CPC Discussions: March 2019

Monday, March 25, 2019

Sermon Discussion Questions: Numbers 17: “Real Flower Power”

Numbers 17

Sermon/Outline Questions:

1) Following up from the previous chapter (16), we see the Israelites questioning the authority of Moses and Aaron and even wanted to go back to Egypt. In chapter 17, what do we see God doing in response to the people’s rebellion?

2) God gave the Israelites a sign on Aaron’s rod. What did that sign communicate? What did that sign demonstrate?

3) Aaron was God’s chosen mediator/priest for the people of Israel because one was needed. In what ways do we put the “me” back in mediator? Do we behave as if it our own goodness that earns God’s favor? What would not trusting in our own goodness look like in our daily lives?

4) As Christians in the 21st Century what sign do we have that shows God’s power, grace, mercy, etc? How does Christ’s resurrection “act as deterrent” in your life? The resurrection has ongoing implications in our lives. Can you reflect on specific moments when it has acted as a “deterrent”?

5) A quote from the sermon: “Grace changes us from grumblers to givers.” There was a shift in the Israelites attitude/posture toward the Lord at the end of chapter 17. How were the Israelites instructed to give and live differently as a response to God’s grace? (Looking ahead to chapters 18 & 19)

Thursday, March 21, 2019

Sermon Discussion Question: Numbers 16: “Being Consumed” (Chris Smith)

Text review:

1) In a nutshell, what is this chapter in Numbers about?

2) Who are Korah, Dothan and Abiram? What charge do they bring against Moses?

3) What is Moses’ response to Korah and his followers?

4) What does Moses instruct Korah and his followers to do and why?

From the sermon:

1) What did Chris say was at the heart/root of Koran’s claim?

2) Do you remember a time in your life where you were not living out of gratitude? Reflect back on that time for a minute. How did NOT living out of gratitude impact your relationship with others, yourself and with God?

3) God mercifully provided a way for atonement. What did that atonement system look like in Numbers? (Hint: Aaron) Who do we look to now as our High Priest? Do we see Jesus as our High Priest in our lives?

Seven Tips For Staying On Track

1. Read through the Bible together with other people.

2. There will be some passages that you may not find interesting and / or difficult to read. Remember 2 Timothy 3:16-17 as you read these passages: "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be equipped for every good work." Ask yourself why God spoke this particular passage, and how it is profitable to you.

3. Do the whole reading for each day, but look for a "best thought" for each day - something you can ponder the rest of the day, a verse to memorize, something memorable.

4. As you come the Word each morning, ask God to open your eyes to the wonders found in his word.

5. Let your prayers for others flow out of what you read. Pray and read Scripture. After you read a passage, pray that passage for yourself and for others.

6. Some readings will be long and some short. Take advantage of shorter passages by reading them carefully, reflecting, asking questions, praying for answers, engage.

7. Look for ways you can practically live out what you're reading. James 1:22, "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves."

*The above is taken from Stephen Witmer, http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/tgc/2010/12/29/two-year-bible-reading-plan/