The Bible in Context Classes

For Gateway November 2009 

THE BIBLE IN CONTEXT

The Bible in Context discussions are held in Room 350B on Sundays at 9:30 a.m.  They are open to everybody, and no previous knowledge (or attendance at previous classes) is required.

November 1, 2009        You are lukewarm           ( Laodicea)        Revelation 3: 14-22   

November 8, 2009      Never Too Late                 (Clement) Corinthians 1-12        

November 15, 2009    The Yoke of Grace           (Clement) Corinthians 13-22

November 22, 2009    Prodigal of Words                        (Clement) Corinthians 23-32

November 29, 2009    Rivalry Over Priesthood   (Clement) Corinthians 33-43

Laodicea had two water supplies, one from hot springs that were good for bathing but  intolerable to drink, and a cold water supply.  Cross-contamination could lead to lukewarm water that was undrinkable.  John compares the state of this water with the spiritual state of the Christians of Laodicea.

Clement of Rome was one of the important leaders of the end of the First Century.  Indeed, he is recognized by Catholics as the fourth Pope. Protestants have difficulties with this, but Clement does seem to have had sufficient authority to intervene in the internal affairs of a church several hundred miles away. Issues include controversy over the expulsion of church officers and a call for peace and harmony.

Trivia Questions November 2009

1.      What will the “First and the Last” do to the Christians of Laodicea?

a.      Give them the crown of life

b.    Fight with them against Satan

c.     Pray for them

d.    Spit them out of his mouth

2.      Clement cites the faith and hospitality of:

a.      Abraham

b.    David

c.     Martha

d.    Rahab

3.     Clement tells the Corinthians to give up:

a.     Eating food offered to idols

b.    Drinking

c.     Slandering

d.    Rioting 

Updates to the calendar, links to source texts, and lesson quizzes are at http://ccpc.petercombes.com