2-2-8-Counseling Issues

2-2-8-Counseling Issues

The Parable of the Weeds Explained

Read Matthew 13:36-43

At the end of the world, angels will separate the evil from the good.  There are true and false believers in churches today, but we should be cautious in our judgments because only Christ is qualified to make the final separation.  If you start judging, you may damage some of the good "plants."  It's more important to judge our own response to God then to analyze others' responses.

Jesus often uses these terms to refer to the coming judgment.  The weeping indicates sorrow or remorse, and gnashing of teeth shows extreme anxiety or pain.  Those who say they don't care what happens to them after they die don't realize what they are saying.  They will be punished for living in selfishness and indifference to God.

Those who receive God's favor stand in bright contrast to those who receive his judgment.  A similar illustration is used in Daniel 12:3.

Application:

The righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father.... Matthew 13:43

Some people have a special shining, that changes people when they enter a room.  They have a spirit that brings peace.  They have an awareness of God's presence in their own lives that brings peace to everyone around them.

Ask Him to use you to help someone, relive someone's burdens, make God's ever-present Spirit real in someone's life.

Lord, help me to be filled with Your peace and show Your love and concern to people I make contact with.

Jesus tells the parable of hidden treasure

Read Matthew 13:44

The kingdom of heaven is more valuable than anything else we can have, and a person must be willing to give up everything to obtain it.  The man who discovered the treasure in the field stumbled upon it by accident but knew it's value when he found it.

[A man] sold all he had and bought that field. Matthew 13:44

Remember how pleased you felt when you got a terrific buy at a flea market? Then you know how excited this man got as he happened upon a valuable treasure. This man secretly secured the object by selling everything he owned in order to have enough purchase money. This man is not risking or sacrificing anything, for he knows that the intrinsic value of the object far surpasses his total wealth. Having bought the desired object with all his money, this man goes home rejoicing.

Jesus is our treasure. The only Son of God the Father, He willingly took on our nature, lived among us, suffered and died on the cross in our place, and - His work accomplished - rose from the dead and ascended to the Father in glory. Because of Jesus, we are no longer God’s fallen creatures but His adopted children and heirs of His kingdom. We know that salvation in Christ is a gift and cannot be bought at any price. But in our pleasure over possessing that gift, we offer our whole heart to the Giver.

Dearest Jesus, I rejoice in You as my priceless treasure. In Your name I pray. Amen.

Compared to the man and the merchant, how valuable is the kingdom to you and why: (a) It's worth more than anything else?  (b) I think I'd miss too many of the other things?  (c) I'm not ready to carry all this so far?  What does it mean to "sell everything" for the Kingdom?

Jesus tells the parable of the pearl merchant.

Read Matthew 13: 45, 46

The merchant was earnestly searching for the pearl of great value and, when he found it, he sold everything he had to purchase it.

Application:

Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. - Matthew 13:46

Make pearls, by spending time with kids.

Father, use my time, provide the words to turn Your children into pearls.

Jesus tells the parable of the fishing net.

Read Matthew 13:47-52

The parable of the fishing net has the same meaning as the same meaning as the parable of the wheat and weeds.  We are to obey God and tell others about his grace and goodness, but we cannot dictate who is part of the kingdom of heaven and who is not.  This sorting will be done at the last judgment by those infinitely more qualified than we.

Anyone who understands God's real purpose in the law as revealed in the Old Testament has a real treasure.  The Old Testament points the way to Jesus, the messiah.  Jesus always upheld its authority and relevance.  But there is a double benefit to those who understand Jesus' teaching about the kingdom of heaven.

This was a new treasure that Jesus was revealing.  Both the old and new teaching give practical guidelines for faith and for living in the world.  The religious leaders, however, were trapped in the old and blind to the new.  They were looking for a future kingdom preceded by judgment.  Jesus, however, taught that the Kingdom was NOW and the judgment was future.  The religious leaders were looking for a physical and temporal kingdom (via military rebellion and physical rule), but they were blind to the spiritual significance of the Kingdom that Christ brought.

The kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. Matthew 13:47

The Christian church in many ways is like a net moving through a lake, catching all sorts of marine animals and inanimate objects. The church sweeps across the world to take in people of every kind who profess Jesus as their Savior and Lord, baptizing them in His name. After hauling in the filled net, the fishermen sort the catch and save only the fish that are good for their trade.

When the appointed time comes, Jesus will return with angels and separate the true believers from those who, under cover of a pretense, knowingly and repeatedly refused His salvation won on the cross. The believers will be saved; the imposters will not.

If the church is like a net, then we live in the dragging time, when the church proclaims the Gospel and brings many into the faith community. We participate in this great gathering movement when we speak of Jesus to someone who does not yet know Him. We welcome newcomers to the church, encourage them to study God’s Word and come to Christ’s Table, and we pray for their faith to mature. We eagerly look forward to His coming in glory to claim us as His own.

I am one of Your little fish, dear Jesus. Thank You for catching me in Your net of grace. Amen.

What does the parable of the net teach about the value of the kingdom?  With what emotion and energy should it be pursued?

How does it compare with the parable of the weeds?

Who are the teachers of the old law who have been instructed in the new gospel (v. 52).

Jesus calms the storm

Read Matthew 8:23-27

This would have been a fishing boat because many of Jesus' disciples were fishermen.  Josephus, an ancient historian, wrote that there were usually more than 300 fishing boats on the Sea of Galilee at one time.  This boat was large enough to hold Jesus and his 12 disciples and was powered both by oars and sails.  During a storm, however, the sails were taken down to keep them from ripping and to make the boat easier to control.

The Sea of Galilee is an unusual body of water.  It is relatively small (13 miles long, 7 miles wide), but it is 150 feet deep, and the shoreline is 680 feet below sea level.  Sudden storms can appear over the surrounding mountains with little warning, stirring the water into violent 20 ft. waves.  The disciples had not foolishly set out in a storm.  They had been caught without warning, and their danger was great.

Although the disciples had witnessed many miracles, they panicked in this storm. as experienced sailors, they knew its danger; what they did not know was that Christ could control the forces of nature and the storms of the troubled heart.  Jesus power that calmed this storm can also help us deal with the problems we face.  Jesus is willing to help if we only ask him.  We should never discount his power even in terrible trials.

[Jesus] replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” - Matthew 8:26

Like most of us, Matthew has a story to tell about getting caught in a violent storm. He tells of huge waves crashing over a boat. He relates how Jesus, as Lord over nature, scolded the waves into submission. Just as memorable as that miracle, Matthew recalls, was the lesson in discipleship that Jesus taught him and the other discipleship that Jesus taught him and the other disciples at the height of the storm. “You of little faith,” Jesus said when in terror they cried to Him to save them from drowning. He was right there with them in the boat. Their fear revealed a lack of trust. They should have trusted Him completely.

Through Matthew’s account, Jesus tells us modern-day disciples that He will lead us safely through every severe storm of life. Such a storm could break over us while we are boating. More often it comes in the form of family trouble, a serious illness, or poverty. Jesus knows that we are imperfect disciples who trust Him, while still being afraid of going under in the storm. But Jesus invites us to follow Him, and continually in love He forgives our sins through His cross. He works greater faith in us through His Holy Spirit’s activity in the Word.

Loving Father, by the Spirit’s power, help this storm-tossed disciple to trust Jesus my Savior more and more each day. Amen.

What are the disciples feeling as this storm begins?  As it whips up?  When Jesus silences it?

What was Jesus teaching them by sleeping through the storm?  By rebuking it?

How might the disciples feel as the continue across the lake?  When they meet these men?

When circumstantial clouds darken your life do you sense the Son still shining?  Or does he seem asleep?  Why might it feel that way?

What do you learn about Jesus from these stories?  How does that relate to the times you face evil?

What "storms" or "demons" seem to much for you to handle now?

Read Mark 4:35-41

The disciples (seasoned fisherman who spent their lives fishing) panicked because the storm threatened to destroy them all, and Jesus seemed unaware and unconcerned.  Theirs was a physical storm, but storms come in other forms.  Think about the storms in your life - the situations  that cause you great anxiety.  Whatever your difficulty, hou have two options.  You can worry and assume that Jesus no longer cares, or you can resist fear, putting your trust in him.  When you feel like panicking, confess your need for God and then trust him to care for you.

The disciples lived with Jesus, but they underestimated him.  They did not see that his power applied to their very own situation.  The disciples, underestimate his power to handle crises in our lives.  The disciples did not yet know enough about Jesus.  We cannot make the same excuse.

Teacher, don’t You care if we drown? Mark 4:38

What a storm! The disciples were worried. Things weren’t going as planned! Even though they knew the sea and were experienced fishermen, they were in trouble. They couldn’t handle this storm, and their boat couldn’t weather it either. So they cried out to Jesus, who was asleep in their boat, “Teacher,, don’t You care if we drown?”

We often ask the same question when things in our life aren’t going as planned, when things in our life aren’t going as planned, when we are in trouble or feeling overwhelmed. We, too, ask, “Jesus, don’t You care?”” But He does care, and the proof of that is that He is lying with His disciples in that boat. The proof is that He is here with us. He came to us in His incarnation because He DOES care.

We may be tempted to doubt His love and concern for us, but at such times we need only look to the manger and the cross, knowing it was His choice to come and die for us. He did so because He cared. He did so out of great love. And if Jesus gave His life for us, will He not also graciously give us all things that we truly need (Romans 8:32)?

