August 26, 2022

Title: Eschatology
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 5

Dr. David Capes continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great lesson on eschatology using several passages from the Gospel of Luke.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Dr. David Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

CHRISTIAN ESCHATOLOGY

Is the New Testament all about love and unicorns and sweet things? HINT: Nope! When the disciples asked Jesus what would happen to believers at the second coming, why was he so graphic in his description? (Luke 17:37)

What is our present reality concerning eschatology? What is the New Creation and the New Earth? (Read Revelation)

POINTS FOR HOME:
God is redeeming the world.
Life is not about stuff.
The Kingdom is already, but not yet.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 25, 2022

Title: Eschatology
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 4

Dr. David Capes continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great lesson on eschatology using several passages from the Gospel of Luke.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Dr. David Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

CHRISTIAN ESCHATOLOGY

Did Jesus ever become involved in peoples’ personal problems? Dr. Capes explains what Jesus’ response to the man really meant. (Luke 12:13-21)

Did many people, including some of the disciples, misinterpret Jesus’ words about the second coming? (Luke 19:11)

What did Jesus actually say about the second coming? Why did he remind the people of Noah and the Flood? (Luke 17:22-37)

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 24, 2022

Title: Eschatology
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 3

Dr. David Capes continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great lesson on eschatology using several passages from the Gospel of Luke.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Dr. David Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Why don’t Jews believe that Jesus is the true Messiah? Dr. Capes shares a great story…

CHRISTIAN ESCHATOLOGY

What is Christian eschatology? Dr. Capes discusses the Parable of the Weeds from Matthew 13:24-30. Jesus performed many miracles. Is this proof that he is the Messiah? (Luke 11:20) Did Jesus ever become involved in peoples’ personal problems? (Luke 12:13-21)

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click /strong> here

August 23, 2022

Title: Eschatology
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 2

Dr. David Capes continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great lesson on eschatology using several passages from the Gospel of Luke.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Dr. David Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Are there many, many opinions concerning how the world will end? Dr. Capes discusses a few of the crazy hypotheses. (2 Timothy 3:10-12)

JEWISH ESCHATOLOGY:

What was the Jewish eschatology at the time of Jesus? Dr. Capes discusses their linear view of history, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and the Age of Wrath. Click here and fast-forward to the 30-minute mark to view the timeline. (Isaiah 40)

What are some of the things you worry about? Are there some major threats that we should pay attention to? What happens to all those fears with the second coming of Jesus?

Why don’t Jews believe that Jesus is the true Messiah?

Tune in tomorrow as Dr. Capes shares a great story…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 22, 2022

Title: Eschatology
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 1

Dr. David Capes continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great lesson on eschatology using several passages from the Gospel of Luke.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Dr. David Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

What is eschatology? Dr. Capes explains how the word translates from Greek.

What is individual eschatology?

What is cosmic eschatology?

Are there many, many opinions concerning how the world will end? Dr. Capes discusses a few of the crazy conclusions. Tune in tomorrow for more…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 19, 2022

Title: Only Jesus
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Jarrett Stephens
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 5

Is prayer a priority to you? Where do you pray? Why do you pray?

Pastor Jarrett Stephens subs in for Mark Lanier this week while he is on vacation, continuing the Snapshots of Jesus series. Pastor Jarrett will be teaching from Luke 9, specifically the Transfiguration in verses 28-36.

To view Pastor Jarrett’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

What was the significance of the cloud in the Transfiguration Scripture passage? Why were Peter and the others afraid of the cloud?

Why did Moses and Elijah depart, leaving Jesus alone? (Matthew 17:8; Mark 9:8) “Moses and Elijah salute their divine successor and then leave him alone in his unchallenged supremacy, the sole object of his disciples’ veneration.” (New Testament commentator)

Is God the sole object your worship? Or do you treat God like a Genie in a bottle? Do you truly want to see the glory of God manifest in all you do? Or do you only seek God when you need something? (John 1:12; 2 Peter 1:16-19)

POINTS FOR HOME: Every time you open the Word of God, you experience the Glory of God.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 18, 2022

Title: Only Jesus
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Jarrett Stephens
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 4

Is prayer a priority to you? Where do you pray? Why do you pray?

