“Keep Running the Race” (Hebrews 12:1-2)
Summary In this passage of Hebrews, we are encouraged to persevere in the Christian race by understanding the three ways in which we are called to run. Outline
“Standing Firm on Grace” (1 Peter 5:12-14)
Summary Peter’s final appeal in his letter is an encouragement to Christians on how they can stand firm under trials: Outline
“The Believer’s Confidence” (1 John 2:26-29)
Summary This passage provides three reasons we can be confident in the realities of the gospel. Outline
“Resisting the Devil” (1 Peter 5:8-11)
Summary This passage provides three assurances from God that helps us to endure suffering and to be vigilant in resisting the enemy. Outline 1. We Will Resist the Enemy (vv. 8-9) 2. We Will Be Strengthened (v. 10) 3. We Will Adore God (v. 11)
“Humble Yourself” (1 Peter 5:4-7)
Summary Peter instructs his readers to put on humility in the local church. This passage shows us three ways that humility can be promoted in the Christian life. Outline 1. Humility in the Future Reward (v. 4) 2. Humility toward Each Other (v. 5) 3. Humility Under a Caring God (vv. 6-7)
“The Portrait of Leadership” (1 Peter 5:1-3)
Summary Peter appeals to the church to consider the true picture of a Christian leader and his relationship with the church so that God’s people may align with His will. Outline
“Living Faithfully in a Deceptive World” (1 John 2:18-25)
Summary John warns the believers that the time has come in which the antichrist and many deceived and deceivers have come out. Therefore, he encouraged the believers by appealing to them to remain faithful in Christ and the truth they know. This passage provides us three reminders for remaining faithful so that we canstand firm […]
“Suffering with a Smile” (1 Peter 4:15-19)
Summary Christians can suffer joyfully for the Lord when they understand these four components to suffering given by Peter Outline 1. Suffer under the Name (vv. 15-16) 2. Suffer under Judgment (v. 17) 3. Suffer under Difficulty (v. 18) 4. Suffer under Commitment (v. 19)
“The Pillars of a Gospel-Shaped Church” (Philippians 1:1-11)
Outline 1. The Partnership of Gospel Ministry (v. 5) 2. The Poise of Gospel Ministry (v. 6) 3. The Prayer of Gospel Ministry (vv. 9-11) 4. The Posture of Gospel Ministry (v. 1)
“Checking Our Attitude” (1 Peter 4:12–14)
Summary Christians who understand these three attitudes in suffering will be able to persevere and suffer joyfully in the Lord. Outline
“How Can I Serve God?” (1 Peter 4:10-11)
Summary As Christians are called to show mutual love to one another, Peter is instructing believers about two basic methods of stewarding the grace that God has entrusted to them. Outline
“The Absurdity of Life Under the Sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:1-11)
“Living Like the End Is Near” (1 Peter 4:7-9)
Summary In the face of persecution, Peter encourages his readers to live with a present consciousness of future hope in the return of Christ. This future anticipation will impact their present living and duties in troubled times. This is how we as Christians live a godly life under the future hope of the return of […]
“Motivated by Judgment” (1 Peter 4:4-6)
Summary God’s judgment of the living and the dead motivates suffering Christians not to relapse into their old ways of living. Here are the two motivations for holiness that believers can take from God’s judgment: Outline
“Warning: This World Competes for Your Heart” (1 John 2:15-17)
Summary After reminding the believers of gospel-centered truths about their identity and position in Christ, John turns to warn them regarding the reality of the world. He provides a command to stop loving the world and we will see three reasons why this warning is essential for our walk with Christ. Outline Three Reasons Why […]
“A Willingness to Suffer” (1 Peter 2:21-25)
Summary In this passage, we learn of three reasons to accept suffering in order to avoid sinning. Outline 1. Armed with the Same Mind (v. 1) 2. Applying God’s Will (v. 2) 3. Accepting the Past as Past (v. 3)
“Assurance in Affliction” (1 Peter 3:21-22)
Summary For suffering Christians, we learn of two comforts that Christ brings to Christians in the Gospel. Outline
“Christian Confidence in Suffering” (1 Peter 3:18-20)
