual leaders! As men lead in a godly way, women will follow in a godly way and that people will be blessed of the Lord.

Life Insights: Stewardship of Space

Posted on June 1, 2013 by shepherdbryan

Life Insights: Stewardship of Space

Recently, our family just went through a move from one house to another. Our situation is a little different than most in that there are two families under the same roof. Six years ago, after my father-in-law died and I learned that my mother-in-law preferred the warmth of south Texas, rather than the unpredictable weather of Indiana. So, I asked my son-in-law if he and my daughter would like to move into our lower level, provided I finished it off.

They were doing well financially and were not in need of any assistance. At the time, I was traveling quite a bit with the National Guard visiting all fifty state headquarters and the mobilization sites, as the National Guard provided 45% of the mobilization force. It seemed like good stewardship to have our daughter and son-in-law in our home when my wife spent so much time alone in my absence.

After thinking about the option for almost three months, he said, “Sure!” So, we finished off the lower level, which provided totally separate living quarters, including bedrooms, living areas, kitchens and entrances (the old home had a walkout lower level). They moved in and three children later, everyone appreciated the relationships, the spiritual accountability and the support to each other. The house provided plenty of space to store anything we weren’t using.

Recently we decided it was time to move into a different house. We were interested in having our whole extended family stay with us and our son-in-law and family decided they wanted to stay with us also. However, I didn’t realize how much could be stored in one house. I had not torn down a barn to build a bigger barn to store things (our Homeowner’s Association did not allow barns or sheds), as Jesus warned in a parable, “So he said,`I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods.” (Luke 12:18) I had no barn, but the design allowed for room that I had not purposely planned.

There was mega-space built into the house that I did not believe existed. To me it was just a house. Fortunately, we have been trying to extract things over the previous couple years, so we were saved by several garage sales and Youth Rummage Sales at church. Yet I found out the size of the house when we moved. Just because you “can” store something, should you?

So we moved into a new home designed for a single family. That meant we’d only have one kitchen and one place to store things – the basement. Moving day came and went and we looked for the floor for several weeks.

The new house required several adjustments. The garage is barely big enough to fit the cars in, and my passenger has to wait until I pull out in order to get in. We needed to add kitchen cabinets, because what came with the house was less than half the size of “one” of the kitchens in the old house. There is no attic space to store anything above the house or the garage, which the old home had; everything had to go to the basement. But we love it just the way it is. It will help us continue to refine “what we really need to store.”

The first three weeks were like a rubrics cube trying to decide where and how to store things. We didn’t want to move something more than once, but if one thing was moved, that meant other things had to move. Trying to find realistic space for two families in one house takes thoughtfulness, planning and several attempts. Over the Memorial Day weekend, we could see the light down the tracks and we know it is not another train.

There are many books on what you should keep or what you should store. There are many people with great discernment. In all the process, I sure have learned how gracious and merciful the Lord is in all areas of life. I continue to learn how helpful family and friends are in time of need. For me, the key is fixing my eyes on Jesus, rather than the things of this world:

· Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,

· ² looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Heb. 12:1-2)

My prayer for you is that you can learn the simple way from God’s Word, rather than the way I’ve had to learn freedom in Christ.

SGL: How to encourage faithfulness in the homework preparation

Posted on May 31, 2013 by shepherdbryan

Small Group Leadership: How to encourage faithfulness in the homework preparation

My high school was in my review mirror almost forty years ago. In that 40 years, I have seen far more people struggle with a willingness to do homework than people who want to do homework. Homework is often seen as childish or something that had to be done during school and it should not be required of adults.

However, another term for homework is biblical practice and that comes from Philippians 4:9, “The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Phil. 4:9)

The unwillingness to do homework, or biblical practice, comes from people who do not understand their purpose after trusting in Jesus Christ as their Savior. Once a person becomes a child of God (John 1:12), they enter a phase of life that requires sanctification. Sanctification is the process of being set apart to God in thoughts, words and actions. Paul writes, “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality.” (1 Thes. 4:3) If God’s will is your sanctification, then you as a Christ-follower need to understand what is involved.

Sanctification is not a mystical process. It is the process of becoming set apart for the Lord Jesus Christ in His work on earth. Sanctification is accomplished by the Word, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” (John 17:17).

Sanctification is empowered by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit initially sets the believer apart to God at salvation called regeneration. (Tit. 3:5) The Holy Spirit baptizes, or identifies, the believer into the body of Christ out of the world (1 Cor. 12:13). It is the Holy Spirit who guides the believer into truth, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” (John 16:13).

Sanctification is accomplished by faith. Faith initiates God’s work in your life. There are spiritual disciplines¹ that you can practice in order to grow in your relationship with the Lord.

Homework is a major component in the sanctification process. It is the process of putting into biblical practice what you learn from Scripture (Phil. 4:9). It is a means of being a doer of the word as James writes, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (Jam. 1:22) And how do you become a doer of the Word? James continues,

· ²³ For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror;

· ²⁴ for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.

· ²⁵ But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. (Jam. 1:23-25)

How does a believer become a doer of God’s work? He becomes a doer by continuing in it, or practicing what he learn, or what we call homework. Any other attitude is complacency, laziness, or even pride.

So how can you encourage homework preparation? Here are several suggestions. First, make sure you have answered the questions. In other words, do the homework yourself. If you as the leader come unprepared, why should anyone else prepare? Doing the homework will give you insights on how you might lead the discussion and help you think of follow-up questions. Doing the homework is not so that you can provide the answers, but when there is a long pause, you may be able to prompt the discussion by providing one of the answers that you have recorded.

Secondly, tell people you are going to be discussing the questions and prep work is important. Make sure your group knows doing the homework is one of the expectations for a fruitful discussion. Doing the homework is part of being other-centered, because they are learning to contribute to the discussion rather than just soaking in the discussion. “Life is not about me,” it is about Jesus Christ and loving others. Homework prep is part of loving others.

Thirdly, let people know you are not merely talking off the cuff. Ensure people know by your page of notes completed, that you have done your work. You don’t make an issue of that completed homework, but you do have it done and it will be obvious by your facilitation that you have done your homework.

Fourthly, affirm people that the more they prepare, the better the results they will acquire from the discussion. Homework is a little like meditation. Scripture reading is an important spiritual discipline. Yet, meditation on passages of Scripture is also an important spiritual discipline that allows the Holy Spirit to guide a believer deeper into the Word. Meditation is thinking over and over on the passage, like a cow chewing its cud, so that you gain more spiritual value from God’s Word. That homework prep will provide a more fruitful discussion for the sake of the group, not just the individual. In fact, ask the people for what they have written down, not just what they think. That will enforce that they need to prepare by writing down the answers before arriving to home group.

