Table of Contents
The blessed person delights in God’s word, studying scripture diligently. Like a tree planted by streams of water, they are nourished by internalizing God’s word, gaining stability and security in their faith.
Blessings manifest when we pair understanding of God’s will with obedient action. We must devote ourselves to comprehending prophecy in order to recognize God’s will and act accordingly when the time is right. Simply crying “Lord, Lord” is insufficient; inheritors of God’s kingdom must know His will and live it out.
There are appropriate times for understanding and actions. Presently, we should prioritize studying scripture to gain wisdom, clarity, and intimacy with God. This understanding enables us to pursue His righteousness rather than worrying over temporary things.
Success comes from committing our plans to the Lord rather than worrying over material things. By seeking first God’s righteousness, we gain wisdom to act according to His purposes. When challenges arise, persevere in pursuing spiritual growth rather than forfeiting easily.
The emphasis is on persistently striving to comprehend God’s word through scripture, prophecy and Christ’s teachings, then applying what we learn with faith and endurance. This brings true blessings and establishes us firmly in God’s will.
Shincheonji holds distinct theological views that differ from mainstream Christian denominations, yet it also shares some common teachings. This overlap can sometimes blur the lines between their beliefs and those of traditional Christianity. Therefore, it is essential to exercise critical thinking and discernment to differentiate between these shared elements and the unique doctrines they present.
While their interpretations warrant careful examination through a critical and biblical lens, it is equally important to approach these matters with an open yet discerning mindset.
The following notes were documented in person during Shincheonji’s 9-month Bible Study Seminar. They provide insight into the organization’s approach to introducing and explaining its beliefs to potential new members, often referred to as the ‘harvesting and sealing.’ This process is described as being ‘born again’ or ‘born of God’s seed,’ which involves uprooting the old beliefs and replanting new ones. This uprooting and replanting must occur continuously. By examining this process, we can gain a better understanding of the mindset and beliefs held by Shincheonji members.
Understanding God’s word helps us understand God more fully.
In this class, the instructor Nate shared how John 6:68 profoundly impacted him. In this verse, when Jesus asked if his disciples would also leave him, Simon Peter responded “To whom shall we go?”
Meaning, the disciples realized there was nowhere else to turn but to Jesus, the one true Son of God. Nothing and no one compared to what they were now hearing from him.
As Nate studied God’s word more deeply, this verse spoke to him in a new way. He came to the realization that there is nowhere else for him to go but to God through Jesus. Nowhere else that gives the kind of life and light that God’s word does. So he made a commitment – wherever God leads him, he will follow. He is not going anywhere else but walking in God’s truth.
John 6:68
Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.
After Jesus taught something difficult, didn’t he ask his disciples a challenging question, testing their commitment to stay?
In John 6, Jesus speaks about eating his flesh and drinking his blood. Many people at that time responded with confusion, asking “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?”
They thought he was crazy. Because their hearts were not open to understanding what Jesus was saying, they left instead of listening further.
John 6:51-56
I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”
52 Then the Jews began to argue sharply among themselves, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?”
53 Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. 54 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. 56 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them.
Let’s not respond that way. Instead, let’s approach Jesus’ challenging words with an attitude of openness and curiosity, a willingness to find out more, to ask questions, and to persist in seeking understanding.
That passage is another instructor Paul’s favorite Bible verses because of the attitude it calls for in response to Jesus’ difficult sayings. Another of his favorite verse that beautifully encapsulates the Bible’s message is John 14:29.
John 14:29
I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.
This verse emphasizes the importance of prophecy and fulfillment for faith. Without prophecy and its fulfillment, faith is difficult to attain and comprehend.
Jesus has just finished telling his disciples about his second coming and what they should expect upon his return. Jesus says, “I have to tell you these things now so that when these events take place, they will serve as evidence for those alive at the time when these words are fulfilled, so that they can believe.
Some of us may wonder – is that time close? And how can we know? We must understand what Jesus says so that we can believe in the proper way as we await the prophesied events. As we see, this is why these verses are so meaningful.
God declares and then fulfills, because He wants us to believe in Him.
Yet God knows how difficult it is for us. We cannot see, hear or sometimes even feel His presence unless we are in dire need. As physical beings, believing in the unseen is challenging.
