Sunday School 'Use Gods Strength"

The Universal Life Church Seminary finds Sunday School Lessons to share.

All About The Kingdom  Sunday School Lesson Let God Rule!  Lesson Text: Lesson: Judges 7:2-4, 13-15; 8:22-25 Background Scripture: Judges 6-8; 21:25 Devotional Reading: Psalm 81 INTRODUCTION Israel's Situation      The sin cycle of the story line of Judges is clearly marked in the account of Gideon (see Judges 6:1). Apostasy led to oppression. This is an indication of God's sovereignty at work in bringing judgment on His sinful people. For seven long years the Midianites, with the aid of Amalekites and the "children of the east" (a nomadic group from the Syrian desert, east of the Jordan River), raided the Israelites at harvesttime in order to take the best of their produce, including livestock (6:3,4). The Israelites resorted to hiding in caves and assembling fortresses to protect themselves from the multitude of marauders (6:2).       LESSON BACKGROUND Gideon's Reluctance  Time: 1191 B.C. Places: Near the hill of Moreh; Near Succoth and Peniel  Like other leaders called by God, Gideon was reluctant. The Mosaic covenant required that there be no testing of God (Deuteronomy 6:16); yet Gideon tested God at least three times. The first test was just after Gideon was called by the angel of the Lord to save the people (Judges 6:12-14). From the very beginning, Gideon tried to weasel out of his calling (6:7-15). When the Lord insisted that Gideon accept, Gideon asked for "a sign" that this was truly God speaking (6:17). The angel of the Lord complied (6:18-24). The second test was requested after Gideon was filled with God's Spirit to lead (Judges 6:34). Gideon requested that a fleece of wool be covered with dew in the morning while the ground around it remained dry (6:37). It happened just that way (6:38), but that was not convincing for Gideon! So in his third test, Gideon asked God to reverse the miracle (6:39). God did so (6:40).      God has a sense of humor, indeed, for during all this God described Gideon as a "mighty man of valour" (Judges 6:12). He declared that Gideon would smite the Midianites in "thy might" (6:14). What descriptions for a reluctant warrior! What Gideon should have listened to were these words: "The Lord is with thee," "Have not I sent thee?" and "Surely I will be with thee" (6:12,14,16). Fully appreciating the sovereignty and power of God helps us overcome fear and weakness.      Click Here for Complete Lesson

Sunday School "A Man of Integrity"

The Universal Life Church Seminary Finds Sunday School Lessons for Ministers

All About The Kingdom  Sunday School Lesson "A Man of Integrity"       Lesson Text: Genesis 39:7-21 Background Scripture: Genesis 39:1-23 Devotional Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13   INTRODUCTION     Temptations come in many forms. Some people are tempted to lie or steal. Others are tempted to abuse drugs or alcohol. The greatest allurement for many is gossip or gluttony. Others might be tempted by possessions or power. But many, sexual immorality is Satan's greatest lure.     When people succumb to any of the above, the tendency of some is to wonder how they could fall prey to such a sin. It is often hard for us to see ourselves being ensnared in certain ways. But given the right circumstances, there is no sin any of us are incapable of committing.     Of course, Satan knows our weaknesses and will provide opportunities where we are most vulnerable to being caught in his snare. Peter's boasting (Luke 22:31-34) and Judas's greed (John 12:4-6) set them up for the temptations that led to their respective falls.     Joseph, however, resisted temptation. He thus provides a model for us in gaining victory over sin.     The lessons this quarter have revolved around God's establishment of and care for His people Israel.     The context of this week's lesson is found in Genesis 39:1-6. Joseph had been sold by his jealous brothers to a band of Ishmaelite merchants on their way to Egypt to sell spices (chap. 37). Once in Egypt, Joseph was sold as a slave to Potiphar, the captain of Pharaoh's guard. Joseph flourished and excelled in Potiphar's service as the Lord blessed them both. LESSON BACKGROUND     The first three lessons of the quarter featured Abram/Abraham to introduce the theme "God Establishes a Faithful People." Abraham is the first person in the Bible about whom it is said that he believed God (Genesis 15:5). The writer of the book of Hebrews, however, cites three others lived before Abraham whose lives exemplified faith (Abel, Enoch, and Noah, per Hebrews 11:4-7).     Abraham died at age 175. At that time, grandsons Jacob and Esau, were 15 (Genesis 21:5; 25:7,8,26). The fact that Abraham had only two grandsons through Isaac may have cause Abraham to wonder about the rate at which God was moving to fulfill the promise that his descendants would be as many as the stars (15:5). These grandsons began to change things, for Jacob became the father of 12 sons (35:23-26), and Esau had 5 sons (36:4,5).     It is Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob, who is featured in this lesson and the next three. Joseph was the first son of Jacob's favorite wife (Rachel), and Jacob demonstrated favoritism in giving Joseph a multicolored robe, the kind worn by persons in places of royalty (Genesis 37:3). The same word is used in 2 Samuel 13:18 for a robe worn by a daughter of King David.     This preferential treatment produced jealously on the part of Joseph's older brothers (Genesis 47:4). This intensified when Joseph related two of his dreams that depicted family members paying homage to him (37:5-9). When the brothers had an opportunity, they mistreated Joseph and sold him into slavery. As Jacob had once deceived his own father (Genesis 27:5-33), so he was deceived in turn by his sons: they dipped Joseph's robe in the blood of an animal, presented it to Jacob, and asked him to identify the robe. This caused Jacob to believe that his favorite son was dead (37:31-35). Click Here for Complete Lesson

