Wednesday, April 24, 2013

HOPE COMES FROM GOD'S GRACE

BY THE END OF THE LESSON, WE WILL:

EXPLORE the purpose for which God has called us; TRUST that God has a significant plan for our lives; and PRAY for a clear understanding of God's assignment. 

FOCAL VERSES: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 & 9-17


KEEP IN MIND: "Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work." (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)


AT-A-GLANCE

1. Those Not Left Behind (2 Thessalonians 2:13)
2. Those Fooled by the Man of Sin (vv.9-12)
3. Loved, Chosen, and Called (vv. 13-14)
4. Standing Firm in the Faith (vv. 15-17)


IN FOCUS:

John and Mary saw there was a lot to be done in their church, which was located in the heart of an inner-city neighborhood. In 25 years, they saw several pastors come and go and had witnessed firsthand the financial personal, and spiritual struggles of the church. It was tempting for them to retreat to the beautiful suburban church closer to their home. 
However, one day as John studied the Scriptures, he ran across a passage in Luke's Gospel: "But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance" (Luke 5:30-32).
John felt convicted. He knew the Lord had him and Mary in their current church because there were may who were spiritually sick who could benefit from their biblical wisdom and needed to be taught God's Word. John and Mary learned that God had called them to make a needed and lasting difference in a lost and dying world-in an inner-city venue. 
In today's lesson, God is calling for commitment to His agenda: saving lost souls and helping to build His kingdom. 


SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES:

1. What two things will happen before the day of the Lord (2 Thessalonians 2:3)?
2. Who is the power behind the man of sin (v.9)?


DISCUSS THE MEANING: 

1. Why did Paul tell the Thessalonians that first a falling away and then a man of sin would be revealed before the Day of the Lord (2 Thessalonians 2:1-3)?
2. Why would people believe a delusion (vv. 9-12)?
3. Using today's Scriptures, what could you say to John and Mary (In Focus) to encourage them to be faithful in the word of the Lord?

LESSON IN OUR SOCIETY:

Not to long ago, a rich Christian man announced via radio, billboards, etc., that the rapture was going to happen, and he gave a date for it. Many of the unsaved made fun of him, especially as the date passed and nothing happened. How could a careful reading of today's Scripture passage help us avoid deception by such messages? Do you know other Scriptures that would also show that this prophecy was wrong?


MAKE IT HAPPEN:

Paul was writing to console the Thessalonians, and his words are God's words for us today. Look again at the key verses to focus on how God gives us hope through His grace. What should be the result of His comfort? Are good words and good works flowing from God's grace in our lives?

(Except from the Apostolic Light)

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From Acorns to Oak Trees: Something for the Youth!!!

PARIS STANDS FIRM

It was a hot summer afternoon, and it seemed as if the entire city was on Blair Boulevard. You could hear the sound of Mr. Easter's lawnmower. You could hear the neighborhood children yelling and laughing while riding their bikes, playing with water balloons, or playing basketball. You could hear the loud music coming from TaRon's new car (a graduation present from his parents). With all that going on, Paris was still bored stiff. She thought this might be the best day to introduce herself to her new neighbor's daughter.
"Hi, my name is Paris. Do you want to go to the store with me for ice cream? It is to hot today,"she said. "Sure! That would be nice. Let me tell my mom where I'm going. By the way, my name is Autumn," she said with a pleasant grin.
It wasn't long before Paris and Autumn became good friends. They liked the same music, the same TV programs, and the same foods. There was something that bothered Paris, though: Autumn didn't believe in God. She found this out when she asked Autumn to attend a youth concert at her church.
Autumn's response shocked Paris. "Don't you know that God does not exist?" Autumn said. "He's just a fairy tale; church is a waste of time."
After that day, things were not the same between them. Autumn was constantly challenging Paris's beliefs. She called Paris and her family fools and weird. One day, Paris decided it was best not to be Autumn's friend anymore.
"Autumn, I think it's best we not be close friends," Paris said. "I strongly believe God and His Son, Jesus. I need friends who believe with me."
Even though Paris had her bored days on Blair Boulevard, she preferred boredom over having a friend who would lead her in the wrong direction.