God and our adversary alike understand this difficulty in belief. Satan capitalizes on our hardship in knowing and comprehending the spiritual world. But through grasping the word of God, we can overcome the enemy’s exploits.
1. Introduction: Blessing and be blessed
What does it mean to be blessed by God? Delight in the Word
The hope of our Christian life of faith is to go to heaven and live eternally. This blessing of eternal life with God is what we have heard about since first learning about Jesus. But how can we understand more about this blessing now, while we are still alive?
Must we wait until death to receive this blessing or understand what it will be like? Let’s seek to understand it today, so we can live according to the Bible’s teachings on eternal life with God.
1 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wickedor stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers,
2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.
3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.
A great introduction to a wonderful book, isn’t it? So, let’s understand this a little bit more deeply. Who is the person that is blessed according to verse 1. What are the characteristics of that person?
They don’t walk with the ungodly, what else? And They meditate on the word daily.
And because they delight in the law of God. They become like a what? When did he compare them like a tree., last time we talked about a parable we introduced a parable. what was the parable we learned about on Tuesday? Weeds, the seed
What does the seed mean? The word.
James 1:18
He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.
Luke 8:11
This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God.
This passage compares a person to a tree planted by streams of water. Just as a tree receives nourishment from the water, a person receives nourishment from God’s word when it is planted in their heart. The word of God helps people grow and mature spiritually.
Psalm 1 states that those who delight in the law of the Lord will be like a tree planted by streams of water.
Its roots have constant access to water, so it always flourishes. In contrast, those distant from God’s word are perpetually hungry and thirsty in an unhealthy way, often manifesting as anger, depression, anxiety, stress, fear, and feeling overwhelmed. We tend to heavily medicate people exhibiting these symptoms when what they truly need is regular nourishment from the word of God.
In Matthew 5:6, Jesus pronounced a blessing on those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. This positive kind of hunger propels people to continually seek more of God’s word and never be fully satisfied.
We should cultivate an insatiable yet grateful appetite for the word of God, responding “Oh thank You Lord, that was good” every time we receive spiritual nourishment.
Matthew 5:6
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Psalms 119:165
Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.
A person who loves God’s word will be like a tree that does not worry about finding water – it is secure. No matter what happens in life, good or bad, they stand unshaken, rooted in their faith.
This is why Jesus contrasted a house built on solid rock to one built on sand. From the outside during calm times, they appear identical. But when storms come, when waves crash and winds blow, the house with a firm foundation in God’s word will stand strong while the house on shaky ground will falter.
The message is that those grounded in scripture have security and stability in their faith that helps them weather whatever storms arise, while those lacking that foundation will struggle.
As followers of Christ, we should strive to build our lives on the solid rock of God’s word and truth.
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”
Who here wants to have an unshakable foundation like a house built on solid rock? Who wants to be like a tree that stands firm when the winds blow and always has nourishment? Well, it doesn’t just happen automatically.
You have to put in the effort. What effort is required? Studying and applying God’s word in your life.
2. Ezra’s Blessing
Regularly reading and pondering scripture should be as routine as eating your daily bread. It’s not enough to just read the Bible, you need to really digest it and integrate it into your life.
Let’s look at the story of someone who made scripture a vital part of their life and received abundant blessings.
Let us examine Ezra 7:6-10 to understand Ezra’s mindset and qualities so that we can emulate his positive example.
6 this Ezra came up from Babylon. He was a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses, which the Lord, the God of Israel, had given. The king had granted him everything he asked, for the hand of the Lord his God was on him. 7 Some of the Israelites, including priests, Levites, musicians, gatekeepers and temple servants, also came up to Jerusalem in the seventh year of King Artaxerxes.
8 Ezra arrived in Jerusalem in the fifth month of the seventh year of the king. 9 He had begun his journey from Babylon on the first day of the first month, and he arrived in Jerusalem on the first day of the fifth month, for the gracious hand of his God was on him. 10 For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.
So Ezra was a man who came up in Babylon. Let me explain some context here, so you can really understand this story. There was a great downfall of Israel during the time of Solomon because of idolatry being brought into the land.
God allowed the Israelites to be destroyed at that time by two warring nations – Syria and Babylon. Israel was enslaved in Babylon for 70 years. Ezra’s story is towards the end of that 70-year enslavement and destruction of the Israelites, several hundred years before Jesus was born for context.