Fifthly, affirm people in the homework done. Highlight with a testimony of one who prepared ahead of time to describe what they are learning. That testimony of God’s work as a result of doing the homework may be the prompting that will motivate another believer to ramp up their spiritual walk with the Lord and take the time to do the homework.

Homework is not schoolwork. Homework is not childish busy-work. Homework is not a curse. Homework is a part of God’s plan which shows a believer’s faithfulness and desire to please God. Homework shows his personal desire to press on to the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Your investment into doing the homework will provide a great spiritual return and ministry to other people.

¹I discussed 15 Spiritual Disciplines under the following three links. There are five disciplines discussed under each link and the last five are the most difficult disciplines to learn for Christians:

Active Disciplines: http://renewingtruth.blogspot.com/#!/2013/03/words-spiritual-disciplines.html

Active Disciplines: http://renewingtruth.blogspot.com/#!/2013/03/words-spiritual-disciplines-part-2.html

Reflective Disciplines: http://renewingtruth.blogspot.com/#!/2013/03/words-spiritual-disciplines-part-3.html

Q & A: Questioning God’s Love

Posted on May 30, 2013 by shepherdbryan

The following (below the insert information) are considerations for suggested answers to the Message Based Discussion Questions. These are designed to stimulate discussion, not to replace it. The questions are designed to promote thinking, not just give answers. Christianity will only be real when Christians can think through the issues rather than just meander through the motions. My prayer is that these will stimulate spiritual growth.

Questioning God’s Love

Malachi 1:1-5

Isaiah 38:1-3

What happens when we question God’s love?

1) God declares His burden of love 1:1-2a

· Is. 1:2-3

2) We can grow indifferent to His love 1:2b

· 1 John 2:15-17; 3:18

3) God doesn’t need to explain, but does 1:2c-5

· Gen. 25:30; 36:8

· 2 Ch. 21:8,10; Ezek. 25:12-14; Ob. 1:8

· Pro. 13:24; Mat. 6:24; Luke 14:26; [Matt. 10:37]

God’s love is strongly stated in Scripture

· God’s love for you is perfect and eternal John 3:16

· Nothing can frustrate God’s love or plan in your life 1 Cor. 10:13

· God will allow you to wander, become indifferent and forget 1 John 2:15-17

· You choose what you will pursue – God’s love or the world Ps. 26:3

· Your response determines your understanding of His love Rom. 8:31-39

There is nothing more clear than God’s love;

question God’s love and you’ll become miserable,

trust God and you’ll experience more love than you can imagine.

Message Based Discussion Questions

1) Have you ever seen a child grow indifferent to his parent’s love? How would you describe it?

Digging Deeper

2) What are Scripture passages that describe God’s love?

3) What does Romans 1:21-32 and Ephesians 4:17-19 describe? ____________________ Why do people grow indifferent toward God’s love?

4) What do you learn from the following passages about Edom (1 Kings 11:11-25; 2 Kings 14:7-10; 2 Chron. 25:19; Ps. 60:8-9; Ps. 108:9,10; 137:7; Is. 11:14; 34:5)?

Making application of the message to life:

5) Why does God allow antagonism toward His people if He loves them?

6) How would you disciple someone to understand the confidence he can have of God’s love?

7) If God was willing to explain his love to Israel, what should our response be to others when they question us? Is that response the same in every case?

Message Based Discussion Questions

1) Have you ever seen a child grow indifferent to his parent’s love? How would you describe it?

a) Yes, it’s a business relationship or friend relationship rather than a parent/child relationship.

b) The child often grows prideful in his own eyes. The child often seeks to treat the parent as a peer rather than an honored parent. The child seeks entitlements without the expectation of work, in other words, he expects care at the expense of the parent and without giving respect. He eventually disrespects the parents, because he grows up with an expectation or learned concept that they should love and he may look down his nose at them. He may feel sorry for them, but more likely grow indifferent and possibly disdain them.

c) Sometimes the child becomes introverted looking, focusing only on himself. He will close himself into an inner world of individuality or fantasy and remain aloof from others. He talks about himself, because he has not learned to be other-centered. OR, he will look for companionship with the world (Pro. 1:10-19) and be delinquent and misbehave. He will do what he does for his own gain. He remains independent of other people, because he doesn’t learn to trust them.

Digging Deeper:

2) What are Scripture passages that describe God’s love?

a) God’s provision of the gospel Gen. 3:15

b) God’s Abrahamic Covenant Gen. 12:1-3

c) God’s care for Joseph and the family Gen. 50:20

d) God’s deliverance of Isreal Ex. 14:31

e) God’s daily provision in the wilderness Ex. 16:15

f) God’s commandments Ex. 20:1-17

g) God’s abundant provisions Deut 28:1-14

h) God’s love poured out to us Rom. 5:5

i) Demonstrated on the cross Rom. 5:8

j) Nothing can separate us from God’s love Rom. 8:31-39

k) It surpasses understanding Eph. 3:19

l) He loves us John 3:16

m) It can be perfected in us 1 John 2:5

n) It can be bestowed on us 1 John 3:1

o) It causes us to love others 1 John 3:17

p) God is love 1 John 4:8-10

q) God’s love through us 1 Jn. 4:19

r) We reveal it by our obedience 1 John 5:1-3

3) What do Romans 1:21-32 and Ephesians 4:17-19 describe? _the downward spiral__ Why do people grow indifferent toward God’s love?

a) They do not honor God nor are they thankful Rom. 1:21

b) They don’t love God, so they won’t see God’s love

c) They want what they want when they want it

d) They are focused on themselves, rather than others

e) They reject God’s saving grace

f) They want to be their own god and in control of life

g) They become hardened from sin and can’t see God’s love

h) They occupy themselves with the world

4) What do you learn from the following passages about Edom (1 Kings 11:11-25; 2 Kings 14:7-10; 2 Chron. 25:19; Ps. 60:8-9; Ps. 108:9,10; 137:7; Is. 11:14; 34:5)?

a) 1Kg 11:11-25 = Hadad, from Edom, was a thorn to Solomon

b) 2 Kg 14:7-10 = There was war in Amaziah’s day with Edom

c) 2 Ch 25:19 = God used Judah to defeat Edom. We may have to do dirty work to complete God’s work.

