• The Explore the Bible lesson for Jan. 28 focuses on Acts 18:24-28; 19:1-7.

By the time we reach the events described in Acts 18 and 19, the Apostle Paul has traveled many a mile on his tiring-but-impacting journey that began in Acts 16. After an extended stay in Corinth (which we can see was a significant group of people to Paul, based on his letters to the Corinthians), Luke tells us about another missionary whose journey nearly intersected with Paul’s.

Paul was leaving Ephesus and his friends, Priscilla and Aquila. At that point, another evangelist named Apollos came into Ephesus with boldness similar to Paul’s. He also had some “room to grow” in his depth of understanding.

Before delving into the text, ask your group: If you were just impacted by an amazing person like Paul, how would you respond to another person coming to town after him? Let’s be ready to learn from this unique example.

A Partial Witness (Acts 18:24-26)

Apollos was a native of Alexandria, and that tells us a lot about him. Alexandria was the home of a “great library and museum, which made the city known as a great center of learning,” with thinkers such as Philo being a product also of its learning (J. Bradley Chance, Acts, 333-34).

When Apollos spoke, we are told that he was clearly accurate, communicating with a “fervor” that helped him to stand out against those who hindered The Way. Perhaps this is what caught the attention of Priscilla and Aquila. Rather than seeing Apollos as competition to Paul, they turned to teaching Apollos.

Imagine the humility it took for these three! Apollos evidently accepted the teaching, acknowledging his understanding was incomplete, while Priscilla and Aquila had to accept that their voice was not the only voice. What might this teach us today?

Humility seems to be the gateway to being whole in our understanding. Acting like a “know-it-all” leaves us incomplete, while being open to learning moves us toward fullness. Ask your group: How will my life change if I always am open to learning?

A Complete Witness (Acts 18:27-28)

The end result of their mutual humility led to a greater possibility: Apollos was empowered and began to speak with even more boldness. This was a win-win. There were no sides to choose here, because they all were evangelists of Jesus.

Be sure to read 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 in light of this mutual work of Apollos and Paul. (I cannot stress the significance of this passage enough). Greater things happen when God’s many messengers are about the work of God rather than the reputation of men.

In light of this, when Apollos desired to move on in his journey, he was fully affirmed by the disciples of Ephesus and went on to greatly help those in Achaia. His boldness went into overdrive as he debated the anti-Way Jews, and this was because of his initial humility.

We are complete witnesses when we all are on the side of our Lord. What do we need to do to guard ourselves from being divided? How must churches of varying affiliations come together to prove this complete witness to our community?

An Incomplete Faith (Acts 19:1-7)

This story comes full circle as Paul arrives in Ephesus and encounters those who were as unaware as Apollos initially: They only knew of John’s repentance baptism, not the baptism of Jesus that brought the Holy Spirit. It is interesting how these disciples are a continuation of the work and teaching done for Apollos in his former ignorance.

Lack of understanding and shallow faith happens to both the educated and non-educated. This is because knowing Jesus through faith and living in the Spirit is not something you learn in a classroom; it must be believed and experienced.

Notice Paul did not look down on these people. Rather, he acted as the teacher by taking the opportunity to disciple 12 men. We should never view those who are ignorant of understanding with discouragement. As Paul would say, “May it never be!”

The result was these “incomplete” became “complete” by receiving the Spirit. Just imagine how they must have went on to be faithful followers and messengers of the Good News. Leading others to a whole faith will only result in more messengers serving the same Lord and working on the same team.

Conclusion

Confucius once said, “Real knowledge is to know the extent of one’s ignorance.” Similarly, Benjamin Franklin added, “The doorstep to the temple of wisdom is a knowledge of our own ignorance.” These two thinkers, separated by centuries, point to the reality that we are incomplete when we don’t recognize we are incomplete.

Apollos and these 12 disciples in our story possessed knowledge and faith, but they were lacking. Priscilla, Aquila and Paul had depth of faith and discipleship, and they took the time to teach those who were incomplete. There is no more beautiful picture of discipleship than this story. How does this encourage us forward?

We all must be aware that we are not the storehouse of wisdom and understanding. Each has something to learn. We should be aware of our incompleteness and be a part of leading others from being incomplete to whole. This will only strengthen people, build faith and create disciples who will create disciples.

Heath A. Kirkwood is lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Lorena.

• The Explore the Bible lesson for Jan. 21 focuses on Acts 16:16-19; Psalm 139:13-16.

In an earlier lesson, we discussed the jailing of Paul and Silas and how their prison stay resulted in a changed family. This week’s text was mentioned briefly in that session’s introduction, and I welcome you to refer to that discussion.

We see this slave girl’s plight as a hostage both to human owners and a controlling spirit. Luke’s placement of this account is interestingly located after the conversion of Lydia. So, we see back-to-back examples of women who desired freedom and would be granted it by divine rescue.