But this was a time when the Israelites were finally able to return to their homeland of Israel. Ezra was selected to help lead them back. Why? Because the gracious hand of God was on him.
Why was God’s favor on him?
Ezra devoted himself to the study and observance of God’s law. Ezra was devoted to studying Scripture. So God was with him, as he was able to lead the people in the way they should go. If I want to be someone used by God, I too need to devote myself to studying His Word.
For us, that means immersing ourselves in the Bible. I must do it because then I will understand what God is doing and how I can participate in His plan. We continue to read that Ezra was not just allowed to return to Israel, that was not the end. The king also blessed him with many resources which he could use to help rebuild the temple. Wow – so many blessings God bestowed on the instrument He decided to use at that time! Let’s be like Ezra.
Let us explore more deeply the blessings of God. We read scriptures written thousands of years ago. How do these apply in our time today? What do these lessons mean for me personally? We should keep this question in mind with every passage we study – how does this scripture apply to my life? My goal is to receive God’s blessings and live them out, just as Ezra did in his time.
3. God’s Blessings
God’s blessings manifest in many forms and vary in scope. Some are greater than others. What does that mean? Let’s explore further.
First, what does it fundamentally mean to be blessed by God? Let us ponder what blessings from God entail.
Keeping this question in mind will guide us moving forward: What does it mean to be blessed by God? Additionally, how can we recognize when blessings will come about? By understanding more about the nature of blessings, we can be more receptive and grateful when they occur in our lives.
You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me,
Jesus is speaking in verse 35. He is addressing the Israelites, saying “You diligently study the scriptures because you think that by them you will have eternal life. These scriptures testify about me.”
Jesus is trying to convey that he embodies the blessings contained in the scriptures that the Israelites are studying. They are focused on the literal words and promises recorded in the Old Testament from Genesis to Malachi regarding God’s blessings and eternal life. However, they fail to realize that Jesus himself represents the fulfillment and personification of those blessings.
As Jesus states, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” This is not just a random statement. If people do not understand those original promises that God declared, then they cannot fully receive the blessings and salvation that Christ offers. This is why Jesus had to educate people and inform them that the writings of Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel and others were actually prophecies testifying about him.
Similarly, those who came to Jesus excitedly still needed to grasp what it truly means to be blessed in Christ. Jesus wanted people to look beyond just the literal words on the page and realize that he is the fulfillment of God’s promised salvation and blessings.
God’s blessings: His promises
27 As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.”
28 He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
Jesus often reframes people’s statements to him, redirecting the conversation. In this passage, Jesus responds to a statement about his mother by shifting the focus. He says, “Blessed is the one who hears the word of God and obeys it. That person will be more blessed than one who simply hears and does nothing.”
Blessed: Those who hear the Word and obey it.
The key point is that we must not only listen to God’s word, but put it into action. As Jesus explains, God cannot use those who do not act on what they know. Jonah is an example – when he refused to preach repentance to Nineveh, God disciplined him until he obeyed. God’s desire was to show mercy to Nineveh if they repented, but He needed Jonah to speak first.
In summary, the one who obeys God’s word will be blessed. However, we cannot obey what we fail to understand. We must study scripture diligently so that we comprehend God’s instructions and can follow them. The emphasis is on pairing deep understanding of God’s commands with obedient action.
Does God automatically bless those who believe in him?
21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
Jesus states, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven.” He is referring to people who profess belief in him, not non-believers.
Pagans and non-believers do not acknowledge Jesus as Lord, so this passage concerns those who claim to follow him. Simply professing “Lord, Lord” is not enough.
Verses 21-23 make clear Jesus is speaking about self-professed believers, not Gentiles or non-believers.
The real standard for entry into the kingdom of heaven is doing the will of God. Merely saying “Lord, Lord” is insufficient. True believers must know and live out God’s will, not just offer empty platitudes.
Know and do God’s will = Heaven
Actions speak louder than words. When Jesus refers to those who say “Lord, Lord,” he means those who profess belief without obeying God’s commands. Genuine faith requires practicing what you preach and following through on your words with righteous deeds.
22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
Many will say to me on that day, “Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, drive out demons in your name, and perform many miracles in your name?” Then I will tell them plainly, “I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!”
“Lord, Lord, did we not do this? Did we not do that? We did this. We did that.” And then Jesus will say, “But you did not do my Father’s will.” That is truly frightening. It scared me deeply when I first read this passage with understanding.
