Church may 11 2025!

 

Summary

Today’s gathering began with gratitude for safe travels, family connections, and the blessing of being together as a church community. We paused to honor all women—mothers and those who have nurtured in countless ways—recognizing that God’s love and calling extend beyond traditional roles. Through prayer and fellowship, we celebrated the unique contributions and journeys of each woman present.

The heart of our time together centered on the call to engage deeply with God’s word. Using the imagery of a lightsaber from Star Wars, we explored how each of us is given a powerful spiritual weapon: the Bible. Like any tool, its effectiveness depends on our willingness to learn how to use it. Study is not reserved for scholars or pastors; it is for everyone, and it can take many forms—whether through deep research, quiet meditation, or simple reflection and discussion with others. The key is to approach scripture with curiosity, humility, and a desire to let it shape us.

We reflected on Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, noting not only how he resisted the devil by quoting scripture, but also how the enemy himself twisted scripture out of context. This underscores the importance of knowing God’s word well enough to discern truth from distortion. Just as Google Maps is only helpful if we pay attention to its directions, scripture guides us only when we engage with it intentionally and thoughtfully.

Together, we practiced studying Romans 11:33-36, using resources to uncover its original meaning, cultural context, and contemporary significance. We saw how Paul’s words are a crescendo of praise, rooted in awe at God’s wisdom and the mystery of his ways. We were reminded that humility is essential in our approach to scripture; we do not have all the answers, and our understanding is always partial. Yet, God’s word is clear in its core message, and as we study, we are formed and transformed.

Finally, we remembered that Jesus himself knew scripture intimately—even quoting it in his final moments. As we came to the Lord’s Table, we were invited to follow his example: to let God’s word dwell in us richly, guiding us, shaping us, and drawing us deeper into the mystery and beauty of God’s love and redemption.

Key Takeaways

- The call to study scripture is for everyone, not just scholars or pastors. Each person can find a way of engaging with God’s word that fits their personality and season of life—whether through deep research, quiet meditation, or simple reflection. The important thing is to approach the Bible with openness and a willingness to let it shape our hearts and minds. [21:27]

- Knowing scripture deeply is essential for spiritual discernment. As seen in Jesus’ temptation, even the enemy can use scripture out of context to mislead us. When we are rooted in God’s word, we are equipped to recognize truth, resist temptation, and avoid being swayed by half-truths or cultural assumptions. [25:36]

- Humility is vital in our approach to God’s word. Paul’s doxology in Romans 11 reminds us that God’s wisdom and ways are far beyond our full comprehension. We must hold our interpretations with humility, recognizing our limitations and being open to learning from others and from God’s ongoing revelation. [49:08]

- Studying scripture is not about accumulating information but about transformation. As we go beyond surface reading—pausing, meditating, and asking questions—we allow God’s word to become part of us, shaping our character and guiding our actions. This deep engagement forms us into people who reflect Christ in the world. [53:09]

- Jesus is our model for knowing and living out scripture. He quoted scripture in moments of trial and in his final hours, showing us the importance of letting God’s word dwell in us richly. As we follow his example, we are drawn into deeper relationship with God and equipped to live faithfully in every circumstance. [58:30]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[08:15] - Opening Reflections and Family Updates
[10:19] - Prayers for Safe Travels and Blessings
[12:13] - Honoring All Women in the Church
[14:39] - Blessing for Mothers and Women
[16:20] - The Spiritual Battle and Our Weapon
[19:02] - Learning to Use Our Spiritual Sword
[20:10] - The Word of God: More Than a Book
[22:40] - Jesus’ Temptation and the Power of Scripture
[25:36] - Discernment: Recognizing Twisted Scripture
[28:33] - Scripture as Our Spiritual GPS
[29:49] - Practicing Bible Study Together
[39:29] - Exploring Romans 11:33-36
[43:04] - Bridging Context: Paul’s World
[46:54] - Theological Humility and Contemporary Significance
[52:39] - Going Deeper: Study as Spiritual Formation
[54:35] - Practical Ways to Study Scripture
[56:39] - Encouragement to Begin Studying
[58:11] - Jesus’ Example and the Lord’s Table
[01:02:07] - Communion and Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

---

### Bible Reading

- Romans 11:33-36
*Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!
“Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?”
“Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?”
For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.*

- Luke 4:1-13 (Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness)

---

### Observation Questions

1. In Romans 11:33-36, what words or phrases does Paul use to describe God’s wisdom and knowledge? What stands out to you about the way Paul praises God?
[[31:26]]

2. When Jesus is tempted in the wilderness (Luke 4:1-13), how does he respond to each of the devil’s temptations? What is the significance of his responses?
[[23:31]]

3. According to the sermon, what does the devil do in the third temptation that is different from the first two?
[[25:17]]

4. What are some of the different ways the sermon suggests people can study the Bible?
[[21:27]]

---

### Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Paul ends his long teaching in Romans 11 with a doxology—a song of praise—about God’s wisdom and mystery? What does this say about how we should approach God’s word?
[[40:16]]

2. The sermon points out that even the devil can quote scripture, but he does so out of context. What does this teach us about the importance of knowing scripture well?
[[25:36]]

3. The sermon talks about humility when studying the Bible, recognizing that we don’t have all the answers. Why is humility important when we read and interpret scripture?
[[49:08]]

4. The pastor compared the Bible to Google Maps. What does this analogy suggest about how we should use scripture in our daily lives?
[[28:33]]