Summary We learn of three assertions of Gospel assurance that bring great confidence to the Christian in suffering. Outline
“Our Great God and His Great Salvation” (Isaiah 6:1-7)
Summary Outline
“Suffering for What Is Right” (1 Peter 3:16-17)
Summary Peter teaches us two practices for the Christian under unjust suffering that testify of Gospel hope to those around them. Outline
“The Right Response to Suffering” (1 Peter 3:13-15)
Summary This passage will encourage Christians to have the right response to undeserved suffering to show that they are blessed. These two descriptions of suffering give hope to Christians and show that they have nothing to fear. Outline
“Living Peacefully” (1 Peter 3:8-12)
Summary This passage of 1 Peter reveals two responses of the Christian that show how to live peacefully in a hostile world. Outline 1. Responding to Each Other (vv. 8) 2. Responding to Evil (vv. 9-12) a. The Response of Goodness (v. 9) b. The Response of Godliness (vv. 10-11) c. The Response of God […]
“Kingdom Minded” (Colossians 3:1-4)
“Kingdom Character” (Philippians 2:14-18)
Summary Today we’ll learn three expressions of kingdom character that show both our salvation and God’s work within us. Outline
“Kingdom Ambassadors” (2 Corinthians 5:20-21)
“The Unity of Kingdom People” (Ephesians 2:19-22)
“The Holy Household, Part 2” (1 Peter 3:7)
Summary After his instructions to wives, Peter instructs husbands to take up their God-given responsibilities in the home. Here are four principles that Christian husbands are to apply: Outline I. ConsiderationII. HonorIII. Prayer
“Gospel-Centered Reminders” (1 John 2:12-14)
Summary After describing several marks of a true Christian, John now turns to encourage his readers with gospel centered reminders of their identity in Christ. These reminders are designed to strengthen and assure believers in their spiritual journey. Outline Forgiveness Received (v.12, v.13c) True Knowledge Received (v.13a, v.14a) Victory Received (v.13b, v14b)
“Sure Hope in this Short Life” (Psalm 39)
Summary David writes this psalm as an acknowledgement to the struggles of the shortness of life. In this acknowledgment, we learn that the only hope for deliverance is from God. Here are three descriptions of life that lead us to hoping in God through Jesus Christ. Outline
“The Holy Household, Part 1” (1 Peter 3:1-6)
Summary After addressing the example of Christ, Peter describes the duties of the household. He specifically applies holiness in the area of wives and husbands. Here are four descriptions of the example of godliness that wives can apply to their Christian life, so that Christians can encourage godliness in their community. Outline A. The Submissive […]
“Gospel-Centered Fortune and Farewells” (1 Timothy 6:17–21)
Summary This passage provides Christians with the closing words of 1 Timothy. In the closing verses, Christians are taught that gospel-centered living informs our use of riches and spurs us to persevere in Christian ministry. Outline I. Gospel-Centered Use of Fortune (vv. 17–19) A. The Practices of the Fortunate (vv. 17–18) 1. Reject Pride 2. […]
“The Enduring Example of Easter” (1 Peter 2:21-25)
Summary Christ left an example of suffering so that believers would endure tthrough their suffering. His suffering and His work on the cross is the reason why Christians are saved and can follow Him. Here are three benefits that the cross provides to believers: Outline
“Enduring Harsh Treatment” (1 Peter 2:18-20)
Summary Peter encourages his Christian readers to submit under the harsh treatment of their earthly masters as a way of honoring God. Here are two considerations when submitting to unfair earthly masters. Outline
“What It Means to Be Free” (1 Peter 2:16-17)
Summary Peter defines for his readers what it means to live as Christians who are free under the Gospel of Christ. Here are two expressions of this freedom that Christians must display. Outline
“Where is the Love?” (1 John 2:7-11)
Summary This passage introduces believers to their responsibility to love which is the commandment from Christ that they have received from John. To encourage the believers, John points them to the practice of loving one another as a sign of genuine fellowship with God and His children. Here are two lessons on loving God’s people […]
