Godly Heroes Facilitator's Guide

Godly Heroes A Small Group Study of Hebrews 11 Facilitator’s Guide

By Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. Communications should be addressed to: Turning Point Ministries, Inc. P. O. Box 22127 Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127 Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version.® Copyright ©1972, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

©Turning Point, 1997. All rights reserved.

All rights are reserved. No part of the material protected by this copyright notice may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from the Turning Point Ministries.

Cover Design: Graphic Advertising Layout: Louise Lee

Godly Heroes A Small Group Study of Hebrews 11

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ontents

Getting Started

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Suggested Group Format

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Preface • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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Session 1 — Godly Heroes: The Profile

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Session 2 — Godly Heroes Continue to Speak After Death

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Session 6 — Godly Heroes Prepare Their Children for the Future • • •

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Session 7 — Godly Heroes Care for Their Families

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Session 3 — Godly Heroes Walk With God Session 4 — Godly Heroes Fear God Session 5 — Godly Heroes Look Forward

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Session 10 — Godly Heroes Turn from Ungodliness • • • • • • • •

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Session 11 — Godly Heroes Are Victors, Not Victims • • • • • • • •

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Session 12 — Godly Heroes Turn Weaknesses into Strengths • • • • •

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Session 13 — Godly Heroes Look to Jesus

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References • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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Session 8 — Godly Heroes Are Not Swayed by Public Opinion Session 9 — Godly Heroes Are Persistent

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Getting Started Group Size We suggest that each Godly Heroes group have two group leaders (facilitators) and a maximum of twelve participants. Having more than twelve may prevent some from being a part of much-needed discussion.

Preparation Time The facilitator’s material is written in an almost word-for-word dialogue. However, it is hoped that as you come to know and understand the concepts presented, you will be able to “personalize” each session to fit your own style better. Highlight the points you want to emphasize and make notes for yourself.

Your group is unique—so adapt questions to their needs and situations. Be sensitive to each person who is in your group.

Keep in mind that the answers provided for the discussion questions are there only as a tool to assist you and may not be the only “right” answers to the questions being asked.

Become thoroughly familiar with the four elements of each session: • Introduction • Self-Awareness • Spiritual Awareness • Application You will find more detail about these on the following pages.

The facilitators should meet prior to each session to pray and make final plans. They should also meet briefly after each session to discuss what happened during the meeting and go over any follow-up that may be needed.

Godly Heroes Group Workbooks Before Session 1, the Godly Heroes Group Workbook should be distributed to each group member. Facilitators should be thoroughly familiar with the workbook before the first meeting.

During the orientation, you will encourage group members to complete the appropriate assignments prior to each group meeting.

Through the readings and other exercises in the workbook, group members can come to each session better prepared for meaningful discussion. Note that while group members are asked to read and think about the Scriptures to be covered, the discussion questions have been left out of the workbooks in order to enhance the spontaneity of the group process.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

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Suggested Group Format The group format for each session consists of four elements: Introduction, SelfAwareness, Spiritual Awareness, and Application.

There is a reason for each phase. The facilitators should always plan each session with this format in mind.

Part I Introduction (10 minutes) Begin with prayer. The facilitator may pray or may ask one of the group members to lead in prayer. After the prayer, a sharing question helps put the group at ease and makes the members more comfortable in being a part of the discussion. The lead facilitator should respond to the sharing question first, followed by the cofacilitator. This helps the group members to feel safer in participating in the exercise. After the facilitators have shared, the group members will share one after another around the circle.

Always remind group members they are not expected to share if they do not wish to do so. The rule is that everyone works within his or her comfort level and is welcome to pass.

This is not the time for detailed conversation, so ask the members of the group to keep their comments brief. If a person is obviously in pain during the exercise, the facilitator should interrupt the sharing and pray for the person in pain. After prayer, the exercise may resume.

Part II Self-Awareness (20-25 minutes) After the sharing question, the facilitator will lead the group into the Self-Awareness phase. Self-Awareness is a time to discuss the practical issues involved in being a godly hero. It is important to stay on the subject matter.

This is a time to focus on needs and healing, not to have a “martyr” or “pity party.”

It is suggested in SelfAwareness that the facilitators ask the group members to share as they wish rather than going around the circle as in the introduction phase. This is because people are at various comfort levels, and they should not feel pressured to self-disclose if they are uncomfortable. As the group continues to meet, members will feel more and more comfortable in being a part of the discussion.

tator should assign Scriptures listed in the Facilitator’s Guide to group members.

When each Scripture is called by the facilitator, the group member should read the verse(s). After the verses are read, give time for discussion.

Part IV Application (20 minutes) This part is actually a continuation of Part III. Ask for volunteers to share their reflections on the question. The facilitators should emphasize the importance of the group members’ applying biblical principles to their lives. Help begins with right thinking. The Bible says, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).

Obedience to the Word should follow with right behavior. Right feelings will follow right thinking and right behavior.

Remember, prayer is always in order. If a group member is hurting during this phase, stop and pray. One of the facilitators may lead in prayer or ask another group member to pray. This says to the group members that each one is important and that you care about each individual.

Part III Spiritual Awareness (20-25 minutes) After the Self-Awareness phase, the facilitator will lead the group into the bible study time. Having briefly explained the topic, the facili-

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

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Preface Welcome to the Turning Point small group study entitled Godly Heroes. This is a verse-by-verse study of Hebrews 11, often referred to as the Heroes of Faith or the Saints’ Hall of Fame.

Although there are more godly characteristics for each hero than time to discuss, we have chosen to highlight one virtue of each hero.

We have attempted to bring everyday, applicable, godly examples that we can all learn from and follow into each session discussion. The purpose of this is to help each of us build or enhance in our personal lives the characteristics of the various qualities found in the heroes listed in Hebrews 11.

There are obvious godly heroes who are not listed in this chapter. However, the godly hero is more strictly defined than other heroes. Heroes are known for their great strength, bold exploits, and notable achievements, but the godly hero is “commended by God.” The book of Hebrews is written to be an encouragement to the Jewish Christians who were dealing with the struggles of their newfound faith in Jesus Christ. The Chapter 11 heroes were an example for the early Christians and for us today. They are described as a “cloud of witnesses” that is a heavenly cheering section for believers in this Christian race. The witnesses in Hebrews 11 are godly heroes because they are godly examples.

May the same be said about us.

This study is designed for small group interaction and can be used in home groups, support groups, cell groups, and Sunday school. Although its best use is in small groups, the material is also applicable for personal study. May the Lord bless, challenge, and encourage you in this study.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

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1Godly Heroes: The Profile

Session

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ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Briefly thank God for each person in the group. Thank Him for their desire to be a godly hero. Recognize His presence and invite His guidance throughout the group time. Ask Him to make this study meaningful and applicable to each of their lives.

Sharing Question Welcome to our first Godly Heroes meeting. Have each member of the group introduce him/herself. Ask each to briefly define their view of a hero. The facilitator should begin the go-around.

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The purpose of this exercise is to help group members move toward being more comfortable in sharing with the group. Ask each one to introduce him/herself, beginning with yourself (and your co-facilitator).

elf-Awareness The goal of this course is to look at the various aspects of godly heroes presented in Hebrews 11. In the 13 sessions we will study the characteristics of godly heroes on a verse-by-verse basis from the chapter. This is not to say the only heroes in the Bible are limited to Hebrews 11.

Allow 20–25 Minutes Please make note of the Scriptures contained in this and other sections of the text. Remind the group members to look up every Scripture listed as they study the lesson each week.

Webster defines a hero as “a man celebrated for his strength and bold exploits.” It is further defined as “any man noted for his special achievements.” Webster defines heroine as “the female counterpart of a hero.” In this study we will refer to both male and female as hero. We will more strictly define the term godly hero—a hero commended by God. Hebrews 11 is often referred to as the Heroes of Faith or the Saints’ Hall of Fame. The purpose of this course is to help each of us build or enhance in our personal lives the characteristics of the various aspects found in the heroes listed in this chapter. Since people are looking at our lives, let us seek to be a godly hero. Godly examples become godly heroes.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Session 1

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The writer of Hebrews is encouraging the Jewish Christians not to fall back into Judaism under the old covenant. The writer begins by saying: In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe (1:1-2).

He emphasizes that Christ’s sacrifice for our sins was once and for all. Hebrews is a call to persevere under the new covenant.

Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith (10:19-22).

Although the heroes in Chapter 11 were under the old covenant, their faith was in the new covenant. In Hebrews 9:15, the relationship of the first and second covenant is shown.

“For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that these who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.” Simply said, the heroes of the faith looked forward to the cross of Christ; whereas, we look back to the finished work on the cross. There are other important Christian events in the New Testament we can look back to that increases our faith.

Name some that come to your remembrance.

Name some significant events in church history that have increased your faith.

What is the single, most important event, circumstance, or person that has increased your faith in Jesus Christ?

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Session 1

For example: • Jesus’ appearance after the resurrection—John 20:19-29; Luke 24:13-33; Acts 1:3-4.

• Christ’s Ascension—Acts 1:9; Mark 16:19.

• The Day of Pentecost—Acts 2:4.

• Saul’s Conversion—Acts 9:1-19.

For example: Martin Luther and the Great Reformation (1517); Jonathan Edwards and his sermon, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God; Hudson Taylor and his work in China; and David Livingstone and his work in Africa.

Personal response.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In There are certain basic characteristics that were common among all of the Heroes of Faith: (1) they were people of faith, (2) they were commended by God, (3) they believed in creationism, and (4) this world was not worthy of them.

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piritual-Awareness

Allow 20–25 Minutes Ask one of the group members to read verses 1-3. You may want more than one version read.

Biblical Narrative “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible” (Hebrews 11:1-3).

Hebrews 11:1 The importance of faith in the lives of these heroes is seen in that faith is defined immediately in this chapter. Verse one is often referred to as the definition of faith, but it also explains the characteristics of faith.

Faith is trusting confidence in God. Faith means we have an assurance of what we hope for. Faith is the foundation or promise of what we hope for.

What characteristics of faith do you see in this verse?

It is a certainty of reality which we do not see or a conviction of what we cannot see.

Romans 10:17 From where does faith in Christ come?

What should the listener of the Word of Christ do to activate his/her faith in Christ?

“Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.”

Act in faith on the Word of God.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Session 1

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Hebrews 11:2 For what were the ancients (Old Testament heroes) commended?

God makes His approval known to those who trust in Him. How do you think this happens?

Hebrews 11:39 “These were all commended for their faith.”

In the latter part of this verse, what makes their commendation

by God so significant?

What advantages do we have over these Godly Heroes?

Their faith won them God’s approval.

Because of their faith, they obtained a good report.

Although it may vary from person to person—we have an inward witness from God.

“Yet none of them received what had been promised.” Their faith was not based on immediate results. Their faith passed the test of endurance.

Their faith was based on the future work of Christ completed on the cross.

Their salvation was based on what Christ would do (die on the cross for our sins). Our salvation is based on what He has already done.

Please remember, Godly Heroes are more strictly defined— heroes commended by God. Hebrews 11:3 According to this verse, what is the required foundation for a person of faith?

Hebrews 1:2; John 1:1-3 What was Christ’s role in creationism?

Genesis 1:1 The Bible simply assumes creationism without question. It starts with a fact, and everything else is built on this truth.

What is it?

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The belief in creationism. “By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.” Not only do we find God as the originator of the universe, He is in charge of the order (time, history, ages). See Isaiah 46:910 “Through whom (Christ) he (God) made the universe” (Hebrews 1:2).

“He was with God in the beginning.

Through him all things were made” (John 1:2-3).

“In the beginning God.”

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

For centuries creationism has been fought by various educators, philosophers, scientists, and even theologians. In your view, why is the theory of evolution so destructive to the human race?

It takes away the foundation of faith in God. It leaves history to fate, not God. It takes away the purpose for living.

Has the increase in the teaching of evolution led to the massive problems in society such as violence, drugs, alcohol, etc.?

Probably—takes away faith in God the creator which leaves life without purpose.

The heroes of faith did not see the act of creationism, but they saw the creation and believed in the God of creation.

“So that what is seen was not made out of what was visible” (Hebrews 11:3).

Godly heroes have a firm foundation for their life of faith. They believe in creationism and the God of creation.

Hebrews 11:38 The world does not often recognize a godly hero.

“The world was not worthy of them.

They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground” (Hebrews 11:38).

Godly heroes often work unnoticed, “ill-treated by a world too evil to see their worth” (Phillips).

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pplication

Allow 20 Minutes

Our society is built on a foundation of faith. We place our faith in police to protect us. We trust pilots to fly us safely to our destination. We trust the surgeon’s knife. We place faith in pills to relieve pain and suffering.

Not knowing whether it is safe or not, we drink water from faucets. We trust governments to stand good for the paper issued called money. We place faith in architects who design massive buildings. Everyday we exercise faith in mankind. God has given each of us the capacity for faith.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Session 1

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It is normal to have faith in one another; however, the foundation of our faith should be Jesus Christ. The Heroes of Faith were people of faith—their foundation was faith in God. Remember, we are in a better position than those heroes.

Their salvation was based on what Christ would do—our salvation is based on what He has already done.

Let us examine the foundation of faith in our lives using I Corinthians 3:11-13 as the basis for our examination.

For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man’s work.

Name some foundations of faith in our society.

On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate the foundation of faith in Christ in your life? Is there any competition?

How does the competition rate on this same scale?

Emphasize that whatever becomes the center of our life will control our life.

Idolaters place their trust in God substitutes—money, good works, religion, humanism, education, etc.

Personal response.

Competition—career, sports, education, money, etc.

Write a prayer to God expressing your dependency upon Him as the foundation of faith for your life.

Closing Prayer

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Thank God for His Son—the foundation of our faith. Ask Him to make the lessons over the next few weeks applicable to each group member.

Thank Him for His presence and His guidance during the group time.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

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Session

Godly Heroes Continue to Speak After Death

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ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Thank God for the faithfulness of each group member. Recognize His presence. Ask Him to help each group member discover personal insight into his/her role as a godly hero.

Sharing Question What is your favorite movie or book (outside the Bible) that celebrates a person’s role of strength and bold exploits?

Hopefully during this time, the group will begin to think about various heroes as we move more specifically into the characteristics of godly heroes.

Apollo 13, The Hiding Place (Corrie TenBoon), Shadowlands (about C. S. Lewis and his wife) The Diary of Anne Frank, etc.

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elf-Awareness

Allow 20–25 Minutes

Today’s definition of heroes varies from person to person.

One’s lens of character, background, surroundings, or faith or lack of faith in God will define his/her picture of a hero.