d) Ps. 60:8-9 = Edom will be defeated and treated as waste

e) Ps. 108:9-10 = It was part of the chorus of at least a couple Psalms

f) Ps. 137:7 = Edom wanted Judah destroyed

g) Is. 11:14 = Edom will have trouble in the future; nations will rise against Edom

h) Is. 34:5 = God’s judgment will fall on Edom

Making application of the message to life:

5) Why does God allow antagonism toward His people if He loves them?

a) It shows we do not live in heaven

b) It shows sin has resulted in division and trouble

c) God allows it so we depend on Him

d) God allows it so we learn to discern when to shepherd tenderly and when to shepherd firmly

e) God allows it to exalt Himself

f) God allows it so we see He is sufficient

g) God allows it when we continue in sin

6) How would you disciple someone to understand the confidence he can have of God’s love?

a) 1 Pet. 4:8 show God’s love and cover over a multitude of sins

b) Teach them God’s character of love 1 Jn 4:8

c) Teach them many stories of God’s love actions 1 Jn 4:9-10

d) Accept him where he is and help him grow Heb. 12:5-6

e) Bring him along to visit one who is suffering and troubled

f) Show him how to love others through service and encouragement

g) Ask him to take the lead in serving others

7) If God was willing to explain his love to Israel, what should our response be to others when they question us? Is that response the same in every case?

a) We should be willing to listen to understand the person. We need to see things from his perspective, rather than assuming.

b) We need to examine ourselves, because only God is perfect and the person may be exposing something God wants addressed. We may be more focused on self than we think or we may have become complacent.

c) We need to think through the response so that it edifies the person rather than merely defend or justify self (Eph. 4:29).

d) The response will not be the same in every case.

i) Most cases require shepherding as in 1 Pet. 5:1-5

ii) Some cases require humble firmness to help the person see their waywardness 1 Tim. 5:1; 2 Tim. 2:24-26

Truth: God is merciful in all things

Posted on May 29, 2013 by shepherdbryan

God is merciful in all things

Rarely would anyone question God’s mercy. We know God is all-powerful and able to judge. Paul teaches in Romans how the attributes of God are revealed to all men, “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.” (Rom. 1:20)

Yet we only see God’s mercy through His written Word. Paul writes, “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,” (Eph. 2:4) In what way do we see God’s mercy?

First, we see God’s mercy through forgiveness of sins. Daniel, in his prayer on behalf of the nation acknowledges God’s mercy, “To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, though we have rebelled against Him.” (Dan. 9:9) In fact, David who escaped God’s judgment, proclaimed God’s mercy in Psalm 86, “For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.” (Ps. 86:5) Man falls short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23) and because of sin, man is separated from God (Rom. 6:23). Consequently, man deserves judgment in condemnation, but because of God’s mercy, God forgives and reconciles the world to Himself through Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 5:18-20).

Second, God is merciful in correction. When God uses one believer to care-front another person, that correction is merciful. That correction prevents many more sinful choices from being made. James writes, “Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, ²⁰ let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.”(Jam. 5:19-20) Covering a multitude of sins or prevention of additional sins is a demonstration of great mercy.

Thirdly, we see God’s mercy in judgment of the wicked. God’s judgment on the wicked is actually a form of mercy, because that person or group of people are prevented from committing more wickedness and hence they have less of a harsh judgment than they might have had. Jesus explained that principle when He rebuked the wicked cities,

²⁰ Then He began to rebuke the cities in which most of His mighty works had been done, because they did not repent:
²¹ “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.
²² “But I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the day of judgment than for you.
²³ “And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, will be brought down to Hades; for if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.
²⁴ “But I say to you that it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for you.” (Matt. 11:20-24)

Hence, God’s judgment is a tremendous form of mercy. When Joshua destroyed the wickedness of Canaan, that was the mercy of God in action, because it prevented greater wickedness from mounting up and spreading to other people. The wickedness is cut off and the punishment is kept at a lower level that it would have been. Unfortunately, the wicked will likely not give appreciation for God’s mercy. The wicked, however, will bow their knee and confess Jesus as Lord (Phil. 2:9-11)

God is merciful. God is merciful in forgiveness. God is merciful in correction. God is also merciful in judging and destroying the wicked. Have you praised God for His mercy today or thanked God for His mercy in forgiveness of your sins?

Life Insights: Bucket List

Posted on May 28, 2013 by shepherdbryan

Life Insights: Bucket List

I have to admit I enjoyed the comedy “Bucket List.” When a person finds out he has less than a year to live and tries to accomplish a number of adventurous things before he dies and then dies, it is rather moving to me. I like adventure. I like to do risky things. I know death is a sobering time for most people, because it causes us to reflect on what is important in life. Is a bucket list important in life?

I have heard many people say they have a bucket list. Some of the things I have heard people say they want to do, I applaud them and hope they have a good time. I have to admit, I don’t have one. I have been blessed and have traveled all over the world and accomplished many things. So for me to say, “I don’t have a bucket list,” does not mean much to people. Some often think, “If I had done what you’ve been able to enjoy, I can see why you don’t have one.” For that reason, I write this respectfully and defer to the desires of others.

Yet, at the same time, I must help you think through priorities. What is a bucket list? I have yet to hear of one person have one item about sharing the gospel with people, or leading a person in discipleship, or discipling ten people to become disciple-making people. The bucket list is always a place to go, or something earthly to do or see.

When I compare what I hear what is on a bucket list, compared to what believers in Jesus Christ will do and see in heaven, I have to admit, I do not see any comparison. I wonder, as one dear sister mentioned, “Bucket lists are made to make people’s lives more interesting.” I must admit, I have to agree with her. When we get to heaven, a bucket list will be a far distant memory at best. What we see and do in heaven will be far more vivid, far more glorious and far more exalting. The resources needed for a bucket list will be a dismal investment for eternity sake.

The enemy has filled our lives with so many things, which distract us from what is truly important. If people put as much mental, emotional and physical energy into God’s priorities as they do thinking about a bucket list, we Christians might influence our community from its downward spiral.

How intent are Christians learning how to be disciple, so they can disciple others who will be able to disciple others? How intent are people pursuing the multiplication of discipleship to honor the Lord? How intent are people denying what they want to do in order to put others first and help them in their walk with the Lord?

I see Christians content with Bible study, fellowship and attending church. Praise God for the ones who are seeking to learn multiplication! Praise God for the ones who are building bridges with others! Praise God for those who are less concerned about their own knowledge intake and are more concerned with helping others understand how to multiply!

I am encouraged every time I see people grasp the multiplication process, because the enemy hates it.