Sunday School Lesson

Sunday School Lesson

Pharaoh's Last Chance (Fearing God)
by Craig

LESSON OBJECTIVE
Topics: Moses, Plagues, Fearing God, Hardened Heart, Wrath After completing this lesson, the children will learn to look for God's warnings about bad behavior and how we can benefit when we listen and obey God.
AS KIDS ARRIVE (15 minutes)
Warning Signs (Activity) Click here
OPENING PRAYER AND PRAISES (5 minutes) Further info? Click here
MEMORY WORK (6 minutes)
"Blessed is the man who always fears the Lord, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble" Proverbs 28:14 Have the kids find this verse in their Bibles, and read it several times out loud. Have them close their eyes and try to say the verse again.
SCRIPTURE READING AND DISCUSSION (15 minutes)
Introduction: Last week we learned how God spoke to Moses, telling him to go back to Egypt to help free the Israelites from Pharaoh's grip. God gave Moses the words to say, and the power to perform miracles before Pharaoh to make him let the people go. To convince Pharaoh he was dealing with the one and only true God, He sent ten plagues on Egypt. A little later we will sing about these plagues (optional). But each time, Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he did not obey God. Instead, he did not let the people go. Our lesson today begins with the tenth plague. It was the most devastating plague of them all. It was Pharaoh's last chance. It was his last warning. Let's find out what happened. Exodus 11:1-8, 12: 29-32 (Pharaoh Finally Gives In) Discussion Questions: 1. What did God say would happen after this plague? (Pharaoh would drive the Israelites completely out of Egypt.) 2. What was going to happen to all of the Egyptian families? (All of the firstborn males, both people and cattle would die) 3. At what time was this plague going to take place? (Midnight) 4. What did the Israelites take from the Egyptian people? (Silver and Gold) 5. Why do you think Pharaoh let the people go after this plague when he didn't after the first nine plagues? (It affected him personally, taking the life of someone dear to him.)   6. Is having a fear of the Lord a good thing or a bad thing? Why? (It is a good thing, because when we fear the Lord, we become obedient to His Word and receive His blessings.)
CLASS EXERCISES ( 5 minutes and 15 minutes )
Hardened Heart (Object Talk) Click here   The Passover (Skit for up to 9 volunteers) Click here
ALTERNATE CLASS EXERCISE (10 minutes)
The Plague Song (Song) Click here
APPLICATION (2 minutes)
Although Pharaoh was given many signs to know God was in control, he did not fear Him. Instead his heart was hardened and that led to disobedience. We have warning signs too. Not only are there signs that warn us about physical dangers, like we discussed earlier today, but the Bible is also full of warning signs. The Ten Commandments are a good example of some of these warnings, and there are many others. So what do we need to do to learn how to fear God and try to be obedient to Him in every area of our lives.
NEXT WEEK
What would you do if when we tried to leave this room today, the doors would not open no matter how hard we tried. Would you panic? Something very similar happened to the Israelites. Come back next week to see how they got out of their difficult situation.
CLOSING PRAYER (2 minutes) Further info?
TAKE HOME PAGE
Give one copy to each child at the end of the class to take home.			From http://www.kidssundayschool.com

