Bible in Life Adult Curriculum Bundle Preview by David C Cook

BIBLE IN LIFE

ADULT TEACHER GUIDE

FALL 2025

JUDAH, FROM ISAIAH TO EXILE

Ezekielsays, “Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail. . . . Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing” (Ezek. 47:12).

To this day around the world, many kinds of trees shed leaves as they prepare for seasonal change. As days shorten, leaves lose their green color, revealing vibrant yellow, orange, and red. But what if those falling leaves didn’t decay and turn into compost? What if God were to redesign even the decaying leaves and repurpose them for healing?

That is part of Ezekiel’s vision of hope. Anyone who feels awestruck by the splendor of leaves passing away, God invites to rest in the hope that theses glories of creation shall be reshaped and remade, until all is well. God gives light to the darkness, new life to the lifeless.

Adult Teacher Guide is published quarterly by David C Cook, David C Cook.org. © 2025 by David C Cook, 4050 Lee Vance Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, U.S.A. Bible-inLife® and David C Cook and its related logo are registered trademarks of David C Cook. All rights reserved. ISBN 978-0-781-44765-2 Printed in South Korea. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the King James Version. Lessons and/or Readings are based on the Uniform Series International Sunday School Lessons International Bible Lessons for Christian Teaching copyright © 2022 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Digital products are subject to the End User License Agreement (EULA) found at DavidCCook.org/EULA/ and any additional terms or restrictions that may accompany the product. Digital products cannot be returned, sold, or relicensed. This product license is good for 6 months. After 6 months, you must purchase another license. LEGO® is a trademark of the LEGO Group of companies. All rights reserved worldwide. Spotify® is a trademark of Spotify AB. All rights reserved worldwide.

David C Cook would like to thank the following writers and contributors: Madison Cannon, Joel Clarkson, Lee D. Hoffer, Patricia Merritt, Tanae Murdic, Maralee Parker, Michael Rade, Ryan Rice, Chad Ryan, Carl Simmons, Charlotte Snyder, Denise Snyder, Justine Tegen, Faith Waters, Randy E. Williams, Roslyn Yilpet

Editors

Jason Hitchcock

Trinity Richards

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Lessons for Fall 2025: Judah, From Isaiah to Exile

Unit 3: Ezekiel and the Exile of

INTRODUCTION TO THE QUARTER

God guided the people of Judah, and the same God helps and guides us today. The time of the prophets reminds us of our own context: people distracted, chasing after idols, and forgetting what God had done. Over the next few months, we will read about God’s way of reminding His people of His love and purpose, often through the sending of prophets. As we approach these stories, we find that they teach us about ourselves and our relationship with God.

As in our own lives, God provides hope and redemption through the humble and afflicted servant described in Isaiah

53.

In the story of Isaiah and the renewal of the temple, we see theological reasons for the decline of Judah. Good theology and obedience to God and His Word is critical to preventing decline, both personally and corporately. This shows up when we look at the prophet Isaiah and two faithful kings of Judah. This unit will also give us a glimpse into the destruction of the temple. This devastating event in the history of Judah was brought about, in part, by social injustice, moral decay, and disobedience. But as with most Bible stories, there is hope and a redemptive purpose. As in our own lives, God provides hope and redemption through the humble and afflicted servant described in Isaiah 53.

In the second unit, we are going to look at the prophet Jeremiah, who lived through the Babylonian assault on Jerusalem. God gave Jeremiah a blunt message to share with His people: change! They did not listen, and judgment came. We will see that there are consequences, even today, if we chose a path of disobedience to God. But we will also discover that God continues to be a God of hope, and He would ultimately bring them home again. Jeremiah hears a message of hope, that the law of God will one day be written on the heart and not in stone (Jeremiah 31:33). Today, God’s law is written on our hearts and is our guide in a world that is dark and treacherous.

The final unit of this quarter examines the words of God through His prophet Ezekiel. As we read these passages, we find they are full of brutality, despair, and destruction. This might not sound all that different than the evening news today! But just as Ezekiel preaches hope and restoration after the downfall of Jerusalem, there is hope and restoration promised for us as well.

Throughout the quarter we will see that there are consequences for sin and disobedience, but God always offers hope, forgiveness, and restoration. In times of

GET THE MOST FROM EACH LESSON

1 Start the Conversation

Many of us show up thinking about our mortgage or about our family relationships, and that is normal! This curriculum is designed to engage our everyday experiences and to set up a genuine conversation to examine what God might be teaching us throughout the week, not just through group study. Use this introduction and questions to spark a connection that prepares your class for the themes of the biblical text.

2 Study Today’s Scripture

Lively Bible study is the goal, for “the word of God is alive and active” (Heb. 4:12). You might have students who think that Bible study is dull and routine. Nothing could be further from the truth: the more that we examine the Bible in its historical context, the more we gain eyes to see and ears to hear the heart of a heavenly Father, who invites each of us to turn to Him. Whether we are examining Old or New Testament texts, the suggested questions and answers are relevant and compelling, often with more than one “right” answer. Use the Teacher Commentary notes to share even more information with your class. You will have engaging points to add when tough ques-

3 Apply the Message

This is where the rubber meets the road, where we assemble the points emerging from the biblical text to describe one particular message. This section will always address a new covenant application, and it is an opportunity to spend extra time processing the words of Scripture, sometimes by drawing connections to other parts of the Bible. Suggested questions and answers are always provided, and most weeks have an optional handout with additional activities (for instance, if your class enjoys art, writing prompts, or games).

4 Live It Out

This is the opportunity for each person to make a response to God’s invitation. Often, that response can be as simple as writing words of a prayer or making a concrete plan of obedience to God’s Word. Students will have a key verse and a list of planned readings for each day, and notes of what to anticipate in the week ahead. In addition, you’ll have a suggested prayer for the whole group, so that you might conclude the lesson and dismiss your class into the world, living for Christ and His kingdom.

ENHANCE YOUR TEACHING

Adult Teacher Kit

The Adult Teacher’s Guide and Adult Resources are packaged together for your convenience. Use the reproducible worksheets, additional discussion starters, and full-color Bible background posters to fully engage participants in each lesson.

Power for Living®

This weekly, magazine-style handout features articles on unique ministries, world missions, spiritual trends, and Christians serving the Lord throughout the world. The issues also include daily Bible readings, puzzles, poems, and book excerpts. Power for Living connects God’s truth to real life and can also be used as an outreach tool in prisons, in doctors’ offices, and as part of a ministry to homebound members of the church community.

Real Life Downloaded

This FREE online resource combines current news stories with your weekly Bible lessons. Each week you will find an alternative introductory activity featuring a news story and discussion questions that relate to the lesson. Also online are links to additional Bible commentary, worship playlists that relate to the focus of the lesson, and additional resources to help you prepare for and teach your lesson. Explore it today at RealLifeDownloaded.com

Adult Resources

This addition to your teaching has been created to enhance the experience of the quarter with more visual aids and supplementary handouts for the class. Many of the larger themes and big ideas come together in these components, and the handouts give your students something else to take with them.

3 full-color posters to enrich your teaching

2 reproducible sheets that enhance the posters and feature a quarterly topic

12 reproducible handouts that support the lesson with an activity and/or discussion prompts

Quiet Hour®

When you use these daily devotions, you’ll read through the recommended passage of Scripture, consider how fellow believers have applied the passage’s theme to daily life, and be encouraged to step into daily living with God in your life. Reflecting on the Bible each day invites us to a deeper fellowship with Christ as we apply God’s Word to our lives. This devotional aligns with the ISSL (International Sunday School Lessons) Home Daily Bible Readings listed each week in the Adult Teacher’s Commentary and Adult Student Guide.

MORE RESOURCES FOR STUDY

For every lesson, you will also find more commentary in the two-volume Wiersbe Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments. You can study the Bible verse by verse with one of America’s most beloved pastors, Dr. Warren Wiersbe, former pastor of The Moody Church in Chicago and the general director and Bible teacher for the Back to the Bible radio broadcast. These commentaries allow you to study the Bible in easy-tofollow sections that emphasize personal application, as well as original meanings. Developed from Dr. Wiersbe’s best-selling “Be” series.

A full-Bible commentary, in two volumes, written by acclaimed author and speaker Warren Wiersbe

To help interpret Ezekiel’s vision in the final lesson of the quarter, imagine being able to share from pages 1341–42 of the Wiersbe Bible Commentary: Old Testament.

In examining all the information Ezekiel recorded for us, we must be careful not to lose the major messages among these important details. There is a sense in which the messages of the entire book are wrapped up in one way or another in chapters 40 to 48. The spiritual lessons are as meaningful to us today as they were to Israel in Ezekiel’s day, or as they will be to the Jewish people in Messiah’s day.

Separation from sin. Ezekiel was a priest as well as a prophet, and it was the responsibility of the priests to teach the people the difference between the holy and the unholy and the clean and the unclean (Lev.

10:10–11; Ezek. 44:23). Israel drifted into sin because they began to erase these differences and became like the pagan nations around them. The temple in Jerusalem, with its special courts and holy chambers, reminded the people that God put a difference between the holy and the profane. For people to “call evil, good, and good, evil, [and] put darkness for light, and light for darkness” (Isa. 5:20) is to violate the basic principle of holy living. (See Ezek. 40:5; 42:14–20; 43:7.)

Worship. The temple was a place of worship, but the heart of the worshipper was far more important that

his or her gifts. The Jews in the southern kingdom of Judah had defiled the holy temple of God and dared to worship Jehovah along with the idols of the nations around them! God’s people don’t decide how they are going to worship the Lord; they simple obey what He has told them in His Word. Fulfillment. One of the purposes of the millennial kingdom is that God might fulfill His promises to His people, promises He couldn’t fulfill because of their rebellion and unbelief. In His grace and mercy, God gave Israel a wonderful land, a perfect law, and a glorious Lord. They defiled the land by their terrible crimes; they disobeyed the law by adopting pagan practices; and they defied their Lord and tempted Him by resisting His calls to repentance. But during the kingdom, Israel will trust the Lord,

Becoming New: A 100-Day Journey of Transformation through God’s Word

obey His Word, worship in His temple as they should, and bring delight to the Lord who will rule from David’s throne. But there’s a further fulfillment, for the Kingdom Age will “wrap up” all the previous ages in God’s revelation of Himself and His purposes. The land will be like the Garden of Eden (36:35), complete with a river of life and trees of life. The promises made to Abraham will be fulfilled and his descendants will possess and enjoy their land. The law of Moses will be obeyed from the heart, and the Lord will be worshiped and glorified. The Messiah that Israel rejected at His first coming will be received and honored and will reign over them (43:6–7). God will fulfill every kingdom promise found in the pages of the prophets!

