David C Cook Editorial

Download “In the World” for September 24, 2023 here.

VIOLENCE FOR THE GROUP

This September 11 saw the release of research examining why people commit violence in support of a group. Joanna Lindström, PhD Researcher in Psychology at Stockholm University, and her team found that some people—but not all—who saw their group as “unjustly disadvantaged” felt justified in the use of violence for their cause. Lindström’s team wanted to know why some in this group called for violence and some did not. They found that individuals who felt superior to others and entitled to privileges were most likely to think their group was unfairly disadvantaged. This held true even if their group was not actually “structurally disadvantaged.” It seems that feeling superior may be linked to a tendency to justify violence.

VIOLENCE FOR THE LAW

Today’s passage describes two events in Jesus’ life when the Jewish religious leaders took up stones to commit violence to carry out their interpretation of God’s Law. In one, they sought to “purge” Israel of the sin of adultery, and in the other, they sought to punish Jesus over his claim to have existed prior to Abraham. In both cases, they felt righteous and justified in attempting to kill someone else. And in both cases, Jesus prevented their ungodly violence.

1. Under what conditions, if any, would you consider violence justifiable?
2. Why do some people feel unjustly disadvantaged even when most observers would not consider them disadvantaged at all?
3. What do you think of the claim that non-violence is a core teaching of Christianity?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Praise Him! Praise Him! Jesus, Our Blessed Redeemer!” by Ernie Haas & Signature Sound
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Corner” by Elikem Kofi x Rehmahz
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Here Is Our Surrender” by Mitch and Steph Wong
• Christian Study Library Commentary on John 8:1–12
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 8
• Center for Excellence in Preaching Commentary on John 8:48–59

Download “In the World” for September 17, 2023 here.

A RELIABLE CHAMPION

American gymnast Simone Biles is again on top of her sport. Late last month, Biles won her eighth all-around title at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships, breaking a record that had held for nearly ninety years. Two years ago, Biles pulled out of the team finals in the Tokyo Olympics after suffering from “the twisties,” a mental phenomenon that affects a gymnast’s perception about their position in the air. Soon afterward, she and other gymnasts testified about being sexually abused by the team doctor. After two years away from competition, it appears the world’s most decorated gymnastics athlete—winner of twenty-five medals at world championships, including eighteen golds—is back.

A RELIABLE MESSENGER

One year during Jesus’ ministry, he went to Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles. Some Jewish leaders challenged his teaching, citing the fact that he hadn’t been educated in their formal system. Jesus said his teaching was reliable because he wasn’t seeking his own fame but only God’s glory. Those who are committed to accurately relaying the message of the one who sent them are reliable messengers, he said. This was in contrast to the Jewish leaders, who were perverting the message of Moses for their own gain.

1. When have you or someone else made a tremendous recovery?
2. What does Jesus mean by someone who “speaks on their own” (or “speaketh of himself”)?
3. How can we be sure we are seeking God’s glory only and not speaking on our own?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “We Are Standing on Holy Ground” by Sandi Patty
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Emmaus Cypher” by Common Hymnal
• Music Video, Contemporary: “All I Have Is Christ” by Anchor Hymns
• Guzik’s Sermon on John 7:14–36
• Bible Project Resources on John’s Gospel
• Bible.org Commentary on John 7

Download “In the World” for September 10, 2023 here.

THE LETTER OF THE GUN LAW

Last month in Utah, state lawmakers called officers from the Salt Lake City Police Department to explain why they had suspended one of their own officers for trying to obey a new law at the city’s airport. The law states that travelers should be ticketed if they try to bring a firearm through security—unless the person brought the gun unintentionally or had forgotten it was in a carry-on bag. In that case, the person should not be ticketed (but still be disallowed from bringing the gun through). The SLCPD preferred to ticket everyone who brought a gun to the airport, no matter what, choosing a “letter of the law” reading of the legislation. The suspended officer had been disciplined by his superiors for trying to follow the intent of the law and not writing a ticket for someone who had accidentally brought a firearm to security. The lawmakers wanted to know why the police were violating what they felt was the clear intent of the new law.

THE INTENT OF GOD’S LAW

In today’s passage, some Pharisees tested whether Jesus would violate the letter of the commandment to keep the Sabbath holy. They brought a man in need of healing before Jesus on the Sabbath to see if he would heal him and thus, in their minds, violate the Sabbath by doing work. Jesus did heal the man, and then he dashed their efforts to trap him by showing God’s original intent for the commandment—and by showing that even they would “work” on the Sabbath to save a child or a cow in a well. So how could he not save this son of Abraham, even on a Sabbath?

1. Why might someone prefer a letter-of-the-law interpretation over the spirit of the law?
2. What does it say that the Pharisees took for granted Jesus’ miraculous healing power and concentrated instead on questions about the Sabbath?
3. How can we know if we have begun obeying the letter of an instruction in the Bible and straying from its intent?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “There Is a Name I Love to Hear” by Lor
• Music Video, Multicultural: “There Is a Name I Love to Hear” by Lor
• Music Video, Contemporary: “There Is a Name I Love to Hear” by Lor
• Guzik’s Commentary on Luke 14
• Bible Outlines Commentary on Luke 14:1–6
• Bible.org Commentary on Luke 14

Download “In the World” for September 3, 2023 here.

TRAGIC MISTAKEN IDENTITY

In San Francisco last month, a family that had already been touched by tragedy was struck again. In 2008, in a case of mistaken identity, three members of the Tony Bologna family were killed in gang violence. Tony and two of his sons, Michael and Matthew, were murdered when Edwin Ramos, an MS-13 gang member, thought one of the sons was a member of a rival gang. Left behind were Tony’s third son, Andrew, and Tony’s wife, Danielle, and daughter, Francesca. But last month, Danielle and Francesca were killed when a car veered into their lane on a highway. Now Andrew Bologna has had to bury every member of his family. A GoFundMe page has been set up to allow people to provide assistance to him.

SINFUL FALSE IDENTITY

In today’s passage, the Pharisees came under the Lord’s discipline for hypocrisy. They presented a false identity of being pure and righteous, carrying their supposed love for God to the extent of giving him a tenth of everything—even their garden herbs—and yet their hearts were full of sin and greed. Jesus exposed their façade and called them to make their true selves line up with the righteous identity they showed the world.

1. When have you or someone you know been touched by false or mistaken identity?
2. Why is it sometimes tempting to present a more positive, but not entirely accurate, version of ourselves to others?
3. When has someone been honest with you about their faults?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Majesty”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Freedom” by Brandon Love
• Music Video, Contemporary: “In Jesus’ Name” by Katy Nichole
• Guzik’s Commentary on Luke 11
• R.C. Sproul on Luke 11 and Hypocrisy
• IVP New Testament Commentary on Luke 11:37–54

Download “In the World” for August 27, 2023 here.

UNTIL THE AXIS ENEMY IS DEFEATED

The movie Oppenheimer (which we are not endorsing) tells the story of Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer, who led the American effort to build an atomic bomb before the Germans could do so. Historians have suggested that the US government needed Oppenheimer and his team to succeed in order for the Allies to win World War II, but in the decade afterward, he was not needed and was cast into suspicion as a Communist, as the World War ended and the Cold War began. For himself, Oppenheimer wished to turn control of all atomic weapons over to some neutral body like the United Nations to attempt to prevent a nuclear arms race.

UNTIL THE LAST ENEMY IS DEFEATED

Jesus Christ is eternal and will reign forever. His mission on earth was to be not only deliverer but also conqueror, with the task of defeating sin and the devil and reconciling humanity with God. In our passage today, Paul explains that Jesus’ role as God’s war commander would continue until the very last enemy, death, was defeated. When his task is complete, he will lay aside that role, bow to his Father, and rejoin him in eternal majesty.

1. What do you think of the arguments for and against the use of nuclear weapons in WW2?
2. In what ways would the world change if all nuclear weapons disappeared today?
3. How do we reconcile the idea of Jesus as equal with God the Father and the fact that he submits himself to his Father, as seen in today’s passage?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “We Will Glorify” by Twila Paris
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Satisfy” by Glochi and Marizu
• Music Video, Contemporary: “You Make Me Brave” by Bethel Music
• Guzik’s Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15
• Coffman’s Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15
• Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15:20–28 from BibleOutlines

Download “In the World” for August 20, 2023 here.

RISING TO HIGHER AUTHORITY

When the top-ranking Marine—the commandant of the Marine Corps—retires or needs to be replaced, the successor must be sanctioned by the U.S. Senate. The elevation of someone to the Corps’ top post, along with nearly 270 other military nominations and promotions, is being blocked by a senator who wishes to bring attention to some of the Pentagon’s policies. Despite the obstacle, the officer deemed most likely to step into the commandant’s position—Gen. Eric Smith, assistant commandant—has this month written a letter giving direction for all marines. “Until the Senate confirms our 39th Commandant, this guidance will serve as our reference point,” Smith wrote. “What I require is that when decisions are made, we move out as one to attack our problems together.”

WAITING FOR HIGHER AUTHORITY

The Christians in Corinth had evidently passed judgment on how Paul was conducting his ministry, perhaps even accusing him of having sinister motives for his actions. Paul responded that he didn’t really mind what they thought of him—or even what he thought of himself—but deferred all judgment to the Lord Jesus. Paul answered to God, not to humans, and the Lord’s judgment would reveal not only Paul’s motives but also their own. He would be exonerated, and he did not shrink back from exercising the authority entrusted to him as a servant of Christ.

1. What is a time when you approved of someone in authority?
2. When have you made a decision based not on what people wanted in the moment but on the wishes of the higher authority you were going to have to report to?
3. How can we balance our responsibility as Christians with the sometimes-ungodly desires and demands of our culture?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “I Love You, Lord + I Exalt Thee” by Gateway Worship
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Over” by Bridge Music
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Holy Place” by Faithful
• Bible Project Video Summary of 1 Corinthians
• Working Preacher Commentary on 1 Corinthians 4:1-5
• Guzik’s Commentary on 1 Corinthians 4

Download “In the World” for August 13, 2023 here.

REMOVING OBSTACLES TO HOUSING

Late last month, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced $85 million in “innovative competitive grants for communities to identify and remove barriers to affordable housing production and preservation.” Government entities at the local and state level can apply for grants ranging from $1 million to $10 million to help them improve zoning restrictions, housing policies, and the availability of affordable new homes and the preservation of existing ones. “HUD recognizes that communities have unique housing challenges,” said HUD Secretary Marcia L. Fudge in announcing the new grants. “Today, we are acting to increase the supply of affordable housing, which is crucial to lowering housing costs.”

REMOVING OBSTACLES TO FAITH

Paul wrote to the believers in Rome that they should be sensitive in their exercise of freedoms so as not to offend or upset other, especially new, Christians. For example, eating food dedicated to idols could cause some brothers and sisters to question their faith. Instead, mature Christians could exercise some of their freedoms in different circumstances to avoid putting obstacles in the way of people coming to faith. Better to temporarily not eat something than to eat it in such a way that it makes someone stumble.

1. If you had a $10 million grant to deal with some housing issue, how would you use it?
2. What’s something about the Christian life that an unbeliever might not understand?
3. How can we be careful that an unbeliever or less mature Christian will not be harmed by our actions?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “My Jesus, I Love Thee” by Darlene Zschech
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Stranger” by K. Anthony
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Stranger” by K. Anthony
• Guzik’s Commentary on Romans 14
• Bible.org Commentary on Romans 14
• Coffman’s Commentary on Romans 14

Download “In the World” for August 6, 2023 here.

CONDITIONS FOR BAD FRUIT

South Carolina peach farmers are in a bad way this year. A combination of an early spring and hard freezes in March have cost them as much as seventy percent of their crop. What they have managed to harvest are mostly small, “button” peaches, which can’t be sold at market, or have pits that are difficult for machinery to remove when processing for fruit cups. “When you lose 70% of a crop,” says Ross Williams, chief operating officer of post-harvest operations at Titan Farms, “it’s difficult to be able to make ends meet at the end of the year.” Farmers are trying to keep relations with major retailers intact by providing as many peaches as they can and hoping for better in the future. “Next year, hopefully when we do have a full crop,” says Williams, “we don’t want to have missed out on a year with that retailer.”

CONDITIONS FOR GOOD FRUIT

This week’s passage includes Paul’s lists of deeds of the flesh and fruit of the Spirit. While it is tempting to think of the fruit of the Spirit as qualities we can work on and develop in our lives, Paul teaches that these things simply “grow” in us as we walk by the Spirit. We can’t make ourselves have more love, joy, or peace, but we can create conditions in our heart for those things to appear on their own by the working of the Lord.

1. What experience, if any, do you have with farming?
2. If you could have more of any fruit of the Spirit, which one would it be, and why?
3. In what sense are the deeds of the flesh another sort of spiritual fruit?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Less Is More” by Gaetan Judd
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Never Leave” by Red Rocks Worship
• Guzik’s Commentary on Galatians 5
• Jesus Walk Commentary on Galatians 5:22–26
• Bible Background Commentary from Dr. Craig Keener on Galatians 5:22–23

Download “In the World” for July 30, 2023 here.

WORTH EVERYTHING IN THE WALLET

Shohei Ohtani is an extremely talented Major League Baseball player for the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani, originally from Japan, is setting records both as a batter and a pitcher this year. And he is nearing a time of free agency, when the pocketbooks of many MLB team owners are expected to come all the way open. Los Angeles Dodgers’ player Freddie Freeman calls Ohtani a “unicorn” whose new contract may shatter the previous high amount of over $426 million. Several people have suggested the new deal could reach $600 million. When asked what he would pay to sign Ohtani if he were an owner, Baltimore Orioles’ center-fielder Austin Hays said, “As much money as I have. I’m giving him everything that I’ve got.”

WORTH EVERYTHING YOU OWN

Today’s passage includes some striking parables in which Jesus urged believers to value the kingdom of heaven so dearly that they would be willing to give everything away in order to obtain it. Others may not understand it, but he or she is no fool who uses what is temporary to obtain what is eternal and who trades earthly belongings for heavenly treasure.

1. If you could own any sports team in the world, what would it be, and why?
2. When have you realized that you would pay everything you owned to gain, change, purchase, or prevent something?
3. How can we live out our commitment to the kingdom over the things of this life?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “His Name Is Wonderful” by the Imperials
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Take Over” by Common Hymnal
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Take Over” by Common Hymnal
• How to Study Jesus’ Parables
• Working Preacher Commentary on Matthew 13:31–33, 44–52
• org Commentary on Matthew 13:44–46

Download “In the World” for July 23, 2023 here.

SEPARATING OUT THE PLASTIC

A 22-year-old Irishman has taken third place in the Young Inventors Prize contest in Europe for his ingenious method of removing microplastics from water. The UN estimates that there are more than fifty-one trillion microplastic particles in the seas, a crisis that affects our food chain and, ultimately, us. Fionn Ferreira’s method mixes seawater with ferrofluid, a magnetic liquid mixture that binds to microplastic particles. A magnet draws both the ferrofluid and the plastics out of the water, removing eighty-five percent of the particles in a single pass. The plastics can be recycled, the ferrofluid can be reused, and the water is rendered safe. “This prestigious award,” Ferreira says, is “a profound acknowledgment of the urgent need to combat the devastating impact of microplastics on our planet’s water systems.”

SEPARATING OUT THE WEEDS

In Jesus’ parable of the wheat and the tares (weeds), a field where good seed was planted gets sabotaged by an enemy, who sows weeds alongside the good seed. The workers soon spot the weeds and ask the owner if they should begin weeding. But the owner instructs them to let both crops grow together, and they’ll sort one from the other in the harvest. Jesus later reveals that this is a metaphor for the people of God’s kingdom and the people of the devil, who share the earth. They will continue to live side by side until they are separated in the judgment.

1. As a steward of the earth, what do you feel is the most pressing concern in the natural environment?
2. What do you think Jesus means by the children of the devil?
3. If Jesus is going to sort out these two groups, what role does evangelism or missions play?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “All Honor” by Ron Kenoly
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Spirit Fall” by New Wine Worship
• Working Preacher Commentary on Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43
• Crosswalk Commentary on the Parable of Wheat and Tares
• GotQuestions Commentary on the Parable of Wheat and Tares

Download “In the World” for July 16, 2023 here.

THE RIGHT NUTRIENTS FOR THE SOIL

In a global first, the soil in Northern Ireland’s farms is receiving free testing by the government. The massive scheme, developed by Rachel Cassidy, a scientist in the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute in Belfast, is designed to level the playing field for all farmers in Northern Ireland. By making the assessment free, all farmers can receive the comprehensive soil sampling and analysis of their fields, plus detailed erosion maps of their land. The goal is to save farmers money and improve their efficiency, especially against a backdrop of soaring costs for feed, fertilizer, and fuel. The larger goal of the scheme is to protect the environment by reducing the risk of excess fertilizer polluting nearby waterways.

THE RIGHT KIND OF SOIL

Jesus’ parable of the soils continues to resonate across the centuries. Nearly everyone can relate to the different kinds of soils: hard-packed, shallow, weedy, or receptive. Though the farmer casts the seed far and wide, dropping good seed on all sorts of soils and hearts, all it takes is a few spots of good soil, with receptive hearts—and the few spots that have truly receptive hearts will produce a tremendous harvest.

1. What is the best government program you’ve ever heard of?
2. How can we develop a heart of good soil that produces such a plentiful harvest in the Lord?
3. What connection can we make, if any, between this parable and the current exodus of many young people from the church?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Soon and Very Soon, We Are Going to See the King” by Andrae Crouch
• Music Video, Multicultural: “In This Room” by Geoffrey Golden
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Good Lord” by David Leonard
• Coffman’s Commentary on Matthew 13
• Rethink Commentary on the Sower and the Soils
• Working Preacher Commentary on Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23

Download “In the World” for July 9, 2023 here.

A REGIME DIVIDED AGAINST ITSELF

Late last month saw one of the most bizarre episodes of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Putin employs a mercenary army called the Wagner Group, commanded by Yevgeny Prigozhin, who has an ongoing power struggle with Moscow’s military brass. In late June, Prigozhin accused his rivals of firing rockets at Wagner Group troops. He took his tanks and troops off the war front and turned toward Russia itself, rolling rapidly toward Moscow. Then, through negotiations behind the scenes, Prigozhin abruptly halted his tank columns and diverted to Belarus. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky triumphantly declared, “Everyone who chooses the path of evil destroys himself…. Russia’s weakness is obvious…. And the longer Russia keeps its troops and mercenaries on our land, the more chaos, pain, and problems it will have for itself later.”

A KINGDOM DIVIDED AGAINST ITSELF

When Jesus delivered a demon-possessed man who had not been able to speak or see, the people were astonished—and the Pharisees felt jealous and threatened. They claimed that Jesus was only able to command demons because he used Satan’s power to do so. Jesus responded that the devil would never divide his forces and weaken his kingdom by letting Satan fight against Satan.