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Sunday School Lesson

The Life Of Moses (Lesson 2) God Speaks with Moses (God's Holiness) Sunday School Lesson by Craig

LESSON OBJECTIVE

Topics: Moses, Holiness, Listening, Will of God After completing this lesson, the children will learn that God desires to communicate with us and how important it is for us to listen.

AS KIDS ARRIVE (15 minutes)

Ways to Communicate: As the children arrive, hand them a blank sheet of paper and a pencil and have them write down as many ways or things they can think of that people use to communicate. Give one or two examples (see below). After everyone has arrived, and jotted down a few things, write their unique answers on the board. Include any additional items of your own they could not think of. Then take a vote by a showing of hands which item the kids believe is the best or most effective way and the least effective way to communicate. Close the activity by saying, "There are many great ways to communicate, some are more effective than others, but God can communicate with us in miraculous ways. Today we will discover one unforgettable way God talked with Moses. Examples: Radio, Television, Books, Magazines, Loud speakers, Prayer, Angels

OPENING PRAYER AND PRAISES (5 minutes) Further info? Click here

MEMORY WORK (6 minutes)

"My help comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth" Psalm 121:2 The kids should be familiar with this verse from last week. Today, have the kids sit in a circle, and call out one name. That child will say the first part of the verse. The child to his left (clockwise) must say the second part of the verse, and the next child to the left say the reference. Do this several times so everyone has a chance to say part of the verse.

SCRIPTURE READING AND DISCUSSION (15 minutes)

Introduction: Last week we learned about how God protected Moses by having the Pharaoh's daughter raise him as her own child. God had a plan for Moses from the time he was born. Now Moses is a married man, and it is time for God to tell Moses what to do. During this time the Israelite people who are living in Egypt are being treated very badly. The Egyptians are using them like slaves to do all the hard work. But the Israelites are God's chosen people, so God is going to use Moses to free them from their suffering. Our lesson begins with Moses tending the sheep belonging to Jethro his Father-in-law. Exodus 3:1-15 (The story of Moses and the Burning Bush) Discussion Questions: 1. What was strange about the bush that Moses saw in the mountain? (It never stopped burning) 2. Why do you suppose God chose a burning bush as a way to speak to Moses? (To get the attention of Moses and to show His fearsome power) 3. Why did God tell Moses to take off his sandals? (Because he was on holy ground) 4. How did Moses react to God's request? (He didn't think he was worthy -said "who am I") 5. How was God going to help Moses deliver His message? (God would be with him) 6. Who was Moses to say sent him, if asked by the Israelites? (Moses was to say "I AM has sent me.")

CLASS EXERCISES (20 minutes)

Selling God's Word (Activity) Click here

ALTERNATE CLASS EXERCISE (10 minutes)

Old Time Telephone (Game) Have the kids either sit in a circle or line up, and play the old telephone game to show how important it is to listen carefully to the Word of God. You can use the following phrases or make up your own: 1. When God spoke to Moses, He did it in a very strange way, by using a bush. 2. Moses was not prepared to hear what he heard up in the mountain. 3. God has a special plan for all of us, so we need to listen carefully to what the Word of God says.

APPLICATION (2 minutes)

God desires to communicate with us all the time. Sometimes however we are just too busy to listen to God. Perhaps we feel God has more important things to do than talk to us. But that cannot be further from the truth. God loves us very much and wants to tell us many things. That's why we need to take time to pray, and hear what God has to say. Let's pray now, and ask God to help us to listen to Him.