By Warren Weirsbe and Edited by Dan Jacobsen

For more study, these theme-based daily readings focus on spiritual transformation in this all-new devotional curated by Warren Wiersbe’s grandson. It offers a 100-day journey through Scripture, helping readers not only understand God’s Word but live it out in the power of the Holy Spirit. Now also available as an audiobook!

Meaningful Ways to Honor Your Pastor 5

October is Pastor Appreciation Month, but it’s worth taking the time to encourage your pastor any month of the year

• Handwritten Letter or Card

One of the best ways to show that you care about them is to simply drop them a handwritten note of gratitude and thanks, perhaps highlighting something they have said or done that impacted you.

• Fill a Box or Jar of Memories

Find a group of people within the church and have each person write a positive, uplifting memory on a piece of paper. Collect all those memories in a decorated box or jar. Your pastor will be able to draw from that encouragement little by little, when needed.

• Organize a Calendar of Encouragement

Pastors need to be appreciated all year long. Find people to sign up for a specific month of the year to send a card or a small token of appreciation to the pastor. Don’t forget to remind people of what month they signed up for.

• Start a Pastor’s Prayer Group

Pastors need prayer. Start a small group of people that will commit to praying for the pastor regularly throughout the day or week. Let the pastor know that specific people are praying regularly.

• Honor Your Pastor’s Spouse (if applicable)

If your pastor is married, there is no greater way of showing appreciation to them than appreciating their spouse. Any of the above suggestions work equally well.

A FAMILY’S EXAMPLE

INVITATION

Prepare your heart and pause before you teach this lesson

As I have grown to enjoy watching football, so have my traditions surrounding it. Now, every week in autumn, there are certain days—Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays—on which I wear certain clothes (a jersey and stocking hat), eat certain foods (pizza and wings), and spend time with certain people (my wife and her family). In a way, football has rearranged how I dress, eat, and keep time! But adherence to these traditions is part of what makes watching football so enjoyable and enriching. It feels like the traditions keep me grounded.

Football wouldn’t be nearly as important if it weren’t anchored in a devotion to a team. What underlies any tradition is honor and community.

Sometimes our traditions conflict, and we must choose; our choice reveals what we honor most. I understand the temptation to honor football over God when I feel that itch to duck out of church in time for a noon kickoff. But even when there is no conflict, our adherence to traditions still reveals something: our capacity to honor. Even if I never choose watching football over going to church, God knows what gets me excited. He knows I am capable of honoring and desiring Him at least as much as I love my team.

As you prepare to teach this week, think about any traditions you are devoted to keeping (whether out of enjoyment or obligation). What do you tend to honor? What could this possibly say about your capacity to honor God and His ways?

REALLIFEDOWNLOADED.COM

Find alternative lesson introduction, Spotify® playlists, and links to more teaching resources

On Contemporary Worship Weekly, listen to “Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand” by Anchor Hymns, Sandra McCracken, and Chaunda Jefferson. This song is all about trusting God and following His ways. On Traditional Worship Weekly, listen to “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” played by Jadon Lavik.

LESSON FOCUS:

Be faithful to God’s ways, even more than human traditions.

LESSON SCRIPTURE: Jeremiah 35:5–11

1 Start the Conversation

Share about important family traditions.

2 Study Today’s Scripture

Jeremiah uses a family’s traditions as an example of faithfulness.

3 Apply the Message Traditions are one way that we demonstrate faithfulness.

Suggested Materials:

Ɏ Adult Resources: Reproducible Handout—“Tradition and Truth”

4 Live It Out

Be intentional about the good that can come from your traditions.

For more commentary, see p. 1250 in Wiersbe Bible Commentary: Old Testament.

A Look Ahead A Look Back

As we have been learning about the prophets, we have seen that their job of communication is not easy. This week provides a concrete example of something that Jeremiah does as a demonstration, something to show what faithfulness means. God uses Jeremiah to try to get through to the people of Judah, even when they are not listening. “Living Parables: The Life of Prophets” and its associated handout give more examples.

1 Start the Conversation

Share about important family traditions.

student guide

LESSON 07 page 45

A FAMILY’S EXAMPLE

When I was young, my immediate family and all my relatives would celebrate Christmas at my mom’s home in Florida. There would be nearly thirty aunts and uncles, siblings, kids, and grandkids squished together for the holiday. Then, on Christmas morning, we’d gather around the tree to open gifts one at a time—always starting with the eldest person, out of respect. We’d go in order of age until we reached the youngest. Even all these years later, the tradition stands. It looks different, with different family members and in a different home.

Our lives may be marked by constant change, but family traditions can be steady pillars. My family’s way of celebrating Christmas was a reminder that we honor our parents and elders. Each of us remembers taking a turn as the one who had to wait.

I don’t know if my parents intentionally used our Christmas tradition to teach me to honor elders. But the tradition did teach me. It became a product of shared values for our family culture. Keeping honorable family traditions is good for us, perhaps even good in God’s eyes. However, keeping God’s commands is even more important. It would be disastrous to honor our elders but fail to abide by the words of our heavenly Father. We can follow traditions, honor our parents, and rehearse the values of our family. But above all, we follow God.

Discussion Questions and Answers

1 What is one of your favorite family traditions?

Many of us grow up celebrating important milestones and holidays with some kind of specific tradition. You may notice that many traditions are associated with meal times. That is no coincidence, since meals are an important community event.

2 What value did that tradition teach you?

Traditions can teach us to value certain things: diligence, patience, or quality time. Some traditions don’t have an obvious purpose, but they still form us into a closer community (a group that does something together).

3 What kind of good tradition do you want to start with your friends and family?

We probably don’t put enough thought into the formation of new traditions. Traditions can help us see the passage of time as we witness that some things change, while some never do. We should create God-honoring traditions to share with family.

Jeremiah 35:5–7

2 Study Today’s Scripture

Jeremiah uses a family’s traditions as an example of faithfulness.

Lesson Context

Jeremiah 35 takes place during the reign of King Jehoiakim, most likely around 605 BC, before Jeremiah is barred from entering the temple (Jer. 36:5). He has spent several years calling the people to turn back to God, often by unorthodox means: hiding and ruining a new garment (Jer. 13:1–11), smashing a clay jar as an example of God’s destructive power (Jer. 19:10–11), even wearing a yoke (Jer. 27:2; 28:10–11). Here Jeremiah uses a peculiar example—in fact, a peculiar people—to get his message across.

Points to Emphasize

Read Jeremiah 35:5–7, and note the following:

• Jeremiah has invited a family called the Rekabites to join him in a room of the temple.

• Once there, Jeremiah places bowls of wine before them and invites them to drink.

• Instead, the Rekabites explain that this would violate their family’s traditions, which prohibit living in houses, farming crops, and drinking wine.

• They have kept these traditions in the hope that they shall remain in the land.

Teacher Commentary

Who Are the Rekabites?

The ancestry of the Rekabites dates back to the Kenites, a nomadic tribe that included Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro. According to 1 Chronicles 2:55, a Kenite named Hammath preceded Jehonadab as a “father of the Rekabites.” Once the Israelites came into the promised land, the Kenites settled “among the inhabitants of the Desert of Judah in the Negev near Arad” (Judg. 1:16), which is near the border of modern-day Jordan.

The Rekabites appear to have retained their nomadic lifestyle. Over the following centuries, they moved throughout the land of inheritance. They were probably in the northern kingdom of Israel at the time they had taken their original vows and may have migrated south toward Judah after the fall of Israel in 722 BC.

5 And I set before the sons of the house of the Rechabites pots full of wine, and cups, and I said unto them, Drink ye wine.

6 But they said, We will drink no wine: for Jonadab the son of Rechab our father commanded us, saying, Ye shall drink no wine, neither ye, nor your sons for ever: 7 Neither shall ye build house, nor sow seed, nor plant vineyard, nor have any: but all your days ye shall dwell in tents; that ye may live many days in the land where ye be strangers.

student commentary

The Rekabite Vows

The setting is the middle of Jeremiah’s prophetic ministry. At least some of the worst outcomes have already begun. But there is yet time to save lives and to make the people understand that turning to God’s mercy is their only hope. The faithless king of Judah, Jehoiakim, has not led the people into sincere repentance. Judah has been forced to submit to the invading powers of Babylon (1 Kings 24:1). Amidst all the coming and going from the city of Jerusalem, God sends Jeremiah to one family: the Rekabites, descendants of their ancestor, Rekab. God has a planned demonstration in mind.

Jeremiah brings the clan into the temple and arranges a test. He sets bowls of wine before the family and tells them to drink (Jer. 35:5). But there is something to know about the Rekabites: unlike most other families of this time, they have certain unique traditions. They do not drink wine, do not farm, and they live in tents (vv. 6–7).

Through his actions, Jeremiah is tempting this group to violate long-held family traditions. Before them is a prophet of God who has invited them to enter the temple and has made an offer of wine (presumably, before observers). But Jeremiah anticipates their response. Jeremiah (more importantly, God) already knows what the Rekabites will do.

The family comes at Jeremiah’s invitation, but they flatly decline to drink any wine set before

Jeremiah 35:5–7

5 Then I set bowls full of wine and some cups before the Rekabites and said to them, “Drink some wine.”

6 But they replied, “We do not drink wine, because our forefather Jehonadab son of Rekab gave us this command: ‘Neither you nor your descendants must ever drink wine. 7 Also you must never build houses, sow seed or plant vineyards; you must never have any of these things, but must always live in tents. Then you will live a long time in the land where you are nomads.’”

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them. They explain their traditions, perhaps thinking this might be a simple misunderstanding: “Our forefather Jehonadab, son of Rekab gave us this command: ‘Neither you nor your descendants must ever drink wine’” (v. 6). The family members have probably kept this vow for more than two centuries, and they are not about to violate it now.

We may wonder why the Rekabites have this tradition in the first place. Unfortunately, the rest of Scripture is mostly silent about them; Jeremiah 35 is the only chapter that describes their history. More than likely, the reason their ancestor had forbidden the drinking of wine or the cultivation of crops was to free his descendants from being settled in one territory. The Rekabites are probably a clan of permanent nomads, expected to live like nomads, and a love for wine would make that lifestyle impossible.

Jehonadab—the ancestor who came up with these traditions—promised his family that, if they keep these traditions, they will “live a long time in the land where [they] are nomads” (v. 7). This promise closely resembles the wording of Israel’s covenant: “Observe therefore all the commands I [God] am giving you . . . so that you may live long in the land” (Deut. 11:8–9). And here is the crux of Jeremiah’s demonstration. Before the observers, Jeremiah highlights a family who upholds their traditions to ensure a righteous outcome.

Discussion Questions and Answers

1 What does Jeremiah the prophet ask the Rekabites to do? Why?

Jeremiah invites the family to come to the temple, where he sets before them bowls of wine and invites them to drink. This is an elaborate setup and test that will make an important demonstration. Jeremiah anticipates that his offer will be rejected.

