The Watford Church of Christ Podcast
We are on a journey to that future life exploring the incredible plans God has for us on earth to love Him and to love others. Join us on this journey!
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Episodes
Sunday Dec 13, 2020
Sunday Dec 13, 2020
(The Miracle in the Manger)
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” (Luke 2:8–20 NIV11)---
Introduction: vv1-8
QUESTION: Something nice you stumbled across in an unlikely place?
- Searching for a vaccine!- Most searched-for terms on Google this year: [https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-55245304]
QUESTION: Manger X 3 - why?
- Not the point, but the pointer- Whoever heard of a king in a manger?! An animal’s feeding trough.- Imagine the shepherds… “Did the angel say ‘manger’ (v12)?” “They couldn’t mean ‘manger’, could they?”
"Augustus was the adopted son of Julius Caesar. He became sole ruler of the Roman world after a bloody civil war in which he overpowered all rival claimants. The last to be destroyed was the famous Mark Antony, who committed suicide not long after his defeat at the battle of Actium in 31 BC. Augustus turned the great Roman republic into an empire, with himself at the head; he proclaimed that he had brought justice and peace to the whole world; and, declaring his dead adoptive father to be divine, styled himself as ‘son of god’. Poets wrote songs about the new era that had begun; historians told the long story of Rome’s rise to greatness, reaching its climax (obviously) with Augustus himself. Augustus, people said, was the ‘saviour’ of the world. He was its king, its ‘lord’. Increasingly, in the eastern part of his empire, people worshipped him, too, as a god." Wright, N. T. Luke for Everyone. 4. Accordance electronic edition, version 2.2. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2011.
- Different from Augustus- The awesome was in an awkward place at an awkward time- Two responses to finding the awesome in the awkward
---
1. Fear Turns Into Joy, vv9-14, 20
- Could say, surprise turns into joy
QUESTION: Biggest or loudest concert you’ve ever attended?
- Fear and joy. - Are they thinking about what happened in **Exodus 19**? - The angels correct the shepherds’ fear and tell them that a better response is joy. - Is this the difference between the Old and New Covenants?- Joy prompts worship.- Growing as a Christian is helped by enlarging the ways in which our awe is inspired- Spiritual disciplines make a huge difference- What places/experiences enlarge your joy?
- How has your ‘devotional’ year been? Time to assess?
Suggestion: use the ‘examen’ explained in my QTC podcast going out on 24 Jan. If you want it earlier I’ll send you a copy.---
2. Confusion Turns Into Talking, vv15-19
- v17 - spread the word- What made them so talkative?- Sometimes it’s hard to talk about Jesus- Sometimes it’s easy
- How can we make it good news for all people? Make it good news for one person.- Social justice issues are personal issues- Who might God be sending you to this Christmas? - Family, neighbour, stranger?---
Discussion Section
Three options:
1. Pick one question for your group to discuss2. Attempt to answer both questions3. Give each person the choice as to which question they want to answer
Question 1 : Share about something in your Christian life which at first provoked fear in you, but led to joy. What have you been afraid of which turned out to be a blessing
Question 2 : Share about a time when talking about Jesus came naturally to you
---
Conclusion: v20
- The God of glory in a manger- The God of glory on a cross- The God of glory in us…..- Pray before taking bread and wine
Tuesday Dec 08, 2020
Tuesday Dec 08, 2020
You have found a podcast from the Watford Church of Christ. This week Stefan Wolmarans teaches us about the life of love as expressed in 1 John 2:7-11.