NEXT WEEK

If you really wanted to do something, what would make you change your mind. Next week we will learn about a man who wouldn't change his mind even when he was covered with flies and other creepy things.

CLOSING PRAYER (2 minutes)

TAKE HOME PAGE

Give one copy to each child at the end of the class to take home. ********************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Sunday School Lesson

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON OBJECTIVE

Topics: Moses as a baby Moses, Protection After completing this lesson, the children will learn that God protects us and has a plan for each of our lives.

AS KIDS ARRIVE (15 minutes)

Draw the following chart on the board:   Things that protect us People that protect us (examples: bicycle helmets, seat belts, gloves) (examples: Fireman, policeman, God) As the children arrive, give them a sheet of paper and have them copy the chart from the board, or have copies already made up before class. Have them jot down as many things and people they can think of while waiting for everyone to arrive. When finished, discuss what everyone came up with and write unique items of the board for all to see.

OPENING PRAYER AND PRAISES (5 minutes) Further info? Click here

MEMORY WORK (6 minutes)

"My help comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth" Psalm 121:2 Have the kids find this verse in their Bibles, and read it several times out loud. Have them close their eyes and try to say the verse again.

SCRIPTURE READING AND DISCUSSION (15 minutes)

Introduction: Today we will learn about the birth of Moses. Moses was born a long time ago in Egypt. But he was not an Egyptian. He was an Israelite. At that time the Pharaoh of Egypt gave an order that every newborn baby boy was to be thrown into the Nile River and killed, but baby girls could live. That doesn't sound fair does it? Can you imagine the sadness parents had when a baby boy was born? But this is a story about how God can protect His own chosen people, even during evil times like this. Exodus 2:1-10 (The story of the birth of Moses) Discussion Questions: 1. Instead of throwing Moses into the Nile, what did his mother do with him for the first three months of his life? (She hid him) 2. When his mother could hide him no longer, what did she do with Moses? (She put him in a basket and set him among the reeds in the Nile) 3. Where did Pharaoh's daughter find the baby? (Along the bank of the Nile among the reeds) 4. What was Pharaoh's daughter doing when she found Moses? (Bathing with her servants) 5. Do you think Moses was found by accident, or was it God's plan? (God's plan) 6. Who did Pharaoh's daughter find to nurse the baby? (His mother) 7. How do we see God's protection in this story? (God protected Moses from dying in the Nile River by allowing Pharaoh's daughter to find him and raise him as an Egyptian.)

CLASS EXERCISES (10 minutes)

Moses in the Nile (Skit for six children) Click here

APPLICATION (2 minutes)

We use many thingsto protect us for instance helmets, gloves and heavy coats in the winter. People also protect us from harm, such as firemen and lifeguards. God's protection is always there, even when we don't know it. He has a plan for us just like He did for Moses. Although things may seem difficult at the time, God is always working in us for the good. The Bible says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28) This week, everyone should spend some time in prayer, thanking God for His protection. Remember, our help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.

NEXT WEEK

Did you ever hear a red rose talk? Come back next week and we will learn about something just as strange, but very true.

CLOSING PRAYER (2 minutes)

TAKE HOME PAGE

Give one copy to each child at the end of the class to take home. ********************** Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Sunday School Lesson

The Golden Rule

To Remember: We should treat others as we want to be treated

Vocabulary
   Love: putting others first

Lesson

Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

God has always given His people guidance on how they should treat one another. We tend to be selfish, unless trained otherwise. But God wants us to be considerate of others. He said that we should treat others they way we would like to be treated. How do you like to be treated? With respect, listened to, not interrupted, loved, share things with, treated fairly, honest with, follow through on promises. If we like these things from others, it is only natural that others would like us to treat them the same. Display and discuss the iron rule, silver rule, golden rule. (Define on a chart: Iron Rule "Do unto others before the do it to me." Silver Rule "Do unto others as they do unto me." Golden Rule "Do unto others as I would have them do unto me."
 