“Should I Submit to Government?” (1 Peter 2:13-15)
Summary As Peter exhorts suffering Christians to holy living and excellent behavior in the world, he calls them to holiness in the area of government submission. Christians can learn of two righteous actions related to government that honors the Lord. Outline 1. Submit to Government for God’s Sake (vv. 13-14) a. Submit to All Government […]
“When Death Brings Freedom” (Romans 6:5-7)
Summary The Gospel bestows upon Christians three shared privileges that come from a union with Christ in His death and resurrection. Outline
“First and Last” (Matthew 20:1-16)
“How a Holy Life Changes the World” (1 Peter 2:11–12)
Summary Peter explains to his persecuted readers that personal holiness directly affects social relationships and can even influence the unbelieving to believe in Christ. Here are two questions that give Christians the motivation to abstain from sin in order to influence others and glorify God. Outline 1. How Do We Abstain from Sin? A. Abstain […]
“The Strong Servant of Christ” (2 Timothy 2:3-7)
“Being the People of God” (1 Peter 2:9-10)
Summary In contrast to unbelievers, Peter refocuses His attention to his Christians readers and gives an exhortation for them to practice holiness. Here are three reasons for us to live holy as transformed people of God. Outline
“Living in the Presence of God” (1 Timothy 6:13–16)
Summary This passage instructs Christians that perseverance in godliness is a necessity. The passage also provides the foundational truths that keep us on the path even though the world challenges our convictions and our sinful flesh may sometimes get the better of us. Outline I. The Charge: Persevere in Godliness (vv. 13a, 14a)II. The Witnesses: […]
“Christ Doesn’t Disappoint” (1 Peter 2:4-8)
Summary Peter describes the believer’s faith in Christ as the cornerstone and calls them to give spiritual sacrifices to God in holy living. Here are three responses that express their identity as a holy community. Outline 1. Accept the Precious Living Stone (v. 4) 2. Offer Acceptable Sacrifices as Living Stones (v. 5) 3. Accept […]
“Stay Hungry: How Christians Grow” (1 Peter 2:1-3)
Summary Peter gives the natural consequence of new birth which is the growth of the Christian. These three actions encourage personal growth in the life of the believer. Outline 1. Let Go of the Impediments to Growth 2. Long for the Pure Word 3. Look Back to the Kindness of God
“Born for Love, Born by the Word” (1 Peter 1:22-25)
Summary Peter’s encouragement to suffering Christians gives three implications of being born again by the Word of God. Outline
“What It Cost to Save You” (1 Peter 1:17-21)
Summary Peter explains to these suffering Christians the high cost of their salvation. This cost calls for believers to live in reverence to God through holy living and hope. Outline
“The Marks of True Knowledge of God” (1 John 2:3-6)
Summary The apostle John continues to offer pastoral guidance to believers, emphasizing that true fellowship with God is demonstrated through obedience and a life that imitates Christ. This passage provides two marks of knowing God that should yield assurance in one’s life. Outline
“Renewing Strength” (Isaiah 40:29-31)
“Hope and Holiness” (1 Peter 1:13-16)
Summary Peter gives practical instruction to suffering believers and exhorts them to appropriate a hope in the coming Lord that produces a life conformed to His holy nature. Outline
“The Marvels of Salvation” (1 Peter 1:10–12)
Summary Peter seeks to encourage suffering believers by marveling at the greatness of their salvation. Here are three salvation marvels where Christians can draw encouragement. Outline
“Using Joy to Persevere” (1 Peter 1:6–9)
Summary Peter encourages believers with two joy-filled encouragements that help sustain the Christian’s joy through life’s trials. Outline 1. The Joyful Testing of a Genuine Faith (vv. 6-7) 2. The Joyful Goal of a Loving Faith (vv. 8-9)
“The Flight and Fight of a Godly Life” (1 Timothy 6:11–12)
Summary This passage provides four instructions that keep the man of God free from the entanglements and temptations that lead to spiritual ruin. Outline I. Retreat from the Path of Destruction (v. 11a) II. Run towards the Proper Virtues (v. 11b) III. Fight the Good Fight (v. 12a) IV. Take Hold of the Faith (v. […]