Consider beginning with a story that centers on the theme of “Sanctity of Human Life” to begin your session, specifically seeking a modern story that will transition easily to this story of a troubled young girl who was seen as mere property.

Freedom Gained (Acts 16:16-18)

Ask your group: What made this girl seek after Paul and his companions? Clearly, she was quite an entrepreneur, making use of her time by fortune telling and making her owners rich. Yet, she desired to follow these evangelists, proclaiming whom they followed.

Keep in mind this young girl was not rich. The text says: “She earned a great deal of money for her owners.” This was forced labor. In our present times, what kinds of forced labor do we see young women taking part in and making their ‘owners’ rich? In light of this, we see the devaluing of such people.

While we are not told that this spirit was a demon in particular, we see it clearly troubled Paul with the consistent harassing. This was not a good spirit, and Paul took action in the name of Jesus to rescue this girl from the spirit’s possession.

Compare this brief exorcism to other times in the Bible where we see the healing and removal of spirits and demons. Take notice in these other accounts of how the one who rescued the possessed spoke their command, and also to how the witnesses responded to the exorcism. You will see some interesting comparisons.

The Complaint (Acts 16:19)

The greatest issue we see here is how greed drives people to violence when it is not satisfied. These owners were only near satisfaction when their greedy lust for wealth was being fed; this changed drastically when the money stopped and the girl ceased earning for them.

If you look at verses 20-21, you see how they tried to justify their accusation, yet we can tell the root issue had nothing to do with a spiritual debate. In fact, the girl’s improved spiritual health was seen as a hindrance to their physical desires.

Ask your group: How do we allow our physical wants to win over our spiritual needs? When we do this, we devalue life. The greatest tragedy against justice seems to be when physical gain is made by lives being devalued and even snuffed out.

Valued by God (Psalm 139:13-16)

Before we focus on this portion of Psalm 139, we need to read Psalm 139:1. In this introductory verse, we see the vital fact that God knows us. The value of a person is based on bearing God’s image; thus, God knows us and knows us intimately.

When we consider this meaningful passage as a theme of “Sanctity of Human Life,” we must acknowledge this psalm speaks to the overall valuing of life. Unfortunately, we often limit this passage to the tragedy of abortion, because it speaks to the divine formation in a mother’s womb.

Yet, we read this section following the unjust slavery and usurping of a young woman’s life, noticing that she was as meaningful to God both as she was formed and as she grew. Valuing all life at all life stages is critical to seeing people through God’s eyes.

Verse 15 is encouraging because we know such injustices against life are “not hidden” from God. Ask your group: How do you process such terrible slavery and injustice in light of the truth that it is not hidden from God? It may be good to encourage your group members to share how this discussion makes them feel emotionally.

Conclusion

Emotionally responding to this topic of valuing human life should only be the start for those of us fortunate enough to not be captured as slaves. Consider prodding your group about how to take emotion and turn it into helpful action.

How should we respond in action to modern issues that devalue human life? With many organizations now working against issues such as abortion, human trafficking and drug dealing, there may be local opportunities to take action.

In closing this discussion, perhaps Psalm 139:23-24 would be the best prayer and meditation. We need God to search us and reveal himself to us. To change for the better, our real selves must be acknowledged so we may be led “in the way everlasting.”

Heath A. Kirkwood is lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Lorena.

• The Explore the Bible lesson for Jan. 14 focuses on Acts 17:22-34.

By now, we are well aware of the Apostle Paul’s usual practices when he entered a new city. He would visit the synagogue, seek out followers of The Way and find opportunities to preach the gospel to all. We also see his usual practices brought a great deal of attention and controversy.

We need to remember it was not Paul who was offensive. Rather, it was the gospel message that offended people. In their society, the teachings of Christ and giving one’s self to one deity was a foreign concept. Ask your group: How have you seen people offended by the gospel message?

Now we meet Paul in an unusual place. He was left alone in Athens waiting for his friends to join him. But that would not stop Paul from fulfilling his call. We get a picture of him meandering among the people, looking for his opportunity to share the Good News of Christ.

Unknown God (Acts 17:22-23)

Even though we know from other passages Paul’s oratory skills did not meet everyone’s high expectations, here we see the beginning of a skillful speech given by a man who knew how to engage these high thinkers. To begin with, he was observant. He took note of their practices and found his opportunity in the form of a nameless god.

We need to remember Paul’s goal with this speech was to meet the people where they were and lead them to an understanding of the one, true God. This is why he engaged them on their own turf. We need to ask ourselves: What is the common ground I need to find to share the gospel with my unbelieving friends?

It is impressive that Paul could both acknowledge the Athenians’ religiosity and challenge their understanding. It is not every day that you can use the word “ignorant” and get away with it. This would have enticed the listeners to hear and gain greater knowledge.

