Title: The Doctrine of Eschatology

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Overview: Eschatology is the study of future things and God's plan for the end of the age. While Christians have different views about the timing and details of future events, Scripture clearly teaches that Jesus Christ will return. Paul wrote to encourage believers who were grieving and uncertain about the future. Rather than becoming consumed with speculation, Christians are called to place their hope in the certainty of Christ's return and the promise that all who trust in Him will be with Him forever. The priority of eschatology is not predicting every detail of the future but living faithfully in light of Christ's coming.

Main Points:

• The Popularity
• The Positions
  • Postmillennial
  • Premillennial
  • Amillennial
• The Priority

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What promise does God give believers about the future?
• Why can we trust that Jesus will keep His promises?
• How can knowing Jesus is coming again help us live for Him today?

For Students & Adults

• Why do you think discussions about the end times often generate so much interest among Christians?
• How can believers maintain unity when they hold different views about future events?
• How does the promise of Christ's return shape the way you approach everyday life?

Application: Spend time this week reading 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18. Thank God for the hope believers have in Christ. Ask yourself whether your focus is on debating the details of the future or faithfully living for Jesus today. Look for one practical way to live with greater anticipation of Christ's return.

Scripture: John 4

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Jesus healed a boy who was very sick. Jesus did good things like healing, but He came to do something even better. Jesus came to take away sin and bring us to be with God forever.

Kids – We all are dead in our sins, but Jesus provided the way to save us by dying for our sin and rising again. Everyone who repents and trusts in Him is saved from death and will live forever with God.

Students – Jesus responded to those who came to Him in faith for physical healing. In a greater way, all who come to Jesus for salvation from sin are forgiven and restored with God.

Adults – Jesus’s power to heal from afar points to His authority over all. That authority reveals itself in His victory over sin and death through His crucifixion and resurrection. We merely need to have faith in Him.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why did the official believe Jesus before he saw that his son was healed?
• What does this story teach us about trusting Jesus?
• How can you show faith in Jesus this week?

For Students & Adults

• What stands out to you about the official's faith in John 4?
• Why is it sometimes difficult to trust God's Word before seeing the results?
• How does this miracle point us to the greater salvation Jesus offers?

Title: The Lord's Day

Scripture: Hebrews 10:22-25

Overview: The book of Hebrews was written to encourage believers to remain faithful to Christ. In Hebrews 10:22–25, Christians are challenged to draw near to God, hold firmly to their faith, and encourage one another through regular gathering and worship. These verses remind us that the Lord’s Day is more than a routine; it is a gift from God that strengthens believers and points us toward faithful living.

Main Points:

• The Commandment – God calls believers to gather together in worship and fellowship.
• The Change – Regular worship shapes our hearts, priorities, and spiritual growth.
• The Commitment – Following Christ requires a consistent commitment to gathering with God’s people.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why do you think God wants His people to gather together regularly?
• How can attending church help you grow in your relationship with Jesus?
• What is one way you can encourage someone at church this week?

For Students & Adults

• What does Hebrews 10:22–25 teach about the importance of gathering with other believers?
• How has consistent participation in worship and fellowship helped you grow spiritually?
• What obstacles can keep people from gathering with the church, and how can believers overcome them?

Application: Evaluate your commitment to worship, fellowship, and encouragement within the church. Ask God to help you make gathering with His people a priority and to use you to strengthen the faith of others.

Scripture: John 4

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Jesus offered the woman living water, which is the Holy Spirit. When we trust in Jesus and receive the Holy Spirit, we have life with God forever.

Kids – Jesus pointed out the Samaritan woman’s sin so that she could believe He is the Messiah. The Holy Spirit shows us our sin so that we might turn away from it and turn to Jesus to be saved. Anyone who trusts in Jesus receives the Holy Spirit and eternal life.

Students – Jesus told the Samaritan woman that a day was coming when worshipers would not focus on the physical location of their worship, but they would worship God in Spirit and truth. Because of Jesus’s death and resurrection, our worship is no longer confined to geography. We worship Jesus as the Savior of the whole world, wherever we are.

Adults – Jesus crossed barriers to share the truth of Himself and the gospel. As believers today, we are to do the same, taking the gospel of Jesus to the ends of the earth.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why was the Samaritan woman surprised that Jesus spoke with her?
• What did Jesus mean when He talked about “living water”?
• How does this story show that Jesus loves and welcomes all people?

For Students & Adults

• What barriers did Jesus cross in order to reach the Samaritan woman?
• What does this passage teach about true worship?
• How can you intentionally share the hope of Jesus with someone who may feel overlooked or excluded?

Title: The Ordinances of the Church

Scripture: Matthew 26:26–30; Matthew 28:18–20

Overview: Jesus gave the church two ordinances to faithfully practice: baptism and the Lord’s Supper. These ordinances do not save us, but they visibly proclaim the gospel and remind believers of Christ’s work. Baptism identifies a believer with Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. The Lord’s Supper calls believers to remember Christ’s sacrifice and anticipate His return. Together, these ordinances strengthen the church and point people to Jesus.

Main Points:

• The Purposes of the Ordinances
• The Practice of the Ordinances

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why do you think Jesus gave His church baptism and the Lord’s Supper?
• What do baptism and the Lord’s Supper teach us about Jesus?
• How can you remember what Jesus has done for you this week?

For Students & Adults

• Why do you think God gave believers visible reminders like baptism and the Lord’s Supper?
• How do these ordinances help keep the gospel central in the life of the church?
• In what ways can practicing these ordinances strengthen your faith?

Application: Spend time thanking Jesus for His sacrifice and salvation. If you have never been baptized after trusting Christ, consider taking that next step of obedience.

Scripture: John 3

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Now that Jesus was here, John’s job was done. John was happy to step aside so Jesus could tell people about God and His kingdom.

Kids – John pointed people to believe in Jesus as the Messiah. When people believe in Jesus as the Messiah, they receive eternal life and can point others to believe in Jesus too!

Students – Jesus showed us how to decrease when He lowered Himself in obedience to the Father’s will and came to earth as a human. He took on our sin and paid our debt so that we could have right relationship with the Father and forgiveness for our sin. Jesus pointed all glory to the Father and took on the role of a servant.