SING: I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart

Love is not just a warm fuzzy feeling of affection, although it can include that. Love is putting someone else first in your life; taking care of what they need before taking care of your needs. The golden rule is love in action; treating others well, because others are as important as you are. Jesus said that Christians' love and caring for each other would be how the world identified us.

John 13:34,35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

True or False

1. God didn't always want people to love each other. F
2. We don't know how others want to be treated. F
3. Jesus cared for others more than himself. T
4. People around us can tell if we love one another. T
5. It is easy to be unselfish. F
6. The silver rule says: love those that love you. T
7. Loving others makes us like God. T

Activities

Discussion/Worksheet: Have students choose the "rule" applied in each of the examples (iron, silver, gold)

1. When Cain killed Abel.      iron
2. When Israelites took revenge on murderers in the Old Testament.      silver
3. When Christ died for us.   gold
4. When we hit back.  silver
5. When we lie to keep from getting in trouble.      iron
6. When we forgive.    gold

Printable Worksheet: Unscramble a verse about the golden rule
 
Memory Work:

• Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
• PK "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

Activities:

1. Think about how you like to be treated. Now choose one person you will make an effort to treat like this in the coming week. (Picking someone who is difficult to be around will make a significant difference in your week!)
2. Draw a picture of someone applying the "golden rule."
3. Act out the following scenarios, with both "silver" and "golden" responses. Discuss how the golden response promotes peace and love, and reflects Christ.
   • A fellow student makes fun of your outfit in the lunch line. How do you handle it?
   • You and a friend are telling your parents about your field trip. Your friend interrupted you and took over the story. He's leaving out parts. What do you do?
   • You know someone who lies all the time. One day she asks you in you can help her with a project on Friday. You know for a fact you could, but you'd rather not. How to you respond?

Review Questions for gameboard

 linguistic questions

1. Summarize the "golden rule". Treat others as you want them to treat you
2. Unscramble the word:     veol     (love)
3. Name the book where this lesson is taught.   (Matthew, John)

  activity questions

1. Act out someone who is not putting others first.
2. Draw a heart with your eyes shut.
3. Name something you will do this week for someone you don't like.

  emotion questions

1. How do you feel when others let you pick first? special, happy
2. How do you feel when other people won't share with you? unhappy, disliked
3. How does God feel when we treat each other nice? happy, pleased

application questions

1. How should I treat those who don't like me? the same as my friends
2. In what ways has God treated you better than you deserve? he always provides for us, he blesses us with more than we need, he sent his son to die for us
3. In what ways can you treat others "like yourself"? Share the best of what I have, let them go first, treat them politely and kindly, help when needed

fact questions

1. Who treats us better than anyone else? God
2. Do we deserve God's mercy? yes
3. Who should we show kindness to? everyone

review questions

1. Why should we treat others well? 1) to be like God, 2) to show we are his children, 3) because we were treated well by God, 4) it is God's law
2. How do we determine how to treat others? We do what we'd like done to us
3. What example can we look to when we are uncertain how to act? Jesus 