Some people are viewed as heroes even though they are in prison for the crimes they committed, while others see a gang leader as a hero. Certain movie stars and athletes are viewed as heroes even though their lives are immoral and far from being commended by God. Then there are heroes who have contributed much to society with inventions, medical advances, and humanitarian achievements. Some heroes have thrilled us with their great sports exploits reminding us of the popular phrase, “the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.”

One may think of him/herself as someone who is not being watched, but our example is being observed by someone or perhaps many. People are remembered for good and bad after death.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Session 2

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James Moffatt wrote, “Death is never the last word in the life of a righteous man. When a man leaves this world, be he righteous or unrighteous, he leaves something in the world. He may leave something that will grow and spread like a cancer or a poison, or he may leave something like the fragrance of perfume or a blossom of beauty that permeates the atmosphere with blessing.” Man leaves this world either a Paul or a Nero (McArthur, 295).

Name some people who were well-known but left a bad mark on society after their death.

Examples: Hitler, Lee Harvey Oswald (murderer of John F. Kennedy), Ted Bundy (serial killer of young women), Nicolae Ceausescu (former leader of Romania), Stalin, etc.

Name some people who have left a good mark on society after their death.

Examples: Corrie Ten Boom, C. S. Lewis, John Wesley, Martin Luther King, John Wycliffe, etc.

As discussed in Session 1, there are certain basic characteristics that were common among all of the “heroes of faith” listed in Chapter 11.

• They were people of faith.

• They were commended by God. • They believed in creationism.

• This world was not worthy of them.

What person in your personal life most resembles these characteristics of a godly hero?

Grandmother, grandfather, mom, dad, minister, teacher, coach, etc.

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In Godly heroes speak after death. This certainly was the case of Stephen who was stoned to death because of his unwavering faith in God as recorded in Acts 7. A future godly hero “was there, giving approval to his (Stephen’s) death” (Acts 8:1). His name was Saul, also called Paul. What impact do you think Stephen’s death had on Paul and his future ministry?

We may not understand the full impact of Stephen’s death on the Apostle Paul, but there is one thing we know—Stephen proclaimed the gospel that Paul later explained in his epistles.

Stephen’s faith in Christ along with his godly attitude certainly did not go unnoticed by Saul.

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Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

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piritual-Awareness

Allow 20–25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead” Hebrews 11:4.

Cain and Abel were brothers. They were the first children of the human race. Abel, the younger of the two, was a shepherd, and Cain was a tiller of the ground. They both brought offerings to the Lord. Cain’s offering was rejected by God; whereas, Abel’s was received. There are differences in their sacrifices. In anger, Cain killed Abel.

Hebrews 11:4 How did Abel offer his sacrifice?

Why do you think Abel’s sacrifice was considered better by God?

By faith.

Many infer the sacrifice was better because it was a blood offering from Abel’s flock “and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). Cain’s sacrifice was presented from his field.

John McArthur states, In Abel’s sacrifice, the way of the cross was first prefigured. The first sacrifice was Abel’s lamb—one lamb for one person. Later came the Passover—with one lamb for one family. Then came the Day of Atonement— with one lamb for one nation. Finally came Good Friday—one Lamb for the whole world (301).

Hebrews 11:4 The King James Version says “By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain.” Being excellent, it was better because there was more in a qualitative sense.

According to Genesis 4:3-4, what was the difference in the substance value of Cain’s and Abel’s offerings?

“Cain brought some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the LORD.” Cain brought some of the fruits.

Perhaps he brought just what was available—or the leftovers. Abel offered his best—“some of the firstborn of his flock.”

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Session 2

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Matthew 6:33-34 Abel gave God his best. God was first in his life. In this verse Jesus shows what He wants from us and then His provisions for our life.

What does he want?

He wants us to put Him first in our lives.

What comfort do we receive in knowing we have done what Jesus wants?

He will provide our needs. We do not need to worry about tomorrow.

Genesis 4:5-6 How did Cain receive the news that his offering was unacceptable?

He was very angry. “His face was downcast” (v5).

Genesis 4:7 How did the Lord give Cain an opportunity to repent of his failure?

The Lord said, “If you do what is right, will you not be accepted?”

Do you think Cain knew what was right?

Genesis 4:8-9 What in these verses show that Cain’s attitude was rebellious?

Genesis 4:10-26 There are significant points in these verses that show the painful results in Cain’s life of his relationship with God. What are they?

Yes. This verse tells us Cain knew right from wrong because the Lord said, “If you do what is right.”

He refused to repent. Instead, he murdered his brother Abel. The murder was premeditated—“Let’s go out to the field”(v8).

1. “I will be hidden from your presence” (v14).

2. “I will be a restless wanderer on the earth” (v14).

Abel was the first man of faith. His offering had more value than Cain’s.

Precisely why Abel’s sacrifice was better than that of Cain apart from his faith is not shown. The generally accepted interpretation is that Abel sacrificed the firstlings of his flock in recognition of the principle revealed by God to his parents that fitness for His presence was by the substitution of a life (Boyd, Hebrews and the General Epistles, 68).

The first world false religion was founded by Cain. All other false religions fall at the feet of Cain—self-effort for salvation versus reliance upon God. I John 3:12; Jude 11 Describe the contrasting differences between Cain and Abel in these verses.

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Cain was evil; he “belonged to the evil one” (I John 3:12). Abel was righteous. Cain’s evil ways were known as “the way of Cain” (Jude 11).

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Hebrews 11:4 Why was Abel commended?

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pplication

Because through faith, he was counted righteous.

Allow 20 Minutes

In Hebrews 11:4, we read, “and by faith he [Abel] still speaks, even though he is dead.”

How does Abel speak today?

By example, through the Scriptures.

How does Abel speak to you personally?

Personal Response. If any members would like to share, allow time for this.

If you were to die today, how do you think your life would speak after death?

Personal Response. If any members would like to share, allow time for this.

Closing Prayer

Pray for any specific needs or fears group members may express concerning the example their lives have been.

Pray for encouragement and wisdom for the group.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Session 2

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3 Godly Heroes Walk With God

Session

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ntroduction

Allow 10 Minutes

Opening Prayer

Thank God for each member present.

Ask for His insight and wisdom as we look at the characteristics of godly heroes. Recognize His presence.

Sharing Question What is the first question you would like to ask God about godly heroes?

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elf-Awareness

This will allow group members to express some of their own concerns about God’s involvement in their lives. For example, a question may begin, “Why did You allow Cain to kill Abel?” This question will also allow the group members to get to know each other better.

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Walking together with another person usually means the two individuals have a good relationship. To walk with a person everyday whether in the mall, around a track, or on a stroll in the neighborhood means the two enjoy each other’s company.

Walking together is good exercise for the body, but the emotional and spiritual results can be just as beneficial.

When two walk together, it is much easier to exercise consistently and with longevity. They are there to encourage and challenge each other not to give up because one feels badly or the weather is unsuitable.

Do you have a person with whom you walk with or spend meaningful time? Describe.

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Personal response.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Walking together is a time to share and strengthen the relationship. It is a time for friends to share the details and concerns of life. We learn more about each other. Through a friend’s insight, we may be able to see ourselves more clearly or be inspired to achieve greater heights in our career, personal life, and with God. How has your life been strengthened by a friend with whom you walk or spend meaningful time? Describe.

Personal response. If any members would like to share, allow time for this.

Since there is much crime and violence in our society, it is even more important for people to walk together for safety.

Two people can watch out for each other. There is less risk for harm when two walk together. One person by him or herself may easily be placed in harm’s way.

Can you think of a personal experience when you felt in danger when you were by yourself? Describe.

Personal response. If any members would like to share, allow time for this.

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In When we refer to a person who “walks with God” or his or her “walk,” it is usually speaking of one’s lifestyle being consistent with godly behavior and actions. An individual who walks with God is in agreement with Him—his or her goal in life is to please God and maintain an intimate relationship with Him. Describe a person you know whose life shows he or she walks with God.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Personal response.

Session 3

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piritual-Awareness

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death; he could not be found, because God had taken him away. For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him” (Hebrews 11:5-6).

Enoch was the son of Jared (Genesis 5:18) and father of Methuselah (5:21). He was age 65 when Methuselah was born, and he lived 300 years after Methuselah’s birth.

Enoch is a man described as “one who pleased God.” He did more than talk about God, debate about God, or read about God. He “walked with God.” He and God were intimate friends.

Hebrews 11:5 What two aspects characterize Enoch’s life?

Enoch is the first man to escape death. He was translated from this life. What in verse 5 indicates that he was missed after his departure?

“He could not be found.” His life stood out so much they tried to find him after God took him away.

Before his death, Enoch was commended by God. Upon what was God’s commendation based?

He was “one who pleased God.”

Hebrews 11:6 What is absolutely necessary to please God?

“Without faith it is impossible to please God.”

When we come to (worship) God, there are two requirements to being accepted by Him. What are they?

1. We “must believe that he exists.”

2. “He rewards those who earnestly seek him.”

Genesis 6:5 What was the spiritual condition of the the world during Enoch’s life?

Genesis 5:21-22 Although the Scripture does not give specifics, what dramatic change in Enoch’s life is shown in verse 21?

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1. He was a man of faith.

2. He lived a life pleasing to God.

Session 3

Prevailing evil. “Every inclination of the thoughts of his (man’s) heart was only evil all the time.”

“After (emphasis added) he became the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked with God.”

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

As a godly hero, “Enoch walked with God.” What do you think is meant by, “Enoch walked with God?” Give examples.

Examples: He had an intimate relationship with God. Enoch pleased God. He communicated with God. He walked in the presence of God. He walked in true godliness.

What in verse 22 shows Enoch’s consistency and longevity in his “walk with God?”

He “walked with God 300 years.”

What in verse 22 shows that a person can be a family person and have a walk with God?

Enoch had sons and daughters.

Genesis 5:23-24; Jude 14-15 Enoch’s translation to heaven was a testimony of his righteousness. What in Jude 14 and 15 indicates that he was a preacher of righteousness?

Amos 3:3 This verse is an important key to Enoch’s walk with God. What is it?

Enoch prophesied, “The Lord is coming . . . to judge everyone, and to convict all the ungodly of all the ungodly acts they have done in the ungodly way” (Jude 14-15).

He was in agreement with God. “Do two men walk together unless they have made an appointment?” (Amos 3:3 New American Standard).

As with Abel, Enoch still speaks after his departure from this life. He probably made many people feel uncomfortable in an evil society because he was a godly example. He was a preacher of righteousness who went against the ungodly lifestyles of his day. He left a mark after his exit—“he could not be found.”

Obviously they looked for him.

John Phillips describes David Livingstone as: a marked man with an influence after his death. He gave his life to the pursuit of three major objectives: exploring, evangelizing, and emancipating. He opened Africa to the gospel and struck a blow against the devilish slave trade, but, above all, he won people to Christ. . . . Upon his death, his body was brought home to England to be buried in Westminster Abbey, England’s national shrine for the greatest of her dead. On the day of his funeral, one of England’s best-read papers blazed forth these banner headlines: “Granite May Crumble, But This Is Living Stone!” (Exploring Hebrews, 153).

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Session 3

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A

pplication

Allow 20 Minutes

We do not know a lot about Enoch. There are very few details about his life. It does not appear to have been very adventurous, but his ways of godliness stood out in an ungodly society, one that opposed him.

There is one thing we know! Enoch walked with God. His eulogy is short and to the point. He had a testimony that pleased God. If he were living today, his “press clippings” would not be impressive. His testimony probably would not attract thousands to a city-wide crusade. It is unlikely he would sign a book contract or be a TV attraction. However, as a godly hero, he did have an adventurous life. He had intimate fellowship with God. Maybe he was boring to some and old-fashioned to others.

Probably he was not a “main attraction” during his life; however, he was after his death because when they looked for him—“he could not be found, because God had taken him away.”

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How do you think Enoch would be received in today’s society?

Personal response.

Who would you place in company with Enoch as today’s godly heroes?

Probably the less-noticed, consistent Christians are the godly heroes— praying fathers and mothers, grandmas, grandpas, ministers in small churches, missionaries, etc.

Could it be that the more heralded Christian is not necessarily a godly hero? Discuss.

Personal response.

Write a prayer expressing to God your desire to be a person who walks with Him.

Personal response. If any member would like to share, allow time for this.

Closing Prayer

Pray about any specific needs and struggles as each person reflects on his or her walk with God. Thank God we are His children and He is eager to walk with each of us on a personal basis. Pray for wisdom and insight as the group members study next week’s lesson.

Session 3

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

4 Godly Heroes Fear God

Session

I

ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Thank God for group members who have been faithful in coming and in allowing God to work in their lives.

Thank Him for what He has already revealed concerning godly heroes and for what He will reveal in the coming weeks. Ask for wisdom and insight for this lesson.

Sharing Question It is really fulfilling to help someone in their time of need.

Describe a time that was especially rewarding when you helped someone.

S

elf-Awareness

This question may reveal memories of fulfillment for group members. It feels rewarding because “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

Allow 20-25 Minutes

The fashion fad of No Fear printed on tee-shirts has been worn by many. Others seek to make their point with the bumper sticker, Question Authority. Respect, reverence, and fear have become distasteful words in our society. There is a general lack of respect for flags that represent countries. No concern or respect for each other, other races, and social classes has lead to uncalled-for hatred and even bloodshed.

A lack of respect for mankind and distorted enlightenment can be traced to a nonexistent fear of God. In Proverbs 1:7, we read, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.” To fear the Lord means to have reverence and great respect for him. It is to have attentive concerns resulting in spiritual devotion. To fear the Lord means to treat God and His message with awe.

Why do you think the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge?

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

A loving respect for God will result in submission to His will and Word. The fear of the Lord places a person on the right track in seeking knowledge.

Session 4

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What does Proverbs 1:7 and 22 say about fools?

“Fools despise wisdom and discipline.”

“Fools hate knowledge.”

Having a fear of God means we do not take God or His message lightly. Watching movies that trivialize God and socializing with people who use His name in vain can slowly but surely detract from our reverence for God. Paul writes, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16).

How can we make “the most of every opportunity” to fear God in an evil society?

Have regular devotional times with God. Worship weekly in a house of worship. Choose close friends who will lead you toward God—not from Him. When temptations come to trivialize God, look for the door of escape.

According to Proverbs 9:10, what is the first step in obtaining wisdom?

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.”

Godly heroes have great respect and reverence for God and His message. Ananias and Sapphira did not treat God with respect. They lied to the Holy Spirit. Their lack of reverence for God cost them both their lives (Acts 5:1-10). After their deaths, “great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events” (v11).

The house of worship is a place to be respected and held with honor.

Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few (Ecclesiastes 5:1-2).

In what ways can we treat the house of worship without re s p e c t ?

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Session 4

• By drawing attention to ourselves rather than God. • By treating the house of God as an entertainment center versus a house of worship.

