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David C Cook Editorial

Jul 27

In the World–August 2, 2026

By "In the World"

Download “In the World” for August 2, 2026 here.

EVIDENCE FOR LIFE BEYOND EARTH

Scientists recently applied complex layers of technology to examine a specific planet designated as K2-18b for signs of alien life. This planet fits the potential profile for one that could support life: the right distance from its star, the right kind of atmosphere, and rich in chemical building-blocks that life requires on earth. Scientists even used precision telescopes and other technology to “listen” for transmissions that would indicate intentionally-crafted communication. To date, there have been no confirmed sound signatures that point to intelligent life. The search for life outside of our planet relies on technology created to detect life as we know it. Some theorize that we do not yet understand life as it might appear outside of earth.

EVIDENCE OF JESUS’ RESURRECTION

In Scene One, Jesus has given a clear report about Lazarus to his disciples: Lazarus died from an illness. Jesus is eager to go to Lazarus, to cause others to believe. Thomas rallies the other disciples with a courageous attitude—willing to face death with Jesus. In Scene Two, we skip ahead to the eve of Jesus’ arrest. Jesus is promising to go ahead of them, but he is talking about departing to be with God the Father. Thomas asks how to follow Jesus, to wherever he is going. Jesus gives an indirect answer: find God by following Jesus. In Scene Three, Jesus appears to the disciples in a locked room. Jesus appears, and Thomas gets all the evidence he needs. Thomas is together with the other disciples, when they meet Jesus again beside the Sea of Galilee.

  1. What kind of evidence would persuade you that alien life exists?
  2. How does Jesus help Thomas, and others, find evidence to believe?
  3. How does the resurrection and power of Jesus address your questions?

Additional Links

Any videos or web materials are for your personal use. If you play any media files in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

Playlists:

Study Resources:

Jul 27

August 2, 2026: Thomas, the Reluctant Believer (John 11:14–16; 14:5–8; 20:24–29; 21:1–2)

By Teacher Tips

To begin the session:

Follow the instructions on the “Tough Questions (Facilitator Page)” exercise from the activity pages, which you can download here.

Lead into Bible study by saying, “We all have doubts and questions—some are inconsequential curiosities, but others have real significance to our faith and worldview. In today’s lesson, notice the main character’s questions and doubts. Consider the ways you relate to him.”

To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:

Ask participants to pair up with a partner. Distribute the “Thomas’s Journey” exercise from the activity page. Ask pairs to complete the activity as indicated.

Jul 20

In the World–July 26, 2026

By "In the World"

Download “In the World” for July 26, 2026 here.

A DISCOVERY, UNDERSTOOD LATER

The American chemist Raymond Davis Jr. (1914–2006) was famous for studying neutrinos. These tiny, nearly massless particles move through space and matter. In 1961, Davis began studying neutrinos from the sun. But his “Homestake Experiment” detected only one-third of the expected number according to then-current models. The surprising result became known as the “solar neutrino puzzle.” Some questioned the validity of Davis’s work, but he remained committed to the research. Later, scientists confirmed his findings but learned that their understanding had been incomplete. Updated research showed that neutrinos can change forms as they travel from the sun, Davis’s experiment revealed a truth that took decades to understand. His work was finally honored with the Nobel Prize in Physics.

GOD’S PLAN, UNDERSTOOD LATER

Mary trusted God even when she could not see the full picture of his work. She treasured the shepherds’ words after the birth of Jesus (Luke 2:15–19). Years later, at a wedding in Cana, she trusted Jesus to respond when the wine ran dry (John 2:1–5). Then, at the cross, she stood near her son as he suffered. Before he died, Jesus entrusted her care to a disciple (John 19:25–27). Throughout Jesus’ life, Mary witnessed Jesus’ humanity and his divinity, even though she may not have fully understood. Her consistent “yes” to God teaches us that we can trust him when we do not yet fully understand how his purposes will unfold.

  1. When have you discovered something that took a long time for you to understand?
  2. Why can it be difficult to remain faithful, when answers are slow to appear?
  3. In what ways can you say “yes” to God, even though you may not fully understand?

Additional Links

Any videos or web materials are for your personal use. If you play any media files in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

Playlists:

Study Resources:

Jul 20

July 26, 2026: Mary, the Loyal Mother (Luke 2:15–19; John 2:1–5; 19:25–27)

By Teacher Tips

To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:

Distribute copies of the “Same News, Different Experiences” exercise from the activity page, which you can download here. Give groups a few minutes to work on it and share their responses.

Ask a volunteer to read John 19:25–27. Ask small groups to discuss the following question and create a group “Top Ten” list: If you knew you would die tomorrow, what are the ten most important things you would want to say or do? Then ask, “What does John 19:25–27 reveal about what was important to Jesus?”

Distribute copies of the “Perspectives” exercise from the activity page. Give groups time to combine their responses.