---

### Application Questions

1. The sermon says that studying scripture is for everyone, not just pastors or scholars. What is one way of engaging with the Bible that fits your personality or current season of life? How could you try this in the coming week?
[[21:27]]

2. Jesus used scripture to resist temptation, and the devil tried to twist scripture to mislead him. Can you think of a time when you heard a Bible verse used in a way that didn’t seem right? How did you respond, or how could you respond differently now?
[[25:36]]

3. The sermon encourages us to approach the Bible with curiosity and humility. Is there a topic or passage you’ve avoided because it seemed confusing or intimidating? What would it look like to approach it with openness and a willingness to learn?
[[49:08]]

4. The pastor described different ways to study the Bible, from deep research to simple reflection. What is one practical step you could take this week to go deeper in your Bible reading—such as looking up a word, reading a commentary, or discussing a passage with a friend?
[[54:35]]

5. Paul’s doxology in Romans 11 reminds us that God’s ways are beyond our full understanding. How do you react when you come across something in the Bible that you don’t understand? Do you tend to ignore it, get frustrated, or dig deeper? How might you respond differently after this discussion?
[[49:08]]

6. The sermon says that studying scripture is not just about information, but about transformation. Is there a recent Bible passage that has changed the way you think or act? If not, is there one you’d like to focus on this week?
[[53:09]]

7. Jesus is our model for knowing and living out scripture. What is one way you can let God’s word “dwell in you richly” this week, as Jesus did—even in small, everyday moments?
[[58:30]]

---

*End with a time of prayer, asking God to give your group a deeper love for his word and a humble, teachable heart as you study together.*

Devotional

Day 1: The Word of God as Our Spiritual Weapon
The Word of God is not just for inspiration or information, but is our spiritual sword—sharper than any two-edged sword—given to us to stand strong in the daily spiritual battles we face. Just as a Jedi must learn to wield a lightsaber, we must learn to use Scripture effectively, making it second nature through study, practice, and engagement, so that we are equipped to face temptation and challenge with confidence and clarity. The Bible is most powerful in our lives when we know how to use it, allowing it to guide, protect, and empower us in every circumstance. [20:23]

Hebrews 4:12 (ESV)
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Reflection: What is one practical way you can begin to “wield” the Word of God more intentionally in your daily life this week—perhaps by memorizing a verse, meditating on a passage, or discussing Scripture with someone else?


Day 2: Resisting Temptation by Knowing Scripture
When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He responded to every challenge by quoting Scripture, showing us that knowing God’s Word deeply is our best defense against the enemy’s lies and distortions. The devil himself can twist Scripture out of context, but when we are rooted in the truth, we can discern deception and stand firm, just as Jesus did. Studying Scripture helps us recognize God’s voice, avoid being misled, and respond to temptation with wisdom and authority. [24:32]

Luke 4:1-13 (ESV)
And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry. The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.” And Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone.’” And the devil took him up and showed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time, and said to him, “To you I will give all this authority and their glory, for it has been delivered to me, and I give it to whom I will. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours.” And Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve.’” And he took him to Jerusalem and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written, ‘He will command his angels concerning you, to guard you,’ and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.’” And Jesus answered him, “It is said, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time.

Reflection: Think of a recent situation where you felt tempted or confused—how might knowing a specific Scripture have helped you respond differently, and what verse could you prepare for next time?


Day 3: The Depth and Mystery of God’s Wisdom
God’s wisdom, knowledge, and ways are far beyond our understanding, and everything exists by His power and for His glory; this truth calls us to awe, humility, and worship as we seek to know Him more. Even as we study and ask questions, we must remember that God’s thoughts are higher than ours, and our pursuit of understanding should always lead us to praise and wonder at His greatness. Recognizing our limitations, we approach Scripture not to master it, but to be transformed and to glorify the One from whom all things come. [31:07]

Romans 11:33-36 (ESV)
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?” “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.

Reflection: As you read this passage, what is one area of your life where you need to trust God’s wisdom above your own understanding, and how can you express awe and gratitude to Him today?


Day 4: Approaching Scripture with Humility
We are called to approach the study of God’s Word with humility, recognizing our own limitations and the vastness of God’s wisdom, and being willing to listen, learn, and admit when we do not have all the answers. Theological humility means holding our convictions with grace, being open to correction, and respecting others as we seek to understand God’s truth together. This attitude protects us from pride and division, and keeps us focused on the essentials of faith while allowing God’s Spirit to shape us through His Word. [49:08]

James 1:21 (ESV)
Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

Reflection: Is there a belief or interpretation you hold that you need to revisit with humility—perhaps by seeking wise counsel, studying further, or being open to God’s correction?


Day 5: Letting God’s Word Transform and Guide You
Studying Scripture is not just about gaining information, but about allowing God’s Word to go deep within us, transforming us from the inside out and guiding us through life’s challenges. Whether you study deeply or reflect on a short passage, the key is to engage with God’s Word in a way that helps you recognize His voice, stay on course, and become more like Christ. With the Holy Spirit as your guide, studying the Bible can become a joyful and life-giving practice that shapes your heart, mind, and actions. [57:05]

Psalm 119:105 (ESV)
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Reflection: What is one step you can take this week to let God’s Word guide a specific decision or area of your life, inviting the Holy Spirit to make it come alive and transform you?