Pastor Jarrett Stephens subs in for Mark Lanier this week while he is on vacation, continuing the Snapshots of Jesus series. Pastor Jarrett will be teaching from Luke 9, specifically the Transfiguration in verses 28-36.

To view Pastor Jarrett’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

What is the significance of the word “departure” in the Transfiguration Scripture passage? (2 Kings 2:2)

How did Jesus’ conversation with Moses and Elijah on the mountain represent the entire Old Testament? Why did they talk about Jesus’ departure from earth?

Why did Jesus instruct the disciples not to talk about his departure? (Luke 9:21-22)

How did the disciples respond to the vision of Moses and Elijah talking with Jesus on the mountain? Why did Peter want to stay on the mountain? What did he say to Jesus about what he had seen?

Leonard Ravenhill: “There is a price to be paid for spiritual growth.” Is what you’re living for worth Christ dying for?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 17, 2022

Title: Only Jesus
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Jarrett Stephens
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 3

Is prayer a priority to you? Where do you pray? Why do you pray?

Pastor Jarrett Stephens subs in for Mark Lanier this week while he is on vacation, continuing the Snapshots of Jesus series. Pastor Jarrett will be teaching from Luke 9, specifically the Transfiguration in verses 28-36.

To view Pastor Jarrett’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

When do you meet with Jesus? Do you always expect to learn and hear something? If not, why not?

Do each of the Gospels share the Transfiguration of Jesus? Pastor Jarrett admits that his face has never glowed and his clothes never turned white after praying like Moses. (Exodus 32:29)

Was God radiating through Jesus? Or was it the glory of God shining through? What is the difference? (Hebrews 1:3)

Why did Moses and Elijah appear with Jesus on the mountain?

Who would you want to speak with on a mountain after prayer? Pastor Jarrett shares who he would want to talk to…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 16, 2022

Title: Only Jesus
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Jarrett Stephens
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 2

Is prayer a priority to you? Where do you pray? Why do you pray?

Pastor Jarrett Stephens subs in for Mark Lanier this week while he is on vacation, continuing the Snapshots of Jesus series. Pastor Jarrett will be teaching from Luke 9, specifically the Transfiguration in verses 28-36.

To view Pastor Jarrett’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Who did people think Jesus was? Was he physically different than other men? What did his own family say about Jesus? (Luke 9:18-20; Isaiah 53:2b; Mark 3:21)

Did Jesus have emotions just like we do? Did he bleed just like we do? (John 1:14; Philippians 2:6-7)

Why did Jesus willingly lay aside his deity when he came to earth to live as a man?

Why did the Transfiguration take place after a time of prayer? Why did Luke write so often about Jesus’ prayer life? Where did Jesus often pray? (Luke 3; Luke 4; Luke 6; Luke 9:18) Pastor Jarrett says: “Prayer was as natural to Jesus as breathing.”

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 15, 2022

Title: Only Jesus
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Jarrett Stephens
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 1

Is prayer a priority to you? Where do you pray? Why do you pray?

Pastor Jarrett Stephens subs in for Mark Lanier this week while he is on vacation, continuing the Snapshots of Jesus series. Pastor Jarrett will be teaching from Luke 9, specifically the Transfiguration in verses 28-36.

To view Pastor Jarrett’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

What is the purpose and context of the Transfiguration? Pastor Jarrett says: “God is revealing the glory of His son, Jesus, to us.” He uses church camp as an example and also references his book, The Mountains are Calling

As Christians, will we always live in a “mountaintop experience”? Or will we experience the valley as well?

Why were people really paying attention to Jesus and his teachings at this point in his ministry? What was Jesus doing that caused people to stop and listen? (John 3:2; Luke 9:7-9)

Who did people think Jesus was? Was he physically different than other men? (Luke 9:18-20; Isaiah 53:2b)

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 12, 2022

Title: The Woman of Samaria
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a lesson on the story of Jesus and the Woman of Samaria from John 4.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

What did the Samarian people believe about God?

When did the Samarian woman finally understand what Jesus meant when he said he was the living water? Mark quotes St. Ephrem again…

POINTS FOR HOME:
Hear God
Stay Focused
Be Touched

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 11, 2022

Title: The Woman of Samaria
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a lesson on the story of Jesus and the Woman of Samaria from John 4.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Why did the Samarian woman compare Jesus to Jacob? Mark finds this funny…

What is the difference between a “well” and a “spring”? Mark has a great explanation for this…

Does God let us be the “best us”? Or does He recreate us to be something better than we can be on our own? (John 3)

When did the Samarian woman finally understand what Jesus meant when he said he was the living water?