The enemy will distract people from God’s priority of discipleship at whatever level he can. He will use all the entertainment of life and of sports. People shout when their team wins a game, but the same people are dry and stoic singing praise to God in church. People plan great trips across the United States, but the same people expect the church to teach and entertain for 40 years, without their involvement in discipleship. People plan out their 50 item bucket list, but never get around to discipling another person to Jesus. Do I want you to enjoy all that God has created? Absolutely! It is God’s magnificent and beautiful world.

Enjoy a trip. Enjoy what God has created. Enjoy your vacation. Enjoy your retirement. Enjoy the adventure. Yet, don’t get distracted from God’s priorities.

I like what James says about misusing the tongue, “My friends, these things ought not to be so.” (Jam. 3:10) Let’s not misuse the time He’s given us. Let’s follow what Moses said, “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Ps. 90:12)

What’s your bucket list? Who does God want you to reach for His name sake? Who are some people you might be able to disciple? How does God want to exalt His name? How can I help you with God’s bucket list of priorities?

MSG: Questioning God’s Love

Posted on May 27, 2013 by shepherdbryan

This message was presented on May 26, 2013 as a part of the series teaching through Malachi.

Questioning God’s Love

Malachi 1:1-5

On the lighter side of the military, I remember some road marches as a private and the misery of each step after the twenty mile marker. Many years ago, before the draft was over, the third Brigade, 11^th Division was doing a two day road march in Germany. The weather was cold and rainy. The roads had become muddy. The privates in the Brigade were obeying orders.

The Brigade Commander, who was a 25 year veteran, a colonel, ordered his unit on this training mission, hoping for good weather, but facing what came. The Colonel marched with his battalions over that two day march.

On a moonless night, Private Snuffy Smith was miserable. Not knowing the person who was walking next to him was the Brigade commander with rain gear that covered his identity and his insignia, Private Snuffy leaned over to the 25 year veteran colonel, and said, “Can you believe some idiots make a career out of this?”

Have you ever been miserable, in the pit, and said, “Why God? Why does this have to happen right now? Tomorrow would be better.” OR, “Lord, if you love me, you’ll get me out of this jam. I’m going to church. I read my Bible. I pray to You. Why am I not being blessed? Lord, don’t you love me?”

Hezekiah was miserable. He was a king in Israel around B.C. 701. Isaiah records,

In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, went to him and said to him, “Thus says the LORD:`Set your house in order, for you shall die and not live.'”
²Then Hezekiah turned his face toward the wall, and prayed to the LORD,
³ and said, “Remember now, O LORD, I pray, how I have walked before You in truth and with a loyal heart, and have done what is good in Your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. (Is. 38:1-3)

Job was miserable. He lost his business, his ten children and his health when his body was covered with boils. Then his friends discouraged him implying Job was suffering because of his sins.

Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, cast into prison, forgotten by the cupbearer and left in prison. Do you think over the thirteen years he was separated from his family that he would have wondered, “God did you forget me?” Did God love Hezekiah? Did God love Job? Did God love Joseph? Does God love You?

In Malachi’s time, B.C. 425, Israel was more focused on their circumstances and concerned about the world, than pursuing God with their whole heart. Israel lacked trust in God. They grew independent from God. They were not satisfied with their condition. They did not honor God, nor were they thankful for all of His provisions. Israel forgot about God’s blessing and love for them. They became indifferent to God’s love, His law, His message and the coming Day of the Lord. What happens when we question God’s love?

1) God declares His burden of love 1:1-2a

Malachi is a series of declarations from the Lord. Israel had fallen away from God, but they did not realize they had fallen. God called Israel back in his mercy. Malachi records for us, “The burdenof the word of the LORD to Israel by Malachi.” (Mal 1:1) The word for burden is masaa which means a load or weight. God’s love is weighed down as a heavy burden, because God’s people are living like they didin’t know His love. It’s very similar to what Isaiah prophesied,

² Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth! For the LORD has spoken: “I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against Me;
³ The ox knows its owner and the donkey its master’s crib; But Israel does not know, My people do not consider.” (Is. 1:2-3)

It’s interesting that Isaiah prophesied 300 years before Malachi around B.C. 725. Malachi prophesied around B.C. 425. Both prophesies are very similar.

Then God makes His first declaration. He said, “I have loved you.” (Mal. 1:2a) How had God loved Israel? God gave the Abrahamic Covenant and every Israelite was the recipient of that unconditional covenant. God promised Israel, through Abraham, a land, a seed and a blessing. (Gen. 12:1-3) That promise was a wall of Protection and Blessing. God also delivered Israel from Egypt. (Ex. 14:30-31) God could have left them in Egypt in slavery. God provided for them in the wilderness from Egypt. (Deut. 8:4-20) Everything they needed to accomplish God’s work was available to them. They did not lack anything. God chose them (Deut. 10:15) from all the nations. And, God promised blessing if they walked in His commands. (Deut. 28:1-8) But, you say those were 1000 years before. And you are right. It’s easy to forget what was said and not think someone is still loving in their actions. Israel forgot what God said and grew indifferent to His love.

2) We can grow indifferent to His love 1:2b

Israel had forgotten where she lived, God’s land. They knew they were God’s people, but they forgot where they lived — in God’s perfect righteous plan. To them living was just getting through each day. Their sufferings and afflictions were assumed a part of the trials as they waited for the Messiah to come and rule.

Why did Israel not remember how much the Lord loved them? Israel had not regained their military strength as when David was king. They had not regained economic strength as when Solomon was king. When you are less than you once were, you easily get discouraged. It’s the challenge of growing older. You lose strength and your ability to earn a decent wage, so you think about the good ol’ days and forget how fantastic God’s love has been through the years.

Sometimes, our senses draw us into the world. John writes,

¹⁵ Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
¹⁶For all that is in the world– the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life– is not of the Father but is of the world.
¹⁷ And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. (1 John 2:15-17)

We are often more keen about our senses and those senses become our reality. We forget that God is more real than our senses and we must trust His Word all the more (2 Pet. 1:16-19). Our senses draw us to enjoy the world, but also to depend on the world, because it is what we can see, touch, hear, taste and smell. The more dependent we are on the world, the more we grow unattached to the Lord. The more unattached to the Lord, the more we will tend to question His love.

Now the question is, did they really say, “In what way have you loved us?”(Mal. 1:2b) Did they say that? We have studied how we can communicate by nonverbal communication. Our tone of voice and nonverbal expressions are actually more powerful than the content of our words. John writes that love must be more than mere words, “My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. (1 John 3:18) Love is shown by actions, not just words.