Adults – Jesus is the Messiah and God the Son, coming from above to give eternal life to those who believe in Him, so He is worthy to be put first in our lives.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why was John happy for people to pay attention to Jesus instead of him?
• What does it mean to believe in Jesus?
• How can you point someone to Jesus this week?

For Students & Adults

• What makes it difficult to consistently point people toward Jesus instead of ourselves?
• What areas of your life need to better reflect Jesus’ importance and authority?
• How does remembering Jesus’ humility challenge the way you live?

Title: The Doctrine of the Church

Scripture: Colossians 1:17-18

Overview: The church is more than a building or an event we attend each week. Scripture teaches that the church is the body of Christ, created by God for His glory and the spread of the gospel. Jesus is the head of the church, and through Him, believers are united together for worship, discipleship, fellowship, ministry, and evangelism. Even through hardship and persecution, God continues to build His church and promises a future where His people will be with Him forever.

Main Points:

• The Foundation of the Church
  • Promised
  • Purchased
  • Proclaimed
  • Persecuted
• The Function of the Church
  • Worship
  • Discipleship
  • Fellowship
  • Ministry
  • Evangelism
• The Future of the Church

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why is Jesus the most important part of the church?
• What are some ways people serve and help others at church?
• Why does God want Christians to gather together?

For Students & Adults

• Why is it important to remember that the church belongs to Jesus?
• Which function of the church stands out most to you right now, and why?
• How can you personally help strengthen and encourage the church this week?

Application: Choose one intentional way to engage more deeply in the life of the church this week. Attend faithfully, encourage someone, serve in a ministry, invite someone to church, or spend time praying for your church family.

Scripture: John 3

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Jesus is God’s one and only Son who came to the world to save sinners. When we trust in Jesus, He forgives our sins, and we have life with God forever.

Kids – Nicodemus was a religious leader, but he needed to be born again to enter the kingdom of God. Jesus shared how the Spirit causes people to be born again to new life. Anyone who believes in Jesus will be born again and receive eternal life.

Students – Jesus taught that new birth, not religious activity, is how a person enters the kingdom of God and receives eternal life. New birth is given from God the Father through faith in God the Son as a work of God the Spirit. Because of God’s love, we are no longer condemned because of our sin, but we have been given eternal life in Christ.

Adults – Because of His love, God sent His Son, Jesus, to sacrifice His life for us so that we might be born again and have eternal life.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What did Jesus tell Nicodemus he needed in order to enter God’s kingdom?
• Why did Jesus come into the world?
• How can someone receive eternal life?

For Students & Adults

• Why is salvation more than simply trying to be a good person?
• What does John 3 teach us about God’s love for the world?
• How should new life in Christ change the way we live each day?

Title: The Doctrine of Salvation

Scripture: Romans 10:9-13

Overview: Salvation is at the center of the gospel and the story of God’s redemption. Throughout Scripture, we see God pursuing sinful people with grace and providing the only way for them to be rescued through Jesus Christ. Romans 10 reminds us that salvation is not earned by good works or religious effort. It is received by faith in Jesus. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus makes it possible for anyone who calls on Him to be saved.

Main Points:

• History of God's Redemption
• Heresies of God's Redemption
• Holiness of God's Redemption
  • Justification
  • Sanctification
  • Glorification

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What does it mean to be saved?
• Why can’t we save ourselves from sin?
• What did Jesus do so we could be forgiven?
• What does it mean to trust in Jesus?
• How does salvation change the way we live?

For Students & Adults

• Why is salvation such an important doctrine for Christians to understand?
• What are some common misunderstandings people have about salvation?
• Why is salvation only possible through Jesus?
• How have you personally experienced God’s saving grace?
• Which part of salvation stands out most to you right now: justification, sanctification, or glorification?

Application: Take time this week to thank God for your salvation. Reflect on how the gospel has changed your life and look for opportunities to share the hope of Jesus with someone else.

Scripture: John 2:13-25

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Jesus came to save sinners. He did it by dying on the cross and coming back to life on the third day. When we trust in Him, God forgives our sins.

Kids – Jesus showed His desire to honor God by cleansing the temple of sinful practices. All sin offends God’s glory and will be punished. Jesus took the punishment our sin deserves so that anyone who trusts in Him will be cleansed of sin.

Students – The Passover, along with the temple and perpetual sacrifices, revealed God’s desire to be with His people and the way they could be made right with Him. These signs pointed to the greater way that God would restore people to Himself through Christ. All who trust in Jesus are forgiven and made right with God forever.

Adults – In purifying the temple, Jesus revealed His authority as well as pointed to His future death and resurrection.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why was Jesus upset when He went into the temple?
• What does this story teach us about God?
• Why is worship important?
• How does Jesus make us clean from sin?
• What are ways we can honor God in our everyday lives?

For Students & Adults

• What does Jesus cleansing the temple teach us about His character?
• Why does God care deeply about true worship?
• What distractions or sinful attitudes can keep us from worshiping God sincerely?
• How does Jesus’ death and resurrection make us right with God?
• What does it look like to honor Jesus with your whole life?

Title: The Doctrine of Man

Scripture: Genesis 1:26-27

Overview: At the very beginning of creation, God makes a clear distinction between humanity and the rest of what He created. Men and women are uniquely formed in His image, designed with purpose, value, and responsibility. But while humanity begins as the pinnacle of God’s creation, sin distorts that design—leaving us in need of redemption and restoration that only God can provide.

Main Points:

• The Pinnacle of God’s Glorious Creation
  Humanity is uniquely created in God’s image, set apart with identity, purpose, and intentional design.
• The Problem of God’s Corrupted Creation
  Sin enters the world and fractures what was once perfect, distorting our relationship with God and our understanding of who we are.
• The Potential of God’s Redeemed Creation
  Through redemption, God restores what was broken, giving us new life and the ability to reflect His image as we were always meant to.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What does it mean that God made you in His image?
• How are people different from animals or the rest of creation?
• Why do we sometimes make wrong choices?
• How does Jesus help us become who God created us to be?

For Students & Adults

• How does being created in the image of God shape your identity and worth?
• In what ways do you see the effects of sin in your life or in the world around you?
• Why is it important to understand both the dignity and the brokenness of humanity?
• How does redemption in Christ restore our purpose and identity?