If you'd like to find out more about us please email here: thewatfordchurch@gmail.com
God bless, Malcolm
Monday Nov 30, 2020
Monday Nov 30, 2020
A sermon for the Watford church of Christ---
Intro, Luke 17:11
QUESTION: "Share one thing you've been grateful for this week - or even today"- Today we talk about gratitude, thankfulness. We are commanded to be thankful:“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15 NIV11)- Commanding thankfulness is right, but problematic - if we do not understand why---
1. The compassion of Jesus makes us thankful - Luke 17:12-13
QUESTION: "Why do you think the ten men stood at a distance? Was Jesus unwilling to go to them? Were they afraid?" "What does it tell you about the way they viewed Jesus?" Respect? Not wanting to bother him or get him in trouble? - Jesus told to make audacious requests:“Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. ’” (Matthew 6:11–13 NIV11)“For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:15–16 NAS95)QUESTION: "How has the compassion of Jesus showed up in your life?"---
2. The power of Jesus makes us thankful - Luke 17:14- Trust in Jesus- Thankfulness follows obedience- “As they went” - i.e. healing after obedience. Faith always sees fruit after obedience. See Noah, Hebrews 11:7f.- Thankful for the command - leads to obedience - leads to fruit- That power is linked to our practice of what Jesus taught - in advance of seeing it bear fruitQUESTION: "How has the power of Jesus showed up in your life?"---
The Heart of Thankfulness - Luke 17:15-16
- Response; praise & thanks QUESTION: What motivated the Samaritan to come back to Jesus? Why didn’t the other nine return? QUESTION: What does this passage teach you about gratitude?---
Conclusion - Luke 17:17-19
- All about God- All included- Positive future- Faith/salvation- What do we learn about faith from what Jesus says here?---
Communion:
“After taking the cup, he gave **thanks** and said, “Take this and divide it among you. And he took bread, gave **thanks** and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave **thanks**, broke it and began to give it to them.” Luke 22:17, 19; 24:30 NIV11
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).
If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).
Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.
“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)
God bless, Malcolm
Sunday Nov 22, 2020
Sunday Nov 22, 2020
Sermon for the Watford and Dublin churches
22 November 2020
Introduction
Most important thing to do for virus, economy, social well being?
Used to have one priority, now have several!
Lot of our malaise when feeling overwhelmed, flat, anxious or overstressed is due to confused priorities, or, what's really important?
Near end 2020
Review and reset
This question has been asked since time immemorial
“One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” (Mark 12:28–29 NIV11)
So, we know loving God and neighbours is primary
But, how do we figure out what that means for our lives, personally?
That's what today's lesson is about......
PART 1: Unhealthy ways to decide what's important
a. Guilt
b. Fear
c. Makes us feel better
Imagine if you made decisions about our children our marriage or our friends on these bases.
I will do what you want because I am feeling guilty about mistakes I've made in the past.
I will do what you want because I'm afraid otherwise you might hate me or leave me.
I will do what you want not because it makes you happy with because it makes me feel better.
That would not be a healthy relationship with a human
It certainly is not a healthy relationship with God.
Questions for the groups: What was the important thing they knew or learned? Why was and is this important? How would the importance of this manifest itself in your life?
PART 2: Healthy ways to figure out what's important
Five characters to show us the way
1. David
“One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple.” (Psalm 27:4 NIV11)
It's easier to teach a Christian the bible than it is to teach them how to worship.
David - a man after God's own heart.
‘Beauty’ = favour, pleasantness
A good quiet time could be to meditate on what is ‘beautiful’ about the LORD. Would that include His holiness, mercy, long-suffering nature, loving-kindness, integrity, justice, completeness, perfection, wisdom, .....? Interesting that in Ps 50.1-6, His/Zion’s beauty is expressed in terms of fire, speaking, tempest, judgment etc.
His desire to be close to God is very active - ‘ask’, ‘seek’ X2, ‘dwell’, ‘gaze’
‘dwell’ used of a married couple who have set up house together
2. Rich young ruler
“Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”” (Mark 10:21 NIV11)
Do you have any barriers to full surrender to Jesus?
He starts on his knees, but turns his back on Jesus
This man has no material needs and no law-needs. He knows he has other needs, but what are those needs. Jesus is about to tell him - and it is clearly not what he man expected.
response, however, moves beyond command to an abondonment and trust that involve the losing of self in yielding, trustful communion....The move is from willing duty to utter delight.” Brueggemann, Psalms, 196
3. Mary
““Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”” (Luke 10:41–42 NIV11)
Sometimes good things are why we miss out on the best thing.
The better priorities, chosen consistently over time, yield a lasting legacy of godliness
4. The blind man
“He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!”” (John 9:25 NIV11)
Important to remember the transforming power of Jesus in our lives.
It's never doctrine that converts anyone, it's always the evidence of the power of Jesus in peoples' lives.