The Known Creator (Acts 17:24-29)

The audience must have been hanging on each word because of their interest in attaining more knowledge. This “babbler” was taking advantage of their desire by introducing a monotheistic faith.

Paul’s Jewish roots aided him in speaking to the uselessness of idols and the presence of a Creator God who is actively revealing himself. What are some other tactics Paul used to lead his listeners to a better understanding of who God is?

Consider having your group read Romans 1:16-25, connecting Paul’s concerns for the people in both Rome and Athens. The gospel Paul preached had to include a God who was “not far from any one of us” (17:27)

Judgment by the Son (Acts 17:30-31)

This is where things get dicey. Paul seemed to be very understanding of their ignorance in 17:23, but he would not hold back the truth that God will hold us all accountable, even for truth we are ignorant of. A decision is required: Believe in the one, true God, or receive the negative consequences of God’s righteous judgment.

Even though it is difficult to acknowledge God’s judgment, we do others a disservice when we are silent concerning it. Ask your group: Why do I stop short of telling others about God’s judgment? What are we guilty of when we don’t point to the significance of deciding to follow God or not? We must not forget the fullness of God’s love includes his divine role as judge.

Split Decision (Acts 17:32-34)

This part of the story describes the most nerve-racking part of sharing the gospel—the invitation and response. It is not surprising to see these mixed responses to Paul’s speech, and it is encouraging that a portion of the listeners were wanting to hear more.

Nevertheless, as J. Bradley Chance reminds us, “Openness to further discussion is not the same as belief” (J. Bradley Chance, Acts, 313). This should compel us to keep on sharing, receiving encouragement from those who believe while gaining stamina to continue witnessing to those who do not.

The key issue was on resurrection and its possibility. In truth, it was difficult to embrace for the listeners, possibly on account of its inability to be proven. Yet, we see that those who embraced the faith would continue to take part in the gospel sharing.

Conclusion

The word “bold” stands out as one reads this account. Noting Paul’s situation, it would be easy for anyone to lose heart and simply “fall through the cracks” rather than continue sharing. Stepping out into the Areopagus to find a way to meet the intellects of Athens was a bold move.

This is what the gospel does. When we have experienced its impact, it emboldens us to share in spite of lacking reception. We must also be bold by seeking opportunities, finding common ground, and sharing the offensively life-changing gospel.

Ask each member of your group to answer this question: What do I need to overcome so that I will be bold in sharing the good news? Also, have each person identify one friend whom they need to seek an opportunity to witness.

Seeking boldness reminds us of Joshua’s plea, “Be strong and courageous,” because our God is with us. He is the one who is unknown to many, yet wants to be known to all. Our part is to share boldly so no one will be unaware of him.

Heath A. Kirkwood is lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Lorena.

Hiding in the Hallway: Anchoring Yourself as an MK

By Jeanne Harrison (New Hope)

Most Christians have encountered missionary kids, MKs, or in today’s language, third-culture kids. Because the boys and girls are raised where their parents serve and not in the countries of their parents’ culture, they live in-between. As a missionary kid herself, Jeanne Harrison offers a wealth of heart-felt, sensitive and practical advice in Hiding in the Hallway as she encourages Anchoring Yourself as an MK.

Harrison takes her title from two stories. She and her siblings often hid in the hallway in their home in the Philippines, “spying” on their parents’ meetings and ministry, constantly observing but never participating. Later in the United States, Jeanne hid in her school’s hallway, observing as she tried fit into a world of different clothes, new popular culture, and unfamiliar behavior norms.

The author explores four major ways third-culture kids suffer—feeling rootless, sacrificing comforts, living in a fishbowl in both cultures, and painfully leaving loved ones behind. She outlines common pitfalls, provides tips for furloughs, and lists practical ways to be on mission anywhere. She covers dating, making friends, combating loneliness, and emerging from parents’ shadows. Harrison includes an emotional letter written by a third-culture kid to her parents and closes with two certainties—hardship and hope.

Although Jeanne Harrison clearly writes to missionary kids, Hiding in the Hallway is a must-read for any church that hosts missionary families and any Christian who regularly encounters third-culture kids whether as children, youth or adults.

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president
Baptist General Convention of Texas
Waco

Where Do I Find Jesus?

By Sheila Walsh and illustrated by Sarah Horne (B&H Kids)

Author Sheila Walsh and illustrator Sarah Horne have produced another in B&H Kids award-winning “The Bible Is My Best Friend” series for children ages 4 to 8. Liam and Emma, their humorous dogs Charlie and Wilson, and friend Abby from The Bible Is My Best Friend Bible Storybook return in Where Do I Find Jesus?—written “to help lead your child to Christ.”

The twins invite Abby to attend Kids Club. After playing, singing and eating, the teacher shares the story of Zacchaeus. The children tell Miss Spencer they learned the need to look for Christ like Zacchaeus. Once home, a confused Abby searches everywhere for Jesus. Finally, Emma explains how Jesus lives in her heart. Emma and Liam’s mother appears with hot chocolate and helps Abby pray.