Lord, I believe; help me in my times of doubt.

Application

[Jesus] arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, peace, be still.  And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.  - Mark 4:39

When storms of life buffet you; trust your Anchor - the One Who, as William Cowper wrote, "plants his footsteps in the sea, and rides upon the storm."  He hold us secure in the palm of His hand.

What emotions did the disciples feel as this storm raged on and on?  What did they want from Jesus?  How do you picture their faces in verses 39-41?  Which would frighten you more - the storm or Jesus?

What was Jesus showing them about himself in all this?

How do you react to Jesus when he seems to be asleep in your life?

Read Luke 8:22-25

When caught in the storms of life, it is easy to  think that God has lost control and that we're at the mercy of the winds of fate.  In reality, God is sovereign.  He controls the history of the world as well as our personal destines.  Just as Jesus calmed the waves, he can calm whatever storms you may face.

What is Jesus teaching his disciples by ignoring and then rebuking the storm?

Why is Jesus upset?

What emotions hinder faith?  Accompany it?  Why?

Physical and Emotional Issues in Counseling

Professional counseling deals with physical and emotional problems.  Occasionally, Church leaders may need to deal with these types of problems.  This lesson will explain some of the different types of physical and emotional problems.  It offers practical suggestions for ministers that deal with them.  Also, you will learn how to identify severe problems.  Suicide and referrals are the final issues dealt with in this lesson.  The Church leader should know his limitations, yet be equipped to minister under God's leadership.

There are two primary benefits of this lesson for the pastor or elder.  First, practical suggestions will allow you to handle certain crisis situations.  Second, you will learn your limitations and know when to refer.  This is important.  If we try to go beyond our abilities, we may harm more than help.  In  being able to identify a severe problem, we can direct that person to the proper help.

Objectives

• Describe the two major areas in which we practice physical counseling.

• List the four areas that can prevent many physical problems.

• Discuss the issue of healing from a Biblical perspective.

• Identify the three most common emotional problems and the Biblical prescription for each.

• List the five symptoms that could point to severe emotional problems.

• List the signs of suicide and the responsibility of the counselor.

• Explain when a Church leader should make a referral.

• Define the four types of professional counselors.

Most people seek the help of pastors and Church leaders in spiritual issues.  Occasionally, however, there will also be those with physical and emotional needs.  We need to prepare to help those for whom we are responsible in the Body of Christ.

In some cases, we will be able to give counsel and minister to their needs ourselves.  In other cases, we should refer them to a professional who is competent in the area of need.  In this lesson, we will look at some physical and emotional issues in counseling.  We will also discuss how and when to make referrals in each of these areas.

Physical Issues

Our ministry to people with physical needs may be broken down into two areas: prevention and healing.  The Word of God speaks on both of these concerns.

Prevention

To minister to those with physical needs, we need to understand how God views our physical beings.  The Bible gives three very specific descriptions.  First, we are created in the image of God with a special purpose (Genesis 1:26-28).  Second when we receive Christ, we become filled with the Holy Spirit.  We become the property of Christ, releasing all claims to ourselves (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).  Third, we are to grow into a holy, living sacrifice to present to God (Romans 12:1).

Many people are experiencing physical problems either as a result of sickness or abuse of their bodies.  We must help them gain a Biblical view of their bodies.  In this way, they will learn how to prevent physical problems.  Some common causes of physical problems are diet, alcohol, drugs, exercise, personal hygiene and immunization.

Diet - The Scriptures speak about abusing your body by overeating (Proverbs 23:21; Philippians 3:19).  Medical studies have shown that being overweight can cause heart problems, high blood pressure, adult diabetes, and many other physical problems.

Not eating enough of the right foods may also lead to physical problems.  In recent years, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia have become alarmingly common among teens and young adults.

Preventing physical problems through diet includes eating nutritiously.  We must help people see the importance of eating well balanced meals for maintaining physical health.  In this way, we may help them glorify God in their bodies.

Misuse of Alcohol and Drugs - The Word of God clearly warns about the abuse of alcohol (Proverbs 23:20-35; Galatians 5:19-21).  Alcohol abuse will destroy your physical health.  It also affect your social life.  It will destroy your family, your job, and many other areas of your life.

Misuse or abuse of drugs has similar results.  This may include illegal drugs, prescription drugs, and non-prescription drugs.  We need to be familiar with signs of drug abuse or dependency.  We must recommend help for people with this problem.

Prevention would include recognizing the early warning signals before an addiction takes place.  If they already have an addiction, we should make every effort to help them find professional help.  There are many excellent treatment programs and counseling in this area.  We will address this later when discussing referrals.

Exercise - Another means of preventing physical problems is regular physical exercise.  Exercise is very important to good health.  It helps control weight, increases physical stamina and mental alertness, and helps people feel good about themselves.  Remember that people over 30 years of age should consult a physician before beginning a rigorous exercise program.

Personal Hygiene and Immunization - Hygiene is important for maintaining good physical health.  We nay be able to offer our help to those who are not familiar with good practices of hygiene.  Bathing, brushing your teeth and washing your hair are very important to good health.  This is a rather sensitive topic.  We should deal with it in a non-threatening, loving way.

Immunization from communicable diseases is something most of us take for granted.  However, many immigrants do not understand immunization for preventing physical illness.  This is one area in which we need to be aware of community services and public health guidelines.  We want to be able to help those who are not aware these practices due to language and culture barriers.  You can have a ministry to refugees or the economically and socially disadvantages by helping them prevent poor physical health.

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is true!  Knowing how to help others gently is important in this area.  We can then glorify God in our physical bodies.

Healing

In spite of preventive measures, people do get sick.  Disease and illness are a result of the fall of man (Genesis 3:16-19; Romans 8:22-23).  Sin has contaminated our world and released the destructive forces of sickness and death.  All people have accidents, contract diseases, and become ill.

We must prepare to teach them about divine healing as well as modern medicine when these happen.  We certainly do not want to discourage people from seeking available medical care for physical illness.  We must also be very careful not to push our own beliefs concerning healing onto another in any situation.

The Scriptures do teach about divine healing (James 5:14-15).  There are many occasions recorded in the Bible where God restored the sick (Matthew 8:14-17).  Yet, God also chose not to heal some (2 Corinthians 12:8-9).  We cannot promise God's healing to those who have physical problems.  We can, however, promise that God will be with them in whatever they face (Hebrews 13:5b).

We must now make an important distinction between divine healing and "faith healing."  Faith healers emphasize the one desiring healing.  In divine healing, the emphasis is on the One who heals, God Almighty.  Therefore, physical healing depends on God, not on how much faith a person has.

God may not choose to use a miracle at all.  He may choose to bring about healing through modern medicine.  One of the disciples was even a physician (Colossians 4:14).

Dr. Keith M. Bailey, in his book The Children's Bread, writes:

The Bible does not prohibit the Christian from consulting a physician or using medical means in the treatment of illness, nor does it specifically state that the use of natural means is a deterrent to faith for divine healing.  (1977:179)

Baily goes on to quote S. D. Gordon in saying, "Christ heals through means and the skilled human expert, sometimes." (1977:185).

Most persons seek the help of pastors and Church leaders in spiritual concerns.  This is not the only issue that will require your counseling services, however.  Other than spiritual needs, what two other issues does counseling involve?

Under the area of physical problems requiring counseling, there are two concerns.

To minister to those with physical problems, we must understand how God sees our physical bodies.  The Bible lists three perspectives.  List them.

There are four areas that will allow the counselor to help prevent physical problems.  What are they?

Diet is one of the ways to prevent physical problems.  Is the statements concerning diet true or false?  You can become malnourished if you do not eat enough, but eating too much is Biblical.  We are to eat, drink and be merry.

Abuse of drugs and alcohol is an alarming physical problem today.  It also affects the social life, emotional health and spiritual walk of everybody under an addiction.  Prevention includes one major factor?

Some people do not recognize exercise as a preventive measure against physical problems.  It has many positive effects on all areas of our life, however.  List the four benefits we receive from exercise, other than good health.

Many times, people lack knowledge about personal hygiene and immunization from disease.  Those with a ministry to the socially and economically disadvantaged will need to hygiene do we need to teach?

Even with preventive measures, people still get sick and have accidents.  What is the ministry we need to teach about when mishaps or disease strike?

Into what two areas is personal healing divided?

The Word of God teaches healing.  How would you describe this to someone?

Emotional Issues

In addition to spiritual and physical problems, people may need help with emotional problems.  We need to be able to discern between the moderate and severe problems.  We may be able to help the person with moderate emotional problems.  The severe and complex problems, however, will require the help of someone more qualified in this area.  We will also discuss suicide.  It is a problem which is becoming more and more prevalent in today's society.

Moderate Emotional Problems

In this section, we will discuss three common emotional problems we often see in counseling.  Of course, there are other problems which we might include in this class of emotional issues.  We will not have time nor space to consider them in this lesson.

Guilt Guilt is a common emotional problem for many  people.  There are two types of guilt, real and false.  Real guilt is the result of a spiritual problem.  It is real guilt which makes individuals aware of their need for confession and forgiveness.  God is always ready to forgive our sins (1 John 1:9).  The way to deal with real guilt is to confess our sin to God and seek His forgiveness.  often people need reassurance of God's forgiveness from Scripture.  You need to be ready to use Scripture to give them the assurance they need.