What did the Samarian’s believe about God?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 10, 2022

Title: The Woman of Samaria
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a lesson on the story of Jesus and the Woman of Samaria from John 4.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Mark shares about a mistake the painter made in his Chapel. Why was it so important to Mark that it be absolutely Biblically correct?

Why was Jesus so weary from his journey? Does this show his “human” side?

Why was the Samarian woman at the well at noon? Was this odd?

Was it also odd that Jesus was talking to the Samarian woman?

What is “living water”? (Jeremiah 2:13; Jeremiah 17:13)

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 9, 2022

Title: The Woman of Samaria
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a lesson on the story of Jesus and the Woman of Samaria from John 4.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Why did Jesus pass through Samaria? Was it absolutely necessary? (John 3:14; John 9:4; John 12:34; John 20:9)

Who was St. Ephrem? What was he famous for writing? What did he write about this passage in John? Mark interprets it this way: “God will go anywhere He has to in order to find the lost.”

Why was Jesus so tired when he reached Sychar in Samaria? Mark shares a story about a nightmare flight his wife Becky and daughter Sarah recently experienced. He also shares about a mistake the painter made in his Chapel.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 8, 2022

Title: The Woman of Samaria
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a lesson on the story of Jesus and the Woman of Samaria from John 4.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Mark quickly reads through the passage and then explains why it is important to read it slowly.

Why did Jesus pass through Samaria? Was it absolutely necessary? (John 3:14; John 9:4; John 12:34; John 20:9)

Why did the Jews and Samaritans “hate” each other?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 5, 2022

Title: The Purpose and Meaning of Parables
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a look at several Parables in the Gospel of Luke.

His focus will be on:
What are Parables?
Examples of Parables.
Applying Parables in our lives.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

CONTEXT OF THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL (Luke 12:13-21)
When Jesus was asked to intervene in an inheritance squabble, what was his answer? Is it more important to take care of our own soul or the soul of others? Why didn’t this man want to give up his “stuff”? Did the man in this Parable understand what Jesus was saying? Why should we give everything to God? Mark warns us NOT to do it for recognition from the world.

CONTEXT OF THE PARABLE OF THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS (Luke 16:19-31)
Was this a “real story” as compared to an allegorical tale?
How “rich” was this rich man?
What was the man doing at the gate of the rich man’s house? br /> What happened to both men?
When the rich man was in Hades, what did he ask of Abraham?
What was Abraham’s response?
Why did the rich man ask Abraham to send someone to warn his brothers?
WWhat is the “moral” of this Parable?

POINTS FOR HOME:
Look for the vision of Jesus. br /> Serve love in action!

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 4, 2022

Title: The Purpose and Meaning of Parables
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a look at several Parables in the Gospel of Luke.

His focus will be on:
What are Parables?
Examples of Parables.
Applying Parables in our lives.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

CONTEXT OF THE PARABLE OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN (Luke 10:30-35)
Why did a lawyer challenge Jesus? What was the question he asked Jesus?
How far was Jericho from Jerusalem? Was it a dangerous road to travel? Mark reminisces about traveler’s checks…
Who were the three men mentioned in this Parable? Why did the first two men pass on the other side of the street?
Were Samaritans considered good people? How did the Good Samaritan take care of the man who had been beaten and robbed?
How did Jesus test the lawyer who questioned him?

CONTEXT OF THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL (Luke 12:13-21)
When Jesus was asked to intervene in an inheritance squabble, what was his answer?
What is the “moral” of this Parable? Mark explains that it is Economics 101, using Biden and the price of oil as an example…
Is it more important to take care of our own soul or the soul of others? More on this Parable tomorrow…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 3, 2022

Title: The Purpose and Meaning of Parables
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a look at several Parables in the Gospel of Luke.

His focus will be on:
What are Parables?
Examples of Parables.
Applying Parables in our lives.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

THE PARABLE OF THE FOUR SOILS (Luke 8:4-15)
What is the “moral” of this Parable?
How did Jesus describe the four types of disciples (the four soils) differently than the Rabbis?
Why are our actions important to our testimony?