“An Inheritance Reserved for You” (1 Peter 1:3-5)
Summary Peter opens his letter with praise to God for the assured hope of a future inheritance awaiting Christians. He highlights three key certainties from which this hope is drawn. Outline
“The Reasonable Response to the Gospel” (Romans 12:1-2)
“Hope During Hostility” (1 Peter 1:1–2)
Summary Peter writes to Christians facing persecution, urging them to stand firm in the grace of Jesus Christ so they may live holy lives in light of their heavenly hope. Outline 1. The Author (1:1) 2. The Recipients (1:1-2) a. Scattered Aliens (v. 1) b. Chosen People (vv. 1-2) i. The Father’s Foreknowledge ii. The […]
“Godly Contentment Makes Cents” (I Timothy 6:6–10)
Summary This passage provides Christian guidelines for gospel-driven contentment. They are given in stark contrast to the greed of false teachers (cf. verse 5), so that the believing community can pursue the This passage provides Christian guidelines for gospel-driven contentment. They are given in stark contrast to the greed of false teachers (cf. verse 5), […]
“When Valor Prevails” (1 Samuel 14:1-23)
Outline
“A Peacemaking Community” (Selected Scriptures)
Summary Since God has established peace with His people, the Bible calls Christians to be people characterized by the peace of Christ. Today, we will learn helpful principles that promote a culture of peace in the local church. Outline 1. The Definitions of Peacemaking 2. The Need for Peacemaking: Conflict Exists 3. The Pursuit of […]
“Christ’s Great Treasure” (1 Peter 2: 9-10)
“Valuing Vulnerability” (Selected Scriptures)
Summary For the Gospel revealing community, humility in discipleship brings health to the whole church. We live in unity when we humbly confess our sins and humbly open ourselves to one another as Christians in godly vulnerability. Outline
“A Gospel-Revealing Community” (Selected Scriptures)
Summary God cares about how His people relate to one another in the community of faith. So, what does a Gospel-revealing community look like in a local church? Outline
“Friendship According to Christ” (Selected Scriptures)
Summary Friendship is a significant theme found throughout Scripture. The Bible offers much insight into our relationships with others, the opportunities they provide to share the Gospel, and how we honor God through them. Outline 1. The Bible on Friendship 2. The Barriers to Friendship 3. The Building of Friendship
“Praising, Restoring, Preserving” (Psalm 138)
Summary David writes a psalm of praise to God during a time in his life where he needed strength and restoration. God emboldens him and revives his heart and promises to protect his people faithfully. Outline
“Heavenly Minded Living: What to Leave Behind” (Colossians 3:1-10)
“The False Among the Faithful” (I Timothy 6:3–5)
Summary This passage provides Christians with both the qualifications and qualities of false teachers. Paul identifies these false teachers by drawing attention to their message, mind, and madness. All Christians must be aware of these in order to protect the purity of our beliefs and promotion of our behaviors that honor God. Outline I. The […]
“You Follow Me!” (John 21:18-25)
Summary The conclusion of the book of John presents three applications that encourage belief in the message of the Gospel and following Christ in life and ministry. Outline
“Do You Walk in the Light?” (1 John 1:5-10)
Summary John continues to relay the message he heard from Christ. He starts with the most important aspect of God’s nature to emphasize how believers in fellowship with Him must live. This passage provides believers three conditions of having true fellowship with God to encourage so that we may know we are in the Light. […]
“Do You Love Me?” (John 21:15-17)
Summary Jesus in His restoration of Peter calls him to reaffirm his love for Christ. This love for Christ necessitates a tender care toward God’s people in which all Christians must participate. Outline
“Faith Strengthened at Breakfast” (John 21:1–14)
Summary The beginning of the epilogue shows Jesus miraculously ministering His disciples. He does this to remind them that He is with them as the Resurrected Lord and removes their doubt as they continue in their mission bringing the Gospel to the world. Outline 1. Lessons While Fishing (vv. 1-6) 2. Lessons From a Miracle […]
