behold god our - racine bible

Behold ourGod

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into

the same image from one degree of glory to another.

2 Corinthians 3:18

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SEPTEMBER15 Mark 1 19 Mark 5 23 Mark 9 27 Mark 1316 Mark 2 20 Mark 6 24 Mark 10 28 Mark 1417 Mark 3 21 Mark 7 25 Mark 11 29 Mark 1518 Mark 4 22 Mark 8 26 Mark 12 30 Mark 16

OCTOBER1 Matthew 1 9 Matthew 9 17 Matthew 17 25 Matthew 25

2 Matthew 2 10 Matthew 10 18 Matthew 18 26 Matthew 26



5 Matthew 5 13 Matthew 13 21 Matthew 21 29 Open



8 Matthew 8 16 Matthew 16 24 Matthew 24

NOVEMBER1 Luke 1 9 Luke 9 17 Luke 17 25 Open

2 Luke 2 10 Luke 10 18 Luke 18 26 Open





7 Luke 7 15 Luke 15 23 Luke 23


DECEMBER1 John 1 9 John 9 17 John 17 25 Luke 2

2 John 2 10 John 10 18 John 18 26 John 1

3 John 3 11 John 11 19 John 19 27 Open



6 John 6 14 John 14 22 Matthew 1 30 Open

7 John 7 15 John 15 23 Matthew 2 31 Open

8 John 8 16 John 16 24 Luke 1

JANUARY1 Genesis 22 9 1 Samuel 3 17 Esther 9 25 Ecclesiastes 12

2 Exodus 12 10 2 Samuel 7 18 Job 38 26 Song of Songs 2

3 Leviticus 16 11 1 Kings 3 19 Psalm 22 27 Isaiah 53

4 Numbers 21 12 2 Kings 4 20 Fort Devo 28 Jeremiah 23

5 Deuteronomy 18 13 1 Chronicles 17 21 Fort Devo 29 Lamentations 3

6 Joshua 5 14 2 Chronicles 6 22 Fort Devo 30 Ezekiel 34

7 Judges 13 15 Ezra 7 23 Fort Devo 31 Daniel 3

8 Ruth 1 16 Nehemiah 9 24 Proverbs 30

FEBRUARY1 Hosea 3 8 Habakkuk 3 15 Mark 3 22 Mark 10

2 Joel 2 9 Zephaniah 3 16 Mark 4 23 Mark 11

3 Amos 8 10 Haggai 2 17 Mark 5 24 Mark 12

4 Obadiah 1 11 Zechariah 9 18 Mark 6 25 Mark 13

5 Jonah 1-4 12 Malachi 4 19 Mark 7 26 Mark 14

6 Micah 5 13 Mark 1 20 Mark 8 27 Mark 15

7 Nahum 2 14 Mark 2 21 Mark 9 28 Mark 16

MARCH1 Matthew 1 9 Matthew 9 17 Matthew 17 25 Matthew 25







8 Matthew 8 16 Matthew 16 24 Matthew 24

APRIL1 Luke 1 9 Luke 9 17 Luke 17 25 Open








MAY1 John 1 7 John 7 13 John 13 19 John 19






2016-2017 Bible Reading PlanNo spiritual discipline is more important than the intake of God’s word. Nothing can substitute for it. In the Bible God tells us about Himself, and especially about Jesus Christ, the incarnation of God. We find in Scripture how God wants us to live, and what brings the most joy and satisfaction in life. None of this eternally essential information can be found anywhere else except the Bible.

- Donald S. Whitney

ABF Snack List

Date HS Snack MS SnackSeptember 11 Micah/Sydney Andersen Fayth/Rebekah BlackSeptember 18 Ambrose Nelson/Jordan Anatucci Joshua Peters/Viggo Nelson September 25 Caleb/Sam Beilgard Ashley/Grace HanelOctober 2 Tyler Friese/Ben Gehrand Harley Gehrand/Isaac Friese October 9 Ryan/Kevin Hall Olivia Westover/Jordan TuinstraOctober 16 Noah/Aiden Nichter Reagan LaPointe/Kiara LarrabeeOctober 23 Caleb Shumway/James Tubbs Ben Wolgemuth/Joshua Shumway October 30 Clayton Wallace/Monica Trevino Isabela Ross/Rachel Wallace November 6 Todd/Tanner Wollin Jorja Makovsky/Gabriella NeidefferNovember 13 John Zaiser/Emmalee Wollin Luke/Noelle BowersNovember 20 Kaitlyn Alexander/Janelle Shiffler Josiah/Dakota BeresfordNovember 27 Maddi Druktenis/Riley McMahon Ella Druktenis/Rebecca JohnsonDecember 4 Kathy Haumersen/Hannah Bryson David Barrera/Logan AndersenDecember 11 Kailey/Calvin Struebing Carter Struebing/Luke Stock December 18 Taylor/Chase Williams Cami/Carter LowmanDecember 25 None—No ABF None—No ABF January 1 None—No ABF None—No ABF January 8 Courtney/Justin Wiedenbeck Joey/Andrew KarvelasJanuary 15 Brendan/Mallory Farmer Isaac Wietkuhn/Jonathon KosinskiJanuary 22 None—Fort Retreat None—Fort Retreat January 29 Jeremiah/Samuel Bose Brandon Beauford/Aaron Bose February 5 Miguel/Thalia Contreras Bria Wright/Tatiana Contreras February 12 Eli/Grace VanPietersom Emmett Marckese/Andrew NicholsFebruary 19 Nick Imhof/Josh Weber Brooklyn/Gavin CainFebruary 26 Hunter Shanahan/Tommy Cook Tyler/Jeremiah Cook March 5 Josh Willems/Micah Purdy Ian Purdy/Mya March 12 Jared Jamel/Mikayla Crum Grace Hauser/Madelyn Jamel March 19 Floyd/Holly Eck Tommy/Jackie RouseMarch 26 Abby Lovdahl/Paige Salvhus Emily Saunders/Peyton Salvhus April 2 Julia Schook/Gabrielle Shimada Mackenzy Schook/Meredith ShimadaApril 9 Anna DeLaO/Izzy Kalashian Hannah Kalashian/Holly Orth April 16 Alie Larrabee/Erica Saunders John Goines/Logan CrumApril 23 Naduah S./Natalie V. Geneva Gabbey/Megan GenzApril 30 Audrey Westover/Brooke A. Austin/Ashlyn LowellMay 7 Raina Murillo/Christa Tucker Elizabeth Spang/Sophie TuckerMay 14 Jeremiah Bose/Miguel C. Josiah Beresford/Jordan TuinstraMay 21 Brendan Farmer/John Zaiser Aaron Bose/Luke BowersMay 28 Eli VanPietersom/Logan Johnson Logan Crum/John GoinesJune 4 Kaitlyn Alexander/Maddi D. Austin Lowell/Viggo NelsonJune 11 None—Church Picnic None—Church Picnic June 18 Kathy Haumersen/Riley M. Cami/Carter LowmanJune 25 Janelle Shiffler/Kailey Struebing Joshua Peters/Ian PurdyJuly 2 Courtney W./Taylor Williams Tommy Rouse/Ella DruktenisJuly 9 Emmalee Wollin/Hannah Bryson Ashley/Grace Hanel

