Genesis 48
- Joseph was told Israel was about to did so Joseph took his 2 sons to visit Israel.
- What did Jacob mean when he said Joseph's 2 sons will be his and later children would be yours?
- Rachel was buried in Ephrath (also know as Bethlehem).
- Why hadn't Joseph let Jacob meet his 2 sons before?
- Jacob was going blind and embraced his grandchildren.
- Joseph took Manasseh toward Jacob's right hand and Ephraim toward Jacob's left hand so that he might bless them.
- Jacob crossed his arms and laid his right hand on Ephraim (the younger son)
- Joseph was mad at this, but Jacob knew what he was doing and blessed the younger son.
- Why did Jacob choose to bless Ephraim?
- Jacob gave Joseph (not his brothers) a mountain slope in Canaan.
Job 14
- Job focuses on the fleeting time man has on earth.
- God has appointed man's limits which he cannot pass.
- Man once dead is unable to do anything.
- Job wants God to remember him after the heavens pass away.
- Even in agony, Job longs for a Savior to take away the guilt of his sins when he says,"my transgression would be sealed up in a bag,and you would cover over my iniquity."
- Death is unbeatable and all men must face it. Death is final.
Luke 1:39 - 80
- Mary went to visit Elizabeth and when she entered the house baby John jumped for joy in the womb and the Holy Spirit spoke through Elizabeth.
- Elizabeth also said Mary would be blessed because of her trust and belief.
- Mary said her should magnifies the Lord (ours should do the same)
- She gives credit to God for her being called blessed.
- Mary recalled all of God's just acts of righteousness along with His acts of mercy on Israel all the way back to the days of Abraham.
- Mary stayed with Elizabeth for 3 months
- Did Mary leave just before John was born since she had stayed there for 3 months and became pregnant herself in Elizabeth's 6th month of pregnancy?
- They circumcise and name the baby on day 8 according to the commandment given to Abraham.
- Elizabeth said they would name the baby John, but the relatives objected because this was NOT a family name.
- When did the custom of keeping family names start since they seem to be lacking in other OT books?
- Zechariah wrote John's name on a tablet and in that very moment he regained his ability to speak and all the people there were amazed and knew John would be a special child.
- Zechariah was aware that OT prophecies were being fulfilled through his son.
- v. 74 Aren't we suppose to serve God with reverence and fear?
- Zechariah is aware that his son will prepare the way for the Lord who will forgive the sins of the people.
- The sun will rise on darkness and those "in the shadow of death" (Psalms reference) and lead people into the way of peace.
- John grew stronger in the Spirit and lived in the wilderness until his time for ministry.
- Wasn't John filled with the spirit before birth, so why did he have to grow in the spirit?
- Are there different levels of the spirit that we can have?
1 Corinthians 2
- Paul starts off by telling the Corinthians that he speaks to them in words from the spirit, not in his own wisdom.
- Paul is saying the truly wise impart wisdom of God not wisdom of men.
- Paul says that people in this age did not understand wisdom of the Spirit or they would not have killed Christ.
- As each spirit knows each person, so spirit of God knows God.
- We have received spirit of God so that we might understand things of God.
- The "natural person" cannot discern the things of God, only the "spiritual person" can.
- We have the "mind of Christ" if we have the Holy Spirit.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Genesis 47 - Job 13 - Luke 1:1-38 - 1 Corinthians 1
Genesis 47
- Joseph's brothers told Pharaoh that they were shepherds, and Pharaoh told them to settle in the best land.
- Jacob was 130 when he entered Egypt and died at age 147.
- Jacob blessed Pharaoh.
- Why would a Jew bless an Egyptian?
- Joseph provided his family with food.
- Does this mean that Joseph's family didn't have to sell their livestock, land, or persons into Pharaoh's slavery?
- All the people's money in Egypt and Canaan was gone because they had used it on food, so Joseph tells the people to sell their livestock to him for food.
- The people finally sell their land and themselves to Pharaoh in order to save themselves from starvation.
- Pharaoh now owned all the people and their land, except for that of the priests, who were given a certain amount of food each day.
- Joseph said that after the famine ended the people would give 1/5 of their crop to Pharaoh and keep the rest for themselves.
- Why is Pharaoh's tithe twice that of God's tithe?
- The people were fruitful and had multiplied "greatly" when Jacob died.
- Jacob had Joseph promise to bury him in the land of his fathers, not in Egypt, and Joseph made this promise to his father.
Job 13
- Why does Job now want to argue his case with God when several chapters back he said who can speak before God?
- What have his friends said to him that is a lie?
- Job asks how they will stack up when God judges them.
- v.15 has 2 interpretations, one is profound, the other seems to add to Job's hopelessness. The verse that is used says, 'Though He slay me, I will hope in Him". The footnote says it can also mean, "He will slay me, I have no hope" Why the huge difference in meaning in this translation?
- Job asks for 2 things: that God would withdraw His hand from Job and that Job would not dread God.
- Job wants to speak with God.
- Job wants God to tell him his sins and wrong doings.
- What does Job mean when he says that God "makes him inherits the sins of his youth? Doesn't this null and void Job being perfect and righteous before God?
Luke 1:1 -38
- Luke writes this book to Theophilus to give an orderly account of what he has been taught.
- Who is Theophilus?
- Zechariah was chosen by lot to enter the temple and burn incense.
- Zechariah and Elizabeth, his wife, were righteous before God.
- Zechariah saw Gabriel, the angel, and asked "How shall I know this?" (referring to Elizabeth bearing him a son in her old age). Gabriel struck Zechariah mute for his unbelief.
- The angel said that John shall not drink wine and will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth.
- John would go before "him" in the power of Elijah, which the people were waiting to happen to fulfil the OT prophecies.
- Elizabeth became pregnant.
- Gabriel went to Mary and told her that she would bear a son, the Son of God.
- Mary asked, "How will this be since I am a virgin?". Gabriel answered this question and Mary said to let it be as you have said.
- Mary's question did not challenge God's power as much ask a practical question whose answer would again show God's power in all things.
- Mary and Elizabeth were related, so John the baptist and Jesus were distant relatives too. (Though John would be 15 months older than Jesus)
1 Corinthians 1
- Paul gives thanks for them and the workings of God in them.
- Paul addresses the divisions in their midst; some people are choosing different leaders, like Paul or Peter to put their hope in.
- Paul rebukes them for this and says it was not by "his" power he did anything among them but by the power of God.
- Christ is not divided and neither should the Corinthians be divided.
- The cross is foolish to the unsaved and the uncalled, but is wisdom to the elect.
- Jews demand sign and Greeks seek wisdom. Paul here points out that God chose the foolish and the weak to shame those who think this way.
- Even the Corinthians themselves are nothing special, but God chose them to shame the wise of that area.