Sometimes harm or offense comes because of the sin.  In this case, they must go to the others involved.  Healing personal relationships is the first step in reconciling with God.  They must ask forgiveness and make restitution.  Both are necessary for emotional health.

Confession and forgiveness are the solution to the problem of real guilt.  However, we may also meet those who are experiencing false guilt.  False guilt is experiencing guilt over a matter where there is no wrong.  There is no intentional fault.  For example, a person may feel guilty for having run over a dog.  The person was obeying the speed limit and driving carefully.  The owner of the pet left the animal unleashed.  It darted in front of the car.  There is no reason to feel guilty.  The person who hit the animal may feel sad for the pet's owner but not guilty.  In cases like this, we must help the people see they have done no wrong.  They do not have to feel guilty.

People also experience false guilt if they are taught something is wrong when it is not.  When this happens, we need to show them what the Word of God says.

An example is the woman who feels guilty for attending Church without wearing a dress.  This lady was taught that dressing up shows respect for God.  She thought a skirt or slacks was disrespectful.  The Bible tells us the Lord does not see the way man often sees.  Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart attitude (1 Samuel 16:7).

As Christians, we may help those we counsel by pointing out the difference between real and false guilt.  We can lead them to confession and forgiveness in cases of real guilt.  We can help them find release by exposing their false guilt.

Anxiety and Worry - Anxiety and worry are two other types of emotional problems people often experience.  One must understand the difference between these two emotions and fear.  Fear is a reaction to a specific stimulus.  For example, if someone attacks me with a knife, a natural reaction is fear.  On the other hand, anxiety and worry are underlying reactions without a specific stimulus.  An anxious person may feel afraid without an immediate threat to their safety.  Anxiety is a fear without cause.

Fear is normal and healthy.  It is a reaction to anything that threatens our safety and well being.  People should be afraid of situations which could harm them physically.  It is fear that keeps us from stepping off cliffs or stepping in front of an oncoming car.

Anxiety and worry over events that may never happen and do not threaten our immediate safety are abnormal.  A person who worries needs help.  Sometimes, anxiety may become so severe that the person cannot function in the normal routines of life.  We may need to refer hese people to a counseling professional.

Mild anxiety, on the other hand, we may be able to help.  First, carefully listen to the person and ask probing questions to understand the worry.  We may help the person look at the situation realistically.  Often this helps a person to see the anxiety is without cause and brings emotional relief.

We may also show the anxious person verses from the Scriptures which comfort and strengthen their trust in God.  As we do this, we need to be careful not to offer these Scripture verses as pat answers.  The most effective means of helping the anxious person may be modeling trust in your own life.

Finally, we should pray that the Lord will help them see the situation realistically, from His perspective.  We should also pray that they would allow the Holy Spirit to control them.  This can produce the peace of God in their lives.  of course, we also need to commit their concerns to the Lord.  Our prayers may help them receive the assurance they need to cope with the situation in a productive way.

Depression. - A third common emotional problem is depression.  We may classify depression into three classes depending upon its seriousness: mild, acute, and chronic.  Acute depression is a deep or severe depression which may result in a person becoming suicidal.  Chronic depression is a long term depression that may be continuous or repetitive.  Both acute and chronic depression are serious problems.  We will discuss these later.  Persons experiencing acute depression or chronic depression need professional help.

Mild Depression is a common problem we may notice more often in those we counsel.  This kind of depression often follows a loss or a crisis in a person's life.  The death of a loved one, the loss of a job, a divorce, or a family crisis may trigger depression.  People may also experience mild depression following major surgery, childbirth, or some other physically draining experience.  With depression of this type, the person usually recovers in a short time.

Encouragement and support are important in ministering to persons experiencing mild depression.  They need reassurance.  We must help people focus on solutions rather than the problems.  They need to focus their thoughts outside themselves.

A well known psychiatrist was once asked what he would do if he felt himself becoming depressed.  He replied that he would look for someone he could help.  People experiencing depression tend to focus on themselves and their problems.  There is therapeutic value in reaching outside oneself during a time of personal need.  For example, a woman who loses her husband needs to find another widow (or person experiencing loss).  She can then mister to them rather than focusing on her own loss.

We will discuss moderate and severe emotional problems.  With which of these can a Church leader or lay counselor usually deal?

In discussing moderate emotional problems, what three areas did we cover?

Which subjects did we cover under the heading of guilt?

What type of guilt do people have when they need to make a confession and restitution?

There are basically two reasons a person may have false guilt.  name these two.

Anxiety or worry is another moderate emotional problem.  It can be moderate or disabilitating needing professional help.  How does it differ from fear?

There are three ways to deal with mild anxiety.  Fill in the blanks to complete the three steps.

1. Carefully listen and try to the person's worry.

2. Show the person to strengthen their trust in the Lord.

3. that the Lord will help the person see the situation realistically, from His perspective.

There are three classes of depression.  Some are mild enough for us to offer help.    Provide a brief description.

• Mild:

• Acute:

• Chronic:

There are basically two ways we can help the person with mild depression.  List these.

Severe Emotional Problems

Most people feel those with severe emotional problems need professional counseling.  The question we face is, "How do we recognize severe emotional problems?"  Extreme cases and truly bizarre behavior are fairly obvious.  However, many persons experiencing severe emotional problems may appear quite normal to most people.  The common symptoms of severe disorders fall into five basic areas..

Faulty Perception

A person may report feeling, hearing, or seeing objects that do not exist.  For example, a person may report hearing voices when no one is speaking.  People may also have distorted perception.  They may be hearing, seeing, or feeling to a much greater or lesser degree than a normal person.

people suffering from emotional problems may also experience disorientation.  They may not know where they are in either time or space.  They may not know where they are in either time or space.  They may not know why they are where they are.  This person is not perceiving reality.

Distorted Thinking

These persons may experience irrational fears.  For example, a person may be afraid any bridge they cross will collapse.  They may think they will get an infectious disease from anyone they touch or that all drinking water is unsanitary.

People may also experience false beliefs.  Two common beliefs are delusions of grandeur and delusions of persecution.  Delusions of grandeur occur when people believe they are someone important or famous.  They may also believe they have some power or secret.

people who suffer from delusions of persecution think others are out to get them.  They may think their pursuers are from other planets, the mafia, the CIA, Foreign spies or some other enemy force.  At times, they may even think a family member or coworker is against  them.

Obsession is another is another form of distorted thinking.  Obsessions are unpleasant thoughts or urges that recur.  For example, a person may have a constant urge to place his hand in a fire or jump from a high place.

Faulty Emotional Expression

This may take the form of not showing any emotional responses to anything.  At other times, it may take the form of exaggerated emotions.

This person may laugh uproariously at something that is only mildly humorous.  They may weep over something only mildly sad, or become extremely angry over some minor incident.  Such a person may also express inappropriate emotions.  He or she may laugh at a serious or tragic situation or become very sad in a humorous situation.

Another form of faulty emotional expression is wide mood swings over brief periods.  Acute and chronic depression involve faulty emotional expressions and are serious problems.

Unusual Activity Levels

This person is more or less active than normal.  he may be hyperactive or lethargic.  Compulsive behavior, or the same behavior expressed over and over (inappropriately), is another expression of emotional problems.

Antisocial Behavior

This would include aggressive or violent behavior.  Antisocial behavior may also include dressing in an odd fashion or acting in an unusually obnoxious manner.  (Be careful here.  many bizarre fashions are in style among otherwise normal younger people).  Other behaviors which might show problems are withdrawal or inattentiveness; tuning others out entirely.

We must give a word of caution here.

Every one of us has exhibited one or more of these behaviors from time to time.  There are times when each of us has behaved inappropriately due to physical or emotional fatigue and pressure.  We should, however, concern ourselves when there are several symptoms or the display of symptoms over an extended period.

One should also be careful not to make assumptions or draw conclusions if these symptoms appear in someone you know.  There are actual physiological causes which may cause a person to behave erratically or inappropriately.  Some chemical imbalances, hormonal disorders, and various diseases may result in some of these behaviors.

most of us realize that those with severe emotional problems need professional counseling.  The problem is being able to recognize the severe problems.  We organize the common symptoms into five groups.  List these.

Distorted thinking can reveal itself in many different ways.  What is the ways the text mentioned?

There are three ways that faulty emotional expression reveals itself.  List these three.

Lethargic, hyperactive, and compulsive are three words that describe the next symptom of severe emotional problems.

The last symptom, antisocial behavior, shows forth in two almost opposite ways.  List the two words that best describe the antisocial person.

Of course, we have all exhibited some of these at one time or another.  This does not mean that we have severe emotional problems.  Some times these symptoms may arise because of a completely different cause.  if it is not an emotional cause, what else could it be?

Suicide

Suicide has become increasingly prevalent in our society.  It is the number one cause of death among young people, ages 15 to 24.  Suicide is on the rise among preteen children as well.  There are fewer murders than suicides in America.  Recent estimates say that over 30,000 people per year commit suicide in America today.  Many experts believe the actual number of suicides is even higher.

Persons who are suicidal need help.  How do we know if a person is suicidal?  There are some symptoms common to many suicidal individuals.

