Applying God's Word: Matt 13:1-23
Overview:
During the previous three studies we looked at some necessary elements of Christianity and the Bible. We summarized the three areas (Longing for Christ – John 1: 1-5, 14-18; Christianity vs. other religions/beliefs; and Food for Life – Isaiah 55) as adding up to our understanding of God’s Word in our lives. When we embrace and respect God’s Word we are equipped to handle our day, walking with Him.
Knowing the Word, however, is not enough. Many people know the definition of cooking, for example, but not everyone can cook well. It takes dedication and practice to create a great meal! The same holds true, in a sense, for Christians. We can know what the Bible says, but unless we trust It completely and have an unwavering commitment to God’s Holy Word, we fall short of what we can be. Unless we Apply God’s Word to our lives, we just know what it is – without application, we are not living the Word.
God’s Word
+
Application
= Christian Living
Summary:
1) Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13: 1-9)
We discussed how God’s Word is definitely ‘good seed’ but the ears & lives it falls upon vary greatly. The group shared their thoughts regarding the imagery in the parable, and it was interesting to find out that we all seemed to focus upon different aspects of the parable (the plant, the rocky ground, the farmer, etc.). It was obvious to us that God’s Word must be spread, or shared with others and that we are not responsible for how it is received – our responsibility is to sow the seed!
2) Jesus Explains His Use of a Parable (v. 10-17)
Why did Jesus teach in parables? He had to constantly be aware of those around Him (Jewish religious leaders) trying to trap Him so they could use His words against Him. Those of us, even today, that want to hear the teachings of Christ will be able to grasp the meaning. Those whose motive is to ridicule or argue against Christianity will never fully understand the true lessons offered by Jesus and God’s Word.
3) Jesus Explains the Parable of the Sower (v. 18-23)
It was interesting to discover that the group’s image, or perception, of the parable took on different angles/pictures after our study of the scripture. It was not that the story changed, but by examining Christ’s words and discussing them aloud, we were able to step outside of our own boxes and begin to see that Jesus shows us all different things based upon our individual life experiences and views. How awesome is it that Jesus uses each of His children in a special and unique way? When we know this and have faith in His plan, we not only know the Word, we can actively live the Word of God!
Further Questions for Study:
* Describe what happens to the seed in each of the four types of soil
* Are people always the same type of soil? What would be some factors in changing the type?
* Is God’s Word rigid and unchanging or fluid and flexible? Why do you think so?
* Can we see and hear Jesus today? How?
Next Study 7/16 Gathering Around the Word Acts 2: 42-47
During the previous three studies we looked at some necessary elements of Christianity and the Bible. We summarized the three areas (Longing for Christ – John 1: 1-5, 14-18; Christianity vs. other religions/beliefs; and Food for Life – Isaiah 55) as adding up to our understanding of God’s Word in our lives. When we embrace and respect God’s Word we are equipped to handle our day, walking with Him.
Knowing the Word, however, is not enough. Many people know the definition of cooking, for example, but not everyone can cook well. It takes dedication and practice to create a great meal! The same holds true, in a sense, for Christians. We can know what the Bible says, but unless we trust It completely and have an unwavering commitment to God’s Holy Word, we fall short of what we can be. Unless we Apply God’s Word to our lives, we just know what it is – without application, we are not living the Word.
God’s Word
+
Application
= Christian Living
Summary:
1) Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13: 1-9)
We discussed how God’s Word is definitely ‘good seed’ but the ears & lives it falls upon vary greatly. The group shared their thoughts regarding the imagery in the parable, and it was interesting to find out that we all seemed to focus upon different aspects of the parable (the plant, the rocky ground, the farmer, etc.). It was obvious to us that God’s Word must be spread, or shared with others and that we are not responsible for how it is received – our responsibility is to sow the seed!
2) Jesus Explains His Use of a Parable (v. 10-17)
Why did Jesus teach in parables? He had to constantly be aware of those around Him (Jewish religious leaders) trying to trap Him so they could use His words against Him. Those of us, even today, that want to hear the teachings of Christ will be able to grasp the meaning. Those whose motive is to ridicule or argue against Christianity will never fully understand the true lessons offered by Jesus and God’s Word.
3) Jesus Explains the Parable of the Sower (v. 18-23)
It was interesting to discover that the group’s image, or perception, of the parable took on different angles/pictures after our study of the scripture. It was not that the story changed, but by examining Christ’s words and discussing them aloud, we were able to step outside of our own boxes and begin to see that Jesus shows us all different things based upon our individual life experiences and views. How awesome is it that Jesus uses each of His children in a special and unique way? When we know this and have faith in His plan, we not only know the Word, we can actively live the Word of God!
Further Questions for Study:
* Describe what happens to the seed in each of the four types of soil
* Are people always the same type of soil? What would be some factors in changing the type?
* Is God’s Word rigid and unchanging or fluid and flexible? Why do you think so?
* Can we see and hear Jesus today? How?
Next Study 7/16 Gathering Around the Word Acts 2: 42-47
posted by Tonya at 7/09/2006 10:00:00 PM
1 Comments:
This looks great! Tonya you are fantastic.
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