- Humans have nothing to boast in before God (look at Job)
- Paul reminds them that " you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption"
- The Corinthians have been chosen by God
- Joseph's brothers told Pharaoh that they were shepherds, and Pharaoh told them to settle in the best land.
- Jacob was 130 when he entered Egypt and died at age 147.
- Jacob blessed Pharaoh.
- Why would a Jew bless an Egyptian?
- Joseph provided his family with food.
- Does this mean that Joseph's family didn't have to sell their livestock, land, or persons into Pharaoh's slavery?
- All the people's money in Egypt and Canaan was gone because they had used it on food, so Joseph tells the people to sell their livestock to him for food.
- The people finally sell their land and themselves to Pharaoh in order to save themselves from starvation.
- Pharaoh now owned all the people and their land, except for that of the priests, who were given a certain amount of food each day.
- Joseph said that after the famine ended the people would give 1/5 of their crop to Pharaoh and keep the rest for themselves.
- Why is Pharaoh's tithe twice that of God's tithe?
- The people were fruitful and had multiplied "greatly" when Jacob died.
- Jacob had Joseph promise to bury him in the land of his fathers, not in Egypt, and Joseph made this promise to his father.
Job 13
- Why does Job now want to argue his case with God when several chapters back he said who can speak before God?
- What have his friends said to him that is a lie?
- Job asks how they will stack up when God judges them.
- v.15 has 2 interpretations, one is profound, the other seems to add to Job's hopelessness. The verse that is used says, 'Though He slay me, I will hope in Him". The footnote says it can also mean, "He will slay me, I have no hope" Why the huge difference in meaning in this translation?
- Job asks for 2 things: that God would withdraw His hand from Job and that Job would not dread God.
- Job wants to speak with God.
- Job wants God to tell him his sins and wrong doings.
- What does Job mean when he says that God "makes him inherits the sins of his youth? Doesn't this null and void Job being perfect and righteous before God?
Luke 1:1 -38
- Luke writes this book to Theophilus to give an orderly account of what he has been taught.
- Who is Theophilus?
- Zechariah was chosen by lot to enter the temple and burn incense.
- Zechariah and Elizabeth, his wife, were righteous before God.
- Zechariah saw Gabriel, the angel, and asked "How shall I know this?" (referring to Elizabeth bearing him a son in her old age). Gabriel struck Zechariah mute for his unbelief.
- The angel said that John shall not drink wine and will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth.
- John would go before "him" in the power of Elijah, which the people were waiting to happen to fulfil the OT prophecies.
- Elizabeth became pregnant.
- Gabriel went to Mary and told her that she would bear a son, the Son of God.
- Mary asked, "How will this be since I am a virgin?". Gabriel answered this question and Mary said to let it be as you have said.
- Mary's question did not challenge God's power as much ask a practical question whose answer would again show God's power in all things.
- Mary and Elizabeth were related, so John the baptist and Jesus were distant relatives too. (Though John would be 15 months older than Jesus)
1 Corinthians 1
- Paul gives thanks for them and the workings of God in them.
- Paul addresses the divisions in their midst; some people are choosing different leaders, like Paul or Peter to put their hope in.
- Paul rebukes them for this and says it was not by "his" power he did anything among them but by the power of God.
- Christ is not divided and neither should the Corinthians be divided.
- The cross is foolish to the unsaved and the uncalled, but is wisdom to the elect.
- Jews demand sign and Greeks seek wisdom. Paul here points out that God chose the foolish and the weak to shame those who think this way.
- Even the Corinthians themselves are nothing special, but God chose them to shame the wise of that area.
- Humans have nothing to boast in before God (look at Job)
- Paul reminds them that " you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption"
- The Corinthians have been chosen by God
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Genesis 46 - Job 12 - Mark 16 - Romans 16
Genesis 46
- Jacob brings everyone in his family into Goshen in Egypt. Genealogies are listed and I have not heard of most of the names before.
- There were 70 total people who came with Jacob into Egypt along with their livestock to settle in Goshen.
- Serah is the only other daughter listed besides Dinah.
- Is there a reason for listing her since she is a girl?
- Joseph's 2 sons; Ephraim and Manasseh are the only familiar names in the next generation.
- Jacob sent Judah ahead to lead the way and Joseph came out to meet them and wept when he saw his father.
- Why did Joseph want his family to say they raised livestock if that is an "abomination" to Egyptians?
Job 12
- Job gives his friends due credit for speaking wisely, but then proclaims himself to not be inferior to them.
- Why is Job considering himself a laughingstock?
- How long does this conversation last after Job's misfortunes?
- Job sees peace for people with gods in hand.
- Job then gives a lengthy speech showing all the ways God is sovereign over everything in life and nature.
- Job knows that the hand of God has done these things to him.
- Is Job referring to the story of Moses leaving Egypt at the end of this chapter?
Mark 16
- How many Marys were there at Jesus' death?
- Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Salome went into the tomb and saw an angel who told them Jesus had risen.
- Why does verse 8 conclude by saying "They told no one, when the angel had told them to tell the disciples?
- How did verses 9 -20 get added if they were not in earlier manuscripts?
- Is the "additional Latin verse" from the original script and did Jesus himself proclaim the gospel for a time in the east and west (Isn't this what the Mormons also believe?)
- Disciples didn't believe the Marys or the 2 others who saw Jesus.
- Jesus rebuked all of their unbelief when he saw them, not just Thomas.
- The great commission, Jesus instructs the disciples to go and preach the Gospel, baptizing, so that many may be saved.
- New believers will cast out demons, pick up snakes (like Paul did in Acts), speak in new tongues (also in Acts), healing the sick (also fulfilled in Acts).
Romans 16
- Paul addresses the many Christians who are in Roman some of them being; Epaenetus, the first Asian convert, Andronicus and Junia (who were believers before Paul), and many others.
- Paul is really promoting unity amongst all Christians.
- Paul has many deep, close friendships that he hold dear to him.
- Paul warns to watch out for people who cause divisions in the church and mislead the naive.
- God will soon crush Satan. (Thinking of the future)
- Tertius wrote the book of Romans for Paul (Are these greetings from Paul or Tertius?)
- The Gospel of Christ was a secret kept for "long ages" and revealed in OT prophetic writing.
- Jacob brings everyone in his family into Goshen in Egypt. Genealogies are listed and I have not heard of most of the names before.
- There were 70 total people who came with Jacob into Egypt along with their livestock to settle in Goshen.
- Serah is the only other daughter listed besides Dinah.
- Is there a reason for listing her since she is a girl?
- Joseph's 2 sons; Ephraim and Manasseh are the only familiar names in the next generation.
- Jacob sent Judah ahead to lead the way and Joseph came out to meet them and wept when he saw his father.