For a young reader, Charlie and Wilson’s quirky comments interrupt the flow, although they bring laughter. Girls and boys also like the colorful illustrations. While they may understand Abby’s need to look for Jesus, some point out that no one tells Abby why she needs to find Jesus and question how she knows so little if the Bible really is her best friend. Fortunately, a closing “Parent Connection” explains salvation in greater detail.

Where Do I Find Jesus? has a place, particularly for a child beginning to learn about Jesus. However at least initially, the book should be read alongside a knowledgeable adult.

Sawyer, Tucker and Chandler Hillman, ages 9, 7 and 4, with their grandmother
Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president
Baptist General Convention of Texas
Waco

Multipliers: Leading Beyond Addition

By Todd Wilson (Exponential Press)

The principle of Matthew 28:18-20 is key to this book by Todd Wilson, senior pastor of Calvary Memorial Church in Oak Park, Ill., and chairman and co-founder of the Center for Pastor Theologians.

Wilson’s work is exhaustive. He explains both how to do the process right and how to avoid doing it wrong. He also presents new strategies and ideas to multiply disciples in a church, as well as multiply by starting churches. This book will tell you if you’re an accumulator or a multiplier.

Furthermore, this is a resource that opens the door to additional free materials, free on-line assessment tools and a list to help you determine where your church is in its growth. Helpful endnotes also point readers to more resources.

This book would be a valuable tool for any pastor, staff member or layman who wants to see his or her church grow or start a new work. This book is phenomenal. It includes timely information on upcoming conferences throughout the United States, including one in Houston.

Anyone wanting to grow an existing church or start a church will enjoy this book.

Skip Holman, minister of discipleship
Northeast Baptist Church
San Antonio

• The Explore the Bible lesson for Jan. 7 focuses on Acts 16:22-34.

The next journey with the Apostle Paul’s new team is well under way as we approach this significant prison story. This lesson is about a “changed family.” It is worth nothing that just before our text, Lydia’s household also was changed. When it comes to leading nonbelievers to a new faith in Christ, there must be openness. This is why it is so significant that for Lydia, “The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message” (16:14).

Since this story is about such openness and life change, ask your group: When was the last time you tried to engage a nonbeliever about receiving Christ? As we learn from this story, we must look to our role as believers in sharing the good news with those around us.

Change requires the openness of the person, but it also requires the faith story of one who has already experienced life change in Christ.

The Situation (Acts 16:22-24)

The situation really is set in verses 16-18, where we see a businessman’s profits placed in jeopardy. A young slave girl had irritated Paul and his companions enough that, in the name of Jesus, he rebuked the spirit that plagued her.

Why would the crowd join in on such a matter? Perhaps they perceived Paul and his message as a significant threat to their way of life. Chaos took over in this story, similar to other crowd uproars, including surrounding Jesus’ own trial.

Consider this question: How does chaos take over real-life situations? We see in this story these people were unified against Paul and Silas, resulting in severe beating and prison. Perhaps we should ponder how chaos may affect us, and how we should take note of how Paul and Silas responded.

The Opportunity (Acts 16:25-28)

It is helpful that this story is told in the third person. The acts of singing and praying are told in the same way the inmates would have experienced the scene that night.

How easy—or difficult—is it to sing and pray during difficulty? Some of us may sing or pray to pass time, but not necessarily to pass circumstances. Realize these prison conditions were beyond terrible, and to offer signs of joy in these places was no easy solution.

Consider a significant lyric from “Praise You in the Storm” by Casting Crowns: “You are who you are, no matter where I am.” Even in the most desperate of places, looking to God, speaking to God, and singing to God reminds us he always is the same, in spite of our circumstances.

The Conversion (Acts 16:29-32)

Now we see what all had to take place for new faith to be realized in these lives. For the good news to be spoken and for hearts to receive, Paul and Silas had to be tortured, thrown in jail, led to sing and pray, and then a miraculous earthquake shattered their situation.

With “saved” meaning rescue, we must wonder whether or not the jailer was speaking about a literal rescue from his pending punishment for an empty jail. But these messengers took advantage by sharing about the ultimate salvation: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.”

There were many ears listening. These messengers also added that such salvation was available to all who believe, even a household. Ask your group: How are you sharing salvation with your family and friends? We must be mindful to see others beyond ourselves and realize they have the same need we have—rescue.

The Transformation (Acts 16:33-34)

Transformation is apparent and obvious in this changed family, but notice another transformation. The “tables are turned” in this story. Paul and Silas go from prisoners to houseguests, and the jailer goes from suicidal to a person with a reason for living. This truly is the power of transformation!