CONTEXT OF THE PARABLE OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN (Luke 10:30-35)
Why did a lawyer challenge Jesus? What was the question he asked Jesus?
Is it actually possible to love God perfectly, without wavering? SHORT ANSWER: Nope.
Is it really possible to love our neighbor as Jesus loves us? SHORT ANSWER: Nope.
Who is our neighbor? More on this tomorrow!

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 2, 2022

Title: The Purpose and Meaning of Parables
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a look at several Parables in the Gospel of Luke.

His focus will be on:
What are Parables?
Examples of Parables.
Applying Parables in our lives.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

THE PARABLE OF THE GOOD SAMARITAN (Luke 10:30-35)
Background from yesterday: Origen was a teacher in Alexandria, Egypt in the 200’s AD who taught that Parables should be read as allegories.

What was Origen’s allegorical approach to this Parable? This is really interesting!

What did theologian John Calvin say about Origen’s allegorical approach of this Parable?


THE PARABLE OF THE FOUR SOILS (Luke 8:4-15)
Why is it important to understand the context of the day when reading Scripture?

What is the “moral” of this Parable?

We may not understand this particular Parable, but it made perfect sense to the people of the day! Tune in tomorrow as Mark completes his explanation of this Parable.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

August 1, 2022

Title: The Purpose and Meaning of Parables
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series this week with a look at several Parables in the Gospel of Luke.

His focus will be on:
What are Parables?
Examples of Parables.
Applying Parables in our lives.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

What are Parables?

Mark shares a story a friend of his from the Middle East told him about a scorpion and a tortoise.

Oxford Dictionary definition of Parable: allegory, proverb, discourse, speech, talk

What does Parable mean in Greek? What does Parable mean in Hebrew? Is this what Jesus used when he spoke?

Were Parables widely used by Rabbis and religious leaders? Mark references the book by Steven Notley, “Parables of the Sages”, which explains the Parables used in the Bible and why they were used. What is the purpose of Parables?

Why don’t most Parables use specific references to time or places?

Do Parables describe reality?

Were people telling Parables long before Jesus did?

Mark shares about a school in Alexandria, Egypt in the 200’s AD and a teacher named Origen, who taught that Parables should be read as allegories.

Tune in tomorrow as Mark finishes up his discussion on the Parable of the Good Samaritan. (Luke 10:30-35)

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

July 29, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke - Part 2
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Last week, Mark Lanier looked at two women Luke wrote about in his Gospel, specifically the widow whose son had died and the woman of the city who washed Jesus’ feet with her tears (Luke 7:11-8:3). He continues with more this week, focusing on the following passes:
Luke 10:38-42 Luke 11:27-28 Luke 13:10-17 Luke 23: 27-31

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

John Calvin on the Sabbath: “God’s grace doesn’t rest on the Sabbath. The Sabbath is God’s special day to save His people!”

THE WOMAN WITH THE DISABLING SPIRIT Luke 13:10-17
Who was the woman in the Synagogue? What was her ailment? Was she considered an outsider?
Did this woman approach Jesus or did he call her to him? What did he say to her? Did he heal her?
What did the ruler of the Synagogue do when Jesus healed the woman on the Sabbath? Did he indirectly shame Jesus?
How did Jesus rebuke the ruler?

DAUGHTERS OF JERUSALEM Luke 23: 27-31
What was happening in this chapter of Luke? Why were people following Jesus – crying?
Why did Jesus specifically address the women in the crowd?
Did Jesus ever pretend that the world was perfect and what we should desire? (This is a rhetorical question!)

POINTS FOR HOME:
Quit blaming Jesus for your worries and problems.
Replace worry with trust.
Walk in the uprightness of Jesus.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

July 28, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke - Part 2
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Last week, Mark Lanier looked at two women Luke wrote about in his Gospel, specifically the widow whose son had died and the woman of the city who washed Jesus’ feet with her tears (Luke 7:11-8:3). He continues with more this week, focusing on the following passes:
Luke 10:38-42 Luke 11:27-28 Luke 13:10-17 Luke 23: 27-31

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

THE WOMAN WITH THE DISABLING SPIRIT Luke 13:10-17

Why was Jesus teaching in a Synagogue on the Sabbath?

Who was the woman in the Synagogue? What was her ailment? Was she considered an outsider?