Perhaps especially true for our children
Have your testimony ready.
5. Paul
“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13–14 NIV11)
Baggage from the past will obscure what is important for the present and the future.
Paul did not deny his baggage, but he did not let it get in the way of being ambitious for God.
We never fully ‘arrive’ on earth, but progress can be a delight
Conclusion
What have our characters taught us about what is important?
David: knowing that God is at the heart of prayer
Rich young ruler: knowing God is at the heart of surrender
Martha: knowing God is at the heart of service
Blind man: knowing God is at the heart of witness
Paul: knowing God is at the heart of ambition
Centring on Jesus makes what's important clear
Suggestion:
Use these five characters as a way of assessing what's important to you going into 2021
As a filter to help you assess where you are and want to be in 2021
Scriptures used in or related to today’s lesson:
Psalm 27:4; Matthew 23:23; Mark 10:21; 12:28-29, 33, 39; Luke 10:41-42; 16:15; John 9:25; 1 Corinthians 15:3; Philippians 3:13-14
Questions for the breakout rooms:
What was the important thing they knew or learned?
Why is this important?
If this was important to you, how would it show up in your life?
Thank you for listening to this podcast. You can find more episodes in our feed. Our web site is http://www.watfordchurchofchrist.org.
Join us in our adventure: 10.30 AM on most Sundays at Laurance Haines School, Vicarage Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0DD.
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about the Bible or the Cahristian faith? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send us your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: thewatfordchurch@gmail.com.
Thanks again for listening. Have a super day.
God bless,
Malcolm
Watford, Watford church of Christ, Malcolm Cox, mccx, Croxley Green, Bushey, Leavesden, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, ICOC, ICCM, Chesham, Chorleywood, Aylesbury, Croxley, Laurance Haines School, Vicarage Road, Bible teaching, Sunday School, Youth Ministry, Watford Church, Churches in Watford, Churches in London, Churches in Hertfordshire, Watford UK, Holywell, Watford England, Watford in Hertfordshire, West Watford, Churches of Christ,
Sunday Nov 15, 2020
Sunday Nov 15, 2020
15 November 2020
IntroductionHands of JesusQUESTION: Name some of the things he touched
“Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.” (Matthew 8:3 NIV11)
“Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”;” (Matthew 9:29 NIV11)
“Then he went up and touched the bier they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!”” (Luke 7:14 NIV11)
“Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”” (John 20:27–28 NIV11)
Read Chapter 23 - Book: "Fearfully and wonderfully" - Brand, Yancey
Conclusion
What can we do with our hands to bring the healing of Christ to the world?
“Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” (1 Corinthians 12:27 NRSV) - not like his body, but we are his body
Prayer of Theresa of Aliva
Christ has no body now, but yours.
No hands, no feet on earth, but yours.
Yours are the eyes through which Christ looks with compassion into the world.
Yours are the feet with which Christ walks to do good.
Yours are the hands with which Christ blesses the world.
“Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last.” (Luke 23:46 NIV11)
How does Jesus heal the world?
He offers his hands to be nailed to the cross for our healing
He sends our hands to heal others
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Thank you for listening to this podcast. You can find more episodes in our feed. Our web site is http://www.watfordchurchofchrist.org.
Join us in our adventure: 10.30 AM on most Sundays at Laurance Haines School, Vicarage Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0DD.
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about the Bible or the Cahristian faith? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send us your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: thewatfordchurch@gmail.com.
Thanks again for listening. Have a super day.
