Peter Busuttil (A continuation of Maltese beauty)
Facilitator: Stephen Weller
934 words, 5 minutes read time
Previous Lesson
Next Lesson
The Consequences of Sin, Christ’s Prayer for His People, Hope in God’s Word, and Walking in Wisdom
Old Testament Reading
2 Samuel 13:1–39 — The Sin of Amnon and the Revenge of Absalom
Overview:
Amnon, David’s son, became consumed with sinful desire for his half-sister Tamar. With the deceptive counsel of Jonadab, Amnon arranged to be alone with Tamar and violated her despite her pleas. Afterward, Amnon hated Tamar and cast her out in shame. David became angry but failed to administer justice, while Absalom quietly harbored hatred against Amnon for two years. Eventually, Absalom ordered his servants to kill Amnon during a feast and then fled to Geshur. The chapter reveals the tragic consequences of sin within David’s household and the ongoing fulfillment of judgment announced after David’s own sin.
Theological Themes:
• The destructive power of sinful desire
• The consequences of unaddressed sin
• Family division resulting from rebellion and revenge
Key Verse:
2 Samuel 13:22 – “And Absalom spoke to Amnon neither good nor bad, for Absalom hated Amnon, because he had violated his sister Tamar.”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- How did Amnon’s sinful desire lead to destruction?
Answer:
Amnon allowed lust to control his thoughts and actions, rejecting righteousness and compassion. His sin brought shame to Tamar, hatred within the family, and ultimately his own death. - Why was Absalom’s anger dangerous?
Answer:
Absalom allowed bitterness and revenge to grow silently in his heart for years. Instead of seeking justice through godly means, he chose murder, which deepened the brokenness within David’s family. - What lesson does this chapter teach about sin?
Answer:
Sin never remains isolated. It spreads pain, division, and suffering to others. Unrepented sin and failure to deal with wrongdoing often lead to greater destruction.
New Testament Reading
John 17:1–26 — Jesus’ Prayer for His Disciples and Future Believers
Overview:
As Jesus prepared for His arrest and crucifixion, He lifted His eyes to heaven and prayed to the Father. He prayed first for His own glorification through the cross, then for His disciples, asking the Father to protect, sanctify, and unite them in truth. Jesus also prayed for all future believers who would come to faith through the apostles’ message. He desired that His followers would be one as He and the Father are one, and that they would ultimately be with Him to behold His glory.
Theological Themes:
• The glory of Christ and the Father
• Sanctification through God’s truth
• Unity of believers in Christ
Key Verse:
John 17:17 – “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- What does Jesus mean by “sanctify them in the truth”?
Answer:
Sanctification refers to being set apart for God’s purposes and transformed into holiness. Jesus teaches that God’s Word is the truth that shapes and purifies believers. - Why did Jesus pray for unity among believers?
Answer:
Christian unity reflects the relationship between the Father and the Son and serves as a testimony to the world that Jesus was truly sent by God. - What comfort does this prayer provide believers today?
Answer:
Jesus specifically prayed for future believers, showing His continuing love, care, and intercession for all who trust in Him.
Psalms Reading
Psalm 119:81–96 — Hope in God’s Word During Affliction
Overview:
The psalmist cried out to God while enduring suffering and persecution, feeling weak and near despair. Yet despite affliction, he continued trusting in God’s promises and refused to abandon His Word. He longed for deliverance, recognized the faithfulness of God’s commandments, and declared that God’s Word is perfect and enduring beyond all earthly limits.
Theological Themes:
• Perseverance through suffering
• Confidence in God’s promises
• The perfection and endurance of God’s Word
Key Verse:
Psalm 119:89 – “Forever, O LORD, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens.”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- How did the psalmist respond to suffering?
Answer:
Though overwhelmed and discouraged, he continued clinging to God’s promises and seeking hope in His Word instead of abandoning faith. - What does verse 89 teach about Scripture?
Answer:
God’s Word is eternal, unchanging, and completely reliable. Human circumstances change, but God’s truth remains firmly established forever. - Why is God’s Word important during trials?
Answer:
Scripture provides strength, hope, wisdom, and assurance when believers face suffering, uncertainty, and opposition.
Proverbs Reading
Proverbs 16:6–7 — Mercy, Truth, and Peace
Overview:
These proverbs teach that steadfast love and faithfulness are central to turning away from sin and living wisely before God. Reverence for the Lord leads people away from evil paths, and when a person’s ways please the Lord, God is able to bring peace even with enemies. The passage emphasizes the blessings that come from walking faithfully and obediently before God.
Theological Themes:
• The importance of fearing the Lord
• Mercy and truth in righteous living
• God’s blessing upon obedient lives
Key Verse:
Proverbs 16:7 – “When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- How does the fear of the Lord help people avoid evil?
Answer:
Reverence for God produces humility, wisdom, and obedience. When people recognize God’s holiness and authority, they are motivated to turn away from sinful behavior. - What role do steadfast love and faithfulness play in spiritual life?
Answer:
They reflect God’s character and shape godly relationships. Living with mercy and truth helps guard believers from sin and promotes righteousness. - What does it mean for God to make peace with enemies?
Answer:
God can soften opposition, provide protection, and bring reconciliation according to His will when a believer walks faithfully before Him.
Anchor My Faith 
Leave a comment