It is amazing that the jailer’s first act of transformation after believing and receiving Christ was to offer hospitality. Hospitality is one of the traditional marks of followers of Christ, and it is displayed prominently in Acts. Ask your group: What kind of change have you seen in your life since you received Christ?

The family was now “filled with joy” rather than fear, and that speaks back to Paul and Silas’s example. They chose to be joyful in a tough circumstance, and their testimony was a catalyst for change and transformation in the lives of others.

Conclusion

Our task is to be ready to meet others with our story of transformation. Stories like this one are not meant to be merely good stories worth remembering. This should cause us to be focused on meeting others and leading them to real life in Christ.

Ask each member of your group to think of at least one person who they will start being intentional about sharing Christ. The process is simple: Pray for their openness, pray for opportunities to share, and pray for transformation. Imagine how families could change for the better if we do this faithfully.

God really can use each of us to lead others to him. The more we allow ourselves to be used by him, the greater and deeper the family of God grows.

Heath A. Kirkwood is lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Lorena.

’Twas the Evening of Christmas

Written by Glenys Nellist, illustrated by Elena Selivanova (Zondervan)

’Twas the Evening of Christmas offers a Bible-based version of Clement Moore’s classic ’Twas the Night Before Christmas. Glenys Nellist’s rhythm parallels the original and reverently tells the nativity story, beginning with Mary and Joseph’s search for a room and ending with a sleeping Jesus. In between appear animals, a baby, angels, shepherds, kings, camels, gifts and a star. The book, which can easily be read aloud by early-elementary boys and girls, includes four lines of text on each two-page spread except the final, “Merry Christmas, my son, and to all … a good night.”

Russian artist Elena Selivanova’s illustrations fill the pages with softly muted images that reflect light and add detail to the poetry. Children enjoy pointing out specific objects in the pictures, including falling feathers on nearly every page and everyone’s favorite little mouse admiring baby Jesus accompanying the text, “Now donkeys, now cows, now pigeons, and sheep, Now oxen and mice in the manger did peep.”

Children ages 4 through 9 and beyond, including adults, will delight in this traditional story told from a fresh perspective with engaging pictures. The Hillman grandchildren consider ’Twas the Evening of Christmas a real keeper.

Sawyer, Tucker and Chandler Hillman, ages 9, 7 and 4, with their grandmother

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Baptist General Convention of Texas

Waco

 Imaginative Prayer: A Yearlong Guide for Your Child’s Spiritual Formation

By Jared Patrick Boyd (IVP Books)

What is most important in God’s story? God loves me, sent his Son to die for me, invites me to accept his grace, desires that I daily follow him and commands me to join his mission to take his love to the world. For every individual, the significant piece of God’s story is he did it for me. In Imaginative Prayer, Jared Patrick Boyd emphasizes being part of Scripture and feeling the experience with the heart.

Boyd, a pastor and father of four daughters, asserts imagination and imaginative prayer help make that connection and contribute to a child’s spiritual development and formation. The author organizes weekly experiences around six topics—God’s love, loving others, forgiveness, Jesus is the King, the good news of God, and the mission of God. Each short module includes connection and formation, imaginative prayer and question-and-answer sections. Step by step, Boyd explains how the parent or mentor can use the material to help a child grow in love and knowledge of the Heavenly Father.

Imaginative Prayer places the child in the story, imagining the sights, smells, tastes and feelings of those who were there centuries ago. The method is clear and concise, and the material is creative, but be warned, guiding one on one through imaginative prayer requires yearlong consistency and commitment.

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Baptist General Convention of Texas

Waco

• The Explore the Bible lesson for Dec. 31 focuses on Acts 15:36-41; 16:1-5.

One of the main roles we should carry out within our local church communities is to strengthen the body of believers. This task teaches us individual humility, seeing the needs of others as greater than our own. In the church, there is no room for anything less.

When members focus on tearing down the local body, they are replicating the world more than they are following Christ. This is why the word “edify” should be our aim—to build up and not tear down. Ask your group: How can we edify each other?

For example, Paul exhorted the Ephesians to use their words in an edifying manner: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen” (Ephesians 4:29). We see that edification and strengthening go hand in hand.

Parting Ways (Acts 15:36-39)

Coming from the most edifying letter (15:23-29) and the most strengthened response (15:30-35), we sadly turn to a harsh reality. Separation happens, and there is no pretty way to look at it. Up to this point, the message of Acts clearly was being driven by this dynamic duo of Barnabas and Paul.

Yet, disagreements have a way of interrupting what is going well. I encourage you to not try to beautify this picture, and at the same time do not venture into exasperation. Even two upstanding and faithful servants may disagree.

Their disagreement was whether or not to re-include a deserter, and the word for “deserted” is affiliated with “apostasy” (J. Bradley Chance, Acts, 276). We are not to judge whose preference was right. We may, though, look to how they responded. They simply went their different ways to further the gospel and strengthen the congregations.