FINDING THE WORD: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, & 9-17


IN MY HEART:

"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth" (2 Thessalonians 2:13 KJV)


SIDEBAR


HOPE COMES FROM GOD'S GRACE

Before Jesus returns to earth, many things will occur. This is why God's children must be strong and confident in their beliefs. There will be active wars and rumors of wars. Unity among the nations will be almost unheard of. There will be many nonbelievers. People will love themselves and things more than God. False prophets will perform seemingly great and wonderful things, but it's all deception. Parents will teach their children to be unbelievers, and leaders will teach their nations not to believe. Through it all, there is hope for God's children.




HOW TO REMAIN HOPEFUL

S tudy the promise of God you were taught by your leaders and read in the Word. 
T rust that whatever God says is true and trustworthy.
A sk questions if you need answers. Don't be confused about spiritual matters. 
Y ou are God's most important creation. He has a plan for your life. 





GOT IT!

A.)  PAUL LONGS TO SEE THE THESSALONIANS

Use Word! to help you get the best answer to make the sentence true. 

1. Satan (paved / blocked) Paul's way to see his brothers and sisters in Thessalonica. 
2. Paul sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage their (faith / families)
3. Brothers and sisters were asked to stand firm and hold (fast / slow) to the teachings passed on to them. 


B.)  STAND FIRM 

1. Get a partner.
2. Discuss at least three ways you should respond when confronted with non-Christian's challenging questions. 
3. Share your answers with the your class. 


JAM SESSION

SURE SOURCE OF HOPE

Information about the future come to us from a variety of sources. How can we know which source to trust? Paul warns us against the deception that can come from satanic sources. In the story of Paris Stands Firm, Paris's new neighbor, Autumn, does not believe in God! They have many things in common, but a relationship with Jesus Christ is not one of them. They became friends but later had to end their connection because Autumn's constant agitation and taunting. Paris stands firm in her hope despite it all. She understands that to grow in her faith and remain strong to what God has called her to, she needed to distance herself from Autumn. 
If you were in a similar situation, what would you do?


JAM ON IT!

THE ASSIGNMENT

Call this week "a week of prayer." God has given you an assignment concerning your life and purpose!
This week, specifically pray to God concerning your assignment. You were created for a purpose and a reason. God has clear plans for your life. Pray to Him about His plans!


LAST JAM

GOD HAS A SIGNIFICANT PLAN FOR MY LIFE!


(Except from the Apostolic Light)






Wednesday, April 17, 2013

LIVING WITH HOPE

BY THE END OF THE LESSON, WE WILL:


UNDERSTAND the significance of the second coming of Jesus Christ; REJOICE in our salvation; and DETERMINE to be prepared for the return of our Lord.


FOCAL VERSES: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 & 5:1-11


KEEP IN MIND: "For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 5:9)


AT-A-GLANCE

1. Those Who Have Fallen Asleep. ( 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
2. The Day of the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 5:1-3)
3. Children of Darkness vs. Children of Light (vv. 4-6)
4. Walking in Readiness (vv. 7-11)

IN FOCUS:

Mr. and Mrs. Johnson always insisted that the house's alarm system be turned on each night when the family went to bed. But one night, Brandon and Bree decided to stay up to watch a little TV after their parents had gone to bed, and Brandon forgot to turn on the alarm.
Later that night, Brandon was awakened by what he thought was a sound in the house. He climbed out of bed, tiptoed into his parents' room, woke his dad and whispered, "Dad, someone is in the house!"
Mr. Johnson pushed a near by panic button wired to the alarm system. A blaring alarm sounded throughout the house. The intruder ran out the back door and a car was heard screeching away. The policeman told Mr. Johnson that in his experience, thieves never showed up when people were looking for them; they always came when they were least expected.
In today's lesson, Paul explained to the Thessalonians Christians that because the Day of the Lord would come as a thief in the night, they were to live as though they expected Jesus to return at any moment.