We must ensure our actions align with God’s will. But first, we need to understand God’s will. Ask yourself – do I comprehend what God intends? If the answer is unclear, pray for clarity on God’s will. It is revealed/recorded in prophecy: “I will do this, I will do that. When this sign appears, this event will follow.” God tells us how to prepare for coming events. Without understanding, how can we follow His guidance?
Let’s strive for deeper knowledge of prophecy. Balance study with action in due time. If I asked how you were today in a language you didn’t grasp, you could not respond appropriately. We must seek understanding so that we can act as God has foretold.
We need to study the Word. God’s will is recorded in prophecy. We must strive to understand God’s prophecies, even when they are not entirely clear to us initially. Further study enables us to act according to God’s promises.
This passage concerns believers. Unbelievers and pagans do not call Jesus “Lord.” Verses 21-23 address those who profess faith yet do not adhere to God’s will.
The standard for inheritors of the Kingdom – we must know God’s will and follow it. Crying “Lord, Lord” is not enough. Let us comprehend what Jesus means here. “Lord, Lord” can also imply actions, not mere words.
How it is fair when prophecy is difficult to understand?
There are different times and contexts when errors can occur. God expects people to act in certain ways during certain periods. For many years, there was a prophecy that Jesus would come, though people did not know who or when. But they did know that someone was coming. So would it be fair for God to hold someone accountable for believing in Jesus before he was born? No, that would not be just. As Acts 17 explains, it is expected for people to know and believe once the prophesied event has taken place.
We must keep timing in mind – there is a time factor to these matters. As we discussed, there are things we are supposed to do daily, and things we are meant to do at the proper time. Understanding what we should do and when will aid us.
4. Our Determination to Study the Word.
First though, we must study God’s word – that should be our priority now. Though there is much going on in our lives – our jobs and responsibilities keep us very busy – I am blessed to be able to dedicate my evenings to teaching the Word. I don’t let other things interfere with this responsibility.
What I ask of you is the same commitment – as you prepare for this course, be determined to truly dive in and learn. The more you devote yourself to studying Scripture, the more blessings you will gain. This advice echoes what King David taught his son King Solomon.
“And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches every heart and understands every desire and every thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever.
In this passage, we see King David on his deathbed giving advice to his son, Prince Solomon, who was still a young man at the time. David advises Solomon to serve the Lord wholeheartedly with a willing mind ready to obey God’s commands. This means Solomon should devote his full, undivided attention to seeking God, not just giving God partial attention once or twice a week.
When we come before God’s word, the world fades away as nothing else matters at that moment except focusing intently on understanding and connecting with the message.
David explains that seeking God intensely is like desperately searching for lost keys when you are in a hurry to leave for an appointment. You frantically manage everything and flip things over because you have somewhere important to be. That is the kind of earnest seeking God desires from His followers, not just half-hearted interest.
The passage suggests that spiritual growth takes committed effort, just as a planted seed requires diligent care – watering, sunlight, pest removal, and weed control – before it can sprout and flourish. Likewise, children need much time and attentive nurturing from parents to mature properly. Our relationship with God also thrives when we dedicate consistent, quality time to reading His word, communicating with Him, and applying biblical principles in our lives. The more priority we give to the Lord, the more blessed and successful we will be in everything we do.
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.
Commit yourself to the Lord in all that you do, and your plans will succeed. For your plans to come to fruition requires dedicating them to God’s purposes. This is a conditional statement – success is not guaranteed merely by personal desire or feeling aligned with God’s will.
As you commit your way to the Lord, you will gain greater clarity about what aligns with His intentions versus what does not. That which aligns with His purposes will prosper. You will increasingly recognize God’s true standards and blessings.
31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Understanding God’s word enables wisdom and agency to act according to His will – a greater treasure than material things. Certainly, cars, homes, food and clothing have value for sustenance and protection. But Jesus said to first pursue His righteousness rather than worrying over temporal things, which the unbelieving chase.
When challenges arise, persevere rather than forfeiting easily. Seek solutions to continue pursuing godly wisdom, not merely for approval from people, but for your own spiritual growth and intimate connection with God. Do not allow worldly obstacles to readily deter you from what matters most. You have the capacity to press on.
