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David C Cook Editorial

Jun 08

In the World–June 14, 2026

By "In the World"

Download “In the World” for June 14, 2026 here.

HOPE FULFILLED FOR THE RELEASE OF PRISONERS

Two French citizens, held in an Iranian prison for the last three years, were recently released and returned to Paris. The couple, Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, traveled to Iran as tourists in 2022. While there, they were arrested as state hostages, convicted as spies, and held in Evin prison in Tehran. In April of this year, the French government denounced all charges and joyfully welcomed the couple home. Ms. Kohler expressed bold hope as she talked with reporters in Paris. The couple’s situation required persistent hope, for resolution had to come from the outside. They had no control of their circumstances and could not rescue themselves.

HOPE FULFILLED FOR THE GIFT OF A CHILD

Hannah is one of two wives of an Israelite man. She grieves because she has no children, while the other wife has many. Peninnah (the other wife) takes advantage of Hannah’s vulnerability and pokes Hannah to grief. She brings her sorrow to the Lord and vows that, if God grants her a son, she will devote him to priestly service. The priest observing this misunderstands Hannah’s wordless, emotional prayer. But he soon learns that Hannah is pouring out her soul to God, asking for a resolution to a situation that is beyond her ability to change. He asks God to fulfill her request. And once home, Hannah conceives and gives birth to a son, whom she names Samuel. As promised, she and her husband bring Samuel to the temple for training and service.

  1. How do you handle seasons of agonizing waiting?
  2. What impossible situation do you need to take to God?
  3. Who might assist you—through support, prayer, blessing, or advocacy—in painful circumstances?

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:

Jun 08

June 14, 2026: Hannah, the Persistent Supplicant (1 Samuel 1:9–20, 25)

By Teacher Tips

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

Distribute copies of the “Two Prayers” exercise from the activity page, which you can download here. Ask students to work in groups for eight or ten minutes to complete as indicated. Then ask volunteers to share their responses.

To encourage personal application:

Distribute copies of the “My Prayer” exercise from the activity page. Ask students to complete it as indicated.

Ask for a volunteer to close class with prayer.

Jun 01

In the World–June 7, 2026

By "In the World"

Download “In the World” for June 7, 2026 here.

BENCH PLAYERS STEP UP

The NBA playoffs are in full swing, with sixteen teams competing for the NBA title and the Larry O’Brien trophy. But injuries to key players have reshaped several teams’ paths to the championship. The spotlight has shifted to reserves and bench players. During the first round of the playoffs, after two starters for the Minnesota Timberwolves were injured, reserve guard Ayo Dosunmu scored a career-high 43 points in a win over Denver. In the Western Conference Finals, guard Alex Caruso came off the bench for Oklahoma City and made history, becoming the first player to record more than 40 points and 10 three-pointers over a two-game span. Teams rely on their stars to lead, but the strongest teams also know when to trust their role players. Sometimes an overlooked player becomes the one to step up.

TWO WOMEN STEP UP

Under Sisera’s military leadership, the Canaanites oppressed the tribes of Israel for years. Deborah, the prophet and judge of Israel, summons Barak and informs him that God wants him to assemble an army to confront Sisera. Although God promises victory, Barak hesitates and agrees to go only if Deborah accompanies him. She agrees, but prophesies that the honor of victory will pass instead to a woman. After the conflict, Sisera flees to the tent of Jael, the wife of a Kenite leader. While he sleeps, she drives a tent peg through his head, killing him. An overlooked woman—the wife of a local tribal leader—is the one who receives honor for Israel’s deliverance.

  1. When have you seen a team or group succeed because an overlooked person stepped up?
  2. Why does God often work through people who are not obvious leaders?
  3. What encouragement could you give to an unexpected leader this week?

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:

Jun 01

June 7, 2026: Deborah, the Dutiful Judge (Judges 4:4–10, 14, 21–22)

By Teacher Tips

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

Distribute copies of the “Look at the Whole Chapter” exercise from the activity page, which you can download here. Have learners work in pairs to complete as indicated.

Ask your class to return to whole-group discussion and answer these questions: 1–What was God’s role in the military victory? 2–What was Deborah’s role in the victory? 3–What was Barak’s role? Then challenge learners to complete the following sentences with a partner: 1–“Deborah showed her submission to God by …”2–“God showed his power through Deborah by…” 3–“Deborah served her people by …”

To encourage personal application:

Distribute copies of the “God is Calling” exercise from the activity page. Have learners complete it individually in a minute or less before discussing their conclusions in a small group.

May 25

May 31, 2026: Living in Christian Community (Matthew 28:18–20; Hebrews 10:22–25)

By Teacher Tips

To begin the session:

Print copies of the “Act Like It” facilitator’s page from the activity page, which you can download here. Distribute one word to each participant and direct each participant to complete the activity as indicated. Conclude the activity by discussing how each person’s role was revealed.