1. What are your feelings about the war in Ukraine and the divisions within Russian top leadership?
2. When people are feeling jealous or threatened, what are they likely to say or do?
3. In this passage, Jesus talks about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit—what do you think that means?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “I Come to the Garden Alone”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Intentional” by Travis Greene
• Music Video, Contemporary: “A Thousand Shores” by Citizens
• Bible.org Commentary on Matthew 12:22–37
• Guzik’s Commentary on Matthew 12
• IVP New Testament Commentary on Matthew 12

Download “In the World” for July 2, 2023 here.

THE CROWN JEWELS OF SCOTLAND

Every year, the monarch of the United Kingdom pays a week-long visit to Scotland to celebrate Scottish culture, community, and contributions. This year is special because the UK has a new king and queen. King Charles and Queen Camilla are scheduled to be Edinburgh this week, where amidst much pomp and a twenty-one-gun salute, Charles will be presented with “The Honours of Scotland,” England’s oldest crown jewels. The first monarch to be crowned with it was Mary Queen of Scots in 1543. The crown and accompanying scepter and sword of state are made of gold, silver, and precious gems.

THE CROWN JEWELS OF GOD

In today’s passage, we study Zechariah’s prophecy of rejoicing for the Jewish exiles returning to Jerusalem. This chapter contains the messianic prophecy about the king coming to Jerusalem mounted on the foal of a donkey. Zechariah also says that God’s people will glitter in Jerusalem like jewels in a crown.

1. What royal ceremony anywhere in the world would you love to be present to witness, if any?
2. While that celebration is going on in Scotland, Americans will be celebrating Independence Day. What are your plans?
3. Which biblical metaphor or word picture, like today’s simile of jewels in a crown, is your favorite?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Jesus Is All the World to Me”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “In a Little While” by Nashville Life Music
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Now to Jesus” by Philippa Hanna
• Guzik’s Commentary on Zechariah 9
• JFB Commentary on Zechariah 9
• Bible Hub Commentaries on Zechariah 9:16

Download “In the World” for June 25, 2023 here.

CONVICTION OVERTURNED

Back in 2003, someone robbed a Walgreens store at gunpoint in Dania Beach, Florida. A witness tentatively identified 33-year-old Leonard Cure as someone who might’ve been the robber. There was evidence that Cure was miles away at the time of the crime, but a jury nevertheless convicted him, and he was given a lifetime sentence plus ten years. This month, however, the state attorney’s office got the entire case thrown out, and Cure was not only released from prison after sixteen years but was also granted record compensation of $817,000 and 120 hours of college tuition and fees. “No amount of money will get those years back for Mr. Cure or give him peace,” said Broward State Attorney Harold Pryor, “but it is a small gesture that recognizes Mr. Cure was wronged.”

PUNISHMENT RESCINDED

After years spent in Babylonian exile because of the rebellion and idolatry of the people of Judea, God promised through Zephaniah to bring them home. The Lord announced his intention to cancel his punishment, cease his rebuke, and deal with any who had oppressed them. God’s discipline of his people was not without end.

1. What’s the worst case of injustice you know of? How should things have gone instead?
2. When have you felt the Lord’s discipline?
3. This passage depicts the Lord rejoicing over his people with singing. What do you think that means?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Were You There?” by Johnny Cash
• Music Video, Multicultural: “You Are Unrivaled” by Noel Robinson
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Holy” by Steffany Gretzinger
• Guzik’s Commentary on Zephaniah 3
• JFB Commentary on Zephaniah 3
• Bible Hub Commentaries on Zephaniah 3:17

Download “In the World” for June 18, 2023 here.

COMING OUT OF A COMA

British eleven-year-old Tom White was struck by a police van this month and left in critical condition. The boy spent nearly a week on life support and then began waking from his coma. As his family awaited Tom’s full awakening, when they could find out his long-term prognosis, they launched a Facebook page to collect videos and notes from well-wishers. Among the many contributors was WBC heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury. Fury’s personal video shows the British boxer saying, “Keep fighting, Tom! All the best. Get recovered. See you soon, buddy. God bless.” When Tom comes to his senses, God willing, he will have many such treasures to discover.

COMING TO THEIR SENSES

The Babylonian exile had taught the Jewish people a costly lesson about turning away from God to idols. The Lord spoke through the prophet Ezekiel, promising to gather the Israelites from all the nations they’d been scattered to and to bring them back to their own land, where they would be united again and ruled by a king from the line of David. All these benefits awaited them if they would come to their senses and put their idolatry behind them forever.

1. Why do you think even busy celebrities go out of their way to help young people sometimes?
2. What was your most memorable Father’s Day?
3. When did you realize that you needed to put something behind you?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Father, Lord of All Creation” 
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Papa Woo (I Have a Father)” by African Gospel Singers
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Papa Woo (I Have a Father)” by African Gospel Singers
• Guzik’s Commentary on Ezekiel 37
• Bible Hub Commentaries on Ezekiel 37:21
• David L. Cooper’s Commentary on Ezekiel 37

Download “In the World” for June 11, 2023 here.

A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR 3D PRINTING AND SPACEFLIGHT

A few weeks ago, Terran 1, the world’s first full-sized 3D-printed rocket, blasted off from Cape Canaveral, Florida. It was a maiden test flight of the rocket prototype, which at the time was the largest 3D-printed object in the world, at 110 feet tall and 7.5 feet wide. The unmanned rocket launched and successfully endured Max-Q, the moment of most intense vibration during ascent, proving that 3D-printed rocketry is robust and viable. The vehicle had an “anomaly” later in the flight, causing it to fail to reach orbit. But as a test flight, it was highly successful, and the manufacturer, Relativity Space, incorporated lessons learned and is already moving to its next-stage prototype, the Terran R rocket, and sees a bright future for 3D-printed space technology.

A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR ISRAEL AND JERUSALEM

In our passage today, the Lord paints a picture of a day when God’s people will live in complete peace and joy. Children will not die shortly after childbirth in this future, and lifespans will be such that if someone doesn’t reach 100 years of age, it will seem very strange indeed. They will build houses and live in them, and they will have such a measure of peace that even the wolf and the lamb will dwell together in harmony. Such will the future be for those who belong to the Lord.

1. If someone gave you the opportunity to ride a rocket into orbit, what would you say?
2. What would perfect peace and harmony look like to you?
3. How does knowing what heaven may be like change your life on earth?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Jesus, What a Friend for Sinners”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “He’ll Come Through” by Freddy Washington
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Send the Rain” by Songs from the Soil
• Stan Mast’s Commentary on Isaiah 65:17–25
• Bible Hub Commentaries on Isaiah 65:17
• Bible.org Commentary on Isaiah 65

Download “In the World” for June 4, 2023 here.

VETERAN ESCORTED BY POLICE

Last month, just before his 95th birthday, WWII veteran John Powell got a special ride through his home city. Back in 1945, young John Powell turned 17 and promptly enlisted for the Navy. But on May 15 of this year, he rode through downtown Greenfield, Indiana, in a 1948 MG TC Roadster convertible escorted by police and cheered by all who saw the little parade pass by. Representatives from the Greenfield Veterans Honor Guard presented Powell with an American flag, and the town’s mayor presented him with the city’s Distinguished Citizen Award. “I’m grateful,” said Powell as he shook the mayor’s hand. “There are no words.”

ISRAEL ESCORTED BY THE LORD

Now that the Babylonian Empire had been overthrown, the Israelites heard that they would soon be able to return to Jerusalem. In today’s passage, the Lord promises to be both their vanguard and their rearguard, allowing them to make the journey without fear of ambush or attack.

1. Who is the oldest person you have ever met?
2. What’s the most unusual car you’ve ever ridden in?
3. How would your actions or decisions change if you knew God was going both before and behind you?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “How Great Thou Art” by Tennessee Ernie Ford
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Deep Places” by William McDowell and Trinity Anderson
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Song of Solomon” by Martin Smith
• Guzik’s Commentary on Isaiah 52
• Coffman’s Commentary on Isaiah 52
• Gill’s Exposition of Isaiah 52

Download “In the World” for May 28, 2023 here.

KINDNESS TO A LEGAL ENEMY

Last month, a years-long legal battle involving actress Gwyneth Paltrow concluded in her favor. On the slopes of a Utah ski resort in 2016, Paltrow and another skier, Terry Sanderson (now 76), collided, resulting in injuries to Mr. Sanderson. He sued her for $3.1 million, and she counter-sued for one dollar plus attorney fees. After a highly publicized court trial last month, the jury sided with Paltrow. On her way out of the courtroom, the actress went to Mr. Sanderson and, rather than gloating, told him, “I wish you well.” Sanderson responded, “Thank you, dear,” and later characterized Paltrow’s gesture as “very kind.”

KINDNESS TO A SPIRITUAL ENEMY

Saul the Pharisee had been blinded in a divine encounter on the road to Damascus. The Lord had rendered him blind in order to open his eyes. Jesus appeared in a vision to a faithful discipled named Ananias, instructing him to go lay hands on Saul to regain his vision and bestow the Holy Spirit. Ananias, quite naturally perhaps, asked the Lord for clarification. But God sent him to his former enemy to make him a brother.

1. What is a celebrity encounter you have had?
2. When have you or others doubted whether someone had actually become a Christian?
3. How have you acted with Christ’s love toward someone you formerly considered an enemy?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Jesus, Lover of My Soul” by Michael Card
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Where You Are” by Niiella and Sanctuary Music
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Keep on Proving It” by Gas Street Music
• Guzik’s Commentary on Acts 9
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Acts 9
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Acts 9

Download “In the World” for May 21, 2023 here.

HAPPY COINCIDENCE AT THE CORONATION

Earlier this month, England held the coronation ceremony for King Charles at Westminster Abbey. It was a spectacle of pomp and history, but what caught the attention of many was all the blue and yellow in the ceremony. Several members of the royal family and distinguished guests, including First Lady Jill Biden, wore blue or yellow, and the interior of the abbey itself was decorated in blue and yellow carpets. With the war in Ukraine in the news, and the first lady of Ukraine in attendance, the prominent display of the colors of the Ukrainian flag was a welcome sight to many. “I saw Ukraine there,” said Dame Melinda Simmons, Britain’s Ambassador to Ukraine, about the carpets, “and lost my composure for a minute.” A Palace spokesman described it all as “a happy coincidence.”

HAPPY COINCIDENCE ON A DUSTY ROAD

In the early days of the Church, one of its leaders—Philip—was led by the Holy Spirit to leave Jerusalem and approach a certain chariot that was traveling slowly along the dusty road. Philip approached the chariot and, in a beautiful example of God’s coordination and timing, overheard the passenger, an official from the Ethiopian royal court, reading aloud from the book of Isaiah. It happened to be Isaiah 53, which is a clear Messianic prophecy. Philip engaged the Ethiopian, and it led to the man becoming a baptized follower of the Lord.

1. What’s the most bizarre coincidence you’ve ever heard of?
2. How do you respond to this quote by William Temple, Archbishop of Canterbury in the 1940s: “When I pray, coincidences happen, and when I don’t, they don’t”?
3. When have you felt most directly guided by the Holy Spirit?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus—There’s Just Something About that Name” by Marshall Hall
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake
• Guzik’s Commentary on Acts 8
• Coffman’s Commentary on Acts 8
• Benson’s Commentary on Acts 8

Download “In the World” for May 14, 2023 here.

TRADING UP FOR EDGE PRESSURE

In Kansas City last month, the NFL draft took place. In the third round, the Carolina Panthers traded the Pittsburgh Steelers a late fourth-round draft in exchange for the eightieth overall pick. The Panthers wanted University of Oregon outside linebacker DJ Johnson, and they were concerned he wouldn’t still be available when their next pick—at ninety-three overall—came around. Johnson fits well with the new defensive scheme the Panthers are adopting, which benefits from multiple edge rushers who can get to the quarterback. “This was one of the teams that I liked and wanted to go to,” Johnson said of the Panthers. “I am super excited. Super juiced. This is one of my dream spots, for sure.”

TRADING UP FOR LEGS THAT WORK

One day not long after the Day of Pentecost, Peter and John were hailed by a paralyzed man begging for money at one of the gates to the temple. The man was hoping for silver or gold to help him get by one more day, just as he’d done most of the days of his life, having been paralyzed since birth. But Peter offered him the chance to trade up for something much better than coins. He offered him the chance, in the name of Jesus Christ, to gain the use of his legs. He accepted, and his legs and ankles were miraculously healed. He leapt and cavorted and shouted praise to God, and a crowd ran up to see this miracle.

1. What are your feelings about the NFL or other pro sports leagues?
2. When have you seen God give someone something greater than they’d dared hope for?
3. In what ways has your life with the Lord been a “trade up” from the life you had before?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Fairest Lord Jesus” by Celtic Hymns
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Father, Let Your Kingdom Come” by Urban Doxology
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Even Still, Even So” by Matt Redman
• Guzik’s Commentary on Acts 3
• JFB Commentary on Acts 3
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Acts 3

Download “In the World” for May 7, 2023 here.

CALLING ON A NEIGHBOR TO BE SAVED

Late last month, video footage was released from body cameras of first responders who rushed to save the life of actor Jeremy Renner on New Year’s Day. Renner, who played Hawkeye in the Avengers movies of superheroes, was run over by his own snowcat while attempting to rescue his nephew, Alex Fries. The 13,500 lb. vehicle ran him over, breaking more than thirty bones and crushing him nearly to death. In the footage, Fries explains what happened, and first responders are amazed to find Renner still alive. Desperate to find help, Fries spotted the legs of neighbor Rich Kovach through a partially opened garage door. Fries yelled and even grabbed Kovach’s ankle to get his attention, so someone could call 911. Renner has had several surgeries and has a long road ahead, but he is determined to fully recover.

CALLING ON THE LORD TO BE SAVED

On the day of Pentecost, God poured out the Holy Spirit onto the believers gathered in Jerusalem. They began speaking in foreign languages they had never learned, astonishing the crowd that had come to the city for the feast. Peter addressed the entire throng, telling them that in this miracle the Lord was fulfilling his promise concerning Jesus Christ, the Messiah—whom they had killed—and was offering pardon and salvation to anyone who would repent and call upon the name of Jesus in faith.

1. What’s the most serious accident you’ve ever heard of anyone recovering from?
2. How might you pray for Jeremy Renner and everyone involved in that event?
3. What do you think it would’ve been like to have been in the crowd on the day of Pentecost?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “In Christ Alone” by One for Israel Music
• Music Video, Multicultural: “In Christ Alone” by One for Israel Music
• Music Video, Contemporary: “In Christ Alone” by One for Israel Music
• Guzik’s Commentary on Acts 2
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Acts 2
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Acts 2

Download “In the World” for April 30, 2023 here.

THE PROMISE OF ELECTRICAL POWER

This month, rain and high winds knocked out power to twenty thousand Michigan residents, just as a cold front moved in. DTE Energy deployed more than 160 crews on the day of the storm, and by 2:00 p.m. the next day, power had been restored to 99.9% of their customers. We expect that sort of responsiveness from utility companies, as a CEO of another power company makes plain: “As an electric utility, our responsibility is to provide reliable power to our customers,” said Kevin Thornton, CEO of Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative. “That’s the promise we make, and we take it very seriously.”

THE PROMISE OF SPIRITUAL POWER

Today’s passage describes a time after the Resurrection but before the Ascension, when Jesus ate a meal with his followers. They pressed him for information about what was going to happen next, but Jesus told them to wait in Jerusalem until the promised Holy Spirit came upon them in power. Then they would know what to do, and it would be to take the good news outward from there until it reached the ends of the earth. But they could not accomplish that task without power from above.

1. When were you most affected by the absence of electricity, water, or some other utility?
2. What’s a task you simply didn’t have the power to accomplish on your own, and how did you eventually manage it?
3. What questions would you have had for Jesus if you’d been eating with him after the Resurrection?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “There Is Strength in the Name of the Lord”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “If You Say Go” by Vineyard Worship
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Yes, Lord” by Kees Kraayenoord
• Guzik’s Commentary on Acts 1
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Acts 1
• Coffman’s Commentary on Acts 1

Download “In the World” for April 23, 2023 here.

REINSTATED AFTER THEFT

The city manager of Brookings, the southernmost city on the Oregon coast, was reinstated last month after pleading no contest to a charge of theft after allegedly shoplifting from an area grocery store. Janell Howard repaid the store for the items she is accused of taking and paid a $500 fine. But Brookings locals report feeling “betrayed” that she was given her old job back. “What message does that send to our at-risk youth that are trying to negotiate the system?” wondered Brookings resident Jan Miller. “That it’s okay to be a thief?” Concerned citizens vowed to hold a recall on all elected city council members who supported the reinstatement. That includes the mayor, said Miller. “We’re going to recall them all.”

REINSTATED AFTER BETRAYAL

After denying three times that he was Jesus’ disciple, and after watching his Lord crucified and buried, Peter’s remorse weighed heavily upon him. Even the reports of Jesus’ resurrection had not brought relief from his sorrow. So when the risen Christ appeared to several disciples on the shores of the Sea of Galilee and asked if Peter loved him, Peter saw his chance to seek forgiveness. His three denials were canceled by three new protestations of his devotion to Jesus, and Peter was reinstated as leader of the newborn church.

1. Under what conditions would you consider reinstating a public official—or religious leader—who is guilty of a crime?
2. What cases could be made that Peter should or should not have been reinstated to lead the church?
3. How can we balance prudence with Christ’s forgiveness of us as we consider reinstating Christian leaders who fall?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Crown Him with Many Crowns”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “You’re Still God” by Songs from the Soil
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Cast My Cares” by Tim Timmons
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 21
• Smith’s Bible Commentary on John 21
• Ellicott’s Commentary on John 21

Download “In the World” for April 16, 2023 here.

ENTHUSIASTIC DIVE IN MICHIGAN

Five years ago, Michigan native Chris Roxburgh was paddleboarding on Lake Michigan when he saw in the waters beneath him a ghostly sunken ship. It turned out he’d discovered the wreck of the George Rogers, a tugboat that sank in 1914. The wreck had never been found because researchers had looked in deeper waters. A week later, and without any training but full of excitement, Roxburgh went back to the spot with a wetsuit and a GoPro camera. His photos and video of the wreck were instantly hailed by local, and then national, media. The thrill of the discovery and his sudden fame convinced Roxburgh that he’d just found his new passion. Five years later, he is a certified scuba diver and a leading expert on photographing deep shipwrecks in the Great Lakes, featured in national publications and on The History Channel.