**********************

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Sunday School Lesson

_____________________ "Called to Be a Winner" Printed Text: 1 Corinthians 9:24-10:13 Background Scripture:1 Corinthians 9:24-10:13. Devotional Reading:Hebrews 12:1-12. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; 2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat; 4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink; for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. 5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. 6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. 7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. 8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. 9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. 10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. 11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. 12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. 13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. INTRODUCTION   At the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, John Stephen Akhwari, a runner from Tanzania, finished dead last in the marathon. Injured along the way, Akhwari hobbled into the nearly empty stadium an hour after the last runner had crossed the finish line.   The official filmmaker for the games, Bud Greenspan, asked the athlete why he put himself through so much pain to finish the race. Akhwari replied, "My country did not send me 5000 miles to start the race. They sent me to finish it!" (Roper, Out of the Ordinary, Discovery House).   When we trusted in Christ, we began the Christian race. Like the African runner, we entered the race not merely to begin it but to finish it! Therefore it is imperative that we persevere to the end. The Christian life is not a quick sprint but a long-distance marathon!   To successfully finish, we must "lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and ... run with patience the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1). LESSON AIMS After participating in this lesson, each student will be able to: 1. Restate the positive and negative examples that Paul gives regarding following through to the end. 2. Draw one parallel between the ancient Israelites’ experiences in the wilderness and the challenges of modern Christian life. 3. Plan to overcome a specific temptations Our Efforts (1 Corinthians 9:24–27) 1. What two athletic illustrations did Paul use to depict the Christian life (1 Corinthians 9:24)?   Since the Corinthians would have been familiar with both the ancient Olympic and Isthmian games that occurred in Greece, Paul used illustrations from athletics to press home his point. Although the ancient Greek games had few events compared to the modern Olympics, races were always prominent. As in all races, there is only one runner who receives the blue ribbon or the gold medal. "So run, that ye may obtain" (v. 24), said Paul. In short, run to win! All those entering the Christian race should strive to cross the finish line. A similar thought is found in Philippians: "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (3:14). 2. What are some examples of modern “prizes” that we are tempted to pursue that pale in comparison with what is available through Christ? How do we keep a proper focus?   Some people go to great lengths in an effort to become famous or even merely popular. Others are willing to pour overwhelming energy into their vocation in an effort to obtain promotions or “self-fulfillment.” The pursuit of our culture’s status symbols-bigger houses, luxury boats, impressive cars, designer clothing, and the latest electronic gadgets-frequently dominates even the lives of God’s people. The pursuit of expertise in various hobbies can essentially become the pursuit of a fading crown. The pursuit of certain relationships can fall into this category.   Perspective is one key to proper focus. For example, the desire for a ______ _______ can be examined with the prayerful question, “Why do I really think I need a ______ _______ ?” Beware of the danger of rationalizing! 3. How was an ancient athlete "temperate" (v. 25)?   As in modern sports, ancient athletes had to be "temperate" (v. 25), or self-controlled, in order to prepare for their chosen event. Those unwilling to enter such strict training would prove unsuccessful.   The ancient athlete was willing to commit to such self-discipline for a mere earthly reward, "a corruptible crown" (v. 25). The winner was awarded a simple wreath-crown that would quickly fade and become brittle. Even the gold medal of the modern Olympics will eventually be burned up (2 Pet. 3:10).   As Christians, we are running a race to receive an "incorruptible" crown (1 Cor. 9:25). As saints, our calling is to "an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:4). 4. What are some additional similarities between the Christian life and athletics that can help us live faithfully for God? Which similarity do you find to be most important? What hidden dangers are there?   One similarity is the single-minded focus required for success. Becoming a world-class athlete in many sports is a full-time job. Similarly, our development as disciples requires that we make spiritual issues the highest of priorities. The physical and mental exertion required to develop athletically is paralleled by the extreme effort required for spiritual maturity. We are sometimes lulled into thinking that Christian maturity can come without great effort. But Paul describes the process as very hard work.   