Transition into Bible study by saying, “Often, our behavior and appearance signal key aspects of our identity to others. This is also true for our Christian faith. How can people recognize that we are followers of Jesus? In today’s lesson, let’s explore the attributes that reveal the comprehensive life of a disciple of Christ.”

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

Distribute copies of the “Keep Moving” exercise from the activity page. Have participants work in small groups to complete as indicated before sharing their responses with the whole class.

May 25

In the World–May 31, 2026

By "In the World"

Download “In the World” for May 31, 2026 here.

CELEBRATION FOR THE NATION

In 2026, the US marks two hundred and fifty years since the nation’s founding. In anticipation of the summer festivities, a recent “Rededicate 250” event was held on the National Mall near the Capitol building. It was billed as a time to worship, pray, and fellowship as Christians. Attendees were specifically encouraged to express gratitude for nation’s freedoms and to seek divine guidance and blessing for the country’s future. The event garnered a variety of reactions from Christians—some calling the event an appropriate response, others showing concern for the mixing of faith and politics. Discussions online and from public-facing Christians revolved around the definition of a Christian nation and what it means to follow the mission of Jesus.

MISSION FOR THE CHURCH

After rising from the dead and appearing to many people, it is time for Jesus to return to heaven. He leaves the disciples as His messengers to grow the mission field. They are to make more disciples from every nation—going, baptizing, and teaching. Jesus promises to be with His followers, even after ascending to heaven. Later the writer of Hebrews encourages Christians to go before the throne of God as a people who have been redeemed. Through faith, hope, and love, we too can uphold the ministry of Jesus. And to patiently await Christ’s return, we need the encouragement found in one another.

  1. What about your country makes you grateful?
  2. What about your country makes you want to see change?
  3. How are you encouraging other Christians to be faithful to the mission of Jesus?

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:

May 19

May 24, 2026: Christian Rhythms of Life (Mark 2:18–28)

By Teacher Tips

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

Distribute copies of the “A Time for Everything” exercise from the activity page, which you can download here. Instruct students to complete the activity in small groups. Give several minutes for groups to complete the worksheet as indicated, or divide groups in half and ask some to focus on questions A–D and others on E–H. Then lead the whole class in a discussion about their responses.

To encourage personal application:

Distribute copies of the “To Fast or Feast?” exercise on the activity page to small groups to complete as indicated. Allow a few minutes at the beginning of the next class for volunteers to share how they practiced fasting, feasting, working, and resting throughout the previous week.

May 19

In the World–May 24

By "In the World"

Download “In the World” for May 24, 2026 here.

HUMAN-CENTRIC RULES ABOUT AI

The growth of generative AI continues to drive changes in many industries. In response, the Golden Globes recently announced a policy shift regarding how they will handle awards in January 2027. Since it is now possible to de-age an actor’s appearance, to dub the performance for a different language, or to substitute a computer-generated representation of an actor in place of a real performance, producers must disclose any use of AI. Some uses of AI will still be considered for awards—those uses that do not “replace the core creative contributions of human talent.” The decision is meant to protect human creativity and human performance.

HUMAN-CENTRIC RULES ABOUT SABBATH

A group of Pharisees and disciples of John the Baptist question Jesus about Sabbath practices. Jesus says that fasting is for a later time, when He is taken away. He uses two illustrations to show that His ministry is something new and different. Later, the Pharisees see Jesus’ disciples picking grain and accuse them of not keeping the Sabbath. Jesus counters by reminding them that David and his men ate consecrated bread when they were starving. God intended the Sabbath for the good of people; God didn’t create people to rigidly observe the Sabbath. And Jesus claims the authority to know best!

  1. How do you react to the prospect of AI-generated performances in movies or shows?
  2. When has the rigid application of rules harmed you or someone around you?
  3. How does Jesus show that rules around the Sabbath take human needs into account?

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:

 

May 12

May 17, 2026: Christian Manner of Justice (Deuteronomy 24:14–21; Ephesians 6:5–9; 1 Timothy 6:17–19)

By Teacher Tips

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

Distribute copies of the “Remember, Remember, Remember” exercise from the activity page, which you can download here. Have learners complete it individually in a minute or less before sharing responses with a partner. After calling time, reconvene the class and ask volunteers to present their conclusions.

Distribute copies of the “Tale of Two Rulers” activity from the activity page. Have learners work in pairs to complete as indicated.

 

May 12

In the World–May 17, 2026

By "In the World"

Download “In the World” for May 17, 2026 here.