Consider these questions: How may we disagree and still strengthen the church? At what point—if any—is it the right decision to part ways in light of a disagreement? What are current issues in churches that are causing significant disagreements?

A New Team (Acts 15:40-41; 16:1-3)

Antioch once again launched missionaries, but this time in new groups. Luke, the author of Acts, continues forward with the work of Paul rather than Barnabas, and so we are introduced to new characters who become more familiar—Silas and Timothy.

Silas was introduced to us briefly as one of the believers who brought the letter from Jerusalem (15:22), who was well qualified to “encourage and strengthen the believers” (15:32) as a prophetic voice. As an encourager, he was a much-needed succeeding voice to the absent presence of Barnabas.

Timothy, however, was a discovery to this new team, a prospect discovered by a talent scout in a spiritual sense. His background as being both a Greek and Jew would serve well in light of Paul’s call as a Christianized Jew to the Gentiles.

The question comes up about Timothy’s circumcision and why Paul would do this. In Paul’s letters we see Timothy referred to as “his son,” so it makes sense that they would both have mutual appeal to Jews and Gentiles. Both were seen as teachers of “grace over law,” and both would be found faithful to each audience’s present belief.

Growth Seen (Acts 16:4-5)

“So the churches were strengthened in faith and grew daily in numbers” (16:5). By the witness and encouragement of servants, these churches that Paul, Silas, and Timothy visited were given strength to continue in their good work.

This brief vignette encapsulates our lesson today, showing that believers who serve the congregations by edifying them will be a part of something alive and real. The natural reaction to edification is growth. How does this reality stir us to engage our churches as encouragers and strengtheners?

Consider starting here: Ask your group members to speak an edifying word to your group. Next, after hearing these words, ask you group to describe how these edifying words spoke to them. It is amazing to see how edification births edification, and strength gives more strength.

Conclusion

Since it is through words that we see edification at work in our passage, allow me to share a post I noticed on social media recently: “Before you speak, T-H-I-N-K. Is it True? Is it Helpful? Is it Inspiring? Is it Necessary? Is it Kind?”

While this post may not be directly from the Bible or a theologian or philosophical thinker, it is a good reminder that if we are to strengthen others, we need to pause and consider what we say and do to ensure that we are strengthening others.

Have your group answer this question: What do I need to change in me so that I will be a person who strengthens others, and strengthens the church? Encourage everyone to think critically about this. Considering this may be the key to a stronger group, a stronger church and a growing body of believers.

Heath A. Kirkwood is lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Lorena.

Recapturing the Wonder: Transcendental Faith in a Disenchanted World

By Mike Cosper (InterVarsity Press)

In Recapturing the Wonder, Harbor Media founder Mike Cosper seeks to “lift the veil a little bit on how the world has shaped us, and how we’ve learned to see things through the lens of disenchantment.” Given Cosper’s intended audience—lay people in the church without formal theological training—he accomplishes this goal well. Picking up on the work of writers like Charles Taylor and James K.A. Smith, Cosper examines ways in which modern institutions shape our understanding of the world without our knowledge, and how the messages these institutions impart to us affect our understanding of the Christian faith.

Cosper is concerned especially with the effect of modern technology on the Christian experience of the world. Fearing that endless mediation of important life experiences through LED screens has “disenchanted” the world for many, Cosper suggests spiritual disciplines such as contemplative Bible reading and structured prayers can help increase awareness of God’s presence in the world. Cosper’s writing is accessible and thoughtful, making his book both enjoyable and thought provoking.

Jake Raabe, student

Truett Theological Seminary

Waco

• The Explore the Bible lesson for Dec. 24 focuses on Luke 2:25-38.

We pause our study in Acts for this significant time and to remember a brief vignette that followed soon after the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. We should see this passage as connected to last week’s study in Acts 15 by recalling the promise would be for all people—no exclusions.

Before delving in to the narrative, we should not miss the lowly estate of the infant Jesus and his earthly family. His customary circumcision took place, and now the purification for him and his mother was required in Jerusalem.

Notice their offering—a pair of doves or pigeons (Luke 2:24). The family could not afford a lamb due to their humble means. So, they brought the offering they could afford (R.T. France, Luke, 38). Even the Savior of the world knew lowliness, which makes the Promised One approachable and available to all. This is good news!

Simeon’s Praise (Luke 2:25-32)

Simeon’s greatest attribute clearly is the fact that God’s Spirit was both upon him and leading him. We get the idea he is an older man, and by tradition, we assume he was a man of spiritual influence. Yet, we know little about him and nothing of his “title,” but that is not what matters.

He was a stranger who was moved by God to cross paths with Jesus’ family. It seems as if he did not ask permission, but he simply took the child, held him and praised God vocally. Ask your group: How has God used a stranger to speak truth into your life?