Memorization:
You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me,
John 5:39
When you reflect on that verse, you realize: ‘I need to study the Word of God in a way that helps me find Jesus in its pages – not just to memorize verses, but to understand their meaning and what they reveal about him.’
Let’s Us Discern
Discernment is still a work in progress …. Proverbs 14:15 (ESV)
“The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.”
Analysis
Questions to Self-Reflect
Outline
Understanding God’s Word: A Deeper Look at Blessings and Prophecy
I. Introduction: The Path to Blessing
- This section introduces the concept of being blessed by God and emphasizes the importance of delighting in and meditating on His word.
- It draws parallels between those who are blessed and a tree planted by streams of water, symbolizing constant nourishment and flourishing.
II. Ezra’s Blessing: A Model of Devotion
- This section examines the story of Ezra, a man devoted to studying and obeying God’s law, who received abundant blessings.
- It encourages readers to emulate Ezra’s example by immersing themselves in scripture to understand and participate in God’s plan.
III. God’s Blessings: Beyond the Literal
- This section explores the multifaceted nature of God’s blessings, highlighting the importance of understanding their deeper meaning.
- It emphasizes that Jesus himself represents the fulfillment of the blessings promised in scripture, urging readers to see beyond the literal words.
IV. Hearing and Obeying: The True Test of Faith
- This section focuses on the importance of not just hearing God’s word, but putting it into action.
- It stresses that true blessings come from understanding and obeying God’s will, as demonstrated through the story of Jonah.
V. Actions Over Words: Entering the Kingdom
- This section challenges the notion that simply professing belief in Jesus is sufficient for salvation.
- It emphasizes the importance of aligning actions with God’s will, warning against empty words and emphasizing the need for genuine obedience.
VI. Understanding God’s Will: Prophecy as Guidance
- This section highlights the importance of understanding God’s will, which is revealed through prophecy.
- It encourages readers to study prophecy diligently to prepare for coming events and act according to God’s guidance.
VII. The Importance of Timing: Accountability and Justice
- This section addresses the issue of accountability for believing in prophecy, highlighting the importance of timing.
- It explains that God holds people accountable for knowing and believing once a prophesied event has occurred, emphasizing the need to act at the proper time.
VIII. Our Determination to Study: Cultivating Spiritual Growth
- This section emphasizes the need for committed effort in studying God’s word, drawing parallels to a seed needing diligent care to flourish.
- It encourages readers to prioritize seeking God wholeheartedly, as exemplified by King David’s advice to his son Solomon.
IX. Committing to God: The Key to Success
- This section highlights the importance of committing to the Lord in all endeavors to achieve success aligned with His purposes.
- It emphasizes the need to discern God’s true standards and blessings through consistent dedication and action.
X. Seeking First His Kingdom: True Priorities
- This section encourages prioritizing God’s righteousness over material concerns, drawing from Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 6:31-33.
- It emphasizes the value of seeking godly wisdom for spiritual growth and perseverance in the face of worldly obstacles.
XI. Finding Jesus in the Word: A Deeper Understanding
- This section concludes by emphasizing the importance of studying the Word to find a deeper understanding of Jesus and His teachings.
- It encourages readers to move beyond memorization and strive for a deeper connection with God through His word.
XII. Summary: Key Lessons and Applications
- This section provides a concise summary of the key lessons from the class, highlighting the importance of:
- Wholehearted commitment to Jesus.
- Persistent understanding of His words.
- Finding stability and nourishment in scripture.
- Cultivating an insatiable hunger for righteousness.
- Diligently studying and obeying God’s word.
XIII. Another Review: The Necessity of Knowing the Bible
- This section reiterates the importance of knowing the Bible, citing Hosea 4:6 and John 17:3.
- It lists the consequences of ignorance and emphasizes the role of scripture in salvation, referencing 1 Timothy 2, John 6:68, and John 14:29.
A Study Guide
Understanding God’s Word: A Study Guide
I. Short Answer Questions
- According to John 6:68, what did Simon Peter realize about Jesus? Explain the significance of his statement.
- Why did many people reject Jesus’ teachings in John 6? How should we approach challenging passages in scripture?
- How does John 14:29 emphasize the importance of prophecy and its fulfillment for faith?
- According to Psalm 1, what characterizes a person who is blessed by God? What metaphor is used to describe them?