- Why did Joseph want his family to say they raised livestock if that is an "abomination" to Egyptians?
Job 12
- Job gives his friends due credit for speaking wisely, but then proclaims himself to not be inferior to them.
- Why is Job considering himself a laughingstock?
- How long does this conversation last after Job's misfortunes?
- Job sees peace for people with gods in hand.
- Job then gives a lengthy speech showing all the ways God is sovereign over everything in life and nature.
- Job knows that the hand of God has done these things to him.
- Is Job referring to the story of Moses leaving Egypt at the end of this chapter?
Mark 16
- How many Marys were there at Jesus' death?
- Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Salome went into the tomb and saw an angel who told them Jesus had risen.
- Why does verse 8 conclude by saying "They told no one, when the angel had told them to tell the disciples?
- How did verses 9 -20 get added if they were not in earlier manuscripts?
- Is the "additional Latin verse" from the original script and did Jesus himself proclaim the gospel for a time in the east and west (Isn't this what the Mormons also believe?)
- Disciples didn't believe the Marys or the 2 others who saw Jesus.
- Jesus rebuked all of their unbelief when he saw them, not just Thomas.
- The great commission, Jesus instructs the disciples to go and preach the Gospel, baptizing, so that many may be saved.
- New believers will cast out demons, pick up snakes (like Paul did in Acts), speak in new tongues (also in Acts), healing the sick (also fulfilled in Acts).
Romans 16
- Paul addresses the many Christians who are in Roman some of them being; Epaenetus, the first Asian convert, Andronicus and Junia (who were believers before Paul), and many others.
- Paul is really promoting unity amongst all Christians.
- Paul has many deep, close friendships that he hold dear to him.
- Paul warns to watch out for people who cause divisions in the church and mislead the naive.
- God will soon crush Satan. (Thinking of the future)
- Tertius wrote the book of Romans for Paul (Are these greetings from Paul or Tertius?)
- The Gospel of Christ was a secret kept for "long ages" and revealed in OT prophetic writing.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Genesis 45 - Job 11 - Mark 15 - Romans 15
Genesis 45
- Joseph finally breaks down and reveals himself to his brothers.
- Joseph wept so loudly that everyone in the house heard him.
- Joseph's response could have been anger, but he told his brothers not to be angry with themselves because God meant his being in Egypt for the good of everyone.
- Joseph said it was God, not his brothers that sent him to Egypt.
- Joseph tells his brothers to go get their father and come dwell in Goshen for the remaining 5 years of the famine so they might not be impoverished.
- Joseph wept for Benjamin and for his brothers, and although it says Benjamin wept it does NOT say how the other brothers reacted.
- When Pharaoh heard what had happened he commanded Joseph to take a cart and bring his family and they would enjoy the best of Egypt.
- What happened to Egyptians not mixing with Hebrews?
- Joseph again gives Benjamin 5 times the goods, and orders his brothers not to quarrel.
- They arrive and tell Jacob but he does not believe them (because he had seen Joseph's torn, bloody coat)
- Jacob's spirit (which had been in worry) was revived because he would see Joseph again before he died.
Job 11
- Zophar answers Job and asks why Job claims to be pure and clean but God's wisdom sees and understands more than man can see or know.
- Zophar tells Job that God has still enacted less than Job's guilt deserves.
- It is impossible to find out the limits of God because He is limitless.
- God cannot overlook iniquity. He sees it all.
- Job needs to prepare his heart and turn toward God.
- Zophar tells Job to put off iniquity and then he will be able to lift his head toward God (This seems to be Job's problem, that he doesn't know what he has done wrong).
- Zophar tells Job that there will be a time when he forgets these trials that are presently overwhelming him.
Mark 15
- Pilate questioned Jesus, but Jesus did not answer the Jews' accusations but remained silent which amazed Pilate.
- Pilate offered to release Barabbas or Jesus to the crowd as was his custom, and the Jews had the crowds shout for Barabbas.
- Pilate knew it was out of envy that Jesus was there.
- The guards dressed Jesus in robes and twisted on Him a crown of thorns and mocked Him.
- Mark's account of the Crucifixion is very brief.
- Jesus was crucified at the 3rd hour with two robbers.
- The Jews mocked Him with His own words about destroying the temple and they also mocked the fact they he couldn't (He chose not to) save Himself. (The ironic thing is IF He had chosen to come down from the cross we could not have been forgiven of our sins before God. Christ chose to stay their for our sins).
-6th hour darkness entered the land and in the 9th hour (6 hours after He had been crucified) Jesus called our to God and breathed His last.
- The people thought He might call for Elijah.
- What were the prophecies about Elijah's return?
- The 2 Marys listed here did not include Jesus' mother.
- A centurion watching the whole thing saw what had happened and believed He was the Son of God.
- Who is the "him" they refer to in v. 41 where it says, "When he was in Galilee, they followed him and ministered to him, and there were also many other women who came up with him to Jerusalem."?
- Joseph of Aramethea asked Pilate for Jesus' body.
- Pilate was surprised Jesus died so quickly but gave Joseph the body.
- Joseph wrapped the body in a shroud and buried Him in a tomb.
- Who was Mary mother of Joses? Who was Joses?
Romans 15
- Paul says we have an obligation (duty) to bear with the weak.
- In Jesus we are able to live in harmony with one another.
- Paul quotes 4 OT references that proclaim good news to the Gentiles.
- Joy and Peace lead to hope through the Spirit.
- Paul says to the Romans that he is satisfied with their goodness and faith, but still on some points Paul warns them "very boldly".
- Paul states that everything he does is because of and for the gospel.
- When Paul says he doesn't want to build on others foundations, isn't that being arrogant or proud?
- Paul longs to go to Rome but first he must go back to Jerusalem and give money to the poor there that the Gentiles have given.
- Why would the Gentiles "owe" the poor in Jerusalem anything?
- Paul is planning to visit Rome on his way to Spain.
- Does Paul ever make it to Spain?
- Paul big push is for the believers in Rome to be at peace.
- Joseph finally breaks down and reveals himself to his brothers.
- Joseph wept so loudly that everyone in the house heard him.
- Joseph's response could have been anger, but he told his brothers not to be angry with themselves because God meant his being in Egypt for the good of everyone.
- Joseph said it was God, not his brothers that sent him to Egypt.
- Joseph tells his brothers to go get their father and come dwell in Goshen for the remaining 5 years of the famine so they might not be impoverished.
- Joseph wept for Benjamin and for his brothers, and although it says Benjamin wept it does NOT say how the other brothers reacted.
- When Pharaoh heard what had happened he commanded Joseph to take a cart and bring his family and they would enjoy the best of Egypt.
- What happened to Egyptians not mixing with Hebrews?