2 How do the Rekabites respond? Why?

The Rekabites come and patiently explain their traditions before Jeremiah and observers. They have been faithful to what their ancestor asked of them, and they will not make this the day that they drink wine. Keeping their traditions has been part of their identity as nomads, for centuries.

3 What makes the Rekabites want to keep their traditions?

The promise of their ancestor was that these traditions would sustain his clan and would make their way of life possible. The Rekabites remember his promise: they shall retain the ability to live on their land if they abide by the traditions. Thus they avoid farming, drinking wine, and living in houses instead of tents.

Teacher Commentary

Jehonadab

Jehonadab lived in the ninth century BC, during the reign of King Jehu of Israel. Second Kings 10:15–31 tells that Jehonadab meets with Jehu (about 842 BC), and agrees to help Jehu eliminate the house of King Ahab and the Baal worship established by Ahab’s house. Verses 23–28 describe how Jehu and Jehonadab brought all Baal’s servants into the temple of Baal; after making sure “that no one who serves the Lord is here with you—only servants of Baal” (v. 23), Jehu sends his guards and officers in to kill Baal’s servants, then has them destroy the temple of Baal itself. At their first meeting, Jehu recruits Jehonadab because of their mutual “zeal for the Lord” (v. 16). That same zeal remains evident in Jehonadab’s followers more than two hundred years later. The Rekabites’ reputation precedes them by the time they meet Jeremiah in the temple.

Points to Emphasize

Read Jeremiah 35:8–11, and note the following:

• The Rekabites continue to explain that they have come to the city of Jerusalem to seek refuge from the wars and conflicts in the land.

• They have not violated their traditions in any way.

• This demonstration of faithfulness stands in stark contrast to the rest of Judah, who has not obeyed the covenant with God.

Teacher Commentary

Refusing Wine

During the temperance movements of the early twentieth century, the Rekabites’ refusal to drink wine was cited as an example for all believers to follow. Then and now, it is important to recognize and honor their faithfulness without missing the bigger point of obedience to God in all things. The Rekabites’ nomadic lifestyle prohibited them from planting vineyards, and avoiding wine was only one part of their vows.

Still, the Bible prohibits drunkenness and has many examples of its harms (Gen. 9:20–25; 19:30–38; Lev. 10:1–2, 8; Gal. 5:21; Eph. 5:18). Yet Jesus’ first miracle was turning water into wine at the wedding at Cana (John 2:1–11). Thus the apostle Paul’s advice probably sums it up best: “whether you eat or drink . . . do it all for the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31).

Nebuchadnezzar’s Raids of Judah

At the likely time of this passage (605–604 BC), King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon had already begun raiding the regions around Judah, including Syria, Lebanon, and Israel, thus driving the Rekabites from the lands they had previously settled. Second Kings 24:1 also informs us that Nebuchadnezzar had begun raiding the outer regions of the southern kingdom of Judah, and eventually besieged Jerusalem itself: “Jehoiakim became his vassal for three years. But then he turned against Nebuchadnezzar and rebelled [in 601 BC].” Jehoiakim would join forces with the Egyptians and would eventually be removed by Nebuchadnezzar in 598 BC, carried off to Babylon.

Another immediate effect of Nebuchadnezzar’s initial raids was that, in submitting to Babylon, Jehoiakim had sent “some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility” to Babylon—including the prophet Daniel and his friends (Dan. 1:3, 6–7).

Jeremiah 35:8–11

8 Thus have we obeyed the voice of Jonadab the son of Rechab our father in all that he hath charged us, to drink no wine all our days, we, our wives, our sons, nor our daughters; 9 Nor to build houses for us to dwell in: neither have we vineyard, nor field, nor seed: 10 But we have dwelt in tents, and have obeyed, and done according to all that Jonadab our father commanded us. 11 But it came to pass, when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up into the land, that we said, Come, and let us go to Jerusalem for fear of the army of the Chaldeans, and for fear of the army of the Syrians: so we dwell at Jerusalem.

student commentary

Radical Obedience

The Rekabites and their leader, Jaazaniah, continue to explain these vows and their refusal to drink wine. After their forefather forbid them to drink wine, build houses, or farm, they “obeyed everything [he] commanded” (v. 8). Because they all followed these commands to live as nomads, they “have lived in tents and have fully obeyed” (v. 10). Their long-standing zeal toward keeping ancestral traditions overcame any temptation to seek the comfort of permanent homes, much less a temptation to drink the wine Jeremiah has set before them.

The only reason the Rekabites have come to Jerusalem is to find safety from invading armies (v. 11). As a result of their nomadic lifestyle, they were able to flee to the city in a time of crisis. Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, had begun invading the lands of Judah and the eastern Mediterranean. Because of these wars to the north, the Rekabites arrived as refugees to Judah and found safety in the city of Jerusalem (v. 11). Even now, they are not in violation of their vows and traditions. Even now they are still living in tents.

Following the printed text, God tells Jeremiah to speak to the gathered people. Jeremiah recaps the test of the Rekabites and their faithful response (vv. 12–16). Then he brings

Jeremiah 35:8–11

8 We have obeyed everything our forefather Jehonadab son of Rekab commanded us. Neither we nor our wives nor our sons and daughters have ever drunk wine 9 or built houses to live in or had vineyards, fields or crops. 10 We have lived in tents and have fully obeyed everything our forefather Jehonadab commanded us. 11 But when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon invaded this land, we said, ‘Come, we must go to Jerusalem to escape the Babylonian and Aramean armies.’ So we have remained in Jerusalem.”

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the demonstration to a theological point: the Rekabites have done everything their ancestors had asked, have remained faithful, generation after generation. Conversely, during the same time, the people of Judah have proved utterly faithless to the covenant with God. God has sent many prophets (Jeremiah included) to urge Judah to turn from sin and idolatry. “But,” God concludes, “you have not paid attention or listened to me” (v. 15). Thus, the Rekabites are an illustration of the kind of faithfulness that Judah has struggled to display.

Therefore, because of this faithless behavior, God shall bring about “every disaster [God] pronounced against [Judah and Jerusalem]” (v. 17). God has provided ample opportunity to return to covenant obedience, but the door is quickly shutting.

On the other hand, the faithfulness of the Rekabites has not gone unnoticed before God. This opens a path for God to reward them. The point is not that the traditions of the Rekabites should be adopted by the other residents of Judah. But in recognition for their having kept ancestral traditions, God says, “Jehonadab son of Rekab will never fail to have a descendant to serve me” (v. 19). In the midst of a faithless generation, God finds cause to reward a family who chooses a different path.

Discussion Questions and Answers

1 How have the Rekabites demonstrated obedience to their ancestors after relocating to Jerusalem?

Because they were used to a nomadic lifestyle, the Rekabites were able to flee to Jerusalem. Once there, they continued to live in tents within the walls of the city. They are keeping their traditions during a time of uncertainty and when others would have made a change.

2 Why does God want to highlight an example of extravagant faithfulness?

God is not saying that the traditions of this family should be adopted universally. But God is on the hunt for faithfulness, because Judah has proven habitually unfaithful. Through Jeremiah, God demonstrates that people are finding it easier to keep human traditions than to keep the covenant.

3 How does God reward the Rekabites?

God says that there shall always be a descendant of this family in His service. It means that the Rekabites will, at least in part, escape the destruction that is to come. Their family will survive and continue.

One Bible, One Story

Tests from God

There are many other instances in the Bible where God “tests” an individual or group—including cases when He fully anticipates a positive result. Abraham’s near sacrifice of Isaac—when God had already provided the real sacrifice (Gen. 22:8, 13–14)—is probably the best-known example. It allows Abraham to demonstrate obedient faith. Another example appears in Mark 7. As Jesus travels to the region of Tyre, He encounters a Gentile woman who pleads with Him to cast a demon from her daughter. Jesus’ initial response seems unusually blunt, if not rude: “it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs” (v. 27). In response, however, the woman’s words are humble and faith-filled: “Lord . . . even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs” (v. 28). Jesus immediately tells the woman that her daughter has been healed as a result of her faith (vv. 29–30). Like the test of Jeremiah 35, Jesus allows her to demonstrate her faith, which serves as an example to the observers—and to us.

3 Apply the Message

Traditions are one way that we demonstrate faithfulness.

This devotion and conclusion encourages each of us to pursue faithfulness to those things that God requires. Like the Rekabite family, we can demonstrate what it means to be faithful.

Discussion Questions and Answers

1 What is an example of something you always want to finish?

Almost everyone is devoted to finishing certain types of things. Maybe we are great at finishing our projects, our responsibilities at work, or even our taxes. If we look at what we are good at finishing, it might reveal something about our priorities. For instance, perhaps we are careful not to embarrass ourselves before colleagues at work by leaving work undone.

2 How can our faithfulness in other areas of life be an example of faithfulness before God? Depending on where we find faithfulness easy or convenient, it can spur us to consider the same attitude toward our spiritual obligations. Perhaps we need to take more care to follow God’s instructions, or perhaps we need to invite the right mentors to help us find a path forward.

3 What does it look like to obey God and to finish well?

There are many examples of individuals who have left a legacy that persists: spiritual leaders who bring people to Christ, great minds who inquire after God, devoted missionaries who spend a lifetime in service, and more. Use this opportunity to praise and to speak well of any pillars of your faith community, those showing you the way.

Adult Resources Handout Tradition and Truth

This handout invites us to evaluate holiday traditions against the truths we find in Scripture. It gives instructions for an additional activity: a group discussion of instructions from God.

student conclusion

The Art of Finishing Well

“We have to finish this game!”

When those words came from my son’s mouth, I knew he was right. I had always been a lover of boardgames, but this was the moment I knew he loved them too. We were seated on the carpet of our living room, cards and pieces scattered in every direction. The game had gone on so long that I was willing to pack it away. But one look at his face made me certain I didn’t want to disappoint him.

“You’re right. We finish things, don’t we?”

With perfect comedic timing, my wife leaned into the room while holding a laundry basket. She said, “You finish the things you want to finish!”

It became a family joke that turned into a larger conversation. Each of us was able to think of projects and tasks that went unfinished: clothes tossed to the floor, a recycling bin that overflowed, schoolwork marked “Incomplete.” Thus, a new family motto was born: In this family, we finish things.

In the days of Jeremiah, God was seeking faithfulness, or what we might call the skill of finishing well. But the people of Judah were rebellious and uncommitted. Soon their lack of fortitude would reach its natural conclusion: God would send them into exile.

We can be grateful that God notices and rewards individual faithfulness. More than that, God is devoted to His plans and promises. If faithfulness is the art of finishing well, God is the master. He always brings His plans to fruition. In the person of Jesus, God has been faithful beyond the wildest imagination of human beings. We should be faithful because God is faithful.