Who was Rabbi Joshua? What did he write about the attributes of human beings and animals? How does this connect to the woman from this story? (Genesis 1:27)

Did this woman approach Jesus or did he call her to him? What did he say to her? Did he heal her?

Tune in tomorrow to find out what the ruler of the Synagogue did when Jesus healed the woman on the Sabbath…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

July 27, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke - Part 2
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Last week, Mark Lanier looked at two women Luke wrote about in his Gospel, specifically the widow whose son had died and the woman of the city who washed Jesus’ feet with her tears (Luke 7:11-8:3). He continues with more this week, focusing on the following passes:
Luke 10:38-42 Luke 11:27-28 Luke 13:10-17 Luke 23: 27-31

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Mark concludes his discussion on Martha and Mary with a reminder that we always need to be learning more and more about Jesus and the Word of God. No matter how much we think we know, we can always learn more.

A WOMAN IN THE CROWD SHOUTED AT JESUS Luke 11:27-28

What is the context behind these verses?

Why did the woman in the crowd shout out to Jesus: “Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts at which you nursed”? Was this an odd proclamation?

How did Jesus respond to her? Was he reprimanding her? Or was he simply shifting the focus of her praise?

How can we “hear” the Word of God? Mark says: “This (the Bible) is God revealing Himself to us through the ages… so we can know Him better… and have a better understanding of our faith.”

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

July 26, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke - Part 2
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Last week, Mark Lanier looked at two women Luke wrote about in his Gospel, specifically the widow whose son had died and the woman of the city who washed Jesus’ feet with her tears (Luke 7:11-8:3). He continues with more this week, focusing on the following passes:
Luke 10:38-42 Luke 11:27-28 Luke 13:10-17 Luke 23: 27-31

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

MARTHA AND MARY Luke 10:38-42
Is too much worry a bad thing? Yesterday, Mark discussed Martha’s complaint to Jesus. Today he continues with Jesus’ response to her.
What are a few other Scriptures about worry and anxiousness? Matthew 11:28-30; Philippians 4:6-7; John 14:27; 1 Peter 5:7; Jeremiah 17:7-10
How can we practically apply these Scriptures to our lives?
Is it really possible to praise God and give Him thanks through trials and tribulations?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

July 25, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke - Part 2
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Last week, Mark Lanier looked at two women Luke wrote about in his Gospel, specifically the widow whose son had died and the woman of the city who washed Jesus’ feet with her tears (Luke 7:11-8:3). He continues with more this week, focusing on the following passes:
Luke 10:38-42 Luke 11:27-28 Luke 13:10-17 Luke 23: 27-31

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

MARTHA AND MARY Luke 10:38-42

Why did Martha welcome Jesus into her house? Was this “odd”?

Who was Mary?

Why did these two sisters live together? Was this “bizarre”?

Were women supposed to be taught and know the Torah? Mark quotes Rabbi Akiva and Rabbi Eliezer. (Deuteronomy 11:19)

What did Martha say to Jesus about her sister? Was she distracted with serving Jesus and the men? Or was she really just complaining?

How did Jesus respond to Martha’s complaint? Mark explains why Luke makes a shift in verse 41 in how he emphasizes the authority of Jesus. This is important! Tune in tomorrow for more of the explanation…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

July 22, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Have you ever felt like an outsider? Why does God have a great concern for “outsiders”, especially women? Mark Lanier continues his Snapshots of Jesus series with a lesson on two of the women discussed in the Gospel of Luke.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Why did Jesus tell Simon the Pharisee the story of the two debtors? Mark explains that there is power in telling certain stories to certain people. He then shares his own story about white-water canoeing in Colorado.

NOTE: Due to time constraints, we needed to edit some of the beginning story out. Go to our archives for July 21, 2022 to hear the full story.

What is the moral of Mark’s story?

What is the moral of the story of in Luke 7:36-8:3? Mark explains the difference between the “sinful woman” and Simon, the Pharisee.

POINTS FOR HOME:
Be compassionate like Jesus. After all, he has compassion on you!
Find people who are outsiders and do the work of Jesus to bring them inside.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

July 21, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Have you ever felt like an outsider? Why does God have a great concern for “outsiders”, especially women? Mark Lanier continues his Snapshots of Jesus series with a lesson on two of the women discussed in the Gospel of Luke.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

MARK’S CHALLENGE FROM Luke 7:11-8:3

As flawed, sinful human beings, we see the world and people one way. God sees the world and people another way. How can we change the way we view the world and people?