BACKGROUND:

Paul rejoiced with great joy that the Thessalonians had received the Gospel as the truth of God through the power of the Holy Ghost (1 Thessalonians 1:5). He then showed how deeply the Gospel's power is tied to those who proclaim and receive it, exclaiming, "So being affectionately desirous of you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls" (2:8). With this unbreakable Gospel-bond in mind, Paul spoke at length in chapter 3 about his longing to be reunited with the Thessalonian Christians. Since such a reunion had proven impossible, Paul reminded his hearers, "We sent Timothy, who is our brother and co-worker in God's service in spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ, to strengthen you and encourage you in your faith" (3:2, NIV).


SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES:

1. What is the term Paul used to describe the period culminating in the return of Jesus to rule and reign on the earth (1 Thessalonians 5:2)?
2. When this terrible period came upon them, what would people be expecting for the world (v.2)?


DISCUSS THE MEANING:

1. Explain the difference between those who are asleep in 1 Thessalonians 5:4 and verse 11.
2. In the Focus story, the Johnson's put stock in their alarm. Given that the Day of the Lord will come as a thief, how do saints prepare for the Lord's return?

LESSON IN OUR SOCIETY:

People are worried about the economy, wars, terrorism, and the general state of the world. How would you comfort someone stressed over these issues? What Scriptures help?

MAKE IT HAPPEN:

This week, ask one or more unsaved people what they consider to be the biggest worries of the country. Then ask them how these issues affect them and their future. Use the response as a means of offering them the assurance of salvation.
(Excerpt from The Apostolic Light)

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From Acorns to Oak Trees: something for the youth!


David's Hope
David remembered Grand Ma'Dear's last words to him. "You keep playing the keyboard for God," she said, while tightly squeezing his hand as she lay in her hospital bed. "I won't be here much longer. Grand Ma'Dear is going home."
Tears began to well in David's eyes because he knew his grandmother wasn't talking about her big home on Evanston Avenue. In that home, he played video games with his cousins on holidays. In that home, he opened Christmas and birthday presents. In that home, he watched football and basketball games with his granddad. He had tons of memories in that home, but his fondest memory was getting his first keyboard on his seventh birthday. His grandparents were so happy to get David the keyboard. They also paid for his first piano lessons. Yes, David knew Grand Ma'Dear wasn't talking about that home; she was talking about her heavenly home.
"I love to hear her joyful sounds of God on that keyboard, "she said with a grin on her face. "You keep making God happy, and I will see you in heaven on day."
"Grand Ma'Dear, I love you so much," David said while wiping tears from his eyes. "I don't want to leave, but I know I will see you again."
That cool spring night, Grand Ma'Dear died with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren close by her side. Grand Ma'Dear oldest son, David's father, said to the family: "We all want to live for God so we can all see Ma'Dear again."


FINDING THE WORD: (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 & 5:1-11)

In My Heart: 
"For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 5:9)

SIDEBAR

Living with Hope:

The day of the Lord is described as the day when Christ returns to the earth to redeem His hopeful believers. Believers who have died in the Lord will meet Him in the air first. Next, believers who are alive will be caught up in the air. This gathering will be the start of being with the Lord forever. If you are not prepared for this day (nonbelievers), it will be a day of judgment, destruction, and terror. This day will come as a surprise to nonbelievers. Jesus is described as returning to earth "like a thief in the night," but for believers, it will not come as a surprise because believers will be prepared for this great day.

How to Rejoice Every Day:

R- ember you are safe in Christ at all times.
E- ternal life is your reward. 
J- oy and peace are your gifts.
O- bey the commands of the Lord. 
I- n Christ there is hope
C- hrist reigns over all.
E- ncourage one another with God's hope.


JAM SESSION

Great Expectations: 

People find themselves in situations that can be destabilizing, disheartening, and despairing. How do we find stability, courage, and hope? Paul assures us that promise of Christ's return provides us with comfort and hope. David experiences a destabilizing, disheartening, and despairing circumstance when his grandmother dies. David loves his Grand Ma'Dear and is sad to see her die. He can't imagine life without her, but he knows what the Word of God promises. He knows he will see her again on the Day of the Lord. He has hope! This hope comforts his grieving heart. 


JAM ON IT!