Reminding the World of God’s Faithfulness

As we have studied the traditions of one ancient family, perhaps you have noticed ways that your own family traditions could point others to God. Since we serve a God who is faithful, we can look for ways to exemplify faithfulness ourselves.

With a partner, discuss a family tradition that this lesson has encouraged you to start or continue. How do you hope that your family traditions can point others to God?

4 Live It Out

Be intentional about the good that can come from your traditions.

This lesson and the discussion of family traditions can prompt several responses. Perhaps some of your group will be proud to share about their family’s existing traditions, but others will want to use this opportunity to plan a new beginning. While there can be great joy in following traditions, we should ask ourselves whether we are using every opportunity to point the world to our heavenly Father.

Father in heaven, You are faithful; we struggle to be faithful. We confess that we may sometimes take ourselves and our traditions more seriously than our obedience to Your ways. Please help us to send the right message in all we do. Challenge us to finish well, in whatever lies before us. We are grateful for Your gift of redemption and that You continue to shape us into Jesus’ image. We pray in His name. Amen.

Key Text

For unto this day they drink none, but obey their father’s commandment:

—Jeremiah 35:14b KJV

To this day they do not drink wine, because they obey their forefather’s command.

—Jeremiah 35:14b NIV

Quiet Hour® Daily Bible Readings

Week of October 20 through October 25

Mon. Joel 2:28–32—A New Salvation. Tue. Ezekiel 36:25–35—A New Heart.

Wed. Deuteronomy 10:12–21—The Law’s Essence.

Thu. 2 Corinthians 3:1–6—A New Covenant.

Fri. 2 Corinthians 3:7–11—A New Spirit. Sat. Jeremiah 31:27–34—A New Relationship with God.

Next Week: Jeremiah 31:29–34; John 1:17

Next week we will be looking at God’s promise to make His people faithful and to give a new covenant. What is an item in your life that you’ve updated recently?

As students are leaving, hand out copies of this week’s Power for Living®

Daily Devotions with Deep Truth for a Bold Faith

With devotions that follow your Bible-in-Life weekly study plan, Quiet Hour provides students focused direction for daily reflection. Correlated to each Bible lesson, the daily reading includes the Home Daily Reading Plan, explores how a fellow believer has applied its theme to their life, and ends with a prayer or devotion.

Encourage your class with Quiet Hour

Available from David C Cook or your Christian retailer

Embracing God’s Longing and Our Spiritual Thirst in Prayer

Author Strahan Coleman offers readers guidance on how to have a transformative relationship with God. In Beholding, Coleman redefines prayer as a way of being with God, emphasizing its role in deepening our connection and enriching our spiritual lives. Thirsting explores our deep yearning for God, guiding us to embrace this spiritual thirst and experience a profound, intimate communion with God.

Available from David C Cook and everywhere books are sold

BIBLE IN LIFE

ADULT RESOURCES

FALL 2025

JUDAH, FROM ISAIAH TO EXILE

BIBLE IN LIFE R

ADULT RESOURCES

Lesson Resource

1-7 Poster and Reproducible Sheet—“Living Parables: The Life of Prophets” 1 Reproducible Sheet—“God Calls Each of Us.” 2 Reproducible Sheet—“A Time for Community” 2-3 Poster—“Thy word” (Ps. 119:105) 3 Reproducible Sheet—“Finding Real Treasure”

Sheet—“God’s Mirror, My Mirror”

Sheet—“Tradition and Truth”

Sheet—“Prayer as Covenant” 8-13

and Reproducible Sheet—“Leaves for Healing”

Sheet—“Our Rescuer”

Sheet—“Praying for Leaders”

ADULT RESOURCES HANDOUT October 19

TRADITION AND TRUTH

Read the family activities in the tic-tac-toe grid. If the activity is a family tradition, draw an “x” over it. If the activity aligns to a particular biblical truth, draw an “o” over it. If both apply, draw a “star” over it. If you compare with a neighbor, you might find that you each have different ways of thinking about these.

Family meals

Family shopping for Christmas tree

Family reading the Bible

Family thanking God before eating

Family sharing Jesus with neighbors

Family Christmas gift exchange

Family worships together

Family vacations

Family cooking grandma’s favorite cookies

How do these and other kinds of family traditions connect us to God?

Additional Activity: Group Discussion of Following God’s Ways

Separate into groups of 2–3 people. Each person should come up with an instruction from God, something that could be overlooked or missed. This could be specific, like praying for missionaries, or more general, like practicing gentleness. Feel free to discuss why this instruction can or has been historically overlooked, and talk about plans to fulfill this obligation. Once every group member has shared, discuss the possible consequences of ignoring commands from God. End by sharing with the larger group some of your ideas.

BIBLE IN LIFE

ADULT STUDENT GUIDE

FALL 2025

JUDAH, FROM ISAIAH TO EXILE

BIBLE IN LIFE

ADULT STUDENT GUIDE

FALL 2025

Adult Student Guide is published quarterly by David C Cook, DavidCCook.org. © 2025 by David C Cook, 4050 Lee Vance Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, U.S.A. Bible-in-Life® and David C Cook and its related logo are registered trademarks of David C Cook. All rights reserved. ISBN 978-0-781-44767-6. Large Print ISBN 978-0-781-44606-8. Printed in South Korea. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the King James Version. Lessons and/or Readings are based on the Uniform Series International Sunday School Lessons International Bible Lessons for Christian Teaching copyright © 2022 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Digital products are subject to the End User License Agreement (EULA) found at DavidCCook.org/ EULA/ and any additional terms or restrictions that may accompany the product. Digital products cannot be returned, sold, or relicensed. This product license is good for 6 months. After 6 months, you must purchase another license. LEGO® is a trademark of the LEGO Group of companies. All rights reserved worldwide.

David C Cook would like to thank the following lesson contributors: Madison Cannon, Joel Clarkson, Lee D. Hoffer, Patricia Merritt, Tanae Murdic, Maralee Parker, Michael Rade, Ryan Rice Sr., Chad Ryan, Carl Simmons, Charlotte Snyder, Denise Snyder, Justine Tegen, Faith Waters, Randy E. Williams, Roslyn Yilpet

Editors Designer Production

Jason Hitchcock

Trinity Richards

Dale Johnson

Sean McCoy

Vol. 141, No. 1

Lessons for Fall 2025: Judah, From Isaiah to Exile

Unit 1: Isaiah and the Renewal of the Temple

Unit 2: Jeremiah and the Promise of Renewal

Unit 3: Ezekiel and the Exile of Judah

WHAT’S AHEAD

QUARTERLY PREVIEW

In this quarter, here are some of the biblical principles that we will study and apply to situations in our lives:

God makes people His messengers. (Lesson 1)

God invites us to return to Him. (Lesson 2)

God uses Scripture to reform us. (Lesson 3)

God’s servant will face rejection and hostility. (Lesson 4)

God’s messengers might seem young and inexperienced. (Lesson 5)

God wants mercy even more than religious devotion. (Lesson 6)

Be faithful to God’s ways, even more than human traditions. (Lesson 7)

We need God to make us faithful. (Lesson 8)

God can rescue those who do the right thing. (Lesson 9)

Expect human leaders to disappoint you. (Lesson 10)

In our grief we need God. (Lesson 11)

God warns that wickedness leads to ruin. (Lesson 12)

God’s redemptive plan is firm and unshakable. (Lesson 13)

JEREMIAH’S CALL AND ARREST

When Allen was still in seminary, he heard from an inner-city church with a struggling set of circumstances. They hoped to keep the doors open and heat their building on frosty winter mornings, and they asked someone young and inexperienced to be their pastor. Instead of a salary, the church provided an apartment on the same block. He had an unusual energy, a strong vision, and a childlike confidence in God’s ability to do big things. And God was faithful to him, strengthening him for the work. Allen didn’t have the kind of wisdom that comes only with experience, of course. But the Lord “took up the slack” as he kept moving forward in faith.

The Bible tells of many people called to proclaim God’s message. But some, like Jeremiah, initially protest: “I’m just not enough.” Many of his friends would likely agree! But when God opens a door, faith is required, more than a lifetime of experience.

To this day, I marvel at the faith-filled young people who’ve said “yes” to God’s call. When their hearts are open, they find the Lord’s grace sufficient for every challenge. I’ve learned to stay alert, for a good lesson can come to me through those who are young. Case in point: one twenty-something told me, “Whenever I have a question about what to do, I ask myself, Is this a way of living with honor?” That question stuck with me. A simple, important message from a youthful messenger.

1 When have you been surprised by a young person’s message?

2 Have you ever felt too inexperienced to say “yes” to a job?

3 Where do you see leadership emerging from those around you?

Jeremiah

6 Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child.

7 But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. 8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord.

9 Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the Lord said unto me, Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth. 10 See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.

God Appoints Jeremiah

6 “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”

7 But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.

9 Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “I have put my words in your mouth.

10 See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”

The book of Jeremiah begins with some dates. It is the thirteenth year of King Josiah’s reign over Judah (Jer. 1:2). Jeremiah is the son of a priest, leaders who are supposed to be guiding God’s people to seek holiness and to protect the purity of the temple. Later we read that the priests have utterly failed in this role.

Verse 5 contains the words of God’s call to Jeremiah: “Before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” But God’s selection of Jeremiah comes as a surprise. Instead of welcoming this message, he gives two reasons that he cannot do what is being asked (v. 6).

First, Jeremiah says he does not know how to speak. This does not mean he has a physical impairment or anything that hinders. What he means is that he lacks the eloquence and skill for such a public role of communication. Second, he calls himself a mere “child” before the Lord (v. 6 KJV). In Hebrew, the term “child” is broad enough to include various stages of youth. It is used for infants (1 Sam. 4:21), young boys (1 Sam. 2:11), even teenagers and young men (Gen. 21:1;

2 Sam 18:5). Jeremiah’s concern is that he is too young and inexperienced to speak on the Lord’s behalf.

But God does not accept these excuses (v. 7). Jeremiah only needs to focus on going to whomever the Lord sends him, saying whatever the Lord tells him. God will choose Jeremiah’s message and audience, not Jeremiah. What matters are not the qualifications of Jeremiah but his God-appointed task. When God chooses Jeremiah, He asks Jeremiah to trust that he shall be provided with what he needs.

In verse 8, the Lord commands Jeremiah not to “be afraid” of the people to whom he will be sent. God will be with him and protect him. During Jeremiah’s ministry, many will fiercely oppose and persecute him. His enemies will attack him, but God will be on his side. Jeremiah receives further reassurance of God’s presence in verse 9. The Lord touches Jeremiah’s mouth to show that He has placed the correct words for Jeremiah to say. These will not be human ideas; they will be from God. Jeremiah becomes a mouthpiece of God, like Isaiah before him (compare Isa. 6:6–7).