- Explain the significance of the seed metaphor in Luke 8:11 and James 1:18.
- How does Matthew 5:6 describe the attitude we should have towards God’s word?
- What contrast does the study guide draw between a house built on sand and a house built on rock in relation to faith?
- What qualities of Ezra made him worthy of God’s blessings?
- According to Luke 11:27-28, what did Jesus say is the most important thing for a person to do to be blessed?
- What is the main point of Matthew 7:21-23? What does it say about the relationship between faith and actions?
II. Additional Questions
1. What does it mean to be blessed by God? is to be able to go to heaven and live eternally. And meditate on the word daily. Psalms 1:1-3. Study the Word to be blessed.
2. What is the importance of prophecy and fulfilment? Because of faith, we can believe. John (14:29)
3. Why was God’s favor on Ezra? Ezra devoted himself to the study and observance of God’s law.
4. Does Jesus automatically bless those who believe in Him?
5. What is the standard for entry into Heaven? To do God’s will
6. How do we know God’s will? We need to study the Word. God’s will is recorded in prophecy.
7. What is the standard of blessing? Understand God’s Word. Study
III. Glossary of Key Terms
- Blessed: Favored by God; experiencing spiritual well-being and prosperity as a result of obedience and faith.
- Delight: To take great pleasure in something; to find joy and satisfaction in God’s word.
- Eternal Life: Life that continues forever in the presence of God, a gift received through faith in Jesus Christ.
- Faith: Trust and confidence in God and His promises, evidenced by obedience and actions.
- Gracious Hand of God: A symbol of God’s favor, protection, and guidance in a person’s life.
- Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: A deep longing for holiness and justice; an eagerness to know and follow God’s will.
- Law of the Lord: God’s commands and teachings as revealed in the Bible, providing guidance for living a righteous life.
- Meditate: To reflect deeply and thoughtfully on God’s word; to ponder its meaning and application to life.
- Prophecy: A message from God revealed through His prophets, often foretelling future events or proclaiming God’s will.
- Righteousness: The quality of being morally right and just; living in accordance with God’s standards.
IV. Answer Key (Short Answer Questions)
- Simon Peter realized that only Jesus had the “words of eternal life.” This statement signifies his understanding that Jesus is the only true source of salvation and spiritual guidance.
- People rejected Jesus’ teachings because they took his words about eating his flesh and drinking his blood literally, finding them disturbing. We should approach challenging passages with openness and curiosity, seeking deeper understanding.
- John 14:29 highlights the importance of prophecy by stating that Jesus foretold events so that when they occur, people would believe. Prophecy serves as evidence for faith and reinforces the truth of God’s word.
- A blessed person, according to Psalm 1, finds delight in God’s law and meditates on it day and night. They are compared to a tree planted by streams of water, symbolizing continual nourishment and flourishing.
- The seed in both Luke 8:11 and James 1:18 represents the word of God. It signifies that the word planted in our hearts has the power to bring forth spiritual growth and new life.
- Matthew 5:6 describes those who “hunger and thirst for righteousness” as blessed. This suggests that we should have an eager and constant desire for God’s word and His will in our lives.
- The house built on rock represents a person whose faith is firmly grounded in God’s word, enabling them to withstand challenges. The house on sand represents a person whose faith is weak and easily shaken.
- Ezra devoted himself to studying and obeying God’s law. His commitment to scripture earned God’s favor and led to him being entrusted with leading the Israelites back to their homeland.
- Jesus stated that those who “hear the word of God and obey it” are blessed. This highlights the importance of putting God’s teachings into practice, not just listening passively.
- Matthew 7:21-23 emphasizes that simply professing faith in Jesus is not enough to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. True believers must actively do God’s will, demonstrating their faith through their actions.
Breakdown
Timeline of Events:
- Old Testament Events:
- Downfall of Israel during Solomon’s reign due to idolatry: This sets the stage for the subsequent events and is mentioned to provide context for Ezra’s story.
- Destruction of Israel and enslavement in Babylon for 70 years: This period of exile is crucial to understanding Ezra’s mission and the significance of his return to Jerusalem.
- Ezra’s return to Jerusalem: This event takes place towards the end of the 70-year exile and marks a turning point in the restoration of Israel.
- New Testament Events:
- Jesus’ Ministry: The source primarily focuses on events and teachings from Jesus’ ministry, particularly from the Gospel of John.