- Joseph again gives Benjamin 5 times the goods, and orders his brothers not to quarrel.
- They arrive and tell Jacob but he does not believe them (because he had seen Joseph's torn, bloody coat)
- Jacob's spirit (which had been in worry) was revived because he would see Joseph again before he died.
Job 11
- Zophar answers Job and asks why Job claims to be pure and clean but God's wisdom sees and understands more than man can see or know.
- Zophar tells Job that God has still enacted less than Job's guilt deserves.
- It is impossible to find out the limits of God because He is limitless.
- God cannot overlook iniquity. He sees it all.
- Job needs to prepare his heart and turn toward God.
- Zophar tells Job to put off iniquity and then he will be able to lift his head toward God (This seems to be Job's problem, that he doesn't know what he has done wrong).
- Zophar tells Job that there will be a time when he forgets these trials that are presently overwhelming him.
Mark 15
- Pilate questioned Jesus, but Jesus did not answer the Jews' accusations but remained silent which amazed Pilate.
- Pilate offered to release Barabbas or Jesus to the crowd as was his custom, and the Jews had the crowds shout for Barabbas.
- Pilate knew it was out of envy that Jesus was there.
- The guards dressed Jesus in robes and twisted on Him a crown of thorns and mocked Him.
- Mark's account of the Crucifixion is very brief.
- Jesus was crucified at the 3rd hour with two robbers.
- The Jews mocked Him with His own words about destroying the temple and they also mocked the fact they he couldn't (He chose not to) save Himself. (The ironic thing is IF He had chosen to come down from the cross we could not have been forgiven of our sins before God. Christ chose to stay their for our sins).
-6th hour darkness entered the land and in the 9th hour (6 hours after He had been crucified) Jesus called our to God and breathed His last.
- The people thought He might call for Elijah.
- What were the prophecies about Elijah's return?
- The 2 Marys listed here did not include Jesus' mother.
- A centurion watching the whole thing saw what had happened and believed He was the Son of God.
- Who is the "him" they refer to in v. 41 where it says, "When he was in Galilee, they followed him and ministered to him, and there were also many other women who came up with him to Jerusalem."?
- Joseph of Aramethea asked Pilate for Jesus' body.
- Pilate was surprised Jesus died so quickly but gave Joseph the body.
- Joseph wrapped the body in a shroud and buried Him in a tomb.
- Who was Mary mother of Joses? Who was Joses?
Romans 15
- Paul says we have an obligation (duty) to bear with the weak.
- In Jesus we are able to live in harmony with one another.
- Paul quotes 4 OT references that proclaim good news to the Gentiles.
- Joy and Peace lead to hope through the Spirit.
- Paul says to the Romans that he is satisfied with their goodness and faith, but still on some points Paul warns them "very boldly".
- Paul states that everything he does is because of and for the gospel.
- When Paul says he doesn't want to build on others foundations, isn't that being arrogant or proud?
- Paul longs to go to Rome but first he must go back to Jerusalem and give money to the poor there that the Gentiles have given.
- Why would the Gentiles "owe" the poor in Jerusalem anything?
- Paul is planning to visit Rome on his way to Spain.
- Does Paul ever make it to Spain?
- Paul big push is for the believers in Rome to be at peace.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Genesis 44 - Job 10 - Mark 14 - Romans 14
Genesis 44
- Joseph tests his brothers and has his servant hide their money in their sacks again AND put Joseph's cup into Benjamin's sack.
- After they ride off Joseph sends his servant to question them about the "missing" cup.
- They said to Joseph's servant that which ever brother had the cup should die and the rest of them would be Joseph's servants.
- What is Judah referring to when he references God finding out their guilt when they didn't steal the cup?
- Joseph tests them further by saying they are free to go and only Benjamin will stay with Joseph.
- Judah recounts just to Joseph that taking Benjamin away from Jacob will kill him.
- Judah tells Joseph that he had made a pledge of safety with Jacob in order to bring him.
- Judah begs to be allowed to stay instead of Benjamin for his father's sake. (It's amazing how much they care about their father now, when only Reuben cared when they "killed off" Joseph)
- Why weren't the brothers jealous of Jacob's overwhelming favoritism toward Benjamin?
Job 10
- Is it wrong to complain to God?
- Is it possible that Job did not sin, since Romans says "all have sinned"?
- Is Job bitter or deeply saddened?
- Job wants to ask God why He has sent affliction on Job.
- If Job has not sinned, then why could he not speak rightly before God?
- Job is aware that God has given him life and steadfast love and that God's care has preserved his spirit.
- Job knows that God has a purpose for his trials, but still Job wishes he had never been born.
- Job says that it doesn't matter whether he has sinned or not or if he is in the right, because he still cannot lift his head before God.
- Job asks God to cease and let him find cheer. Job knows that God has allowed these trials to happen and wants God to stop them.
- Does Job blame God for his suffering now? Is that not a sinful response?
Mark 14
- The chief priests didn't want to kill Jesus during the Passover Feast.
- A woman came and washed Jesus' head with expensive perfume. The disciples rebuked her for wasting money that could have gone to the poor but Jesus said this was a noble thing she had done.
- Judas went to the chief priests and they offered him money to betray Jesus.
- Jesus ate the Passover Supper with his disciples and told them that one of them would betray him. Jesus says it'd be better if "that man" was never born.
- How did Judas live so long with Christ performing miracles and NOT believe that Jesus was the Christ?
- He broke the bread (His body) and the drank the wine (His blood poured out for them)
- Jesus told Peter he would deny Him three times that night but he, like the rest, denied that would ever happen.
- Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane with Peter, James, and John (who all fell asleep 3 times) and prayed that if it were possible that God would remove this cup from Him. but Jesus ultimately submitted to His father's will.
- Why was removing the cup not possible when Jesus had said "all things are possible" if you have faith?
- Judas comes and kisses Jesus and they arrest Him.
- Why is the verse about the young man becoming naked added?
- Peter follows Jesus to the counsel.
- Weren't the Counsel and the chief priests the ones who had amassed charges against Jesus all along?
- Why didn't they share these things at this hearing?
- In Mark, Jesus answers directly that He IS in fact the Son of God, which they saw as blasphemy and arrested him and beat him.
- Peter does deny Jesus 3 times before the rooster crowed twice (which the first time it crowed is omitted from some texts)
- Peter wept when he knew what he had done.
- Why had Peter followed Christ and done nothing?
Romans 14
- We should not quarrel with fellow believers over "opinions".
- What topics fall under the "opinion" category?
- Let God judge the other person's motives and opinions not you.
- We can honor God in many different ways with our actions. We should do what we are convicted is right before God.
- Wether we live or die we are to do it to the Lord. That is why Christ died for us.