• By not teaching our children to respect the house of God.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Our service to God and times of worship and praise can be taken lightly. How does Psalm 2:11 address these two areas?

• We are to “serve the LORD with fear.”

• We are to “rejoice with trembling” (reverence and awe).

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In Much can be said about the strong faith and great accomplishments of Noah. His obedience was remarkable. He followed God’s instructions without hesitation. He prepared the ark with what appeared to be immense opposition and ridicule.

However, his obedient faith flowed from his great respect and awe for God.

S

piritual-Awareness

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith” (Hebrews 11:7).

This godly hero is described by God as a “righteous man, blameless among the people of his time” (Genesis 6:9). In Noah’s day the earth was full of violence and corruption. Because of the terrible wickedness, the Lord was grieved and decided to wipe mankind from the face of the earth.

God instructed Noah to build an ark to save his family because He was going to send a flood that would destroy all life on the earth.

Noah built the ark as commanded, and the flood came as God said it would.

Hebrews 11:7 In this verse, how is Noah’s faith proved?

By Noah’s faith, “he condemned the world.” Building this ark on dry ground was a witness to the unbelieving people. As he was building the ark, he was also doing something else that was a witness. II Peter 2:5 tells us. What was it?

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

“In holy fear (he) built an ark to save his family.” He was obedient to God’s word.

He preached righteousness. Noah preached while he built.

Session 4

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Noah “became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.”

What do you think this means?

Genesis 6:5 Describe the condition of man’s heart during Noah’s day.

Genesis 6:6-7 How did man’s evil condition affect the LORD?

Genesis 6:8 Describe God’s grace in Noah’s life.

Genesis 6:9 What did Noah and Enoch have in common?

Genesis 6:10 Name the sons of Noah.

Genesis 6:11-17 Noah was asked to build an ark in the midst of an earth filled with violence and corruption. He built a very large vessel on dry ground. Describe the size and characteristics of the ark.

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Session 4

He received God’s righteousness.

God’s righteousness was placed on Noah because he trusted God.

Their hearts were full of evil.

“The LORD was grieved that he had made man on the earth, and his heart was filled with pain.” He decided to “wipe mankind . . . from the face of the earth.”

“Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.”

They are both recorded in the Scripture as men who “walked with God.”

Shem, Ham, and Japheth.

“This is how you are to build it: The ark is to be 450 feet long, 75 feet wide and 45 feet high. Make a roof for it and finish the ark to within 18 inches of the top. Put a door in the side of the ark and make lower, middle and upper decks” (vv15-16). The ark was one and a half times the length of a football field.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Genesis 6:18-22 God established a covenant with Noah. How did Noah respond to this agreement?

“Noah did everything just as God commanded him” (v22).

Genesis 7:1-5 How did Noah respond when told to “go into the ark, you and your whole family”?

“Noah did all that the LORD commanded him” (v5).

When it was time to enter the ark, what did God acknowledge about Noah?

“I have found you righteous in this generation” (v1).

What in this passage indicates it was a universal flood?

“I will wipe from the face of the earth every living creature I have made” (v4).

Genesis 7:6-24 After Noah, his family, and the animals entered the ark, the rains came seven days later. It rained forty days and nights. The waters covered the mountains. The waters flooded the earth for a hundred and fifty days.

How old was Noah when the flood waters came?

Six hundred years old.

How long did God allow for the people to be warned and repent? See Genesis 6:3.

One hundred and twenty years.

One hundred and twenty years is a long time to prepare a large vessel with all that was against him. His patience was tried. What does I Peter 3:20 tell us about God’s patience at this time?

“God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built.”

People refused to enter the ark, but God and Noah waited patiently. As God prepared for judgment, He also provided a way of escape.

How does Matthew 24:37-39 relate this picture to the coming of Christ?

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

“As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.”

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Much more can be said about Noah; however, his entire life was built on a “holy fear of God.” He had deep respect, reverence, and awe for his Holy Father.

A

pplication

Emphasize Noah’s holy fear of God. His character was built on this “fear of God.”

Allow 20 Minutes

The bottom line is a common term which refers to the conclusion of a matter. When we make a purchase, we want to know the lowest possible or final price. We call that the bottom line. When we discuss an important matter and we want the plain facts, we call that the bottom line.

Solomon, who many believe to be the author of Ecclesiastes, discusses in this book the frustrations of life. In the last two verses of the book (12:13-14), he arrives at the bottom line of life.

What is his conclusion?

“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.”

What do you think was the bottom line in Noah’s life?

“By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark” (Hebrews 11:7).

Noah was a faithful and God-fearing man, but evil found a weakness in his armor. Genesis 9:21 re c o rds, “he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent.” This was a shameful event for a godly hero .

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Write a prayer expressing to God your desire for Him to re v e a l any weakness in your armor that may bring dishonor or distraction to your being a God-fearing person.

Personal response. If any member would like to share, allow time for this.

Closing Prayer

Pray for any specific requests which were verbalized during the sharing.

Thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit who is our comfort, our strength, and our wisdom. Ask Him for wisdom and guidance as we seek to live a God-fearing life.

Session 4

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

5 Godly Heroes Look Forward

Session

I

ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Thank God for each person present.

Thank Him for their desire to be godly heroes. Ask Him to be the guide for the group session and ask that each member have an open heart to the lessons He wishes to teach.

Sharing Question What is your first remembrance of God? Describe.

S

elf-Awareness

Go around the group and ask each member to share briefly. Help them to recognize the early age at which they became aware of God. If the memories of God were from parents, grandparents, or church leaders, this can encourage them to develop similar characteristics of a godly hero.

Allow 20 – 25 Minutes

A popular slogan says, “Life’s short, play hard.” The Christian response says, “Life’s short, pray hard.” Psalm 90:10 speaks to the length of life: “The length of our days is seventy years—or eighty, if we have the strength.” Concerning life James says, “You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (4:14).

A Christian has much to look forward to. The Lord has promised to guide us step-by-step and provide for our needs.

He places Christian friends and wonderful experiences in our lives.

What are some of the most memorable times you have experienced with Christian friends?

Family get-togethers, church friendships, special life experiences (marriage, births, awards), comfort and encouragement during difficult times.

What are some experiences you look forw a rd to in this life?

To see my loved ones receive Christ, be debt free, have grandchildren, healing of relationship, etc.

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Session 5

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There is an old saying which goes like this: “He is so heavenly minded he is no earthly good.” However, if we are not heavenly minded, we are probably no earthly good. Looking forward to that day when we go to heaven and see Jesus face-to-face helps us keep life in perspective. Looking forward helps us through the difficult times in life. It helps to work and wait patiently on God even when we may be unnoticed and unappreciated in an unconcerned world.

How has being heavenly minded helped you work through a difficult time in your life?

Personal response. Allow time for members to share if they would like to do so.

Paul says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). Looking forward to heavenly living helps us keep our focus during trials and tribulations. Looking forward to heaven also means being reunited with those friends and loved-ones who have already gone to be with the Lord. Name some of those you look forward to seeing in heaven.

Personal response. Allow time for members to share if they would like to do so.

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In Abraham is known for his immediate step of obedience. When he left home, he took the first of many steps “looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder was God” (Hebrews 11:10). His call from God is found in Genesis 12. Verse one tells us what he left to follow God. What did he leave?

S

piritual-Awareness

His country, his people, and his father’s household.

Allow 20 – 25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:8-10).

Abraham left the comfort and security of Ur to obey the call of God. He trusted God without hesitation and lived an entire life “looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder [was] God.” The son of Terah and founder of the Hebrew nation was promised by God that his descendants would become a great nation and possess the land.

This godly hero was a man of faith. His spiritual experience was marked by four difficult steps of obedience that showed the

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Session 5

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Biblical Narrative cont. strength of this man’s trust in God: (1) He left his country and family (Genesis 12:1), (2) his break with his nephew Lot (Genesis 13:1-18), (3) his focus changed from Ishmael to Isaac for the center of God’s promise (Genesis 17:17-18), and (4) he was willing to offer up Isaac, his only son (Genesis 22:1-19).

Having trust in God’s divine promises, Abraham was the recipient of a covenant known as the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 12:1-4; 13:14-17; 15:1-7; 17:1-8).

The great messianic promise is fulfilled in Abraham’s descendent, Christ (John 8:56-58; Galatians 3:16).

Abraham’s faith is an example for all of us. Paul uses Abraham as the central theme in Romans 4 concerning justification by faith.

Paul describes Abraham as “the father of all who believe” (Romans 4:11). Abraham was God’s friend.

Hebrews 11:8 What is Abraham’s “by faith” response in this verse?

What was Abraham’s knowledge of the final destination?

Hebrews 11:9 Abraham was in the promised land; however, he did not establish roots, own property, or settle down. What in this verse tells us that he did not establish a permanent residence?

“By faith Abraham . . . obeyed and went.” Immediate obedience. An Immediate step of faith.

“He did not know where he was going.”

He was “like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents.”

Genesis 12:8 tells us that Abraham pitched a tent and built an altar. Living in a tent, he was always on the move. Dr. John Phillips points out: The patriarchs were characterized by two objects: a tent and an altar. With the tent they confessed their attitude toward the world; they would not let its attractions blind them to spiritual realities. With the altar they confessed their relationships to the world to come; they were believers! Thus they adopted the attitude that, as far as this world was concerned, they were strangers (away from home) and pilgrims (going home) (Exploring Hebrews, 158).

Hebrews 11:10 What was Abraham “looking forward to”?

It is obvious that they “looked forward” to something much more superior than the land of Canaan.

How would “this city” compare with the “tent-living?”

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

“The city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.”

It would be a permanent residence designed by God—divine technology.

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How does Hebrews 12:22 describe the city?

“The heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God.”

How does Revelation 21:2-4 describe the city?

“The new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God.”

How does Ezekiel 48:35 describe the city?

“THE LORD

Hebrews 11:11-12; Genesis 17:17-19 How did Abraham respond when told by God that Sarah would bear a child although he was past age and she was barren?

“He laughed” (Genesis 17:17).

What did he ask for Ishmael?

“If only Ishmael might live under your blessing!” (Genesis 17:18).

God told Abraham that his wife, Sarah, would bear a son.

Through this son, an everlasting covenant would be established. What is the name of the son?

Isaac

In Hebrews 11:12, the amazing results of Abraham and Sarah’s trust in God are recorded. What were the results?

There “came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore.”

Hebrews 11:13-16 How were all these godly heroes living when they died?

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IS THERE.”

They “were still living by faith”(v13).

What about the things promised?

They did not receive the things promised. They never possessed the promised land. They did not live to see the ultimate seed of Abraham— Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

These godly heroes were admittedly aliens and strangers on earth. What in this passage indicates that they were looking forward, not to the past?

“If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return” (v15).

What were they looking forward to?

“They were longing for a better country—a heavenly one” (v16).

What in this passage shows that God was pleased with them?

He was “not ashamed to be called their God” (v16). He had a city prepared for them.

Session 5

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Hebrews 11:17-19; Genesis 22:1-18 By faith, Abraham offered his one and only son as a sacrifice.

Any son would be difficult to sacrifice; however, this son required even more trust in God. Why?

Because Isaac was the son of promise.

“It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned” (Hebrews 11:18).

What in Hebrews 11:19 indicates that Abraham expected Isaac to die?

“Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead.”

In Genesis 22:11-14, we read that God provided at the moment Abraham was about to slay his son. What did the angel of the Lord say to Abraham?

“Do not lay a hand on the boy. . .

Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son” (v12).

How did God prepare a substitute for Abraham’s son Isaac?

He prepared a ram caught in a thicket by his horns. Abraham offered the ram as a sacrifice instead of his son.

A

pplication

Allow 20 Minutes

In Psalm 84:5, we read, “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.” When Abraham left Ur, he also left a home which was paganistic. He was raised in an unbelieving family. Joshua writes, “Long ago your forefathers, including Terah the father of Abraham and Nahor, lived beyond the River and worshiped other gods”(24:2).

Abraham set his heart on pilgrimage, leaving the old life for the new. God called him and made promises. Abraham followed with complete trust in God. The old spiritual song says, This world is not my home, I’m just a passing through.

When a person receives Jesus Christ as his or her Savior, he or she starts the spiritual pilgrimage. We turn from ungodliness and follow Christ. II Corinthians 5:17 describes the start of the pilgrimage. Describe in your own words the start of this journey with Christ in your own life.

The Apostle Paul describes the end of the faith pilgrimage in II Timothy 4:6-8. Describe Paul’s experience in your own words.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

1. “The old is gone.”

2. Now there is a new set of values, desires, direction, and interests.

He recognized that the end had come.

He had fought the fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. He also recognized a waiting “crown of righteousness” (v8).

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In Philippians 1:6, Paul describes his confidence in help to make the pilgrimage. On what is his confidence based?

He is confident that “he [Christ] who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.”

What hope does this verse bring to your life?

Personal response. Allow time for members to share if they would like to do so.

When we receive Jesus Christ as our Savior, He provides the way for the journey. The way is found in John 14:6. What is it?

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way. . .’ ”

John Phillips in his work, Exploring the Psalms Volume 3, states: When we accepted Christ as Savior He came in to abide in our hearts. He does not merely know the way, He is the way. We now have the highway to Zion in our hearts, and that is better than any map. . . . We need no map to heaven because we have “the highways of Heaven” in our hearts. That is the difference between a believer and an unbeliever. The unbeliever does not know where he is going—we do (97).

Closing Prayer

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Session 5

By now in the group sessions, you might want to ask for volunteers to pray. Encourage them to participate in this way, but do not call on any specific person unless he/she volunteers.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes, Turning Point, P. O. Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

6 Godly Heroes Prepare Their

Session

Children for the Future

I

ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Thank God for each person present.

Recognize and thank Him for His presence among you. Ask Him for insight and wisdom and guidance during the session. Praise Him for His faithfulness.

Sharing Question As a child, who did you look up to as a hero? With what characteristics were you impressed?

S

Personal response.

elf-Awareness

Allow 20 – 25 Minutes

Godly heroes prepare their children for the future. Abraham broke the chain of paganism when he chose to follow and trust God. Abraham handed down to his son, Isaac, an example of faith in God. Although Isaac had his moments of weakness, he passed along blessings to Jacob and Esau. Jacob, in turn, blessed each of Joseph’s sons.

It has been said, “Values are best caught, not taught.” Godly heroes do more than teach about faith; they are examples of faith. One of the ways we prepare our children for life is through teachable moments. Children learn much about trust in God when they see their parents conduct themselves with faith and courage during difficult times such as deaths, job losses, job transfers, sickness, etc.

Describe a teachable moment you had as a child. How did it help pre p a re you for the future?

Personal response.

Parents also prepare their children for life through other teach able moments such as weddings, sporting events, devotions, faithful church attendance, etc. Give some examples.

