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Acts 6:7 – The word of God continued to spread; the number of the disciples increased greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith. (NRSV)
I wish that more church folks would go to Sunday school. In Scotland, Sunday school was meant only for school children, and I often felt that the adults lost out on the opportunity to deepen their faith each week. In North America, I was delighted to discover that Sunday school, which usually takes place before worship starts, is available for children, youths, and adults. I have come to appreciate the depth of discipleship that regular Sunday schooling creates. More than sixty percent of our regular worship attendees participate in our church's Sunday school, which is a wonderful community of church folks who support, encourage, and love one another, especially in times of trouble, grief, or illness.
When I look back at the formation of the Christian church in Jerusalem, I am glad to read that many of the priests, who were great teachers and servants of God, joined this new faith movement. Their knowledge of the Scriptures and dedication to God must have laid a solid foundation for Christ's work to continue among His people. Originally, most of the priests had opposed Jesus, but after the wonderful day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit moved many of them to accept Christ as their Saviour and Lord. It must have been a remarkable moment in the early history of the church, as well as a great source of encouragement for the first apostles.
Lots of people have told me that they would like to deepen their faith and commitment to Christ. I believe that they really mean those words. The best way that I have seen for this to take place occurs when folks take a step in the right direction and join a weekly class or Bible study group, especially on Sunday mornings. It may involve getting up earlier and making the time to join a class, but the long-term benefits and blessings far outweigh the initial inconveniences that occur.
Points to ponder: How do I deepen my faith commitment to Christ? Am I willing to join a Sunday school class or weekly Bible study group?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are our Teacher, as well as our Saviour. Many of Your parables, encounters, and lessons have a great depth of spiritual faith, biblical knowledge, and divine wisdom contained in them. Encourage us to learn more about our faith by seeking a group of church folks to study with on a regular basis. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
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Thanks for the good word, John.
Thanks, John, for encouraging us with this devotional. Blessings.
Again, John, sage advice! It is difficult here due to aging congregations, and an exodus to larger centres, when youth leave area schools. But, we who remain do try to keep the lamps burning!
Blessings.
Our “Sunday“ school takes place on Thursday nights, beginning with supper and then a variety of classes. Over 150 people attend, all ages.
Thanks for your message. In a large church, small groups is the best way to get to know others.
Dear John Stuart,
Thank you for the very useful devotional about fulfilled prophecy. I know of nothing other than prophecy that will give such a solid base to belief in Jesus Christ and the veracity of the bible as a whole.
Do you know of a bible study book that is good for a little group of persons who meet around a kitchen table?
John,
As a retired minister/snowbird from Canada, I find that volunteering to teach a Bible study class in our church home away from home, is a mutual blessing that enriches the faith of ALL who participate. There’s nothing like preparation to keep a teacher learning more about Jesus.
Blessings.
Yes, I agree Bible study is very important. But it is just as good at home during the week with a group; as it is at our Church. Right now I am leading two bible studies during the week and I can see the growth. The most important thing we can do to grow is to read the bible. You can talk until your tongue falls off; but unless they take their time and read the bible the words we say will go in one ear and out the other. Reading God’s word is the only way to know God’s character.
Good morning John – Thank you for this devotional, and particularly for the two “points to ponder”. Those are GREAT provocative questions!
Blessings.