But there is a pitfall: a few people focus so much on being spiritually minded that they no longer are able to “connect with” the unsaved. Shuffling off to join a monastery (house for monks), either physically or just in one’s thoughts, doesn’t help! 5. What did Paul mean when he said he wanted to avoid being a "castaway" (v. 27)?   Using himself as an example, Paul said that he was not like a man running aimlessly. He sought to stay on course and not become distracted by those things that might pull him off the chosen path (cf. 2 Tim. 4:7). Changing the figure from running to boxing, Paul said that he was not merely shadowboxing, either. He was at-tempting to land blows where they would count.   As all athletes know, the human body must be brought into subjection. The body may want food or drink that may not be best for athletic training. The body may want to stay up late when it needs rest. The body may want to quit when the coach says to go on. So it is in the Christian life. The believer must live a life of self-discipline. "Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me" (Mark 8:34), Jesus said.   Even though Paul had "preached to others" (1 Cor. 9:27), he knew that he had to persevere to the end; otherwise, he might become a "castaway." This word meant rejected, disqualified, or not standing the test.   Paul is not only a Christian preacher, he is also one who plays in the game. That is, he not only preached the Gospel but he also lived by the Gospel's rules. True Christians, while confident of God's sovereign grace, are nevertheless conscious of their own battle against sin" (Barker and Kohlenberger). Their Examples (1 Corinthians 10:1–5) 6. How was Israel "baptized unto Moses" (1 Corinthians 10:12) How does this relate to Christian baptism?   Having encouraged faithfulness by using athletic illustrations, Paul now turns to the example of Israel to stress the same point. Although many of the Corinthians were Gentiles, it was appropriate to refer to the ancient Israelites as "our fathers" (v. 1). There is a continuity between the Old Testament saints and New Testament believers. Indeed, those who trust in Christ are "Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise" (Galatians 3:29).   After the ten plagues were visited on Egypt, Moses led the Israelites out of bondage and on their journey toward the Promised Land. "The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night" (Exodus 13:21).   The first major obstacle on the journey was the Red Sea. At God's command, Moses lifted his rod, the sea parted, and the people passed through on dry land. "The waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left" (Exod. 14:22).   That the people of Israel were "baptized unto Moses" (1 Cor. 10:2) simply means that they submitted themselves to the authority and leadership of Moses. Similarly, those who trust in Christ submit to His authority by being obedient followers of Christ (Matthew 28:18-20). As the Hebrews were "baptized unto Moses" under the old covenant (1 Cor. 10:2), so those rescued from spiritual bondage under the new covenant are "baptized into Christ" (Gal. 3:27). Christian baptism portrays what the blood of Christ performs (Romans 6:3-4). 7. Who was the "spiritual Rock" (v. 4) that accompanied Israel in the wilderness?   Once they passed through the Red Sea, the Hebrews found themselves in the wilderness. During their long and difficult journey, they relied on God to provide them with both food and drink. While God sustained them physically, they were also being spiritually nourished.   The "spiritual Rock" (v. 4) that accompanied them on this journey was Christ Himself. While we often think of Christ in terms of His earthly ministry, we must not forget that He is the eternal Son of God, who preexisted with the Father (John 1:1-3; Phil. 2:5-8; Heb. 1:1-3).   Although the Israelites had the very presence of God as they journeyed to-ward the Promised Land, "with many of them God was not well pleased" (1 Cor. 10:5). Consequently, the vast majority of those rescued from Egyptian bondage never saw the Promised Land (cf. Heb. 3:16-19).   The application for the Corinthian church was clear. Just because they had trusted in Christ and were baptized (Acts 18:8) did not mean they had arrived at the end of the journey. Like the children of Israel in the wilderness, they were facing many trials and temptations along the journey. In their arrogance, they may have assumed that they were above sin (1 Cor. 10:12). As with the well-trained athlete (9:25,27), though, perseverance and diligence are necessary to complete the race (Phil. 3:12-14). Our Task (1 Corinthians 10:6–13) 8. What four examples did Paul give from the wilderness journey (vs. 6-10)?   Although we are no longer under the old covenant (Rom. 6:14), there are many examples in the Old Testament that are helpful to Christians. More often than not, these examples tell us what not to do. Paul selected four examples (or warnings) from the wilderness experience of Israel to encourage the Corinthians to faithfully and patiently endure.   The first example was a warning against idolatry. The incident alluded to was when Aaron made the golden calf (Exod. 32:1-6). Those unwilling to repent were slain by the Levites, and about three thousand perished (v. 28).   