Weddings: Children can learn that marriage is likened to the union of Christ and the Church.

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Session 6

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Sporting Events: The Christian life is compared to a race.

Devotions: Regular prayer and Bible reading will leave a favorable impression on children.

Faithful church attendance: Children learn early to make attendance at the house of God a regular routine.

Children’s faith in God is strengthened when they hear faith stories from their parents. Many dads and moms have become heroes to their children by sharing such stories. These stories may be experiences from the past or present.

Have you heard a faith story from one of your parents or another significant person that made a lasting impression on your life? Describe.

Personal response. If any members would like to share, allow time for this.

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In Every parent is parenting for future generations. How we raise our children will affect the future generation. There is a warning in Exodus 20:5-6, “For I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.”

In this passage, unhealthy parent-child relationships are clear.

It simply means that if we, as parents, live sinful and psychologically unhealthy lives, there will be profound effect upon our children, grandchildren, and perhaps other descendants as well. God is not punishing our offspring for our sins, we are, by not living the right way (Meier, Ratcliff, Rowe, 45).

The emphasis in the above passage should be on verse 6 “but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.” Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Esau, and Joseph were parenting for future generations.

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piritual-Awareness

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future.

By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons, and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff. . . . By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict” (Hebrews 11:20-21, 23).

Abraham passed on the promises of God, which he had not yet received, to his son Isaac. Being confident of the promises of God, Isaac handed down the same unfulfilled promise to Jacob and Esau. God had directly passed the covenant promise from Abraham to Isaac (Genesis 26:3-4).

Jacob and Esau were twins. Esau being born first was the official firstborn. Esau was tricked out of the birthright (heritage) by a scheming Jacob. God had said that “the older will serve the younger”(Genesis 25:23). Although a man of faith, Jacob also had his times of fear and anxiety. Jacob, known later as Israel, was so intent on receiving God’s blessings that he wrestled with God all night (Genesis 32:24-26). Although Jacob received the birthright, Esau was also blessed. When Jacob was dying, he blessed each of Joseph’s sons, Manasseh and Ephraim (Genesis 48:1,8-22).

Moses’ parents showed their godly heroism by hiding him for three months because of the decree of Pharaoh to kill baby Hebrew boys (Exodus 1:16).

Genesis 27:18-26 Who did Jacob disguise himself to be?

How did Jacob disguise himself as Esau?

Genesis 27:26-36 With the smell of clothes likened to Esau, Jacob received the blessing. Being assured by the hairy skin and open country smell, Isaac pronounced the blessing. After Jacob received the blessing, Esau came in from hunting. Hearing that Jacob had received the blessing, Esau was very upset. He had already sold his birthright to Jacob (Genesis 25:33). How did he respond to being deceived?

“Jacob said to his father, ‘I am Esau your firstborn’” (v19).

“He [Jacob] did not recognize him, for his hands were hairy like those of his brother Esau; so he blessed him” (v23).

“Esau said, ‘Isn’t he rightly named Jacob? He has deceived me these two times: He took my birthright, and now he’s taken my blessing!’

(Genesis 27:36).

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“Then he asked, ‘Haven’t you reserved any blessing for me?’ ” (v36).

The name Jacob means he grasps the heel (figuratively, he deceives).

Hebrews 11:20; Genesis 27:38-40 Both Jacob and Esau were blessed for the future by Isaac.

Knowing that Jacob had already received a blessing, Esau asked his father for a blessing. How did his father, Isaac, respond?

Hebrews 11:21; Genesis 48:1, 8-22 When he was dying, Jacob blessed each of Joseph’s sons. Who were the sons?

In verse 20, we see the significance of this blessing. What was it?

Hebrews 11:23; Exodus 1:16, 22; 2:1-10 Moses’ parents prepared him for the future during difficult times. What instructions did the king of Egypt give to the Hebrew midwives?

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Isaac responded with a secondary blessing to that of Jacob. Although Esau would live in a barren land and with constant conflict, eventually freedom would come. “When you grow restless, you will throw his yoke from off your neck” (Genesis 27:40).

Manasseh and Ephraim.

The blessing was very significent because people would pronounce a blessing by saying, “May God make you like Ephraim and Manasseh.”

“When you help the Hebrew women in childbirth and observe them on the delivery stool, if it is a boy, kill him” (Exodus 1:16).

What was the decree given by Pharaoh concerning the Hebrew boys?

“Every boy that is born you must throw into the Nile” (Exodus 1:22).

“When she [Moses’ mother] saw that he was a fine child, she hid him for three months.” What did she do when the child could no longer be hidden?

“She placed the child in [a papyrus basket] and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile” (Exodus 2:3).

Who found the baby?

Pharaoh’s daughter.

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Did Pharoah’s daughter know the child was a Hebrew baby?

“‘This is one of the Hebrew babies,’ she said” (Exodus 2:6).

Pharaoh’s daughter saw that the baby was cared for by his Hebrew mother. When the child grew older, Pharaoh’s daughter took the child as her son and named him Moses. In the plan of God, he became a great deliverer of God’s people.

Preparing our children for the future often means turning them over to God when we have used all options available to us to care for them. The mother of Moses recognized her powerlessness to spare him from Pharaoh’s decree; therefore, she turned his life over entirely to God’s care.

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pplication

Allow 20 Minutes

Earlier in this lesson we discussed teachable moments. Genesis 22:1-19 records one of the most memorable faith stories in the entire Bible. This passage talks about the difficult test placed before Abraham to take the life of his one and only son for a sacrifice. Instructed by God, Abraham took Isaac along with the wood, fire, and a knife to the site for the burnt offering.

“Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, ‘Father?’ ‘Yes my son?’ Abraham replied. ‘The fire and wood are here,’ Isaac said, ‘but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?’

“Abraham answered, ‘God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.’ And the two of them went on together.”

Isaac was a young man, probably about 20 years old, and his father was an old man. There is no indication of resistance or disagreement on the part of Isaac. Though bound and on the altar, he was in complete submission. With the knife in Abraham’s hand raised and ready to plunge into the heart of Isaac, God provided a substitute.

What in this teachable moment indicates that Abraham had taught Isaac by example to have faith in God?

What kind of a father-son relationship do you picture between Abraham and Isaac?

After Isaac questioned the whereabouts of the lamb, he was satisfied with Abraham’s answer—“God himself will provide the lamb” (v8). After the answer, “the two of them went on together” (v8). No turning back.

It is very likely that Abraham explained God’s command to Isaac. It seems clear that Isaac had full confidence in his father, and Abraham was pleased with his son.

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There was conversation. On two occasions in this passage it is said, “The two of them went on together” (vv6, 8).

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Write a prayer to God expressing your desire to be a godly person who exhibits a faith in God that will influence others, particularly your children and/or loved one.

Personal response. If any members would like to share, allow time for this.

Closing Prayer

Thank God for His gift of salvation.

Thank Him for the ways He has taught us so that we can, in turn, teach our children. Thank Him for being the source of our wisdom, our strength, and our faith. Ask for His guidance and involvement as we pass these lessons on to the next generation.

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7 Godly Heroes Care for Their

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Families I

ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Thank God for each member present.

Thank Him for their commitment and faithfulness. Thank Him for this opportunity to look at biblical examples of how to care for our families.

Sharing Question Which Old Testament hero studied thus far captures your attention the most? Why.

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elf-Awareness

Examples: Enoch—Going to heaven without dying.

Noah—His incredible faith to keep on building the huge vessel with no sign of rain.

Abraham—His commitment to leave all to follow God.

Allow 20-25 Minutes

There are many directions we could pursue to study about this godly hero, Joseph. There are numerous godly characteristics that point to him. However, in this study we wish to look at his unwavering care for his family even after being so badly mistreated. This godly hero cared for his family until his death and wanted to be identified with them and the promises of God after his death.

The term dysfunctional family has become an all too familiar term in society. Simply said, a dysfunctional family is an unhealthy family. Micah 7:6 describes an obviously dysfunctional family: For a son dishonors his father, a daughter rises up against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—a man’s enemies are the members of his own household.

On the other hand, family life can be the best thing this side of heaven. Sir John Bowring says, “A happy family is but an earlier heaven” (Mead, 140).

What do you believe are some of the more prominent distractions to the care of the family in today’s society?

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Examples: Lack of family time, divorce, permissive parenting, neglectful parenting, lack of regular church involvement.

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It is important to provide for the needs of our families.

However, we should weigh unnecessary career changes that may cause harm to the care of our families. Proverbs 15:27 helps us keep this in balance.

What is the word that signals a red flag?

Greed—“A greedy man brings trouble to his family.”

Proper care of our families means we will often have to overlook each other’s weaknesses, forgive, endure difficult times, and practice tough love.

What is your definition of tough love?

Tough love does not give into the wants that may cause harm or prolong a problem of the loved one.

Tough love says no when it is easier to say yes.

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In There are many good things we can say about Joseph. He had many experiences in life that could have made him hardhearted. Instead, it taught him about God’s love, mercy and grace. What he experienced was only a foretaste of Christ’s love for us. Christ’s love is available to assist us with the challenges of caring for our families. Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians is very appropriate in such cases. Let’s look at this prayer before we look more closely at Joseph’s life.

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen (Ephesians 3:16-21).

Do you have a challenge in the current care of your family to which you want to apply God’s love and grace as written in Paul’s prayer? Describe.

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Note that Paul relates the prayer with God’s “whole family in heaven and on earth” (v15).

After reading the prayer, note that Christ’s love surpasses knowledge.

Personal reflection—You probably will not have time for group members to respond. This question will help them think about the care of their own family as we discuss Joseph and his family.

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piritual-Awareness Biblical Narrative “By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and gave instructions about his bones” (Hebrews 11:22).

Joseph was the oldest son of Jacob and Rachel. He was born while his father was serving Laban (Genesis 30:22-25). He was loved more by his father than the other brothers because he had been born to him in his old age. Joseph’s brothers hated him and were jealous because he was Jacob’s favorite, and the beautiful robe given to him by his father added to their dislike for him.

Allow 20-25 Minutes Ask one of the group members to read verse 22.

Summarize the story of Joseph with the group. Notice that the bible study starts with Joseph’s interpretation of Pharoah’s dream concerning seven years of plenty and seven years of famine, Joseph’s being placed second in command, and his brothers visits for food.

His brothers (with the exception of Reuben) made a decision to kill him. At Reuben’s insistence, they did not take his life but threw him in a cistern after stripping him of his ornamental robe.

They later placed blood on the robe to make Jacob believe Joseph was slain by an animal. Joseph was taken from the pit and sold to Midianite merchants who took him to Egypt. The Midianites sold him in Egypt to Potiphar, one of Pharaoh’s officials.

Joseph became a favorite of Potiphar and was given important responsibilities. He was falsely accused of sexual misconduct by Potiphar’s wife and placed in prison. He again became a favorite and was placed over the prisoners. While in prison, he correctly interpreted dreams and was later asked to advise Pharaoh about a dream. He interpreted the dream which foretold of a seven-year period of plenty followed by the same period of time of famine.

When the famine came, the Egyptians and the surrounding areas were well-supplied. During the time of famine, the brothers of Joseph, except Benjamin, went to Egypt to buy food. Since Joseph had control over the food supply, the brothers made their plea to him. Through a series of trips and conversations with Joseph during which time the brothers did not recognize him, Joseph helped them acknowledge the wrong they had done to him. When he could take it no longer, Joseph revealed himself to his brothers.

The brothers were terrified as they listened to Joseph’s inquiry about their father. It was arranged for Israel, formerly known as Jacob, to come to Egypt. They were reunited in Egypt where he was provided for and placed in the land of Goshen. Joseph later died and prearranged for his bones to be reburied in Canaan.

Because of his faith in God’s promises, he chose to return with his people to Canaan.

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As time went on, Joseph was finally brought to the attention of Pharaoh by the chief cupbearer as one who interpreted dreams. Joseph was called to interpret dreams that troubled Pharaoh. He said to Pharaoh, “Seven years of great abundance are coming throughout the land of Egypt, but seven years of famine will follow them. Then all the abundance in Egypt will be forgotten, and the famine will ravage the land” (Genesis 41:29-30).

Genesis 41:41-56 When Joseph was placed in charge, what rank did he hold?

He was second-in-command (v43).

How old was Joseph when he entered Pharaoh’s service?

Thirty years old (v46).

Joseph was in charge of the food distribution, “All the countries came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph, because the famine was severe in all the world.”

Genesis 42 In this chapter we see that Jacob learned about the availability of grain in Egypt. He instructed his sons to go to Egypt to buy some for them.

Jacob sent ten of Joseph’s brothers to buy the grain. Why did he not send Benjamin?

“He was afraid that harm might come to him” (v4).

How did Joseph respond when he saw his brothers?

“As soon as Joseph saw his brothers, he recognized them, but he pretended to be a stranger and spoke harshly to them” (v7).

Although he knew differently, he treated his brothers as spies.

They said to Joseph, “Your servants were twelve brothers, the sons of one man, who lives in the land of Canaan. The youngest is now with our father, and one is no more” (v13).

Through a series of events, Joseph helped his brothers acknowledge the wrong they had done him. He placed them in prison for three days and then, while keeping Simeon hostage, sent them back home to bring back their youngest brother as proof of their honesty.

In verse 24, we see Joseph’s feelings about these orders. How did he respond?

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“He turned away from them and began to weep.”

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Genesis 43 Although there was much reluctance from their father Jacob, the brothers returned on the second journey to Egypt with the youngest brother, Benjamin. They also brought a gift along with them and double the money that was in their sacks to repay Joseph.

When they learned that they were going to Joseph’s house, how were they affected?

They were frightened. They thought they would be taken as slaves (v18).

When Joseph laid his eyes upon Benjamin, what did he do?

He was deeply moved. “He went into his private room and wept there” (v30).

Genesis 44 In this chapter Joseph placed a silver cup in the sack of the youngest brother. When the brothers were on their way home, he sent his steward to check the sacks. In doing so, he found the silver cup in Benjamin’s sack. The steward brought all the brothers back to Joseph. They pleaded with him to have mercy on them.

Genesis 45 What happened to Joseph when he revealed himself to his brothers?

How did Joseph calm the fears of his brothers?

“He wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him . . . Joseph said to his brothers, ‘I am Joseph! Is my father still living?’ But his brothers were not able to answer him, because they were terrified at his presence” (vv2-3).

He said, “Do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you” (v5).

Joseph had a history of being kind and considerate of prisoners in his charge. It may seem strange that he treated his brothers with such difficulty, but there was a reason for this.

He loved his family so much he practiced “tough love.” His firm love helped his brothers come to a point of repentance for their treatment of him. Genesis 42:24, 43:30, and 45:2 show that he had no malice.

What in these verses shows Joseph’s compassion for his brothers while they were experiencing “tough love”?