Application: Take time this week to reflect on your identity—not based on performance, culture, or comparison—but on the truth that you are created in God’s image and redeemed through Christ. Ask God to help you live in that identity daily.

Scripture: John 2:1-11

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Jesus did miracles to show that He is God the Son. Jesus’ followers who saw His first miracle believed in Him. Jesus wants us to believe in Him too.

Kids – Jesus changed water into wine, revealing His glory and showing that He is God. Like the disciples, we can believe in Jesus. Those who trust in Jesus are saved from their sins and changed to become more like Jesus.

Students – From the beginning of Jesus’s earthly ministry, the people recognized that He was different. Jesus performed miracles to fulfill the purpose of His earthly ministry and to show that He is the Son of God, the One who came to proclaim and provide salvation.

Adults – Jesus is the Creator God and can perform miracles to reveal His glory. His greatest miracle is seen in His resurrection, conquering death and sin for our salvation.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What happened at the wedding when they ran out of something?
• What did Jesus do?
• What does this miracle show us about who Jesus is?
• How can you trust Jesus in your life?

For Students & Adults

• Why do you think Jesus chose this moment for His first miracle?
• What does this miracle reveal about Jesus’ identity and mission?
• How have you seen Jesus meet needs in your own life?
• In what ways is your life being transformed by Him?

Title: The Doctrine of God

Scripture: Genesis 1:1

Overview: The Bible opens with a bold and foundational truth: God exists, and He is the Creator of all things. Before anything else is introduced, Scripture points us to who God is. Understanding God rightly shapes everything about how we live, think, and relate to Him.

Main Points:

• God Is Introduced
  From the very first verse, God is revealed as eternal, powerful, and sovereign over all creation.
• God Is Incarnate
  God did not remain distant—He stepped into our world through Jesus, making Himself known in a personal and tangible way.
• God Is Imparted
  Through the Holy Spirit, God dwells within believers, guiding, strengthening, and transforming us from the inside out.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Who is God, and what did He create?
• Why is it important that God wants us to know Him?
• How can we learn more about God?

For Students & Adults

• Why does Genesis 1:1 matter for your worldview and daily life?
• What does it mean that God revealed Himself instead of remaining unknown?
• How have you personally experienced God’s presence in your life?

Application: Take time this week to intentionally grow in your understanding of who God is. Spend time in His Word, reflect on His character, and ask Him to help you know Him more deeply—not just intellectually, but personally.

Scripture: John 1

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Jesus came to be our King. He died on the cross and rose again to rescue us from our sins. Jesus calls us to follow Him and be His disciples.

Kids – Jesus still calls people to follow Him today as His disciples. Everyone who repents and trusts that Jesus died and rose again for their sins is His disciple. Jesus is worth following, no matter what we have to leave behind.

Students – Jesus came into the world to call sinners to repentance and to lay down His life on their behalf. Likewise, as His followers, we are to tell others about Jesus and call on them to turn from their sins and trust in Jesus.

Adults – Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. He is also the Messiah, the Son of God, the King of Israel. He calls people to follow Him, and believers, likewise, should call on others to come and see Jesus.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What does it mean to follow Jesus?
• Why is Jesus worth following, even when it’s difficult?
• How can you tell others about Jesus this week?

For Students & Adults

• What does it truly mean to follow Jesus as Savior, God, and King?
• How does following Jesus change your purpose and priorities?
• Who in your life needs an invitation to “come and see” Jesus?

Title: The Doctrine of God’s Word

Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16

Overview: God’s Word is not simply a helpful guide—it is breathed out by God Himself. Because it comes from Him, it is trustworthy, complete, and active in our lives. Scripture reveals who God is, what He has done, and how we are to live, equipping us to follow Him with confidence and obedience.

Main Points:

• God’s Inspired Word
  • Precise
  • Profitable
• God’s Inclusive Word
  • Creation
  • Canon
  • Conclusion
• God’s Instructional Word
  • Promising
  • Purposeful
  • Powerful

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What does it mean that the Bible comes from God?
• How can the Bible help you make the right choices?
• What is one thing you can learn about God from the Bible?

For Students & Adults

• Why is it important that Scripture is inspired by God?
• Which aspect of God’s Word (inspired, inclusive, instructional) do you need most right now? Why?
• How have you seen God’s Word shape your decisions or perspective?
• What would change in your life if you treated Scripture as completely trustworthy every day?

Application: This week, spend time in God’s Word each day with intention. Ask: What is God teaching me? What needs to change? Choose one truth or promise and actively live it out in your daily decisions.

Scripture: Matthew 4; Mark 1; Luke 4

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Jesus always did the right thing. He died on the cross to rescue us from sin. When we are tempted to sin, we can ask Jesus to help us say no to sin.

Kids – Like us, Jesus experienced temptation. But unlike us, Jesus never sinned. When we repent and believe Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins and rose again, God credits us with Jesus’ perfect life.

Students – Jesus stepped into our world and overcame the temptation Adam did not overcome. Jesus showed He is fully obedient to the Father. He is the only One worthy of undoing the consequences of Adam's sin and bringing blessing to all people (Genesis 12:3). Jesus’s life of obedience led Him to the cross, where He conquered sin and death as our Savior.

Adults – Jesus was tempted as we are, yet He resisted the devil’s temptations and remained without sin. Thus, He was the blameless sacrifice needed to atone for our sins.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What did Jesus do when He was tempted?
• How can you ask Jesus to help you when you are tempted?
• What is one Bible verse you can remember when you need help?

For Students & Adults

• What can we learn from how Jesus responded to temptation?
• Why is Scripture such a powerful weapon against temptation?
• What are some common temptations you face, and how can God’s Word help you respond?
• How does Jesus’ victory over sin give you hope in your own struggles?

Title: When All Our Doubts Are Gone

Scripture: Luke 24:13-35

Overview: On the road to Emmaus, two followers of Jesus wrestled with confusion and disappointment after His crucifixion. As they walked, Jesus joined them—though they didn’t recognize Him at first. Through the Scriptures, He revealed the truth about Himself. In a simple moment of fellowship, their eyes were opened, their doubt disappeared, and their hearts were set on fire with renewed faith.

Main Points:

• Encounter with the Savior
• Examination of the Scriptures
• Experience of a Lifetime

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Have you ever felt confused about something? What helped you understand it?
• Why didn’t the two people recognize Jesus at first?
• How can reading the Bible help us when we feel unsure?

