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The Studies Stream offers easy access to all the existing Growing Disciples video resources. This stream also features new ‘Deep Dive’ studies on selected books and important themes of the Bible. Frequently Asked Questions will also be answered in written articles. New resources will be added each month.
The title of Mark’s gospel makes clear that it’s all about Jesus, who is the Messiah, the Son of God. Mark presents this message in an economical and direct manner that will be useful for the persecuted 1st century Christians of Rome. Mark’s economic use of language should never be thought simplistic. Instead, he invites the reader’s inquiry into Jesus’ claim to be the kind of suffering servant saviour Messiah described in the latter writings of the prophet Messiah.
The bible gives both a big picture view of God's movement in history and close up looks at the lives of individuals. As we embark on the book of Exodus, both are apparent. God's big picture promise to the offspring of Abraham meets the life of a baby born into dark times in Egypt. Vanessa Hughes leads this series of devotionals in the first half of the book of Exodus.
Joseph draws a distinction between the human will and the divine will. A human might plan something, and carry it all out'� thinking that they are achieving their goal'� but it is God who determines the outcome. What Joseph's brothers intended for harm, God intended for good, for the saving of many lives. In the same vein, we are reminded of Herod and Pontius Pilate. The crucifixion of Jesus they planned for evil, God used for good, for the saving of many lives.
Reflecting this first part of Joseph's story, following his example, we are challenged to live under the sovereignty of God. This means abandoning deception and manipulation, and instead committing ourselves to living God's way. God's promises remain, but the way we live in response to them is the true narrative of our lives. Regardless of whether we are slaves, prisoners, or Prime Ministers; what really matters is our readiness to act and make decisions based on God's promises to us in Jesus Christ.
Although he returned to his father's household a very wealthy man, the one thing that mattered to Jacob-Israel was God's blessing'� which amounted to so much more than material wealth and prosperity. In contrast to Esau, above all else, Jacob-Israel wanted God, God himself.
Stuart Holman continues our Growing Disciples series on Genesis. Abraham's faith in God and in his promises grows over time. Near to the end of his life, we see Abraham give tangible expression to his trust in God by purchasing land from the Hittites.
The rather mundane account of Isaac in Genesis 26 has one simple point: this is what blessing looks like. God promised Abraham and his offspring land, people and relationship with him'� and that's exactly what Isaac has. Blessing for the Christian is not exactly the same, but it is no less real. Stuart Holman leads this Daily Devotional for Growing Disciples.