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He wept. It hurt him more than his brothers.

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With Pharaoh’s blessing, Joseph sent the brothers home with carts for them to return with their father and families. In Genesis 45:24, he showed care for his brothers.

What did Joseph insist that his brothers not do?

“Don’t quarrel on the way.”

When Jacob arrived in the land of Goshen, Joseph met his father. What did Joseph do? See Genesis 46:29.

“He threw his arms around his father and wept for a long time.”

Genesis 47:11-12, 27 How did Joseph make provisions for his family?

Genesis 47:29-30 When Jacob was ready to die, what did he request?

Genesis 50:15-21 What were the concerns of Joseph’s brothers after their father’s death?

Again Joseph shows care for his family by putting a larger picture on the entire story. What was the larger picture?

He “settled his father and his brothers in Egypt and gave them property in the best part of the land” (v11).

They were supplied with food.

He requested that he “rest with my fathers, carry me out of Egypt and bury me where they are buried” (v30). Joseph swore to do so.

They were concerned that Joseph would hold a grudge against them and pay them back for their wrongs.

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (v20).

In difficult times, Romans 8:28 is a comforting scripture. In spite of unforeseen problems and heartbreaks that occur while caring for our families, “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Genesis 50:22-23 “Joseph stayed in Egypt, along with all his father’s family. He lived a hundred and ten years” (v22). What tenderness is shown by grandfather Joseph?

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He “saw the third generation of Ephraim’s children. Also the children of Makir son of Manasseh were placed at birth on Joseph’s knees” (v23). Even though he was an important person in Egypt, he had time for his grandchildren. He probably had some interesting stories for them.

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A

pplication

Allow 20 Minutes

We have seen many characteristics of a godly hero caring for his family. We have looked at Joseph’s tough love with his brothers. We have seen his tenderness, forgiveness, and provisions he made for his family. He has shown to us to keep God’s larg er picture in mind always. Even as a grandfather, his love for family continued to show.

However, we go back to the scripture in Hebrews 11:22 to see his placement in this great chapter. “By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and gave instructions about his bones.

Then Joseph said to his brothers, “I am about to die. But God will surely come to your aid and take you up out of this land to the land he promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.” And Joseph made the sons of Israel swear an oath and said, “God will surely come to your aid, and then you must carry my bones up from this place” (Genesis 50:24-25).

In this passage we see that when Joseph was about to die, he identifies himself with his family roots. He was mindful of his heritage and the promises God had made. He believed his ancestors would be brought to the land God had “promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”

He would not leave behind jewels, a mansion, or other material goods. He left something priceless—his bones which would be an everlasting testimony to his care for his family and the promises of God. Later, “Moses took the bones of Joseph with him” (Exodus 13:19) when the Israelites fled Egypt. This was a reminder that God would take care of them.

Joseph chose his godly family heritage over fame and riches.

His final request was granted.

And Joseph’s bones, which the Israelites had brought up from Egypt, were buried at Shechem in the tract of land that Jacob bought for a hundred pieces of silver from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem. This became the inheritance of Joseph’s descendants (Joshua 24:32).

How has studying Joseph’s life helped you see ways to handle difficult situations and/or improve areas of concern in your family heritage?

Personal response. If members would like to share, allow time for this.

What stands out in your mind about Joseph and his care for his family?

Examples: The tough love, his tenderness and compassion, his desire to be identified with his family in death.

Many in today’s society do not have a godly heritage. We can take comfort in knowing that we can be the start of such a heritage. Abraham did not have a godly heritage. He started one.

Joseph, you, and I are a part of this great heritage.

Closing Prayer

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Ask someone from the group to close with prayer. You might ask for volunteers. Remind the group of the promise in Romans 8:28.

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Heroes Are Not 8Godly Swayed by Public Opinion

Session

I

ntroduction

Allow 10 Minutes

Opening Prayer

Thank God for each person present.

Ask Him to fill each heart with understanding as he/she examines him/herself as a godly hero. Thank God for His faithfulness to each person present.

Sharing Question In the last session, we talked about Joseph as a grandfather.

What do you remember most about your grandparents?

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elf-Awareness

Encourage group members to think about the most important attributes they remember or have heard about their grandparents.

Allow 20–25 Minutes

With Moses, the emphasis begins to change to great acts of faith. In previous verses we studied those who showed faith by their incredible endurance which was not rewarded with fulfilled promises. Moses shows great faith and heroism by not being swayed by opinions, wealth, fame, and power. He took a decisive action and chose to shun the gods and pleasures of Egypt in favor of God’s people and promises.

Moses shunned social status and the pleasures of sin and set aside prosperity to be faithful to God’s plan for his life. He refused the world’s offers in the most advanced culture of its day.

William Penn said, “Right is right even if everyone is against it, and wrong is wrong, even if everyone is for it” (Tan, 283).

To follow Christ means decisions will be required that are not popular or favored by the majority. Opinion polls change daily; however, God’s principles of living never change.

What is the most decisive action you have taken since becoming a Christian?

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Examples: Would not compromise with ungodly principles, changed careers, changed my circle of close friends because of their unethical conduct, etc.

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Can you think of a decision you have made in following Christ that has cost you friendships, promotions, money, etc.? If so, describe.

Personal response.

Being socially accepted may mean attending a church that does not proclaim the gospel clearly. Following Christ may call for us to fellowship with a body of believers that worships in a building that is architecturally unattractive and without people who are favorable business or professional contacts.

The preacher may be plain and simple but a man of God. What is the most important thing to you about the house of worship you attend and the minister of the congregation of which you are a part?

Personal response.

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In Moses resolved in his heart not to be swayed by public opinion. He was committed to following God’s plan and would not permit the Egyptians or his own people to deter him.

Another example of the resolve to follow God in spite of public opinion is the three Hebrew children as recorded in Daniel 3. King Nebuchadnezzar made a large image of gold and commanded that all bow at the sound of music. Whoever refused to fall down and worship would “immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace”(v6). When Nebuchadnezzar heard that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego paid no attention to the command, he was furious.

The three Hebrew children were brought before the king. He emphasized they would be thrown immediately into the furnace. In verse 17, they responded by saying that God would deliver them.

What in verse 18 underscores their resolve not to fall and worship the image regardless of the outcome?

“But even if he does not [rescue us], we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

Myer Pearlman said, “They had no certainty of deliverance but they had certainty of duty” (27).

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piritual-Awareness

Allow 20–25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible. By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch the firstborn of Israel.

By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned” (Hebrews 11:24-29).

Moses was the son of Amram. His mother was Jochebed. He had a brother, Aaron, and a sister, Miriam. The life of Moses is broken down into three periods of forty years each (Acts 7:23, 30, 36).

There was his life in Egypt, his exile in Arabia, and his important role in the government of Israel.

At the time of Moses’ birth, there was a decree which commanded that all Hebrew male babies be killed. His mother hid him for three months, and when it was no longer possible to conceal him, she left him in a small ark floating among the reeds of the Nile River. His sister watched over him. The daughter of Pharoah found the child and adopted him. Moses became “educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action” (Acts 7:22).

When Moses was forty years old, he made a decision to visit his brethren (Acts 7:23). After observing an Egyptian beating a fellow Israelite, he killed the Egyptian. At this time the Israelites did not recognize that God was using Moses to rescue them. They refused his role as a peacemaker. “He fled to Midian, where he settled as a foreigner” (Acts 7:29).

While in exile, he married Zipporah whose father was Jethro, a priest of Midian. As a shepherd, Moses received the call of God. While “tending the flock of Jethro . . . he led the flock to the far side of the desert and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up” (Exodus 3:1-2). In this holy encounter with God, Moses was given the charge to bring the Israelites out of Egypt.

God gave Moses several signs indicating that He would be with him.

With Jethro’s blessings, Moses returned to Egypt along with his wife and sons. Moses and Aaron appeared before Pharaoh demanding permission for the children of Israel to leave Egypt.

Pharoah’s heart was hardened, and he refused to let them go even though he and his people suffered from many plagues sent

by God.

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Biblical Narrative cont.

It was not until after the plague on the firstborn that Pharaoh released the children of Israel. The children of the Israelites were saved by the Passover. “The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt” (Exodus 12:13). On that night Moses led this deliverance.

In this great deliverance, “God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea” (Exodus 13:18). The Israelites were brought through the Red Sea on dry land; whereas, the charging Egyptians perished in its waves.

Later at Sinai, Moses met with God on the mountain where he received the Ten Commandments. Because of his sin at Meribah (Numbers 20:12), he forfeited the opportunity of going into the land of promise. He was permitted to see it, but he did “not cross over into it” (Deuteronomy 34:4).

Moses died in Moab and was buried there. Deuteronomy ends with this tribute: “For no one has ever shown the mighty power or performed the awesome deeds that Moses did in the sight of all Israel” (34:12).

Hebrews 11:24; Exodus 2:11-12 What did Moses observe that caused him to be angry?

What showed his fierce loyalty to his own people?

“He saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his own people” (Exodus 2:11).

“He killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand” (Exodus 2:12).

Hebrews 11:25 Moses could have easily accepted his role as Pharoah’s grandson and become a part of the king’s court. Instead, he chose to identify himself with the oppression of his own people.

What do you think was the underlying factor that inspired him to be mistreated with his people “rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time”?

Hebrews 11:26 Moses was able to see beyond the materialism of the advanced culture of Egypt and look forward to Christ. He knew of the promise made to Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:15. Describe this promise.

It was his faith in the promises of God given to Abraham and his descendent. Note the beginning of verse 24: “By faith. . .”

This is often called the protevangeli um.

• “He will crush your head.” Christ will defeat the devil, bringing total victory. (See Romans 16:20.)

• “You will strike his heel.” At the cross, Satan did his worst to Jesus.

However, from the cross came our redemption along with the resurrection of Christ.

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Moses identified with the Messiah long before Christ came to earth. This is not strange because Abraham “rejoiced at the thought of seeing my [Christ speaking of himself] day; he saw it and was glad” (John 8:56).

Hebrews 11:27, Exodus 12:48-51 Moses left Egypt two times. The first time he left because he was fleeing from Pharoah after killing the Egyptian. The second time he left with the children of Israel without fearing the king.

What was commanded of Moses and the Israelites before they began their journey to the Red Sea? Hebrews 11:28, Exodus 12:7, 23, 24 Where were the children of Israel instructed to place the blood from the animals they were to kill for the Passover?

They celebrated the Passover. They worshiped the Lord.

“Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the house where they eat the lambs” (Exodus 12:7).

How would the blood from the Passover lamb affect the destroyer?

“When the LORD goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down” (Exodus 12:23).

What were the instructions regarding the continuance of the Passover?

“Obey these instructions as a lasting ordinance for you and your descendants” (Exodus 12:24).

Hebrews 11:29; Exodus 13:17-18; Exodus 14:10, 13-14, 21-28 Why did God not lead the children of Israel through the Philistine country even though it was shorter?

Because “if they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt” (Exodus 13:17).

Instead, “God led the people around by the desert road toward the Red Sea” (Exodus 13:18). Going toward the Red Sea, they were totally dependent upon God.

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How did the Israelites react to the Egyptian pursuit of them?

“They were terrified and cried out to the LORD” (Exodus 14:10).

How did Moses respond to their terror and disgust with him?

He said, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. . . .

The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still” (Exodus 14:13-14).

Session 8

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When they reached the sea, what did Moses do?

He “stretched out his hand over the sea” (Exodus 14:21).

How did the Lord prepare for the Israelites’ walk through the sea?

“All that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. . . . The Israelites went through the sea on dry ground” (Exodus 14:21-22).

The Lord threw the Egyptian army into confusion by making the wheels of their chariots come off. The Lord commanded Moses to “stretch out your hand over the sea so that the waters may flow back over the Egyptians and their chariots and horsemen” (Exodus 14:26). There were no survivors.

A

pplication

Allow 20 Minutes

Having all the advantages of a royal family, Moses still chose to identify with his people. He refused wealth, fame, influence, and prestige because he had a sense of direction in his life.

Moses had a sense of values based on the promises of God. In today’s society, much is said about values. We hear the terms family values, traditional values, values clarification, values education, etc. A value system includes the social principles and standards by which we function in life. Our value system will be anchored by what we believe to be most worthy in our lives. Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).

Jesus gives sobering words to the Pharisees concerning values clarification in Luke 16:15. “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God’s sight.”

How would you define your value system?

Personal response. If members would like to share, allow time for this.

How do you see your value system shaping your future?

Personal response. If members would like to share, allow time for this.

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Write a prayer to God expressing any need for firmness or redirection in your present value system.

Closing Prayer

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Personal response.

Thank God for the insights and opinions shared. Thank Him for His word which leads us into all truth. Ask Him to help each of us as we seek to build our value system on Christ, the Solid Rock.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

9Godly Heroes Are Persistent

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I

ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Thank God for each group member and for His perfect plan in bringing this specific group together. Thank Him for each person’s openness and willingness to share. Ask Him for His guidance and help during this session.

Sharing Question Who is the teacher and/or coach who most resembled a godly hero to you when you were in school?

S

elf-Awareness

Personal response

Allow 20–25 Minutes

It takes tremendous courage to have perseverance in the face of opposition. It takes faith in God to have the courage to persevere. Holding on, standing firm, maintaining one’s course, and patience are characteristics of Joshua. His persistence was based on his faith in God’s promises.

Jericho blocked the entrance to the promised land for the child ren of Israel. This land was theirs; it had been promised.

However, there was an obstacle in their way. Joshua, the godly hero, pursued God’s word, following God’s command to march around Jericho for seven days. This may have seemed strange, but it was God’s plan. This was a display of God’s wisdom versus human wisdom.

Every Christian in his or her walk with Christ has his or her personal Jericho with which to contend. Sometimes these obstacles seem impossible to overcome from a human perspective.

Have you experienced a personal Jericho?

Personal response.

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Continuing to do what God says to do through His word can be challenging as we wait for the walls of our Jericho to fall.

A re you having or have you had a struggle with being persistent in an area of your life? If so, describe.

Personal response.

Marching around Jericho for seven days would not seem to be as physically demanding as it was mentally. It re q u i red a lot of courage to march around the massive walls of Jericho expecting them to fall.

What has mentally challenged you most as a Christian?

Personal response.

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In Jesus told His disciples the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1-8. The widow kept coming to the unjust judge asking for “justice against [her] adversary. For some time he refused” (vv3-4). He finally granted her request because she was wearing him out with her coming. In verse 1, Jesus is showing the disci- “That they should always pray and not give up.“ ples the reason for this parable. What is it?

S

piritual-Awareness

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days” (Hebrews 11:30).

Joshua was an assistant to and the successor of Moses. Joshua was one of those chosen to explore the land of Canaan. He and Caleb were the only ones to come back with a positive report. They wanted to go and possess the land, but they were opposed.

