Bible Study Summary - Upcoming Sunday's Scriptures

Here at Lancaster First UMC, I am privileged to be part of two weekly bible study groups that study the scriptures for the upcoming Sunday worship services.

November 21 Scriptures - Jeremiah 23:1-6 & Colossians 1:11-14
Christ the King & Thanksgiving Sunday

Jeremiah 23:1-6
- Jeremiah was one of the patriarchs we focused on in August as part of the “Matriarchs & Patriarchs sermon series.
- Historical Context – Northern Kingdom (Israel) taken over by Assyria (722 BC) & Southern Kingdom (Judah) taken over by Babylonia (586 BC). Jeremiah prophesied during the Judah/Babylonian take over period. Took another 50 years before people of Judah were able to return to Jerusalem.
- Present passage is a word of “woe” toward the Judean Kings who were not caring for the people.
- Verses 5 & 6 point toward a future king who will be righteous (Jesus Christ.) This is a play on words with the name of the present and incompetent King (Zedekiah) which means, “The Lord is Our Righteousness.”
- Verses 7 & 8 look toward a 2nd exodus like event for the people of God.
- Questions from Text:
1. What are some qualities of a loving shepherd leader found in this text?

Colossians 1:11-14
- Context – Paul is writing from prison, probably in Ephesus (sea coast of modern Turkey) to the Christians in Colossae which is 100 miles inland. Paul is glad that the gospel that has been planted in Colossae is bearing fruit and growing. Paul wants them to continue to bear fruit. Since Colossae is a new church, they might not be aware of pending dangers and challenges that may be coming their way.
- Verses 11 & 12 – Paul encourages them by praying for them. Paul is being a loving shepherd to them even though he can’t be with them in person.
- Thought: In what ways can a letter or other form of communication help those in your care when you cannot be present in person?
- Specific parts of Paul’s prayer – For them to be patient, steadfast, joyful, & thankful.
- Learning to be thankful is a theme in this letter. Paul wants them to always be grateful for the extraordinary things God has done and continues to do through Jesus Christ.
- Verses 13 & 14 – Paul uses exodus language to help us remember how God has delivered us.
- Thought: How can we be reminded of all of the good things God has done and is doing?

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