Talking about committing suicide

Most of the people who succeed in committing suicide have told someone about it first.  If someone tells you they are contemplating suicide or that they are going to take their own life, take the threat seriously!  Treat such persons as if they intend to carry out their expressed intentions.  Ask them how they plan to do it.  If they have specific and realistic plans, they need immediate help.  Explain to them your concern and that you will tell their spouse, parent, child, or other responsible persons.  Many states also require you to contact the police.

References to death or not being around much longer.

Listen for such expressions.  For example, "life is not worth living any more.  I'd be better off dead.  I will not be around much longer.  I cannot hang on much longer."  Therefore, we must take these expressions in the context of the person's total life.

Putting all of one's affairs in order

Some will suddenly become concerned about preparing wills and life insurance policies or giving away personal belongings.  This may show that they are preparing for their own death.  These persons may disassociate themselves from family and friends as they contemplate suicide.

Persons in deep depression

These people face a higher risk of suicide.  Alcoholics and drug abusers are also in a high risk group for suicide.  Those who are terminally ill or suffering from extreme physical pain may also consider suicide as a relief.  We need to be sensitive to those in such situations.

If we suspect a person is considering suicide, we should ask them if they are thinking about suicide.  Again, if they say they have thought about it, we should ask them how they plan to carry out their intentions.  By asking, you may be able to intervene by getting help for them.

If you believe a person is about to try suicide and has the means to do so, do not leave them alone.  Stay with the person until you can get help.  If you receive a phone call from someone who says they are about to commit suicide, do not hang up to get help.  Keep talking with the person until someone else can get there.  If you hang up, the person may feel cut off and carry through with their plans.  Remain calm and offer the person hope.  You may talk the person out of suicide.  They would not have called if they did not want help.

The statistics show that suicide is a severe emotional problem with which we must deal.  It is epidemic in proportion.  List some of the statistics that show this to be true.

One way to help the suicidal person is to know the warning signs.  Very few people kill themselves before giving society and their loved ones many cries for help.  Most people, however, mask their cries.  List the four major warning signs.

If someone tells you they are planning on taking their life, what should we do?

Many of us joke, using references to suicide.  The problem may be that one of those people in our circle of friends may actually hide some truth behind his/her humor.  In what context must we always test these comments?

Note: Sometimes the events that adults see as trivial and unimportant are life  threatening to some.  Internally unstable people use the smallest events or feelings to justify suicide.  There have been many young people take their life for causes that faffle us.  For example, breaking up with a girlfriend or rejection by peers.  Other examples are drugs, gangs, the occult and the pressure that accompanies them.  Even the pressure placed on a youth by his parents may push a teenager over the edge.  We must be wise and perceptive, yet, be careful not to see every problem as a step to suicide.  Take some further study using books and seminars on this issue.

The third warning sign is putting ones affairs in order.  This  is actually a preparation for death.  A person in this stage is dangerously close to suicide.  For what do we need to watch? 

There are some groups of people who are under a higher risk than others.  We should be sensitive to these people.  What groups do we include here.

Making Referrals

If a person came to us with a toothache, we would not try to fill or pull the tooth.  Instead, we would send the person to a dentist.  If a person came to us with a legal problem, we would recommend they see a lawyer.  In the same way, we need to refer a person with a severe emotional problem, to a person that can help him.  This is the job for a competent professional counselor,

The big question is, "Where and how do we find a competent professional counselor?"  As Church leaders, we may be able to refer such persons to our pastors, who should know where to find appropriate help.  Pastors may refer persons to other pastors who have the special training or experience in counseling.  If we know of competent professional counselors, we may refer a person directly.

We must be aware of the professional counseling help available to us.  There are four basic types of professional counselors.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor with additional training in psychiatry.  As a medical doctor, a psychiatrist can prescribe medication and explore the chance of physical causes.

A clinical psychologist usually holds a doctorate (Ph. D.) in psychology and has served at least one year of internship in counseling.

A psychiatric social worker usually holds a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.).  This involves study in social work and psychotheraphy, along with an internship.

Marriage and family therapists have a variety of levels of training.  Most have at least a master's degree and some supervised practice in counseling.

We may also need to refer individuals to physicians, lawyers, accountants, or other professionals.  These have the expertise to help them with problems related to their fields.  It would be wise to develop a list of some competent, and hopefully Christian, persons in these professions.

We should usually refer individuals to their own physicians, lawyers, or accountants.  If they request a referral from us, suggest someone from your referral list.

We should also try to locate Christian counselors in our city or area.  If there are none, we should find secular counselors who will respect the faith of their clients.  An awareness of the social agencies and other resources in our communities may be helpful for referrals.  It is wise to develop a network of professionals and agencies before the need for such services arises.

When making a referral, we should respect the wishes of the other person.  We should pray with and for the person who is seeking help.  Remember, all of this must be done in the strictest of confidence.

It is not a sign of weakness or incompetency to refer a person to professionals with skills and abilities to help.  It is really just the opposite.  Our ministry as Church leaders is not all encompassing.  List some groups of people to whom we could refer others.

There are basically four different types of professional counselors. Provide a brief description.

1. Psychiatrist

2. Clinical Psychologist

3. Psychiatric Social Worker

4. Marriage & Family Therapists

Sometimes, a professional counselor can not help the person alone.  Often we must call in other professional to help with the immediate problems.  Who might these be?

In conclusion, we should hold hold three ideas as very important.  What did the last paragraph list?

Testimony

BIO:Robert Murray McCheyne 1813-1843
Robert Murray McCheyne was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, May 21,
1813. He taught himself the Greek alphabet at the age of four. He later
distinguished himself as a student of Edin- burgh University.
McCheyne became pastor of St. Peter's Church of Dundee, Scotland
(Presbyterian), in 1836, after being li- censed to preach by the
Presbytery of Annan on July 1, 1835. At age 24, he became a member of a
mission of inquiry to study the best means of evangelizing the Jews,
and visited Palestine for this purpose. While there, he became ill and
devoted much of his time to praying for his flock.
And, the famous revival in Dundee began in his church under the
ministry of William C. Burns. It continued under McCheyne. The whole
city was moved. No less than 39 prayer meetings were held weekly in
connection with this church, of which five were carried on wholly by
children.
McCheyne died of typhus March 25, 1843. He is buried in the
churchyard of St. Peter's. His monument contains the words: "...who
died in the thirtieth year of his age and the seventh of his ministry,
walking closely with God, an example of the believers in word, in
conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity, he ceased not
day and night to labor and watch for souls, and was honored by his Lord
to draw many wanderers out of darkness and to the path of life."
One of the most notable characteristics of the man was the holy
consistency of his daily walk. He has been called "one of the loveliest
specimens of the Spirit's work- manship." The secret of this was his
habitual dependence upon the Spirit of God.

2-2-7-1-Evidences of the Kingdom

2-2-7-Evidences_of_the_Kingdom.

Goals:

1. Explain the differences in the Episodes of Christ's life as they are recorded in the Synoptic Gospels, using the concepts of Contradiction and abbreviation.

2. On the basis of the student's study of the miracles in Matthew 8 and 9.  list five areas of authority in Jesus' ministry and take part in a discussion of the importance of this for the students own life and ministry.

3. Explain the importance of Matthew 9:1-8 for our understanding of the two natures of Christ.

4. Explain to someone who believes that science has proven that miracles are impossible why this is not so and give a reason why it is possible for the miracles of Jesus to take place.

With today's lesson we begin our study of the Evidence of the Kingdom.  We have given this name to chapters 8 and 9 of Matthew because the main theme of the section is .  However, as we have discovered, there is also a secondary theme which is .

We are going to study the miracle of the cleansing of the leper.

Read Matthew 8:1-4.

some one who has the dreaded disease called leprosy.  While it is practically unknown in much of the modern world, it was quite common in Jesus' day.

The various forms of leprosy are described in Leviticus 13.  Turn to this Old Testament book and read verses 2-4 of chapter 13.  Leprosy is a disease of the .

The book of Leviticus was written especially for the Old Testament priests.  They had to act as the "Health Inspectors" for God's people and so Leviticus 13 gives special instructions about leprosy.  Although modern forms of leprosy are not contagious, many of the kinds described in Leviticus could be spread to others very easily.  The priests were given instructions regarding this too.  Read Leviticus 13:44-46.  In order to keep the disease from spreading to others, a leper had to

Because leprosy was such a dangerous disease, few people wanted to come close to a leper.  The Old Testament had said that they must be isolated from the rest of the community in order to keep the disease under control.  Bu the time of Jesus, the Pharisees had made many more rules about lepers.  It is said that some of them even threw stones at lepers to make sure they kept their distance.  Others would hide themselves or run away when a leper was sighted, even if it was at a great way off.  Read Matthew 8:3.  What did Jesus do when the leper came to Him?

Jesus acted differently than the other religious teachers leprosy is an ugly, unpleasant disease which eats away at fingers, ears, toes, and even the hands and feet.  large, open sores cover the leper's body.

Although it would have been possible for Jesus to cleanse the leper from a distance, what did Jesus do which shows His special compassion for the leper?

Not only did Jesus touch the leper, but He completely cleansed him.  In this first evidence of the coming of the Kingdom of God.  Jesus healed a leper.

We should all thank the Lord that Jesus has the same compassion for those who are set as; do by human society today.  But remember the way Jesus approaches them today to bless them is through you and me!