- Disciples Questioning Jesus (John 6): This event highlights the challenging nature of some of Jesus’ teachings and the commitment required of his followers.
- Jesus’ Prophecy of His Second Coming (John 14:29): This prophecy emphasizes the importance of understanding and believing in prophecy for solidifying faith.
Note: The source does not provide specific dates for these events but relies on the accepted Biblical chronology.
Cast of Characters:
- Instructor Paul:
- Bio: The instructor leading the Bible class. He emphasizes the importance of studying and applying God’s word for spiritual growth and stability. He shares personal anecdotes about how specific verses, like John 6:68, have impacted his faith journey.
- Jesus Christ:
- Bio: The central figure of the Christian faith, presented as the Son of God and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The source focuses on his teachings, particularly his challenging sayings and the importance of understanding prophecy.
- Simon Peter:
- Bio: One of Jesus’ twelve disciples. He is highlighted for his declaration of faith in John 6:68, expressing the belief that Jesus alone holds the words of eternal life.
- Ezra:
- Bio: A skilled teacher and scribe who was devoted to studying and obeying God’s law. He is presented as an example of someone who received God’s blessings due to his dedication to Scripture. He led a group of Israelites back to Jerusalem from Babylonian exile and played a key role in rebuilding the temple.
- King David:
- Bio: King of Israel who is mentioned in the context of advising his son, Solomon, to serve God wholeheartedly. This emphasizes the importance of commitment and devotion in faith.
- King Solomon:
- Bio: Son of King David and heir to the throne. He is mentioned as the recipient of his father’s advice on seeking God with a willing mind and wholehearted devotion.
- Jonah:
- Bio: A prophet who initially disobeyed God’s command to preach repentance to the city of Nineveh. He is presented as an example of the importance of obedience to God’s will.
Note: Other Biblical figures are mentioned briefly as examples or in passing, such as those featured in parables or Old Testament prophecies. However, this cast list focuses on the primary individuals discussed in the lesson.
Overview
Overview: Harvest Class – Let’s Be Those Who Are Blessed
Main Themes:
- The paramount importance of studying and obeying God’s word for spiritual nourishment, stability, and receiving blessings.
- Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God’s promises and the lesson of true blessing and eternal life.
- The necessity of understanding prophecy and its fulfillment for strengthening faith and guiding actions.
- The call to wholeheartedly commit to seeking God and aligning our lives with His will, going beyond mere words.
Key Ideas and Facts:
1. The Blessed Life:
- Delight in God’s Word: Those who delight in the law of the Lord are like a tree planted by streams of water, always flourishing and bearing fruit (Psalm 1:1-3).
- Hunger for Righteousness: Cultivate an insatiable hunger for God’s word, seeking constant nourishment and growth (Matthew 5:6).
- Unshakable Foundation: Building our lives on the solid rock of God’s word provides stability and security amidst life’s storms (Matthew 7:24-27).
2. Ezra’s Example:
- Ezra’s devotion to studying and obeying God’s law brought him God’s favor and abundant blessings, enabling him to lead the Israelites back to their homeland and rebuild the temple (Ezra 7:6-10).
- Emulating Ezra’s commitment to scripture positions us to receive God’s blessings and participate in His plan.
3. Understanding God’s Blessings:
- Beyond Literal Words: Jesus embodies the blessings promised in scripture. He is the fulfillment of God’s salvation and the source of eternal life (John 5:39).
- Obedience is Key: True blessing comes not just from hearing God’s word but from obeying it. Action is essential (Luke 11:27-28).
- Doing God’s Will: Professing belief in Jesus is insufficient. Entering the kingdom of heaven requires knowing and doing the will of God (Matthew 7:21-23).
4. The Urgency of Studying Prophecy:
- Knowing God’s Will: Understanding prophecy reveals God’s will and prepares us to act according to His plan.
- Timing and Context: God expects people to act according to His will within the appropriate timeframe and context (Acts 17).
- Priority and Commitment: Dedicating ourselves wholeheartedly to studying God’s word, like King David advised Solomon, is crucial for spiritual growth and success (1 Chronicles 28:9).
5. Seeking God’s Kingdom First:
- Committing Our Plans: Committing our plans to the Lord and seeking His righteousness above all else leads to true success and alignment with His will (Proverbs 16:3, Matthew 6:31-33).