After the forty years of wandering was nearing the end, Moses, under instructions from God, vested in Joshua the authority to lead the Israelites (Numbers 27:18-23). Joshua was a man who feared and obeyed God. He is remembered as a great ruler. “The Israelites listened to him and did what the LORD had commanded Moses” (Deuteronomy 34:9). God used Joshua to carry out great military strategies.

One of the great victories was the conquest of Jericho. “Jericho . . . was not a large center of population, but rather a citadel or fortress, a city to which the people of the country-side resorted 50

Session 9

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Biblical Narrative cont. when attack impended. The excavated ruins indicate [from archaeological expedition headed by Professor Garstang (19251933)] that the walls were of sun-dried bricks. . . . They consisted of two parallel walls, the outer one six feet thick, the inner one double that width, both about thirty feet high with a space of fifteen feet between them” (Boyd, Old Testament—Book 1, 144-145).

Joshua was given a divine plan for the conquest of Jericho. The plan was for the armed men along with the priests carrying trumpets and the Ark to march around the city for six days and seven times on the seventh day. “The seventh time around, when the priests sounded the trumpet blast, Joshua commanded the people, ‘Shout! For the LORD has given you the city!’” (Joshua 6:16).

The walls of the city fell as the plan of God was carried out.

Joshua 1:8-9 God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous.

What kind of emphasis did God place on the Law, the Word of God?

What did God promise to Joshua concerning His presence?

Hebrews 11:30; Joshua 6:2-5 The Lord instructed Joshua and his warriors to march around the city once a day for six days. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times. What were the priests instructed to do while they were marching around the city seven times?

“Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it” (v8).

That He would be with him wherever he went.

They were to blow the trumpets.

When the Israelites heard the priests sound a long blast on the trumpets, what were they instructed to do?

They were to give a loud shout.

Joshua 6:8-14 In Joshua 1, we saw that God instructed Joshua not to “let the Book of the Law depart from” his mouth. He was to meditate on the Word day and night. What is the focus in these verses?

The Ark of the Lord.

In their marching to capture the city, of what do you think the Ark of the Lord reminded them?

That it was the Lord who would make the conquest of Jericho possible.

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Hebrews 11:30; Joshua 6:12-21 The Israelites followed the commands of God and received the results God said would happen. As soon as the wall collapsed, the men charged in. What did they do then?

“They devoted the city to the LORD and destroyed with the sword every living thing in it—men and women, young and old, cattle, sheep and donkeys” (Joshua 6:21).

The Jericho wall was massive, and the collapse was nothing less than a miracle of God. There were two walls 15 feet apart. The outer wall was 6 feet thick while the inner wall was 12 feet thick.

Both were about 30 feet high.

II Corinthians 5:7 Walking around the massive wall of Jericho was done one step at a time. Henrietta Mears says, “It is not hard work that is needed; it is the want of vision that makes us fail. It is easy to blow a trumpet, a little thing to walk around a wall. The hard thing is to see the good in it” (89).

How does this verse capture their 13 marches around the massive walls of Jericho?

I Corinthians 1:26-31 What does the conquest of Jericho teach us concerning God’s ways of working in human life?

A

pplication

They were walking by faith in the promises of God and not by sight of the massive walls.

God often chooses the “foolish things of the world to shame the wise”(v27).

Allow 20 Minutes

As we study these godly heroes, the term by faith occurs over and over again. Joshua is no exception. He was a persistent leader led by God’s Word. Let us not forget the directive from God to Joshua 1:8: “Do not let this book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”

There are different types of faith, but they all rest on the Word of God. There is faith that receives, as we come empty-handed to Christ for salvation. There is faith that reckons, that counts on God to undertake for us. There is faith that risks, that moves out in God’s power, daring to do the impossible.

And there is faith that rests, the kind that, in the middle of pain and suffering and rejection, sits back in confidence that God will deliver (McArthur, 362-363).

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Joshua led the conquest of Jericho by reckoning in his heart that God would undertake for them. He and the Israelites took a risk by moving in God’s power and expecting Him to do the impossible. Their faith helped them rest in the confidence of God that if they kept on walking and persevering, the massive walls would come down. Finally, this was all possible because Joshua and his people had received in their hearts the promises of God. In his old age, Joshua assembled Israel and talked with them about how God had taken care of them. He called for them to “ ‘throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the LORD, the God of Israel.’ And the people said to Joshua, ‘We will serve the LORD our God and obey him’ ” (Joshua 24:23-24). They renewed their covenant with God at Shechem.

Some of Joshua’s last words show us his faith in God had not wavered one bit. He was still loyal and perhaps ready to move again if God called for him to do so. Joshua said, “But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15).

Another way we could describe Josuha’s words would be— T h e re are things or people that I cannot control, but what I am responsible for, I will carry out my responsibilities by serving the Lord.

Describe some things you are responsible to the Lord for and have committed (or will commit) to his Lordship.

Examples: I am responsible for my own walk with the Lord. I will do everything in my power and with God’s help to encourage my children, parents, wife, husband, and friends to serve the Lord. I will be a good steward of my resources, etc.

Sometimes in our walk with Christ, we will continue and continue, pray and pray, and still see no breakthrough in areas of need. If we are walking in truth against the wickedness of Satan, God has an answer in Ephesians 6:13. What is it?

“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”

Joshua kept on marching around the walls. For us, it may mean that we must keep on standing. I like to call that “a stare-down with the devil.” Don’t blink. Stand firm.

Write a prayer to God expressing your desire to stand in God’s truth thus being a person of faith.

Personal response.

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Closing Prayer

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Thank God especially for the way He worked during this session. Pray for any needs or struggles that may have been expressed. Pray for His wisdom and guidance as we persevere in His calling for each of our lives.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Heroes Tu rn From 10 Godly Ungodliness

Session

I

ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Thank God for each group member.

Thank Him for each member’s faithfulness and desire to be a godly hero.

Ask Him to use this material to bring about His desired change in our lives.

Sharing Question How do you want your children and/or family members to remember you?

S

elf-Awareness

As each member of the group takes a turn answering this question, it should become clear which attributes are desired and needed in order to be a godly hero.

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Except for the grace of God, Rahab is an unlikely candidate for the Hebrews 11 Hall of Faith. God’s grace places her among this distinguished group of godly heroes. Regardless of one’s past, God’s grace is always sufficient. Charles L. Allen says, “In the Bible there are three distinctive meanings of grace; it means the mercy and active love of God; it means the winsome attractiveness of God; it means the strength of God to overcome” (Mead, 200).

In addition to being a prostitute, Rahab was a Canaanite. The Canaanites were very much anti-God which makes God’s grace even more significant to her. The grace of God extends to up-and-outers, down-and-outers, the rejected, the rich, the poor—to everyone. God’s grace is freely given to us although it is undeserved.

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John Newton, the slave of a slave trader, wrote the song Amazing Grace which is often referred to as the Christian national anthem. Sung by millions, it says “Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost, but now I’m found, was blind but now I see.”

Can you identify with this verse in your life? If so, describe.

Personal response. If any member would like to share, allow time for this.

What is your definition of God’s grace?

Example: unmerited favor. The acronym for grace: God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense.

Grace is simple yet profound. When asked the definition of grace, St. Augustine responded, “I know until you ask me; when you ask me I do not know” (Mead, 200).

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In Everything in the Christian life is “by grace . . . through faith”(Ephesians 2:8). It has been said that grace is the hand of God reaching to man and faith is the hand of man reaching to God. God’s grace reached out to Rehab, and she reached to God in faith by helping the spies.

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Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

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piritual-Awareness

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient” (Hebrews 11:31).

Before crossing the Jordan, spies were sent to Canaan to spy out the land as far as Jericho. In this city lived Rahab, a prostitute.

Although she had a father, a mother, brothers, and sisters living in Jericho, she lived in her own house. Her house was “part of the city wall” (Joshua 2:15). An archaeological expedition headed by Garstang “determined that the two walls were at various places” tied together by the houses built astride them” (Boyd, Old Testament—Book 1, 145). So her house was on top of the wall.

The king of Jericho was aware that the spies had come and sent a message to Rahab to turn in the men. Instead, she befriended the spies and hid them. As soon as the men in pursuit were gone, she asked for a pledge from the spies to spare her life and the lives of her family. They assured Rahab she and her family would be spared.

The pledge was made with the condition that a scarlet cord with which she let the spies escape would hang out the same window.

This scarlet cord would assure Rahab’s safety and the protection of her family as they remained under her roof. When Jericho was conquered, at the command of Joshua, she and her relatives were taken to safety.

Joshua 2:1-6 How many spies did Joshua send to Jericho?

Two spies.

The king of Jericho knew the spies were in the land. What did he ask Rahab to do?

“Bring out the men who came to you” (v3).

Rahab hid the spies. Where did she hide them?

“Under the stalks of flax” on the roof (v6).

Joshua 2:7-11 As soon as the pursuers had gone and before the spies lay down for the evening, Rahab had a conversation with them.

What did she tell the spies?

What did she say that acknowledged her faith in God?

“The LORD has given this land to you.”

She said that all in the country were “melting in fear” (v9).

“For the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below”(v11).

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Joshua 2:12-14 What was the request Rahab made of the spies?

How did the spies respond to her request?

Joshua 2:15-16 How did Rehab get the spies out of her house?

She asked the spies to swear that they would show kindness to her family. She requested that they be saved from death.

They assured her, “Our lives for your lives!” (v14).

“By a rope through the window” (v15).

Rahab told the spies to go to the hills and hide from the pursuers for three days. They could go on their way after the pursuers returned.

Joshua 2:17-21 The spies made an oath with Rahab which would protect her and her family when the Israelites entered the land. What was necessary for this oath to be binding?

The spies emphasized the importance of Rahab’s family staying in her house. What would happen if her family went outside the house into the street?

It would be necessary for Rahab to tie a “scarlet cord in the window”through which the spies were let down (v18).

Their blood would be on their own head. The spies would not be responsible for them if they went outside the house.

Rahab agreed, and “she tied the scarlet cord in the window” (v21).

The scarlet cord has symbolic significance. Although the Scripture does not say so, the spies were acquainted with the Passover and the significance of the blood on the sides and top of the door. As the blood protected the Israelite households from death and the subsequent change of Pharoah’s mind to release them from Egypt, the scarlet cord protected Rahab and her family when Israel conquered Jericho.

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Hebrews 11:31; Joshua 6:22-23 Rahab proved her faith in God by receiving the spies and following their instructions with the scarlet cord. After the Jericho walls collapsed, what did the two spies do with Rahab and her family?

Matthew 1:5 What is the significance of Rahab’s name in this chapter?

A

pplication

“They brought out her entire family and put them in a place outside the camp of Israel” (Joshua 6:23).

She is listed in the genealogy of Jesus.

Allow 20 Minutes

James 2:25 places Rahab in the same company with Abraham: “In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction?” She sent the spies in another direction; however, her faith in God sent her in a new direction. She broke with her past of ungodliness. In doing so, she “was not killed with those who were disobedient” (Hebrews 11:31).

Rahab was intelligent and resourceful as seen in her planning for the spies. This woman of faith showed mental toughness in welcoming the spies and following through with the plan to spare her household. “ ‘What is the use of concrete if the will is weak,’ sneered Hitler after Munich in 1938 when his staff marvelled at the toughness of the abandoned Czechoslovakian fortifications” (Blaiklock, 95).

How would you rate your mental toughness in exercising faith in God?

When you received Christ as Savior, what was the most important change of direction in your lifestyle?

Personal response.

Personal response. (Some people may have dramatic changes in their life while others do not. Emphasize that God reaches to all regardless of the degree of change.)

May we follow the Lord’s instructions given to Joshua which helped him develop strong faith in God. “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it” (Joshua 1:8).

Closing Prayer

You might ask a group member to close this session.

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Heroes Are Victors, 11 Godly Not Victims

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I

Allow 10 Minutes

ntroduction

Thank God for His presence in your group. Thank Him for the wisdom and guidance He has shared in previous weeks and invite His wisdom and guidance in this session. Thank Him for each member present and for the member’s faithfulness in attendance.

Opening Prayer

Sharing Question Which of the godly heroes we have studied to this point has made the greatest impression on you?

S

elf-Awareness

Examples: Rahab and her dramatic change. Abraham and his willingness to leave his country and all to follow God. Noah’s fear of God.

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Many godly heroes have had setbacks, handicaps, poor family conditions, have been raised as slaves, treated unfairly, and so forth. Others have brought problems on themselves and reproach on the name of God. However, they did not glory in being a victim or feel sorry for themselves and sit down in sullen despair. They looked to God and moved forward in victory.

There are numerous people in history who could easily have settled into being a victim, but they chose not to do so. Edison, the great inventor, was almost totally deaf. Franklin D. Roosevelt did not let a crippling infantile paralysis prevent him from becoming the 32nd president of the United States.

Rev. John Henry Jowett once told of a little graveyard beside a church in a small village where the memory of a devoted soul, who had spent herself freely and untiringly in the service of that small community, is enshrined in a brief and touching epitaph, “She has done what she couldn’t” — Eugene A. Hessel (Tan, 945).

Name a person you know who has refused to be a victim and has become a victor. Describe.

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Personal response. (If any member would like to share, allow time for this.)

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Setbacks, failures, and troubles are often brought on us by ourselves. This does not mean that we are to give up. What assurance does II Timothy 2:13 give us?

“If we are faithless, he will remain faithful.”

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In Hebrews 11 introduces us to the Hall of Faith. In verse 32, the writer asks the question, “And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell. . . .” The writer lists six heroes we are looking at in this session. However, it is made clear there are many other godly heroes who are not listed in this chapter. The same characteristic of godly heroes in this chapter are found in many others who are not listed. Who are some of these biblical heroes who come to your mind?

S

piritual-Awareness

Examples: Jeremiah, Esther, Ruth, Job, Josiah, Nehemiah, Ezra

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets, who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions” (Hebrews 11:32-33).

Gideon was called by God when Israel was in a time of distress.

They were suffering from the oppressive rule of the Midianites.

During this time of distress, the angel of the Lord came to Gideon while he was “threshing wheat in a winepress” trying to hide it from the Midianites (Judges 6:11). The angel declared, “The LORD is with you” (Judges 6:12). The Lord declared Gideon a mighty warrior in spite of Gideon’s view of his family and himself—“My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family” (Judges 6:15). Gideon became a mighty leader and ruled as “judge.”

Barak was the son of Abinoam from Kedesh which was a tribe of Naphtali. It seems likely that Barak was a timid person. Deborah, the prophetess, sent for him and said, “The LORD, the God of Israel, commands you: ‘Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead the way to Mount Tabor’” (Judges 4:6). The victory was promised. Barak told Deborah, “If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go” (Judges 4:8). The victory was decisive for them. Barak’s and Deborah’s success is celebrated in a famous song recorded in Judges 5.