Verse 10 reveals the prophetic assignment: God gives Jeremiah authority to announce messages of judgment and deliverance. He will proclaim judgment against kings and nations, as a consequence of their disobedience. And he will announce God’s plans for future restoration, instilling hope in God’s redemption.

God describes Jeremiah’s ministry using two types of metaphors: agricultural (uproot, plant) and architectural (tear down, destroy, overthrow, build). Of the six verbs, four highlight the destructive aspects of judgment, while only two focus on future reconstruction. These reflect Jeremiah’s difficult ministry context: in the face of great disobedience, he will have a harsh message for his generation. Nevertheless, he also points to the hope of future blessing, for those who serve God with faithfulness.

1 For what reasons does Jeremiah object to God’s appointment?

2 What is God’s response?

3 What will be the ministry task for Jeremiah? What must he do?

Jer. 26:8–9, 12–15

8 Now it came to pass, when Jeremiah had made an end of speaking all that the Lord had commanded him to speak unto all the people, that the priests and the prophets and all the people took him, saying, Thou shalt surely die. 9 Why hast thou prophesied in the name of the Lord, saying, This house shall be like Shiloh, and this city shall be desolate without an inhabitant? And all the people were gathered against Jeremiah in the house of the Lord.

12 Then spake Jeremiah unto all the princes and to all the people, saying, The Lord sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that ye have heard. 13 Therefore now amend your ways and your doings, and obey the voice of the Lord your God; and the Lord will repent him of the evil that he hath pronounced against you. 14 As for me, behold, I am in your hand: do with me as seemeth good and meet unto you. 15 But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof: for of a truth the Lord hath sent me unto you to speak all these words in your ears.

Jeremiah on Trial

26:8–9, 12–15

8 But as soon as Jeremiah finished telling all the people everything the Lord had commanded him to say, the priests, the prophets and all the people seized him and said, “You must die! 9 Why do you prophesy in the Lord’s name that this house will be like Shiloh and this city will be desolate and deserted?” And all the people crowded around Jeremiah in the house of the Lord.

12 Then Jeremiah said to all the officials and all the people: “The Lord sent me to prophesy against this house and this city all the things you have heard. 13 Now reform your ways and your actions and obey the Lord your God. Then the Lord will relent and not bring the disaster he has pronounced against you. 14 As for me, I am in your hands; do with me whatever you think is good and right. 15 Be assured, however, that if you put me to death, you will bring the guilt of innocent blood on yourselves and on this city and on those who live in it, for in truth the Lord has sent me to you to speak all these words in your hearing.”

We transition many chapters ahead, and in obedience to the Lord, Jeremiah warns the people to turn from their evil ways, or else the Lord will bring destruction upon the temple and the city of Jerusalem (Jer. 26:1–7). He is delivering the message exactly as God has commanded, but when he finishes, the temple priests, other

prophets, and everyone else feels outraged. They seize him, shouting that he must die. They react with hostility because they believe Jeremiah is falsely claiming the Lord’s authority. Their question in verse 9 is rhetorical, meant to accuse, rather than understand. They are scandalized, thinking Why would God predict or threaten the destruction of His own temple?

The people are under the false impression that God’s presence and supernatural defense of the temple will ensure their safety (see Jer. 7:4, 10–14). They cannot accept that God would threaten to destroy the temple, so they believe Jeremiah deserves death as a false prophet (see Deut. 18:20).

The people set up a trial at one of the temple gates to bring their charges against Jeremiah (Jer. 26:10–11). In verse 12, Jeremiah gives his defense before all the people. He states that God Himself sent Jeremiah to prophesy against the temple and the city. Because God is the source of this message, not Jeremiah, the people’s contention is with God, and Jeremiah is not a false prophet. Thus, even when threatened with death, Jeremiah does not change his message. Instead, he calls the people to repentance (v. 13). He urges them to change their way of life and do what is right. If they obey the Lord, He will relent and not bring judgment upon them. There is still an opportunity for them to repent.

Jeremiah puts himself at the mercy of the people (vv. 14–15). Courageously, he does not plead for his life. He is more concerned with faithfully delivering God’s message than ensuring his personal safety. He warns the people that, if they execute him, they will be executing an innocent man. Such a murder would bring added guilt upon themselves and their city. He ends by emphasizing that this message is from the Lord, and it is the truth.

1 What are the people’s accusations against Jeremiah?

2 How does Jeremiah respond in defense?

Finding the Right Words

I have always identified with Moses and Jeremiah, both of whom seem to fear public speaking. I am not confident. I tell people (sometimes, God) that I am not good enough, not eloquent enough. Give me a computer keyboard and I can communicate. But a microphone? Not so much.

Today’s Scripture reminds me of when I was asked to give my testimony to a church youth group when I was about fifteen. My peers were in that group! I was very nervous, but I also felt that God had given me an opportunity to encourage others to go public with their faith. I read Mark 13:11, which was near my thoughts: “Do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.” I repeated and memorized that verse to cover my anxiety as the date approached, and God was faithful. He gave me words to say, and I was shocked by the response.

Thus, I can understand Jeremiah’s reluctance to be a spokesperson for God. Not only was he hesitant about the message (which gets him into hot water), but he tries to remind God of his youth and inexperience. He fears that no one will listen. But when God corrects him, “Do not say, ‘I am too young,’” Jeremiah wisely drops the excuses (Jer. 1:7).

Jeremiah was thinking about Jeremiah. But God was thinking about His plan to use Jeremiah to be His prophet. Jeremiah would be the messenger, and God would take care of the rest.

If God is nudging you toward doing something you’re avoiding out of fear, perhaps you should reconsider. Maybe God has recruited you as a spokesperson to share the gospel, or just to encourage someone. He is faithful and can supply your needs. Do you trust that truth?

1 Why might God choose young people to accomplish His will?

2 When have you received encouragement to step forward to do a hard thing?

3 What are ways we can overcome fear?

Overcoming Fear

Jeremiah is accused of speaking falsely, even after God designates him a prophet. But God would be able to protect him and to give him the words to speak, even if he is not confident of his own abilities. By looking to God instead of his own abilities, Jeremiah acts in obedience to his mission.

Can you identify one specific context where you could be taking a more active role in ministry? Write a prayer that asks God for strength to face this challenge.

Key Text

But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. —Jeremiah 1:7 KJV

But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.” —Jeremiah 1:7 NIV

Quiet Hour® Daily Bible Readings

Week of October 6 through October 11

Mon. Mark 13:1–13—Endure to the End.

Tue. Mark 13:14–27—God Will Protect God’s People.

Wed. 1 Samuel 15:20–26—To Obey Is Better than Sacrifice.

Thu. John 14:12–17—Keep Christ’s Commandment.

Fri. John 2:12–22—An Indestructible Temple.

Sat. Psalm 51:15–19—The Sacrifice that Pleases God.

Next Week: Jeremiah 7:1–11, 21–23

We will talk more about Jeremiah’s message and the compassion God shows for vulnerable people. Is your attention drawn to any group of vulnerable people this week?

Embracing God’s Longing and Our Spiritual Thirst in Prayer

Available from David C Cook and everywhere books are sold

BIBLE IN LIFE

ADULT STUDENT GUIDE (LARGE PRINT)

FALL 2025

JUDAH, FROM ISAIAH TO EXILE

BIBLE IN LIFE

ADULT STUDENT GUIDE

FALL 2025

Adult Student Guide is published quarterly by David C Cook, DavidCCook.org. © 2025 by David C Cook, 4050 Lee Vance Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, U.S.A. Bible-in-Life® and David C Cook and its related logo are registered trademarks of David C Cook. All rights reserved. ISBN 978-0-781-44767-6. Large Print ISBN 978-0-781-44606-8. Printed in South Korea. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the King James Version. Lessons and/or Readings are based on the Uniform Series International Sunday School Lessons International Bible Lessons for Christian Teaching copyright © 2022 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Digital products are subject to the End User License Agreement (EULA) found at DavidCCook.org/EULA/ and any additional terms or restrictions that may accompany the product. Digital products cannot be returned, sold, or relicensed. This product license is good for 6 months. After 6 months, you must purchase another license. LEGO® is a trademark of the LEGO Group of companies. All rights reserved worldwide.

Editors Designer Production

Jason Hitchcock

Trinity Richards

Dale Johnson

Sean McCoy

Vol. 141, No. 1

Lessons for Fall 2025: Judah, From Isaiah to Exile

Unit 1: Isaiah and the Renewal of the Temple

Lesson 1 Sept 7

Isaiah’s Call and Ministry 3

Isaiah 6:1–8; 38:1–5

Lesson 2 Sept 14 Hezekiah’s Passover 10

2 Chronicles 30:1–9, 26–27

Lesson 3 Sept 21 Hilkiah’s Discovery 17

2 Chronicles 34:15–22, 26–27

Lesson 4 Sept 28 The Servant’s Suﬀering 24

Isaiah 53:1–7

Unit 2: Jeremiah and the Promise of Renewal

Lesson 5 Oct 5

Lesson 6 Oct 12

Jeremiah’s Call and Arrest 31

Jeremiah 1:6–10; 26:8–9, 12–15

Jeremiah’s Message 38

Jeremiah 7:1–11, 21–23

Lesson 7 Oct 19 A Family’s Example 45

Jeremiah 35:5–11

Lesson 8 Oct 26 Changes Promised 52

Lesson 9 Nov 2

Jeremiah 31:29–34; John 1:17

Jeremiah’s Rescue 59

Jeremiah 38:7–13

Unit 3: Ezekiel and the Exile of Judah

Lesson 10 Nov 9

Jerusalem’s Fall 66

2 Kings 24:18–25:9

Lesson 11 Nov 16 Ezekiel’s Sign 73

Ezekiel 3:10–11; 24:15–24, 27

Lesson 12 Nov 23 Ezekiel’s Responsibility 80

Ezekiel 33:7–16a

Lesson 13 Nov 30 Ezekiel’s Vision 87

Ezekiel 47:1–9, 12

WHAT’S AHEAD

QUARTERLY PREVIEW

God guided the people of Judah, and the same God helps and guides us today. The time of the prophets reminds us of our own context: people distracted, chasing a er idols, and forge ing what God had done. Over the next few months, we will read about God’s way of reminding His people of His love and purpose, o en through the sending of prophets. As we approach these stories, we ﬁnd that they teach us about ourselves and our relationship with God.

