Bible Study: Proper 28 (A) – 2011

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Judges 4:1-7

“The Israelites again did what was evil in the sight of the Lord.”

As the people of God, Israel repeatedly turned their backs on God, who saved them and gave them the Law by which to direct their lives. And, turning their backs on Him – doing evil – always landed them in a state of oppression (i.e., laden with heavy burdens). It wasn’t until they made a return to God, through His appointed religious leaders, and submitted to judgment that the Lord vanquished them of the things which oppressed them.

• What are those things you see, which unjustly burden our society?
• In light of this passage, and in the face of those burdens you’ve listed, how do you feel we (as the people of God) have done evil in the sight of the Lord?

Psalm 123

“We have had more than enough of contempt.”

As did the psalmist, we have had too much of contempt and have every right to be fed up with it. There has been too much scorn from the rich and ridicule from the proud, both of whom scoff at our present dilemma. So, we lift our eyes to our Father in heaven, seeking the mercy that is denied us by the rich and proud.

• Do you think the frustrations of both the Tea Party and the Occupy Movement have anything to do with the scorn and derision of the rich and proud of our society?
• If so, to whom should protestors be directing their appeals?

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

“Let us not fall asleep as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.”

In times of darkness, those who lack faith, hope and love submit themselves to drunkenness – seeking to escape reality and indulge their lusts. Yet, people of faith ought endeavor to keep the faith and their hope, refusing to allow the darkness of the times to subdue them. If we are able so to do, we will be able to persevere in love for one another and the other, encouraging all that the night should pass and salvation be revealed in the Glory of His day!

• How can you be an agent of day to those surrounded by darkness?

Matthew 25:14-30

“Well done, good and trustworthy slave.”

God has entrusted each of us with various talents and His property, according to our ability, and He expects those talents to be made fruitful and multiplied. When He returns, He will demand an accounting from us, for what we’ve done with what was, and is, His. Will we be found to be good and trustworthy?

• Take time to realize and understand your talents.
• Have you multiplied them for His glory or have you simply buried them?