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Biblical Narrative cont.

Samson’s birth was foretold to his parents by the angel of the Lord. It was also announced that Samson would be a Nazirite, “Set apart to God from birth” (Judges 13:5). This meant “no razor may be used on his head, he could drink no fermented drink, and he could not eat anything unclean.

Although he grew up with godly influences, he chose to marry a Philistine against his parents wishes. After his wife’s death, one of his ungodly relationships was with the charming Delilah. She persuaded him to tell her the secret of his strength—a vow never to cut his hair. Samson had accomplished great feats, but after his hair was cut by Delilah while he was asleep, he lost his strength. He was turned over to the Philistines, his eyes were gouged out, and he was later placed on public display. At the closing of his life, he had one more victory. He dramatically pushed down the pillars of the Dagon temple. This caused his own death and the death of about 3,000 Philistines.

Jephthah is described as a mighty warrior. His mother was a prostitute, and he was thrown out of the family by his brothers because he was the “son of another woman” (Judges 11:2). He became a leader of restless outlaws and apparently made a name for himself.

When the Ammonites made war on Israel, the elders of Gilead asked that he be their commander. He made a foolish vow to the Lord saying, “if you give the Ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the LORD’S, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering” (Judges 11:30-31). The first to meet him was his daughter. When he laid his eyes upon her, he was in deep sorrow. She asked for two months to roam the hills. After the two months, she returned, and her father kept the vow.

David was Jesse’s youngest son. Being known for his musical ability, he was summoned to play for the emotionally ill King Saul. He advanced quickly with Saul, and his popularity made Saul very jealous. He fled for his life and had opportunities to take Saul’s life but chose not to do so. After Saul’s death, he gained support and made Jerusalem the centerpiece of all Israel. He became Israel’s most famous king. With all his successes, his life was still marred by failure. He committed adultery with Bathsheba, was responsible for Uriah’s death while trying to cover up the adultery, and was a bad example for his children. Although his life was marred by costly choices, he had a deep trust and love for God. Samuel was dedicated at birth to God’s service by his mother, Hannah. He was raised in the sanctuary by Eli the priest. He was known for reforming Israel’s idolatrous worship. He spoke up for righteousness in a polluted society. In his old age, Samuel “appointed his sons as judges for Israel” (I Samuel 8:1), but they perverted justice. The people then insisted that they have a king.

Samuel anointed Saul as the king. Saul was a failure, refusing to give God absolute obedience. David was anointed king by Samuel before Saul’s death. Samuel is remembered as a person devoted to God. 62

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Hebrews 11:32; Judges 6:1-13 The Israelites were under the oppressive power of the Midianites. What were they doing to prepare themselves?

“The Israelites prepared shelters for themselves in mountain clefts, caves and strongholds.”

The angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon and said, “The LORD is with you” (Judges 6:12). In Gideon’s reply, he spoke as a victim. What did he say?

“If the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us?” (Judges 6:13). He felt the Lord had abandoned them.

Judges 6:24 When Gideon realized it was the angel of the Lord talking to him, what did he build?

He “built an altar to the LORD there and called it ‘The LORD is Peace.’ ”

Judges 7:1-7 Gideon defeated the Midianites under the instructions of God. He became a victor with a small group of 300 men. How was this number of men determined?

Hebrews 11:32; Judges 4:1-10 Barak seems to have been a timid person, but the Lord saw strength in him. Deborah, a prophetess, was leading Israel at this time. She summoned him at God’s command to take ten thousand men and seize Sisera. How did he respond to Deborah?

Since there were too many men, the Lord instructed Gideon to “separate those who lap the water with their tongues like a dog from those who kneel down to drink” (v5). The Lord told him to take the 300 men who lapped with their hands to their mouth.

“If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go” (Judges 4:8).

It seems that Barak also saw the need for Deborah’s spiritual help. He would not allow himself to be a victim of his own timidity.

Judges 4:15-16 What was the result of Barak’s advance?

“The Lord routed Sisera . . . All the troops of Sisera fell by the sword; not a man was left.”

Hebrews 11:32; Judges 16:23-31 Samson was a special person. His birth was foretold to his parents by the angel of the Lord. As he was a Nazirite from birth, no razor was to be used on his head, and he was to live a separated life for God. Being “set apart to God from birth” (Judges 13:5) meant that his effectiveness was dependent upon his Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

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separation. Instead, he became the prodigal son of the Old Testament. His involvement with Delilah led to his ultimate downfall. The rulers of the Philistines assembled after Delilah had found the secret of Samson’s strength. To whom did they offer their sacrifice?

Dagon their god.

They called Samson from the prison to entertain them. Where did Samson request the servants to place his hands?

He asked the servant to put him where he could “feel the pillars that support the temple” (Judges 16:26).

What final request did Samson make to the Lord?

“O Sovereign LORD, remember me. O God, please strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines” (Judges 16:28).

The Lord gave Samson the power to push down the “temple on the rulers and all the people in it. Thus he killed many more when he died than while he lived” (Judges 16:30).

Samson made foolish and immature decisions and could have easily ended his life as a victim of his own doings. Instead, he ended his life in victory.

Hebrews 11:32; Judges 11:1-10 Describe Jephthah’s early family life.

When Jephthah was asked to be the commander against the Ammonites, verse 9 seems to indicate that he was still dealing with an earlier problem. What was it?

Joshua 11:29-38 Jephthah made a foolish vow to the Lord. What was it?

His mother was a prostitute. He was rejected by his brothers.

Rejection. He was concerned that if the Lord gave them victory, he would then not be their leader.

“If you give the Ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the LORD’S, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering” (vv30-31). The first to meet him when he returned was his daughter, his only child.

Although Jephthah showed signs of feeling rejection and made a foolish vow that caused him much sorrow, he is listed in the hall of faith. He was a victor, not a victim. He went on to lead the men of Gilead in victory against the Ephraimites.

Forty-two thousand Ephraimites were killed at that time (Joshua 12:4-6).

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Hebrews 11:32; I Samuel 16:1-13 Samuel was commanded by God to go and anoint one of Jesse’s sons as king. David, the eighth son, was chosen and anointed as king. I Samuel 16:7 tells what the Lord was really looking for. What was it?

“Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

David’s victory over the giant Goliath gained him recognition from Saul and the people. He rose quickly to become Israel’s most famous king. His life was filled with victories but also many heartaches. There were a number of times he could have settled into the role of a victim but he chose to be a victor. Though costly to him, he survived the ungodly relationship with Bathsheba, the devilish scheming of Uriah’s death, his lack of time with his children—all of which contributed greatly to his poor example as a father.

There are three primary qualities in David’s life that made him a victor, not a victim. The first quality is found in II Samuel 12:13. What was it?

He had a repentant heart.

The second quality is found in Acts 13:22. What was it?

He had a heart after God.

The third quality is found in I Samuel 30:6. What was it?

He “found strength in the LORD.” David encouraged himself in the LORD.

Hebrews 11:32; I Samuel 8:4-6, 12:23 Samuel was dedicated at birth to God’s service and lived a life devoted to God. Perhaps the most difficult time for him was when his sons were appointed judges and proved to be wicked. He refused to be a victim of his sons’ failures and continued in the role of a victor. When the elders came to complain about his age and his sons’ wickedness, what did he do?

What did Samuel consider a “sin against the LORD” (I Samuel 12:23)?

Hebrews 11:33 These godly heroes “conquered kingdoms, administered justice . . . shut “mouths of lions.” Daniel 6 records Daniel’s victory in the lion’s den. The reason for his victorious life is found in Daniel 6:10. What was it?

He prayed.

By “failing to pray” for his people.

He was consistent in prayer. “Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.”

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pplication

Allow 20 Minutes

As we look over these godly heroes, there is an important truth that stands out. God was there to help them regardless of the situation. It did not matter whether the problems were brought on by their own wrongdoings or otherwise. Jesus has promised, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age”(Matthew 28:20).

John Wesley preached his last sermon on February 22, 1791, at 87 years of age.

After this he grew steadily weaker. By the end of the month he was confined to his bed. One day he took out his pen to write but could not do so. “I’ll write for you, sir,” a friend offered. “Just tell me what you wish to say.”

“Say nothing, but that God is with us,” the wiry old man whispered (Hefley, 154-155).

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We have a choice to be either a victim or a victor. Write a prayer to God expressing a resolve in your heart to be a victor and not a victim regarding an area of concern in your life. If you do not have a situation you are dealing with at this time, express a prayer for a friend or loved one who needs to be a victor not a victim.

Personal response. If any member would like to share, allow time for this.

Closing Prayer

Ask one of the group members to close the session in prayer.

Session 11

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Heroes Tu rn 12 Godly Weaknesses into Strengths

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ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Thank God for His faithfulness in helping us deal with our weaknesses.

Thank Him for His love and mercy.

Ask Him for His insight as we study this week’s lesson.

Sharing Question What is the one thing about this group that you value the most?

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elf-Awareness

This opening exercise is designed to encourage supportive and affirming interaction among the group.

Encourage each one to respond.

Allow 20–25 Minutes

In Session 11 we discussed how the godly heroes in Hebrews 11 did not remain victims but became victors. In this session, we will look at how God can use our weaknesses by turning them into strengths.

We hear much about the concept of self-made people. Max Cleland, a U.S. Senator and former head of Veterans Affairs under President Jimmy Cart e r, tells his view of self-made people.

I believed in the idea of the self-made man until that grenade went off. I was laying on the battlefield without limbs. I had lost 40 percent of my body. Others came and saved my life. I see life differently now.

You can bounce back. It is possible to become strong in the broken places. You are a lot more courageous and heroic than you may think. Someone once said, “Adversity introduces a man to himself.” For some that’s crazy, but most people discover that adversity does make them stronger. I got stronger. You have to in order to survive (Brown and Spizman, 6-7).

What is your view of the self-made person concept?

Personal response. Allow time for members to share if they would like to do so.

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We all have certain strengths and weaknesses. Even in our strength, we need to recognize our weaknesses which can be overcome through Christ. In John 15:5, what does Jesus say about the self-made person concept?

“Apart from me you can do nothing.”

The old song, Just a Closer Walk With Thee, helps us keep life in proper perspective: I am weak but Thou art strong, Jesus, keep me from all wrong; I’ll be satisfied as long, As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In Christians are described by the Apostle Paul in II Corinthians 4:7 as “treasure in jars of clay.” What is our purpose in being such a vessel of clay?

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piritual-Awareness

“To show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “Who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. Women received back their dead, raised to life again. Others were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection. Some faced jeers and flogging, while still others were chained and put in prison. They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated—the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, and in caves and holes in the ground” (Hebrews 11:33-38).

These godly heroes were known for their faith in God. They conquered kingdoms (David—II Samuel 8) and administered justice (Samuel—I Samuel 12:3-23 and David—II Samuel 8:15). Promises were obtained (Joshua 21:45; I Kings 8:56). The mouths of lions were shut (Samson—Judges 14:5-6, David—I Samuel 17:34-37, Daniel—Daniel 6:22). They were able to quench the flames of fire 68

Session 12

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Biblical Narrative cont. (the three Hebrew children—Daniel 3:25). They escaped the edge of the sword (Jephthah—Judges 12:3, David—I Samuel 18:11, Elijah—I Kings 19:1-2, Elisha—II Kings 6:14-17).

Samson is an example of turning weakness into strength (Judges 16:28-30). Many of the heroes were powerful warriors (Barak— Judges 4:14-15) while others received back their dead (the widow of Zarephath—I Kings 17:17-24, the Shunammite woman—II Kings 4:17-35).

Several heroes experienced suffering. Some accepted torture and faced jeers and flogging (Jeremiah—Jeremiah 20:2; 37:15).

Others were imprisoned (Joseph—Genesis 39:20), stoned (Zechariah—II Chronicles 24:20-21), and according to tradition, Isaiah was sawed in two. Various others were killed by the sword, destitute, and mistreated. “The world was not worthy of them” (Hebrews 11:38).

Hebrews 11:33; Exodus 4:10; Daniel 1:1-8, 6:22 Moses and Daniel are among those who “through faith conquered kingdoms.” What did Moses express as his weakness when called by God?

“I am slow of speech and tongue” (Exodus 4:10). Moses became a great leader. “For no one has ever shown the mighty power or performed the awesome deeds that Moses did in the sight of all Israel” (Deuteronomy 34:12).

Daniel did not let his youth hinder him from becoming a leader for God. He was resolved to follow God with consistency. He was victorious in the lion’s den.

Hebrews 11:34; Daniel 3:16-27 The flames of fire were quenched. The three Hebrew children refused to worship Nebuchadnezzar’s image of gold.

What was their vow even if they were not delivered by God?

Hebrews 11:34; Judges 7:2 Why did the Lord have Gideon reduce the number of fighting men when he was called to fight the Midianites?

Even if God did not deliver them, they vowed not to serve other gods. They were weak in themselves to overcome this crisis. They turned to God for help.

“In order that Israel may not boast against me that her own strength has saved her” (Judges 7:2).

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Hebrews 11:34; I Corinthians 1:25-29 How does the Apostle Paul describe man’s strength when compared to God?

What does God use to shame the strong?

In I Corinthians 2:1-5, Paul says that he came to minister in “weakness and fear.” He did not use persuasive words; instead, there was “a demonstration of the Spirit’s power” (v4). Why does Paul say this was important?

In II Corinthians 12:7-10, Paul again discusses his weaknesses.

He recognized the significance of God’s grace. He said, “I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties” (v10). Why was this his delight?

Hebrews 11:35; I Kings 17:17-24; II Kings 4:17-35 The widow at Zarephath and the Shunammite woman both received their sons from death. Through Elijah and Elisha, the two sons were raised from the death.

Hebrews 11:36; Jeremiah 1:6-9, 20:2 Jeremiah was beaten and imprisoned. He followed God with faithfulness. When God called Jeremiah, he told God about his weakness. What did he say?

“The weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength” (I Corinthians 1:25).

“God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong” (I Corinthians 1:27).

“So that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power” (v5).

“For when I am weak, then I am strong” (v10).

Our weaknesses are clearly seen when trying to restore life from the grip of death.

“Ah, Sovereign LORD, . . . I do not know how to speak; I am only a child” (Jeremiah 1:7). Jeremiah saw his weakness, but God displayed His strength through this prophet.

Jeremiah was so well-thought-of that when Jesus went to Caesarea Philippi, “He asked his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ ” (Matthew 16:13). In Matthew 16:14, we notice that some thought He was Jeremiah.

Hebrews 11:37; II Chronicles 24:20-21 Why did the wicked Joash have Zechariah put to death?