In this quarter, here are some of the biblical principles that we will study and apply to situations in our lives:

God makes people His messengers. (Lesson 1)

God invites us to return to Him. (Lesson 2)

God uses Scripture to reform us. (Lesson 3)

God’s servant will face rejection and hostility. (Lesson 4)

God’s messengers might seem young and inexperienced. (Lesson 5)

God wants mercy even more than religious devotion. (Lesson 6)

Be faithful to God’s ways, even more than human traditions. (Lesson 7)

We need God to make us faithful. (Lesson 8)

God can rescue those who do the right thing. (Lesson 9)

Expect human leaders to disappoint you. (Lesson 10)

In our grief we need God. (Lesson 11)

God warns that wickedness leads to ruin. (Lesson 12)

God’s redemptive plan is ﬁrm and unshakable. (Lesson 13)

A FAMILY’S EXAMPLE

When I was young, my immediate family and all my relatives would celebrate Christmas at my mom’s home in Florida. There would be nearly thirty aunts and uncles, siblings, kids, and grandkids squished together for the holiday. Then, on Christmas morning, we’d gather around the tree to open gi s one at a time—always starting with the eldest person, out of respect. We’d go in order of age until we reached the youngest. Even all these years later, the tradition stands. It looks different, with different family members and in a different home.

1 What is one of your favorite family traditions?

2 What value did that tradition teach you?

3 What kind of good tradition do you want to start with your friends and family?

5 And I set before the sons of the house of the Rechabites pots full of wine, and cups, and I said unto them, Drink ye wine.

The Rekabite Vows

The se ing is the middle of Jeremiah’s prophetic ministry. At least some of the worst outcomes have already begun. But there is yet time to save lives and to make the people understand that turning to God’s mercy is their only hope. The faithless king of Judah, Jehoiakim, has not led the people into sincere repentance. Judah has been forced to submit to the invading powers of Babylon (1 Kings 24:1). Amidst all the coming and going from the city of Jerusalem, God sends Jeremiah to one family: the Rekabites, descendants of their ancestor, Rekab. God has a planned demonstration in mind. Jeremiah brings the clan into the temple and arranges a test. He sets bowls of wine before the family and tells them to drink (Jer. 35:5). But there is something to know about the Rekabites: unlike most other families of this time, they have certain unique traditions. They do not drink wine, do not farm, and they live in tents (vv. 6–7). Through his actions, Jeremiah is tempting this group to violate longheld family traditions. Before them is a prophet of God who has invited them to enter the temple and has made an oﬀer of wine (presumably, before observers). But Jeremiah anticipates their response. Jeremiah (more importantly, God) already knows what the Rekabites will do. Jeremiah 35:5–7

5 Then I set bowls full of wine and some cups before the Rekabites and said to them, “Drink some wine.”

The family comes at Jeremiah’s invitation, but they ﬂatly decline to drink any wine set before them. They explain their traditions, perhaps thinking this might be a simple misunderstanding: “Our forefather Jehonadab, son of Rekab gave us this command: ‘Neither you nor your descendants must ever drink wine’” (v. 6). The family members have probably kept this vow for more than two centuries, and they are not about to violate it now.

We may wonder why the Rekabites have this tradition in the ﬁrst place. Unfortunately, the rest of Scripture is mostly silent about them; Jeremiah 35 is the only chapter that describes their history. More than likely, the reason their ancestor had forbidden the drinking of wine or the cultivation of crops was to free his descendants from being se led in one territory. The Rekabites are probably a clan of permanent nomads, expected to live like nomads, and a love for wine would make that lifestyle impossible.

Jehonadab—the ancestor who came up with these traditions— promised his family that, if they keep these traditions, they will “live a long time in the land where [they] are nomads” (v. 7). This promise closely resembles the wording of Israel’s covenant: “Observe therefore all the commands I [God] am giving you . . . so that you may live long in the land” (Deut. 11:8–9). And here is the crux of Jeremiah’s demonstration. Before the observers, Jeremiah highlights a family who upholds their traditions to ensure a righteous outcome.

1 What does Jeremiah the prophet ask the Rekabites to do? Why?

2 How do the Rekabites respond? Why?

3 What makes the Rekabites want to keep their traditions?

8 Thus have we obeyed the voice of Jonadab the son of Rechab our father in all that he hath charged us, to drink no wine all our days, we, our wives, our sons, nor our daughters; 9 Nor to build houses for us to dwell in: neither have we vineyard, nor ﬁeld, nor seed: 10 But we have dwelt in tents, and have obeyed, and done according to all that Jonadab our father commanded us. 11 But it came to pass, when Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon came up into the land, that we said, Come, and let us go to Jerusalem for fear of the army of the Chaldeans, and for fear of the army of the Syrians: so we dwell at Jerusalem.

Radical Obedience

8 We have obeyed everything our forefather Jehonadab son of Rekab commanded us. Neither we nor our wives nor our sons and daughters have ever drunk wine 9 or built houses to live in or had vineyards, ﬁelds or crops. 10 We have lived in tents and have fully obeyed everything our forefather Jehonadab commanded us. 11 But when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon invaded this land, we said, ‘Come, we must go to Jerusalem to escape the Babylonian and Aramean armies.’ So we have remained in Jerusalem.”

The Rekabites and their leader, Jaazaniah, continue to explain these vows and their refusal to drink wine. A er their forefather forbid them to drink wine, build houses, or farm, they “obeyed everything [he] commanded” (v. 8). Because they all followed these commands to live as nomads, they “have lived in tents and have fully obeyed” (v. 10). Their long-standing zeal toward keeping ancestral traditions overcame any temptation to seek the comfort of permanent homes, much less a temptation to drink the wine Jeremiah has set before them.

The only reason the Rekabites have come to Jerusalem is to ﬁnd safety from invading armies (v. 11). As a result of their nomadic lifestyle, they were able to ﬂee to the city in a time of crisis. Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, had begun invading the lands of Judah and the eastern Mediterranean. Because of these wars to the north, the Rekabites arrived as refugees to Judah and found safety in the city of Jerusalem (v. 11). Even now, they are not in violation of their vows and traditions. Even now they are still living in tents. Following the printed text, God tells Jeremiah to speak to the

gathered people. Jeremiah recaps the test of the Rekabites and their faithful response (vv. 12–16). Then he brings the demonstration to a theological point: the Rekabites have done everything their ancestors had asked, have remained faithful, generation a er generation. Conversely, during the same time, the people of Judah have proved u erly faithless to the covenant with God. God has sent many prophets (Jeremiah included) to urge Judah to turn from sin and idolatry. “But,” God concludes, “you have not paid a ention or listened to me” (v. 15). Thus, the Rekabites are an illustration of the kind of faithfulness that Judah has struggled to display.

On the other hand, the faithfulness of the Rekabites has not gone unnoticed before God. This opens a path for God to reward them. The point is not that the traditions of the Rekabites should be adopted by the other residents of Judah. But in recognition for their having kept ancestral traditions, God says, “Jehonadab son of Rekab will never fail to have a descendant to serve me” (v. 19). In the midst of a faithless generation, God ﬁnds cause to reward a family who chooses a diﬀerent path.

1 How have the Rekabites demonstrated obedience to their ancestors a er relocating to Jerusalem?

2 Why does God want to highlight an example of extravagant faithfulness?

3 How does God reward the Rekabites?

The Art of Finishing Well

“We have to ﬁnish this game!”

When those words came from my son’s mouth, I knew he was right. I had always been a lover of boardgames, but this was the moment I knew he loved them too. We were seated on the carpet of our living room, cards and pieces sca ered in every direction. The game had gone on so long that I was willing to pack it away. But one look at his face made me certain I didn’t want to disappoint him.

“You’re right. We ﬁnish things, don’t we?”

With perfect comedic timing, my wife leaned into the room while holding a laundry basket. She said, “You ﬁnish the things you want to ﬁnish!”

It became a family joke that turned into a larger conversation. Each of us was able to think of projects and tasks that went unfinished: clothes tossed to the floor, a recycling bin that overflowed, schoolwork marked “Incomplete.” Thus, a new family mo o was born: In this family, we finish things.

In the days of Jeremiah, God was seeking faithfulness, or what we might call the skill of ﬁnishing well. But the people of Judah were rebellious and uncommi ed. Soon their lack of fortitude would reach its natural conclusion: God would send them into exile.

We can be grateful that God notices and rewards individual faithfulness. More than that, God is devoted to His plans and promises. If faithfulness is the art of ﬁnishing well, God is the master. He always brings His plans to fruition. In the person of Jesus, God has been faithful beyond the wildest imagination of human beings. We should be faithful because God is faithful.

1 What is an example of something you always want to ﬁnish?

2 How can our faithfulness in other areas of life be an example of faithfulness before God?

3 What does it look like to obey God and to ﬁnish well?

Reminding the World of God’s Faithfulness

With a partner, discuss a family tradition that this lesson has encouraged you to start or continue. How do you hope that your family traditions can point others to God?

Key Text

For unto this day they drink none, but obey their father’s commandment: —Jeremiah 35:14b KJV

To this day they do not drink wine, because they obey their forefather’s command. —Jeremiah 35:14b NIV

Quiet Hour® Daily Bible Readings

Week of October 20 through October 25

Mon. Joel 2:28–32—A New Salvation.

Tue. Ezekiel 36:25–35—A New Heart.

Wed. Deuteronomy 10:12–21—The Law’s Essence.

Thu. 2 Corinthians 3:1–6—A New Covenant.

Fri. 2 Corinthians 3:7–11—A New Spirit.

Sat. Jeremiah 31:27–34—A New Relationship with God.

Next Week: Jeremiah 31:29–34; John 1:17

Next week we will be looking at God’s promise to make His people faithful and to give a new covenant. What is an item in your life that you’ve updated recently?

Embracing God’s Longing and Our Spiritual Thirst in Prayer

Available from David C Cook and everywhere books are sold

A Table in the Wilderness

Claiming Your Place at the Table

ADAPTED FROM A TABLE IN THE WILDERNESS

BY LINA ABUJAMRA

What does it mean that God is good? MerriamWebster’s Dictionary describes goodness as “the quality or state of being good.” Easton’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary says that God’s goodness is “a perfection of his character which he exercises toward his creatures according to their various circumstances and relations.”

In other words, God’s goodness is His benevolence toward you and me. God is good because He loves us and wants what’s best for us. One of the most important lessons I’m learning is that what God knows is best for us

isn’t always what we think is best for us. That’s where many of us get stuck in the Christian life.

But think about this: one of the most amazing ways God revealed His goodness to us is through food. Who knew, right? It might sound hard to believe, yet from the very first pages of Genesis, we learn that God created food for humans to enjoy and to be filled with. Throughout Scripture, we continue to see God setting up a table so His people may be filled.

I don’t know about you, but I think it’s fascinating that only humans eat at a table. While that might seem obvious, I find it riveting. I believe

it’s intentional and symbolic of the deeper meaning of food. The table is where people gather to do more than just eat. We laugh together at the table. Sometimes we cry, and other times we sit silently, reassuring each other that our present problems are not the end of our story. And yes, through it all, we eat together too. The table is a place to connect. It’s the place many of us feel most alive.

It’s no wonder, then, that God has a way of showing up at tables. In both the Old Testament and the New Testament, stories of God at tables are woven into the narrative of Scripture. In fact, some of the most critical aspects of the spiritual life take place at tables: Passover and Communion.

