Photos Roger Leroux (Alberta Canada)
Facilitator: Stephen Weller
975 words, 5 minutes read time
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God Establishes His Kingdom Through Faithfulness and Courage
Old Testament Reading
1 Kings 1:1–53 – Solomon Anointed King
Overview:
As King David grew old and weak, Adonijah attempted to seize the throne by declaring himself king without David’s approval or God’s appointment. Nathan the prophet and Bathsheba reminded David of his promise that Solomon would reign after him. David responded by publicly anointing Solomon as king, and the people rejoiced greatly. When Adonijah learned that Solomon had been established, his followers scattered, and he sought mercy by taking hold of the horns of the altar. Solomon granted him mercy, warning that his future depended upon his faithfulness.
Theological Themes:
• God’s sovereign choice in leadership
• Faithfulness to God’s covenant promises
• Mercy extended alongside justice
Key Verse:
1 Kings 1:30 – “As I swore to you by the LORD, the God of Israel, saying, ‘Solomon your son shall reign after me,’ even so will I do this day.”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- Why was Adonijah’s attempt to become king unsuccessful?
Answer:
Section 2: Acts 4:1–37 – Boldness Through the Holy Spirit - What role did Nathan and Bathsheba play in God’s plan?
Answer:
They acted with wisdom and courage to remind David of his promise concerning Solomon. God often uses faithful individuals to accomplish His sovereign purposes. - What does Solomon’s treatment of Adonijah reveal about biblical leadership?
Answer:
Solomon balanced justice with mercy. He offered Adonijah an opportunity to live faithfully while making clear that continued rebellion would bring judgment.
New Testament Reading
Acts 4:1–37 – Boldness Through the Holy Spirit
Overview:
After healing the lame man, Peter and John were arrested by the Jewish leaders for preaching that Jesus had risen from the dead. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter boldly proclaimed that salvation is found only through Jesus Christ. Unable to deny the miracle, the authorities threatened them and released them. The believers gathered in prayer, asking not for safety but for boldness to continue preaching. God answered by shaking the place where they met and filling them anew with the Holy Spirit. The church demonstrated remarkable unity, sharing their possessions so that no one among them was in need, and Barnabas became an example of generous service.
Theological Themes:
• Bold witness through the power of the Holy Spirit
• Salvation found only in Jesus Christ
• Unity and generosity within the body of Christ
Key Verse:
Acts 4:12 – “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
Psalm 124:1–8 – Our Help Is in the Lord
- Why were Peter and John able to speak so boldly?
Answer:
Their courage came from the Holy Spirit rather than from human ability. Though ordinary men, they had been with Jesus and were empowered by God to proclaim the gospel. - What makes Acts 4:12 such an important verse?
Answer:
It clearly teaches that Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation. Forgiveness of sins and eternal life are found exclusively through faith in Him. - How did the early church demonstrate genuine Christian fellowship?
Answer:
The believers willingly shared their resources to care for one another. Their unity reflected transformed hearts and showed the practical outworking of Christ’s love.
Psalms Reading
Psalm 124:1–8 – Our Help Is in the Lord
Overview:
David reflects on the many dangers Israel had faced and acknowledges that without the Lord’s intervention, the nation would have been overwhelmed by its enemies. Using vivid images of floodwaters and traps, the psalm celebrates God’s deliverance and protection. The passage concludes with a confident declaration that true help comes from the Lord, the Creator of heaven and earth.
Theological Themes:
• God’s faithful protection
• Deliverance from overwhelming danger
• Confidence in the Lord as our helper
Key Verse:
Psalm 124:8 – “Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- What is the main message of Psalm 124?
Answer:
The psalm reminds God’s people that their survival and victories come from the Lord alone. Without His intervention, they would have been destroyed. - Why does the psalm compare danger to floodwaters and traps?
Answer:
These images illustrate how quickly and completely people can be overcome without God’s protection. The Lord rescues His people from dangers they cannot escape by themselves. - How can believers apply the final verse today?
Answer:
Christians can face trials with confidence, knowing that their ultimate help comes not from human strength but from the sovereign Creator who faithfully watches over His people.
Proverbs Reading
Proverbs 16:24 – The Power of Gracious Words
Overview:
This proverb teaches that kind and gracious speech brings blessing to both the speaker and the hearer. Pleasant words encourage, strengthen relationships, and promote emotional and spiritual well-being. Godly wisdom is reflected not only in what is said but also in the manner in which it is spoken.
Theological Themes:
• The wisdom of gracious speech
• The healing influence of kind words
• Godly character expressed through communication
Key Verse:
Proverbs 16:24 – “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.”
Discussion Questions with Answers:
- Why are gracious words compared to a honeycomb?
Answer:
In the ancient world, honey was valued for both its sweetness and its healing properties. Likewise, kind and wise words refresh the heart and bring encouragement to others. - How do our words affect those around us?
Answer:
Words have the power to build up or tear down. Gracious speech can strengthen faith, restore hope, and promote peace within families, churches, and communities. - How can believers develop gracious speech?
Answer:
By allowing God’s Word to shape their hearts and by depending on the Holy Spirit for wisdom and self-control. A heart transformed by Christ will increasingly produce words that honor God and bless others.
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