“Faith that (Literally) Works” (1 Timothy 6:1–2)
Summary In this passage, Paul provides Christians with a biblicalapproach towards authority that is both non-Christian and Christian.God is concerned about our attitude towards authority, specificallywith regard to our labor, so that the reputation of Christian doctrineand the name of God are not misrepresented to the world. Outline I. The Approach to Unbelieving Authority (v. […]
“The Purpose of Faith” (John 20:30–31)
Summary John states the purpose of writing this Gospel account. He desires his readers to hear of the signs of Jesus and respond in belief that He is the Messiah and God Himself. This faith leads to abundant life for the believer that can only come from Christ. Outline I. The Signs of the Gospel […]
“When Peace Appears” (John 20:19-29)
Summary The appearance of Christ to the disciples is intended to dispel fearand doubt in the hearts of the disciples reminding them of theirmission and what His sacrificial death and resurrection hasaccomplished. Outline
“The King and the Empty Tomb” (John 20:1-18)
Summary John gives the account of Jesus’ first post resurrection appearance.He does this to prove the validity of the resurrection, to inform hisreaders of its saving power, and to encourage the proclamation ofthe resurrection to the world. Outline
“Our Proclamation: Christ and Fellowship through Him” (1 John 1:1-4)
Summary This passage teaches us two transforming truths about our proclamation. These truths should strengthen and bring joy to the believer’s faith as we dwell on the gracious gifts we received from the Word of Life. Outline 1. The Incarnation of Christ is the Essence of Our Proclamation (vv. 1-2) 2. The Fellowship through Christ […]
The King Buried in a Tomb (John 19:31-42)
Summary John recounts the death of Christ and His burial. We learn of God’s plan for salvation, Scripture’s fulfillment, and even disciples who committed themselves to Christ even in the most difficult of times. Outline 1. The Piercing of the Savior (vv. 31-37) 2. The Disciples of the Savior (vv. 38-39) 3. The Burial of […]
“The King on the Cross” (John 19:17-30)
Summary John describes the crucifixion of King Jesus and His completedwork for believers. Outline
“The King Rejected” (John 19:1-15)
Summary This passage describes the final portions of Jesus’ trial before Pilate and His rejection by His people leading to His crucifixion. Readers can learn of King Jesus who was rejected as a sacrifice for those who accept Him as King. Outline
“The King of Truth” (John 18:28-40)
Summary This passage covers Jesus’ unjust trial before Pilate and rejection from His people. Though innocent, Christ is treated as guilty, but His condemnation is under the sovereign plan of God to pay for the sins of His people. Outline 1. What Is the Accusation? (28-32) 2. Who Is this King? (29-36) 3. What Is […]
“The Pathway to Godliness” (Colossians 3:1–4)
Summary Summary: This passage provides four essentials about the pathway to godliness. Believers must commit themselves to these essentials so that they do not deviate from the path and to ensure they journey faithfully through life towards our heavenly home. Outline I. Essential #1: Pursue the Right Object (v. 1) II. Essential #2: Possess the […]
“Trial and Denial” (John 18:12-27)
Summary This passage covers Jesus’ arrest, initial questioning, and Peter’s denial. Here are four scenes from this account that teach us more about God’s sovereign control and Jesus’ sacrifice for salvation. Outline
“When Christ Drinks a Cup for Us” (John 18:1-11)
Summary The betrayal of Jesus sets in motion a series of events that would eventually lead Him to the crucifixion. His submission to the Father and sovereign control are in full display. This account teaches Christians four truths about Christ that would lead to the cross and the glory of salvation for His people. Outline
“The Call to Forgive, Part 2” (Philemon 17-25)
Summary As Paul ends his letter, he continues to appeal to Philemon with specific requests to forgive his slave, illustrating the gospel and its implications. This passage teaches us three purposes for practicing forgiveness. Outline I. To Demonstrate the Gospel (vv. 17-19) II. To Become a Blessing (vv. 20-21) III. To Experience True Fellowship (vv. […]