This stranger’s greatest desire was to see the hope of Israel, and God was faithful in drawing him to meet their hope—Jesus. In his praise, this man spoke a great deal, but the most significant wording is found in verses 31-32. Israel’s hope was seen by everyone, and it would be for everyone.

Since we are at the doorstep of Christmas, consider how our praise is similar to Simeon’s. Now is a good time to consider whether we get as excited about God’s hope being born for us all. How can we reintroduce such praise in our Christmas celebration?

A Future Piercing (Luke 2:33-35)

Hope requires action, and love requires sacrifice. These latter requirements do not take away from hope and love, but they do help us see what it takes for them to be fulfilled. What would you be thinking if Simeon spoke these words over your family?

Joseph and Mary were shocked and in awe of Simeon’s praise statement. Their marveling soon would be followed by a prophetic word: With blessing comes pain. From our perspective in as readers in the 21^st century, we easily can see that the blessing outweighs the pain. Yet, for these new parents, we can imagine the sobering effect of verse 35.

Just as they celebrated this new life, we also celebrate the birth of Christ. At the same time, we must recognize the intended purpose of “God with us.” Jesus did not come to be a beautiful baby or a perfect man; he came to rescue us with his own life.

Anna’s Affirmation (Luke 2:36-38)

Anna is intriguing. She has a more recognizable pedigree than Simeon and stood unique from the rest as a prophetess. Like Simeon, she was devout and faithful. Sadly, we are not told the words of thanksgiving she spoke that day.

Yet, her life speaks to the faithfulness of God. She also looked to Israel’s redemption. She was a faithful worshipper, a longtime survivor of pain, and a witness to those around her. Anna is our example of an evangelist; she shared the good news she witnessed with everyone with whom she came into contact.

Ask your group: How does Anna’s life challenge us to be better witnesses to others? Her role in this story is one of validation. R.T. France points out a distinction between Simeon and Anna: While his praise may have been private, Anna’s was public (R.T. France, Luke, 40).

Conclusion

Following this brief narrative, we simply are told Joseph and Mary did all that was required and returned to Nazareth to begin life with their new child. Luke tells us Jesus “grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him” (Luke 2:40).

As the literal Son of God, it makes sense that he would be so wise and full of grace. Yet, one must connect his being blessed by Simeon and Anna to this reality. Anna and Simeon’s part in our Savior’s life cannot be overlooked.

What do we gain from this brief interaction? Two strangers engaged a lowly family and began to tell the world that God’s hope had arrived. This is our call today. With two strangers as our example, we are witnesses who cannot hold back words of praise for God’s goodness. This good news is, indeed, for all people!

Heath A. Kirkwood is lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Lorena.

God Gave Us Family

Written by Lisa Tawn Bergren, illustrations by David Hohn (WaterBrook)

Lisa Bergren’s writing and David Hohn’s art produce the fun-filled God Gave Us Family for children ages 3-7. In the story, Little Pup attends an outrageously huge family reunion. Set outdoors from dawn to dusk, charming illustrations take Little Pup from swings, swimming, hiking and hide-and-seek to s’mores and fireflies.

As kinfolk arrive with scads of little ones in tow, Little Pup asks why his family only has one child. Throughout the day, he meets other families shown as different creatures. Papa and Mama explain them from adopted Little Bear who looks like a bunny to Wally Wolf’s seven siblings, the geese cousins whose dad lives on a different pond, and the raccoon relatives who sleep in a tree.

As annoying little wolf cousins splash Little Pup, Papa wisely observes: “Even family can get on our nerves. … But because we’re family, we figure out how to get along.” Ultimately, the cousins build a fort together, howl at the moon, and nod off to grandparents’ stories. Closing his eyes, Little Pup decides, “He’d never want a different family. … He loved the one God gave him.”

While teaching lessons about God’s gift of different families, the book also illustrates having fun doesn’t always mean video games, smart phones or movies. God Gave Us Family would be a great read around the Christmas tree—just save enough time for the girls and boys to talk about their own grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Chandler Joy Hillman, age 4, with her grandmother

Kathy Robinson Hillman, former president

Baptist General Convention of Texas

Waco

Martin Luther: The Man Who Rediscovered God and Changed the World

By Eric Metaxas (Viking/Penguin-Random House)

Eric Metaxas, author of the best-selling Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy, presents a definitive look at Martin Luther. At 480 pages, this book is both authoritative and exhaustive.

The biography provides a full treatment of Luther’s life and ministry in Wittenberg, Germany, his translation of the New Testament and his ultimate excommunication from the Catholic Church. Metaxas does a wonderful job not only presenting the life of Luther, but also acquainting readers with the times in which he lived, the issues he faced and results of his ministry. Metaxas shows how Luther helped change the church and, in the process, transformed Germany and world history. After all, the Reformation he sparked eventually inspired the spiritual and social reforms of George Whitefield, William Wilberforce, John and Charles Wesley and others.