At this point, God does not need to explain Himself. He declared His love. That should be sufficient. He should not have to explain Himself, but He does.

3) God doesn’t need to explain, but does 1:2c-5

Israel had returned to the land, the temple was rebuilt, worship restored and the wall reconstructed, but Israel did not think God loved them. Who did they think was behind those actions? Did they think it was coincidence that Cyrus the Persian let them return to Israel? Did they think that Israel knew what to do in order to rebuild the temple? Did they think the reconstruction of the wall was based on their ability?

God described a major adversary had been removed. All through Israel’s history, Edom had been antagonistic. The Edomites were descendants of Esau. (Gen. 25:30; 36:8) Edom had kings long before Israel had a king, because they were far more worldly. (Gen. 36:3) The Edomites were amazed and dismayed at God’s deliverance of Israel at the Exodus. They did not want Israel out of slavery. (Ex. 15:15) When Israel desired to enter the Promised Land, Edom refused to let Israel pass through their land. The fighting continued as King Saul inflicted punishment on Edom. (1 Sam. 14:47) David put garrisons of soldiers in Edom to prevent an uprising, because they couldn’t be trusted. When Joab, David’s Chief of Staff of the Army, slew all the males of Edom, Hadad, a prince in Edom, escaped to Egypt. While there he grew in favor with the Pharaoh and married the Pharaoh’s sister-in-law. And when David died, Hadad returned and became an adversary of Solomon all the days of his life. When there was no king in Edom, Israel enjoyed relative peace. (1 Kg. 22:47) Ezra notes in 2 Chronicles 21:8, 10, “In Jehoram’s day Edom revolted against the rule of Judah, and set up a king over themselves….So Edom revolted against Judah to this day.”

Ezekiel records God’s wrathful attitude toward Edom,

¹² `Thus says the Lord GOD: “Because of what Edom did against the house of Judah by taking vengeance, and has greatly offended by avenging itself on them,”
¹³`therefore thus says the Lord GOD: “I will also stretch out My hand against Edom, cut off man and beast from it, and make it desolate from Teman; Dedan shall fall by the sword.
¹⁴ “I will lay My vengeance on Edom by the hand of My people Israel, that they may do in Edom according to My anger and according to My fury; and they shall know My vengeance,” says the Lord GOD. (Ezek. 25:12-14)

God would make sure Edom was punished. In fact, the prophecy of Obadiah is completely against Edom.

And when Edom threatened to rebuild, the Lord described Himself as “Lord of hosts,” which means Lord of the “armies.” And Edom would not rise up, literally, “until forever,” or for eternity. Malachi writes,

⁴ Even though Edom has said, “We have been impoverished, But we will return and build the desolate places,” Thus says the LORD of hosts: “They may build, but I will throw down; They shall be called the Territory of Wickedness, And the people against whom the LORD will have indignation forever. (Mal. 1:4)

Finally, God calls attention to their sense of sight when He says, “Your eyes shall see, And you shall say, `The LORD is magnified beyond the border of Israel.’ (Mal. 1:5) Your eyes – the eyes of Israel – will see God’s continual promise fulfilled and you will say “The Lord is great,” beyond the border.

Israel was acting like she had an uninvolved parent. America is filled with parents who are not involved with their children. What are characteristics of uninvolved parents and what are the effects of uninvolved parents?

Characteristics of the Uninvolved Parenting Style:

· Are emotionally distant from their children

· Offer little or no supervision

· Show little warmth, love and affection towards their children

· Have few or no expectations or demands for behavior

· Don’t attend school events or parent-teacher conferences

· May intentionally avoid their children

· Are often too overwhelmed by their own problems to deal with their children

The Effects of Uninvolved Parenting:

· Must learn to provide for themselves

· Fear becoming dependent on other people

· Are often emotionally withdrawn

· Tend to exhibit more delinquency during adolescence

· Feel fear, anxiety or stress due to the lack of family support

· Have an increased risk of substance abuse

These descriptions seem to describe parenthood in America as a whole. Today, children struggle to identify with something and make it on their own, because parents are too busy with their jobs or struggling with their lives. Let’s take a few moments and seek a little better understanding.

Understanding Uninvolved Parenting:

Researchers associate parenting styles with a range of child outcomes in areas such as social skills and academic performance. The children of uninvolved parents generally perform poorly and tend to lack in thinking, attachment, but also emotional and social skills.

Due to the lack of emotional responsiveness and love from parents, children raised by uninvolved parents may have difficulty forming attachments later in life and is why children with uninvolved parents are more likely to misbehave.

Uninvolved parents were often themselves raised by uninvolved and dismissive parents. As adults, they may repeat the same patterns of their parents. Some may simply be so caught up in their busy lives that they find it easier to take a hands-off approach to dealing with their children.

In some cases, parents may be so wrapped up in their own problems (i.e., being overworked, coping with depression, struggling with substance abuse) that they fail to see how uninvolved they are or are simply unable to provide the emotional support their children need.¹ Is God uninvolved in your life?

Before we go any further, let’s look at that expression in verses two and three, “Yet Jacob I have loved; ³ But Esau I have hated, And laid waste his mountains and his heritage For the jackals of the wilderness.” (Mal. 1:2c-3a) People are often too simplistic in their interpretation and do not look at the context for meaning. The word hate can certainly mean “wrathful hatred,” but it also denote a comparison as in the following passages:

²⁴ He who spares his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him promptly. (Pro. 13:24)

Most people think they are loving their son when they withhold the rod, but compared to true godly discipline, they are revealing hatred.

²⁴ “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. (Matt. 6:24)

Most people trying to serve two masters would never say they hate one, but in a relative comparison, Jesus says you cannot love them equally. Jesus also uses the word hate in a discipleship passage,

²⁶ “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple. (Luke 14:26)

Jesus would not ask someone to “hate” his parents, because he also directs that we honor parents for all of our lives. (Eph. 6:2) Hence the word hate here also means that God chose Jacob and loved him in a far greater way than Esau. God did not choose to bless Esau as He did Jacob. Compared to Esau, Israel was greatly loved by God.

In fact, God’s love is strongly stated in Scripture.

· God’s love for you is perfect and eternal “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

· Nothing can frustrate God’s love or plan in your life “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” (1 Cor. 10:13)

· God will allow you to wander, become indifferent and forget (1 John 2:15-17) You will have tests (like Edom) to determine your response to the Lord. Will you respond and focus on His love, or focus on the adversary, antagonism or problem? It may be a person, a job change, a personal handicap or disease.