Get Ready:
David's father explained to his family that if they wanted to see Grand Ma'Dear again, they must continue to live for God. This week, meditate and write down things you are doing or need to do to prepare for Christ's return. Are you prepared? If not, will you be? What makes your preparation certain?

LAST JAM

Have Hope In God's Promises!

(Excerpt from The Apostolic Light)


Wednesday, April 10, 2013

THE HOLY GHOST COMES


BY THE END OF THE LESSON, WE WILL:

UNDERSTAND that the power of the Holy Ghost came as promised; APPRECIATE the value of living by faith; and COMMIT to a closer walk with God.

Focal Verses: Acts 2:1-36

Keep in Mind:

"And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:4)


AT-A-GLANCE

1.) Manifestation of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:1-3)
2.) Filled with the Holy Ghost (vv. 4-5)
3.) Empowered by the Holy Ghost (vv. 6-12)
4.) Doubting the Holy Ghost (v. 13)

In Focus:

Today's lesson illustrates how the empowerment of Holy Ghost, at work in one faithful heart, can reach out to lost, hurting souls and unite a community.

Background: 

The celebration of Pentecost, as depicted in the New Testament (Acts 2:1-21), was prophesied in the Old Testament in Joel 2:28-32. The Day of Pentecost marked the beginning of the Christian church. The celebration united Jews from many nations; 16 are mentioned. Empowered by the Holy Ghost, the apostles, who were Galileans, preached the Gospel to the Jewish nations in their native languages. 

Search the Scriptures:

1. What were the miraculous signs that indicated the presence of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:2-4)?
2. When they heard the apostles speaking in different languages, what were the reactions of the Jewish people (vv.6-7)
3. In attempt to explain away the miracle, what did the mockers in the crowds say about the apostles (v.13)?

Discuss the Meaning:

1.) Why do you think the Holy Ghost made such a grand entrance (Acts 2:2-3)?
2.) Do you think the miracle of tongues, on the Day of Pentecost, was in the apostles speaking in different languages or the Jews hearing the Gospel in their own languages (vv. 4-6)
3.) In what ways does the collaborative action under the anointing of the Holy Ghost fulfill the mission of the church? What Scriptures support your answer? Which way would you have done it and why?

Lesson in Our Society:

There are so many hurting people in today's world. Even saints of God can be overwhelmed when we see all the suffering. It would be easier to stick our heads in the sand and let someone else deal with it, and many people do just that. 
One news story reported that a man was beaten by a group of young people after he'd witnessed them committing a crime. The man pulled in to a convenience store across the street. The group of kids, likely fearful that he was going to call the police, beat him, causing serious injury. There were witnesses to this violent attack, but no one did any thing. No one intervened. No one even called the police. The man crawled into his car and drove home and was later admitted to the hospital. No arrest were made.

How does the Holy Ghost empower us to come out of our comfort zones, and to reach out and help others? Does The Lord expect us to reach out? If you had witnessed the above crime what would you have done? Why?

Make it Happen:

When you look around our community, what do you see? Who is hurting, who needs help, and who needs to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Are you going to answer the Holy Ghost's call to action, or are you going to leave the burden for someone else?
(Excerpt from The Apostolic Light)

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FROM ACORNS TO OAK TREES:

SOMETHING FOR THE YOUTH 

Be Still

"Cut, cut, cut, cut, cut!" Pastor Milton yelled as he dramatically waved his hands and shook his head with disappointment. The rehearsal seemed to go on forever. Nobody was getting his or her part right. All the players were frustrated with their delivery. "Let's come together. This is a mess," Pastor Milton said, cutting off the rehearsal. "We need to pray before we go further." All the kids circled him as they continued to chatter. "Be still as we come into the presence..." Pastor Milton started. Everyone became quiet and respectfully bowed their heads. He asked the Lord to bless the work they were trying to present so would glorify God, and he told the actors to begin again. There was a distinct energy in the room at that point. The lead players suddenly became more serious in their tone and delivery. The other players picked up the same spirit and delivered their lines seamlessly. When the part came where the people were touched by the Holy Spirit, the cast was visibly touched, and claim came over all they were doing. 
At the end of rehearsal, Pastor Milton commended everyone on a great job. He knew tonight's presentation would be one that would touch the hearts of everyone in the audience. "Thank you, Holy Spirit," Pastor Milton's opening words as he prepared to speak to the cast after rehearsal. "I am so moved you opened your hearts to what the Lord wants to deliver through our presentation. You let the Holy Spirit guide your words and actions. Now, let's get our costumes on and go out and give the neighborhood the message God wants delivered through us." 
As each cast member went forth, it was clear that what was once a big mess now something that glorified God. God was both present and pleased. 