ENTHUSIASTIC DIVE IN GALILEE

After Jesus’ resurrection, Simon Peter and half a dozen other disciples spent the night fishing on the Sea of Galilee. As the morning dawned and the boat neared land, they spotted a man on the shore beside a cookfire. When Peter understood that it was Jesus, the one he’d so badly failed only a few days before, he threw himself into the water and swam a hundred yards to reach his Lord.

1. What do you think it would feel like to make a significant historical discovery?
2. Despite proof of Jesus’ resurrection, Peter still seems troubled—why do you think that was?
3. When have you felt desperate to get back to Jesus as quickly as possible?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Christ Arose”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “He” by Dwan Hill
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Take, Eat, Drink” by Sarah Kroger
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 21
• JFB Commentary on John 21
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on John 21

Download “In the World” for April 9, 2023 here.

DETERMINED TO BELIEVE

Last month, the men’s basketball team from San Diego State University (SDSU) won their quarterfinals game against Creighton University to move into the Final Four for the first time in the school’s history. With the game tied and the final period ticking down to overtime, Creighton committed a foul, sending SDSU star Darrion Trammell to the free-throw line with only 1.2 seconds left. Trammell missed the first shot and then took a deep breath. After the game, he was asked what went through his mind right then. “That the moment wasn’t too big for me,” he said. “Through everything I’ve been through, I feel like the opportunity was just set there for me. It was God’s timing. I just had to believe in that.” He sank the second shot, and SDSU won by one point.

SLOW TO BELIEVE

On the first Easter Sunday, Jesus’ disciples heard from Mary and the other women who had seen the angels that Jesus was alive. They themselves found the tomb empty. But evidently, two of Christ’s disciples did not believe this meant Jesus had defeated death. Though Jesus’ resurrection changed everything, opening the way for his followers to rise to life as he had, still his closest disciples did not believe that the empty tomb meant Jesus had overcome death and become the firstborn among many more to follow.

1. When has belief (in God, in yourself, or in someone else) helped in a critical moment?
2. What factors went into the disciples’ slowness to believe that Jesus had risen from the dead?
3. Why do we sometimes still live in defeat or fear even though Jesus has overcome the grave?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Sing Hallelujah to the Lord” by Simon Khorolskiy
• Music Video, Multicultural: “The Resurrection” by The Spirituals
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Sing Hallelujah to the Lord” by Simon Khorolskiy
• Guzik’s Commentary on Luke 24
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Luke 24
• Coffman’s Commentary on Luke 24

Download “In the World” for April 2, 2023 here.

THE EMPTY HOMES

In Hong Kong, forty thousand small housing units sit empty. Some were occupied briefly for COVID-19 quarantine stays during the pandemic. But nearly two-thirds of them were never occupied, having been finished after the need diminished, and one was just officially shut in March. This in a city of seven million residents where 1.4 million live below the poverty line and many need subsidized housing. While the average new home sells for over a million dollars, and hundreds of thousands of people wait five years or more for housing, all these quarantine units remain empty. Some critics theorize that the government obtains so much income from house prices being high that it is intentionally slow to ease the housing problem and thus drive down home prices. A government spokesperson said that future plans for the empty units “will be announced after a decision is made.”

THE EMPTY TOMB

When the women got to the tomb to anoint the body of Jesus, they found the stone rolled away and no sign of Jesus. They saw angels, heard about the resurrection, and ran to tell the disciples. Not knowing what to think, Peter ran to the tomb and he too found it empty. Even when we believe, we can still be astonished when God moves in power.

1. What’s an example of government doing a good job for its citizens?
2. What questions do you have about the resurrection of Jesus?
3. When have you believed that something would happen and yet you were still surprised when it did?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Hosanna” by Michael W. Smith
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord” by Kaestrings
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Blessed Is He Who Comes in the Name of the Lord” by Kaestrings
• Guzik’s Commentary on Luke 24
• Clarke’s Commentary on Luke 24
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Luke 24

Download “In the World” for March 26, 2023 here.

DELIVERANCE AND THE JESUS REVOLUTION

Jesus Revolution is a current movie about the Jesus Movement of the 1970s, especially as it involved Pastor Chuck Smith’s church in California. The real-life instigator of the movement at Smith’s church was Lonnie Frisbee, a hippie played in the movie by Jonathan Roumie (who also portrays Jesus in The Chosen). Frisbee’s early life had been marked by brutal beatings by his father and molestation by a babysitter. The young man turned to drugs and homosexuality before becoming radically saved by the Lord. Later, Frisbee fell away from the faith. But near the end of his life, he repented and found deliverance from the Lord he’d inspired so many to follow. His final release came in 1993 when he died from AIDS at age 43.

DELIVERANCE AT THE HANDS OF JESUS

Today’s passage depicts the demon-possessed man who lived in the country of the Gerasenes. The legion of demons gave him tremendous strength, allowing him to break free from shackles and chains. But it wasn’t until Jesus set foot on the shore that he could truly be delivered from his torment. When Jesus delivered him from possession, all the man wanted to do was follow the Lord. But Jesus sent him home to testify about what God had done for him.

1. If you were aware of it at the time, what did you think of the Jesus Movement as it was happening?
2. Why do you think Jesus sent the man home rather than letting him become a follower?
3. In what ways has Jesus delivered you?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “At Calvary” by Reawaken Hymns
• Music Video, Multicultural: “You Are God Alone” by William McDowell
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Send Out Your Light” by Sandra McCracken
• Guzik’s Commentary on Mark 5
• Pulpit Commentary on Mark 5
• JFB Commentary on Mark 5

Download “In the World” for March 19, 2023 here.

THE BOUNDARY BETWEEN HUMAN AND ROBOT

Science fiction authors have long predicted the moment when artificial intelligence (AI) becomes as capable and intelligent as humans. We have not reached that point yet, but a new AI program called ChatGPT has made a huge leap in that direction. ChatGPT lets you enter questions or commands in a way similar to how you might do a Google search, and then you watch as it instantly researches, synthesizes, and types out a well-written response. Whether you want it to summarize the book of Galatians, list the top five themes of the works of Shakespeare, or write a letter to your congressman, ChatGPT can do it almost as quickly as you can type the command. College professors now have to try to determine if term papers were written by their students or by this program. Though we are more capable than AI in many respects, the time when we can easily define the boundary between something written by humans and robots is past.

THE BOUNDARY BETWEEN SAVED AND LOST

Because of a long history of hatred, invasion, intermarriage, and religious disagreement, Jewish people in the first century did not willingly interact with Samaritans. The boundary between Israel and Samaria was well known by both parties, and each stayed away from the other. But Jesus not only crossed the border and went into a Samaritan town, he also broke the barrier between Jewish rabbi and unaccompanied Samaritan woman—so that he could reach a woman who was desperately lost.

1. What opportunities or dangers do you see in the advances being made in artificial intelligence?
2. Who might be today’s equivalent to the Samaritan woman?
3. What boundaries would you be willing to cross to bring the gospel to someone who needs it?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “O Sacred Head Now Wounded” by Altar of Praise Chorale
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Cross and Empty Grave” by SONS & TRIBL
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Cross and Empty Grave” by SONS & TRIBL
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 4
• Ellicott’s Commentary on John 4
• Coffman’s Commentary on John 4

Download “In the World” for March 12, 2023 here.

A FATAL STUMBLE

Changes may be coming to equestrian events after the tragic death of Irish rider Tiggy Hancock (15) in 2001. An inquiry last month found that the trained showjumping horse the young girl was riding could not see a jump bar. This led to a tumble in which horse and rider flipped. Tiggy landed on the ground first and the horse fell on top of her, crushing her chest and one lung, leading to her death. Her mother, who witnessed the fall, said the obstacle was “brown water with a brown jump and brown sand.” Tiggy is remembered as an accomplished rider and rising star in Irish equestrian sport. The family welcomes the call to use contrasting colors so both horse and rider can see obstacles, hopefully avoiding future tragedy.

AN ETERNAL STUMBLE

In today’s passage, Jesus drives home the importance of not stumbling and not causing others to stumble. To follow Jesus in humility and devotion is the way to enter the kingdom of heaven, and nothing must be allowed to be an obstacle to this. The stakes can be eternal. He urges us to prefer entry into the kingdom over anything on earth—and to be sure not to block others as they seek to get in.

1. What experience do you have with horses?
2. If you could suggest a safety improvement to any sport or activity, what would it be?
3. Why did Jesus use such disturbing imagery in today’s passage?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Are You Washed in the Blood of the Lamb?” by Joey & Rory
• Music Video, Multicultural: “We Will Feast in the House of Zion” by Anchor Hymns
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Real Thing” by Songs from the Soil
• Guzik’s Commentary on Matthew 18
• Clarke’s Commentary on Matthew 18
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Matthew 18

Download “In the World” for March 5, 2023 here.

REGRETS OVER LEAVING A JOB

In 2021, partially due to the disruptions of COVID-19, 47 million Americans quit their jobs, and the trend has not entirely ended. This unprecedented shift in the workforce was dubbed The Great Resignation. But a recent survey found that for most of those who quit, it has become The Great Regret. The survey, performed by HR company Paychex, found that eighty percent of employees who left their jobs during this period feel that they made a mistake, and sixty-eight percent have tried to get their old jobs back. Workers who resigned reported missing co-workers, having lower pay, and finding less work satisfaction in a new job as compared to the previous one. Only twenty-seven percent of those trying to get rehired at their old places of employment have succeeded.

REGRETS OVER LEAVING HOME

Jesus’ parable of the prodigal son follows a similar trajectory. Thinking the grass was greener out in a faraway country where he could be master of his own time and finances, the young protagonist strikes out and lives the high life. Until the money runs out. But at his lowest point, he comes to his senses and determines to go home, humbly and with newfound gratitude over what his father had provided all along.

1. What’s a workplace or relational decision that you came to regret?
2. When have you made a big change that was definitely a good one?
3. What is your favorite aspect of the prodigal son story?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Nothing but the Blood of Jesus”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “I See the Lord” by Ron Kenoly
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Blessed Assurance” by Steph MacLeod
• Guzik’s Commentary on Luke 15
• Coffman’s Commentary on Luke 15
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Luke 15

Download “In the World” for February 26, 2023 here.

REJECTED PHONE CALL

Earlier this month, the United States military shot down several objects thought to be unmanned Chinese spy balloons in the airspace of the US and Canada. The first incident was the downing of a very large balloon at high altitude (over 60,000′). Shortly after the Air Force F-22 destroyed the balloon with a Sidewinder missile, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin used a special phone line to reach out to his Chinese counterpart, Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe, to try to manage the crisis. But the minister refused to get on the line, later saying that the U.S. had “not created the proper atmosphere” for dialogue. A call to prevent a possible escalation was rejected, and matters became worse.

REJECTED SAVIOR

Peter appealed to all people to heed the call of Jesus to be saved. He said that some—including the Christians he was writing to—had indeed believed in Jesus as God’s chosen and precious cornerstone. By this, they had become spiritual stones themselves, and God had constructed them into a spiritual building. But others continued to reject the Lord’s offer, and Jesus had become for them a stumbling stone. A call to prevent eternal doom was rejected, and if they did not change their minds, matters for them would become much worse.

1. What are acceptable and unacceptable practices for nations to spy on one another?
2. When did someone reject a positive effort on your part? What did you do?
3. What causes an unbeliever to change his or her mind and come to Jesus in faith?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Jesus Paid It All” by Levistance
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Jesus Paid It All” by Levistance
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Jesus Paid It All” by Levistance
• Guzik’s Commentary on 1 Peter 2
• Barclay’s Commentary on 1 Peter 2
• Ellicott’s Commentary on 1 Peter 2

Download “In the World” for February 19, 2023 here.

IMPARTIALITY REQUIRED IN AFGHANISTAN

Humanitarian agencies working around the world sometimes struggle to ensure that the aid they deliver makes it into all the right hands. For example, in Afghanistan the Taliban has recently placed restrictions on food aid agencies that make it nearly impossible to assess whether or not the food is reaching the most vulnerable—women and children—with any degree of impartiality. Some agencies have halted their aid to the country because of the restrictions. The issue highlights the difficulty of balancing women’s rights with delivering aid.

IMPARTIALITY REQUIRED AT CHURCH

This week’s passage records James’ observation that people in churches were giving precedence to rich congregants and treating poor congregants disrespectfully. Though some among the rich were exploiting other Christians and dragging them into court, these were the ones being honored. He called believers to treat all people equally and to remember that God has chosen the poor to be rich in faith.

1. What factors prevent vulnerable people from receiving aid, even when it’s offered?
2. When and where have you seen good examples of impartiality at church?
3. What explains the tendency to treat rich people favorably?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “O God, Our Help in Ages Past”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Have Your Way” by Casey J
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Coming Back” by Thrive Worship
• Guzik’s Commentary on James 2
• Ellicott’s Commentary on James 2
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on James 2

Download “In the World” for February 12, 2023 here.

IMMORTAL CELLS

People have been trying to defy death for millennia before Ponce de León searched for the Fountain of Youth. In more recent years, scientists have explored “cell death” in the bodies of mammals, and last month, researchers discovered how to accelerate, decelerate, and even reverse aging in mouse cells. They learned how to tell the epigenome (the part of the DNA system that gives cells their instructions) to erase the corrupted instructions that had been causing cell death. The researchers have hopes that further work will show potential in healing a host of diseases—including chronic heart disease and even neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s. “It’s no longer a question of if rejuvenation is possible,” says David Sinclair, professor of genetics in the Blavatnik Institute at Harvard Medical School, “but a question of when.”

IMMORTAL SOULS

In today’s passage, the Apostle Paul urged Timothy, his protégé, to fan into flame the spiritual gift that was in him. Timothy had the responsibility and the honor of proclaiming the message that Jesus Christ had abolished death and brought immortality to light. Timothy needed to leave his natural timidity behind and guard the good thing that Christ had deposited into him and given him the grace to use in his service.

1. If science developed the ability to hold off death indefinitely, why (or why not) would you be interested?
2. What advantages and disadvantages would there be in prolonging earthly life indefinitely?
3. When have you had to leave behind some natural tendency of your own to follow the Lord?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “How Great Our God’s Majestic Name”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Fighting for My Heart” by Songs from the Soil
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Fighting for My Heart” by Songs from the Soil
• Guzik’s Commentary on 2 Timothy 1
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on 2 Timothy 1
• JFB Commentary on 2 Timothy 1

Download “In the World” for February 5, 2023 here.

TRACTION THROUGH AN UNLIKELY SOURCE

Oklahoma City motorists were seeing red late last month as they made their way across frozen bridges and overpasses. The city’s public works department was experimenting with a mixture of rock salt brine and beet juice to increase the effectiveness of their ice-melting efforts. The brine alone needs a temperature of at least fifteen degrees to melt ice, but adding a percentage of beet juice to the mixture drops its operating temperature to negative twenty degrees. If the experiment is successful, the program may expand—and if it gives drivers better traction, perhaps they won’t mind the red tint on the roads.

WISDOM THROUGH AN UNLIKELY GROUP

In Paul’s first letter to the Christians in Corinth, he developed one of his favorite themes: that the weakness of humans is the perfect stage for the demonstration of the power of God. Though the Corinthian church did not have many impressive people in it—few government officials, notables, or celebrities of any sort—nevertheless, they were the ones whom God had chosen to use to show the foolishness of the world’s wisdom.

1. What’s the strangest solution you’ve ever seen to a problem?
2. What do you think of Christians’ fascination with celebrities who come to faith in Christ?
3. Where have you seen the wisdom of humans nullified by the wisdom of God?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Eternal Father Strong to Save” by Eden’s Bridge
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Control” by Becca Folkes
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Control” by Becca Folkes
• Guzik’s Commentary on 1 Corinthians 1
• Clarke’s Commentary on 1 Corinthians 1
• Matthew Poole’s Commentary on 1 Corinthians 1

Download “In the World” for January 29, 2023 here.

EMERGING FROM PHYSICAL COLLAPSE

On January 2, during a Monday Night Football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Buffalo Bills, Bills’ safety Damar Hamlin made a routine tackle on Bengals’ receiver Tee Higgins. Both players got up, but Hamlin suddenly collapsed. Medical staff rushed to the field, where they determined that his heart was not beating. First responders administered CPR, and Hamlin was rushed to a local hospital, where he remained in a coma in intensive care. Over the next three days, not just the world of pro football but most of the nation hung on scraps of updates. Finally, to the relief of all, Hamlin emerged from the coma and showed no sign of lasting injury to his mental or physical capacities. “We’re not promised anything,” said NFL great Tom Brady, reflecting on Hamlin’s injury and recovery, “none of us are…. Let’s not take anything for granted,” he said. “Nothing’s forever.”

EMERGING FROM SPIRITUAL COLLAPSE

The land of Judah had been devastated by a plague of locusts because of the disobedience of God’s people. But even though the Lord had sent his army to devastate their fields as in the Day of the Lord, he nevertheless promised to be with them and to bless them in the future. His discipline was not forever, and his mercy remained for those who worshipped him. God promised that Judah would emerge from that disaster and once again praise him.

1. What is the most serious injury you’ve heard about in sporting events?
2. When has something happened that has reminded you that there are more important things than what we often get so worked up about?
3. How often do you think about God’s discipline on those he loves?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Day by Day and with Each Passing Moment” by Guy Penrod
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Santo Alleluia / Holy Halleluiah” by Revere
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Santo Alleluia / Holy Halleluiah” by Revere
• Guzik’s Commentary on Joel 2
• Gill’s Exposition of Joel 2
• Pulpit Commentary on Joel 2

Download “In the World” for January 22, 2023 here.

EMANCIPATION FOR SLAVES

January is National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and already many communities across America have celebrated the 160th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. On January 1, 1863, a document signed by President Abraham Lincoln went into effect declaring the freedom of enslaved people living in Confederate states that were not yet in Union hands. This freedom was not realized by most slaves in the South until the conclusion of the Civil War, in 1865. Today, slavery remains a scourge in America through forced labor and sex trafficking. “I call upon businesses, civil society organizations, communities of faith, families, and all Americans,” said President Biden in a December 30, 2022, proclamation, “to recognize the vital role we play in combating human trafficking.”

EMANCIPATION FOR ALL

Through Isaiah, the Lord reminded the Jewish people that his will has always been to loose the chains of injustice, feed the hungry, and remove the yoke of oppression. In today’s passage, Isaiah declares God’s promise that those who heed his call to bring emancipation to all who are in forced labor will receive blessing and power from heaven.

1. What was your closest encounter with slavery, forced labor, or human trafficking?
2. How can we fight human trafficking today?
3. Who is one person whose suffering you could alleviate this week?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Just When I Need Him, Jesus Is Near” by George Byrd
• Music Video, Multicultural: “What A Beautiful Name” by Aaron Lindsey
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Hunger” by MDSN and David & Nicole Binion
• Guzik’s Commentary on Isaiah 58
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Isaiah 58
• Spurgeon’s Exposition of Isaiah 58

Download “In the World” for January 15, 2023 here.