Why did Jesus tell Simon the Pharisee the story of the two debtors? Mark explains that there is power in telling certain stories to certain people. He then shares his own story about white-water canoeing in Colorado.

NOTE: Due to time constraints, we had to abruptly end the story. Tune in tomorrow to hear the conclusion!

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 20, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Have you ever felt like an outsider? Why does God have a great concern for “outsiders”, especially women? Mark Lanier continues his Snapshots of Jesus series with a lesson on two of the women discussed in the Gospel of Luke.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Luke 7:11-8:3 (second section vs 7:36-8:3)

Why did Jesus go to a Pharisees’ house?

Why was inviting someone to dinner a big deal?

How was the dining room setup back then? Mark explains why it was kind of weird…

Who was the “woman of the city” who came to the Pharisees’ house? What was her occupation? Mark explains that this is important to understand the context of the rest of the passage…

What did she bring to Jesus? What did she do with her hair? What did she do next? This is really scandalous!

What was the Pharisee’s reaction to the woman’s actions? Did he express this opinion out loud to Jesus?

What did Jesus say in response to the Pharisee, whose name was Simon?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 19, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Have you ever felt like an outsider? Why does God have a great concern for “outsiders”, especially women? Mark Lanier continues his Snapshots of Jesus series with a lesson on two of the women discussed in the Gospel of Luke.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Luke 7:11-8:3 (first section thru vs 17)
Who was the widow in Nain and why was there a crowd with her?
How does this story give us an incredible glimpse into the nature of God’s mission in Jesus? Mark discusses three things Jesus did when talking with the widow. Was Jesus asserting his authority to the widow (and to the crowd)?

Luke 7:11-8:3 (second section vs 7:36-8:3)
Why did Jesus go to a Pharisees’ house?
Who was the “woman of the city” who came to the Pharisees’ house?
What did she bring to Jesus? What did she do with her hair?
Were Pharisees very strict concerning “God’s code”?
Why was inviting someone to dinner a big deal?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 18, 2022

Title: Women in the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Have you ever felt like an outsider? Why does God have a great concern for “outsiders”, especially women? Mark Lanier continues his Snapshots of Jesus series with a lesson on two of the women discussed in the Gospel of Luke.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

How are the four Gospels the same? How are they different? How is Luke unique? Mark reminds us that God makes dramatic U-turns in the lives of His people.

Five passages in Luke about women that the other Gospels don’t have:
Luke 7:11-8:3 (This is the focus of his lesson this week.)
Luke 10:38-42
Luke 11:27-28
Luke 13:10-17
Luke 23: 27-31

Luke 7:11-8:3 (first section thru vs 17)

Where was the town Nain? Why did Jesus go there?

Who was the widow in Nain and why was there a crowd with her?

When someone died back then, why were the people who touched the body considered unclean for seven days? This is very interesting, and Mark quotes New Testament scholar, Joel Green, to explain. (Click the link above and fast-forward to the 26-minute mark for the full quote.)

Tune in tomorrow as Mark continues to discuss the widow and this passage…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 15, 2022

Title: What is the Goal of Life?
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 5

What is the most important goal of life for a Christian?

Dr. David Capes subs in for Mark Lanier this week, teaching on Luke 10.

Dr. Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Who is our “neighbor”?

Why should we be like the Good Samaritan?

Why is compassion costly? Dr. Capes plays a short clip from Mark’s lesson from last week concerning the Roe v Wade decision, reminding us that, as Christians, we are to show compassion to everyone – no matter what. Period. End of discussion.

POINTS FOR HOME:
Love God
Love your neighbor
Compassion is costly

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 14, 2022

Title: What is the Goal of Life?
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 4

What is the most important goal of life for a Christian?

Dr. David Capes subs in for Mark Lanier this week, teaching on Luke 10.

Dr. Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Dr. Capes continues telling the story of his trip to Jerusalem as he explains the parable of the Good Samaritan…

Who is our “neighbor”? Are they just the people who live next-door or in our neighborhood? Are they just the people who look like us, think like us, and live like us? Or does neighbor refer to “everyone”? (Luke 10:30-35)

How did the Good Samaritan help the man who had been robbed? Dr. Capes lists six things…

How did God reverse the question from the lawyer? How did God reverse the situation in the parable of the Good Samaritan?