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Behold ourGod

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into

the same image from one degree of glory to another.

2 Corinthians 3:18

31 STORIES OF JESUS

JESUS TURNS WATER INTO WINESEPTEMBER 14, 2016 — JOHN 2:1-11

JESUS CALLS PETER TO FOLLOW HIMSEPTEMBER 21, 2016 — LUKE 5:1-11

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[2:1] On the third day there was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. [2] Jesus also was invited to the wedding with his disciples. [3] When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” [4] And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come.” [5] His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” [6] Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. [7] Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. [8] And he said to them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.” So they took it. [9] When the master of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom [10] and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now.” [11] This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory. And his disciples believed in him.

Questions1 What do we learn about Jesus from this story?

2 What are Mary’s instructions to the servants (v. 5)? How is this applicable to us?

3 Why does Jesus do this miracle? What is Jesus teaching/showing us by doing this (v. 10)?

4 Think Deeply: How have you experienced the richness of Jesus and what He’s done (shown in the best wine Jesus miraculously had changed)?

Challenge One AnotherHow is your time in God’s Word? What about prayer? How connected are you to fellowship at RBC? Are you in any sin? To whom are you reaching out?

For This Week 1 In God’s Word: This week, we will be reading the first seven chapters of Mark,

which talks about the life and ministry of Jesus.

2 In worship: Worship with the song “Our God” by Chris Tomlin, which high-lights this miracle (and others) of our great God.

3 In life: Turn Psalm 4 into a prayer of worship and memorize v.7: “You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.”

[5:1] On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, [2] and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. [3] Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. [4] And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” [5] And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” [6] And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. [7] They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. [8] But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” [9] For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, [10] and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” [11] And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.


2 Jesus’ command to fish during the day made little sense, yet Peter obeyed. If true obedience is: (1) immediate, (2) full—not obeying partly, (3) done with joy, which of these is the hardest for you in obeying Jesus?

3 What was Peter’s reaction to seeing Jesus’ power and authority (v. 8)? Why? Why does Jesus provoke this response?

4 What was the new job Jesus gave to Peter (v. 10)? How are you doing at this job?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Read the next 7 chapters about Jesus in Mark. Jot down what

you learn about Jesus each day as you read.

2 In worship: This week, spend time like Peter, falling at the feet of Jesus in repentance and worship. Confess sin and worship Him, because He is worthy.

3 In life: Look for ways to obey your parents in the three ways describe in question 2.

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JESUS CALLS MATTHEW TO FOLLOW HIMSEPTEMBER 28, 2016 — MATTHEW 9:9-13

JESUS IS TEMPTED BY SATANOCTOBER 5, 2016 — MATTHEW 4:1-11

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[9] As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. [10] And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. [11] And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” [12] But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. [13] Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”


2 Matthew gets saved and immediately throws a party to introduce his friends to Jesus (v. 10). How many of your friends/family have heard the Gospel through you?

3 What does Jesus mean in v. 12-13?

4 How sinful are you? What has Jesus saved you from?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: This week, we’ll finish Mark and start the Gospel of Matthew.

On October 1, we’ll read Matthew 1; on October 2, we’ll read Matthew 2, and so on.

2 In worship: Look up and worship with the song: “Jesus Thank You” by Sovereign Grace.

3 In life: Reach out to one of your friends and tell them (in a fun way, like Matthew did) about how Jesus has changed your life.

[4:1] Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. [2] And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. [3] And the tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” [4] But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” [5] Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple [6] and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, “‘He will command his angels concerning you,’ and “‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.’” [7] Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” [8] Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. [9] And he said to him, “All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.” [10] Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’” [11] Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him.