CLOSED IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

In the last week of December, a small sinkhole opened on the shoulder of SR-261 just south of Washtucna, Washington. Department of Transportation crews closed the rural road in one direction, reducing traffic to a single lane. Then over the course of the next few hours, the sinkhole began to collapse the asphalt, widening to dangerous proportions. Officials finally closed the road in both directions and set up a detour. Sinkholes in Washington are usually caused by extreme weather changes or flooding beneath the surface. The water can hollow out an area beneath land, a road, or even a structure, and eventually the roof of the cavern can’t support itself. “If you see a sinkhole,” said TV station Fox 28 in Spokane, “even a small one, quickly leave the area and report it. Though they can look harmless at first, the opening can spread rapidly.”

THE GOD WHO GIVES DIRECTIONS

In today’s passage, God reminds the Jewish people that he had announced his plans for them in generations past. They had no room to claim that they had thought them up or brought them to pass through their pagan idols. Then he says he’s doing new things that they couldn’t predict, so they can’t claim they’d already known of them. God is the one who directs them, either in the past or the future, and teaches them what’s best for them. But will they heed his directions?

1. What’s the worst sinkhole incident you’ve ever heard of?
2. When have you had to change the direction of your life?
3. How has God directed you in the past?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Be Not Dismayed Whate’re Betide”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “You Waited” by Travis Greene
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Caminho no Deserto / Way Maker” by REVERE
• Guzik’s Commentary on Isaiah 48
• Pulpit Commentary on Isaiah 48
• Gill’s Exposition of Isaiah 48

Download “In the World” for January 8, 2023 here.

OVERCOME BY SMOKE

A 66-year-old woman in Benton Harbor, MI, died in October in a house fire. When firefighters arrived at 1:49 p.m., fire was coming from the eaves of the home. The incident commander circled the house and found the woman’s husband struggling to open the back door to rescue his wife, but he was overcome by smoke and could not proceed. The firefighters entered the home and rescued the woman. On the way to the hospital, she regained a pulse, but she later died from her injuries. It was her birthday the next day.

NOT OVERCOME BY FIRE

Though God’s people had disobeyed Him, He still promised to not forsake them. He was their God and He had summoned them by name. Though waters might rise up against them, they would not drown, and though they passed through fire, they would not be overcome. They were witnesses to the fact that the Lord is the only God.

1. Have you ever had breathing problems caused by smoke? What did it feel like?
2. When, if ever, have you felt that God might have abandoned you?
3. How can you know that God has called you and not forsaken you?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Abide with Me” by Keith and Kristyn Getty
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Abide with Me” by the Nathaniel Dett Chorale
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Abide with Me” by the Nathaniel Dett Chorale
• Guzik’s Commentary on Isaiah 43
• Pulpit Commentary on Isaiah 43
• Gill’s Exposition of Isaiah 43

Download “In the World” for January 1, 2023 here.

DEBT FORGIVENESS FOR A STUDENT

The federal Student Loan Forgiveness program is understandably popular for the many millions of college students carrying debt from their educational loans. Some analysts, however, point out that such forgiveness may encourage financial irresponsibility and that it would tend to discourage those who worked to repay their debt after graduation. But with university costs skyrocketing and the pandemic putting some people out of work, many have fallen behind and feel they can never recover. No matter what may be said about the policy or the program, when a person needs help with any debt, forgiveness is always welcome.

SIN FORGIVENESS FOR A PEOPLE

Today’s passage includes one of the most well-known verses in the Old Testament. The “If my people…” passage is a common rallying cry to call a nation back to God. The benefits of turning the hearts of a people back to God are many, not least of which being forgiveness of sin. The dangers of turning away from the Lord are manifold, as well, and include invasion, conquest, and exile to another land—all of which did happen for God’s people.

1. What do you think about any effort to forgive or cancel financial debt?
2. As we enter this new year, who in your life will you decide to forgive?
3. What benefits and dangers are there in today’s world for turning toward or away from God?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “All the Way My Savior Leads Me”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Here Is Our Halleluiah” by Village Lights
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Here Is Our Halleluiah” by Village Lights
• Guzik’s Commentary on 2 Chronicles 7
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on 2 Chronicles 7
• Benson Commentary on 2 Chronicles 7

Download “In the World” for December 25, 2022 here.

GRASPING THE CORE MESSAGE

When students are learning a language other than their mother tongue, some use reader books in which the original words have been simplified by the books’ writers. However, as artificial intelligence (AI) tools become more powerful, simplification software is emerging that can simplify any written material automatically. This fall, in a test of an English-language AI text simplification tool in Busan, South Korea, students who were learning English were able to grasp the core message of an article simplified from the magazine Scientific American. The automated tools need more work to help readers of all levels, however. “Software developers will continue to develop AI-enhanced tools,” says the study’s leader, Professor Dennis Murphy Odo, “that will make challenging texts more and more comprehensible to foreign language learners with different reading proficiencies.”

EXPRESSING HIS CORE MESSAGE

When Mary was pregnant with Jesus, she was filled with the Holy Spirit and uttered beautiful words that expressed the heart of God and what would be Jesus’ core message on earth. Those who fear the Lord will be exalted. Those who oppress the poor will be cast down. The hungry will be filled, and the proud will be scattered and sent away empty.

1. What’s a complex idea someone has expertly simplified for you?
2. How would you describe God’s core message? What is the Lord’s heartbeat?
3. Who around you needs to hear that message?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “O Holy Night” by The Spirituals
• Music Video, Multicultural: “O Holy Night” by The Spirituals
• Music Video, Contemporary: “O Holy Night” by The Spirituals
• Guzik’s Commentary on Luke 1
• Pulpit Commentary on Luke 1
• Clarke’s Commentary on Luke 1

Download “In the World” for December 18, 2022 here.

REMOVING OBSTACLES TO GOD IN AFRICA

In a commencement address at Coal City University Enugu in Nigeria this fall, Senator Anthony Agbo called on Africa’s universities to lead the way in turning to Scripture for how to live. He urged his countrymen to turn from pagan gods and lay aside internal conflicts, basing their lives on the Bible in order to avoid the obstacles caused by those ancient prophecies. He urged them to turn to the Word of God, “whose power, authority and impeccable truth have defied the coordinated onslaught of misguided men of all ages, including those of elevated but sinister institutions; to produce the greatest nations on earth and most insightful men of all time.”

REMOVING OBSTACLES TO GOD IN ISRAEL

John the Baptist was raised up by God to go in the spirit of the Old Testament prophets to make the people’s hearts ready to welcome their King. His ministry would be to remove all obstacles from the path of the Lord’s coming. Every valley would be raised, every mountain flattened, and every crooked way straightened to hasten the arrival of the Son of God.

1. What correlations are there, if any, between a nation that reveres the Word of God and that nation’s status?
2. What Old Testament judgments are still in effect today?
3. In what way did John’s ministry remove obstacles for the coming of Jesus?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” by The Petersens
• Music Video, Multicultural: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” by Maverick City/TRIBL
• Music Video, Contemporary: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” by The Petersens
• Guzik’s Commentary on Luke 3
• Coffman’s Commentary on Luke 3
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Luke 3

Download “In the World” for December 11, 2022 here.

THE WRONG KIND OF ATTENTION

The wastewater treatment plant in the city of Driggs, ID, has for years failed to come into compliance with federal pollution statutes. The city has been working to eliminate the problem and build a new plant, but the federal government filed a lawsuit in October to pressure the city to come into compliance. However, some in the media have misrepresented the seriousness of the problem, painting the city as negligent and irresponsible. “It is challenging to know the facts surrounding our [plant],” said Mayor August Christensen, “and see how some media outlets spun the story. I am hearing how much it is affecting our community.” Despite the large amount of negative media attention, Christensen hopes people will support the city’s efforts to correct the problem.

THE RIGHT KIND OF ATTENTION

After failing to believe the angel’s words about a son, Zechariah was rendered mute until the boy was born. At John’s birth, however, news began to go out that God had been merciful to Elizabeth by giving her a son, even in her old age. But when Zechariah indicated, by writing a message on a tablet, that the boy’s name was to be what the angel had proclaimed, his muteness vanished, and he began praising God and prophesying. Then everyone in the whole region turned their attention to the great things God was doing for Israel.

1. When has someone gotten the wrong idea about you, and what did you do?
2. Why do you think the media sometimes misrepresents true events?
3. What’s something God did that you just had to tell someone about?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Kingdom” by Maverick City Music
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Kingdom” by Maverick City Music
• Guzik’s Commentary on Luke 1
• Coffman’s Commentary on Luke 1
• Pulpit Commentary on Luke 1

Download “In the World” for December 4, 2022 here.

SHE COULDN’T BELIEVE THE PARTY WAS FOR HER

For more than two decades, Dolores Santucci (now 96) manned her hot dog cart in Hillsdale, New Jersey. “She was there six days a week, rain or shine,” says Esther Davidowitz writing in NorthJersey.com. “Everyone in town and beyond, it seems, knew her, if not by name, then by her nickname: The Hot Dog Lady.” After a liver infection sidelined her from working the cart, the city decided to honor the woman many called “Mom.” The mayor proclaimed October 28 “Dolores Santucci Day,” and more than 200 people turned out for the celebration. “It was a complete surprise,” said Dolores of the party, which took place at the cart. “I couldn’t believe it. The people are very nice. They always were nice.”

HE COULDN’T BELIEVE GOD HAD GRANTED HIS PRAYER

For many decades, the priest Zechariah prayed that his wife, Elizabeth, would bear him a son. Sadly, she remained barren, and by the time they were both well advanced in years, one wonders if his prayers slowed or finally stopped. So, when the angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah in the Temple and told him that his prayers for a son had been heard, Zechariah didn’t buy it. He still got the son he’d prayed so long for, but there were consequences for his unbelief: he was rendered mute until his son, John the Baptist, was born.

1. If you could throw a big celebration to honor someone, who would it be?
2. When have you or someone else stopped praying for something only to receive it unexpectedly?
3. How do you think God decides if, how, and when to grant prayers?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Be Thou My Vision” by Elenyi
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Be Thou My Vision” by Elenyi
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Be Thou My Vision” by Elenyi
• Guzik’s Commentary on Luke 1
• Pulpit Commentary on Luke 1
• Coffman’s Commentary on Luke 1

Download “In the World” for November 27, 2022 here.

TOOLS TO SPOT AN UNSEEN ENEMY

The invasion of Ukraine is the first time that both sides in a conflict have had reconnaissance drones—and the ability to shoot down the enemy’s drones. Throughout the war, Ukraine’s hordes of locally produced drones, which are cheap enough to lose during a mission without causing much hardship, have been a better option to Russia’s small number of very expensive drones, which Moscow doesn’t want to lose. As a result, the Ukrainian military has had much better knowledge of Russian positions and movements than the Russian military has enjoyed.

TOOLS TO FIGHT AN UNSEEN ENEMY

When the devil’s schemes come on the day of evil, Christians can stand firm in the power of the Lord. Paul’s famous passage on the full armor of God—based on the armor worn by Roman soldiers all around him in prison—encourages believers to take up and strap on the various pieces of armor. The enemy may be spiritual and invisible, but Jesus does not leave His children without powerful defenses.

1. What do you think of self-flying or self-driving vehicles like drones?
2. How can we improve our ability to see things that are otherwise invisible?
3. When have you used one or more pieces of the full armor of God?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Like a River Glorious”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Trusting in Jesus” by Anchor Hymns
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Trusting in Jesus” by Anchor Hymns 
• Guzik’s Commentary on Ephesians 6
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Ephesians 6
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Ephesians 6

Download “In the World” for November 20, 2022 here.

THE BEAUTY OF FALL COLORS

During spring and summer in the northern hemisphere, tree leaves bud and sprout, becoming a luxurious green in the warmth of the middle of the year. But as autumn begins, leaves turn color, becoming the glorious shades of gold, yellow, red, and orange we often see at Thanksgiving. What many people don’t know is that the leaves were always secretly gold, yellow, red, and orange. During the long-daylight months of spring and summer, the trees were producing chlorophyl and lots of green pigment, which masked the other colors. When the sun is up fewer hours, the chlorophyl breaks down and there is no longer enough green pigment to hide the leaves’ true colors.

THE BEAUTY OF GOD’S WORKMANSHIP

Paul tells the Christians in Ephesus that they are creations hand-crafted by God for specific purposes. Like the handiwork of a master craftsman, believers are beautiful in their own right. But God hasn’t created, called, and justified us simply to be admired but rather to be useful to him in the good works that he has prepared for us to do. We find our meaning when we are used by God to do his will on earth.

1. What is your favorite autumn memory?
2. What are your plans for Thanksgiving?
3. In what ways are you a masterpiece? In what ways are you a trusty tool for the Lord?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “If You Will Only Let God Guide You”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Room at the Table” by Vineyard Worship
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Room at the Table” by Vineyard Worship
• Guzik’s Commentary on Ephesians 2
• Coffman’s Commentary on Ephesians 2
• JFB Commentary on Ephesians 2

Download “In the World” for November 13, 2022 here.

ENLIGHTENED FOR THE EARTH

Late last month, the Frost and Sullivan Institute released its second annual Enlightened Growth Leadership Awards. The prize goes to companies that “have demonstrated commitment to [environmental] sustainability by leveraging technology and innovation-driven solutions to make strides in innovating some of the major global challenges we face.” One of this year’s winners is Ubisoft Entertainment, makers of video games such as Assassin’s Creed and Ghost Recon. Their efforts to support the environment include targeting 100% renewable energy in their facilities, limiting employees’ international travel, and eliminating single-use plastics in their offices. “The recipients of the Enlightened Growth Leadership Recognition,” said Aroop Zutshi, Director, Frost & Sullivan Institute, “have demonstrated success in merging business acumen with a moral imperative.”

ENLIGHTENED BY GOD

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians includes his prayer that the eyes of their hearts would be enlightened with wisdom so they could fully grasp the hope that Christ had given them. He prayed that their understanding would be stretched so they would know the inheritance of power, riches, and security that was theirs through the Lord.

1. How do you help care for the world the Lord made us stewards of?
2. What improvements have you seen in how some companies treat the environment?
3. How has your understanding of Christ’s riches toward you grown over the years?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Children of the Heavenly Father”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “The Sweetest Sound” by Village Lights
• Music Video, Contemporary: “The Sweetest Sound” by Village Lights
• Guzik’s Commentary on Ephesians 1
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Ephesians 1
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Ephesians 1:15–23

Download “In the World” for November 6, 2022 here.

PICKED TO RULE WITH XI

Last month, China’s President Xi Jinping secured a third term in office. In addition, he handpicked his top cabinet members, the Politburo Standing Committee, promoting and demoting so that only those personally loyal to him remain. One surprise was the promotion to the top spot among Xi’s advisors of Li Qiang, who had fallen out of public favor by his poorly planned and deeply unpopular COVID lockdown in Shanghai, where Li held top party leadership. “If Li Qiang does become premier, which looks now certain,” said Tony Saich, an expert on Chinese politics at Harvard University, “it clearly means that loyalty is more important than performance.”

PICKED TO INHERIT WITH CHRIST

Before the creation of the world, God chose us in Him to be adopted as His sons and daughters. He redeemed us through Christ, made us to the praise of His glory through our hope in Him, and marked us with a seal of the Holy Spirit when we believed. The Spirit is the deposit guaranteeing our inheritance from God until the day when we receive it in His presence.

1. When have you seen loyalty prized above performance? When have you seen the opposite?
2. What do you think it means that we were chosen to be blameless in God’s sight?
3. What’s an example of something held as a deposit or guarantee until a later date?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “He Leadeth Me, O Blessed Thought”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Believe for It” by CeCe Winans
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Believe for It” by CeCe Winans
• Guzik’s Commentary on Ephesians 1
• Spurgeon’s Commentary on Ephesians 1
• Pulpit Commentary on Ephesians 1

Download “In the World” for October 30, 2022 here.

WHO HE IS UNDER THE COSTUME

Halloween is Monday and depending on where you live and whether or not you leave your porch light on, you may get some trick-or-treaters at your door. This year, you can expect to see more than the usual number of cute little dinosaurs, Spider-Man imitators, fairies, and characters from the Netflix show Stranger Things. Those are the most popular Halloween costume searches this month, according to Google. It can be humorous when children dressed in costumes expect us to recognize them under the mask. But sometimes, the outward appearance doesn’t give us any clues as to who is actually standing before us.

WHO HE IS UNDER THE APPEARANCE

After God let Israel have their way in choosing a regal-looking first king—and the disasters that followed—He decided to replace Saul with a king who would be a man after His own heart. He sent Samuel to Bethlehem, to the house of Jesse, to anoint God’s selection. But none of Jesse’s handsome, impressive, full-grown, regal-looking sons were God’s choice. They had to go bring in the kid brother, who smelled of sheep, before God revealed His plan. Sometimes, the outward appearance of a king doesn’t show how well he will rule. What God examines is the heart.

1. Why would we hide our true character from other people?
2. What does it mean to be a person after God’s own heart?
3. When have you been surprised at the disconnect between someone’s appearance and true character?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Morning Has Broken Like the First Morning”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “My Worship” by Phil Thompson
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Move” by Worship for Everyone
• Guzik’s Commentary on 1 Samuel 16
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on 1 Samuel 16
• Pulpit Commentary on 1 Samuel 16

Download “In the World” for October 23, 2022 here.

A CONSIDERATE KING

Last month, King Charles III took the throne of England after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. While his mother’s coronation ceremony had lasted three hours and boasted 8,000 dignitaries as guests—and cost a fortune, Charles wishes to streamline things. With an eye toward the financial crisis in the UK, Charles didn’t want to create a huge, expensive spectacle of his coronation. So the event (next year) will be one hour long, and the guest list will drop to 2,000. Still big and befitting a kingdom, but sensitive to the cultural moment. “The King is very aware of the struggles felt by modern Britons,” said a royal source. “It should also be representative of a monarchy in a modern world.”

A RELUCTANT KING

After Samuel had ruled Israel as the last judge and first prophet for a lifetime, he grew old and his sons did not follow the Lord. The people, perhaps looking with envy at surrounding nations who were led by monarchs, came to Samuel and demanded that he select someone to rule over them as king. Samuel consulted the Lord, certain that God would refuse their demand. But the Lord told him to grant their request, assuring him that it wasn’t Samuel they were rejecting, but God. However, when it came time to crown Saul, they couldn’t find him. They finally located him hiding with the luggage.