For Students & Adults

• What doubts or questions have you experienced in your faith?
• Why do you think Jesus used Scripture to reveal Himself instead of immediately showing who He was?
• How does God’s Word bring clarity during seasons of confusion or disappointment?
• When have you experienced a renewed understanding of who Jesus is?

Application: When doubt arises, don’t distance yourself from God—draw closer. Spend time in His Word, invite Him into your questions, and trust that He is working even when you don’t yet see clearly.

Scripture: Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3; John 1

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Jesus never did anything wrong, but He was baptized like sinners are baptized. People are baptized to show they have turned from their sins to follow Jesus.

Kids – Jesus obeyed His Father by being baptized. Later in life, He obeyed His Father by dying on a cross for our sins and rising again, so that all who trust in Him will receive eternal life.

Students – Jesus completely obeyed God and identified with sinful humans by being baptized. His baptism points to His death on the cross and to His resurrection from the grave. For those of us in Christ, the words spoken over Jesus at His baptism are also true of us: We are the Father’s beloved children with whom He is pleased.

Adults – Jesus needed to be fully God and fully human to be able to save humanity. As the second Person of the one triune God, He humbled Himself to dwell among us and to identify Himself with sinful humanity, yet He was without sin.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why was it special that Jesus chose to be baptized?
• What does baptism show others about following Jesus?
• How can you obey God this week?

For Students & Adults

• Why was it important for Jesus to be baptized even though He was without sin?
• What does Jesus’ baptism teach us about humility and obedience?
• How does understanding who Jesus is (fully God and fully man) strengthen your faith?
• In what areas of your life is God calling you to greater obedience?

Holiness as God’s people: Pray that as those united with Christ in His resurrection, we would walk in newness of life, not letting sin rule over us, but we would instead offer ourselves to God, as those who are alive from the dead.

Humility as God’s people: Pray that as a church our eyes would never be upon ourselves or our own efforts, but we would always recognize and depend on God and His gift of grace through faith.

Unity as God’s people: Pray that the Lord would build unity in our church as we recognize Jesus’ costly sacrifice to make us one body.

Obedience as God’s people: Pray that we would always be reminded that we exist for God. As His people indwelt by His Spirit, may we always be led by the Spirit to accomplish His purposes for His church.

Wisdom, strength, unity and God’s guidance for: 

• The pastoral leadership and staff
• The Transition Team
• The Lead Pastor Search Team

Looking for additional prayer resources? Visit:

• connectionpoint.tv/fast
• connectionpoint.tv/pastorsearch

The women at the tomb were expecting to encounter death when they went to finish preparing the body of Jesus for burial. He was their Lord, and their devotion to Him was evident—not only had they accompanied Jesus from Galilee during His ministry before His crucifixion, but they were still compelled by their faithfulness to Him, even in His death.

Surprisingly, they could enter the tomb because the large stone at its door was rolled away, but inside, it was empty! Obviously, there would be some confusion. The angel then had to remind them of what Jesus had told them about His coming betrayal, death, and resurrection on the third day.

So while the women did come expecting death, they instead encountered life! Confusion led to joy, and the women were given a message to tell the disciples: He is risen! The gospel of Mark tells us that when the women left the tomb, they trembled and were amazed.

As we meditate on the resurrection of Jesus today, are you amazed? Are you astonished by what God has done in raising Jesus from the dead?

It may increase your awe to consider that you were dead in sin and separated from God, yet Jesus’ resurrection secures the hope of eternal life and future bodily resurrection for the believer (1 Corinthians 15:20-23). It may increase your awe to meditate on the truth that the life of Christ in you is your hope of glory. (Colossians 1:27)

Like the women at the tomb needed to remember what Jesus had spoken to them, we need to always be reminded of these truths from His Word, not just on Resurrection Sunday, but every day of the year. Let us not forget that the reality of Jesus’ resurrection is the basis of our faith, our eternal hope and our joy today!

Father, thank You for Jesus Christ and Your plan of salvation offered by way of His death, burial, and resurrection. Thank You that because of Christ, we no longer have to remain in sin and death and separation from You. Please help us to live in dependence upon the life of Christ in us as we rest in the future hope of glory Christ has secured for His people. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Joseph, a disciple of Jesus gained permission from Pilate to take away Jesus’ body to prepare it for the grave. As per burial custom of the Jews with high status or royalty, Jesus’ body was bound in a mixture of myrrh, aloes, and spices weighing about seventy-five pounds. His body was taken to a tomb in a garden in which no dead body had laid. Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection showed that our old self was to be crucified with him in order that the body may die, and that our soul and spirit would no longer be enslaved to sin, for who has died to sin has been set free and given newness in Christ and new life. 

Jesus came to earth to (1) be an example to us in how to live, and (2) serve as the perfect sacrifice as payment for our sins. To receive this free gift, we’re called to acknowledge our sinfulness, accept Christ’s sacrifice for us, and repent of sin as we pursue a life acknowledging Jesus as the Ruler of it. Romans 6:11 reminds us to consider ourselves dead to sin and alive to God.

Today, as we remember why Christ had to come to earth, live the perfect life He did, and die for us because of our sinfulness, we focus specifically on the cost of our sin and the price Jesus paid so that we could live. In response, we are to live as new creations in Christ, and not continue in our old, sinful ways. Galatians 2:20 emphasizes that we have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer us who live, but Christ who lives in us. The life we live now, we live in faith in our God who gave Himself for us to redeem our brokenness.

Lord, we praise You, and we thank You for Your goodness and mercies that are new each day. We thank You for what You did on the cross, and that we get to partake in Your resurrection work as You have made us new creations. Thank You for being faithful and never giving up on us. God, we honor and glorify all that You are. Help us turn against temptation and wicked ways and follow You daily. Help us to always be on guard and prepare for the enemy. Help us to have courage to share Your Word and to love others. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Put yourself at this scene for a moment: On the day that Jesus died, from around noon to 3:00 in the afternoon, the sky went dark. Not a storm or passing cloud, but a heavy unsettling darkness that covered the earth. The same voices that shouted for Jesus’ crucifixion before, still lingered. Many misunderstood this moment as it was thought that the calling of Elijah would initiate the coming of the Messiah. So there was even some anticipation here to see what would happen. But the crowd was mistaken, because this was the Messiah, slowly suffocating on the cross in front of them. To followers and family, this seemed like the end. Jesus cried out one last time, and at that, He gave up His spirit and His body went limp. Creation responded: the earth shook, the dead rose from their graves, and the temple veil, that was the barrier between us and our holy perfect God, was torn in two.