- Perseverance and Purpose: Don’t be deterred by worldly obstacles. Press on in seeking God’s wisdom for personal growth and a deeper relationship with Him.
Important Quotes:
- John 6:68: “Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
- Psalm 1:3: “That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.”
- Matthew 5:6: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
- Luke 11:28: “He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
- Matthew 7:21: ““Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
- 1 Chronicles 28:9: “If you seek him, he will be found by you; but if you forsake him, he will reject you forever.”
- Proverbs 16:3: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”
- Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Call to Action:
The class urges students to prioritize studying God’s word, seeking understanding of prophecy, and aligning their actions with His will. This path leads to true blessing, spiritual stability, and a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
Q&A
Q&A: The Importance of Studying and Applying God’s Word
1. Why is it important to study the Bible?
There are several reasons why studying the Bible is crucial for Christians:
- To Gain Understanding of God: The Bible reveals God’s character, His will, and His plan for humanity. Through scripture, we gain a deeper understanding of who God is and what He desires for us.
- To Receive Eternal Life: John 17:3 states, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” Knowing God and Jesus Christ is the pathway to eternal life.
- To Avoid Destruction: Hosea 4:6 warns, “my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. ‘Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children.” Lack of biblical knowledge can lead to spiritual destruction.
2. What are the consequences of not knowing the Bible?
Ignoring God’s word can have severe consequences, including:
- Spiritual Blindness: Without the light of scripture, we stumble in darkness and make decisions that lead us away from God.
- Curses and Plagues: The Old Testament recounts numerous instances where God’s people faced hardship and suffering due to their disobedience and disregard for His laws.
- Loss of Salvation: While salvation is a gift from God, it requires faith and obedience to His word. Ignoring the Bible risks jeopardizing our relationship with God.
3. How can I receive God’s blessings?
God’s blessings are not automatic. We must actively pursue a relationship with Him through:
- Delighting in His Word: Psalm 1 compares a person who loves God’s law to a flourishing tree planted by water. We should find joy and nourishment in scripture.
- Studying and Obeying Scripture: Ezra’s devotion to God’s law led to God’s favor and blessing. We must not only read the Bible but apply its teachings to our lives.
- Hungering for Righteousness: Matthew 5:6 blesses those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Cultivate an insatiable desire to know and follow God’s will.
4. Does simply believing in Jesus guarantee salvation?
Matthew 7:21-23 warns that not everyone who calls Jesus “Lord” will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. True faith is demonstrated through obedience to God’s will, not mere profession. We must strive to understand and align our actions with God’s commands.
5. What is the importance of prophecy in the Bible?
Prophecy plays a crucial role in our faith for several reasons:
- Evidence of God’s Power: Fulfilled prophecies demonstrate God’s foreknowledge and power, strengthening our faith and trust in Him.
- Preparation for the Future: Prophecies reveal God’s plan for the future, enabling us to prepare and respond appropriately to coming events.
- Foundation for Belief: John 14:29 highlights that prophecy and its fulfillment strengthen our belief. When we see God’s word come to pass, it deepens our conviction in His truthfulness.
6. How can I understand difficult prophecies in the Bible?
Understanding prophecy requires:
- Diligent Study: Dedicate time to studying scripture and seeking understanding through prayer, biblical resources, and fellowship with other believers.
- Contextual Awareness: Consider the historical and cultural context surrounding the prophecy, as well as its place within the overall biblical narrative.
- Patience and Humility: Recognize that not all prophecies are immediately clear. Remain open to God’s revelation and trust that He will grant understanding in His time.
7. How can I make time for Bible study amidst a busy life?
Prioritizing God’s word requires intentionality:
- Schedule Dedicated Time: Set aside specific time slots in your week for Bible study, just as you would for important appointments.
- Eliminate Distractions: Find a quiet space where you can focus without interruptions from technology or other distractions.
- Start Small and Be Consistent: Begin with shorter study sessions and gradually increase the time as you develop the habit.
8. How should I apply the Bible to my daily life?
- Meditation and Reflection: Take time to ponder the meaning of scripture and its relevance to your personal circumstances.
- Obedience: Strive to put biblical teachings into practice in your daily choices, relationships, and actions.
- Accountability: Share your insights with others and seek support from fellow believers to encourage growth and application.