1. What do you think it would be like to live in a monarchy? What would you like or dislike about it?
2. If you were king or queen of your own country, what would be your first decree?
3. Why do you think Saul hid from those who wanted to make him king?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “All Things Bright and Beautiful”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “I Believe” by Niiella
• Music Video, Contemporary: “You’re Still God” by Philippa Hanna
• Guzik’s Commentary on 1 Samuel 8 and 1 Samuel 10
• Constable’s Exposition of 1 Samuel 8 and 1 Samuel 10
• Pulpit Commentary of 1 Samuel 8 and 1 Samuel 10

Download “In the World” for October 16, 2022 here.

OPPORTUNITY FROM WEAKNESS

The global economy continues to struggle. This month, an Australian economic writer named Taylor Dart wrote an article featuring an Australian mining company called Evolution Mining, which has been hit hard by market conditions. Though it had a down fiscal year in 2022, running at seventy-five percent below its highs, Dart sees evidence to predict that the company’s stock will experience a sharp turnaround in the new fiscal year. His personal opinion is that his readers should watch for Evolution Mining’s stock prices to drop even further first though, and he sees this as a good chance to seize the moment. “I would view any pullbacks below US$1.15,” he says, “as buying opportunities.”

STRENGTH FROM WEAKNESS

Israel’s disobedience of the Lord had left them hiding in winepresses to conceal their meager harvests from the occupying Midianites. A young man named Gideon felt quite sharply his weakness as the youngest child of the least important family in a conquered clan. And yet this is the champion the Lord chose to deliver His people. Gideon’s story is a magnificent illustration of how God delights to exert His power through the weakness of willing humans.

1. If you have invested in the stock market, what have been your own highs and lows in doing so?
2. What’s an example of something that others saw as a weakness but that you knew was a strength?
3. Where are you called by God to do something you know you are in desperate need of His help to accomplish?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “For the Beauty of the Earth”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Sing Unto the King” by New Hope Mass Choir
• Music Video, Contemporary: “When I Found Jesus” by Steph Macleod
• Guzik’s Commentary on Judges 6
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Judges 6
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Judges 6

Download “In the World” for October 9, 2022 here.

COLLIDING WITH AN ASTEROID TO SAVE THE EARTH

On September 26, NASA intentionally crashed one of its spacecraft into an asteroid. The DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test) mission released an impactor probe that slammed into Dimorphos, a tiny “moon” that orbits the asteroid known as Didymos, while the other portion of the probe observed the impact as it sailed past. Also watching were the James Webb Space Telescope and the Hubble telescope. The mission was the first “live” test of a proposed method of saving the earth from any asteroids that might someday be found to be on a collision course with our world. The goal of the collision was to see if the impact could adjust the little moon’s orbit around the asteroid, and to what degree. It provided crucial data for scientists and engineers to develop plans for planetary defense.

CONFRONTING THE ISRAELITES TO SAVE THEIR SOULS

At the end of Moses’ life, he gave a speech we often refer to as the Song of Moses. His farewell speech was at times harsh as he called the children of Israel to obey God. Moses knew, after leading them for forty years, that the people were obstinate and tended toward disobedience. But he urged them remember the glorious faithfulness of God after he was gone and to not forget the rock of their salvation.

1. What would you do if you found out that a large asteroid was on a collision course with Earth?
2. When have you or someone else used “tough love” to motivate someone’s behavior? Did it work?
3. How effective was Moses in preventing the children of Israel from committing wickedness after he was gone?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “I Sing the Mighty Power of God” by the Ball Brothers
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Room in My Heart” by Gas Street Music
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Lion and the Lamb” by Leeland
• Guzik’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 32
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 32
• Pulpit Commentary on Deuteronomy 32

Download “In the World” for October 2, 2022 here.

THE RISKS OF COVID-19 UNDER CHINESE POLICY

The Chinese government has taken a zero-COVID policy throughout the pandemic. Citizens are ordered to stay in their homes during local outbreaks. Reports have emerged of police welding apartment doors shut to keep people inside, and people were ordered to stay in their homes even during and after an earthquake. In September, a bus carrying 45 residents who had been exposed to infected people left after midnight to take them to quarantine housing. Around 2:40 a.m., the bus rolled into a ditch, killing 27 of those aboard. The incident, a forced move made when visibility was low and the driver bleary-eyed, highlighted the glaring safety risks the Beijing government has been willing to accept to keep COVID under control. “For such a large-scale, long-distance transport,” said Hu Xijin, the former editor in chief of China’s state-run Global Times, “did it really have to be done so late at night, and was there really no alternative?”

THE RISKS OF THE NILE UNDER EGYPTIAN POLICY

The Egyptian government that assumed power after Joseph’s death adopted a zero-new-Hebrew-boys policy to limit the growth of their slave population. But after months of hiding her newborn son, one Levite mother finally had to obey the letter of the Egyptian edict, so she put her son into the Nile (but in a little boat). Would the boat even float? Would the current overturn it? Would the crocodiles attack? Such dangers are a small thing in God’s eyes; He ensured that the risks were averted and the child would be found by a daughter of Pharaoh, and later named Moses.

1. How do you feel about the stricter or more lenient governmental responses to COVID-19?
2. What risks would you be willing to accept to keep other people safe?
3. When have you had to trust God to keep you from danger?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Heavenly Hosts in Ceaseless Worship”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Run and Hide” by Mitch Wong and Kayla Berry
• Music Video, Contemporary: “A Woman” by Faithful
• Guzik’s Commentary on Exodus 2
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Exodus 2
• Pulpit Commentary on Exodus 2

Download “In the World” for September 25, 2022 here.

FAMILY DISPUTE IN MODERN RUSSIA

The citizens of Russia have been told the invasion of Ukraine is a “special military operation” to liberate the people from fascist forces. But some Russians, including the grown daughters of a returning Russian paratrooper surnamed Grigoryev, know that the truth is much different. Their father returned from six months of fighting “a broken man,” which exacerbated an already sore subject of whether or not the war is justified. “He says he didn’t kill anyone” in the fighting, says one daughter, Elizaveta. “But war is a crime in and of itself,” says Anastasia, the other daughter. The conflict within the family became so intense last month that the daughters fled the home. It’s an example of how the invasion is tearing some Russian families apart.

FAMILY DISPUTE IN ANCIENT CANAAN

Through a sad series of events, two sons of Judah died before having children. Both in turn had been married to a woman named Tamar, and Judah promised to give his third son to her as a husband when he came of age. But the time came, and Judah did not keep his promise. Tamar felt she had to resort to deception to achieve justice—and children—from Judah. Nevertheless, God promised to bring about the Messiah through the line of Judah.

1. What criteria, if any, must be met before you would consider a war to be justifiable?
2. How can family disputes be solved well?
3. Why did God promise to bring the Messiah through the line of Judah, despite Judah’s sins?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “He Reigns Forever”
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Christ Be All Around Me” by Anchor Hymns
• Guzik’s Commentary on Genesis 35, Genesis 38, and Genesis 49
• Clarke’s Commentary on Genesis 35
• Coffman’s Commentary on Genesis 38 and Genesis 49

Download “In the World” for September 18, 2022 here.

NAME CHANGED FROM

In Germany this month, a family won their legal battle to change their six-year-old daughter’s name from Alexa to something else (undisclosed). Alexa is the name and activation word used by Amazon’s Echo device. Children and even adults would “tease” the little girl by saying her name and commanding her to do things. One man accosted her on the street and said, “Alexa, dance for me.” Lauren Johnson, founder of the I Am Alexa Alliance, says, “The whole thing is a step beyond ‘normal’ teasing and bullying. It’s identity erasure…. The word Alexa has become synonymous with servant or slave,” she says. “It gives people a license to treat people with the name Alexa in a subservient manner.”

NAME CHANGED TO

When Jacob had sent his family and servants across the Jabbok River, he remained alone on the near bank. A mysterious figure appeared and wrestled with him all night, and when he saw he could not overpower Jacob, he said he had fought with God and prevailed. He who could perform such a feat deserved a new name, so the man changed Jacob’s name to Israel, which means one who wrestles with God.

1. When have you wished you could change your name or something else about yourself?
2. What steps have you taken on behalf of someone who was being bullied or harassed?
3. If God were to give you a new name, what might it be? What would you wish your new name to be?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Sing a Song of Celebration”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Reputation” by Mitch Wong
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Reputation” by Mitch Wong
• Guzik’s Commentary on Genesis 32
• Coffman’s Commentary on Genesis 32
• David Meyers’ Commentary on Genesis 32

Download “In the World” for September 11, 2022 here.

SHORTSIGHTED IN THE MILITARY

A report released last month by the Defence Safety Authority, an investigative arm of the British military, claims that a tragic death happened because someone was not wearing his contact lenses. Last year, during a live-fire training exercise at the Castlemartin range in Pembrokeshire, Wales, Sergeant Gavin Hillier, 35, of the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, was fatally shot. The report found that the shooter was not wearing his lenses and mistook his fellow soldier for a shooting target. Without his contacts, the shooter would’ve had to be six times closer to the target to be able to distinguish what he was shooting at. Sergeant Hillier had served in several countries, including Afghanistan, where he’d fought the global war on terror, which we especially remember this weekend.

SHORTSIGHTED IN GOD’S PLAN

Jacob and Esau were twin brothers in the book of Genesis. Esau loved his wide-open spaces and wild game, while Jacob was a homebody who sometimes enjoyed vegetarian dishes. One day, Esau returned from the hunt in a state of great hunger. In order to get a bowl of the savory bean soup Jacob was cooking, Esau was willing to give away his birthright as Isaac’s firstborn son. His shortsighted decision changed the course of the two nations that would rise from their lines: Edom and Israel.

1. What’s the worst tragedy you’ve heard of resulting from reduced or obstructed vision?
2. As you remember the 21^st anniversary of 9/11, what are your thoughts on the state of the world?
3. How can we balance our real but shortsighted goals against the need to take the long view, especially as it relates to God’s plan?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Alleluia, Alleluia! The Majesty and Glory of Your Name”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “T-Shirt Man” by Common Hymnal
• Music Video, Contemporary: “More Than Halfway” by Local Sound
• Guzik’s Commentary on Genesis 25
• Coffman’s Commentary on Genesis 25
• Gill’s Exposition of Genesis 25

Download “In the World” for September 4, 2022 here.

COME BACK

Several major corporations in North America have designated this Monday—Labor Day—as the day when most of their workforce must cease working exclusively from home. It is RTO (return-to-office) day. However, “Workers have grown accustomed to being able to work where and when they wish,” says Bloomberg writer Matthew Boyle, “freeing them up to care for kids, aging parents or to simply escape … and take a stroll in the backyard after lunch.” Labor Day may be when companies draw a line in the sand for their workers to come back to their desks. “In the battle of the boardroom versus the bedroom,” Boyle says, “something has to give come September.”

GO FORTH

During his life in Haran, Abram had grown wealthy and was probably anticipating enjoying his sunset years enjoying the fruit of his labors. However, the Lord God spoke to Abram and called him to leave the country of his father and journey into a land that God would show him. Once he and his family, along with his servants and flocks, had arrived in Canaan, God promised to bless Abram—and the whole earth through him. He believed the word of the Lord, and it was credited to him as righteousness.

1. What advantages and disadvantages do you see in working from an office vs. working from home?
2. In your current life situation, would you say you are feeling more of a tug to go out or to stay put? Explain your answer.
3. When has God ever called you or someone you know out into an unknown land or on an adventure?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Praise the Lord, Ye Heavens Adore Him”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Wade in the Water” by The Spirituals
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Wade in the Water” by The Spirituals
• Guzik’s Commentary on Genesis 12 and Genesis 15
• Clarke’s Commentary on Genesis 12 and Genesis 15
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Genesis 12 and Genesis 15

Download “In the World” for August 28, 2022  here.

INVITED TO A BIRTHDAY PARTY

Turning six is a big deal. So this month when one girl in England started making out the guest list for her party, she decided to send an invitation to Prince George, the nine-year-old son of Prince William and Duchess Kate. George’s parents received the invitation and ultimately decided he wouldn’t be able to attend. However, they dictated a kind note to the birthday girl. “The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were immensely touched that you should take the trouble to write,” said the response. “It really was most thoughtful of you and Their Royal Highnesses have asked me to send you their warmest thanks and best wishes.” While she didn’t get the prince at her party, the little girl did get a personalized message from the royal family, which her mother says will always be “something amazing she can keep.”

INVITED TO THE ULTIMATE PARTY

The Spirit and the bride invite everyone who hears to receive the free gift of the water of life. When the business of the fall has been tended to and the damage undone, the party that got delayed in Eden can begin, and we’re all invited.

1. What’s the greatest party or celebration you’ve ever been part of?
2. Of all the people who have attended your celebrations over the years, whose presence was most meaningful to you?
3. Revelation describes many pictures of heaven—which aspect appeals to you most?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “I’ll Praise My Maker While I’ve Breath”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “We Do Not Labor in Vain” by Faithful
• Music Video, Contemporary: “We Do Not Labor in Vain” by Faithful
• Guzik’s Commentary on Revelation 22
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Revelation 22
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Revelation 22 

Download “In the World” for August 21, 2022 here.

FOR THE HEALING OF THE NEIGHBORHOODS

Washington, D.C., contains many pockets of financial wealth and many pockets of poverty. Two such neighborhoods are split by the Anacostia River, which is quite wide at the point where it separates the affluent Navy Yard homes from the downtrodden Ward 8 region. A highway bridge linking the neighborhoods was torn down a decade ago, but the piers and pilings were left in place. And now plans are finalizing to rebuild the bridge as an elevated park, garden, art space, and performance venue. “These communities are separated by 900 feet of water,” said Scott Kratz, one of the planners. “They have been divided for generations.” He hopes the park will bring residents from both sides together. Harriet Tregoning, former D.C.-area director of planning, agrees, calling the new bridge “a space where people who wouldn’t otherwise be in the same place would be able to mingle and do things together.”

FOR THE HEALING OF THE NATIONS

Our passage today depicts the New Jerusalem of God, through which runs a wide street with a river flowing down the middle. Straddling this river of crystal-clear water stands the tree of life, which yields twelve crops of fruit and bears fruit every month. It’s a picture of plenty and luxurious life, and its leaves are for the healing of the nations.

1. If you wanted to bring two divided populations together in peace, how would you do it?
2. What step could you take today to be a peacemaker or bridge-builder?
3. In what ways is the New Jerusalem similar to the garden of Eden, and in what ways is it different?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “The God of Abraham Praise” by the Hymn of the Week Virtual Choir
• Music Video, Multicultural: “I Trust You” by Jonathan Traylor
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Help Me Believe” by Strahan
• Guzik’s Commentary on Revelation 22
• Pulpit Commentary on Revelation 22
• JFB Commentary on Revelation 22

Download “In the World” for August 14, 2022 here.

YOUR NEW CITY

Since 1989 with Sim City, fans of computer games have been able to play civic engineer and build their own dream cities. City-building games form a genre that remains popular today. Late last month, a game called Urbek City Builder became the newest entry into the category. In the game, you pick your location and biome (seaside, desert, forest, etc.) and start building your infrastructure, power grid, transportation system, housing districts, and more. You’re limited only by terrain, money, resources, and your own imagination. Urbek brings a focus on how your city will develop on its own, so long as you provide the conditions necessary. For example, if you place several homes around a park, eventually it will become condominiums. If you’ve ever wanted to build a city the “right” way, these games will let you do so.

GOD’S NEW CITY

In today’s passage, we see the new Jerusalem descending from heaven in the glittering glory of God. The city has been designed and constructed by God, and it is both functional and gorgeous. In fact, the emphasis in John’s account of the city is all on how beautiful it is and how richly adorned it is with precious jewels of all kinds. It is from this passage that we learn that heaven has pearly gates. When we finally see the city whose architect and builder is God, we will be astonished.

1. What’s your favorite game (computer game or otherwise) of all time?
2. If you were to build your dream city, what would it be like, and what would it have in it?
3. When you walk the streets of the heavenly Jerusalem, what will you want to do first?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Praise the Lord Who Reigns Above” by Leah Nash
• Music Video, Multicultural: “No Bondage” by Bri Babineaux
• Music Video, Contemporary: “No Bondage” by Bri Babineaux
• Guzik’s Commentary on Revelation 21
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Revelation 21
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Revelation 21

Download “In the World” for August 7, 2022 here.

A NEW BRIDE AND A BURNED HOME

Steve and Andrea Ward of Mariposa County, California, were married last month under a wooden arch in the yard of what was to be their home. Shortly after their wedding, a wildfire broke out, quickly expanding to more than 15,000 acres and forcing over 6,000 residents to evacuate—including the Wards. The fire did take their home, burning it to the ground in a matter of minutes. The newlyweds were allowed to return to the site late last month, where almost everything was gone. The wooden arch had burned away, except for part of its base. “If I gotta prioritize keeping her safe versus keeping the house safe,” said Steve Ward of his new bride, “I’m gonna take her…. What was more important that was built in that … was strong bonds and a stronger love.”

A NEW BRIDE AND AN ETERNAL HOME

The Bible concludes with an account of heaven and the glorious eternity that believers will share with the Lord. In today’s passage, the new Jerusalem descends from heaven adorned as a bride arriving at her wedding. The home the Lord will share with His beloved will never burn or fade, and every tear will be wiped away, replaced by joy.

1. When were you most affected by a fire?
2. What’s the funniest newlywed story you know?
3. What are you most looking forward to about heaven?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven” by Emu Music
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Opening Prayer” by Nashville Life Music
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Here’s To the One We Love” by ICF Worship
• Guzik’s Commentary on Revelation 21
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Revelation 21
• JFB Commentary on Revelation 21

Download “In the World” for July 31, 2022 here.

PEACE AS THE WORLD GIVES

The Russian invasion continues, and nowhere in Ukraine seems safe—not even 167 miles away from the fighting. Earlier this month, Liza Dmytriyeva, a little four-year-old girl with Down syndrome, played big-girl in a park in the city of Vinnytsia, pushing her own stroller and smiling up at her mommy in a video posted to social media. Photos from hours later show the stroller on its side, mangled and bloody, marking the spot where Liza was killed by a Russian cruise missile that destroyed the medical center nearby. The peace the world gives—assuring families that being far away from the battlefield will keep them safe—is not real peace.

PEACE AS THE LORD GIVES

On the night Jesus was to be betrayed, he promised that though he himself was going away from his disciples for a while, they would see him again. Better yet, he would come to them in the form of a helper or advocate, the Spirit of truth, so he could be in them—and they in Him—forever. The Holy Spirit brings the peace that Jesus carried inside him, and no act of war, disease, or death can ever separate those who believe in him from the peace he gives.