· You choose what you will pursue – God’s love or the world. “For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes, And I have walked in Your truth.” (Ps. 26:3) David was facing the vindictiveness of his enemies, yet he chose to focus on God’s love. Let me illustrate. A child who does not sense parental love will grow up, but will not develop physically, mentally, socially, or emotionally the way he should. The child will often retreat into his own imaginary world of fantasy, just to create something he can control, until he grows up and moves out. We have a country filled with people who were not loved as children. Often people will say about children:

o Children are resilient through divorce

o Children will overcome without mom and dad

o Children need to face the world at a young age

o Let the TV babysit the children

These are true on the surface, but the hindrance results from a lack of what they could achieve. But you take a child who is loved, nurtured, trained, and given godly discipline, that child will become an effective builder in God’s kingdom. Israel was living in fear, and denied that God even loved them. She looked to the world, rather than the Lord.

· Your response determines your understanding of His love

³¹ What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
³² He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?
³³ Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.
³⁴ Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.
³⁵ Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
³⁶ As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter¹.”
³⁷ Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.
³⁸ For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come,
³⁹ nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom. 8:31-39)

No weakness, desire of the world, or influence of the angelic realm can hold back any believer who claims Christ’s victory for their own life. You are a new creature (2 Cor. 5:17), positionally dead to the flesh (Rom. 6:12-13), but the flesh fights on (Rom. 7:24). The victory is Christ’s! Let us walk in it (1 Cor. 15:57)

Will you receive it and respond to it?

There is nothing more clear than God’s love;

question God’s love and you’ll become miserable,

trust God and you’ll experience more love than you can imagine.

¹Comments are based on the article found at: http://psychology.about.com/od/childcare/f/uninvolved-parenting.htm

Message Based Discussion Questions

1) Have you ever seen a child grow indifferent to his parent’s love? How would you describe it?

Digging Deeper

2) What are passages of Scripture that describe God’s love?

3) Why do people grow indifferent toward God’s love (cf. Rom. 1:21-32; Eph. 4:17-19)?

4) What do you learn from the following passages about Edom (1 King 11:11-25; 2 King 14:7-10; 2 Chron. 25:19; Ps. 60:8-9; Ps. 108:9,10; 137:7; Is. 11:14; 34:5)?

5) Why does God allow antagonism toward His people if He loves them?

Making application of the message to life:

6) How would you disciple someone to understand the confidence he can have of God’s love?

7) If God was willing to explain his love to Israel, what should our response be to others when they question us? Is that response the same in every case?

SGL: What is the purpose of a small group?

Posted on May 26, 2013 by shepherdbryan

What is the purpose of a small group?

Many people may have many different reasons for participating in a small group, but for the small groups or home groups at Grace, there is one purpose. There are many reasons to join and many effects, but there is one purpose. That purpose is to fulfill the Great Commandment and the Great Commission in the most effective way.

The Great Commandment is:

³⁷ Jesus said to him, “`You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’
³⁸ “This is the first and great commandment.
³⁹ “And the second is like it:`You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ (Matt. 22:37-39)

The Great Commission is:

¹⁹ “Go thereforeand make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
²⁰ “teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. (Matt 28:19-20)

When you make life about God, instead of self, all things move into harmony with His will.

People often join small groups for their own reasons, just like people do everything. They want what they want when they want it. We don’t know any better when we are born and we have to be disciple to God’s will. Some people join small groups because they want to identify with a group of people, or they want to learn in a Bible study, or they want the fellowship of others in a good and safe environment. Some people join small groups because they get dragged into one by their spouse, or they join because they think they might be able to develop business relationships, or they think the leader may have something they want.

What is at the core of each of the above reasons? It’s all about self. I’m not condemning those reasons, because in themselves they are not bad, but they reveal motivations that are coming from a spiritual infant or spiritual child. Again, I’m not condemning those reasons, but the person has not grown spiritually to understand the purpose of a small group. They have not grasped the purpose of a small group, because they have not been taught the purpose, or they have not been discipled to understand the purpose, or they have heard it, but have not sealed it in their thinking.

The purpose of a small group is to help 80% of the congregation become spiritual parents, who are purposing to disciple spiritual parents.

If you have the vision of discipling spiritual parents on the part of the leadership, then all the reasons people join small groups will lead to the right goal. Spiritual infants and spiritual children always have self as the focus and that’s normal. No one condemns a spiritual infant or spiritual child for their personal actions. However, the leadership has to keep in mind the purpose, so the small group does not get off track and merely become a Bible study or social gathering as an end in itself. The enemy would gladly be content with that, if it doesn’t lead to multiplication.

When the purpose becomes a Bible study or social gathering (many try to call fellowship), it really is about self and the true purpose is hindered and the godly influence intended by the Lord into the community is hindered. Bible study should always be a main focus. Fellowship should always be a reason for small groups. But you can study the Bible over 50 lifetimes and never fully understand all there is in Scripture. God said through Hosea, “My people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge.” (Hosea 6:4) Yes! Israel didn’t have knowledge of God. That was the issue. It wasn’t that they didn’t understand the divine decree or the 8 different forms of baptism inn Scripture. They did not know the Lord.

Teachers who say you have to go to Bible study after Bible study often do it to control people and remain superior to them. They like people dependent on them or the glory of having people flock to their audiences.

When the purpose of the small group is fellowship, then the fleshly result will result in remaining in the comfort zone of those in the small group. God does not want one group of people always fit together without expanding and connecting to new people. When people say the purpose is solely fellowship, they have the attitude, “Us four and no more.”

If you keep the purpose of small groups as raising up spiritual parents, you will keep the right balance on Bible study and fellowship. Spiritual parents multiply and create more spiritual parents who grow by doing Bible study and fellowship. Let’s keep growing!

SGL: How do you handle questions when you don’t know?

Posted on May 25, 2013 by shepherdbryan

Small Group Leadership: How do you handle questions when you don’t know?

One of the great lessons from seminary was learning the three most difficult words a new pastor has to learn. The new pastor wants to look good and to help people consider him well studied and well prepared. He wants to lead his church and to demonstrate he wasn’t born yesterday. Yet, his three most difficult words he must learn, if he is going to survive with humility are, “I don’t know.”

The purpose of leading a home group is not to know all the answers. The purpose is not to do all the talking. And the purpose is not to be the “Bible Answer Man.” The purpose of small groups is to raise up spiritual parents who will be able to lead other people to become spiritual parents. Therefore, the leader cannot do all the talking. He cannot answer all the questions. He cannot be the “head honcho.” He is the facilitator to help raise up other spiritual parents. Therefore, saying, “I don’t know” should not be a problem. Consider the following ideas.