The Centurion's Servant

Read Matthew 8:5-13.

Now compare this portion of Matthew with Luke 7:2-5 and keep your Bible open to this passage.  Here are the good qualities that the elders of the Jewish people said the centurion had.

• He cared deeply for His servant.

• He loved the Jewish nation.

• He had built a synagogue to praise the true God.

According to the way the Jewish people saw things, they told Jesus that the centurion to have Jesus do as he asked (see Luke 7:4).

But what did the centurion say about himself?  Read Matthew 8:8.  "I do to have you come under my roof."

Others said the centurion was deserving.  He himself said he was not deserving.  What quality of the centurion's character did the Jewish leaders over look?

What kind of work did a centurion do?

The word Centurion comes from the same root as the word Century does.  A Century is 100 years.  How many soldiers were under the Centurion's command?

What kind of rank did a centurion have in the Roman army?

Read Matthew 8:9.  When a centurion gave a command to his soldiers, did they always obey?

Christ offered to come to the centurion's house to heal his servant.  However, the centurion replied: "I do not deserve...."  He then drew a comparison between himself and Christ.  The comparison has do do with Jesus' authority and His ability to command just as the centurion commanded his soldiers.  What did the centurion want Jesus to command?

The centurion compared his own authority as an army officer with the authority of Jesus over his servant's sickness.  When the centurion gave an order it was always obeyed.  He also expected Jesus' command to be obeyed in the same way.

1. The centurion knew that when Christ gave the order, what would happen to his servant?

2. Did the centurion believe that Christ could heal his servant or not?

It was because of this that Jesus said in verse 10 that He had not found anyone in the whole of Israel who had so much at the Roman centurion.

1. When the centurion said that he was not qualified for Jesus to come into his house, quality did he show?

2. When he said that he, too, was a man under authority, what quality did he show?

Christ said that the centurion had notable faith.  Read Matthew 8:8 and then mark the two things that the centurion believed about the power of Christ to heal.  The centurion believed that Jesus could heal:

• at a distance

• with just a word.

Read Matthew 8:10-12.

1. What did Jesus say would happen to many "Subjects of the Kingdom"  (that is, the Jews) because they would not believe in Him?  They will be

2. What did Jesus say was going to happen to many "from the east and the west," (that is, Gentiles like the centurion) who did believe in Jesus Christ?  They will

3. What did happen to the centurion's servant?

Peter's Mother-in-law

Read Matthew 8:14-17

These verses tell about the healing of a woman who had a fever.  The woman was a relative of one of Jesus' disciples.  Which disciple was she related to?

In what way was the sick woman related to Jesus' disciple?

Since Peter is said to have a mother-in-law, it is only logical than that he was:

Look up each of the following Bible references: Acts 21:8-9, 1 Corinthians 9:5; 1 Timothy 3:2, 12.

Of course, we cannot say that Christian ministers must marry either!  There are some advantages to being a single minister, just as there are some advantages to being a married minister.  On the basis of the teaching of the Bible we can neither forbids marriage nor require marriage:

Married:

• He knows from his own experiences the problems which face families today.

• He has less danger of temptation in his dealings with women.

• He has the understanding and support of a family in difficult times.

Single:

• He can live in less comfortable circumstances if necessary.

• He doesn't have to take time to take care of the needs of a wife and children.

Let's look at the story a little closer to see what did take place.

1. What was Peter's mother-in-law's condition before Jesus touched her?

2. What happened when Jesus touched her?

3. What did Peter's mother-in-law do then?

Turn to Luke 4 and read verse 39.

When did she serve Jesus and His disciples?

How can we apply this to our life:

1. "Pastor, I gave my life to Christ tonight.  Is there something i can do the help?"

2. "Let's see, how can I use the things I have learned in this lesson on the way to my class meeting?"

How can we summarize this: that we should the Lord as soon as .

Matthew 8:14-16 seems to indicate that Jesus stayed in Peter's home for a time, casting out demons and healing those who are sick.

1. Read verse 17 carefully.  The cleansing of the leper, the healing of the centurion's servant, and the healing of Peter's mother-in-law, along with all of the others who were brought to Jesus, was the fulfillment of what prophecy?  "He took up our and carried our ."

2. What is the Old Testament reference for this prophecy?

Exercise: Underline Matthew 8:17 and Isaiah 53:4 in red in your Bible.  Place a red "F" in the margin beside the verse in Matthew.

Calming the Storm

We are now studying the Evidence of the Kingdom.  Matthew 8 and 9 tell us about a series of miracles Jesus did which could only be done by the power of God.  In fact, the healings Jesus performed were in fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecy which is found in

Like the Roman centurion, we know that these miracles show us the of Jesus over disease and sickness.

Verses 18-22 deal with the secondary theme of Matthew 8 and 9 so we will study them at a latter time.  Read Matthew 8:23-27 now.

1. What was Jesus doing during the storm?

2. What did He say when the disciples awakened him?

3. Then what did He do?

Compare Matthew 8:26 with verse 10 of that same chapter.

1. The Roman centurion had believed that Jesus had authority over

2. The disciples, however, did not believe that Jesus had authority over

According to verse 27, what did the disciples say to each other after Jesus calmed the sea?

Demon-possessed Men of Gadara

Read Matthew 8:28-34.  It is the story of the Gadarene demoniac.

Here in Matthew; it says that Jesus healed TWO demon-possessed men near Gadara.  But mark says that there was only one.  There is an explanation and we will look at it as we study the miracle.

A contradiction is a statement which is just the opposite of something that has already been said.

There is an important difference between a Contradiction and an Abbreviation.  When we abbreviate a word we shorten it so that it is easier to write (e.g. Television = T.V.).

Abbreviations like this one are common in the Synoptic Gospels.  Compare the accounts of this episode (the Gadarene demoniacs) in the Synoptics.  Which of the Gospels, Matthew or Mark, abbreviates the account of the Gadarene demoniac by drawing attention to just One of the demon-possessed men?

Another example of abbreviation in the Synoptics can be seen in the accounts of the healing of the centurions servant which we have already studied.  In this case, it is Matthew rather than mark that makes an abbreviation.  Matthew's account sounds as if the centurion himself came to Jesus.  However, Luke gives us more details.  According to Luke's Gospel, how did the centurion ask Jesus to heal his servant?

Use your own words to explain how you would answer someone who said that there were contradictions in the stories about Jesus life.

We have already seen that Mark abbreviates the account of the Gadarene demoniacs in order to draw our attention to One of the demon-possessed men.  We are going to study this episode from the Gospel according to Mark.

According to Mark 5:15 and 5:18-20, what was the demon-possessed man life after his encounter with Jesus? 

• Well

• He wanted to follow Christ

• He was ready to testify for Christ

One would think that everyone would have been happy when a man who had been so afflicted and tortured was healed, wouldn't you?  But according to mark 5:17, what did the people of the area want when they found out about the miracle?

Why did Jesus want to leave?  He had just done a spectacular miracle - two demon-possessed men were set free.  They would no longer be a bother to the community.  Read Luke 8:35 and 37.  What was the reaction of the people when they discovered what had happened?

It is clear that the motive for asking Jesus to leave was fear.  Two thousand pigs had just been lost-quite a financial loss.  Demons had been cast out - quite a display of power and authority!

Here are some people like the people of Gadara:

1. "I'm not going to accept Christ because I would have to leave my job as a bartender."

2. "I don't want to be a Christian because I don't like all that business of praying for the sick and casting out of demons."

3. "I don't want to be a Christian.  All they ever do in church is take offerings and ask for money for something or another."

4. "I can't really live the Christian life.  A person just can't be honest and stay alive in this business."

5. "I'm not going to accept Christ as my Savior.  God is so holy and pure and just look at me.  I will never be acceptable to Him."

This episode leaves us with many unanswered questions.  For instance:

• Why did the demons want to enter the pigs?

• Why did they destroy the pigs as soon as they entered them?

• Why did Jesus allow this?

The Bible doesn't explain this.  However, there seem to be two possible answers:

1. To protect the demon possessed men.  Mark 9:26 shows that it is possible for a demon to do physical harm to a human being.  In Mark 9 only one demon is involved.  If it could do this much harm, how much more could the "legion" of demons in the Gadarenes do?  Perhaps the pigs became "spiritual lightening rods" to absorb the power of the demons and protect the men.

2. To assure the demon possessed men and the others who were there that the demons did actually come out of the men.  They could all see what happened to the pigs.

Take a moment now to thank him for his miraculous power.  He is just the same today as he was back then.

The Paralytic

Read Matthew 9:1-8.

As was true in the episode of the Gadarene demoniacs, Matthew does not tell as many details as do the other Synoptics about the healing of the Paralytic.  For this reason, we will be studying the story of the Miracle in the Gospel of Mark,  Read Mark 2:1-4.

1. How many friends carried the paralytic to Jesus?

2. Why couldn't they get through the door?

3. What did they do to solve the problem?

It was possible for the men to make a hole in the roof because of the way in which the houses were built in Palestine.  The roof was usually flat.  A ladder or staircase ran up the outside of the house, allowing people to make use of the flat roof for storage and other purposes.

Why did the four men go to so much trouble to see Jesus?

Read Mark 2:5.  What did Jesus say to the paralytic?  "Son, your are ."