The book includes a helpful timeline of Luther’s life and key activities, and it includes a detailed index and bibliography.

Be advised: This is not an easy read. It is more for the academically minded. It is well worth the effort, but allow time to absorb its depth.

Skip Holman, minister of discipleship

Northeast Baptist Church, San Antonio

Jesus Every Day—Prayers to Awaken Your Soul

By Mary DeMuth (Harvest House)

Mary DeMuth, a Texas-based author of more than 30 fiction and nonfiction books, has produced something different this time around. A book of prayers may seem odd in our modern day, especially in the evangelical world. But Jesus Every Day—Prayers to Awaken Your Soul is the outgrowth of DeMuth’s monthly newsletter, which ends with a prayer for her readers. They requested more. The 366-day devotional includes a daily Scripture passage.

Before reading the one-month sampler copy I received from a Christian bookstore, I wondered if praying along with someone else’s words might seem awkward or a bad fit for me. However, the selected Bible verses—from Genesis through Revelation—stir the desire to partake in DeMuth’s response of praise, thanks, confession and supplication. Readers can join an unseen fellowship of those who pray along each day, adding fresh words to the chorus.

Patti Richter

Heath

• The Explore the Bible lesson for Dec. 17 focuses on Acts 15:6-11, 24-31.

Disagreements within the church often are broadly reported. It’s as if they are plastered on billboards to air the dirty laundry of ordinary people. We must remember that’s exactly what the church is—ordinary people trying desperately to follow our unordinary God.

People on both sides of the disagreement described in Acts 15:1-5 had good motives. They simply disagreed. In response, the church did the right thing by calling a gathering to discuss and decide the matter prayerfully. Ask your group: How might we learn from this example?

What matters most is that God’s rescue—salvation—is made available to all who will believe and follow. Adding anything to grace causes it to cease being grace, and we are left with law alone that will not rescue us. Today, we also should strive with the reality of grace and how it shapes us, not our laws or regulations.

No Distinction (Acts 15:6-11)

After reading this portion of Peter’s speech, have your group read Romans 3:21-31. Discuss the truth of God being the God of all—Jews and Gentiles—and how faith is more important than religious expectation.

Even though there is “no distinction” between the Jewish and Gentile converts, there is a clear distinction between those who believe and those who do not—the gift of the Holy Spirit. Verse 8 was the key ingredient Peter focused on to prove the Gentiles needed nothing else than the Spirit of God inside them.

The great concern is in verses 10-11. The “yoke” here reminds one of the burden of slavery. A yoke binds the ox to the wagon it is pulling, and the ox cannot get away from it. The last thing we want to do is add a burden to those who are being freed from sin! How do we keep from adding unnecessary burdens to new believers?

Peter’s response is that we must declare grace as our means to salvation. Nothing we do can rescue us from our sinful slavery, and so, grace has to be what moves us from slave to free.

Clear Expectations (Acts 15:24-29)

This letter was intended to be a blessing to all, and it is beautiful to read this in light of James’ statement: “It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God” (Acts 15:19). These believers could celebrate in the same freedom without added burdens.

Notice the structure here: the problem is stated, unity is pictured, the solution is presented, and Christians are urged to live in light of their mutual salvation. This is beautifully done to both welcome and offer their mutual expectation for living out their salvation.

Have your group bring up (or come up with) an example of what this would look like in your church body. How might churches do well to follow this example? The fact is that when we welcome, we also must follow God’s expectation of us as we follow him. Our living should change, and so our lifestyle should mimic God, not the world.

Secure Encouragement (Acts 15:30-31)

Henri Nouwen once said, “One of the main tasks of theology is to find words that do not divide but unite, that do not create conflict but unity, that do not hurt but heal.” These words here prove this to be true. The encouragement brought unity.

As the council at Jerusalem had gathered, these local gatherings of believers gathered, probably in angst to hear what their “fate” would be. Can you imagine the party that exploded as they heard these words? This unity brought gladness for the entire community.

In verse 32, we are told two prophets lingered to add strength by encouraging these churches. This should be our practical task—strengthen the church by speaking encouraging words of unity. How will we accomplish this practically in our church?

Conclusion

Highlight the significance of this story to your group, because we all must walk away from this lesson (1) affirming that salvation is available to all who will believe and follow, and (2) strengthening the church by encouraging words of unity.

Like us today, the church then was a unique blend of variety. Jews were converting, Gentiles were converting, and the church was growing into uncharted lands and people groups. At the same time, their variety of backgrounds and expectations had to be submitted to God’s expectations, which required them to lay down their own expectations.

Consider this quote from Felix Mendelssohn, the great classical composer: “The essence of the beautiful is unity in variety.” Ask your group to speak a word of encouragement, giving thanks for the variety we come from and the unity we share in God’s rescue.

Heath A. Kirkwood is lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Lorena.