The second example was the Israelites' fornication with the daughters of Moab (Num. 25:1-9). Because of this sin, God brought a plague upon the people that resulted in the deaths of more than 23,000 people in a single day.   The third example was when the people became impatient and began to speak against God and Moses. They said, "Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread" (Numbers 21:5). Because of their complaining, God sent "fiery serpents" (v. 6), or poisonous snakes, among the people, many of whom perished. Only by looking with faith on the bronze serpent erected by Moses could the people be healed (Num. 21:9; cf. John 3:14; 8:28; 12:32).   Although there were several occasions when the people murmured (or grumbled) against Moses, the fourth example used by Paul probably referred to Korah's rebellion (Num.16). Besides the earth opening up and swallowing the rebellious leaders (vs.. 31-33), over 14,000 were killed by a plague (vs. 49). The "destroyer" (1 Cor. 10:10) is likely a reference to a destroying angel (cf. 2 Sam. 24:16-17; 2 Kings 19:35).   Significantly, the examples selected by Paul as warnings to the Corinthian church paralleled some of the very problems they were facing. 9. Why did Paul warn the Corinthians about falling (vs. 11,12)?   The things that had happened to ancient Israel in the wilderness "happened unto them for ensamples." "Ensamples" is an archaic spelling of the word "examples." The Greek word here is a form of the word tupos, which is also used in verse 6.   These Old Testament examples have come down to us for the purpose of "admonition" (1 Cor. 10:11), or warning. Those who are unwilling to learn from the past are destined to repeat those mistakes again. Many people think that they are strong. But this complacency leads them to become careless and undisciplined, leaving them unprepared to resist temptation. If the Corinthians would not receive this instruction, they were headed for spiritual disaster. The phrase "upon whom the ends of the world are come" indicates that the warnings of the past find their fulfillment in the present. That is, they are relevant for those living in this current age.  10. How is God faithful to us when we are experiencing temptation (v. 13)?   This verse is one of the great promises of the Bible. First, no temptation, trial, or test that we face is unique. While we may sometimes feel that we are the only person facing a particular trial or temptation, this is not true.   The temptations and tribulations we face are "common to man," that is, they are the kinds of things all of us experience. To be sure, not every person will be tested in the same way, but we all are tempted. Since Christ "was in all points tempted like as we are" (Hebrews 4:15), we can be confident that He fully understands the plight of human beings.   Since "God is faithful" (1 Cor. 10:13), He will not allow us to be tempted beyond our strength to resist. In the midst of temptation we may not think this to be true, but it is. Therefore, we cannot blame Satan or others when we succumb to temptation. If we sin, it is because we choose to do so.   God also promises that with each temptation there is an escape route. Just as there are doors into temptation, so too there are doors out. Of course, Satan will try to make the temptation so attractive that we may not be looking for a way out. Like Christ (Luke 4:1-13), we must use the "sword of the Spirit" (Eph. 6:17), "the word of God") to gain victory over the devil.   Several years ago, nascar driver Steve Park was involved in a serious accident when his steering wheel came off. The doors on race cars do not open, so drivers must crawl in and out of the vehicle through a window. To make this easier the cars are equipped with removable steering wheels.   Park’s accident occurred during a caution period in a race, when the cars move slowly around the track. While he cannot remember exactly what happened, it seems that Park turned his head momentarily as another vehicle approached on his left. In that split second, his steering wheel somehow detached. Park’s car veered suddenly and was broadsided by the passing car. Someone at some point had not securely fastened the steering wheel. That momentary loss of focus could have cost Park his life!   When Paul compares the Christian life with a race, he does not mean to encourage a competitive spirit. He means to stress our need to be prepared and vigilant at all times. Unfortunately, we usually do not know when trials and temptations will crop up; they often seem to come when we least expect them or are least prepared to deal with them.   The danger may be greatest when we feel the strongest, because at these moments a false sense of security may lead us to drop our guard. We therefore are on the alert constantly. We discipline ourselves spiritually so that we will be ready for any challenge that comes our way.   God, please give us the discipline and focus to remain pure in an evil world. Help us to keep focused on the prize ahead, and help us to draw on Your strength to endure temptations. Help us also to understand that You are a holy God and that You have called us to be a holy people for You. In Jesus’ name, amen. Stay focused and disciplined to win life’s race! Anticipating Next Week's Lesson:   Next week's lesson introduces spiritual gifts and their importance to the body of Christ. Study 1 Corinthians 12:1-13. 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