Jesus had a special purpose for dealing with the paralytic in this way.  Here we are given another evidence of the kingdom.  It is not that Jesus overlooked the man's serious physical problems, but rather than there was something He felt was more important.  Because Jesus saw that these men had faith, what did he do?

Following Christ's example then, we should deal First with; People who are for from God because of their sins.

Perhaps we should look at Mark 2:11 now.  Did Jesus heal the paralytic?

It is important to notice this fact since it is possible for someone to think that the physical needs of people are not important.  But, Jesus was concerned about the many physical problems of men as the healings we have already studied prove.  We should also be doing what we can to solve the many problems of health and sanitation in our communities.  however, we must never forget that the most important problem men and women face is the spiritual problem of .  It is the cause of many other problems people have today.

Jesus' actions didn't go unnoticed.  Read Mark 2:6-7.

1. Who criticized Jesus for saying that the paralytic had been forgiven of his sins?

2. According to them (Mark 2:7), who is the only one who can forgive sin?

They were absolutely right about this!  The Bible, Jewish religion, and the teaching of Christianity are all in agreement here.  Jesus Himself did not argue about their point.  This is the most important evidence of the kingdom.  Jesus agreed with the teacher of the law that only God could forgive man's sin.  Never-the-less, Jesus said this: "Son your sins are forgiven."  In other words, Jesus said, "I forgive you of your sins!"  When Jesus said this it was the same as saying "I, Jesus, am ."

That is a rather amazing claim for any man to make!  The teachers of the lawfully understood what Jesus was saying, too!  Read verse 1 again.  What did the teachers of the law accuse Him of doing? God.

A person is blaspheming when he talks about God with disrespect.  Since we know that only God can forgive man's sins, it is obviously disrespectful to claim that power for oneself.  This was what Jesus was doing; He was claiming the power to forgive sin.  The teachers of the law did not believe Him and so they called Him a blasphemer.  Read Mark 2:10-12 carefully.  The teachers of the Law were wrong and Jesus was right!  He is God and He was not blaspheming.

Mark 2:10 and 11 clearly state the proof Jesus gave for saying that He had forgiven the sins of the paralyzed man.  What proof did Jesus give that He had authority to forgive sins?

What does this tell us about Jesus' nature?  That He is truly

The Woman Who Touched Jesus

Read Matthew 9:18-26.

These verses tell us about two miracles.  We are going to deal with them one at a time, looking first at the Woman who touched Jesus' cloak.

he technique of comparison to get more details from the other gospels.  Begin by reading Mark 5:30 and 31.

1. What did Jesus ask?  "Who My ."

2. But, what did His disciples answer Him?  "You see the people against you, and yet you can ask, 'Who touched Me?'"

Crowds of people often followed Jesus wherever He went.  Un-doubtedly the sight if a synagogue official (see Mark 5:22) falling down on the ground at Jesus' feet brought even more people to Him.  According to the Bible, there were so many people that they were "crowding against" Jesus.  Many people must have brushed up against Him and touched Him as the people tried to get a closer look.  Did these people receive any special benefit from touching Jesus?

This one woman did receive a great deal by just touching Jesus' garment. Read Mark 5:34.  What was the difference between the woman and the others who touched Jesus?  This woman had

Compare this verse (verse 34) with Mark 2:5.  In both cases Jesus noted that the people came to Him in .

There are many people today who came close to Jesus and "touch" Him without any change in their lives.  They go to church on Sunday morning, listen to a Bible message on the radio, read a tract or listen to a friend tell about the difference Jesus has made in their lives without ever getting any benefit from their contact with Christ.

This woman had something these people needed.  What is necessary if we are to receive the blessings Christ wants to give to us?

Knowing that she had been healed, the woman was going to leave.  However, Jesus was no going to leave the matter at that.  According to verses 33 and 34, what did He require her to do?

Here is a simple lesson for all of us.  We have received many blessings from the Lord.  What does the Lord want from us in return?  It is the same thing He wanted from the woman who touched His cloak.

Now let's take a look at the other miracle in this passage from 9:18-26.  We are going to compare the episode in all three of the synoptic gospels so you may want to mark the places with strips of paper so you don't lose them.  You can find the episode with the help of your crosss references.

Were you able to find all three of the passages and mark them?  Good!  Let's Go On.  Read each of the accounts carefully.

Jairus Daughter

There are some differences between the three accounts of the healing of Jairus daughter.  The three gospels seem to give three different answers to the question.  When was Jesus told that the Girl had died?

1. Which gospel gives the impression that Jesus was told when Jairus' first came to him?

2. Which gospel gives the impression that Jesus was told after He began to go to Jairus house (and after the interruption from the woman who touched His garments)?

Is this a real contradiction?  Well, since you remember what we studied in our lesson, you know that the reason for this apparent contradiction is that the one author made a (an) in the account. which writer was this?

Only 6 verses in Matthew's book have been given to this episode while both Mark and Luke have more than double that number.  So then, we can take our detailed account from Mark and Luke.  This means that the news of the girl's death came to Jesus. 

When Jesus arrived at the house, what did He tell the family?  That the girl was simply

What a strange thing to say in light of the fact that they had just told Him the girl was dead!  Why do you suppose Jesus said this?  Let's use the technique of comparison again to find out.  There is a similar case in the Gospel of John, chapter 11.  It will help us understand what Jesus meant by His talent.

1. Read John 11:11.  What does Jesus say about Lazarus?

2. In John 11:13-14, Jesus explains that Lazarus was really?

3. And, in a little while (John 11:43-44), what did Jesus do?

In the case of  Lazarus, when Jesus said that he was a sleep, what He really meant was: "Lazarus is dead, but only for a little while.  Then, I'm going to bring him back to life."  Since Jesus uses the same words in the story of Jairus' daughter, we can assume that He meant the same thing.  Jesus said: "She sleeps" although she war really just as the family had said, because he was going to

According to Mark 5:43, what instructions did Jesus give to the family  after He had raised the girl from the dead?

1. They were given orders not to

2. They were to give the girl something to

Why did Jesus tell them to give the girl something to eat?

• The girl would be hungry after such a serious illness.

• The parents may have forgotten this in their excitement.

• Jesus had done the miracle by the power of God, but her parents were capable of giving her something to eat.

Two Blind Men

Read Matthew 9:27-31

What did the two blind men call Jesus? "Son of ".

Read Luke 20:41 and by using the technique of comparison answer the following questions.

1. Luke 20:41 shows us that it was common among the Jews of Jesus' day to call the , "the Son of David".

2. The word in Hebrew which means the something is the word

3. In English, the title means

In fulfillment of this promise, Jesus was born in the city of Bethlehem which is the City of .

When these two blind men called Jesus "the Son of David", what were they really saying: That Jesus was born in Bethlehem, and He was the Messiah who was to come.

The Dumb Man

There is one last miracle which is recorded in Matthew 9:32-34.  Compare these verses with Matthew 12:22-24.

1. What caused the one man to be dumb (unable to speak) and the other to be deaf and blind?

2. In both cases, the Pharisees said the same thing about Jesus.  What did they say?

This was certainly a serious charge against Jesus!  However, we are not going to study it further just yet.  We will look into the matter again when we study the opposition of the religious leaders to Jesus.

We have looked at many different miracles Jesus did.  I hope that this study will make your faith stronger for Jesus is still the same and He will still do great things for his own.

BUT, there are people who don't believe that Jesus ever did these things: they say that modern science has proven that such things cannot happen.  In our next lesson we are going to look more closely at this objection to the miracles in the Bible.

Testimony

BIO:Alva J. McClain 1888-1968
Alva J. McClain, the founder and first president of Grace
Theological Seminary and Grace College, was born in Iowa and later grew
up in Sunnyside, Washington. Shortly after his marriage to Josephine
Gingrich in 1911, he and his wife were saved under the preaching of Dr.
L.S. Bauman. He had been at- tending the University of Washington, but
removed to Los An- geles, where he attended the Bible Institute of Los
Angeles and sat under the teaching of Dr. R.A. Torrey.
Upon graduating from Biola, he enrolled in Xenia Theological
Seminary and completed work for the B.D. and Th.M. degrees--following
which he was called to the First Brethren Church of Philadelphia, where
he served from 1918 to 1923. During the pastorate he taught at the
Philadelphia School of the Bible. Because of ill health, he resigned
and removed to California, where he finished his work for the A.B.
degree at Occidental College, graduating as valedictor- ian. Later he
was awarded the honorary degree of LL.D. at Bob Jones University, and
the D.D. degree at the Bible Institute of Los Angeles.
In 1925 and 1926, he served as professor of Bible at Ashland
College. In 1927-1929 he taught Christian theology at the Bible
Institute of Los Angeles. In 1930, the first gradu- ate school of
theology in the Brethren Church was organized at Ashland College under
his leadership, where he served as its first academic dean and
professor of Christian theology.
In 1937 Grace Theological Seminary was organized un- der his
direction, and as first president and professor of Christian theology,
he served from 1937 to 1962.
Dr. McClain authored many short treatises, but will be remembered
for his monumental work on Christian theology, The Greatness of the
Kingdom, one of seven volumes he had projected concerning the entire
scope of Christian faith. He will long be remembered as scholar,
theologian, educator, master teacher, and Christian gentleman.