2 Jesus knows that to defeat temptation, you must have the power of God’s Word (v. 4, 7, 10). How well do you know God’s Word? How often are you in it?

3 Satan offers Jesus glory in v. 5—something Jesus ought to receive. In what ways are you tempted to receive glory from people in wrong ways?

4 Satan offers Jesus the kingdoms of the world, but without having to die on the cross and suffer (v. 8-9). If you could have everything you want, but not have Jesus, would you take it? Why or why not?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Read the story of Jesus in Matthew—notice this week the teach-

ing and authority that Jesus has and write down one thing you learn about Jesus.

2 In worship: Memorize and meditate on Hebrews 4.15-16.

3 In life: Share in your group one way you can practically resist temptation this week—then do it!

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JESUS SHOWS THE HIGH VALUE OF PRAYEROCTOBER 12, 2016 — MARK 1:29-39

JESUS CALMS THE STORMOCTOBER 19, 2016 — MARK 4:35-41

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[29] And immediately he left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. [30] Now Simon's mother-in-law lay ill with a fever, and immediately they told him about her. [31] And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her, and she began to serve them. [32] That evening at sundown they brought to him all who were sick or oppressed by demons. [33] And the whole city was gathered together at the door. [34] And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. And he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. [35] And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he de-parted and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. [36] And Simon and those who were with him searched for him, [37] and they found him and said to him, “Everyone is looking for you.” [38] And he said to them, “Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is why I came out.” [39] And he went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons.


2 After a long, busy, tiring day, what do you normal go to? Why does Jesus go to pray? How does this challenge you?

3 Discuss in your small group your prayer life. What does it look like? How much do you pray? Do you ever get alone, get up early, use free time, to pray?

4 Jesus left sick people in the town, unhealed, to continue to preach (v. 38-39). What does this teach us about Jesus?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Continue in Matthew—and journal about what you learn about

Jesus from the parables and miracles of Jesus.

2 In worship: Look up the lyrics and worship with the hymn: “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” which highlights the priority of prayer.

3 In life: Set your alarm earlier than you normally do, and wake up early, and spend time in worship and prayer with Jesus.

[35] On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” [36] And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. [37] And a great wind-storm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was al-ready filling. [38] But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” [39] And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. [40] He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” [41] And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”


2 The disciples are terrified by the storm, yet Jesus is asleep. Why?

3 The storm can serve as a picture of the difficulties we go through. What is your usual reaction to difficulty or trial? What is Jesus reaction (hint: same as in this story)?

4 Practically speaking, how can you grow in faith? And how does Jesus factor in to conquering fear?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Read the chapters about Jesus in Matthew and write down

what stands out to you about Jesus.

2 In worship: Look up, read over, and worship with the song “Now Why This Fear?” which reminds us that we have nothing to fear.

3 In life: Talk with a friend about something that you fear and have them pray for you to actively trust Jesus and His power and not be overwhelmed with fear.

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JESUS CASTS OUT DEMONSOCTOBER 26, 2016 — MARK 5:1-20

JESUS HEALS A PARALYTICNOVEMBER 9, 2016 — MATTHEW 9:1-8

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[5:1] They came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gerasenes. [2] And when Jesus had stepped out of the boat, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. [3] He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, [4] for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. [5] Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones. [6] And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. [7] And crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.” [8] For he was saying to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” [9] And Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion, for we are many.” [10] And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. [11] Now a great herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside, [12] and they begged him, saying, “Send us to the pigs; let us enter them.” [13] So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out and entered the pigs; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the sea. [14] The herdsmen fled and told it in the city and in the country. And people came to see what it was that had happened. [15] And they came to Jesus and saw the demon-possessed man, the one who had had the legion, sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, and they were afraid. [16] And those who had seen it described to them what had happened to the demon-possessed man and to the pigs. [17] And they began to beg Jesus to depart from their region. [18] As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. [19] And he did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” [20] And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled.


2 What is the demon’s response to Jesus? Does this surprise you? Why or why not?

3 This man was a Gentile and demon-possessed, yet Jesus had compassion on him. What does this teach us about compassion and care?

4 It may surprise us that Jesus did not let the man follow Him, but told him to tell others in that country about his changed life (v. 19-20). Who can you tell about your changed life?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: We’ll finish Matthew this week and start in on Luke. If you haven’t been

reading, this is a great place to jump in.

2 In worship: Read the lyrics and worship with the song: “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God,” which talks about Jesus’ power over the demonic realm.

3 In life: Your life may not have changed as dramatically as the man in this story, but who can you share with this week about how Jesus has changed you?

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[9:1] And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. [2] And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” [3] And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” [4] But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? [5] For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? [6] But that you may know that the Son of Man has au-thority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” [7] And he rose and went home. [8] When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.


2 Which is easier for Jesus to say: Your sins are forgiven or You are healed? Why?

3 Jesus can heal any disease, any sickness, any illness—and He did so hundreds of times on earth. Why might Jesus not heal someone?

4 The most obvious problem in this man’s life was his physical problem. But Jesus first took care of the actual biggest problem: his sin. What do you tend to think about more—your physical problems or spiritual? What do you pray about more?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Continue to read about the life of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke,

written by Dr. Luke, who traveled with Paul as a missionary.