God bless,
Malcolm
Watford, Watford church of Christ, Malcolm Cox, mccx, Croxley Green, Bushey, Leavesden, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, ICOC, ICCM, Chesham, Chorleywood, Aylesbury, Croxley, Laurance Haines School, Vicarage Road, Bible teaching, Sunday School, Youth Ministry, Watford Church, Churches in Watford, Churches in London, Churches in Hertfordshire, Watford UK, Holywell, Watford England, Watford in Hertfordshire, West Watford, Churches of Christ,
Sunday Nov 08, 2020
Sunday Nov 08, 2020
Remembrance Sunday 2020
Introduction
Good to remember - in order to be grateful
I hope today to help us learn how to use our memories to grow in gratitude and have faith for the future
Why what we remember matters
We are what we remember
We become more of what we choose to remember, what memories we dwell on
Takes us one direction or another
Not about suppressing memories, but selecting what we focus on
Must acknowledge the influence our memories have on us
I hope today to help us find a way to nurture our memories in a healthy way to find gratitude underpinning our past and hope inspiring our future
1. Remember What God Has Already Done
Introduction
QUESTION: Earliest meaningful memory? Often not first, but connected to strong emotion
God knows we need to remember
Remembering built into Israel's history
e.g. Deuteronomy
“Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you.” (Deuteronomy 32:7 NIV11-GK)https://accordance.bible/link/read/NIV11-GK#Deut._32:7
Remembering built into church/Christian life
Lord's supper
“And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”” (Luke 22:19 NIV11-GK)https://accordance.bible/link/read/NIV11-GK#Luke_22:19
Peter's letters
“Therefore I intend to keep on reminding you of these things, though you know them already and are established in the truth that has come to you. This is now, beloved, the second letter I am writing to you; in them I am trying to arouse your sincere intention by reminding you” (2 Peter 1:12; 3:1 NRSV) https://accordance.bible/link/read/NRSVS#2Pet._1:12
Remembering aided by thinking about the heroes of faith
QUESTION: who can you remember as mentioned in Heb 11?
Able, Enoch, Abraham, Moses, Noah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Israel passing through Red sea, Israel marching round Jericho, Rahab.....
“And what more should I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets— who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, quenched raging fire, escaped the edge of the sword, won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. Women received their dead by resurrection. Others were tortured, refusing to accept release, in order to obtain a better resurrection. Others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned to death, they were sawn in two, they were killed by the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, persecuted, tormented— of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground.” (Hebrews 11:32–38 NRSV)https://accordance.bible/link/read/NRSVS#Heb._11:32
Lived in caves - lockdown!
They inspire us
What do you remember as to how God has been with you, helped you, his kindness etc.?
What helps us to remember what God has ALREADY done?
2. Remember Who Inspired the Heroes of Faith
Past heroes to us and Biblical heroes essential as an aid to gratitude and example to us
But need inspiration for today and tomorrow that is more than simply human
For this we needs Jesus
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1–2 NRSV)https://accordance.bible/link/read/NRSVS#Heb._12:1
QUESTION: What helps us to REGULARLY remember Jesus?
"Therefore...."
Our turn to run the race
And you can do it
'looking to': aphorontes the runner realises distractions are before him, so he deliberatly looks away from these things to the thing that will keep him focussed.
Not a casual glance nor a simple noticing of Jesus, but a steady, deliberate fixing of the eyes to the end that the mind, heart and energy are all fully engaged on following Jesus.
What is it about Jesus that inspires you most to continue in the race?
This focus helps our ambition to be purified so as to remain spiritual
Conclusion
Remember your heroes of faith
Remember Biblical heroes of faith
Above all....
Remember Jesus
Communion
Prayer: bread and wine
“And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”” (Luke 22:19 NIV11-GK) https://accordance.bible/link/read/NIV11-GK#Luke_22:19
Sunday Nov 01, 2020
Sunday Nov 01, 2020
Thank you for listening to this podcast. You can find more episodes in our feed. Our web site is http://www.watfordchurchofchrist.org.
Join us in our adventure: 10.30 AM on most Sundays at Laurance Haines School, Vicarage Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0DD.
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about the Bible or the Cahristian faith? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send us your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: thewatfordchurch@gmail.com.
Thanks again for listening. Have a super day.
God bless,
Malcolm
Watford, Watford church of Christ, Malcolm Cox, mccx, Croxley Green, Bushey, Leavesden, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, ICOC, ICCM, Chesham, Chorleywood, Aylesbury, Croxley, Laurance Haines School, Vicarage Road, Bible teaching, Sunday School, Youth Ministry, Watford Church, Churches in Watford, Churches in London, Churches in Hertfordshire, Watford UK, Holywell, Watford England, Watford in Hertfordshire, West Watford, Churches of Christ,
Wednesday Oct 28, 2020
Wednesday Oct 28, 2020
"There is No Longer Jew nor Greek: Dialogue on Christianity and Race"
Honest dialogue about Christianity and racial identity informed by Scripture and experience of black Christians
“God has put the body together, giving greater honour to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:24-27 NIV11
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28).