FIND THE WORD! Acts 2:1-13


In My Heart

"And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance" (Acts 2:4)


SIDEBAR 

The term Pentecost is the Hellenistic name for the Hebrew Feast of Weeks and is described in Leviticus 23:15-21; it was instituted to show joy and thankfulness for God's blessing of the harvest. Our passage deals with the blessing of the coming of the Holy Spirit (mentioned in Acts 1:8) and the wonders of God and the Holy Spirit proclaimed in understandable language. The apostles were enabled to praise God in languages understood by the multilingual throngs. Breath, or wind, is a symbol of the Spirit of God (Ezekiel 37:9, 14; John 3:8). Humans tend to explain away biblical acts of God as natural phenomena. 


HOW TO LIVE THANKFUL LIVES 
Youth will realize that how they live their lives becomes a thank you to God.
1. Realize that God is already active and working in your life. 
2. Pray and keep the faith. Prayer and faith can keep you steady. 
3. Spread God's love to all people to build a strong walk with Christ. 

JAM SESSION

Power to Change
We often face experiences that produce dramatic changes in our lives. How can positive, lasting change be initiated? The Holy Spirit provides life-transforming power. The cast members were preparing a presentation, but they were not ready to present. The pastor prayed and called on the Holy Spirit, which allowed God's power to doe miraculous and life-changing things through the cast. It took them by surprise, and they realized it was not because of their own efforts. Being encouraged in knowing that the revelation of the Holy Spirit is God's act and not the result of human effort expresses willingness to live by faith and to have a closer walk with God.

JAM ON IT!

Holy Spirit in Your Life
Have your been filled with the Holy Ghost? If not, what do you know about the Spirit? Share specific was they Holy Spirit works in our lives. Share your thoughts with the class next week. 

Keep on believing! Change happens. 

(Excerpt from The Apostolic Light)


Tuesday, April 2, 2013

THE LORD APPEARS


By the end of the lesson, we will:

DESCRIBE the events of the Resurrection in this passage; REFLECT on the power displayed in Scripture; and DECIDE to seek the fulfillment of all that Jesus has promised us. 

Focal Verses: Luke 24:36-53

Keep in Mind: 

"And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me." (Luke 24:44)

At-A-Glance

1.) Jesus' Appearance to His Disciples Behind Closed Doors (Luke 24:36-43)
2.) Jesus' Appearance to His Disciples in Jerusalem (vv. 44-49)
3.) Jesus' Ascension (vv. 50-53)

In Focus: Promises made are often hard to keep. In today's lesson, we will see how Jesus kept His promises and fulfilled all Old Testament prophecies. 


Background: On the third day after the death of Jesus, two disciples encountered the resurrected Jesus on their way to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-21, 28-35). Because they were so grief stricken, they were unaware it was Jesus. He opened the Scriptures to them and revealed the Old Testament prophecies that spoke of the Messiah. After such sadness and despondency over the death of their leader, His words restored their hope. They invited Him to stay with them since it was so late when they arrived in Emmaus. They shared the Lord's Supper. Once they recognized Jesus, He disappeared. They then returned to Jerusalem to witness to the other disciples about their encounter with the resurrected Savior. Today's text tells of Jesus' appearance to the disciples and His ascension. 


Search the Scriptures: 

1. What evidence did Jesus offer to the disciples to prove who He really was (Luke 24:39-40, 42-43)?
2. Why did Jesus tell the disciples to remain in the city (v.49)?

Discuss the Meaning:

1.) People make promises that they do not keep. This can cause us to doubt others. What qualities make a person trustworthy?
2.) Some people say that regardless of others lack of dependability, we would have to trust Jesus before we could learn to trust others. Is this advice true? How difficult is it to apply this to our lives?


