Ten Minutes for Teachers
Apr. 29, 2007
Vol. 8, Issue 5

Worship Texts:  John 10:22-30; Psalm 23; Rev. 7:9-17
Worship Theme:  The Great Ordeal
Other Texts:  Acts 9:36-43
 

Hymns for this Week:
While the Sermon text will focus on the Book of Revelation and the Sunday school classes will focus on the church’s experience in the Book of Acts, this Sunday also involves two texts that deal with God as shepherd (Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30).  These texts help shape this Sunday as “Good Shepherd Sunday,” a theme brought to us this week through song – particularly Hymn #172 – My Shepherd Will Supply My Need (The Presbyterian Hymnal).

Devotion:   
Have you ever taken your bible, opened it up and read a complete book of the bible from start to finish?  It seems daunting – especially when faced with the minutia of Leviticus, the groaning of a prophet like Ezekiel, or the mysterious imagination of The Book of Revelation. 

Today, we are more accustomed to quick snippets of information (like this publication).  We operate under the first rule of newspapers, which says that all the information of a story needs to be in the first paragraph, and if you don’t make it to the end of the story … so be it.  No one seriously reads a newspaper from start to finish. 

Still, despite our own assumptions and tendencies, the books of the bible (all 66 of them) were intended to be swallowed whole.  Even more, the original intent was that these genealogies and letters, poetry and prophecy would be read … aloud … with other people! 

And while we will not be reading all the books of the bible this Sunday (imagine what that would do to our lunch schedules!), it is worthwhile and essential to eat these books[1] … in whole, not just in part.  Doing so allows us to see themes and progressions that otherwise may remain hidden. 

For instance, our Sunday school classes have been looking into the Book of Acts the past couple of weeks, which tells a story of the dramatic rise of God’s church and mission in the world. 

Broken into pieces, Acts is powerful – full of incredible persons (Peter, Stephen, Dorcas, Barnabas) and incredible miracles.  But, taken together, these stories take on a whole new force and shape. 

As we have been walking through Acts, two prominent themes are playing out.  One is the theme of death/anger/hate/persecution … whatever you want to call it.  It is moving to squelch God’s fresh movement.  The other theme is that of new life/love/inclusion/justice.  It is moving through the disciples (and others) – a tangible example of God’s Church. 

This week’s focus text (Peter raising Tabitha from the dead in Joppa – Acts 9:36-43) is just the same kind of text:  life vs. death.  Peter responds to another call (“come to us without delay!”) and discovers Tabitha has died.  Yet, even death cannot stop God’s work, and after Peter prays, Tabitha returns to life – another example that life is stronger than death. 

God’s word truly is enough to feed us … with much left over.  We are invited to feast at the table of the Lord – wide and long. 

Something to Chew On:
Sometimes people get put off from reading the bible because they assume that they have to start with Genesis and wind their way to Revelation.  But, that can be like trying to swim an ocean after training in the kiddie pool. 

It is advisable to begin with one of the gospels.  It might even be best to read Luke then Acts (which were originally one book).  This will help you get an overall picture of Jesus’ life, mission, death and resurrection and the early mission of the church.  From there, it will be easier to get into the other letters of the New Testament.  And, it will also leave you curious to know about the other Testament that leads up to Jesus and the Church. 

Also, you are always invited to join our church’s bible study on Wednesdays at 11:00 am – especially as we prepare to read the Book of Revelation.  Even if you cannot come, feel free to read along with us – sending Jonathan or Wes questions whenever they come up.

Prayer for the day:
”To what should we devote ourselves, O God?  Turn us towards those who show us that the way to follow and the work that is holy.  May we see in women like Tabitha compassion that breaks boundaries.  May we see in men like Peter help that uplifts.  Make us bold to follow their example.  Amen.” - Seasons of the Spirit:  Ages 12-14.  Pg. 57.