1. What has been your strongest reaction to the war in Ukraine?
2. When has human or earthly peace failed you?
3. How have you felt the peace of the Lord—and have you experienced it lately?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Stand Up and Bless the Lord”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “The Glory of the Lord” by Stephen Hurd
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Mother Bird, Mother Bear” by Leslie Jordan
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 14
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on John 14
• Ellicott’s Commentary on John 14 

Download “In the World” for July 24, 2022 here.

BELIEF AND TENNIS GLORY

Two weeks ago, tennis star Elena Rybakina won the women’s singles final at Wimbledon. Though she was born in Russia, she moved to Kazakhstan and has been playing for them for four years. “I’m really happy representing Kazakhstan,” she said before the finals. “They believed in me.” In the final match, Rybakina, then ranked #17 in the world, gained glory by defeating #3-ranked Ons Jabeur in three sets. She again hailed Kazakhstan’s belief in her, noting that the president of their tennis federation had come to some of her matches. “It’s really a big thing,” Rybakina said. “It’s unbelievable support, which I just appreciate.”

BELIEF AND GOD’S GLORY

Four days after Lazarus had been laid in his tomb, Jesus arrived at the home where Martha and Mary grieved the death of their brother. Jesus assured Martha that her brother would rise again. And while her great faith allowed her to believe in Jesus’ power to resurrect, Martha’s still believed they would find a rotting corpse if they opened Lazarus’ tomb. Jesus gently reminded her that if she believed in Him, she would see the glory of God—and after Jesus prayed, Lazarus emerged from the tomb alive.

1. How does someone’s belief in you help you perform at a high level?
2. Whom do you know who needs someone to believe in them today?
3. When have you believed God and seen His glory?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Let All the World in Every Corner Sing”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Ancient of Days” by Ron Kenoly
• Music Video, Contemporary: “All the Poor and Powerless” by All Sons & Daughters
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 11
• Clarke’s Commentary on John 11
• Working Preacher Commentary on John 11

Download “In the World” for July 17, 2022 here.

CAN’T BELIEVE IT

After a 21-year dry spell, the Colorado Avalanche NHL hockey team won the Stanley Cup last month, beating the Tampa Bay Lightning in six games. After the victory celebration on the ice, with the Avs team posing for the camera beside the big metal statue, the Stanley Cup was taken away so it could later be delivered to the home of the Avs team captain, Gabriel Landeskog. Unfortunately, the delivery team couldn’t read the street address in front of the houses and accidentally delivered it to the wrong home. “I couldn’t believe it!” said Kit Karbler, the temporary holder of the Stanley Cup. “I knew that we had Avalanche players that lived in the neighborhood, but I didn’t know how close!” After much friendly laughter and a rare photo op, the delivery team took the trophy to its rightful resting place next door.

MUST BELIEVE IT

Jesus came into the world as its light—and as the perfect representation of His Father. He brought into the family of God all those who believed Jesus had been sent by Him. He also believed that every word His Father gave Him to say led to eternal life, so He carefully delivered each one to His hearers exactly as He’d received them from God.

1. What’s the funniest story you know of something delivered to the wrong person—or of the wrong thing delivered to the right person?
2. When have you had to be absolutely certain that you delivered a message with perfect accuracy?
3. Which command(s) of God did Jesus deliver that lead to eternal life?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy” by The Riverside Choir
• Music Video, Multicultural: “The Blessing” by Freddy Washington and Emily Toce
• Music Video, Contemporary: “What a Good God” by Paul Baloche
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 12
• Ellicott’s Commentary on John 12
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on John 12

Download “In the World” for July 10, 2022 here.

SEEING THE MIRACULOUS

In just a few days (July 12), the very first full-color images from the new James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) are scheduled to be released to the public. The telescope itself is an engineering miracle, having been folded up origami-style to fit inside its launch vehicle and then unfolded in space. But the infrared images it is set to deliver could revolutionize our understanding of the physical universe. With a clarity and magnification greater than any previous telescope, including Hubble, and with infrared’s ability to peer through stellar dust, JWST is poised to wow us with miraculous images and take its place as the greatest space telescope ever built.

BELIEVING THE MIRACULOUS

A royal official from Capernaum traveled to Jesus and begged Him to come heal his son, who was dying. After challenging His listeners to believe in God without first seeing miracles, Jesus promised the father that his son would live. The man took Jesus at His word—believing in Him with no miracle already witnessed—and returned to Capernaum, where he found that his son had been healed at the hour Jesus had promised the miracle.

1. What’s your favorite thing to gaze at when you look into the night sky?
2. What miracle or miracles have you seen God perform?
3. When have you believed God would do something and then you later saw Him bring it to pass?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “’Tis the Grandest Theme (He Is Able to Deliver)”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Risen” by Israel and New Breed
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Never Let Me Go” by Life Worship
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 4
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on John 4
• Ellicott’s Commentary on John 4

Download “In the World” for July 3, 2022 here.

DON’T MISS THE POINT

This Fourth of July, if you go out to watch fireworks, don’t forget that this is a celebration of freedom and unity. Don’t miss the point, as some did last month in Disney World. A couple had staked out the perfect spot to watch fireworks at Cinderella Castle, but shortly before the program began, a family tried to get right in front of them. A physical altercation broke out, first between the wives and then between the husbands. With the result that the police were called and one of the women went to the hospital with a brain bleed. These couples missed the point of ending a fun day at the Happiest Place on Earth by fighting over watching fireworks.

DON’T MISS THE MESSIAH

The Son of God made the entire universe, yet when He walked among His creation, people did not honor Him. Most did not even recognize Him, and fewer still believed in Him. The Light that gives light to the world walked through the darkness, and yet He was not recognized. But some people listened to what John the Baptist said, and some observed the words and works of Jesus, and they did not let Him pass them by. Those who believed in Him received the greatest freedom imaginable.

1. What are your best memories of fireworks?
2. When have you or someone else completely missed the point of what was happening?
3. How can we make sure we don’t miss what Jesus is doing in our own day?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior” by Fernando Ortega
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Ancient of Days” by Mark Barlow, Phil Thompson, Aaron Lindsey (Revere)
• Music Video, Contemporary: “King of Glory/This Is Where I Belong” by Austin and Lindsey Adamec
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 1
• Stephen J. Cole’s Exposition of John 1
• C. Ryle’s Commentary on John 1

Download “In the World” for June 26, 2022 here.

IGNORING THE GUIDANCE OF EXPERTS

Soccer (globally known as football) is a high-speed, sometimes violent game in which head injuries are common. There is pressure from teams, owners, and fans for injured players to continue playing. This can result in extremely serious injuries, including permanent brain damage. This month, the sport’s global governing body, the International Football Association Board (IFAB), received an open letter from the Professional Footballers’ Association, prominent ex-players, and a top consultant neuropathologist urging changes. But the letter’s recommendations were rejected. “It’s disappointing to hear,” said Penny Watson, wife of former England captain Dave Watson, who now lives with dementia due to multiple concussions suffered in football, “that IFAB do not seem to listen to the suggestions and advice from those eminent people involved in the head injury debate.”

HEEDING THE GUIDANCE OF GOD

Many messages delivered through God’s prophets were calling the people back to obedience. But occasionally, a portion of the people received praise from the Lord. This week’s passage contains a message Isaiah delivered to those in Judah who pursued righteousness and heeded God’s instructions. The Lord promised to destroy those who threatened them and to turn Judah’s deserts into gardens. God knows the ones whose hearts are truly His.

1. When have you ignored experts’ advice to your own detriment?
2. What advantages come to those who pursue righteousness and seek the Lord?
3. How could Isaiah have handled being the bearer of bad news from God so often?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “God Is So Good” by Passion
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Nothing/Something” by Pat Barrett and Dante Brown
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Nothing/Something” by Pat Barrett and Dante Brown
• Guzik’s Commentary on Isaiah 51
• Gill’s Exposition of Isaiah 51
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Isaiah 51

Download “In the World” for June 19, 2022 here.

REVERSAL OF AGING IN MICE

This month, a molecular biologist at Harvard Medical School announced success at resetting certain cells to an earlier age. Dr. David Sinclair’s lab has used special proteins to turn aging cells in mice back into stem cells, essentially reversing the ravages of time. This was done first in old mice with damaged retinas, returning their vision to levels they had in youth. Sinclair has had success with mouse muscles and brains, as well, and is working to reverse aging on a mouse’s entire body. While it will take years of further testing and analysis before any such treatment would be approved for humans, that is the future Sinclair envisions. “We’ve done it in a mouse,” he says. “There’s no reason I can think of why it shouldn’t work in a person, too.”

REVERSAL OF FORTUNE IN ISRAEL

Though God had disciplined the children of Israel for their disobedience and idolatry, He always had their restoration in mind. Through Isaiah, the Lord declared images of reversal, such as the ruined land once again thriving and the depleted population coming to exceed the space available inside their borders. God would bring other nations to give tribute to His people, too, once more lifting up all those who put their hope in Him.

1. If science offered the chance to reverse aging on any one part of your body, which would you choose?
2. What advantages and disadvantages can you foresee if humans gained the ability to stave off death indefinitely?
3. In the Bible, when else did the Lord completely reverse someone’s situation?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Bless His Holy Name”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Jesus” by Phil Thompson
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Jesus” by Phil Thompson
• Guzik’s Commentary on Isaiah 49
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Isaiah 49
• Pulpit Commentary on Isaiah 49

Download “In the World” for June 12, 2022 here.

LIGHT ECLIPSED

On the night of May 15–16, most of the Western hemisphere and beyond were united in witnessing a total lunar eclipse. Because this happened when the moon was near its closest distance to earth (lunar perigee), the moon seemed especially large in the sky. Sunlight refracted through the earth’s atmosphere, tinging its shadow red, giving the eclipsed moon that color, and earning it the status of a “super blood moon.” People from Canada to Argentina and from California to Italy—from dozens of languages, races, and religions—stood together and watched the light of the moon go dim.

LIGHT UNVEILED

Though the children of Israel were convinced that God was theirs alone and that salvation was for the Jewish people only, that had never been God’s design. The prophet Isaiah was frustrated with the hardness of heart among the people, feeling that he had served the Lord in vain. But God’s plan was well under way to make redemption shine forth as a light to all, uniting people from every land, language, and race in Christ.

1. What’s the most spectacular eclipse you’ve ever witnessed?
2. What causes you to feel a kinship with all people, even those who look or speak differently than you do?
3. How do you think Isaiah felt when he heard that God’s salvation was meant for the Gentiles too? How do you think Isaiah’s listeners would’ve felt when they heard it?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “O My Soul, Bless God the Father”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “I’ve Got the Victory” by Alexis Spight
• Music Video, Contemporary: “I Will Sing” by Sandra McCracken
• Guzik’s Commentary on Isaiah 49
• Coffman’s Commentary on Isaiah 49
• JFB Commentary on Isaiah 49

Download “In the World” for June 5, 2022 here.

UNRELIABLE CRIMINALS

Ransomware is a crime in which hackers gain access to a victim’s computer network and demand payment to return control to the owners. Victims range from individuals all the way up to huge companies and even entire cities. Part of the agreed-upon arrangement in ransomware, says cybersecurity expert Charles Carmakal, is that hacker gangs promise to abide by the deal and not simply seize control again tomorrow or release embarrassing data even if the victim pays. But as this crime becomes more mainstream, unscrupulous hackers join in, many with no intention of honoring a deal. Carmakal says victims could pay the ransom and yet still see their data leaked. Such unreliable criminals could give hackers a bad name.

UNRELIABLE SORCERY

The people of Judah in Isaiah’s day had turned to magic spells and astrology to bring them good fortune and protect them from calamity. But the prophet sought to turn them back to the Lord. He delivered God’s warning that soon a disaster would come upon them that they could not dispel with their magic nor ward off with any ransom. All such protections would prove futile and unreliable in the end.

1. Which aspect of computer technology do you like best? Which do you like least?
2. What do you think of the notion of honor among thieves?
3. When have you given up on something unreliable in exchange for more faith in the Lord?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “What a Beautiful Name (Rake & Scrape Remix)” by Rorey Storr
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Joy to Be” by Citizens
• Guzik’s Commentary on Isaiah 47
• JFB Commentary on Isaiah 47
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Isaiah 47

Download “In the World” for May 29, 2022 here.

A NEW LIFE AFTER LEAVING HOLLYWOOD

When she was 9, Melissa Gilbert played Laura Ingalls on Little House on the Prairie. Now, at age 58, she has finally put Hollywood behind and given herself permission to age. Growing up in Tinseltown led Gilbert to pursue superficial standards of youth and beauty. Before long, she was obsessed with her weight and was going down the path of Botox and cosmetic surgery. As she says in her new book, Back to the Prairie, “I finally woke up and went, ‘What am I doing?’” She and her husband moved to the Catskills to restore an old hunting cabin and live in the country. “I’m excited about this,” she says about aging and rediscovering herself. “I love all these changes and watching what’s happening and getting to know this new person.”

A NEW LIFE AFTER COMING TO CHRIST

Paul wrote his letter to the Galatians to remind the believers there that life in Christ meant freedom from and freedom to. Jesus had set them free from all the old behaviors they had come out of—envying, fighting, carousing, sensuality, and the rest. And He had set them free to walk in the Spirit and to enjoy the new person this allowed each one of them to become.

1. Who was your favorite TV star when you were younger?
2. What’s something you had to put behind you to go on to maturity?
3. Which aspect of the fruit of the Spirit do you want more of in your life?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “We Praise Thee, O God, Our Redeemer”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Create in Me” by The Acappella Company
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Create in Me” by The Acappella Company
• Guzik’s Commentary on Galatians 5
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Galatians 5
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Galatians 5

Download “In the World” for May 22, 2022 here.

A RETURN TO THE GOOD OLD DAYS

“Just look at this,” said octogenarian Joaquin Diaz as he led the Cinco de Mayo parade in Saginaw, MI. “We needed this.” Diaz and his late wife, Cruz, founded the city’s parade in 1979. After running annually for fifty years, health concerns over COVID-19 caused the event to be cancelled for the previous two years. This year, with pandemic restrictions lightened, Diaz rode in his pickup ahead of hundreds of vehicles in the parade, delighting the thousands of people who turned out to watch. “It’s so wonderful to be out here again,” he said. “This reminds me of the good old days.”

A RETURN TO THE BAD OLD DAYS

The Apostle Paul had founded the church in Galatia on the solid rock of freedom in Jesus Christ. However, not long after he left, someone tricked the believers into surrendering their freedom and returning to the bad old days of slavery to sin and law. When the news reached Paul, he was baffled. What—short of sorcery or a smooth-talking salesman with something to gain—could convince people walking in freedom to voluntarily downgrade their lives and submit to bondage again? He urged them to resist the lie and fight for their freedom in Christ.

1. What’s something you remember from the good old days that you wish would come back?
2. When have you seen someone knowingly reject a superior solution or return to an inferior way of life?
3. How do Christians today return to a bondage to law or the primitive, pre-Christian life of unbelievers?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” by Celtic Worship
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Wait on You” by Janice Gaines
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” by Celtic Worship
• Guzik’s Commentary on Galatians 5
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Galatians 5
• Martin Luther’s Commentary on Galatians 5

Download “In the World” for May 15, 2022 here.

UNITED FOR UKRAINE

In a time when American politics is seemingly more factional than ever, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has united Americans to a refreshing degree. Early this month, results were released from an ABC/Washington Post poll about the war. A whopping seventy-six percent of Americans polled were in favor of providing even more support to Ukraine in the form of humanitarian aid. There are many factors involved here, experts say, but one reason for this show of support is Americans’ love of a heroic figure. “The image of a young and charismatic leader courageously leading his country in a time of war has also galvanized support,” said George Washington University assistant professor Michelle Kelso. She said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy “is, for us, an underdog. We love the underdog in this country.”

UNITED IN FREEDOM IN CHRIST

When Judaizers from Jerusalem came to the church in Galatia, Paul was concerned that the new believers there would fall away from the grace of the free gift of salvation in Christ. He wrote to them, stressing that there are no superior/inferior divisions within humanity when it comes to Christ. Before salvation, all people are united under the condemnation of sin because of the Law. And after salvation, all those who believe in Christ are united in their freedom from bondage. Against those who want to put them again into slavery, believers must stand firm in Christ.

1. What are your hopes and fears regarding the war in Ukraine?
2. When have you found yourself unexpectedly united with someone you would not normally connect with?
3. Why does Paul need believers to understand that all social, ethnic, racial, and other divisions are erased in Christ?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “O Worship the King All Glorious Above”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Make Us One” by Beijing International Christian Fellowship
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Make Us One” by Beijing International Christian Fellowship
• Guzik’s Commentary on Galatians 3
• Martin Luther’s Commentary on Galatians 3
• Gill’s Exposition of Galatians 3

Download “In the World” for May 8, 2022 here.

AN END TO A BEAR CUB’S SUFFERING

Sometime in early 2022, a bear cub in the Appalachian region of Tennessee was hit by a vehicle but survived its injuries. However, late last month, officers with the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Association found the cub greatly underweight and struggling with months-old injuries. They contacted Appalachian Bear Rescue (ABR) personnel, who rushed the yearling to the University of Tennessee College of Veterinarian Medicine. However, the wounds were too severe, and the vets made the painful decision to end the cub’s suffering. “This bear was one of ours,” said an ABR spokesperson, who also commented that they’d named the cub Caledon Bear, which means tough.

AN END TO OUR SUFFERING

When Adam and Eve disobeyed God, the consequences reached beyond humankind and extended to Creation itself. We still groan under sin and illness and broken relationships. The world of nature groans too, suffering under decay and fear. But because of Jesus’ incarnation, death, resurrection, and ascension, all of this suffering will one day come to a positive end—not only for those who follow Christ but also for the universe He created.

1. When have you taken steps to end some form of suffering?
2. In what ways do you long for an end to the suffering we face in this world?
3. What does Paul mean when he says that creation is suffering the pain of childbirth?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” by Reawaken Hymns
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Lord, You Are Good” by Todd Galbreath
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Time and Time Again” by Local Sound
• Guzik’s Commentary on Romans 8
• Coffman’s Commentary on Romans 8
• Gill’s Exposition of Romans 8

Download “In the World” for May 1, 2022 here.

PLAYING FOR ANOTHER TEAM

NBA stars CJ McCollum and Damian Lillard spent nearly nine seasons playing together with the Portland Trail Blazers. Then for this season, McCollum was traded to New Orleans, where he helped lead the Pelicans to the 2022 playoffs. For over eight years, McCollum and Lillard became close friends and adapted their play styles to enhance the strengths of the other. This year, Lillard had to watch his friend play in a different jersey. “It’s weird, man,” Lillard said. “It’s weird to see him enjoying playing with somebody else. It’s almost like a little bit of jealousy, like…man, he’s having fun playing with them.” But when the trade happened, it did make sense to Lillard. “Look at their team: They got the talent; they got the youth mixed with a little bit of experience—and you throw [CJ] into the mix, and you really got something.”