2 In worship: Look up the lyrics and worship with “10,000 Reasons” by Matt Redman.

3 In life: Memorize Psalm 103.2-3: “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases.”

JESUS RAISES A GIRL FROM THE DEADNOVEMBER 16, 2016 — MARK 5:21-43

JESUS CONFRONTS THE RELIGIOUS HYPOCRITESNOVEMBER 30, 2016 — MATTHEW 15:1-20

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[21] And when Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him, and he was beside the sea. [22] Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing him, he fell at his feet [23] and implored him earnestly, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well and live.” [24] And he went with him. And a great crowd followed him and thronged about him. [25] And there was a woman who had had a discharge of blood for twelve years, [26] and who had suffered much under many phy-sicians, and had spent all that she had, and was no better but rather grew worse. [27] She had heard the reports about Jesus and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his garment. [28] For she said, “If I touch even his garments, I will be made well.” [29] And immediately the flow of blood dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of her disease. [30] And Jesus, perceiving in himself that power had gone out from him, immediately turned about in the crowd and said, “Who touched my garments?” [31] And his disciples said to him, “You see the crowd pressing around you, and yet you say, ‘Who touched me?’” [32] And he looked around to see who had done it. [33] But the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came in fear and trembling and fell down before him and told him the whole truth. [34] And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.” [35] While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” [36] But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” [37] And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James. [38] They came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and Jesus saw a com-motion, people weeping and wailing loudly. [39] And when he had entered, he said to them, “Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleep-ing.” [40] And they laughed at him. But he put them all outside and took the child's father and mother and those who were with him and went in where the child was. [41] Taking her by the hand he said to her, “Talitha cumi,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” [42] And immediately the girl got up and began walking (for she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement. [43] And he strictly charged them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat.

Questions1 What do we learn about Jesus from this story?2 What role does faith play in this story? What is more important: the object of faith

(Jesus) or the amount of faith that the person has?3 Notice the patience of Jesus. Even with a girl dying, He stops to help someone. He

doesn’t respond to those who laugh at Him (v. 40) 1-10, how do you rate in patience? 4 How does Jesus’ perspective differ from everyone else’s (v. 39)? How might we not see

His perspective, but only be limited to our own?

Challenge One AnotherHow is your time in God’s Word? What about prayer? How connected are you to fellow-ship at RBC? Are you in any sin? To whom are you reaching out?

For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Read the end of Luke this week and meditate on Jesus, the Son of God. 2 In worship: Look up and worship with the hymn: “Great is Thy Faithfulness” about the

goodness and faithfulness of God to us. 3 In life: Memorize John 11.25: “Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.

Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live,”

[15:1] Then Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and said, [2] “Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat.” [3] He answered them, “And why do you break the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? [4] For God command-ed, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ [5] But you say, ‘If anyone tells his father or his mother, “What you would have gained from me is given to God,” [6] he need not honor his father.’ So for the sake of your tradition you have made void the word of God. [7] You hyp-ocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, when he said: [8] “‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; [9] in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’” [10] And he called the people to him and said to them, “Hear and understand: [11] it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.” [12] Then the disciples came and said to him, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?” [13] He answered, “Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be rooted up. [14] Let them alone; they are blind guides. And if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit.” [15] But Peter said to him, “Explain the parable to us.” [16] And he said, “Are you also still without understanding? [17] Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is expelled? [18] But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person. [19] For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. [20] These are what defile a person. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile anyone.”


2 What was the reaction of the religious leaders to what Jesus said to them (v. 12)? Why doesn’t Jesus do something about that? What does this teach us?

3 What is so dangerous about v. 8-9? Do we have people like that in our youth group? In our small group? Are you one?

4 Why does Jesus emphasize the heart (18-20)? What comes from yours?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Tomorrow, we start the Gospel of John—one chapter a day. 2 In worship: Look at the lyrics and worship with the song: “O Great God” by

Sovereign Grace, which talks about God needing to rule in our hearts. 3 In life: Are you ever offended by Jesus? What is something that Jesus is

telling you that you don’t like to hear? What will you do about it?

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JESUS CHALLENGES THE AMERICAN DREAM/RICH YOUNG RULER

DECEMBER 7, 2016 — MATTHEW 19:16-30

GOD BECOMES HUMANDECEMBER 14, 2016 — LUKE 2:1-20

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[16] And behold, a man came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” [17] And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” [18] He said to him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, [19] Honor your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” [20] The young man said to him, “All these I have kept. What do I still lack?” [21] Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” [22] When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. [23] And Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven. [24] Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” [25] When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” [26] But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” [27] Then Peter said in reply, “See, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?” [28] Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. [29] And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name's sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. [30] But many who are first will be last, and the last first.


2 How does Jesus’ first question in v. 17 hint at what He will tell the young man?

3 Jesus seems like the last person you want doing evangelism—people want to be saved and He’s sending them away! But what is really happening (v. 22-23)?

4 What is the lesson Jesus teaches us in v. 24-26? What must we do (v. 29)?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Read the middle section of John this week, which shows why we

can believe that Jesus really is the Christ, the Son of God. 2 In worship: Look up the lyrics to and worship with the song: “All I Have Is Christ”

which reminds us the things of this world are nothing compared to Jesus.3 In life: Pick a missionary and pray for them this week. In a lot of ways, they are

giving up so much in this life to proclaim the Gospel. Pray for them this week.

[2:1] In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. [2] This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. [3] And all went to be registered, each to his own town. [4] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, [5] to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. [6] And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. [7] And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. [8] And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. [9] And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. [10] And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. [11] For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. [12] And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” [13] And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, [14] “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” [15] When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” [16] And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. [17] And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. [18] And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. [19] But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. [20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.