COFFEEHOUSE RECONSIDERS BONUSES AND TIPS

In a recent revision to their corporate policy, the Starbucks Coffee Company has announced a new rewards program meant to give employees a share in their employer’s success. The coffee chain has always offered benefits that go beyond the normal fast-food chain, but the new “Back to Starbucks” program (meant to revitalize the chain) will included changes for baristas and supervisors. A new bonus structure will layer on top of existing pay and benefits, triggered when a coffeehouse “meets and exceeds certain sales, operational and customer service targets.” The plan also includes more ways that employees can receive tips—now that so many transactions are conducted through electronic payments. By July 2026, these changes should be rolling out to most locations.

GOD’S MESSAGE FOR ECONOMIC JUSTICE

In the first context, Moses is giving a sermon to those about to enter the land of promise. Any employer must pay the agreed wages, and punishment for any crimes should fall on only the responsible individual—not entire families. Anyone loaning money should make it easy for the other person to pay it back. And agricultural workers should deliberately leave extra food in their fields that any hungry person shall be allowed to eat. Much later, in the first-century Christian church context, Paul addresses relations between members of a household: God is the Lord and master of all, without favoritism. Everyone should be rich in good deeds; willingness to share with others is like credit from heaven, an eternal treasure.

  1. How do you decide how much to leave as a tip in different situations?
  2. How can and should employers reward their top-performing employees?
  3. In what ways are you laying up treasures in heaven, by observing and responding to the economic needs of others?

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:

May 07

In the World–May 10, 2026

By "In the World"

Download “In the World” for May 10, 2026 here.

WORK ETHIC FOR THE TEAM

The North Eugene High School boys’ baseball team is having its strongest season in years, starting 11–4 on the year and 5–2 in league play. “I’m a pessimist by nature when it comes to this stuff,” says head coach Kenny Niles, “but I think we’re as good as anybody in 5A baseball right now.” Niles attributes the team’s turnaround to the attitude of his players. One way this shows up is in the work the players have done between games to maintain their baseball field. When the field was in need of serious help, the coach held a work party for the team. “Guys showed up in their Wranglers and cowboy boots and went to work,” Niles says. “It’s been a long time since North Eugene has had this type of kids. These families get it; the players come with some work ethic.”

WORK ETHIC FOR GOD

God created humanity as gardeners. They are like the Creator: giving order and tending to creation in their own capacity. God’s work of redemption continued in Jesus, and our productive work continues for the good of others. Later Paul writes to answer questions from a church he founded in Thessalonica. They were mixed up about the ongoing purpose of work, and even though Paul was a leader, he showed this leadership by working with his hands. As we await Christ’s return, there is work to keep us busy.

  1. What role does work ethic play in someone’s life and in the lives of others?
  2. When have you had a different attitude toward work than you do now? What changed?
  3. How would you define the primary “work” of the Christian?

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:

May 07

May 10, 2026: Work as Christian Duty (Genesis 2:15; Exodus 20:9; John 5:17; 9:42; Acts 20:33–35; Thessalonians 3:6–12)

By Teacher Tips

To begin the session:

Distribute copies of the “What Are You?” exercise from the activity page, which you can download here. Have learners complete it individually in a minute or less before submitting responses to you. Shuffle and redistribute papers back to each participant. Ask them to take turns guessing the job their sheet describes. Finish the activity by asking, “What conclusions can we draw about the workers in our class?”

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

Distribute the “All Kinds of Work” exercise from the activity page. Have small groups complete it as indicated before reviewing responses in a whole-class discussion.

Dec 10

In the World–December 15, 2024

By "In the World"

Download “In the World” for December 15, 2024 here.

PREPARING THE HUNT

Fantasy and story lover Jon Collins-Black has hidden five treasure chests across the United States, and the hunt is on. In “There’s Treasure Inside,” Jon uses a series of clues and hints to guide readers to the treasure chests, which are full of collectibles and prizes worth around two million dollars. But this treasure hunt took preparation—from testing his clues to participating in auctions for historical relics, Collins-Black worked hard to create a nationwide treasure hunt that would be accessible for all who wish to participate. While no prizes have been won so far, people from across the country are using online platforms to share ideas, theories, and updates about the hunt as they prepare to find the treasure.

PREPARING FOR CHRIST

Before Zechariah’s son, John, is born, an angel of the Lord tells Zechariah that John will prepare the people for Christ. John is born, and Zechariah praises God, for he will set his people free. Zechariah is filled with the Spirit and prophesies about Jesus’ coming and John’s role in preparing the way. John will teach the Jewish people that they can be saved only through God’s forgiveness of sins. Zechariah worships God and points out that he has not abandoned his people but is instead providing them with a Savior.

  1. When has preparation enabled you to experience something great?
  2. Why is preparation important?
  3. How does John prepare his listeners for Christ’s coming?

Additional Resources

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.