First, there will be questions that catch you off guard. For example, I was checking on a home group and the group was answering some questions about Revelation. The question was something about the New Jerusalem coming down from heaven and who would occupy it. It caught me off guard and I had to say, “I don’t know. I’ll get back with you.” So I just took some time the next day and got back with the group the next week.

Second, the issue in a difficult question is not knowing the perfect answer. Knowing the answer is good and arriving at the right answer is better, but it is also important to send the question back to others in the group and ask them what they know. Again, it’s important to get other people thinking and trying to verbalize, so they can grow spiritually and become spiritual parents. Spiritual parents don’t have to know all the answers, but they have to know the answers are found in Scripture. It’s better to show dependency on the Spirit’s guidance into God’s Word for the right answer than making up an answer that sounds right.

Thirdly, the issue is caring about the person who asks the question. It is far more important to care for the person and show unity of trying to understand God’s answer than knowing the right answer. God is far more honored by unity of thinking than brains on a stick.

Fourthly, be ready to say, “I don’t know.” Showing humility and weakness is far more valuable than trying to be the Bible Answer Man for the group. People respond to humility and weakness and will be willing to step up in spiritual leadership if they know they don’t have to have all the answers.

Fifthly, find the answer for the question. It is okay not to know the answer, but spend some time in research. It will be a blessing to you and a help in your spiritual growth. Ask others to do research, because it will stretch them and help them become better students. The discovery process and journey is far more valuable than a quick answer. It shows a diligent student who does not want to be ashamed and rightly dividing God’s Word (2 Tim. 2:15).

Sixthly, report back to the group your results. The right answer is always a joy. But to report back your results that are not definitive is alright also. You do not have to have the perfect answer when you report back. Sometimes, it is better to not have the complete answer, because, again, it helps people see that they might be able to facilitate and to lead a group themselves. That is the goal of a small group – people who are raised up to lead other groups.

When you do not know the answer to the question, say so. You can always say, “I don’t know, but I know the One who does. Let’s all do some research over the week and report back what we find.” That will stir the people up to dig into God’s Word in dependence upon the Holy Spirit to guide them into Truth. Everyone will be blessed.

Life Insights: Memorial Day

Posted on May 24, 2013 by shepherdbryan

The General Order below by General John Logan was given on May 5, 1868 following the Civil War that divided the Union of American States. It was first observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. Healing had begun and Memorial Day was a day to reunite all American people. New York was the first state to recognize the holiday in 1873. It was moved to the last Monday in May by Congress in 1971 to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays.

The day will be commemorated by parades, speeches, fragrant flowers of memories and prayer for those who have given their lives in the service of this great nation and the cause of freedom.

General Order
No. 11

Headquarters, Grand Army of the Republic
Washington, D.C., May 5, 1868

I. The 30th day of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form or ceremony is prescribed, but posts and comrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.

We are organized, comrades, as our regulations tell us, for the purpose, among other things, “of preserving and strengthening those kind and fraternal feelings which have bound together the soldiers, sailors, and marines who united to suppress the late rebellion.” What can aid more to assure this result than by cherishing tenderly the memory of our heroic dead, who made their breasts a barricade between our country and its foe? Their soldier lives were the reveille of freedom to a race in chains, and their death a tattoo of rebellious tyranny in arms. We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. All that the consecrated wealth and taste of the Nation can add to their adornment and security is but a fitting tribute to the memory of her slain defenders. Let no wanton foot tread rudely on such hallowed grounds. Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and found mourners. Let no vandalism of avarice or neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten, as a people, the cost of free and undivided republic.

If other eyes grow dull and other hands slack, and other hearts cold in the solemn trust, ours shall keep it well as long as the light and warmth of life remain in us.

Let us, then, at the time appointed, gather around their sacred remains and garland the passionless mounds above them with choicest flowers of springtime; let us raise above them the dear old flag they saved from dishonor; let us in this solemn presence renew our pledges to aid and assist those whom they have left among us as sacred charges upon the Nation’s gratitude,–the soldier’s and sailor’s widow and orphan.

II. It is the purpose of the Commander-in-Chief to inaugurate this observance with the hope it will be kept up from year to year, while a survivor of the war remains to honor the memory of his departed comrades. He earnestly desires the public press to call attention to this Order, and lend its friendly aid in bringing it to the notice of comrades in all parts of the country in time for simultaneous compliance therewith.

III. Department commanders will use every effort to make this order effective.

By command of:
JOHN A. LOGAN,
Commander-in-Chief.

N. P. CHIPMAN,
Adjutant-General.

May we never forget!

Q & A: Silent Treatment Prelude – Malachi Introduction

Posted on May 23, 2013 by shepherdbryan

The following are suggested answers for the Message Based Discussion Questions for the message posted on May 20, 2013. These will hopefully begin the thought process, but not replace the thought process. How would you answer the questions?

Silent Treatment Prelude

Malachi Introduction

(May 19, 2013)

Why is there divine silence after Malachi? Malachi 2:17

They asked:

1:2 In what way have You loved us?

1:6 In what way have we despised Your name?

1:7 In what way have we defiled You?

1:9 But now will you not entreat God’s favor, that He may be gracious to us? Where’s our blessing?

1:12-13 Oh, what a weariness! the assemblies and sacrifices…

2:13-14 you cover the altar of the Lord with tears..For what reason?

2:17 In what way have we wearied Him?

3:8 In what way have we robbed You?

3:13 What have we spoken against You?

3:14 What profit is it that we have kept His charge?

Today, you ought to ask:

1:2 Do I experience God’s love for me?

1:6 Do I treat God’s name as holy?

1:7 Do I approach God with reverence, awe and holiness?

1:9 Do I ask for blessing, when I am not in fellowship with Him because of sin?

1:13 Do I say, how tiresome it is to assemble for church?

2:13-14 Do I grumble about my situation and not trust God’s sovereignty?

2:17 Do I go through religious rituals without passion?

3:8 Do I keep from the Lord my time, talents, and treasures?

3:13 Do I make light of God and grumble or blame-shift?

3:14 Do I act like obedience is a duty, rather than a joyous response?

1) Israel is indifferent to God’s love Malachi 1

2) Israel is indifferent to God’s law Malachi 2

3) Israel is indifferent to God’s message Malachi 3

4) Israel is indifferent to the Day of the Lord Malachi 4

1) Author – Malachi – “My Messenger.”

2) The Religious Setting – Israel was in the pits. While the Lord reached down to pull Israel out, Israel said, “We’re not in a pit.”