However, we know this moment was not defeat. This was the perfect picture of God’s love poured out for us so that we could be redeemed. Every step in Jesus’ ministry and up to the cross, every word spoken and sick healed, every lash across His back, every nail through His limbs. They were all culminating in this moment—the payment for our sins and the redemption of our souls. What may have felt like the end to many would become the greatest beginning the world has ever known.

The cross shows us the truth that Jesus was never a victim. Jesus stated in John 10, before the cross even happened, that He is the Good Shepherd, who laid down His life willingly for His sheep. No one took it from Him, He gave it for us—for you. If the world tells us suffering is meaningless or that loss is final, the cross proves otherwise. God can redeem even the darkest moments, whether we always understand or see how. If Jesus can face death for us, we can step into obedience, mercy and love—even when it’s costly or misunderstood by the world.

Father God, thank You for the cross. For giving Your life willingly, for loving me even when I know I don’t deserve it. Help me to trust You with every part of my life, to surrender what I hold tightly, and to live in the freedom and hope Your sacrifice made possible. May my heart never forget the depth of Your love and may my life reflect the obedience, courage, and mercy You showed on the cross. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This passage gives us a clear picture of the suffering and humiliation Jesus endured on His way to the cross. Jesus, the Lamb of God, was stripped, dressed in a scarlet robe, and given a reed to hold as a mock scepter. The soldiers taunted Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” with cruel sarcasm. Then they struck Him and led Him away to be crucified.

Jesus took upon Himself the punishment and humiliation that we rightly deserved. Every wound, every moment of suffering, and every act of shame He endured was done with us in mind. As Hebrews 12:2 says, “keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

Because Jesus bore the consequences of sin owed to us, those who place their trust in Him can receive forgiveness, be made right with God, and experience a restored relationship with Him.

God, as we reflect on the suffering Jesus endured for us, help us to live in a way that brings honor to Your great name. Help us remember the deep and immeasurable love You have shown us by sending Your Son to die in our place. Though we do not deserve Your love, we are incredibly grateful to be welcomed into Your family. We place our trust in You and declare our love for You, Jesus. Amen.

When Jesus is arrested, He is questioned by the high priest and then by Pilate. Jesus stays silent except to affirm who He is. He didn’t fight back or try to defend Himself. He didn’t even acknowledge the false accusations against Him.

Jesus could have used these trials as moments to display His greatness and His glory, but He chose to remain silent to (1) fulfill Old Testament prophecy, and (2) accomplish the greater mission of going to the cross to serve as payment for our sins.

Paul encourages the church in Philippi to have the same mindset as Christ. That mindset being to consider others more important than ourselves, and to keep the bigger picture of God’s story in mind as we go through life.

As followers of Jesus, we are to be witnesses to the world, especially when things don’t seem to be going our way. We can choose to follow Jesus’ example, and show the world we’re living for the King of kings and His mission... or we can live for ourselves, for our own comforts, and our own agendas. 

Lord, I am sorry for the times that my reactions have not brought You glory. Please help me to rely on You to strengthen me in times of trial. Help me to remember that everything here fails in comparison to what’s in store when we enter into Your glory. I pray that my life would be a reflection of Your grace and mercy and in that, others will be drawn to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

It is not surprising that on the eve of the crucifixion we find Jesus baring His soul in prayer. When you study His life, you discover He is our example of faithful praying. We find Him praying at His baptism, withdrawing from the crowds to pray before choosing His disciples, at the Mount of Transfiguration, and in the upper room before taking bread and the cup; however, this prayer in Gethsemane is one like no other, as He is wrestling and agonizing with His fate of imminent crucifixion.

His cry was, “if this cup can pass from me, let it be, but not my will but Thine be done.” It’s this prayer that settles His soul.

It’s in this prayer, we see the humanity of Jesus. Jesus was tempted as we are, but His pursuit of accomplishing the Father’s will in this mission of redemption could and would not fail. The victory would be won at Calvary; however, the victory at Calvary was preceded by His victory in Gethsemane.

Three truths we can glean from this passage:

1. In Jesus’ personal agony of the burden He was bearing, He resorted to prayer. The antidote for anxiety and fear is prayer. Our prayer-promise (1 Peter 5:7), says we can cast all our cares upon Him for He cares for us.
2. While Jesus is fully aware of the mission before Him, He still needs His inner circle of friends with Him, though ultimately, He would die alone. His desire on this night of agony was to be with His closest friends. We all need friends in our darkest hours.
3. Prayer can prepare us to face our fears. The ultimate victory was won at Calvary as Jesus sacrificed His lifeblood atoning for our sins, it was still prayer that paved the way for this ignominious act of love.

Jesus, thank You for taking on my sins on the cross. Your Word makes it obvious  that You didn’t want to endure the cross, but You also knew it to be the only way to redeem us. So thank You for enduring the punishment I deserved. Help me to live  with Your mission in mind and to also place my own agendas to the side. In Your name I pray, Amen.

On the night Jesus was observing Passover with the disciples (Passover is a yearly reminder of God’s provision to save the Hebrew people from their captivity in Egypt. See Exodus 12.), at the conclusion of the meal, Jesus mentioned something new with an explanation: the bread, representing Jesus’ body that would be broken for His people, and the wine, representing the blood Jesus would spill on the cross. These elements were to serve as a reminder of what Jesus did for us on the cross.

In Hebrews, we see a clear picture of the old sacrificial system and its shortcomings (the blood of animals, repeated year after year, imperfect priests, a man-made temple), and then a picture of all that Jesus’ blood accomplished for us (perfect, righteous blood of the Son of God, completed once and for all, done by our perfect High Priest, all presented before God, and not in a temple made by human hands).

Hebrews 9:22 says that without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins (which is a look back at the God’s command to Moses in Leviticus 17:11). As Jesus said in His ministry, He did not come to abolish the Law, but to fulfill, or complete it (Matthew 5:17). While the blood of animals covered our sins under the Mosaic Law of the Old Testament, the blood of Jesus removes our sin.