Lesson in Our Society:

We learn to trust people based on their word. Jesus proved He is trustworthy because He has fulfilled every promise made. He wants us to trust Him unconditionally and seek to live out His promises. In today's society, it can be difficult living out the promises of God. What hindrances do you face in seeking to fulfill God's promises? How can you overcome the stumbling blocks? 


Make it Happen:


Jesus appeared to the disciples to prove He had been resurrected and to give reassurance to them. Sometimes we need evidence before we believe promises made by others. Jesus' life, death, and resurrection fulfilled all the prophecies of the Old Testament about the Messiah. He is trustworthy. What promises has God made to you through His Word? There is no need to delay in seeking the fulfillment of God's promises for your life. This week, write down the promises and corresponding Scriptures. Pray and ask God for guidance in the steps to take. Step out by faith and take action. Every word God proves true. 
(Excerpt from The Apostolic Light)




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From Acorns to Oak Trees: Something for the youth!






From The Junior High Magazine:
 





COMFORTING SPIRT

LESSON AIM: 

KNOW: Realize the power of the Holy Spirit. 
FEEL: Reflect on the power of God displayed in Scripture. 
DO: Experience the fulfillment of all that Jesus has promised us. 

Reality Check 
Jason and Bell looked through the photo album as if it was their very first time seeing the pictures. Uncle Saul's funeral had been just three hours earlier. Everyone was sitting around reminiscing about times spent with their uncle, He was still their favorite uncle and would probably continue to be. Bell's eyes glazed with tears that wouldn't fall. Jason knew she wanted to cry, but she was holding back her tears.
"We all miss him," Jason said. He gave Bell a hug, and they turned the next page. Big Mike came to the door and told them to come down to eat. Bell closed the book, and all three followed the smell of food. 
They walked into a feast. Most of the dishes were ones Uncle Saul had enjoyed. Pastor Stokes blessed the food and invited everyone to dig in. As family and friends passed plates and bowls around, stories about Uncle Saul continued. Family members took turns cheerfully recounting funny memories and recalling memorable gestures Uncle Saul had done in his unique way.
Toward the end of the meal, Pastor Stokes got everyone's attention and said, "Uncle Saul was a great man of God. Follow his model. He was an example to all his family of what it meant to follow God. He  helped much and complained little. Don't ever forget that. Indeed, God truly blessed us all with Uncle Saul."
After everyone said their goodbyes to the pastor, Jason reflected on His Bible study lesson how Jesus rose and came to see the disciples. That had to bring them a lot of joy. He thought about Uncle Saul up in heaven and that he would not come back. Jason realized he would see his uncle again someday in heaven. Jason just smiled. 

1.) What kind of person do you think Uncle Saul was?
2.) How did the family deal with the loss of their beloved uncle?
3.) Compare how the family dealt with Uncle Saul's death and how the disciples dealt with the death of Jesus. How were the two experience different?


PRESENT THE SCRIPTURES:


In My Heart
Recite this verse: "And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me" (Luke 24:44)

The Lord Appears
Junior should reflect on the power of God displayed in the Scriptures and how the disciples were changed from hiding men to bold men proclaiming God's message. 


EXPLORE THE MEANING
How to Experience the Promise
Juniors will experience the fulfillment of all that Jesus promised us as they meet with other believers and worship Him. 
1. Meet with fellow believers regularly in church of Bible study.
2. Read and discuss the promises of God found in the Scriptures. 
3. Worship together, proclaiming the risen Christ. 
4. Pray and ask that the Holy Spirit be with you to guide you. 

Promises Kept

While the disciples were hiding in disbelief of what the Scriptures foretold, Jesus appeared among them and proved the Scriptures to be true. He proved that He was alive and ate with them. Juniors will see that once the disciples believed, He blessed them and ascended into heaven, leaving them on earth to worship and praise His name. Juniors will see that all the promises of Jesus are reliable. 

QUESTION FOR JESUS
Juniors should take some time to reflect on what questions or comments they would make to Jesus if He appeared to them today. 
(Excerpt from The Apostolic Light)

Please share your thoughts in the comment box.