2 Why is it important that Jesus was also 100% human?

3 What does the fact that only shepherds came to worship Jesus tell us about God?

4 The shepherds encountered Jesus and were changed—they told everyone about their experience. How has encountering Jesus changed you? Who are you telling?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Finish John and do some of the extra Christmas readings over break. Don’t

let Xmas break be a break from the Word!

2 In worship: Look up and worship with the song “He Who Is Mighty” by Sovereign Grace, which talks about Jesus becoming man—and what He has done for us.

3 In life: Over break, get together with some RBC friends and praise God for what He has done. Have everyone pray and thank God for the gift of Jesus to save us.

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JESUS FEEDS 20,000 PEOPLE JANUARY 4, 2017 — MATTHEW 14:13-21

JESUS WALKS ON WATERJANUARY 11, 2017 — MATTHEW 14:22-33

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[13] Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. [14] When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick. [15] Now when it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” [16] But Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” [17] They said to him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” [18] And he said, “Bring them here to me.” [19] Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass, and taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. [20] And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. [21] And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.


2 Right before this story happens, Jesus learns of the execution of his friend and cousin, John. What does He do with the sad news (Matt 14.13)?

3 Rather than prefer Himself, Jesus serves the crowds—why (v. 34)?

4 Why would the disciples need faith to sit the people in groups of fifty (38-39)?

5 How does seeing Jesus power over creation shape your worship of Him?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: For January, and the first part of February, we’re going to read

1 chapter a day from the Old Testament. Each chapter foreshadows Jesus. Write down what you learn about Him from the OT.

2 In worship: Look up and worship with the song: ”Come Thou Fount” which reminds us that every blessing in life is from Him.

3 In life: Take time alone—more time than usual—to get alone and meet with Jesus.

[22] Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go be-fore him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. [23] And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, [24] but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. [25] And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. [26] But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. [27] But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” [28] And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” [29] He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. [30] But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” [31] Jesus imme-diately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” [32] And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. [33] And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”


2 What does Jesus do, at perhaps the height of His popularity (v. 23)? Why? What does this teach us?

3 The disciples are afraid of what turns out to be Jesus (v. 27). Are you ever afraid of things—even if God is at work in them?

4 Do you ever lose your focus like Peter (v. 30)? What is the remedy?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: This week, we’re reading chapters from the history books of

the Old Testament. Take note of how they preview the coming of Jesus.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Be Still My Soul” by Selah or Kari Jobe, which reminds us that creation still knows the voice of Jesus, who rules over them.

3 In life: Memorize Psalm 56.3-4:”When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?”

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JESUS OFFERS REST TO THE WEARYJANUARY 25, 2017 — MATTHEW 11:25-30

JESUS CONTRASTS MARY & MARTHAFEBRUARY 1, 2017 — LUKE 10:38-42

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[25] At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; [26] yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. [27] All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. [28] Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Questions1 What do we learn about Jesus from this section?

2 Jesus has always existed, creating everything (v. 15-16). He does this trans-form your worship of Him?

3 It’s pretty easy for us to get stressed and overwhelmed with life. With Jesus in mind, how can we fight this tendency (v. 17)?

4 Verses 21-23 are a sweet picture of the Gospel. What stands out to you from here? What is true of everyone who is genuinely saved (v. 23)?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: This week, we are reading chapters from the wisdom literature

of the Old Testament. They hint at the coming of Jesus—the Son of God.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Jesus is the Lord” by Travis Cottrell. It talks about the coming return of Jesus, where everyone will see His greatness.

3 In life: What will keep you in the faith “stable and steadfast”? Talk to two Christians older than you and ask them what has kept them stable in the faith.

[38] Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. [39] And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. [40] But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” [41] But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, [42] but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”


2 What was the difference between the two sisters? What was Jesus’ response to them?

3 Martha’s busyness is causing her to be “anxious and troubled” (v. 40). Jesus does not want you to be busy, anxious, and troubled. Are you in this position? What can you do about it when you are?

4 What is the one thing that is necessary (v. 42)? Does your life reflect that it is necessary? What must you do about it if it is not?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: We’re finishing reading about Jesus in the Old Testament—this

week, we read from the prophets that predict His coming.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Lord I Need You” by Chris Tomlin—talking about our need for Jesus. It is the one thing that is necessary.

3 In life: Make time with Jesus a priority. What do you consider necessary: sleep, eating, homework, sports, family? How can Jesus take priority?

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JESUS EXPLAINS THE COST TO FOLLOW HIMFEBRUARY 8, 2017 — MARK 8:31-38

JESUS IS REJECTEDFEBRUARY 15, 2017 — MARK 3:21, 31-35, 6:1-6

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[31] And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again. [32] And he said this plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. [33] But turning and seeing his disci-ples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” [34] And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. [35] For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. [36] For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? [37] For what can a man give in return for his soul? [38] For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulter-ous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”


2 Peter rebukes Jesus, because He doesn’t like Jesus’ plans (v. 32). Do you ever tell God you don’t like His plans? When?

3 So many people spend so much time, money, and effort for things that will not last. On a scale of 1-10, how much do you pursue those things? What does it mean to deny yourself? What about to gain the whole world and forfeit your soul?

4 Are you ever ashamed of Jesus (v. 38)? What will it mean when Jesus returns and isn’t ashamed of you?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: We finish Jesus in the OT and start the Gospel of Mark. Take

note of what these chapters say about Jesus.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken” which talks about following Jesus no matter what the cost.