- Paul tells the Romans that we each will give our own account before the Lord.
- We should not judge others, thus putting a stumbling block in their way.
- What we do (eat, drink, etc.) should not cause others to struggle.
- Righteousness, peace, and joy are our goals before God.
- Whatever is not done in faith is sin, so if you think it is wrong to eat or do something and do, yet do it anyway it is sin for you, though it may NOT be sin for another person.
- Joseph tests his brothers and has his servant hide their money in their sacks again AND put Joseph's cup into Benjamin's sack.
- After they ride off Joseph sends his servant to question them about the "missing" cup.
- They said to Joseph's servant that which ever brother had the cup should die and the rest of them would be Joseph's servants.
- What is Judah referring to when he references God finding out their guilt when they didn't steal the cup?
- Joseph tests them further by saying they are free to go and only Benjamin will stay with Joseph.
- Judah recounts just to Joseph that taking Benjamin away from Jacob will kill him.
- Judah tells Joseph that he had made a pledge of safety with Jacob in order to bring him.
- Judah begs to be allowed to stay instead of Benjamin for his father's sake. (It's amazing how much they care about their father now, when only Reuben cared when they "killed off" Joseph)
- Why weren't the brothers jealous of Jacob's overwhelming favoritism toward Benjamin?
Job 10
- Is it wrong to complain to God?
- Is it possible that Job did not sin, since Romans says "all have sinned"?
- Is Job bitter or deeply saddened?
- Job wants to ask God why He has sent affliction on Job.
- If Job has not sinned, then why could he not speak rightly before God?
- Job is aware that God has given him life and steadfast love and that God's care has preserved his spirit.
- Job knows that God has a purpose for his trials, but still Job wishes he had never been born.
- Job says that it doesn't matter whether he has sinned or not or if he is in the right, because he still cannot lift his head before God.
- Job asks God to cease and let him find cheer. Job knows that God has allowed these trials to happen and wants God to stop them.
- Does Job blame God for his suffering now? Is that not a sinful response?
Mark 14
- The chief priests didn't want to kill Jesus during the Passover Feast.
- A woman came and washed Jesus' head with expensive perfume. The disciples rebuked her for wasting money that could have gone to the poor but Jesus said this was a noble thing she had done.
- Judas went to the chief priests and they offered him money to betray Jesus.
- Jesus ate the Passover Supper with his disciples and told them that one of them would betray him. Jesus says it'd be better if "that man" was never born.
- How did Judas live so long with Christ performing miracles and NOT believe that Jesus was the Christ?
- He broke the bread (His body) and the drank the wine (His blood poured out for them)
- Jesus told Peter he would deny Him three times that night but he, like the rest, denied that would ever happen.
- Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane with Peter, James, and John (who all fell asleep 3 times) and prayed that if it were possible that God would remove this cup from Him. but Jesus ultimately submitted to His father's will.
- Why was removing the cup not possible when Jesus had said "all things are possible" if you have faith?
- Judas comes and kisses Jesus and they arrest Him.
- Why is the verse about the young man becoming naked added?
- Peter follows Jesus to the counsel.
- Weren't the Counsel and the chief priests the ones who had amassed charges against Jesus all along?
- Why didn't they share these things at this hearing?
- In Mark, Jesus answers directly that He IS in fact the Son of God, which they saw as blasphemy and arrested him and beat him.
- Peter does deny Jesus 3 times before the rooster crowed twice (which the first time it crowed is omitted from some texts)
- Peter wept when he knew what he had done.
- Why had Peter followed Christ and done nothing?
Romans 14
- We should not quarrel with fellow believers over "opinions".
- What topics fall under the "opinion" category?
- Let God judge the other person's motives and opinions not you.
- We can honor God in many different ways with our actions. We should do what we are convicted is right before God.
- Wether we live or die we are to do it to the Lord. That is why Christ died for us.
- Paul tells the Romans that we each will give our own account before the Lord.
- We should not judge others, thus putting a stumbling block in their way.
- What we do (eat, drink, etc.) should not cause others to struggle.
- Righteousness, peace, and joy are our goals before God.
- Whatever is not done in faith is sin, so if you think it is wrong to eat or do something and do, yet do it anyway it is sin for you, though it may NOT be sin for another person.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Genesis 42/43 - Job 8/9 - Mark 12/13 - Romans 12/13
Genesis 42/43
- Jacob sent his 10 sons (not Benjamin) to Egypt to but grain because of the famine.
- Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him.
- Why does it say he recognized them a second time after they speak?
- Joseph remembered his dream about them from his youth.
- Joseph treats them harshly and accuses them of being spies.
- They leave Simeon as a prisoner and Joseph tells them to bring their younger brother to prove they are NOT spies.
- Joseph originally told them to send 1 brother to get Benjamin, but then he told them that he feared God, so he sent all the brothers back except Simeon.
- They remember what they did to Joseph and talk about how bad it was in front of Joseph assuming that he could not understand them because Joseph's interpreter didn't translate their words, but their words made Joseph cry.
- The brothers find their money back in their grain sacks and wonder why God has done this to them.
- Jacob refuses to send Benjamin and lose a third son.
- Reuben again steps in and says that Jacob can kill Reuben's 2 sons if he lets anything happen to Benjamin.
- Jacob still refuses to send Benjamin and sadden his own heart any more.
- Why don't they refer to Jacob as Israel here?
-Ch. 43
- The famine continued and Jacob's grain ran out, so he wanted to send his sons back to Egypt for more grain.
- The brothers refused to go unless Jacob sent Benjamin with them because Joseph had warned them about coming back without their brother.
- Why did Jacob want his sons to lie to Joseph?
- The brothers had simply answered Joseph's carefully crafted questions.
- Judah steps in and tell Jacob that he will take complete responsibility for Benjamin's safety.
- Judah finally allows them to take Benjamin, but also has them take gifts AND the money which had been returned to them on their last trip.
- Judah asked God to give them mercy on their trip.
- Joseph told the steward of the house to go prepare Joseph's house for a meal with his brothers.
- His brothers were very afraid for they feared that Joseph would imprison them all.
- They told Joseph's steward all that had happened on the previous journey and were surprised to hear that their last bill had been paid in full.. The steward attributed this "miracle" to their God.
- Was this steward a Jew?
- Did Joseph worship the Egyptian gods or the God of Israel?
- Joseph came for lunch and inquired about their father's health.
- Joseph was so overwhelmed with emotions that he left the room and wept, washed up and returned.
- They served Joseph and his brothers in separate places because Egyptians were not allowed to eat with Hebrews.
- Didn't Pharaoh know that Joseph was of Hebrew descent?
- When served Benjamin got 5 times the amount of food as his brothers.
Job 8/9
- Bildad the Shuite answers Job's last response.