In the verse quoted above, Paul attempted to capture the oneness of the people of God. This oneness emerged from the premise that believing in Jesus made believers spiritual descendants of Abraham and members of the worldwide, multi-ethnic family of God. In this family, all notions of domination and hierarchy were dismantled, and people acknowledged only the loving Lordship of the risen Jesus. This oneness, unprecedented in the ancient world, reflected the counter-cultural love of Jesus himself, who called a Zealot and a tax collector – normally sworn enemies – to live as brothers.
As such, in a world whose history is tainted by the effects of domination, imperialism, marginalisation and enforced slavery, Christians and the Christian community ought to be models in reconciliation and healing. However, the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Eric Garner and Trayvon Martin (to name a few) and the resurgence of Black Lives Matter protests have resurfaced deep wounds that have not healed, in the hearts of many of our black brothers and sisters. This combined with weaknesses in the Christian understanding of ethno-racial unity within and outside Christian communities has impacted the faith of many.
This session aims to bring the experiences of black Christians into conversation with Christian scripture to help facilitate honest dialogue, promote understanding and navigate the sensitive landscape of Christianity and racial identity.
Speakers include Dr Andrew Ezeilo and Sandra Ezeilo, Rachael Corson, Elleen Okotie, Mike Desouza and Dr Andy Boakye.
The format included a mix of sharing, teaching and 30 minutes for discussion in breakout rooms.
Thank you for listening to this podcast. You can find more episodes in our feed. Our web site is http://www.watfordchurchofchrist.org.
Join us in our adventure: 10.30 AM on most Sundays at Laurance Haines School, Vicarage Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0DD.
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about the Bible or the Cahristian faith? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send us your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: thewatfordchurch@gmail.com.
Thanks again for listening. Have a super day.
God bless,
Malcolm
Watford, Watford church of Christ, Malcolm Cox, mccx, Croxley Green, Bushey, Leavesden, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, ICOC, ICCM, Chesham, Chorleywood, Aylesbury, Croxley, Laurance Haines School, Vicarage Road, Bible teaching, Sunday School, Youth Ministry, Watford Church, Churches in Watford, Churches in London, Churches in Hertfordshire, Watford UK, Holywell, Watford England, Watford in Hertfordshire, West Watford, Churches of Christ,
Sunday Oct 25, 2020
Sunday Oct 25, 2020
Acts 28:16-31---How can we maintain our passion for spreading the good news?How can we notice opportunities God is giving us to spread the good news?What could we do to capitalise on those opportunities?---How can we notice the opportunities God is giving us for spiritual growth?What can we do to capitalise on those opportunities?--- Introduction
- Could you use some inspiration?- Looking at Biblical character in 'lockdown' circumstances- Circumstances beyond our control - how react? In faith?
- House arrest - “When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.” (Acts 28:16 NIV11)- Two years - “For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him.” (Acts 28:30 NIV11)- Last two weeks - spreading encouragement, and prayer; hospitality- This week......
1. The word of God grows in lockdown
- Converted Onesimus: “I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains.” (Philemon 1:10 NIV11) - God brought him to Paul - are we noticing who God is bringing to us- Impact on the guards: Philippians 1:12–13; 4:22- Unique opportunities given to us via lockdown
Discussion: "What creative ways could we use to spread the Word to more people?"
- Ideas: - Blog - Recorded testimonies - Podcast - Videos on youtube - TikTok - Send material to me if not sure what to do with it---2. Spiritual growth in lockdown
- Practicing what he preached: “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” (Romans 5:3–5 NIV11) - In what spiritual areas has God got your attention?- Rejoicing in sufferings: “Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church.” (Colossians 1:24 NIV11)- “But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.” (Philippians 2:17–18 NIV11) - Might be best opportunity for spiritual growth you've had in years!- “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live!They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.“Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.” (Hebrews 12:7–13 NIV11)-Renovare Book Club-Lectio 365 App
Discussion: "What is it about this time that is, or could be, a catalyst for your spiritual growth?"---Conclusion
Key scripture:- “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him and was designated by God to be high priest in the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 5:7–10 NIV11)
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).