3 In life: Memorize Mark 8.36-37: For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul?

[21] And when his family heard Jesus’ teaching, they went out to seize him, for they were saying, “He is out of his mind.” [31] And his mother and his brothers came, and standing outside they sent to him and called him. [32] And a crowd was sitting around him, and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers are outside, seeking you.” [33] And he answered them, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” [34] And looking about at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! [35] For whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother.” [6:1] He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him. [2] And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the syna-gogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands? [3] Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. [4] And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.” [5] And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them. [6] And he marveled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching.


2 Have people in your family ever rejected you in some way because of your faith in Jesus? How so?

3 Jesus emphasizes the importance of the spiritual family (v. 33-35). Who is in the family of God? How close are you to this family?

4 What does it to you mean to see that even Jesus got rejected by those close to Him?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: As you read about the life of Jesus, notice the contrast between

Jesus’ actions and how His disciples respond to Him in the Gospel of Mark.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “It Is Well with My Soul” and worship God even if things are hard and difficult in life.

3 In life: This week, pray with someone in your group who is hurting. Maybe it isn’t because they’ve been rejected, but pray for them and follow up with them this week.

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JESUS TRANSFIGURED TO GLORIOUSNESSFEBRUARY 22, 2017 — MARK 9:2-10

JESUS SAYS "NO" TO JAMES & JOHNMARCH 1, 2017 — MARK 10:35-45

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[2] And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, [3] and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. [4] And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. [5] And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Eli-jah.” [6] For he did not know what to say, for they were terrified. [7] And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” [8] And suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them but Jesus only. [9] And as they were coming down the mountain, he charged them to tell no one what they had seen, until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. [10] So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what this rising from the dead might mean.


2 What does it mean that Jesus was transfigured (v. 2-3)?

3 What was the disciples reaction to seeing Jesus in His glory (v. 6)? What were other reactions of people in the Bible seeing Jesus in His glory (Revelation 1.17, Isaiah 6.5, Acts 9.3-4)?

4 Often, spiritual highs will be followed by spiritual testing. What follows this story (Mark 9.11-29)? What does this teach us?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: We finish the Gospel of Mark—looking at the last week of Jesus

and how He paid for our sins on the cross.

2 In worship: Worship with the hymn: “Holy, Holy, Holy” which takes about the majesty and glory of our great God.

3 In life: Memorize Psalm 27.4: “One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in his temple.”

[35] And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” [36] And he said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” [37] And they said to him, “Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” [38] Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” [39] And they said to him, “We are able.” And Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized, [40] but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” [41] And when the ten heard it, they began to be indignant at James and John. [42] And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. [43] But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, [44] and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. [45] For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”


2 James and John had a request they brought to Jesus—to be #1 and #2 in heaven (v 37). In what ways does selfishness pop out in your life?

3 What does Jesus say is the difference between the way the world looks at greatness and the way Jesus does (v. 42-44)?

4 What was Jesus’ attitude in coming to earth (v. 45)? Why is this striking? How does this cue us on how to act?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: If you have been slacking in your Bible reading (or even if you

haven’t), start up the Gospel of Matthew this week—and read it a chapter a day.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Be Thou My Vision” which asks God to reshape the way we look at life.

3 In life: Pick one way that you can serve your family this week—not to get noticed, but to emphasize serving others.

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JESUS HEALS BARTIMAEUSMARCH 8, 2017 — MARK 10:46-52

JESUS CLEANS OUT THE TEMPLEMARCH 15, 2017 — MARK 11:15-19

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[46] And they came to Jericho. And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. [47] And when he heard that it was Jesus of Naza-reth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” [48] And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” [49] And Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart. Get up; he is calling you.” [50] And throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. [51] And Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Rabbi, let me recover my sight.” [52] And Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him on the way.


2 When others try to shut down Bartimaeus, what does he do (v. 47-48)? What does this show us?

3 In the midst of his inability, Bartimaeus hears the words: “Take heart. Get up, Jesus is calling you (v. 49).” What does it mean for us to hear those same words about us?

4 Just as Jesus gave Bartimaeus his physical sight, Jesus also gives spiritu-al sight to those He saves. Why do we refer to spiritual understanding as “sight”?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Read Matthew 8-15 this week and journal about what amazes

you about Jesus.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Show Us Christ,” which talks about our need for God to open our eyes to see Jesus.

3 In life: What would it look like for you to demonstrate the same kind of desperation that Bartimaeus showed in pursuing Jesus? Talk with a leader or friend about one thing you could do to increase your passionate pursuit of Jesus.

[15] And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. [16] And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple. [17] And he was teaching them and saying to them, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations’? But you have made it a den of robbers.” [18] And the chief priests and the scribes heard it and were seeking a way to destroy him, for they feared him, because all the crowd was astonished at his teaching. [19] And when evening came they went out of the city.


2 Do you think all anger is wrong? Why does Jesus show anger in this story? Does this Jesus seem un-Christlike? Why or why not?

3 When and how is it appropriate to show godly anger? Can you think of examples? How does this side of Jesus help us better worship?

4 Jesus says that the Temple (the OT place of worship) was meant to be a house of prayer. How much is church a place of prayer? How could this improve?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: We’re in the middle of the Gospel of Matthew—read about the

life of Jesus every day—one chapter at time—and be amazed by Him.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Surrender All” by Sovereign Grace, which talks about us giving up all from the Lordship and rule of Jesus.