2-2-6-1-Sermons

2-2-6-Sermons

Goals

1. Identify the three main parts of a good Bible message, place them in the order in which they are used in a Bible message, and explain the purpose of each part.

2. Prepare a simple Bible message based upon the gospel of Matthew.

3. Explain the concept of synthesis and compare it to analysis.

4. List the four basic steps to a home Bible study and prepare a Bible Study of your own when given a pass age from the gospel of Matthew.

5. Take part in a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of Home Bible Studies.

How to Prepare a Sermon

We have been studying the Sermon on the Mount.  It was preached by the best preacher in the world.  Oh, how people loved to listen to Jesus!  It is a challenge for us to follow His example, isn't it?  You will have your first lesson on preparing a simple Bible message.

Look up Luke 24 and keep your Bible open.

When the risen Christ walked with the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, He explained to them what was written about Him in the (verses 27)

After Jesus disappeared from their sight, these two disciples said (verse 32), "Were not our hearts burning within us while He talked with us on the road and opened the to us?"

Again in verse 45, the text says that Jesus helped His disciples under stand the .

What does this tell us about our own preaching and teaching?  That we should base our preaching upon the .

Of course, we know that it is a good idea to use symbols, illustrations, and examples from daily life.  Experiences from the lives of other Christians may also be helpful.  But , there should be used only to bring out what the Bible teaches.  They are to make the Bible teaching more clear and help others understand the message of the biblical text.

Examples or illustrations outside of the Bible should never become the main part of the sermon.  The really important thing is not the example, but the teaching of the word of God.

Although our goal is to teach what the Bible says, it is not enough to just explain what the text or Bible passage means.  This could end up only as a far off idea which has nothing to do with the real life of the people in the congregation.  Our reason for teaching the Bible is to change the lives of people (both the congregation and the preacher).

Turn to 2 Timothy 3:15-17 and read these verses.  Keep your Bible open to this place.

2 Timothy 3:15-17 talks about two ways that lives can be changed through the teaching of the Bible.  one of these is mentioned in verse 15.  That verse says that the Scriptures can make us wise for through faith in Christ.

So then, we should try to teach the Bible in such a way that the unsaved become believers in Christ and thus obtain .  On other words they will give themselves to Christ and accept Him as their personal Savior.

What is the goal of our preaching when we are speaking to the unsaved?

2 Timothy 3 describes another way that lives can be changed by biblical teaching.  Read verse 17 in the NIV and complete the following.  According to this verse, the Scripture is profitable for the man of God so that he may be for every good

In "Good News for Modern Man" translated, "thoroughly equipped " which is used in the NIV "Fully Qualified."

This second way in which lives are changed can be summarized by saying that our goal in preaching the Bible to believers is to help them grow and become mature Christians.  When we are preaching to unbelievers our goal is to bring them to

We have said that the main purpose of biblical preaching is to change the lives of the listeners.  people's lives can be changed in many ways.  For example:

• They could repent and trust Christ

• They could promise to improve their stewardship

• They could begin to testify of Christ to their neighbors

• They could begin to resist temptation

• They could quit spreading gossip and rumors about others

• They could decide to help some needy person in a very practical way

• They could begin to read the Bible more regularly

• They could begin to attend the Wednesday evening prayer meeting.

Limit your sermon to just one of the changes we want to see in peoples lives.

The main portion of the sermon ought to be concerned with the explanation of the Bible passage we have chosen.  But, if we are going to produce the changes needed in the lives of our listeners, it is also necessary to apply the teaching to them.

When we explain the passage we speak mainly about the passage and what it means.

When we apply the passage we speak mainly to the listeners and what they ought to do in light of the Bible's teaching.

The following sentences are quotes from a sermon on the temptations of Jesus.

Explanation:

• Jesus was tempted by the devil for 40 days.

• Jesus refused the temptation to use His power as God just to help Himself out of the temptation.

• The devil used part of the Word of God for his own ends.

Application:

• Sometimes we are also tempted by this same devil

• We should refuse to use the gifts which God gives to us for own purposes.

• We should be very careful so that we do not twist the Word of God to suit ourselves.

After you have successfully introduced the passage and brought the listeners attention to the message, you must then the passage and the passage.

A Bible passage must be explained first.  After this, it can be applied to life.  The whole explanation can be made first and then applied, or as was the case in the example above one can explain, apply, explain, apply, etc.  Whichever way you choose to use in your sermon it is always necessary to explain something before applying it.

It is also a good idea to add a brief introduction to the beginning of the sermon.  The introduction presents the Bible passage to the listener.  When someone stands up to preach, a fight begins in the minds of those in the congregation.  Many different things are trying to take their attention away from the sermon.

of course you want them to pay attention to what God has to say to them through the Bible passage.  To make sure that this is what they think about you must offer them something much more interesting than the many other things Satan will bring to their minds at this moment.  We know that what the Bible passage says is more important but that doesn't mean that it is also more interesting to them at the moment.  For example, if you begin by saying something like this in a very, very high sounding and serious tone of voice: "My beloved brethren, our subject for this evening is prayer, ..."  Only the very spiritual will be very interested.

But, if they don't see any need to pray, they are exactly the people whom you want to reach with your sermon.  The problem then, is how to get them interested.  That is what the introduction to the sermon is for.  It introduces the Bible passage in an interesting way in order to capture the thoughts of the listeners.  It is like a bridge to take their thoughts to the beginning of the sermon.

Here are some interesting introductions:

1. Some questions about the Bible to make people curious.

2. A story from daily life which relates to the passage you have chosen for the sermon.

3. An example of how useful the teaching of the Bible passage is going to be for the listener.

4. A contrast between what most people think and what the Bible actually says.

5. A drawing, painting, photograph or some object (like a coin, broom, rock) that will serve as a symbol of the teaching in the Bible passage.

Give one example of a interesting bridge which might be used to introduce a sermon.

Very good!  Now I want to point out to you that we have added another technique to the technique of analysis.  It is a frequent companion to it.  This new technique is called Synthesis.  Synthesis is used in the preparation of messages and Bible studies.

Analysis begins with a whole and divides it into its parts.  Synthesis begins with the parts and puts them together in a whole.

As a example, when a man and woman have a child, that child has parts from each of the parents.  This is the way it is with Synthesis.

Up to this point, we have not mentioned another important part in the preparation of a good sermon or Bible message; the need to prepare oneself to preach the sermon.  of course, we did learn how to prepare ourselves to lead in public prayer.  Similar preparation is needed to preach a Bible message.

When you prepare your messages then they ought to be something entirely new.  When you gather information to introduce the sermon, give examples from everyday life, explain, and apply the Bible passage, the message you bring is a new creation.  It has been born in prayer and from your own experiences.  Each message, prepared with prayer, and the help of the Holy Spirit, will be different from every other message, even though it might be based upon the same passage from the Bible.

Leading Small Group Studies

By this time some of you may be saying to yourself: "Thanks 'Prof.' for that good lesson an how  to preach!  I understand it just fine; Ah, there is just one thing though,  I'm not going to be doing any preaching!  No Sir, that's not for me:  My knee knock like mad, my voice completely disappears and I forget everything I planned to say.  No Way,...

I can't preach

But, you really don't have to worry.  Many people feel just the someway.  Even so, You will be able to use what you have learned in our last section to help you lead effective small group studies.  In this section we are going to learn how to do just that.

There are also advantages for those who attend the small group study.  When aa sermon is preached in church in the traditional way, it is not possible for those in the congregation to ask questions or clear up areas of misunderstanding.  Neither can they share their own doubts and troubles, or their ideas and experiences.  In a small group it is possible for everyone to take part.

Jesus often allowed people to ask questions and discuss problems while He was teaching.  Example: Matthew 16:13-16; 19:16-21; 22:16-21; 22:41-43; Luke 10:25-29; 10:36-37.

One of the reasons for having a small group study is to encourage people to study the Word of God themselves and take part in sharing what they have learned.  There are some practical things which can be done to make the Bible study a better time for everyone.  For instance, the way people are seated has a lot to do with how well they will take part in the Bible Study.  They should be seated in a circle facing in.

When people are seated this way, they usually find it much easier to talk informally.  It is possible though especially if no one in the group has been in a small group study before, for this in formal time of Bible study to become just another chance to visit with friends about all the things happening in town!  The time ought to be relaxed and friendly, but it should also be orderly:

1. Pray together and ask God to help you understand the Bible passage you will be studying.

2. Read the part of the Bible you will be studying.

3. Talk about what the Bible passage means and how it applies to you.

4. Pray about the lessons you have learned from the study together.

Every Bible study ought to begin with prayer asking the Holy Spirit to help us understand what He wants to teach us.  After prayer together, the Bible passage ought to be read aloud to the group who might have a hard time answering a question or speaking up during the discussion.

Now it is time to talk about the passage.  As the small group leader, you will have to prepare for this part of the study.

If the Bible Study leader fails to prepare for the group discussion, one of two things will almost always happen:

1. There will be a lack of order to the discussion; you will never really talk about the truth in the Bible, or

2. There will be complete silence!  No one will have anything to talk about.

so, 

Be sure to prepare.

One of the secrets for success in leading the group's discussion is to make up a list of questions ahead of time.  These questions should be designed to make people think about the Bible passage and their own lives.  They should help the group discover for themselves the teachings of the passage.

