The Problem of Evil

Brian Adams

Job 40

When wrestling with the problem of evil, one must recognize one's limits. None of us have the whole picture of what God is doing in the midst of our suffering. A focus on heaven will transform the way we view suffering. Remember that God suffers with you and for you. The cross is a constant reminder that God is familiar with suffering and understands any suffering we go through.

The Return of the King

Conrad Hilario

Revelation 19-20

When Jesus comes back and inaugurates the Millennial Kingdom, He will bring about true social justice, world peace and spiritual enlightenment. Nature will never again harm humans, and though mortal, the inhabitants will not suffer from sicknesses. All will celebrate with great joy. After the Millennial Kingdom closes, there will be one more rebellion which Jesus will snuff out and then comes judgment. Satan will be thrown into the lake of fire along with anyone who did not choose to ask Jesus to forgive their sins.

"Who Do You Say that I Am?"

Conrad Hilario

Mark 8:27-37

When first confronted with who Jesus is, one must make a few decisions. The first is do you believe Jesus is God's Savior? This is a personal, significant and polarizing decision. The second decision is will you entrust and devote your entire life to Jesus and His message? To paraphrase C.S. Lewis, to give up yourself for Jesus, you will find your true self and gain Jesus and everything else thrown in.

The Hope that Is Within You

Mike Woods

1 Peter 3:13-18

In a world that is fast losing hope in anything, Christians can live in such a way as to reflect the hope we have in Jesus. This is attractive to a watching world, lost in despair. The starting point is to remember our own salvation. As we make Jesus the ruler of our hearts, we will have the kind of hope that draws people's attention.

Three Responses to God's Goodness

Patrice McCormac

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Regardless of our circumstances, we are called to have three responses to God's goodness. First, we are challenged to rejoice always in Christ no matter how good or bad are the circumstances. It is a choice we make to see God at work in the midst of our circumstances. Second, we are to pray without ceasing. We are to have an ongoing conversation with God throughout the day. Third, we must give thanks in everything, but not for everything. We have only to look at the cross to see our source of thankfulness.

Where Is God?

Chris Risley

1 Samuel 4-6

The incident where the Israelites tried to use the Ark of the Covenant as a magical talisman in order to win a battle against the Philistines demonstrates the reality that God cannot be controlled by anyone. He is in control even when it does not seem so. God uses pain and suffering to get our attention so that we will turn to him. He does not want any to perish but wants all to receive eternal life.

The Justice of God

Scott Risley

2 Thessalonians 1:1-9

The suffering Christians experience from living in a fallen world will be evidence God presents in the last days when He returns to put the whole world on trial for rejecting His offer of forgiveness. God's righteousness demands He punish evil. Although Hell is an uncomfortable topic, it is real and no one goes there that did not make a choice to reject the alternative, Heaven.

Introduction to 2 Thessalonians

Conrad Hilario

2 Thessalonians 1:1-12

Paul writes this letter to the Thessalonians to address the growing persecution they were enduring, the false teachers forging letters in Paul's name, and the growing problem of laziness. God allows suffering for future evidence of His justice, and to further His kingdom, God's future justice comforts believers now. God allows persecution in order to produce spiritual growth.

Who You Really Are

Kait Casassa

2 Thessalonians 1:1-12

It's easy for people to view their mental health diagnoses or traumatic histories as their identity. This session explores biblical identity and its power for lasting change.