SERVING ANOTHER MASTER

Before salvation, every person serves sin. Paul says we’re all slaves to sin outside of the Lord. But when we come to Christ, we switch teams. We switch alliances and masters, and we become available to serve Jesus instead. Paul speaks of it as a death and resurrection. New Christians are set free to offer themselves as slaves not to sin but to the risen Lord.

1. When has someone you had partnered with become allied with a new person or group? How did you feel about it?
2. In what ways can someone be enslaved to sin?
3. How can Christians make sure they never enter again into slavery to sin?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “From All that Dwell Below the Skies”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “I Won’t Go Back” by William McDowell
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Up and Alive” by Chris Sayburn
• Guzik’s Commentary on Romans 6
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Romans 6
• Ellicott’s Commentary on Romans 6

Download “In the World” for April 24, 2022 here.

IN BONDAGE TO FEAR

Earlier this month, a Utah man slammed his car into a man sitting on a parked motorcycle. Surveillance video shows the car approaching and then accelerating toward the man and motorcycle. The car hits, sending the bike crashing away and the rider upside-down in the air and off the hood. Miraculously, the rider hops to his feet, mostly uninjured. But the driver leaps from the car and attacks the man. The driver fled but was soon arrested. He insisted that he believed the unarmed motorcyclist was a hitman who had been hired to assassinate him. He said he’d had a hit out on him since 2009 and decided that it was time to kill or be killed. His bondage to a fear of death caused him to try to kill an innocent man.

SET FREE BY THE SON

Jesus told some Jews who had believed in Him that they needed to be set free from their bondage, and He said He was the one who could grant their freedom. This offended them, and they made the outrageous claim that they were free and had never been slaves of anyone. Jesus primarily meant that they were slaves to sin, and yet this offended them even more. Nevertheless, He promised that they could be set free—free indeed—by the Son of God.

1. What’s the most serious traffic accident you’ve ever witnessed or been part of?
2. When do fears, especially irrational fears, tend to come upon you?
3. Why do you think the Jewish believers were offended by Jesus’ words about freedom?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Great Is the Lord” by Michael W. Smith
• Music Video, Multicultural: “You Are Good” by Casey J
• Music Video, Contemporary: “There Is a Day” by Lou Fellingham
• Guzik’s Commentary on John 8
• Constable’s Exposition of John 8
• Gill’s Exposition of John 8

Download “In the World” for April 17, 2022 here.

IRISH FEMALE SCIENTISTS RESURRECTED THROUGH TECHNOLOGY

In many nations, there is a serious shortage of young women entering fields of science and engineering. An effort in Irish classrooms is seeking to help correct that through clever technology. A new phone app called Volu uses 3D holograms of female pioneers from Ireland’s scientific history to engage the interest of girls at the high school level. The scientists are depicted by actresses in full animation and sound, and their moving images can be placed into real-world scenes via the Volu app on a smart phone. It’s a versatile and innovative use of augmented reality that brings famous Irish female scientists back to life and into our modern lives. “Lots of women aren’t really into science and things,” said one female high school student. “So seeing women actually achieving that…it really helps. Because it they can do it, you can do it too.”

THE SAVIOR OF THE WORLD RESURRECTED FOR ETERNITY

Early in the morning on the day of Jesus’ resurrection, two women who loved Him experienced an earthquake at the tomb and encountered a powerful angel. The angel reminded them that Jesus had predicted His death and resurrection, and he announced that it had happened as He had promised. They turned to obey the angel’s command to inform the disciples of the resurrection. As they ran, they met the risen Lord and worshipped Him. Their faith and love had been rewarded with the first revelation that Jesus had conquered death for us all.

1. If you wanted to interest young people in some field of study, how would you go about doing it?
2. What does it mean that women were the first to know of Jesus’ resurrection?
3. How would the world be different if everyone knew the true meaning of Easter?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “My God, How Wonderful Thou Art”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Respond” by Travis Greene
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Respond” by Travis Greene
• Guzik’s Commentary on Matthew 28
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Matthew 28
• Pulpit Commentary on Matthew 28

Download “In the World” for April 10, 2022 here.

EXPECTING A REWARD FOR LOYALTY

Most fast-food chains in the United States have customer loyalty programs. It’s reached the point where restaurants that don’t offer such programs “run the risk of falling behind,” according to an article by PYMNTS.com. The article, entitled “Restaurant Loyalty Holdouts Get on Board as Consumers Expect to Be Rewarded,” explains how, in March, two notable restaurant chains—Carl’s Jr. and IHOP—launched their own programs to reward frequent customers. “In today’s digital-first age,” said Chad Crawford, chief brand officer of the company that owns Carl’s Jr., “we want to reward our loyal customers in a fun and engaging way.” Only twenty percent of restaurants that allow mobile ordering do not have loyalty programs, so the holdouts may find they had better reward their frequent customers or risk losing them.

HOPING TO BE FOUND LOYAL

While eating His last Passover meal with His disciples, Jesus revealed that one of them would betray Him. One after another, they protested their loyalty to Jesus, saying, “Is it me, Lord? Surely it can’t be me, can it?” They were desperate to prove themselves loyal, and they longed for Jesus’ assurance that their hearts were true. We don’t know what, if anything, Jesus replied to each one. But when Judas Iscariot said, “Jesus, is it me?” Jesus responded, “You have said it yourself.” Jesus lays bare the thoughts of every person.

1. Why are customer loyalty programs suddenly so important for businesses today?
2. What contrasts can be made between the loyalty of modern consumers and the disciples at the Last Supper?
3. How can you know if your heart is loyal to the Lord?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Holy, Holy, Holy Is the Lord”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Where You’re Moving” by Benita Jones
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Holding On to Your Love” by InSalvation
• Guzik’s Commentary on Matthew 26
• Coffman’s Commentary on Matthew 26
• Pulpit Commentary on Matthew 26

Download “In the World” for April 3, 2022 here.

A HUMBLE LEGISLATOR IN INDIA

In March, Indian legislator Bhagwant Mann won an election to become the next chief minister of the Aam Aadami Party. In a speech to his fellow victorious party members, he urged them to reject the typical behavior of other politicians in their shoes and instead remain humble. “We should not be arrogant,” he said. “You are also the [representatives] of those who did not vote for you.” Instead of moving to the regional capital and staying there, as many do, Mann encouraged them to go out to the people. “Stay in Chandigarh for the least possible time. We have to go and do work at those places where we went and asked for votes,” he said. “Go sit in villages and meet people. Have tea, speak to people about their problems, take officials with you.”

A HUMBLE KING IN JERUSALEM

Though many in Jesus’ day longed for a Jewish military leader like David who could rally the people and drive out the Romans, this had never been God’s plan. Jesus indicated what sort of kingdom He was instituting by arriving in Jerusalem not astride a massive warhorse but on the back of the foal of a donkey. Everyone watching would be reminded of Zechariah’s prophecy that said the king who came to bring salvation would ride humbly upon the back of a donkey’s colt. Jesus had come to eliminate war and bring peace.

1. How do you think politicians should behave after they win an election and take office?
2. How can government officials serve even those who did not vote for them?
3. In what ways have you seen God behave differently than what you expected?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “The Earth Shall Know” by Urban Doxology
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Let There Be Wonder” by Matt Redman
• Guzik’s Commentary on Matthew 21
• Clarke’s Commentary on Matthew 21
• Pulpit Commentary on Matthew 21

Download “In the World” for March 27, 2022 here.

GRATEFUL FOR THE CAT

A nighttime tornado ripped through Florida this month, tearing away a roof and wall of some apartments in Ocala. One woman was awakened by her cat acting oddly and crying from the kitchen. She got up to see what the cat’s problem was, and just when she got to the kitchen, the tornado tore away the walls and roof of her bedroom. “She moved at just the right time,” said the woman’s neighbor. “If she didn’t move, she would’ve been right there” when the tornado hit.

GRATEFUL FOR THE LORD

At the end of the forty years of wandering in the wilderness, the children of Israel were instructed by God to remember how He had taken care of them. Their shoes hadn’t worn out and the feet hadn’t swelled. He had disciplined them as a loving father disciplines a child, but His intent was always to bless them. The Lord wanted them to remember His kindness when they got into the plentiful land He was about to bring them into.

1. Has an animal ever warned you of something you wouldn’t have known about otherwise? What happened?
2. Why do we have to be taught to be grateful or to notice when someone has done us a kindness?
3. What helps you trust God’s ways when things seem to be going badly around you?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” by Alabama
• Music Video, Multicultural: “I Am Devoted” by Noel Robinson
• Music Video, Contemporary: “King Jesus” by Brooke Ligertwood
• Guzik’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 8
• Coffman’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 8
• Pulpit Commentary on Deuteronomy 8

Download “In the World” for March 20, 2022 here.

RESCUED FROM UKRAINE

In the early days of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, business owner Vladislav Guristrimba awoke to explosions and missile strikes near his home. Russian missiles were bombarding Kiev’s airport, not far from the Guristrimba residence. Vladislav and his wife, Dariya, made hasty plans, and three days later they and their five children fled the fighting to meet up with Dariya’s parents. In the city of Sokryany, on the border with Moldova, Vladislav got the family to safety. But instead of joining them in the rescue, Vladislav remained in Ukraine to help other families find their way to safety. Using his resources and contacts, he arranged for the escape of others to Moldova and Poland. “I’m not going to fight,” Vladislav said, “because I’m not military. My value is as a manager. I can be a manager in a military system or a volunteer system.”

RESCUED FROM BABYLON

After the Jewish captives had lived so long in Babylonian exile, the new ruler—Darius of Persia—allowed them to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. Under Ezra’s leadership, the Temple was rebuilt, and in the sixth year of Darius’s reign, the people dedicated the house of the Lord by celebrating Passover. Their relief and joy over how God had rescued them overflowed in seven days of celebration.

1. What emotions has the invasion of Ukraine brought up in you?
2. If an invasion happened in your nation, what would you do?
3. When have you been rescued from something? How did you celebrate?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “The Love of God”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Jireh” by Elevation Worship & Maverick City
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Tear the Veil” by Nathan Jess
• Guzik’s Commentary on Ezra 6
• Gill’s Exposition of Ezra 6
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Ezra 6

Download “In the World” for March 13, 2022 here.

NOT FREE TO WORSHIP IN IRELAND

During his six-year enslavement in Ireland, the young Briton who became known as St. Patrick was not free to worship Jesus. He served pagan masters and could not openly pray to the Lord. Though he was the son and grandson of Christian ministers in England, the young man named Maewyn Succat had not shown much interest in the things of Christ before the Irish raiders had appeared on the horizon. But over his years of hard labor in Ireland, he came to call upon Jesus with his whole heart. When he escaped and returned to England, he was finally free to worship the Lord who had saved him. It wouldn’t be long before that Lord would call young Patrick back to bring the light of life to his former captors.

FREE TO WORSHIP IN ISRAEL

After seventy years in captivity, the Jewish people were allowed to leave Babylon and return to Israel. The conqueror, King Cyrus of Persia, was perhaps keen to get all the people (and gods) of Nebuchadnezzar’s conquests to look favorably upon him and his new empire. So he was generous with freedom, supplies, and edicts to help the departing peoples go home and reinvigorate their religions. The letter he wrote to protect the returning Jewish exiles ensured they would be able to worship freely in Jerusalem and throughout Israel.

1. What would it take for you, like Patrick, to be willing to offer salvation to the people who have mistreated you?
2. How can the superstitions of non-Christians sometimes aid the cause of Christ?
3. What would you do if you were suddenly not free to worship the Lord?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Oh, the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus” by Simon Khoralskiy
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Oh, the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus” by Simon Khoralskiy
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Oh, the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus” by Simon Khoralskiy
• Guzik’s Commentary on Ezra 6
• Pulpit Commentary on Ezra 6
• Gill’s Exposition of Ezra 6

Download “In the World” for March 6, 2022 here.

LIONS RETURN TO THEIR HOMELAND

Four adult African lions—named Angela, Bellone, Säida, and Louga—have been returned to Africa after being part of a French traveling circus. The big cats, all born in captivity, were removed from the circus in 2018 and looked after by experts. They were set to be transported in 2019 to a sanctuary in South Africa by Born Free, an international wildlife charity. Then COVID-19 hit, and the plans were put on hold. But last month, the lions finally stepped onto African soil. “Lions in lockdown have had a long arduous journey,” said Catherine Gilson, Manager of Shamwari Private Game Reserve, “but [these lions] are settling in so well [with their other lions]. We have just seen them all under a tree together in the shade sheltering from heat here, which is a great relief for us.”

EXILES RETURN TO THEIR HOMELAND

After the Babylonian Captivity, any Jewish captives who wished to return to Israel were allowed to do so by the new king, Cyrus of Persia. He issued a decree that his own citizens should provide the returning exiles with silver, gold, and livestock. Moreover, Cyrus returned to the exiles thousands of gold and silver items that had been pillaged from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. Cyrus instructed the exiles to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem, and more than 40,000 Jewish people accepted the offer and went back to their homeland.

1. When have you had a “going home” moment? Did it live up to your expectations?
2. Why do you think Cyrus was so generous in giving away all that gold and silver, not to mention captives?
3. If you had been born in Babylon and had never seen Israel, do you think you would want to go there when given a chance? Why or why not?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Come Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy” by Fernando Ortega
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Come Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy” by Fernando Ortega
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Come Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy” by Fernando Ortega
• Guzik’s Commentary on Ezra 1 and Ezra 2
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Ezra 1 and Ezra 2
• Pulpit Commentary for Ezra 1 and Ezra 2

Download “In the World” for February 27, 2022  here.

WHEN THE UNIFORM IS TOO BIG

During the recently concluded Winter Olympics in Beijing, five female Japanese ski jumpers were disqualified because of their uniforms. The thigh portions of the team’s suits were found to fit 2cm too loosely, which could give an aerodynamic advantage. “I am very sorry that the chance of winning a medal has been taken away from the Japanese team,” said ski jumper Sara Takanashi. “It is an undeniable fact that my disqualification changed everyone’s lives. Even if I apologize, the [chance for a] medal will not be returned.”

WHEN THE SELF IS TOO BIG

While Job was challenged by his friends and wife to accept their sometimes-false views of God, he stood firm and maintained his innocence. However, he did finally complain to God that he had been treated unfairly. The Lord reminded Job that God is the Almighty One and Job is a mere human. Thus returned to his proper reverence and fear of the Lord, Job humbled himself and repented in dust and ashes, and God again blessed him bountifully.

1. On the whole, do you tend to be a stickler for the rules, or do you prefer to let things slide? Why?
2. How might we compare Job’s sense of smallness before God with our own culture’s emphasis on throwing off authority in order to “live our own truth”?
3. What other examples can you think of in which someone humbled himself and God raised him up?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” by Paul Baloche
• Music Video, Multicultural: “What a Beautiful Name (Spanish & English)” by Hillsong
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Yet Not I, But Through Christ in Me” by Mission House & Citizens (Revere)
• Guzik’s Commentary on Job 42
• Pulpit Commentary on Job 42
• Coffman’s Commentary on Job 42

Download “In the World” for February 20, 2022 here.

BLAMED FOR THEIR OWN ATTACK

“In deeply patriarchal conservative societies, women have been the victims of inequality since time immemorial.” So said a female writer named Kabir in The Kashmir Observer. She wrote in response to an acid attack this month. In Hawal, a city near the northern tip of India, a man asked a 24-year-old woman to marry him. She declined his offer, so he and two others tracked her down and splashed acid on her face. According to a hospital official, “Nine percent of her face has been completely burned.” Kabir criticized the patriarchal tendency of blaming the victim for angering or humiliating the man. Such attacks by males in her culture can be explained, she says, “by how men see any attack on their power as an opportunity to resist through inflicting punishment on the opposite gender.”

BLAMED FOR HIS OWN TRAGEDY

As Job lay on the ashes mourning the tragic death of his children, his friend Bildad informed him that the children were obviously killed because of their sins against God. He seems to be chiding Job for his sadness, and possibly rebuking him as a father…because if he and his children had done the right thing, none of this would’ve happened.

1. Have you ever witnessed an example of victim blaming? Describe the incident.
2. Why do you think Bildad said what he did to Job?
3. What’s something helpful we can say to someone who is in grief?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Love Lifted Me” by Encounter Music 
• Music Video, Multicultural: “My Love Song” by Stephen Hurd
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Ancient of Days” by Mark Barlow, Phil Thompson, Aaron Lindsey (Revere)
• Guzik’s Commentary on Job 8
• Pulpit Commentary on Job 8 
• Benson Commentary on Job 8

Download “In the World” for February 13, 2022 here.

GUIDELINES FOR A SUGAR-FREE VALENTINE’S DAY

Diabetics and others wanting to cut down on sugar may look on Valentine’s Day with dread. But confectioners have made great strides in recent years to provide delicious treats that have low or zero impact on glucose levels. This Valentine’s Day, you can choose sugar-free gummy bears, zero sugar Reese’s peanut butter cups, sugar-free Jolly Ranchers, and more. But you can still get sick to your stomach eating too much candy, even if it’s sugar-free. Viola Holmes, associate director of nutrition science and health care for the American Diabetes Association, says this is because of the sugar alcohols sometimes used to sweeten these treats. “You should still practice some form of portion control,” Holmes says, “because some sugar alcohols, like sorbitol, for instance, can cause abdominal discomfort.”

GUIDELINES FOR A GODLY LIFE

At the end of the Babylonian Exile, Ezra led a group of priests, Levites, and other religious workers back to Jerusalem to revive the Temple. The Bible indicates that Ezra had devoted his life to the study and observance of the guidelines included in God’s Law, a factor that may have led directly to the Lord’s hand being on him so firmly. God grants favor to those who serve Him wholeheartedly.

1. What are your best memories related to Valentine’s Day—or sweets?
2. When have you known the hand of God upon you or someone you know?
3. What guideline from God’s Word is helping you today?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Perfect Father” by Aaron Lindsay
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Perfect Father” by Aaron Lindsay
• Guzik’s Commentary on Ezra 7
• Pett’s Commentary on Ezra 7
• JFB Commentary on Ezra 7

Download “In the World” for February 6, 2022 here.

CALLING OUT A PRIME MINISTER

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson faces a challenge to his leadership after reports of a series of parties he or his staff hosted during strict COVID-19 lockdown rules. While Britons abode by rules to not gather with more than one person outside their household—voluntarily being cut off from family and friends—Johnson and his guests were drinking, dancing, and partying until all hours. The night before Queen Elizabeth’s husband’s funeral, a party at the prime minister’s residence went until midnight. The next day, the queen sat alone at the funeral, obeying the social distancing rules. Many reported Johnson’s string of rule-breaking gatherings, and calls for Johnson’s firing increased rapidly.