- Bildad points out that God is just, pure and merciful.
- Bildad tells Job that He will indeed restore Job if he turns to God.
- Bildad states that God will provide even more to Job later than he had before.
- He states that the godless shall perish like the grass.
- Bildad tells Job that God will provide richly for him again and those who mock him now in his great sorrow will be put to shame by God.
Ch.9
- Job replies in agreement with Bildad and says who can make a case before God?
- Job knows that God is perfect, powerful, and always right (God's attributes)
- Who will say to him, ‘What are you doing?’ (How many times have I asked God the same thing?)
- Job says that even though he thinks he is in the right, Job cannot stand up to God in a conversation.
- How can Job be filled with bitterness and not sin? Isn't bitterness sin?
- Job feels trapped because he is sad, but if he acts happy, then others will think that he has sinned. Job says, "If I say, ‘I will forget my complaint,I will put off my sad face, and be of good cheer,’28 I become afraid of all my suffering,for I know you will not hold me innocent."
- Job says that the only way he, a man, could speak before God is if there was someone to be a go between (This definitely points toward our need for Jesus)
Mark 12/13
- "Them" refers to the chiefs priests and elders carrying over from Mark 11.
- Jesus tells the crowd the parable of the tenants in which a man plants a vineyard and leases to others. The owner then sends tenants which are beaten and killed. So the owner sends his son, whom they also kill. The owner will come and destroy those leasing his vineyards for their wickedness.
- The chief priests wanted to arrest him but left because they knew his parable was against them.
- I thought "they" left, but "they" sent him to others to be tested about paying taxes.
- Jesus knew they were testing Him and He said to pay to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God. (Even "they" had to marvel at His answer)
- The Sadducees ask Jesus about the resurrection (which they don't believe in). Jesus says that the woman would not belong to any of her husbands but would be like the angels because God is not a God of the dead but God of the living.
- They again test Him - and Jesus replies that Love the Lord your God is the most important commandment. Loving your neighbor as yourself is the 2nd.
- The scribe agrees with Jesus statement and adds, " And to love him with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”
- Why did this scribe ask the question if he himself already agreed with Jesus' views?
- Jesus told this scribe that he was not far from the kingdom of God.
- They didn't ask Jesus any more questions.
- Jesus quotes the OT showing that David had called Jesus Lord even then, so He could NOT be the son of David but David's Lord.
- Jesus warns about long prayers and walk around showing off because they are doing so falsely but will receive condemnation
- Jesus draws our attention to a widow who puts in a penny giving out of her poverty and contrasting that with the wealthy who give out of their abundance.
Ch. 13
- Jesus said that the temple would be destroyed.
- Peter, James, John, and Andrew pull Jesus aside in the Mount of Olives to ask when these things will happen.
- Why is Andrew included in this talk with the "big 3"?
- Jesus tells them that they will suffer for His name's sake, but they shouldn't be anxious for the Spirit will give them words to say in that moment.
- v. 14 - 23 are more difficult to understand but here's a try at it.
- Who are the people fleeing that Jesus is speaking of?
- Why would it be worse in winter?
- Is Jesus saying that He must return so that people can be saved?
- Is this saying that in order for the elect (even the ones who have died) to saved, Jesus must return?
- Is it possible to lead astray the elect? (This is the 2nd reference to this in the gospels)
- The sun will go dark and Jesus will return and send His angels to gather the elect.
- Will this include the elect that have already passed away?
- Jesus tells them to look for these signs and await His return.
- What does Jesus mean that this generation will not pass away before they will see these things?
- Only God knows the time of Jesus return (He doesn't even know when).
- Jesus warns them to keep watch for these things and His return.
Romans 12/13
- We are to present ourselves as living sacrifices acceptable to God and not be conformed to the world.
- How are we to test in order to fin out God's will as stated by Paul when he says, "that by testing you may discern what is the will of God"?
- Paul says that every member has a different job. Not everyone has the same giftings, but the giftings given to him by God.
- Paul lists the following gifts to be used by the church: prophecy, service, teaching, exhortation, generosity, leadership, and mercy.
- Paul tells the Romans to outdo one another in showing love and honor.
- Serve the Lord with zeal, be patient, and constant in prayer
- What does being constant in prayer look like?
- Bless those who persecute you.
- Try to do what is honorable in the sights of everyone
- How do you honor those with different convictions from yourself?
- Don't avenge yourself but leave that to God.
- Don't be haughty but associate with the lowly.
- Paul tells the Romans (and us) to "not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
Ch. 13
- We should subject to our governing authorities (which Jesus said in Mark today about Caesar's coin)
- God has appointed all authorities to be obeyed.
- What about governments which forbid Christianity?
- Owe no one anything except love.
- Jacob sent his 10 sons (not Benjamin) to Egypt to but grain because of the famine.
- Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him.
- Why does it say he recognized them a second time after they speak?
- Joseph remembered his dream about them from his youth.
- Joseph treats them harshly and accuses them of being spies.
- They leave Simeon as a prisoner and Joseph tells them to bring their younger brother to prove they are NOT spies.
- Joseph originally told them to send 1 brother to get Benjamin, but then he told them that he feared God, so he sent all the brothers back except Simeon.
- They remember what they did to Joseph and talk about how bad it was in front of Joseph assuming that he could not understand them because Joseph's interpreter didn't translate their words, but their words made Joseph cry.
- The brothers find their money back in their grain sacks and wonder why God has done this to them.
- Jacob refuses to send Benjamin and lose a third son.
- Reuben again steps in and says that Jacob can kill Reuben's 2 sons if he lets anything happen to Benjamin.
- Jacob still refuses to send Benjamin and sadden his own heart any more.
- Why don't they refer to Jacob as Israel here?
-Ch. 43
- The famine continued and Jacob's grain ran out, so he wanted to send his sons back to Egypt for more grain.
- The brothers refused to go unless Jacob sent Benjamin with them because Joseph had warned them about coming back without their brother.
- Why did Jacob want his sons to lie to Joseph?
- The brothers had simply answered Joseph's carefully crafted questions.
- Judah steps in and tell Jacob that he will take complete responsibility for Benjamin's safety.
- Judah finally allows them to take Benjamin, but also has them take gifts AND the money which had been returned to them on their last trip.
- Judah asked God to give them mercy on their trip.
- Joseph told the steward of the house to go prepare Joseph's house for a meal with his brothers.
- His brothers were very afraid for they feared that Joseph would imprison them all.
- They told Joseph's steward all that had happened on the previous journey and were surprised to hear that their last bill had been paid in full.. The steward attributed this "miracle" to their God.
- Was this steward a Jew?
- Did Joseph worship the Egyptian gods or the God of Israel?
- Joseph came for lunch and inquired about their father's health.