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Because Zechariah told them God would not prosper them because they had forsaken the Lord. Zechariah may have been seen as weak because he did not overcome the wicked Joash; however, he was strong in the Lord.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Hebrews 11:37; Isaiah 6:1-8 Tradition asserts that the prophet Isaiah was sawed in two by the wicked King Manasseh. Isaiah 6:1-8 shows his view of his own weaknesses. What in this passage reveals this truth?

Prior to this chapter, Isaiah pronounces several woes among the people. When he saw his own weakness (“I am a man of unclean lips”), then he was ready to be sent by God. Because he saw his own unclean condition, Isaiah realized his need for God’s strength as he responded to God’s call.

Hebrews 11:38 This verse describes the greatness of these godly heroes. What was it?

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pplication

Isaiah said, “Woe to me! . . . I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:5).

“The world was not worthy of them.”

Allow 20 Minutes

There are many of us who want to do what is right in pleasing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. However, our weaknesses are often glaring. Sometimes our setbacks, poor family conditions, or other difficulties are brought on by ourselves. It may be because of our own immaturity, personal gullibility, or our inability to cope with God’s power.

Let us look at the case of Samson again. His birth was foretold to his parents by the angel of the Lord. Although he grew up with godly influences, he chose to marry a Philistine, against his parents’ wishes. After his wife’s death, one of his ungodly relationships was with the charming Delilah. She persuaded him to tell her the secret of his strength—a vow never to cut his hair. Samson had accomplished much through his physical strength, but after his hair was cut off by Delilah while he was asleep, he lost his strength.

Judges 16:23-30 records Samson’s final encounter with the Philistines which ends in victory. He was turned over to the Philistines, his eyes were gouged out and he was later placed on public display. At the closing of his life, he dramatically pushed down the pillars of the temple of Dagon. This caused his own death and the death of about 3,000 Philistines. “Thus he killed many more when he died than while he lived” (v30).

We learn much from Samson’s weaknesses and his final strength from the Lord. Concerning Samson’s experience, it has been said: (1)Sin will take you further than you want to go, (2) sin will keep you longer than you want to stay, and (3) sin will cost you more than you want to pay. It can also be said that sin will wait until you are at the zenith of your career and then publically embarrass you.

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When sin comes to destroy, there is a remedy. In Judges 16:28, “Samson prayed to the LORD, ‘O Sovereign LORD, remember me. O God, please strengthen me just once more.’ ” God answered his prayer. He remembered Samson, and in the end his weakness was turned to strength.

Write a prayer expressing to God your desire, “O Sovereign LORD, remember me.” This prayer should be about a weakness you want God to turn into a strength.

Closing Prayer

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Personal response. If any members would like to share, allow time for this.

Thank God for each person in the group. Pray for needs, frustrations, and weaknesses expressed. Pray that God will reveal Himself as strength and refuge for each group member.

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

13 Godly Heroes Look to Jesus

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ntroduction Opening Prayer

Allow 10 Minutes Thank God for each member of the group who has attended these past 12 weeks. Ask Him to use this final session to consolidate and make clear the truths you have learned. Thank Him for His presence in each believer and in your group.

Sharing Question What is one quality you value or admire in one or more members of this gro u p ?

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elf-Awareness

The opening exercise is designed to encourage group members toward positive and affirming interaction. Let someone else go first today and end with yourself.

Allow 20–25 Minutes

During the last 12 sessions, we have looked at the godly heroes listed in the Hebrews 11 Hall of Faith. We have seen the four characteristics common to all of the heroes: (1) they were people of faith, (2) they were commended by God, (3) they believed in creationism, and (4) this world was not worthy of them. As you recall, in Session 1 we more strictly defined a godly hero—a hero commended by God. In this session, the picture is a stadium or amphitheater filled with the godly heroes of Hebrews 11 being the spectators.

These godly heroes are witnessing the New Testament saints’ race of faith. These heroes are not only onlookers, but they are also examples for us.

This race we are running is the Christian race. To be in this race, one must receive Jesus Christ as Savior. This race is not a short 100-yard dash. It is a marathon with hills and valleys and calls for endurance. John Phillips says, “When tempted to give in, we need only think, ‘He’s watching.’ What a difference it makes, even in human affairs, to know that in some great contest a loved one is eagerly watching to see us win” (Phillips, Exploring Hebrews, 177). These great witnesses bear testimony to us in the race that it can be done.

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What has been the most difficulty you have faced in this race?

Examples: Rejection by Christians, poor example by myself or others, children not serving the Lord, an embarrassing sin, etc.

The key to running the Christian race is to keep our focus on Jesus. Since our primary competition in this race is the devil, our only way to be overcomers is to look unto Jesus. In this race, we are not to look back but continue to look unto Jesus.

In Luke 9:62, Jesus says, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” We are reminded by the Apostle Paul to be aware of Satan’s schemes (II Corinthians 2:11). What are some of the schemes Satan has used to distort your focus on Christ?

Examples: Unforgiveness, bitterness, greed, unhealthy relationships, lack of fellowship with other believers, etc.

Spiritual Awareness Lead–In As we conclude this great chapter, we see that godly heroes often go unnoticed by this world’s system. Godly heroes are generally “ill-treated by a world too evil to see their worth” (Hebrews 11:38, Phillips), so it is important that we understand that this world may never see our heroism. However, Jesus is watching the race.

Emphasize that godly heroes are generally unnoticed by this world.

Hebrews 11:39-40 shows once again the steadfast faith of these heroes and the all-important role of Christ to the Old and New Testament believers: “These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised [the resurrection side of the cross]. God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect.”

Verse 40 brings the saints of the Old Testament (Old Covenant) and the saints of the New Testament (New Covenant)together, unified in the person of Jesus Christ. This was God’s divine plan.

Old Testament saints . . . won divine approval as a result of their faith; but they did not receive the realization of Christ’s complete salvation nor the fulfillment of the new covenant with its personal and national blessings.

This perfection will come for both Old and New Testament saints when Christ returns to complete salvation and reign as King of kings and Lord of lords (Unger, 777).

How does Hebrews 9:15 express the relationship between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant?

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“Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.”

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

The heroes of faith looked forward to the cross of Christ; we look back to the finished work on the cross—our salvation.

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piritual-Awareness

Allow 20-25 Minutes

Biblical Narrative “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (Hebrews 12:1-3).

The writer of Hebrews points to the great heroes listed in Chapter 11 as a witness and encouragement to the first-century Jewish believers. Perhaps some were wondering if they could be faithful to the end while others may have had questions because of the trouble they were experiencing as Christians. The encouragement they had, as we do, is to look at the Hebrews Hall of Faith.

The writer paints a picture of the Christian race as a runner in a stadium. In the grandstands are the godly heroes who serve as witnesses and examples. The writer encourages the Hebrew Christian to trim down excess baggage (sin of unbelief, etc.) that impedes their progress in this race. They are encouraged to run this race with perseverance. This Christian life (likened to a runner in a race) is the divine plan of God. The Hebrew Christians, as we are also, were encouraged not to look back but to fix their gaze, to focus, on Jesus Christ. He is the great example. By faith, He “endured the cross, scorning its shame” (Hebrews 12:2). Christ has gone before us. We are to follow.

Hebrews 12:1 The writer to the Hebrews uses the figure of an amphitheater or a stadium filled with Old Testament saints. The saints are witnessing them-New Testament saints in this race of faith. The Old Testament saints are examples for us to follow.

What do you think is the dominant theme among the “great cloud of witnesses” described in Hebrews 11?

The theme is faith. These were men and women of faith. Note the often repeated phrase by faith.

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What advantage do we have over the Old Testament saints?

What kind of athletic event does the writer compare the Christian life to?

A race.

In verse 1, what three things are we to do to be effective in this race?

1. “Throw off everything that hinders” (trim down the baggage).

2. “And the sin that so easily entangles” (those things that trip us).

3. “Run with perseverance” (it is a marathon race, not a sprint).

What do you think “the race marked out for us” means?

It is the divine plan of God revealed in His word.

The Apostle Paul often likened the Christian life to a race.

How did he use the comparisons in I Corinthians 9:24-25, Galatians 5:7, and Philippians 2:16?

• There is a prize in this race. We need strict training.

• Watch for those who may “cut in on you”—hinder you from “obeying the truth” (Galatians 5:7).

• We are encouraged not to “run or labor for nothing” (Philippians 2:16).

Hebrews 12:2; Psalm 25:15 Who is the focus of this race?

Jesus

When we fix our eyes on Jesus, how does this help us with issues and struggles of life?

It helps us keep everything in the right perspective.

How does the writer describe Jesus’ involvement with our faith?

He is “the author and perfecter (finisher) of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2).

Hebrews 2:10 describes how God chose to “make the author of their [our] salvation perfect.” How did he make our salvation complete?

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Their salvation was based on the promise of the cross; ours is based on what Christ has already done.

Session 13

“Through suffering.”

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Jesus completed (endured) the race to the cross. For what two things did He run?

1.“For the joy set before him”—to glorify the father (Hebrews 12:2).

2. “Sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2). He completely fulfilled the will of God.

What did David say about his focus when trapped?

“My eyes are ever on the LORD” (Psalm 25:15).

Hebrews 12:3 When we face opposition, discouragement, or setbacks, we have encouragement: (1) We have the Old Testament saints as witnesses who are great examples, and (2) we have Jesus as our focus. And finally, verse 3 asks us to give consideration to Christ’s example. What is it?

He “endured such opposition from sinful men.” He carried the sins of the human race, something we will never do.

Why are we to consider Christ’s terrible pain of the cross?

So we “will not grow weary and lose heart.”

Note the encouragement in Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

A

pplication

There is only one way we as human beings can please God. Hebrews 11:6 tells us. What is it?

Allow 20 Minutes “Without faith it is impossible to please God.”

The entire Christian life is built on a life of faith and trust in God. Without having seen Him, we are called to place our trust in God. There is nothing mysterious about faith.

Actually, faith is an intelligent decision we make to place our trust in God for our life here on earth and the life after death. Faith has nothing to do with how we feel but what we know. We will either trust God or we will not. Living by faith is living by the Word of God. To live with the godly heroes in the Hall of Faith calls for us to yield our entire life to Christ. We are called to look unto Jesus. Paul writes, “Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him” (Colossians 2:6).

What does this verse say to you about your relationship with Christ?

We receive Christ “by grace . . . through faith”(Ephesians 2:8). We continue to live in him (day by day) “by grace . . . through faith.”

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

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Dr. Mike Chapman describes three principles of faith for living daily in Christ: 1. Faith is an affirmation. It is our AMEN that God’s Word is 100 percent truth.

2. Faith is an action. Our convictions must lead to actions. We all live what we believe, not what we say we believe. “Faith without deeds is dead” (James 2:26).

3. Faith is an attitude. It is a calmness of spirit that comes from knowing that God is actively involved in our everyday lives. Faith is an attitude of peace in the midst of the storm. It is not a Hollywood or psychological fad or something you work up but God’s goodness, wisdom, and power working in our lives.

God wants you to be one of His heroes. Summarize what God has revealed to you over the last few weeks from the study of Godly Heroes. How has your faith been strengthened?

Personal response. Allow time for members to share if they would like to do so.

May you be encouraged to live for Christ. This story emphasizes its importance.

In 1923 a group of the world’s most successful financiers met at a Chicago hotel. Present were: The president of the largest independent steel company.

The president of the largest utility company.

The greatest wheat speculator.

The president of the New York Stock Exchange.

A member of the President’s cabinet.

The president of the Bank of International Settlements.

The head of the world’s greatest monopoly.

Collectively, these tycoons controlled more wealth than there was in the United States Treasury, and for years newspapers and magazines had been printing their success stories and urging the youth of the nation to follow their examples. Twenty-five years later, let’s see what happened to them.

The president of the largest independent steel company – Charles Schwab – lived on borrowed money the last five years of his life, and died penniless.

The greatest wheat speculator – Arthur Cutten – died abroad in poverty.

The president of the New York Stock Exchange – Richard Whitney – was recently released from Sing Sing.

The member of the President’s Cabinet – Albert Fall – was pardoned from prison so he could die at home.

The president of the Bank of International Settlement – Leon Fraser – committed suicide.

The head of the world’s greatest monopoly – Ivar Kreuger – committed suicide.

All of these men had learned how to make money, but not one of them had learned how to live (Doan, 236).

“He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life” (I John 5:12).

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Session 13

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

Closing Prayer

“May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.

Amen“ (Hebrews 13:20-21).

Facilitator’s Guide: Godly Heroes Group, Turning Point, P.O.Box 22127, Chattanooga, TN 37422-2127

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References Blaiklock, E. M., Today’s Handbook of Bible Characters, Bethany House Publishers, Minneapolis, 1979.

Boyd, Frank M., Hebrews and the General Epistles, Gospel Publishing House, Springfield, 1977. _______, Old Testament—Book One, Gospel Publishing House, Springfield, 1967.

Brown, Jackson H. Jr., and Robyn Spizman, A Hero in Every Hero, Thomas Nelson, Nashville, 1996.

Davis, John J., Paradise to Prison, Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, 1975.

Doan, Eleanor, The Speaker’s Sourcebook, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, 1960.

Harris, Ralph W., The Complete Biblical Library: Volume 9: Study Bible, Hebrews—Jude, World Library Press, Springfield, 1989.

Hefley, James C., Heroes of the Faith, Moody Press, Chicago, 1963.

Lint, Gregory A., The Complete Biblical Library: The Old Testament. Volume 1: Study Bible, Genesis, World Library Press, Springfield, 1994. _______, The Complete Biblical Library: The Old Testament. Volume 2: Study Bible, Exodus, World Library Press, Springfield, 1996.

McArthur, John, Jr., Hebrews: An Expository Commentary, Moody Press, Chicago, 1983.

Mead, Frank S., 12,000 Religious Quotations, Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, 1989.

Mears, Henrietta C., What the Bible Is All About, Regal Books, Ventura, 1983.

Meier, Paul, Donald Ratcliff, and Frederick Rowe, Child Rearing, Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, 1993.

Pearlman, Myer, Daniel Speaks Today, Gospel Publishing House, Springfield, 1943.

Phillips, John, Exploring Genesis, Moody Press, Chicago, 1980. _______, Exploring Hebrews, Loizeaux Brothers, Neptune, New Jersey, 1992. _______, Exploring the Psalms Volume 3, Loizeaux Brothers, Neptune, New Jersey, 1986.

Spurgeon, Charles H., Men and Women of the Old Testament, AMG Publishers, Chattanooga, 1995.

Tan, Paul Lee, Encyclopedia of 7700 Illustrations, Assurance Publishers, Rockville, 1979.

Unger, Merrill F., Unger’s Bible Handbook, Moody Press, Chicago, 1967.

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