3 In life: Clear out false Christians from RBC with a whip. Just kidding. But make RBC a place of prayer this week. Find a few Christians you can stop and pray with while you are at church to increase prayer among God’s people.

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JESUS IS ANOINTEDMARCH 22, 2017 — LUKE 7:36-50

JESUS IN THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANEMARCH 29, 2017 — MARK 14:32-42

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[36] One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Phari-see's house and reclined at table. [37] And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was reclining at table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, [38] and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head and kissed his feet and anointed them with the ointment. [39] Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.” [40] And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “Say it, Teacher.” [41] “A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. [42] When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of both. Now which of them will love him more?” [43] Simon answered, “The one, I suppose, for whom he cancelled the larger debt.” And he said to him, “You have judged rightly.” [44] Then turning toward the woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. [45] You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet. [46] You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. [47] Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” [48] And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” [49] Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” [50] And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”


2 Whoever is forgiven much, loves much (v. 47). How great is your sin? How do you view Jesus’ forgiveness of your sin?

3 Passionate devotion for Jesus is driven out of a sense of forgiveness. Love follows forgiveness. How can you increase your love for Jesus?

4 Jesus told her that her faith saved her (v. 50). Why is it faith, and not her actions toward Jesus, that saved her?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Read the end of the Gospel of Matthew this week and note the

authority of Jesus—especially in His death and resurrection.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Alabaster Jar” which talks about giving our lives in service to Jesus.

3 In life: Like this woman, find a way to be over-the-top in love with Jesus this week.

[32] And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” [33] And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. [34] And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” [35] And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were pos-sible, the hour might pass from him. [36] And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” [37] And he came and found them sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? [38] Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” [39] And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. [40] And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. [41] And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. [42] Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.”


2 Have you ever had your soul troubled that you needed other people to pray for you (v. 34)? When was this time? What would be an example of this?

3 Jesus prays not only for what He wants, but also for God’s will (v. 36). How can you pray both for (1) what you want, and (2) God’s will?

4 What does it mean that the “spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (v. 38)? How often ought we to be found praying, but instead we are asleep (v. 37, 40, 41)?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: As we look forward to Easter in a few weeks, we’ll read

through Luke in April. Write down what you learn about Jesus.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Oh the Deep Deep Love,” which talks about Jesus’ amazing love for us—demonstrated from the garden to the cross.

3 In life: Get three friends together and ask them to pray for you for something in your life that you really need help with. Maybe it’s a sin struggle or person-al challenge, but have them pray for you.

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JESUS DIES ON THE CROSSAPRIL 5, 2017 — MATTHEW 27:24-54

JESUS DIES ON THE CROSSAPRIL 5, 2017 — MATTHEW 27:24-54

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[24] So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man's blood; see to it yourselves.” [25] And all the people answered, “His blood be on us and on our children!” [26] Then he released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified. [27] Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the governor's headquarters, and they gathered the whole battalion before him. [28] And they stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, [29] and twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on his head and put a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him, they mocked him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” [30] And they spit on him and took the reed and struck him on the head. [31] And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the robe and put his own clothes on him and led him away to crucify him. [32] As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry his cross. [33] And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull), [34] they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall, but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. [35] And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots. [36] Then they sat down and kept watch over him there. [37] And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” [38] Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left. [39] And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads [40] and saying, “You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” [41] So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying, [42] “He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. [43] He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” [44] And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way. [45] Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. [46] And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” [47] And some of the bystanders, hearing it, said, “This man is calling Elijah.” [48] And one of them at once ran and took a sponge, filled it with sour wine, and put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink. [49] But the others said, “Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to save him.” [50] And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. [51] And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split. [52] The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, [53] and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. [54] When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe and said, “Truly this was the Son of God!”


2 In what ways was Jesus mistreated in this narrative? How was He wounded for our sin?

3 What changed at the sixth hour (12pm) (v.45-46)? How is this worse than all the human torture Jesus has received up to this point?

4 What is the significance of the curtain tearing (v. 51)? The earthquake (v. 51)? The dead walking around the city for the day (v. 52-53)? What was the reac-tion of the centurion (v. 54)? What should our reaction be?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Reflect on Jesus’ work by reading Luke 5-12 this week.

2 In worship: Worship with: “Rock of Ages” by David Crowder, which talks about Jesus’ work on the cross being the double cure.

3 In life: Memorize 1 Peter 2.24: “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”

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JESUS RISES FROM THE DEADAPRIL 12, 2017 — LUKE 24:1-12

JESUS REVEALS HIMSELF TO OTHERSAPRIL 19, 2017 — LUKE 24:13-35

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[24:1] But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. [2] And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, [3] but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. [4] While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. [5] And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? [6] He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, [7] that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” [8] And they remembered his words, [9] and returning from the tomb they told all these things to the elev-en and to all the rest. [10] Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told these things to the apostles, [11] but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. [12] But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home marveling at what had happened.


2 Why is it so important that Jesus actually rose from the dead? Meaning, why couldn’t Jesus just have died on the cross, why did He need to rise?

3 Why is it important that the Bible gives us eyewitness testimony to Jesus’ resurrection? Why is it so important to have witnesses who visited the tomb?