· Israel was indifferent, rather than eagerly waiting: Religiously 1:6-10; 2:17; Morally 2:11-16; Socially 3:5; Materially 3:8-10

· Failure to remember God’s covenant1:2-5; 4:4; cf. Deut. 8:3-14

3) Christ in Malachi:

· “Great King” Mal. 1:14

· “The Messenger of the Covenant” Mal. 3:1

· “The Sun of Righteousness” Mal. 4:2

Respond in awe to God’s Word or hear His silence.

Message Based Discussion Questions

1) How does it make you feel when someone you love gives you the silent treatment?

Digging Deeper:

2) What was the problem in the church of Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22)? How is it the same as Israel in the time of Malachi?

3) How would you describe how people communicate without saying anything? What do the following passages say about non-verbal communication (Gen. 3:7-10; 4:5-6; 40:6-7; Josh 7:6; 1 Sam. 18:4; 1 King 9:3-4; 21:4; 1 John 3:17)? What do you think people are saying to God by their actions?

4) How would you describe Israel in the time of Malachi religiously (Mal. 1:6-10); morally (Mal. 2:11-16); socially (Mal. 3:5); and economically (Mal. 3:8-10)?

Making application from the message to life:

5) What was God’s message through Jeremiah to Israel in Jeremiah 14:13 – 15:6? Do you suppose God has a point or line that when crossed He says, “Enough!”? What discernment should that give us in life application?

6) How do you think USA would fare related to a message like Malachi? What do you think would be said if USA were a biblically chosen people by God?

7) What are spiritual indicators of “indifference” or “anticipation”?

Message Based Discussion Questions

1) How does it make you feel when someone you love gives you the silent treatment?

a) “What is going on with their life?”

b) “Did I do something to offend them?”

c) “I wonder if they are having a bad day?”

d) “Did I forget something?”

e) “I wonder when we can talk?”

Digging Deeper:

2) What was the problem in the church of Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22)? How is it the same as Israel in the time of Malachi?

a) Laodicea was indifferent toward the Lord.

i) They thought they were doing well.

ii) They thought they had their act together and were well off.

iii) They didn’t know their standing before God.

b) Laodicea didn’t realize they were living in their own standards, independent of the Lord.

i) They were living in denial of the Lord’s holiness.

ii) They were comfortable with their own level of holy achievement.

iii) They needed to seek after the Lord’s face and acquire what He wanted for them.

iv) They didn’t realize God’s attitude of wanting to spew them out of His mouth.

v) They went through the religious rituals without thinking about them and without dependency on the Lord.

3) How would you describe how people communicate without saying anything? What do the following passages say about non-verbal communication (Gen. 3:7-10; 4:5-6; 40:6-7; Josh 7:6; 1 Sam. 18:4; 1 King 19:3-4; 21:4; 1 John 3:17)? What do you think people are saying to God by their actions?

a) Our tone of voice and non-verbal communication is far more powerful than the content of our words. The medium of communication is more powerful than the actual words. That is why texting or email can be dangerous – you might be thinking your words are conveyed politely, but someone who thinks otherwise, might read your words as from someone who is angry.

b) The following passages communicate through non-verbals:

i) Gen. 3:7-10- hiding = conviction of sin and fear of the Lord

ii) Gen. 4:5-6 – anger = Cain’s countenance had fallen. He didn’t get his way and was mad at God for not accepting what he thought would be a good sacrifice.

iii) Gen. 40:6-7 – sad countenances of the baker and cup bearer. They had dreams that they did not understand. They hadn’t said anything yet.

iv) Josh 7:6 – tore clothes = he knew something had gone wrong and tearing of the clothes is a sign of repentance. He was seeking answers from the Lord.

v) 1 Sam. 18:4 – Jonathan gave David his armor = this was a sign of genuine friendship and protection.

vi) 1 King 19:3-4 – Elijah ran, because he was afraid of Jezebel. He had just stood up against 450 prophets, but he ran from one woman. After victory, there is vulnerability for defeat. Elijah ran in fear – defeat.

vii) 1 King 21:4 – Ahab laid down and turned his head away and would not eat = he was full of self-pity, because he didn’t get his way.

viii) 1 John 3:17- giving to the needy = sign of God’s love moving through the believer.

c) Our actions are more powerful than our words.

4) How would you describe Israel in the time of Malachi religiously (Mal. 1:6-10); morally (Mal. 2:11-16); socially (Mal. 3:5); and economically (Mal. 3:8-10)?

a) Religiously (Mal. 1:6-10) – They questioned God and were wondering if religion was worth it.

b) Morally (Mal. 2:11-16) – They dealt treacherously in their marriages by infidelity and lack of oneness with their mates. They were failing to raise up a godly offspring.

c) Socially (Mal. 3:5) – They were involved with sorcerers, perjurers and adulterers, but would not reach out to the widows and aliens.

d) Economically (Mal. 3:8-10) – They didn’t think what they gave really mattered. They didn’t think the lack of giving was actually robbing what belonged to God.

Making application from the message to life:

a) I’ve heard enough. Your tears don’t matter to me. Judgment is coming and I will not stop it.

b) There is a line that when crossed, He says, “Enough,” and will impose divine discipline or divine punishment.

c) We ought to walk in the fear of the Lord and not trust ourselves.

6) How do you think USA would fare related to a message like Malachi? What do you think would be said if USA were a biblically chosen people by God?

a) The USA is a mirror to Israel right now.

b) If the USA was biblically chosen as a people of God, it should prepare itself for silence from God, that is removal of God’s Word from the country. That is going on in all areas of life.

7) What are spiritual indicators of “indifference” or “anticipation”?

a) Spiritual indicators of indifference are:

i) Attending church, but not singing.

ii) Attending church, but not giving, serving, leading, teaching, helping.

iii) Living one way on Sunday and another way the rest of the week.

iv) Taking a Bible to church, but not reading it at home.

v) Taking your family to church, but not leading the family at home.

vi) Looking spiritual, but not enjoying the presence of the Lord.

vii) A Bible that looks new, but is ten years old.

b) Spiritual indicators of anticipation are:

i) Preparing for corporate worship beginning on Monday.

ii) Willingness and readiness to give, lead, serve and help at church.

iii) A spiritually passionate life all through the week.

iv) A regular devotional life at home throughout the week.

v) Humbly recognizing the inability to walk spiritually apart from the filling of the Holy Spirit.

vi) Leading your family at home into Scripture throughout the week as well as on Sunday.

vii) Passionate about the presence of the Lord (Ps. 16:11).

Shepherding Truth

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