- Joseph was so overwhelmed with emotions that he left the room and wept, washed up and returned.
- They served Joseph and his brothers in separate places because Egyptians were not allowed to eat with Hebrews.
- Didn't Pharaoh know that Joseph was of Hebrew descent?
- When served Benjamin got 5 times the amount of food as his brothers.
Job 8/9
- Bildad the Shuite answers Job's last response.
- Bildad points out that God is just, pure and merciful.
- Bildad tells Job that He will indeed restore Job if he turns to God.
- Bildad states that God will provide even more to Job later than he had before.
- He states that the godless shall perish like the grass.
- Bildad tells Job that God will provide richly for him again and those who mock him now in his great sorrow will be put to shame by God.
Ch.9
- Job replies in agreement with Bildad and says who can make a case before God?
- Job knows that God is perfect, powerful, and always right (God's attributes)
- Who will say to him, ‘What are you doing?’ (How many times have I asked God the same thing?)
- Job says that even though he thinks he is in the right, Job cannot stand up to God in a conversation.
- How can Job be filled with bitterness and not sin? Isn't bitterness sin?
- Job feels trapped because he is sad, but if he acts happy, then others will think that he has sinned. Job says, "If I say, ‘I will forget my complaint,I will put off my sad face, and be of good cheer,’28 I become afraid of all my suffering,for I know you will not hold me innocent."
- Job says that the only way he, a man, could speak before God is if there was someone to be a go between (This definitely points toward our need for Jesus)
Mark 12/13
- "Them" refers to the chiefs priests and elders carrying over from Mark 11.
- Jesus tells the crowd the parable of the tenants in which a man plants a vineyard and leases to others. The owner then sends tenants which are beaten and killed. So the owner sends his son, whom they also kill. The owner will come and destroy those leasing his vineyards for their wickedness.
- The chief priests wanted to arrest him but left because they knew his parable was against them.
- I thought "they" left, but "they" sent him to others to be tested about paying taxes.
- Jesus knew they were testing Him and He said to pay to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God. (Even "they" had to marvel at His answer)
- The Sadducees ask Jesus about the resurrection (which they don't believe in). Jesus says that the woman would not belong to any of her husbands but would be like the angels because God is not a God of the dead but God of the living.
- They again test Him - and Jesus replies that Love the Lord your God is the most important commandment. Loving your neighbor as yourself is the 2nd.
- The scribe agrees with Jesus statement and adds, " And to love him with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”
- Why did this scribe ask the question if he himself already agreed with Jesus' views?
- Jesus told this scribe that he was not far from the kingdom of God.
- They didn't ask Jesus any more questions.
- Jesus quotes the OT showing that David had called Jesus Lord even then, so He could NOT be the son of David but David's Lord.
- Jesus warns about long prayers and walk around showing off because they are doing so falsely but will receive condemnation
- Jesus draws our attention to a widow who puts in a penny giving out of her poverty and contrasting that with the wealthy who give out of their abundance.
Ch. 13
- Jesus said that the temple would be destroyed.
- Peter, James, John, and Andrew pull Jesus aside in the Mount of Olives to ask when these things will happen.
- Why is Andrew included in this talk with the "big 3"?
- Jesus tells them that they will suffer for His name's sake, but they shouldn't be anxious for the Spirit will give them words to say in that moment.
- v. 14 - 23 are more difficult to understand but here's a try at it.
- Who are the people fleeing that Jesus is speaking of?
- Why would it be worse in winter?
- Is Jesus saying that He must return so that people can be saved?
- Is this saying that in order for the elect (even the ones who have died) to saved, Jesus must return?
- Is it possible to lead astray the elect? (This is the 2nd reference to this in the gospels)
- The sun will go dark and Jesus will return and send His angels to gather the elect.
- Will this include the elect that have already passed away?
- Jesus tells them to look for these signs and await His return.
- What does Jesus mean that this generation will not pass away before they will see these things?
- Only God knows the time of Jesus return (He doesn't even know when).
- Jesus warns them to keep watch for these things and His return.
Romans 12/13
- We are to present ourselves as living sacrifices acceptable to God and not be conformed to the world.
- How are we to test in order to fin out God's will as stated by Paul when he says, "that by testing you may discern what is the will of God"?
- Paul says that every member has a different job. Not everyone has the same giftings, but the giftings given to him by God.
- Paul lists the following gifts to be used by the church: prophecy, service, teaching, exhortation, generosity, leadership, and mercy.
- Paul tells the Romans to outdo one another in showing love and honor.
- Serve the Lord with zeal, be patient, and constant in prayer
- What does being constant in prayer look like?
- Bless those who persecute you.
- Try to do what is honorable in the sights of everyone
- How do you honor those with different convictions from yourself?
- Don't avenge yourself but leave that to God.
- Don't be haughty but associate with the lowly.
- Paul tells the Romans (and us) to "not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
Ch. 13
- We should subject to our governing authorities (which Jesus said in Mark today about Caesar's coin)
- God has appointed all authorities to be obeyed.
- What about governments which forbid Christianity?
- Owe no one anything except love.
- Paul reemphasizes what Jesus also said today in Mark that "loving your neighbor as yourself" over arches many other commandments. (You can't love your neighbor AND kill them or commit adultery with their wife)
- We must not make any provision for the flesh, but we must put on the Word of God, so that we may be in the light.
- We need to be preparing for Christ's return because it is closer today than it was when we first believed.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Genesis 41 - Job 7 - Mark 11 - Romans 11
Genesis 41
- Joseph was in jail 2 years
- Pharaoh had 2 bad dreams; one with 7 fat cows being eaten by 7 thin cows and 7 plump ears of grain were eaten by 7 diseased grains.
- The cup bearer remember that Joseph could interpret dreams.
- Joseph corrected Pharaoh and gave credit to God, not himself, about the dream interpretation.
- Giving Pharaoh 2 duplicate dreams means that it WILL happen and soon.
- Joseph told Pharaoh that there would be 7 years of plenty followed by 7 years of severe famine.
- Pharaoh made Joseph the 2nd highest man in all of Egypt because his God had shown Pharaoh what will take place.
- Joseph tells Pharaoh to store up 1/5 of the extra grain over the next 7 years for the future famine.
- Joseph's new Egyptian name was Zaphenath-paneah and he married Pharaoh's daughter, Asenath
- Asenath bore Joseph 2 sons; Manasseh and Ephraim.
- Why did Joseph give his children Hebrew names when even his name was Egyptian?
- Was it okay for Joseph to marry an Egyptian since it was before Moses' laws?
- Joseph still remembered and gave credit to God for all his abundance even in the names he gave his children.
- Joseph opened the storehouses when the famine got severe and people from all over the earth came to Egypt for supplies.