4 If the disciples didn’t believe the women—and they could go see the tomb, how hard will it be for people today to believe Jesus is alive (v. 10-12)? How much of salvation, then, is a miracle from God, not a decision of our will?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: The Bible reading plan this week is in the middle of Luke,

examining Jesus’ claims and teaching.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Forever” by Kari Jobe, which celebrates the resurrection.

3 In life: Do some Bible study this week. How many people saw Jesus after the resurrection? How many times? What does this prove? Search the Bible and find see.

[13] That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, [14] and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. [15] While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. [16] But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. [17] And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. [18] Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” [19] And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, [20] and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. [21] But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. [22] Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning, [23] and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. [24] Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.” [25] And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! [26] Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” [27] And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. [28] So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, [29] but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. [30] When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. [31] And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. [32] They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” [33] And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gath-ered together, [34] saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” [35] Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.


2 How does all Scripture point to Jesus (v. 27)? Can you give some examples?

3 Have you ever experience your heart burning because of Jesus (v. 32)? When?

Challenge One AnotherHow is your time in God’s Word? What about prayer? How connected are you to fellow-ship at RBC? Are you in any sin? To whom are you reaching out?

For This Week 1 I n God’s Word: Catch up on any missed readings in Luke (or read somewhere else) and

be ready to start John on Monday.

2 In worship: Worship with: “In Christ Alone,” which rejoices in the Gospel.

3 In life: Ask for God to help your heart burn with passion and love for Jesus.

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JESUS RESTORES THOMAS & PETERMAY 3, 2017 — JOHN 200:24-29; 21:15-19

JESUS IS WORTHY OF ALL WORSHIPMAY 10, 2017 — REVELATION 1:4-18

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[24] Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. [25] So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.” [26] Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” [27] Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” [28] Thomas an-swered him, “My Lord and my God!” [29] Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” [21.15] When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” [16] He said to him a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” [17] He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” and he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. [18] Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go.” [19] (This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, “Follow me.”


2 Thomas doubts the resurrection, yet Jesus proves it to him (v. 28). But, who gets the greater blessing for believing in Jesus (v. 29)?

3 Peter denied Jesus three times before the cross, now Jesus restores Him with three calls to “feed My sheep.” What does Peter do in Acts to obey this? How can you care for and love others, as Jesus asked Peter to do?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Read John 3-10 this week and notice the different people

Jesus interacts with—and their response to the Gospel.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Christ Is Risen” by Matt Maher, which talks about the transformed life of those who believe the resurrection.

3 In life: Practically, how do you care for someone else spiritually? That’s what Jesus tells Peter to do. Brainstorm how you can do that in your small group.

[4] John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, [5] and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood [6] and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. [7] Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen. [8] “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” [9] I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. [10] I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet [11] saying, “Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea.” [12] Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, [13] and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. [14] The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, [15] his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. [16] In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength. [17] When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, [18] and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.


2 How is Jesus described in this scene? What creatures are worshipping Him?

3 Why does this chapter say that Jesus is worthy to be worshipped?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: John 10-17 includes a big chunk of Jesus’ teaching on the Holy

Spirit, heaven, dealing with suffering, and life after death.

2 In worship: Worship with: “Revelation Song” by Kari Jobe, based on these verses.

3 In life: Take 3 minutes each day this week to meditate on this scene in heaven.

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JESUS IS THE CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONSMAY 17, 2017 — REVELATION 20:11-21

JESUS' MISSION TO US: MAKE DISCIPLESMAY 24, 2017 — MATTHEW 28:16-20

[11] Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. [12] His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. [13] He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. [14] And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. [15] From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. [16] On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords. [17] Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, “Come, gather for the great supper of God, [18] to eat the flesh of kings, the flesh of captains, the flesh of mighty men, the flesh of horses and their riders, and the flesh of all men, both free and slave, both small and great.” [19] And I saw the beast and the kings of the earth with their armies gathered to make war against him who was sitting on the horse and against his army. [20] And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. [21] And the rest were slain by the sword that came from the mouth of him who was sitting on the horse, and all the birds were gorged with their flesh.


2 Does this section make Jesus seem un-Christlike? How is Jesus described in these verses?

3 How does God’s wrath and His triumph over enemies fit with the rest of His character? Meaning, if God is holy and just and right, why must He defeat evil?

4 We root for winners.. We celebrate champions. We want to be on the winning side. How does knowing the end (that Jesus will win) help us live in the present?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Read the last chapters of John and note why John wrote the book:

so that you would believe and have life in Him.

2 In worship: Worship with: “Forever Reign” by Kristian Stanfill, which celebrates what who Jesus is and what He has done.

3 In life: If you could travel to this scene (Revelation 20) in the future, what would you tell your present-day self? What would you value? What would you change?

[16] Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. [17] And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. [18] And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”


2 What does it mean to make disciples (v. 19)? Why is this Jesus mission to all His followers—including us?

3 Rate yourself, 1-10, in how you are doing at making disciples. Then rate the youth group. Then rate RBC. Compare your answers to other answers in your small group.

4 A part of making disciples is teaching others to obey Jesus (v. 20)—what are the top three commands that you would say teenagers today have difficulty following?

5 What help is the last sentence in v. 20 to us in making disciples?


For This Week 1 In God’s Word: Summer training starts up next week—you’ve got an open

week to catch up on John readings or go back through the Gospels and see what God has taught you this last year.

2 In worship: Worship with the song: “Let Your Kingdom Come” by Sovereign Grace, which looks forward to the return of Jesus and His rule.

3 In life: Are you doing the summer training? What will you do this summer to boost your spiritual walk?

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