The symbolism behind the elements of the Lord’s Supper, or communion, are everything to the believer in Jesus Christ. They are that reminder that our sins are not just covered over, but that they are removed. Because of Christ’s sacrifice for us, we’re able to come before God our Father in full assurance that we know we have been washed clean (Hebrews 10:19-25). Our response is not one of begrudging submission, but one of full gratitude for what’s been done for us, though we were undeserving of such grace (Ephesians 2:8).

Jesus, thank You being the perfect sacrifice I needed for the forgiveness of my sins. I know I don’t deserve it, but because of Your great love for me, You have made me worthy. Thank You for Your broken body and spilt blood given as payment for my failures so that I could be redeemed, spend eternity with You, and that You receive all the glory for. Help me to live in a manner worthy of the sacrifice You made for me. In Your name I pray and am able to come to you, Amen.

On the Sunday before Easter—what we now call Palm Sunday—Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 and revealing Himself as the rightful King of Israel. This moment served as a public declaration that Jesus is the long-awaited Jewish Messiah. As He traveled the road into Jerusalem, the people laid down their cloaks and spread palm branches before Him as the donkey carried the King of Kings. Crowds gathered both in front of Him and behind Him, shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!”

In that exciting moment as Jesus entered Jerusalem, the people were caught up in a historic event they did not yet fully understand. Only after His death, burial, and resurrection would the meaning of that day become clear.

Some in the crowd did not even know who Jesus was and asked those around them. Others believed He was simply a prophet and miracle worker from Nazareth. Still others hoped that this moment might signal the overthrow of Roman rule and the restoration of a political kingdom under a new king from the line of David.
 
But Jesus did not enter Jerusalem to claim an earthly throne. Instead, He made His way to the Temple—not a palace—because His kingdom is ultimately a spiritual one. Jesus came not only to be King of Israel, but to be the Savior of the world. 

Father, thank You for Jesus. Thank You that He came to earth as a humble servant to be the Messiah and Savior of the world. Guard my heart from a self-centered faith that focuses only on my own needs and desires. Instead, help me seek Your kingdom and Your purposes above all else. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen. 

Title: Following Jesus Down the Palm Sunday Path

Scripture: John 12:12-33

Overview: As Jesus enters Jerusalem, crowds celebrate Him as King, yet many misunderstand His mission. While some are drawn by miracles and curiosity, Jesus reveals that His true purpose is not earthly triumph but sacrificial death. Through His coming cross, He will bring salvation not just to Israel, but to all who believe.

Main Points:

• A Dramatic Entry
• A Desired Encounter
• A Defining Expression

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why were people excited to see Jesus when He came into the city?
• What does it mean that Jesus is a King who brings peace?
• How can you follow Jesus this week?

For Students & Adults

• Why do you think many people praised Jesus but didn’t truly follow Him?
• What does “we want to see Jesus” look like in your life right now?
• Where is Jesus calling you to surrender or “die to self”?

Application: This week, choose one area of your life—your time, your plans, or your priorities—and intentionally surrender it to Jesus as an act of following Him.

Scripture: Luke 2

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – As Jesus grew up, He was strong and wise. Jesus was getting ready to follow His Father’s plan: to die on the cross and save people from sin.

Kids – Jesus obeyed God, His Heavenly Father, His entire life and followed His plan. It was God the Father’s plan that Jesus would die on a cross for our sins and rise again so that those who believe in Him could have eternal life.

Students – As Jesus grew, He increased in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and with people. Each step of His life prepared Him for the eternal mission His Father had given Him: to live a life of complete obedience, to die on the cross for our sins, and to rise again in victory.

Adults – Jesus, the divine Son of God, honored and obeyed his earthly parents completely in fulfillment of the law of God so that He could be the perfect sacrifice for our sins in our place.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What did Jesus do when He was a child that shows He loved God?
• Why is it important that Jesus obeyed God perfectly?
• How can you grow to be more like Jesus?

For Students & Adults

• What does Jesus’ early obedience teach us about spiritual growth?
• How does understanding Jesus’ full humanity and divinity strengthen your faith?
• In what ways can you intentionally grow in wisdom and obedience this week?

Title: Following Jesus to a Friend’s House

Scripture: John 12:1-11

Overview: In John 12:1–11, Jesus visits Bethany just days before the cross and shares a meal with close friends. Martha serves, Mary anoints Jesus with costly perfume, and Lazarus sits at the table as a living testimony of Jesus’ power. In contrast to their love and devotion, Judas responds with criticism and selfish motives. The passage highlights worship, service, witness, and the growing opposition to Jesus as His final week begins.

Main Points:

• The Celebration
• The Complaint
• A Crowd

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What do Martha, Mary, and Lazarus each show us about loving Jesus?
• Why do you think Mary wanted to give Jesus something so special?
• What is one way you can worship, serve, or talk about Jesus this week?

For Students & Adults

• Martha served, Mary worshiped, and Lazarus witnessed. Which of those comes most naturally to you, and which needs to grow?
• What made Mary’s act of worship so meaningful and costly?
• Judas looked spiritual on the outside, but his heart was wrong. How can we guard against fake devotion or selfish motives?

Application: This week, choose one intentional way to follow Jesus by worshiping Him, serving others, or sharing your story of what He has done in your life.

Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – The wise men worshiped Jesus as King. Jesus is the true King who deserves all our worship.

Kids – The wise men worshiped Jesus as the Messiah and gave Him valuable gifts. Jesus gave His life for us when He died on the cross for our sins. Jesus is worthy of worship.

Students – Jesus was born to be our great Shepherd. When the wise men came before Jesus, they worshipped Him and offered Him gifts fit for a king. Jesus, even as a baby, was the King of kings and the Lord of all creation. One day, He will return to rule His eternal kingdom.

Adults – The wise men from a foreign country recognized Jesus as the King of the Jews, as creation aligned to reveal His birthplace. And when they found Him, they rightfully worshiped Him.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why did the wise men travel so far to find Jesus?
• What do their gifts show us about who Jesus is?
• What are some ways we can show Jesus that He is our King?

For Students & Adults

• What does this story teach us about who Jesus is?
• Why is Jesus worthy of worship from every person and every nation?
• What does it look like to truly surrender your life to Jesus as King?

