Lesson from Sunday January 24, 2010

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The series of passages from this last week provide a beautiful example of how God’s sovereignty and human choice work together. They are also interesting because of the way they demonstrate the incredible power of jealousy and how it motivates Joseph’s brothers to first attempt to kill him and then sell him into slavery. Not surprisingly, this act then leads down an ugly path including the desire for revenge, but then sets the stage for us to see the incredible power of forgiveness and reconciliation.

Lesson from Sunday January 17, 2010

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This week the E100 takes us squarely into the presentation of salvation history.  Though the promise of God’s saving work is found as early as Genesis 3:15, with the call of Abraham God’s unfolding plan becomes particular and specific in Abraham and his descendents.  It is instructive to notice that God’s call arises out of and in the barrenness of Abraham and Sarah:  “Now Sarai was barren, she had no children” (11:30).  Abraham is 75 years old at this point and he and Sarah have spent decades childless.  It is no wonder that Abraham struggles to trust God (Gen. 12:10-20; 20:1-18)  and Sarah laughed when told of the promise of a child/ heir (Gen. 18:12). 

As you already know, a devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck near Port au-Prince, Haiti on Tuesday affecting the nine million people who live in that country. Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere with 80% of the population living under the poverty line and 54% living on less than $1 a day.

You have likely been inundated with lots of information about how you can help, but I thought I would provide some additional information on two Christian organizations that I have had personal contact with and trust.

Covenant World Relief
http://www.covchurch.org/cwr

The “Importance of Prayer Class” starts this Sunday during Adult Discovery Hour (9 a.m.). Learn practical applications for biblically based prayer. This 10-week study is designed for beginners and warriors alike. Sessions will be facilitated by Dan Teefey and Linda Bogan with guest speakers including Conrad Wilcox, Justin, Diane Kelley and Philip Cardella.

Schedule of the leaders and topics has been added.

Adult Discovery Hour Classes
Sundays from 9:00-9:50 a.m.

Current Study:
What Is the Church and What Is It Supposed to Be Doing?

An in-depth look into two of the six affirmations of the Covenant which speak to the church. The first one examined the church as a fellowship of believers. The second is the affirmation of commitment to the whole mission of the church. December 20: The Church and the Gospel.

Two New January Studies:
1.    Diving Into “The Essential 100 Challenge”