- Was the famine really over the whole earth or just that region?
Job 8
- Who is Job directing his bitterness of soul toward; God, his friends, or both?
- Job is saying that life is hard and it's short. he will be gone soon like a fog.
- Job's skin disease keeps him from sleeping and he's covered in worms.
- Why does Job think he will never again see good?
- If Job feels bitterness but doesn't express it verbally, is it not considered sin? (This contradicts what Jesus says in Matthew about killing and adultery)
-Is Job having nightmares too?
- Job is in self pity, wanting to die, and not wanting to be tested, by friends or by God I'm not sure.
- Who has marked Job and who is he a burden too?
- Job, the man who said earlier "You give and take away blessed be your name, now says,"Why do you not pardon my transgression and take away my iniquity?"
- Does Job no longer have faith in God to restore him?
Mark 11
- Jesus tells disciples to go get a colt for Him to ride into Jerusalem on.
- Jesus enters the city and people shout Hosanna and spread coats and branches on the street as He passed.
- What dies Hosanna mean?
- Why did Jesus enter Jerusalem and then return to Bethany?
- Why did Jesus curse the fig tree for not having figs out of season?
- Jesus overturns tables and chases money changers and pigeon sellers out of the temple for "turning the temple into a den of robbers"
- Upon seeing the fig tree withered up the next day Jesus tells the disciples that if they have faith in God shall see what they say come to pass.
- The chief priests and scribes were upset and looked for a way to trick Jesus.
- They ask Jesus by what authority He does and says the things He does.
- Jesus asks them whether the baptism of John was from man or God. They knew He had tricked them so they replied they did not know.
Romans 11
- Paul says that God has not rejected His people totally because Paul is a Jew.
- The prophet Elijah had appealed to God against Israel for their wickedness. God saved those who had not bowed to Baal.
- The present remnant is there by grace NOT by their works. (It's all done by God)
- v.11 - 24 compare the relationship between Israel, God, and the Gentiles to the grafting in of olive branches.
-Some Jews were like branches taken out of the olive tree and the Gentile believers are like a wild branch grafted back into the tree. (This is a work of grace).
- Paul is preaching and saving the Gentiles hoping to make the Jews jealous so that they tool may believe and be saved.
- Is it biblical to make someone jealous?
- Paul warns the Gentiles that they too could fall away from God like previous Jewish generations had done so to be careful. (This'll keep the Gentiles humble and guarded). They should fear and not be proud as the Jews had done in the past.
- Paul is telling the Gentiles that Israel has been partially hardened, while the Gentiles are being saved, so that later the Jews may too be saved.
- God has been merciful to those He has called and Paul remind the Gentiles of this.
- v. 36 is an awesome powerful verse. It says, "For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen."
- We can't give or do anything for God that isn't already His!
- Joseph was in jail 2 years
- Pharaoh had 2 bad dreams; one with 7 fat cows being eaten by 7 thin cows and 7 plump ears of grain were eaten by 7 diseased grains.
- The cup bearer remember that Joseph could interpret dreams.
- Joseph corrected Pharaoh and gave credit to God, not himself, about the dream interpretation.
- Giving Pharaoh 2 duplicate dreams means that it WILL happen and soon.
- Joseph told Pharaoh that there would be 7 years of plenty followed by 7 years of severe famine.
- Pharaoh made Joseph the 2nd highest man in all of Egypt because his God had shown Pharaoh what will take place.
- Joseph tells Pharaoh to store up 1/5 of the extra grain over the next 7 years for the future famine.
- Joseph's new Egyptian name was Zaphenath-paneah and he married Pharaoh's daughter, Asenath
- Asenath bore Joseph 2 sons; Manasseh and Ephraim.
- Why did Joseph give his children Hebrew names when even his name was Egyptian?
- Was it okay for Joseph to marry an Egyptian since it was before Moses' laws?
- Joseph still remembered and gave credit to God for all his abundance even in the names he gave his children.
- Joseph opened the storehouses when the famine got severe and people from all over the earth came to Egypt for supplies.
- Was the famine really over the whole earth or just that region?
Job 8
- Who is Job directing his bitterness of soul toward; God, his friends, or both?
- Job is saying that life is hard and it's short. he will be gone soon like a fog.
- Job's skin disease keeps him from sleeping and he's covered in worms.
- Why does Job think he will never again see good?
- If Job feels bitterness but doesn't express it verbally, is it not considered sin? (This contradicts what Jesus says in Matthew about killing and adultery)
-Is Job having nightmares too?
- Job is in self pity, wanting to die, and not wanting to be tested, by friends or by God I'm not sure.
- Who has marked Job and who is he a burden too?
- Job, the man who said earlier "You give and take away blessed be your name, now says,"Why do you not pardon my transgression and take away my iniquity?"
- Does Job no longer have faith in God to restore him?
Mark 11
- Jesus tells disciples to go get a colt for Him to ride into Jerusalem on.
- Jesus enters the city and people shout Hosanna and spread coats and branches on the street as He passed.
- What dies Hosanna mean?
- Why did Jesus enter Jerusalem and then return to Bethany?
- Why did Jesus curse the fig tree for not having figs out of season?
- Jesus overturns tables and chases money changers and pigeon sellers out of the temple for "turning the temple into a den of robbers"
- Upon seeing the fig tree withered up the next day Jesus tells the disciples that if they have faith in God shall see what they say come to pass.
- The chief priests and scribes were upset and looked for a way to trick Jesus.
- They ask Jesus by what authority He does and says the things He does.
- Jesus asks them whether the baptism of John was from man or God. They knew He had tricked them so they replied they did not know.
Romans 11
- Paul says that God has not rejected His people totally because Paul is a Jew.
- The prophet Elijah had appealed to God against Israel for their wickedness. God saved those who had not bowed to Baal.
- The present remnant is there by grace NOT by their works. (It's all done by God)
- v.11 - 24 compare the relationship between Israel, God, and the Gentiles to the grafting in of olive branches.
-Some Jews were like branches taken out of the olive tree and the Gentile believers are like a wild branch grafted back into the tree. (This is a work of grace).
- Paul is preaching and saving the Gentiles hoping to make the Jews jealous so that they tool may believe and be saved.
- Is it biblical to make someone jealous?
- Paul warns the Gentiles that they too could fall away from God like previous Jewish generations had done so to be careful. (This'll keep the Gentiles humble and guarded). They should fear and not be proud as the Jews had done in the past.
- Paul is telling the Gentiles that Israel has been partially hardened, while the Gentiles are being saved, so that later the Jews may too be saved.
- God has been merciful to those He has called and Paul remind the Gentiles of this.
- v. 36 is an awesome powerful verse. It says, "For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen."
- We can't give or do anything for God that isn't already His!
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