Title: The Great Commission or The Great Omission?

Scripture: Matthew 28:19-20

Overview: In His final instructions to His followers, Jesus gave the church its mission: to go into the world, make disciples, baptize believers, and teach them to obey His commands. The Great Commission reminds us that the gospel is meant for all people everywhere and that every believer has a role in sharing the message of Christ.

Main Points:

• There Is No Place Jesus Doesn’t Belong
• There Is No Power Jesus Doesn’t Possess
• There Is No Person Jesus Won’t Use

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What does it mean when Jesus tells us to “go and make disciples”?
• Who are some people you know that you could show the love of Jesus to this week?
• Why do you think Jesus wants everyone to hear about Him?

For Students & Adults

• Why do you think Jesus gave the church the mission of making disciples instead of keeping the message only among His first followers?
• What are some ways you can live on mission right where God has placed you—at work, school, or in your neighborhood?
• Which of the three truths from the message challenges or encourages you the most right now?

Application: This week, ask God to help you see your everyday life as a mission field. Look for opportunities to show kindness, speak about your faith, or invite someone into a conversation about Jesus.

Scripture: Luke 2:25-40

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – God kept His promise to send a Savior! We can trust Jesus to save us from our sins, and we can tell others the good news about Jesus.

Kids – Simeon and Anna worshiped Jesus as the Messiah who God promised to save people from their sins. By trusting in Jesus, we can be saved from our sins and, like Simeon and Anna, praise God for His salvation.

Students – Simeon praised God when he saw Jesus, recognizing Him as the promise for which Israel had longed. Simeon also prophesied that many would oppose Jesus. Jesus came to His people, but they did not receive Him. To all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to be children of God (John 1:11-12).

Adults – At the temple, even as an infant, Jesus was recognized as the Messiah, the One who would fulfill God's promise of salvation.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Who were Simeon and Anna, and why were they excited to see Jesus?
• What promise did God keep by sending Jesus?
• How can you praise God for sending Jesus to save us?

For Students & Adults

• What does Simeon’s response teach us about recognizing God’s promises?
• Why is Jesus the only true hope for salvation?
• How should knowing Jesus is the Savior shape the way we talk to others about Him?

Title: Building a Life on God’s Redemptive Plan

Scripture: Ruth 4:13-22

Overview: Ruth 4 brings the story of Ruth and Boaz to its joyful conclusion. What began with loss, grief, and uncertainty ends with redemption, restoration, and hope. God provides a redeemer, blesses Ruth and Boaz with a child, and ultimately reveals that their story is part of a much larger plan—one that leads to King David and, ultimately, to Jesus Christ. Through ordinary obedience and God’s providential care, He turns hopelessness into a future filled with purpose.

Main Points:

• A Sacred Ceremony – Boaz fulfills his promise to redeem Ruth, demonstrating faithfulness, integrity, and God’s provision through the institution of redemption.
• A Supernatural Child – God blesses Ruth and Boaz with a son, Obed, showing that the Lord is actively working behind the scenes to accomplish His purposes.
• A Sincere Celebration – The community rejoices in God’s provision as Naomi’s life moves from emptiness to fullness and the family line leading to King David is established.
• 5 Remarkable Truths from the Book of Ruth
  1. Regardless of how difficult our lives may be, if we surrender our lives and walk in obedience, God will see us through.
  2. No person is ever out of reach of God’s redeeming love.
  3. It does no good to get angry at God and blame Him for our mistakes or misfortune.
  4. Our decisions, although they seem small and insignificant, can be used by God for a better future.
  5. God providentially leads us from helplessness and hopelessness to a future and a hope, if we will put our trust in Him

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What does it mean that Boaz helped and cared for Ruth and Naomi? Why was that important?
• How did God turn Naomi’s sadness at the beginning of the story into joy at the end
• What are some ways God helps people even when they feel sad or discouraged?

For Students & Adults

• What stands out to you most about how God worked in Ruth 4?
• How does this passage show that God is at work even in ordinary decisions and events
• Which of the truths from the book of Ruth do you find most encouraging or challenging in your life right now?

Application: Take time this week to reflect on how God has worked in your life—even through difficult seasons or small decisions. Write down one way you have seen His faithfulness and thank Him for guiding your story according to His redemptive plan.

Scripture: Matthew 1; Luke 1–2; Luke 2:1–20

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – God kept His promise to send a Savior! This is very good news. Jesus is God’s Son. He came into the world to rescue people from their sins.

Kids – God kept His promise to send Jesus, the Messiah, to save people from their sins. God will keep His promise to save everyone who trusts in Jesus as Savior and Lord.

Students – The birth of Jesus fulfilled many Old Testament promises concerning the coming Messiah. Jesus was born in humble circumstances to be the sacrificial Lamb and would lay down His life to be our mighty Savior. One day, Jesus will return as our eternal King.

Adults – As prophesied in scripture and proclaimed by an angel, Jesus, the Lord and the Messiah, was born in Bethlehem. The shepherds heard the gospel, shared it with others, and all were amazed.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why did God send Jesus into the world?
• What makes the birth of Jesus such good news for us?
• Who is someone you could tell about Jesus this week?

For Students & Adults

• Why do you think God chose to send Jesus into the world in such humble circumstances?
• How does the birth of Jesus reveal both God’s humility and His power?
• In what ways can you share the good news of Jesus with others this week?

Title: The Unfolding Plan of God

Scripture: Ruth 4:1-12

Overview: As the book of Ruth comes to a close, Boaz fulfills his role as kinsman-redeemer by legally securing the right to redeem Elimelech’s land and marry Ruth. What appeared to be ordinary legal proceedings at the city gate were actually part of God’s sovereign plan to preserve a family line that would ultimately lead to King David—and to Jesus. Through an awaited conversation, an acknowledged condition, and an affirmed commitment, we see that God’s redemptive purposes unfold with intention and power.

Main Points:

• An Awaited Conversation
• An Acknowledged Condition
• An Affirmed Commitment

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What does it mean that Boaz was a “redeemer” for Ruth?
• Why do you think God planned for Ruth to be part of Jesus’ family line?
• How can we trust God when we don’t understand what He is doing?