“When Jesus Prays for You, Part 3” (John 17:20-26)
Summary In this final portion of the prayer, Jesus prays for all future disciples to be united under the name of God for the purpose of mission and love. Here are three aspects of prayer that He prays for: Outline I. Uniting with All for the Mission (vv. 20-23) II. Reaching Our Destined Glory (v. […]
“When Jesus Prays for You, Part 2” (John 17:9-19)
Summary: This passage shows three securities that come from the prayers of Jesus for His disciples that we as Christians can find comfort in today. Outline: I. Kept by the Father (17:9-12)II. Kept from the Enemy (17:13-16)III. Kept by the Truth (17:17-19)
“Recognizing His Name” (Philippians 2:9-11)
Summary: Christ’s humble sacrifice lead to His exaltation by God and Hisname will be recognized by all of creation. Here are two truthsabout the name of our resurrected Lord. Outline: I. The Name Above All Names (v. 9) II. The Name Recognized by All (vv. 10-11)
“The Call to Forgive, Part 1” (Philemon 8-16)
Summary Paul’s point in writing to Philemon is to appeal to him to forgive Onesimus. He reminded Philemon of his love for Christ and how he refreshed the saints, and now Paul urges him to forgive his slave on the basis of love, his union and new character in Christ, and God’s providential plan over […]
“When Jesus Prays for You, Part 1” (John 17:1-8)
Summary This passage shows Jesus praying for His glory and for His disciples so that His people would remain steadfast in the work of the Gospel for the glory of God. Outline I. The Son Prays for His Glory (1-5) 1. His Supreme Authority (1-2) 2. His Work for Eternal Life (3-4) 3. His Special […]
“When Grief Turns to Joy” (John 16:12-15)
Summary: As Jesus continues to invest in His disciples, He speaks about thecoming of the Holy Spirit and about the comfort that will come tothem after their grief. Outline:
“How to Pray for God’s People” (Philemon 4-7)
Paul shared his prayer of thanksgiving to God for Philemon’s loveand faith. And before appealing to Philemon to do what is difficult,the apostle Paul prayed for him to encourage him to continue togrow in his love, faith, knowledge of Christ, and in serving thebrethren.Four examples of how to pray for God’s peoplea. Give thanks for […]
“A Wake-Up Call for God’s People” (Haggai 1:1-15)
“The Spirit’s Help in Prayer” (Romans 8:26-27)
“Kingdom Attitudes” (Matthew 5:1-7)
A Letter to a Friend on Forgiveness (Philemon 1:1-3)
Summary The apostle Paul writes a letter to his friend Philemon in the most loving way to ask him to forgive and restore his slave, Onesimus, who is now his brother through the gospel of Jesus Christ.A Letter to a friend on forgiveness Outline 1.The Sender (v.1)2.The Recipients (v.2)3.The Greetings (v.3)
“Blessed Mercy” (Matthew 5:1-7)
“The Showing of the Spirit” (John 16:1-11)
Summary As Jesus continues to invest in His disciples, He speaks about the coming persecution and the coming of the Holy Spirit. Disciples of Christ are able to learn about power of the Spirit and the conviction He can bring to the hearts of man. Outline I. The Warning (vv. 1-4)A. A Warning about Stumbling […]
“Redeeming a Painful Past in a New Year” (Selected Scriptures)
Summary: We will be studying how the Gospel can help address our painful past so that we can respond with a heart filled with peace and joy in Christ for the future. I. Defining the Painful PastA. What is a Painful Past?B. How Does Scripture Address a Painful Past?C. How Do I Organize the Painful […]
“Commissioned Rejects” (Mark 6:1–13)
“Christmas Praise and Prophecy, Part 2” (Luke 1: 67-80)
Summary: Zacharias’ prophecy teaches us many truths about God, His salvation, and the Messiah that He sent in order to deliver His people. Outline:
“Christmas Praise and Prophecy, Part 1” (Luke 1:67–80)
Summary Zecharias’ prophecy teaches us many truths about God, His salvation, and the Messiah that He sent in order to deliver His people. Outline 1. Praising God for His Salvation (67-75) a. His Praise Deserved (67-69) b. His Prophesied Deliverance (70-71) c. His Promise Distributed (72-73) d. His People’s Duty (74-75) 2. Preparing for God […]