CALLING OUT A KING

Though God had given King David the throne and great wealth and power, David nevertheless sinned with Bathsheba and had her husband, Uriah, killed. Though his sin remained a secret from most in his kingdom, it was not hidden from the eyes of the Lord. God sent the prophet Nathan to David with a brilliant parable that showed David the horrible evil of his crime … and cut him to the quick. David repented, and God relented in some of His punishment, but both Uriah and Bathsheba’s son died as a result of David’s actions. Nathan’s courage in obeying God to call out a king saved David and the kingdom from greater consequences.

1. How does it make you feel when a leader violates restrictions that you yourself have obeyed?
2. Our society loves to cast down leaders for their injustices, real or imagined. How can you tell the difference between true injustice and lesser trespasses like poor judgment, etc.?
3. What do you think was going through Nathan’s mind when he approached his friend and king to tell him God’s judgment?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “There Is Power in the Blood” by Angela Primm
• Music Video, Multicultural: “The Battle Is the Lord’s” by Ron Kenoly
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Run and Hide” by Mitch Wong & Kayla Berry (Revere)
• Guzik’s Commentary on 2 Samuel 12
• Coffman’s Commentary on 2 Samuel 12
• Clarke’s Commentary on 2 Samuel 12 

Download “In the World” for January 30, 2022 here.

PROVIDING FOR THE POOREST IN MODERN INDIA

The state government of Rajasthan, India, has provided benefits for its poorest citizens during the pandemic. They have paid benefits to more than 14,000 orphans and widows of COVID-19. The expenditures, which began in June of last year, have exceeded one billion rupees (nearly $14 million USD). The government has provided both one-time and monthly payments to these orphans, promising to continue until they reach the age of 18. Free education through grade 12 has been provided to these children, along with a monthly pension for the widows. Help is also available to the homeless of the state, as well, including those out in the villages. “As [many] such people are unaware about the facilities including free stay, free food and medical aid,” said judge Dinesh Kumar Gupta, “we will create awareness about the program and its benefits.”

PROVIDING FOR THE POOREST IN ANCIENT ISRAEL

Landowners and farmers in Old Testament Israel were instructed to provide for the poorest among them, as well. Their fields weren’t to be scrupulously reaped, nor were their orchards to be utterly harvested. The extras were to be left for the poor, including widows, orphans, and those not even from among God’s people. Generosity was built right in to their daily rhythms.

1. How is the government intervention in Rajasthan similar to what you have seen from your local or national government during COVID-19? How does it differ?
2. How have you seen the Church rising up to help those affected by COVID?
3. What can we learn about the character of God from the instructions he gave about leaving part of the harvest for the poor, the fatherless, the widow, and the foreigner?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “How Firm a Foundation” by Chelsea Moon & the Franz Brothers
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Breakthrough” by Mandisa
• Music Video, Contemporary: “No Other God” by Steph Macleod
• Guzik’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 24
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 24
• Pulpit Commentary on Deuteronomy 24

Download “In the World” for January 23, 2022 here.

FINE THOSE WHO FLOUT THE LAW

Neighborhoods in Scottsdale, Arizona, just got a little quieter, thanks to a new ordinance. It used to be that neighbors could do very little about loud parties outside homes occupied by short-term renters. The new ordinance requires that the property owners furnish police with an emergency contact number. If the police serve a notice and no one has corrected the problem within an hour, the owners receive a fine of $750. And on each subsequent offense, the fine goes up, reaching nearly $2,500 for a fourth offense. “We just want them [renters] to have a good time and enjoy themselves,” says Scottsdale police sergeant Kevin Quon, “while still respecting the neighborly type of feel that we grow to expect in Scottsdale.”

EXECUTE THOSE WHO FLOUT THE LAW

As God’s people wandered in the wilderness under Moses, they too had people who tended to disregard laws and legal decisions handed down by judges chosen by the Lord. The judges were under strict instructions to pursue justice faithfully, rejecting bribes and other perversions of justice. But if anyone showed contempt for the judge God had chosen, he was to be put to death to send a message to the rest of Israel not to be contemptuous again.

1. What are effective and ineffective ways of making sure people follow rules, ordinances, and laws?
2. Why is it dangerous if officials have no way of enforcing rules, ordinances, or laws?
3. What behaviors do you think would disappear overnight if death were the penalty for doing them?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “The Old Rugged Cross” by Fountainview Academy
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Alpha and Omega” by Geoffrey Golden (Revere)
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Alpha and Omega” by Geoffrey Golden (Revere)
• Guzik’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 16 and Deuteronomy 17
• Coffman’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 16 and Deuteronomy 17
• Gill’s Exposition of Deuteronomy 16 and Deuteronomy 17

Download “In the World” for January 16, 2022 here.

PRESSURED TO FIT IN

Today, peer pressure among young people often takes the form of “challenges” issued on Tik-Tok and other social media platforms. There have been challenges to eat laundry detergent pods, steal large items from school bathrooms, style one’s hair using gorilla glue, and strangle oneself within an inch of death. A recent example is the “dry scoop challenge,” which involves eating energy drink powder without first adding water. This has been linked to at least one heart attack, and doctors are adamant against it. Still, children and teens try it in hopes of gaining affirmation from peers. “Kids are biologically built to become much more susceptible to peers in adolescence,” said Mitchell Prinstein, of the American Psychological Association. “And social media has magnified those peer influence processes to be much, much more dangerous than they were before…. These kids are being influenced at a level that’s beyond their conscious awareness.”

PRESSURED TO DO WRONG

Today’s passage involves matters of justice among the Israelites during Moses’ leadership. When the majority favored one side over the other, others were inclined to side with that group regardless of guilt or innocence. God commanded them not to pervert justice for any reason, and certainly not to fit in with peers.

1. What’s the worst example of peer pressure you know of?
2. Why is peer pressure so powerful?
3. How can we be on the side of right even when the pressure to fit in is so strong?

Additional Links

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Amazing Grace” from 50 Countries
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Amazing Grace” from 50 Countries
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Amazing Grace” from 50 Countries 
• Guzik’s Commentary on Exodus 23
• Pulpit Commentary on Exodus 23
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Exodus 23

www.standardlesson.com/category/in-the-world
Copyright © 2022 by Standard Publishing, part of the David C Cook family.
All rights reserved. Each download is for the use of one church only.

Download “In the World” for January 9, 2022 here.

POEM FOR THE EXPAT

This past fall, Danielle Obisie-Orlu was named Youth Poet Laureate of Allegheny County (Pennsylvania). The University of Pittsburgh junior was born in Washington, D.C., to Nigerian parents, and she was raised mainly in South Africa. She has always felt like something of an outcast, and this comes through in her poetry, including “Poem for the Expat,” which won her the title of Youth Poet Laureate. “My personal experiences of growing up as a dark-skinned Black woman in South Africa and the U.S. have really shaped how I hold myself.” Her passion to build bridges across cultural and racial divides is summed up in the African concept of ubuntu. “Ubuntu … [is] an approach to life that’s about valuing human dignity in one another,” she explains. It is the quest to “get to a place where I can say, ‘I recognize my humanity within you.’”

MERCY FOR THE OUTCAST

When Sarah had her son, Isaac, by Abraham, she wanted to be rid of Hagar and Ishmael. She urged Abraham to get rid of them, but Abraham was distressed by the idea. God assured him that He would not only protect the child but raise him up into a great nation. When the baby cried from thirst in the desert, the angel of God called out to Hagar, guided her to a well, and saved the lives of the outcasts.

1. What is your favorite poem, and why?
2. Who do we find it easiest to see dignity and humanity in? Who do we find it hardest to see these in?
3. What does it say about God’s character that He treated Hagar and Ishmael as He did?

Additional Links

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Jesu, Lover of My Soul”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Sing to Jesus” by Fernando Ortega
• Music Video, Contemporary: “By the Grace of God” by Tim Hughes
• Guzik’s Commentary on Genesis 21
• Pulpit Commentary on Genesis 21
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Genesis 21

www.standardlesson.com/category/in-the-world
Copyright © 2022 by Standard Publishing, part of the David C Cook family.
All rights reserved. Each download is for the use of one church only.

Download “In the World” for January 2, 2022 here.

GRIEVING OVER THE DEATH OF A SISTER

“That must’ve been so hard on your parents.” That’s a phrase often heard by the siblings of someone who has died, especially if the person died young. The grief of the brothers or sisters is sometimes considered less important or painful, explained UK therapist Jennifer Park. The grieving siblings can even take “on the role of helping out, making sure other people are okay, so their own grief gets lost.” Three sisters who lost their fourth sister in adulthood found little help for sibling grief, so they decided to do something about it. “We wanted to change the landscape of sibling loss,” said Maeveen Brown. “We launched Sibling Grief Club to provide an online resource and community that adult siblings could utilize, so they never have to feel alone in their grief again.” Brown said they have found that the amount of grief isn’t determined by the age of the person who died but by the love the sibling had for that person. “If you love hard, you will grieve hard.”

DEFIANT OVER THE DEATH OF A BROTHER

Today’s passage concerns the first murder in the history of humanity. Cain killed his brother, Abel, because he could not master the anger that was roused when God accepted Abel’s sacrifice and not Cain’s. Not only did Cain kill his brother, he lied—and expressed defiance about it—to God. God’s judgment on Cain was severe, but even then, the Lord was merciful to the sinner.

1. Who do you know who has had to hide his or her grief in order to spare someone else’s pain?
2. What has helped you grieve through a loss of your own?
3. Why do you think Cain became angry enough that he would kill his own brother?

Additional Links

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Turn Your Eyes on Jesus” by Lauren Daigle
• Music Video, Multicultural: “We Seek Your Kingdom”
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Oh My Soul” by Ben & Noelle Kilgore
• Guzik’s Commentary on Genesis 4
• Pulpit Commentary on Genesis 4
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Genesis 4

www.standardlesson.com/category/in-the-world
Copyright © 2022 by Standard Publishing, part of the David C Cook family.
All rights reserved. Each download is for the use of one church only.

Download “In the World” for December 26, 2021 here.

THE QUICK ANGER OF MAN

In September, when the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan, their retribution was as swift as it was unjust. Certain groups were primarily targeted. Among them were female judges, especially those who had sentenced Afghan men to prison for violence against women. “They feel like it’s their right to find me, to hit me, to kill me,” said a female judge named Bibi, since now “they don’t have anyone to be afraid of.” Many of these women are trying to flee Afghanistan, but most remain in hiding, moving from house to house. Their danger came quickly, as soon as the old regime fell. “A day or two after the Taliban arrived in Kabul,” said a judge named Nabila, “my personal number was called and I was threatened with revenge, threatened with murder.” Bibi is hiding with her three young children, but she lives in fear. “My kids … they can’t see their mother being killed.”

THE SLOW ANGER OF GOD

The Lord’s anger at the Kingdom of Assyria was long in the building. He had graciously sent Jonah to preach a warning to the capital city of Nineveh, which the Assyrians heeded. But this did not change their ways for long, and they renewed their attacks against the Kingdom of Judah. Finally, God had had enough, and He sent Micah to carry word of Assyria’s impending downfall. The Lord’s anger is slow, but when it is kindled for His people, it cannot be resisted.

1. When have you seen human anger flash out? When have you seen someone slow to anger?
2. Why are you grateful that God is slow to anger?
3. Why did the Ninevites’ repentance in Jonah’s time not continue?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Will Your Anchor Hold?”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Illuminate the Shadows” from The Porter’s Gate
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Illuminate the Shadows” from The Porter’s Gate
• Guzik’s Commentary on Nahum 1
• Pulpit Commentary on Nahum 1
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Nahum 1

www.standardlesson.com/category/in-the-world
Copyright © 2021 by Standard Publishing, part of the David C Cook family.
All rights reserved. Each download is for the use of one church only.

Download “In the World” for December 19, 2021 here.

CORRUPTION IN GOVERNMENT

In October, the leader of Austria—Chancellor Sebastian Kurz (35)—resigned amidst accusations of corruption. He and nine other individuals plus three organizations were accused of using government money to gain favorable coverage in a prominent newspaper and other daily media. Bribery and manipulated content, including doctored opinion surveys, were used to generate a consistently positive view of his administration. Kurz maintained his innocence and said he resigned “to make space to guarantee stability.”

GOVERNING WITH RIGHTEOUSNESS

At Christmas, we remember Isaiah’s prophecy of a child who would be born to be a great light for people living in darkness, The government would be on this child’s shoulders, and He would establish His kingdom with justice and righteousness. Our passage today reminds us of how much greater the rule of Christ will be.

1. Who is or was the finest elected official you know of? Why do you think that person was elected?
2. Why do governments seem prone to corruption?
3. In what ways does the government foreseen in Isaiah 9 stand in contrast to governments today?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use.

If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “When They Ring Those Golden Bells” by Patsy Cline & Loretta Lynn
• Music Video, Multicultural: “I Can’t Stay Here” by David & Nicole Binion
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Light of All the Earth” by Matt Marvane
• Guzik’s Commentary on Isaiah 9
• Pulpit Commentary on Isaiah 9
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Isaiah 9

www.standardlesson.com/category/in-the-world
Copyright © 2021 by Standard Publishing, part of the David C Cook family.
All rights reserved. Each download is for the use of one church only.

Download “In the World” for December 12, 2021 here.

INSPIRING CHILDREN TO SHOW KINDNESS

Last month, the subscription programming service Apple TV+ debuted a children’s program called Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show. With more than a few similarities to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, the new show features actor Jack McBrayer, famous for his broad smile and “infectious positivity.” The show was developed by Angela C. Santomero, creator of Blue’s Clues and co-author of a book entitled Radical Kindness: The Life-Changing Power of Giving and Receiving. Apple says Hello, Jack! aims to “ignite kindness through exploring empathy, humor, playfulness and imagination.” In a time when things can seem dark and scary to children, a show that inspires them to show kindness to others is a welcome development.

INSPIRED TO SHOW KINDNESS TO A FRIEND’S CHILD

When King David was at the height of his reign, having subdued the enemies on all sides, his mind turned to his late friend Jonathan. He wished to do some kindness to Jonathan’s family, so he investigated whether or not any of his relatives remained alive. He found Mephibosheth, a crippled son of Jonathan, and brought him to his palace. He returned to the young man all the land that had belonged to his father, Jonathan, and his grandfather, King Saul, and he invited him to dine at the king’s own table regularly.

1. Of what benefit is a television program that models kindness to children?
2. When have you shown kindness to one person because of gratitude to someone else?
3. How could God’s kindness to us inspire us to show kindness to others?

Additional Links

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “What Are They Doing in Heaven?” by Babbie Mason
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Waking Up” by Bobby Alexandre, Common Hymnal
• Music Video, Contemporary: “Rest on Us” by Bright City
• Guzik’s Commentary on 2 Samuel 9
• Pulpit Commentary on 2 Samuel 9
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on 2 Samuel 9

www.standardlesson.com/category/in-the-world
Copyright © 2021 by Standard Publishing, part of the David C Cook family.
All rights reserved. Each download is for the use of one church only.

Download “In the World” for December 5, 2021 here.

A SIGN TO WARN OF DANGER

In October, a 43-year-old man was killed after being washed off a jetty in Crescent City, CA. There are signs and fences warning people against going out at high tide, but these are often disregarded. Crescent City leadership member Rick Shepherd has since suggested that new signs be put up, saying that anyone who disregards warning signs and then has to be rescued will be charged up to $12,000 for the effort (assuming they live). “A lot of times,” Shepherd said, “it jeopardizes our search and rescue [folks] to go out there and try to rescue people” who have ignored the warning signs.

A SIGN TO REMEMBER GOD’S FAITHFULNESS

Before God had brought the children of Israel into the promised land, He gave them commands for what to do when it did come to pass. He instructed them to pile up uncut stones on the far bank of the Jordan River, whitewashing them and then writing the Law on them. This was to be a sign and a memorial to them and their children, reminding them of God’s faithfulness on their behalf—and of the benefits of obeying the Lord.

1. When have you seen someone disobey a warning or law, resulting in negative consequences?
2. What do you think of billing someone who needs rescuing because they ignored warnings?
3. How can you remind yourself of crucial moments of God’s faithfulness in your own life?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “The Welcome Table” by Courtney Patton
• Music Video, Multicultural: “Never Lost” by Tauren Wells
• Music Video, Contemporary: “A New Anointing” by the ZOE Group
• Guzik’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 5 and Deuteronomy 10 and Deuteronomy 27
• Pulpit Commentary on Deuteronomy 5 and Deuteronomy 10 and Deuteronomy 27
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Deuteronomy 5 and Deuteronomy 10 and Deuteronomy 27

www.standardlesson.com/category/in-the-world
Copyright © 2021 by Standard Publishing, part of the David C Cook family.
All rights reserved. Each download is for the use of one church only.

Download “In the World” for November 28, 2021 here.

INCLUSION IN MAKING ANIMATED MOVIES

In a recent roundup article of the top 50 animation studios in the world, many of them were in Hollywood, as one might expect. Studios like Pixar, Disney, and DreamWorks topped the list. However, some might be surprised to learn that more than half of the studios (26 of 50) were not in the U.S. at all. Many were in Japan or Canada. Other countries active in computer animation include Germany, England, the Philippines, Iceland, India, and Turkey. Add to that the many individual animators and artists from scores of other nations who work for these top studios, and you’ll see that computer animation is now a radically international affair. These studios often have a surprising openness to international animators and artists. “You should be fine,” said one industry insider in an online forum, because “most animations studios/companies in the creative industry look mostly at portfolios.” If you’ve got the skills, studios will be interested, no matter where you’re from.

INCLUSION IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD

Our passage today shows the moment when Peter became suddenly aware that the salvation of Jesus is intended for all people in all nations. He took fellow Jewish Christians with him to the home of Cornelius the centurion, and all of them witnessed the Holy Spirit falling upon these Gentiles as He had fallen on the Jewish believers. Through the vision and this dramatic event, Peter began to understand that God offers salvation to everyone in every nation, language, and tribe.

1. What’s an animated film you have a positive opinion of?
2. How do you respond to the idea that the world has become more of a global village?
3. What do you admire about Christians who come from other countries or cultures?

Additional Resources

These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Music Video, Traditional: “Watchman”
• Music Video, Multicultural: “The Blessing” by the Asian American Christian Collective
• Music Video, Contemporary: “The Blessing” by the Asian American Christian Collective
• Guzik’s Commentary on Acts 10
• Pulpit Commentary on Acts 10
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Acts 10

www.standardlesson.com/category/in-the-world
Copyright © 2021 by Standard Publishing, part of the David C Cook family.
All rights reserved. Each download is for the use of one church only.