For Students & Adults

• Where do you see God’s sovereignty most clearly in this passage?
• Why was the city gate the right place for this redemption to happen? What does that tell us about public faithfulness?
• How does Boaz’s willingness to redeem Ruth point us to Jesus?

Application: Take time this week to identify an area of your life that feels uncertain or unresolved. Surrender it to the Lord in prayer and remind yourself that God’s plan is often unfolding behind the scenes—even when you cannot yet see the outcome.

Scripture: Luke 1; John 1

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – John told people to get ready for Jesus, the Savior coming to be our Rescuer and King forever.

Kids – God spoke through His prophets in the Old Testament, like Isaiah and Malachi, and shared His plan to send Jesus into the world to save people from sin. When the time had come, God called John to be a witness for Jesus. Anyone who trusts in Jesus will be saved.

Students – God spoke through Old Testament prophets, like Isaiah and Malachi, and shared His plan to send Jesus into the world to save people from sin. When the time had come, God called John to be a witness for Jesus.

Adults – God is not abrupt in His ways but has planned all along to send a Savior for His people. That includes sending messengers to prepare the way to ready hearts to receive Him.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why did God send John before Jesus?
• What does it mean that Jesus is the “True Light”?
• How can you help someone learn about Jesus?

For Students & Adults

• How does John the Baptist’s role mirror what we see happening in Ruth 4?
• What does this week’s study teach us about God’s timing?
• In what ways can your life prepare the way for others to know Christ?

Title: The Masterplan of a Mother-in-Law

Scripture: Ruth 3:1–18

Overview: In Ruth 3, Naomi creates a bold plan to secure rest and redemption for Ruth through Boaz, their kinsman-redeemer. Ruth follows Naomi’s counsel with courage and humility, appealing to Boaz for protection and redemption. Boaz responds with integrity and honor, though an obstacle remains. The chapter highlights wise counsel, patient trust, and God’s sovereign work behind the scenes to accomplish redemption.

Main Points:

• The Proposal – Naomi lovingly guides Ruth toward rest and provision.
• The Plot – Ruth obeys with courage and careful timing.
• The Plea – Ruth asks to be taken under Boaz’s wing as her redeemer.
• The Plan – Boaz commits to act, though an obstacle must be resolved.
• The Pursuit – Redemption moves forward with urgency and faith.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why did Naomi want to help Ruth find a husband?
• What does it mean that Boaz was a “family redeemer”?
• Who are some people God gives you to help guide and encourage you?

For Students & Adults

• How does Naomi’s role show the importance of wise, godly counsel?
• What risks did Ruth take in chapter 3? What does that teach us about faith?
• Where do you currently need to trust God while waiting for Him to resolve something?

Application: Who has God placed in your life to guide you — and who might He be calling you to guide or encourage this week?

Scripture: Malachi 1–4

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – Malachi told everyone that another messenger, John the Baptist, would come to get people ready for Jesus, God’s Son, who came to save people from their sins.

Kids – Malachi told the people to turn away from sin as they looked forward to the promised Messiah. Years later, God sent John the Baptist to prepare the way for Jesus—the Messiah. Jesus brought a message of repentance and salvation.

Students – Though Malachi, God promised a Messenger—Jesus—who would purify His people. Through His blood and sacrifice, Jesus purifies us, making us right with God because of His righteousness.

Adults – Though those who trust in Jesus are in right standing with God the Father because of Christ and are being sanctified daily by the Holy Spirit, when Christ returns, He will purify us completely, finishing our sanctification process as He finally establishes His kingdom on earth.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• What does it mean to turn away from sin?
• Why did God send John the Baptist before Jesus?
• How does Jesus make our hearts clean?

For Students & Adults

• What does purification look like in the life of a believer?
• Why is it good news that God will both judge evil and purify His people?
• How does knowing Christ will return shape the way you live today?

Title: The God Who Provides

Scripture: Ruth 2:2-23

Overview: Ruth sets out to gather grain to provide for herself and Naomi. What seems like coincidence is actually God’s providence at work. The Lord leads her to the field of Boaz—a relative of Naomi’s late husband—who shows her extraordinary kindness. Through provision, favor, and protection, God begins unfolding a future far greater than Ruth or Naomi could imagine.

Main Points:

• A Field – God provided a place for Ruth to work and be sustained.
• A Favor – Ruth found unexpected kindness and generosity.
• A Future – God was preparing redemption through a kinsman-redeemer.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• How did God provide food for Ruth and Naomi?
• What does it mean that Ruth found “favor” in Boaz’s field?
• Can you think of a time God provided something you needed?

For Students & Adults

• Why is it significant that Ruth was working when God’s provision unfolded?
• Where do you see God’s providence (not coincidence) in this chapter?
• How does Boaz reflect God’s character in the way he treats Ruth?

Application: Where in your life do you need to trust that God is already at work—even if you cannot yet see the full future He is preparing?

Scripture: Nehemiah 7–13

Christ/Gospel Connections:
All of Scripture points back to Jesus. In our study each week, every age group’s lesson includes a note about how the message connects to Christ. Use these Christ/Gospel Connections as a springboard for meaningful discussion about who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Preschool – The people promised to obey God, but no one can obey all the time. We all do wrong things. Only Jesus obeyed God perfectly, so we can trust Him to help us when we sin.

Kids – God's people remembered all He had done, and they promised to be faithful. God is gracious and compassionate. All along, God has been faithful to people who are unfaithful. We experience God’s grace and compassion in Jesus, who gave His life so we can receive mercy and life forever.

Students – God’s people remembered all He had done and promised to be faithful. God is gracious and compassionate. All along, God has been faithful to people who are unfaithful. We experience God’s grace and compassion in Jesus, who gave His life so we can receive mercy and life forever.

Adults – Before Christ, reconciliation with God was similar but temporary, yet it did include confession, worship, and purification. Now, when we repent and trust Christ, we are purified by His blood and eternally reconciled with the Father, resulting in our worship of Him.

Discussion Questions:
For Kids

• Why did the people gather to worship and confess their sin?
• Why can’t we obey God perfectly on our own?
• How does Jesus help us when we mess up?

For Students & Adults

• Why is confession essential for real reconciliation with God?
• How does remembering God’s past faithfulness lead to deeper worship?
• In what ways should reconciliation with God shape how we live this week?