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“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)
God bless, Malcolm
Sunday Oct 18, 2020
Sunday Oct 18, 2020
Introduction
House arrest - “When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.” (Acts 28:16 NIV11)
Two years - “For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him.” (Acts 28:30 NIV11)
Last week - spreading encouragement, and prayer
This week our topic is hospitality - believe it or not!
QUESTION: "WHAT IS HOSPITALITY?"
Kindness to strangers; entertain as a stranger; entertain as a guest; to entertain; to lodge with; to place yourself under another.
1. Hospitality to Strangers
First meeting: Acts 28:17-20
Got them to come back
Second meeting: Acts 28:23-29
Got them thinking
Like God
Gen 2 & 3
Ps 23
Jesus
4,000; 5,000
Last Supper
Who should we host?
“Then Jesus said to his host, “When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind,and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”” (Luke 14:12–14 NIV11)“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2 NIV11)
📌 DISCUSSION: What hospitality can you offer to strangers? At the present time? Considering the restrictions we have?
2. Hospitality to your Friends
At one time or another Paul had many companions living with him:
Timothy
Went to Philippi - “I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, that I also may be cheered when I receive news about you.” (Philippians 2:19 NIV11)
Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother,” (Philemon 1:1 NIV11)
“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,” (Colossians 1:1 NIV11-GK); “Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi,” (Philippians 1:1 NIV11)
Epaphras
In Rome with Paul -
“Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.” (Colossians 4:12 NIV11)
Paul established a 'prayer ministry' in lockdown
“Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings.” (Philemon 1:23 NIV11)
Praying for Colossians (started church there, “You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf,” (Colossians 1:7 NIV11)
Onesimus
Converted while with Paul in his house arrest: “I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains.” (Philemon 1:10 NIV11)
Visited the church in Colossae: “He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here.” (Colossians 4:9 NIV11)
Went back to Philemon: “I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you. I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel.” (Philemon 1:12–13 NIV11)
Tychicus
With Paul:
“Tychicus, the dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know how I am and what I am doing.” (Ephesians 6:21 NIV11)
“Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord.” (Colossians 4:7 NIV11)
Sent to Ephesus and Colossae
Marcus (John Mark)
With Paul: “My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.)” (Colossians 4:10 NIV11)
Likely to go to Colossae: as above
Aristarchus
With Paul in prison: “My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.)” (Colossians 4:10 NIV11)
Demas
With Paul in prison: “Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings.” (Colossians 4:14 NIV11)
Fell: 2 Tim 4:10
Luke
With Paul in prison: “Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings.” (Colossians 4:14 NIV11)
Jesus (Justus)
With Paul in prison: “Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me.” (Colossians 4:11 NIV11)
Epaphroditus
With Paul in prison:
“But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs.” (Philippians 2:25 NIV11)
“I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent.” (Philippians 4:18 NIV11)
The way he expresses himself about these people, and they way they were a team together indicates that their enforced lockdown together strengthened their bonds rather than weakened them.
Their time with Paul prepared them for God work through them
📌QUESTION: What is this time preparing you for?
Conclusion
📌QUIZ: What have we learned today?
List the names of all the people who shared Paul's house arrest
Tell me some scriptures that demonstrate Biblical hospitality
Which scripture did we look at earlier that revealed the kinds of people we might invite in to enjoy some hospitality?
Going back to Jesus as host at the last supper.....Jn 13.2ff - host
Further scriptures: Romans 12:13; 1 Timothy 3:2; 5:10; Titus 1:8; 1 Peter 4:9; 3 John 8.
Summary of References to Paul's housemates:
Timothy: Phil 1:1, 2:19; Philemon 1:1
Epaphras: Col 1:7, 4:12; Philemon 1:23
Onesimus: Philemon 1:10, 12-13; Col 4:9
Tychicus: Eph 6:21; Col 4:7
Marcus (John Mark): Col 4:10
Demas: Col 4:14; 2 Tim 4:10
Luke: Col 4:14
Jesus (Justus): Col 4:11
Epaphroditus: Phil 2:25, 4:18
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).
If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).
Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.
“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)
God bless, Malcolm