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.
Acts 2 records the first fully Christian sermon on the day of Pentecost. The response of the assembled crowd to this messages prompts us to consider our response to the call to turn away from our sin, to confess our need of a saviour, and to embrace Jesus as both Lord and Messiah.
Jesus� resurrection is meant to trigger a great mission� the proclamation of Jesus as Lord and the forgiveness of sins. This proclamation will cross boundaries and borders, moving out from the epicentre of Jerusalem, to the surrounding region of Judea; and then crossing over to the region of Samaria, and the to the ends of the world.
The reality, the historicity and impact of Jesus� resurrection stands firm. The best conclusion is that it really did happen. Paul knew it happened. The Corinthians knew it too. It was common knowledge. It is also our guarantee of our resurrection to eternal life.
Thomas proclaims Jesus, �My Lord and my God!� Doubting Thomas truly believes and his belief is expressed in a fully Christian confession. His simple statement shows us what being a Christian is all about.
Jesus interprets the meaning of his resurrection for his disciples so that there is no doubt. His resurrection means forgiveness of sins and it means mission must follow.
The �Road to Emmaus� experience of walking and conversing with the risen Jesus has become a paradigm for Christians over the centuries: what does a disciple of Jesus do? They walk their journey, in company with Jesus, as he personally reveals himself in new and fresh ways. How does he do that? By illuminating the scriptures with reference to himself.