Here’s what N. T. Wright has written about tables: “When Jesus himself wanted to explain to his disciples what his forthcoming death was all about, he didn’t give them a theory, he gave them a meal.”3

Sharing a table nourishes us both physically and spiritually. When you think about it, food must be one of God’s love languages. That He created us to experience the delight of taste is an expression of His love. If the fact that He regularly invites His people to the table to lavish them with delight isn’t a sign of His goodness, then I’m not sure what is!

In my six week Bible study, Table in the Wildnerness, I examine five of the tables God invites us to throughout His Word:

1. The table of salvation (which we find in the story of the Passover as the table God uses to deliver His people from slavery)

2. The table of unexpected belonging where we feast on God’s goodness in places we expect it the least (which we find in the story of Mephibosheth being invited to King David’s table)

3. The table of overflowing satisfaction at which Jesus shows us how abundant and extravagant His goodness truly is (which we find in the story of the wedding in Cana)

4. The table of remembrance where we feast on God’s goodness in seasons and places in which we might otherwise forget (which we find in the celebration of the Lord’s Supper)

5. The table set with the feast of eternal celebration, the marriage supper of the Lamb, where we will discover God’s plan to feed us with His goodness eternally

The First Table: The Table of Salvation Are you in need of rescue?

If so, God is inviting you to the first of His tables: the table of salvation. I was invited to speak to a group of singles in Colorado in the middle of ski season some time ago. I was looking forward to the event and had finally made my way to the lodge when I decided to make a quick run to the store for some necessities. Being from Green Bay, Wisconsin, I considered myself an expert at driving in the snow and didn’t think twice about the winter weather when I took off in the rented vehicle.

I was about a mile away from the lodge when the most unexpected

thing happened to me: I got stuck in a snowbank. I tried to get myself out of my mess but couldn’t. The harder I tried, the more stuck I got. I looked for my phone to call for help when I, again unexpectedly, noticed that I had not brought my phone with me on this quick trip to the store. I was in

having gotten stuck in the snowbank in the first place. Needless to say, I had a good story to tell that night at my speaking event.

The thing about life is that most of us don’t realize we’re stuck until it’s too late to notice that we have no way out of the mess. Whether it’s a

The thing about life is that most of us don’t realize we’re stuck until it’s too late to notice that we have no way out of the mess.

trouble. The event would be starting in a couple of hours, and all I had was the hope that someone might come driving by and help me out.

The longer I waited, the more it dawned on me that I was on a fairly remote road without much traffic. I thought about walking back to the lodge, but the very idea was daunting. I was too far away from the lodge to walk, and it was too cold outside to risk it anyway.

So I prayed. I cried out to God with increasing desperation. What other options did I have out there in the snowy wilderness? I pictured every worst-case scenario. I hoped that eventually the folks at the conference might notice my absence from the evening session and send out a search party for me. I prayed I wouldn’t freeze before they showed up.

I’ll spare you the drama and tell you that, eventually, someone did show up. Luckily, that person had a phone, and it was only a matter of time before I moved past the fear of dying to the embarrassment of

snowbank or a relationship, most of us don’t plan on getting stuck. We start out excited and hopeful. We look forward to the adventure ahead. We barely think about the fact that we might need help until we realize that we do.

Yet almost every situation in life is an invitation for us to cry out for help. We are living in the wilderness, but we notice that fact only when disaster strikes. And when it does, we figure we can get ourselves out of our own messes—until we can’t!

It’s when we run out of options that we finally cry out for help. It’s when the waiting goes on and the rescue is delayed that our cries become more desperate and serious. These are the cries that move the heart of God.

God loves to save His people. The harder our situation becomes, the more His goodness abounds. The more desperate our cry, the more His heart is moved toward us in mercy. I love that about God. We serve a God who doesn’t take joy in our pain but

sits with us in our pain … and then redeems it for His purposes and our good. We serve a God who not only can save us but wants to.

The Passover table is one of the most important tables in the Old Testament. Through it, we get to know this God who invites His people to be rescued. The Passover table has been commemorated by the Jewish people every year from the Old Testament period right on through to today. The story behind the Passover table is one of a people who needed rescuing but didn’t cry for help until they were extremely desperate.

Perhaps you’re in a desperate place right now. You’re stuck in the wilderness season of your life, except yours feels more like a Chicago winter—never ending! You feel like you have no hope of rescue. Perhaps like me, you’ve metaphorically misplaced your phone. The only thing left to do is pray.

The story behind the Passover table is one of a people who needed rescuing …

If that’s you, you’re in the perfect place to witness God’s goodness. His goodness shines best in our most unexpected places. God’s invitation is for us to sit at His table of salvation. His promise is rescue. My prayer for you this week is that you will let God’s Word lead you where His Spirit longs to take you. Receive all He has for you as you seek His freedom and joy.

Like the people of Israel received, this week is your invitation to sit at God’s table and feast on His goodness in the places where you need to be rescued. P f L

Are you hungry for refreshment? Stories of God’s tables of blessing are woven throughout Scripture. This richly spiritual Bible study shows us to five tables that God shares as reminders of His love, mercy, and overflowing kindness. A Table in the Wilderness offers you to have a seat with us at the tables of:

• Salvation (Passover)—when you need to be rescued

• Unexpected belonging (King David’s table)—when you deserve to be punished

• Overflowing satisfaction (the wedding at Cana)—when you feel empty

• Remembrance (the Lord’s Supper)—when you’re likely to forget

• Eternal celebration (the marriage supper of the Lamb)—when life is hard

Even in the most unexpected places—our weaknesses, our sins, our doubts—God loves to invite us into His presence. Come to the table.

Includes QR code quick link access to streaming videos, spiritual exercises for contemplation and prayer, a self-reflection tool, and a leader’s guide for small group study

Dance Advancein

BY TAMMY DARLING

Not long ago, my husband and I scheduled a weeklong “celebration vacation” in advance of him being declared cancer-free.

While we didn’t have any guarantee that he would be declared cancer-free, we decided to put action to our faith and schedule a week-long vacation to celebrate. And so, we celebrated. We literally danced. We gave thanks. We laughed. We prayed and praised.

Eleven days after our celebration vacation, the oncologist did indeed announce that my husband was cancer-free. Results of a full body scan showed that radiation had eradicated the remaining cancer that the surgery couldn’t get.

The author of the book of Hebrews wrote that “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Heb. 11:1, NKJV). This assurance of things hoped for isn’t talking about the fulfillment of our every whim and

want, but the fulfillment of the promises of God. The evidence of things unseen are those promises yet to be manifested. This is how we can “know that we know” that God’s got this, even if we don’t know when or how. This confidence leads to faith dancing in advance.

Here’s something else we know about faith: James wrote: “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (James 2:26 NKJV). Could it be that those “works” aren’t as laborious as we think? Could it be that sometimes the “works” that enliven our faith are as simple as celebrating the victory before we see the victory?

Sure, that victory may not come when or even how we think it will, but the expectation of it is still to be celebrated. If someone who loves you says that they mailed you a gift, you’ll eagerly anticipate it, watch for it, and be grateful for it before you ever see it. Why should it be any different

POWER for LIVING® is published quarterly by Scripture Press®, an imprint of David C Cook, DavidCCook.org. © 2025 by David C Cook, 4050 Lee Vance Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, U.S.A. Scripture Press® and David C Cook and the related logos are registered trademarks of David C Cook. All rights reserved. ISBN 978-0-781-44642-6 Printed in South Korea. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked MSG are taken from THE MESSAGE, copyright © 1993, 2002, 2018 by Eugene H. Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress. All rights reserved. Represented by Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries.

Editor: Karen Scalf Bouchard

Designer: Susan Murdock

Production: Sean McCoy Vol. 86, No. 1

with our faith and the promises of God? Because the Giver is good, we can expect His gifts to us to be good; therefore, we can dance in advance.

Sometimes, via my sanctified imagination, I picture myself dancing with Jesus. Sometimes it’s a fastpaced dance of joy and celebration. Other times, however, it’s a slow while-I’m-waiting kind of dance. These times are precious and help me to keep my mind “on things above, not on things on the earth” (Col. 3:2, NKJV). Instead of becoming discouraged by what’s happening around me, I focus on God’s promise to work all things together for good (see Rom. 8:28), which then enables me to dance in advance.

Several years ago I found myself waiting (and waiting!) for a promise from God to come to fulfillment. I’m talking years in the making. When I didn’t feel as though I could hold on any longer, I decided to dance in advance by writing an encouraging devotional book for people waiting for a similar promise to be fulfilled. In doing so, I proactively gave thanks and demonstrated my faith before the promise came to fruition.

Life was never meant to be scary, but an adventure. We were created

for adventure. And every adventure contains elements of uncertainty and surprise. Amid uncertainty and surprises, our security—our trust—is in Christ. But only when that trust in God is settled deep within us will we be able to dance in advance.

As you think about what you’re currently going through, struggling with, or waiting for, what might “dancing in advance” look like for you? Our dances won’t look the same in every situation, but they will always contain a measure of praise and thanksgiving. Dancing in advance brings breakthrough, in your circumstances or in your heart. And because you spent time dancing instead of worrying, the coming victory will be so much sweeter.

When the battle is brutal, dance in advance. The fight may not be over, but the war has already been won. Jesus saw to that. And for that very reason, we can dance even before our circumstances change.

There’s victory in the dance, a power and joy that can come no other way. Faith rises, strength is restored. We can go on with confidence that God’s promises will be fulfilled. When we dance in advance, we put feet to our faith.

DAILY BIBLE READINGS

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Deuteronomy 27—28

Deuteronomy 29—30

Deuteronomy 31—34

Joshua 1—5

Joshua 6—8

Joshua 9—12

Joshua 13—21

What God Has Prepared

Fancy cars, fine houses, luxurious yachts—there is no end to the “things” a person can purchase if he or she has enough money. But God has prepared something for you that is so great, money could never buy it. Even the wealthiest billionaire who ever lived could not purchase it. Your brain could never even imagine it. This great thing He has prepared for you is the glory of Heaven.

One day, our eyes will see mansions that will be greater than any house on earth. And one of them will be ours. Also, when we look at the landscape of the world to come, it will contain unspeakable

brilliance that will always be new. And what makes all of this so wonderful is, it won’t cost us a dime. We have a kingdom that has been set up for us, and only one thing qualifies us for it—that we be God’s beloved children. We are destined for a kingdom that was purchased for us by God’s own dear Son. It is a kingdom of grace.

Today, as you face your current circumstances, remember that there is a world beyond the one you see now—a world that has been prepared just for you. And whether you are rich or poor, you will someday live in this wonderful place that God has prepared for you.