You must decide before hand what the important points are which are taught in the passage.  As an example:  Read Luke 10:30-37 to refresh your memory about this parable.

1. The Samaritan give help to someone who was in need.

2. The Samaritan gave help to someone who belonged to a people normally thought to be an enemy.

3. The example of the Samaritan's unselfish care to make sure the man was taken care of while he was gone.

Obviously, there are three important points to this story.

1. The example of the Samaritan in giving practical help.

2. The example of the Samaritan in giving help to an enemy.

3. The example of the Samaritan in giving help even though it cost him something.

The questions found below are examples of the kind of questions which can be used to bring out these three points in a small group study to help people discover these truths for themselves.

Explanation

1. What kind of relationships did the Samaritan have with the people of the wounded man?  Why?

2. Did the Samaritan feel satisfied that he was sorry for the man or did he do something to help him?

3. What kind of sacrifices did the Samaritan have to make in order to take care of the man?

Application

1. Is it enough for us to do good only for those who are our friends or relatives.

2. What will it cost us to follow the example of the Good Samaritan?

3. Is it enough for us just to feel sorry for people who are in trouble?  What else does Christ ask of us?

The questions which are the easiest to answer are those which can be answered by the text of the Bible itself (questions on observation (to observe).

Not everyone who comes to the small groups study will have the same ability to answer questions, but every effort should be made to get everyone to take part, even the most shy person there.  The easiest questions can be asked of those who are uneasy about talking in front of others, or of newcomers to the group.  Leave the harder questions for those who have more experience and are able to talk better in front of the group.  Shy people = Observation Questions; Good talkers = Interpretation & Application questions.

Keeping a good discussion group going is a lot like keeping a campfire burning brightly.  If the fire is to burn the right way, the wood has to be arranged in the proper manner and the fire has to be started.  Only then will it burn.

Explaining each point of the Bible passage is lot like putting the pieces of wood in the right place.  This is done with questions of , and .  It might also include the technique of comparison.

However, unless a match is placed to the wood, it won't burn.  In the same way, our discussion has not accomplished its purpose either until it begins to deal with the way truth can be applied, to our day lives.  If we were to continue our illustration we might say that the fire of discussion is only lit with questions having to do with

All that we have said so far about small group studies work well with an experienced group.  But, what do you do with a group which is totally new?  In a situation like this, the leader himself must take the time to introduce the Bible passage.  He must also take responsibility for explaining many of the parts of the passage.  Only then will the group be ready to discuss the way this should affect their own lives.  An inexperienced group will not be able to handle as large a section of the Bible, so the group leader must decide ahead of time which of the practical points are important.

What should be the topic of prayer at the end of small group studies?

I hope that you will follow my suggestions for a small group studies.  It might be a good idea for you to practice as a student.  Then, why not try to start a weekly small group Bible study with some new believers, or better yet, try to find people who might be won to the Lord Jesus through a study of the Bible in their own Home.

Although the main theme of Matthew 8 and 9 is the Miracles, not all of the episodes actually deal with this theme.  There are four parts of Matthew 8 and 9 which are not miracles.  They belong to a secondary theme.  These four sections of Matthew 8 & 9 are as follows:

• Matthew 8:18-22 Those who wanted to follow Jesus

• Matthew 9:9-13 Matthew's Call

• Matthew 9:14-17 The questions of John's disciples

• Matthew 9:35-38 Workers for the harvest.

What is the secondary theme in Matthew 8 and 9?

Testimony

TES:Testimony of Joyce Mlinek
As I look back on the past thirty-eight years of my life, I can't
help but be amazed at the gentle hand of God guiding me along the way.
Born and raised a Roman Catholic, I had always had a deep love and
reverence for God and possessed a desire to please Him. I wanted to be
the best Catholic I could be. I accepted everything I was taught
without question. I even tried to read the Bible a few times, but would
always get discouraged and quit.
In my later teens I began to ask God to enlighten me spiritually so
that I could discern truth. I had a lot ow facts given to me by people
but no concrete proof that this was in fact what God wanted. I had all
along assumed that the priests and certainly the pope knew what they
were talking about. Yet, I never read the Bible to verify their
teachings for myself. I wanted truth but I guess I wasn't interested
enough to take the time to find it.
As I look back now, I can see how God honored my simple prayer for
truth and opened my eyes spiritually to a few of the things that were
happening around me. The Catholic church began making changes in their
teachings. It declared that eating meat on Fridays was no longer a
mortal sin. That really confused me. How could one generation be cast
into hell for something that was okay a generation later? Is that God's
fairness? Other issues began to arise through which God helped me to
realize that something was wrong. If God is the same yesterday, today,
and forever as it says in Hebrews 13:8, then how can things that were
once so wrong be perfectly permissible now. In spite of my confusion, I
continued to be faithful to my church and its beliefs.
During the next ten years as I married and raised a family, both my
husband and I were faithful Catholics but God continued to open both
our eyes to the inconsistencies in the Catholic church.
Unknowing to me, God was also dealing with my younger brother,
Larry. One evening I received a call informing me that Larry had left
the Catholic church and joined a Baptist church. I immediately called
Larry to find out why. We agreed on a family meeting to be held at the
end of the week in which Larry brought with him his new pastor.
The big evening finally arrived and we, as Catholics, were prepared.
We found our Catholic Bible and were ready to defend our faith even
though not one of us knew one Scripture verse. The Baptist minister
began to talk about heaven and hell. I began asking questions. He was
so sure he was going to heaven. I had tired to live my best but I sure
couldn't claim that I knew for sure I was going to heaven. The pastor
then showed me 1 John 5:11-13, "...These things have I written unto you
that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye
have eternal life..."
God was telling me here that I could know that I would have eternal
life. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 5:8, "We are confident, I say, and to
be present with the Lord." He knew where he was going when he died,
didn't he?
The pastor then asked me if I was trusting Jesus alone to be my
personal Saviour. Well, he had me there. I certainly knew that Jesus
had died for my sins on the cross and I believed in the Bible but I
couldn't say that my only trust was in Jesus. I trusted in a lot of
things to get me to heaven. I certainly had hoped that my good living,
my attending church, and the sacraments I received would help. I prayed
to Mary to intercede for me and many times have I said the rosary on
the first Saturday of each month so I could go to heaven. The pastor
then showed me what God had to say about my good works in Ephesians
2:8-9, "For by grace are ye saved through faith and that now of
yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should
boast." and Isaiah 64:6, "But we are all as an unclean thing, and all
our righteousnesses are as filthy rags..." He explained that my being
good and doing everything I was supposed to do would not help get me to
heaven. They may seem good to us but next to God's perfection, all the
goodness we can muster up is still filthy rags. He asked me to turn to
1 Timothy 2:5 and I read, "For there is one God and one mediator
between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." That was really convicting
to me. If there is only one then there is no other. My prayers to Mary
were not going anywhere. God says Jesus is the only go between. I was
practicing idolatry. I was trusting in other things to help me to
heaven.
That was it! Jesus totally paid for everyone's sins on Calvary. John
3:16, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son
that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting
life." God offers us all His free gift of salvation through Jesus
Christ. All we must do is accept that gift and call upon the name of
the Lord. Your good works can't save you, Jesus can; your church can't
save you, Jesus can; and even Mary can't save you, only Jesus can.
It was all so clear now. I saw myself as a lost sinner trying to get
to heaven every way except the right way -- which is accepting God's
free gift of forgiveness of sin through Jesus Christ.
Needless to say, I accepted Christ as my Saviour. I no longer have
to worry about purgatory. There's no such place. Paul says in 2
Corinthians 5:8, "that to be absent for the body is to be present with
the Lord."
My life was totally changed. Christ says in 2 Corinthians 5:17,
"Therefore if any man be in Christ he is a new creature'; old things
are passed away; behold, all things are become new." My husband also
called on the Jesus to save him. We promised God that we would begin
reading His Word, the Bible, and search for what God says is truth, not
man's truth. We joined a church that uses and teaches the Bible. Life
has new meaning for me now. I'm happy in Jesus and I want others to
find that happiness. Maybe God is speaking to you through this tract.
The Bible states in John 6:44, "No man can come to Me, except the
Father which hath sent Me draw him..." It could be that the Father is
trying to draw you into the true Body of Christ. The Bible also says in
2 Corinthians 6:2, "...behold, the accepted time; behold, now is the
day of salvation." It may cost you to take a stand. It may cause
friction between family members and friends but isn't everlasting life
worth it? Read Matthew 10:34-39.
The whole world is lost in the darkness of sin
The light of the world is Jesus.
Like sunshine at noonday His Glory shown in
The light of the world is Jesus.
Come to the light, tis shining for thee.
Sweetly the light had dawned upon me.
Once I was blind, but now I can see.
That the light of the world is Jesus.
YOUR DECISION FOR CHRIST
If you will turn to God in prayer and pray these words and mean them
with all your heart, then God will save you.
Dear Lord Jesus, I now realize I am a sinner in need of personal
salvation. I now put my full and complete trust in Your sacrifice on
the cross to save me. I now believe You are the only mediator between
God and men. I open my heart's door and receive You as Saviour and Lord
of my soul. I repent of my sins and ask You to take full control of my
life and help me to live for you from this day forward...Amen.
Joyce Mlinek
the Salvation Online Network