No one’s ever seen or heard anything like this, Never so much as imagined anything quite like it—What God has arranged for those who love him. – 1 Corinthians 2:9 (MSG) From Daily Grace: Devotional Reflections to Nourish Your Soul. © 2005 Bordon Books. Used by permission.

Q UIET HOUR®

Daily Devotions for September—November 2025

“In a surge of anger I hid my face from you for a moment, but with everlasting kindness I will have compassion on you,” says the LORD your Redeemer. Isaiah 54:8

Quiet Hour® is published quarterly by David C Cook, DavidCCook.org. © 2025 by David C Cook, 4050 Lee Vance Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, U.S.A. Bible-in-Life® and Echoes® and David C Cook and its related logo are registered trademarks of David C Cook. All rights reserved. Bible-in-Life® ISBN 978-0-781-44769-0. Echoes® ISBN 978-0-781-44617-4. Printed in South Korea. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture quotations marked (KJV) are taken from the King James Version. Lessons and/or Readings are based on the Uniform Series International Sunday School Lessons International Bible Lessons for Christian Teaching Copyright © 2022 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Digital products are subject to the End User License Agreement (EULA) found at DavidCCook.org/ EULA/ and any additional terms or restrictions that may accompany the product. Digital products cannot be returned, sold, or relicensed. This product license is good for 6 months. After 6 months, you must purchase another license.

Editors: Karen Cain, Christine Dallman

Cover Design: Dale Johnson

Design & Production: Dale Meyers Vol. 89, No. 1

Magnetic Attraction

“Who has woe? Who has sorrow?” (Proverbs 23:29)

Scripture: Proverbs 23:29–35

Song: “I Need Thee Every Hour”

Teaching is full of magical moments when children discover something new. Take, for instance, magnets. Kids are spellbound when they inch a paperclip toward a magnet, jumping in surprise when it’s suddenly snatched. They ooh and aah as a magnet hanging from a string lifts a nail without ever touching it. Magnets affect objects at a subatomic level, realigning electrons, creating predictable reactions.

The verses in Proverbs discuss another kind of magnetic attraction and its consequences. Though the topic is drunkenness, the truths apply to any temptation. The more enamored we become, the more power temptation has to realign our thoughts and distract our attention from God. If we give ourselves over to it, the writer warns of the woes and sorrows that follow.

The force exerted by a magnetic eld drops off with increasing distance. It’s also repelled by another magnet. Through prayer and re ection, we can identify and move away from temptations that pull our focus from God. Then we can ask Him—a force far more powerful—to repel temptation’s control and draw us close.

Father, save me from the pull of sin, align my thoughts with Yours, and hold me near. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

October 13–19. Cindy Peavy, an Alabama teacher and writer, explores the miracles of creation while hiking and kayaking across the country.

All Your Might

“Whatever your hand nds to do, do it with all your might.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10)

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 9:4–10

Song: “Rise Up, O Men of God”

Late nineteenth-century India was no place for an orphaned girl. Societal tradition discouraged the education of women, considered conversion to Christianity a betrayal, and condemned widows to a life of poverty. Yet holy men granted Ramabai Dongre the title Pandita , “the learned one,” for her reading and teaching of Hindu holy texts. She became a Christian when she read of Jesus’ compassion for women and witnessed nuns caring for prostitutes. She built a shelter where widows and children could be educated, a haven that ignited revival in India. Whatever her hands found to do, Pandita Ramabai did with all her might.

Today’s Scripture encourages us to get busy, to see what wrongs need righted, which people crave love, what needs must be lled. As long as we’re alive, we have hope that these things can change. We’re instructed to enjoy the present; but knowing that it’s going to end, we should put all we’ve got into doing what needs done. There’s a time coming when there will be no time left.

Knowing all that Pandita Ramabai accomplished intimidates me. But why she did it inspires me. Because she was an orphan and a young widow, her hands touched injustice and she worked to change it. What’s close enough to touch in our lives? Where can we make a difference?

Father, when I reach out my hands, may I ﬁnd the work that so urgently needs done. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Lessons in Contrasts

“Be very careful, then, how you live.” (Ephesians 5:15)

Scripture: Ephesians 5:11–19

Song: “Shine a Light”

To kayak in Alabama is to enter a world of green. The alligatorcolored river serpentines through the scene. Trees stretch toward the sun, their leaves the colors of parakeets, pears, and pickles. Even the ground appears green, teeming with scrubby growth. Paddling in this green, I once spotted a distant scarlet tanager (a kind of bird), its bright red body a ashy contrast to the verdant backdrop. Contrasts help us notice things we might otherwise miss, and Paul uses this device to teach us. He cautions us to avoid the darkness of sin, which is exposed by its opposite, the light of God. He advises us to live as wise followers and to seek understanding of God’s will, contrasting the wise with the unwise and foolish, who miss opportunities to ful ll His design. And he warns us not to get drunk, to be Spirit- lled instead, so our hearts and voices are prepared to worship and serve God.

Through these contrasts, Paul teaches us how to live a testimonial life. Not only does the light of God expose the darkness, but our lives can too. When we live carefully, allowing ourselves to be lled with the Spirit, we have greater protection from temptations, greater knowledge of God’s will, and greater awareness of moments to testify or serve. As a result, our lives may cast light upon the darkness in others’ lives, and the awareness of this contrast may encourage repentance.

Father, may Your Spirit help me live my life carefully so I can be a light to those around me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

The Domino Effect

“Throughout the period of their dedication, they are consecrated to the LORD.” (Numbers 6:8)

Scripture: Numbers 6:1–8

Song: “I Surrender All”

As soon as I could count, my grandfather taught me to play dominoes. I’d place a tile, and inevitably, he’d explain how I could’ve scored more in a different spot. But he never allowed me to change my move, insisting that “a domino laid is a domino played.” At eight, when I nally beat him, I felt the pride of a well-earned win. After he died, my grandmother asked if I wanted anything of his. I didn’t hesitate. Those worn-out dominoes became a treasured possession.

Today’s passage shows a similar transformation from common to signi cant. The Lord tells Moses that consecration can take place through everyday changes in what we eat or drink, how we look, or with whom we associate. These common changes don’t have inherent value any more than old dominoes. Their worth comes from their meaning, the holy purpose of drawing us to God.

No matter how much we sacri ce, we can’t earn the right to come before God’s throne. That right comes only through Jesus. But if we desire to consecrate ourselves so we can draw even closer to God, our sacri ces gain signi cance. We can offer time for worship and prayer, income to help others, or a change in our diet or appearance to express our love and devotion to God. Like treasured dominoes, even common things become holy when we dedicate them to God.

Father, may my everyday sacriﬁces serve the holy purpose of drawing me closer to You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. October 16

Pleasing God

“Live in order to please God.” (1 Thessalonians 4:1)

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:1–7

Song: “To Be Pleasing You”

Sergei Rachmaninoff towers among classical musicians, not for his imposing 6'6" height, but for his virtuosity as a composer and concert pianist. His success wasn’t accidental. After his early training, Rachmaninoff maintained a practice schedule of at least four hours daily. As a result of this rigorous routine, his ngers—which spanned 12 keys— ew awlessly in emotional, breathtaking performances. Even just months before his death, despite suffering from arthritis and exhaustion, Rachmaninoff delivered a performance so moving that the audience gave him a prolonged ovation that thundered through Carnegie Hall.

Rachmaninoff never settled for being good. He wanted to become even better. In today’s passage, Paul encourages the young church in Thessalonica to do the same. He praises them for living in order to please God, while urging them to “do this more and more” (v. 1). One way to please God, Paul says, is through purity, learning to control the impulses of the body.

The goal is sancti cation. But holy perfection is impossible! Knowing we can’t reach the goal could be discouraging. However, Paul’s use of “more and more” shows us that it’s an ongoing process. It reminds us to keep moving forward, to make daily choices in favor of holiness. Even after we are forgiven by God, we can keep growing through the help of the Holy Spirit.

Father, help me practice making pure choices today so that I can compose a holy life that pleases You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Watchfulness

Let us be awake and sober. (1 Thessalonians 5:6)

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:1–10

Song: “Will Jesus Find Us Watching”

Once called “Eternity’s Timepiece,” Yellowstone’s famous geyser is now known as Old Faithful. Though not quite like clockwork, Old Faithful’s daily eruptions can be accurately predicted within 10 minutes 90 percent of the time. Because visitors know when to expect an eruption, they wait on benches, watching for signs of increased bubbling and playful spouts of water hurled higher and higher until the geyser reaches its full 180-foot height. Yellowstone’s less-predictable geysers don’t draw the crowds that Old Faithful does. When the time is unknown, people are less likely to wait and watch.

Paul—the writer of 1 Thessalonians—understands this tendency. Because believers don’t know the time or day of Christ’s return, he warns that they could be pulled away from waiting and watching. Just like unbelievers who go about their lives unprepared, believers can be lulled into carelessness and temptation. Paul encourages the Thessalonians to be alert and exercise selfcontrol by protecting their hearts and their minds.

If we knew when Jesus was coming, we’d want to be ready. We might pray more fervently, repent more fully, live more purely, and pursue the lost more urgently. We’d wait on the benches, watching for signs, knowing that soon we’d experience the comfort of Jesus’ presence. That day is coming. Let’s be watchful and ready.

Father, help me live today like it is the day of Your return. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

The Power of Obedience

“We have obeyed everything our forefather . . . commanded us.” (Jeremiah 35:8)

Scripture: Jeremiah 35:5–11

Song: “Teach Me to Obey”

Routines and rituals help to form our families. Decades of research show that positive routines foster an emotional connection, develop a group identity, and create a sense of belonging. From family meals and chores to Sunday church and birthday parties, these moments of connection forge strong family bonds. Through the right kind of routines, marriages and family ties grow stronger, and children learn from their parents’ example of peace and emotional wellbeing.

The Rekabite family illustrates a united family. Out of honor for their ancestor, they practiced a different way of life. They lived in tents, drank no wine, and didn’t farm. Their traditions de ned them as a group, preserving their family, teaching them to live as a community, and arming them against temptations. The prophet Jeremiah held up the Recabites as an example of obedience at a time when Israel struggled to obey God.

We can learn much about obedience from the Rekabites as well. Like them, we have a Father who loves us. He has asked us to love Him, to abide in Him, to pray, to be baptized, to repent and forgive, to love and serve others, to make disciples of the nations. Like the family of Jonadab’s descendants, obeying God’s commands knits us together as a family of believers and connects us to God, our heavenly Father.

Father, I’m so thankful to be part of Your family. Help me ﬁnd joy in following Your traditions, participating in Your rituals, and obeying Your commands. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Prayer List

A regular devotion time is the perfect moment to go to God with requests, concerns, and praises. Use this space to remind yourself of particular needs that you wish to bring before God, and be sure to capture how you experience God’s answers to your prayers.

Name Request/Concern/Praise

Embracing God’s Longing and Our Spiritual Thirst in Prayer

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