Why should we be like the Good Samaritan? Dr. Capes reminds us that compassion can be costly, but it is so worth it!

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 13, 2022

Title: What is the Goal of Life?
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 3

What is the most important goal of life for a Christian?

Dr. David Capes subs in for Mark Lanier this week, teaching on Luke 10.

Dr. Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

What is “midrash”? Dr. Capes shares a story about digging to explain…

How is midrash written?

Was Jesus asked the question about eternal life often? Was his answer always the same? (Luke 10: 26-28; Deuteronomy 6:5; Leviticus 19:18)

Did the lawyer continue to challenge Jesus? Was he trying to justify himself before Jesus? (Luke 10:29)

Who is our “neighbor”? Are they just the people who live next-door or in our neighborhood? Are they just the people who look like us, think like us, and live like us? Or does neighbor refer to “everyone”? (Luke 10:30-35)

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 12, 2022

Title: What is the Goal of Life?
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 2

What is the most important goal of life for a Christian?

Dr. David Capes subs in for Mark Lanier this week, teaching on Luke 10.

Dr. Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

What does happiness mean? Dr. David Capes quotes Pastor Stuart Briscoe: “For most people, their happiness depends on their happenings. And if their happenings don’t happen to happen the way they want their happenings to happen, they are not happy.”

What did the Founders write about happiness? Why did they include this in the Declaration of Independence?

Luke 10:25: Why did a lawyer ask Jesus what he should do to inherit eternal life? Was he testing Jesus?

What is the most important word in that verse?

Tune in tomorrow as Dr. Capes continues to discuss “midrash”.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 11, 2022

Title: What is the Goal of Life?
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Dr. David Capes
with Lanier Theological Library (www.LanierTheologicalLibrary.org)

Day 1

What is the most important goal of life for a Christian?

Dr. David Capes subs in for Mark Lanier this week, teaching on Luke 10.

Dr. Capes is the Director of the Lanier Theological Library.

To view Dr. David Capes’ video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Is life meaningless?

If there is no point to life, then what is the point in living?

True or Fales: The person who dies with the most toys – wins.

What does happiness mean? Dr. David Capes quotes Pastor Stuart Briscoe: “For most people, their happiness depends on their happenings. And if their happenings don’t happen to happen the way they want their happenings to happen, they are not happy.”

Dr. Capes recommends reading Aristotle’s book, “Nicomachean Ethics”

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 8, 2022

Title: God is Reversing the World
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

What is one of the major themes of the Gospel of Luke? Mark says: “God is reversing this world!” This week, Mark Lanier looks at Luke from the perspective of God making a U-Turn.

His focus will be on three areas:
The Good News
The Bad News
Thinking Logically About Both

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

BLESSINGS AND WOES FROM LUKE’S BEATITUDES Luke 6:20-26
The poor receive the Kingdom of Heaven. The rich already got theirs.
The hungry get satisfied. The full will be hungry.
The weeping will laugh. The laughing will mourn and weep.
The hated will receive a great reward in the Kingdom of Heaven. The spoken highly of will be treated like false prophets.
How should this change our mission, vision, and values?

At the trial academy seminar Mark recently hosted, he invited anyone who wanted to hear his testimony to attend a breakfast. 500 people showed up! Praise Jesus! Listen to what else happened when he spoke with a young woman who attended the breakfast. Mark also discusses Luke 16:19-30.

POINTS FOR HOME:
Refocus how you view everything. Refocus how you treat people.
God has done great things – and He is STILL doing great things.
Be on Team God!

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 7, 2022

Title: God is Reversing the World
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

What is one of the major themes of the Gospel of Luke? Mark says: “God is reversing this world!” This week, Mark Lanier looks at Luke from the perspective of God making a U-Turn.

His focus will be on three areas:
The Good News
The Bad News
Thinking Logically About Both

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Is God just sitting up in Heaven, watching all of the world events unfold, waiting to see what happens? NO!!! His gentle, guiding hand is in the midst of it all – even YOUR life!

Mark reviews the history of abortion in America from a law perspective, beginning with the Civil War.
What addictions came about from the Civil War?
What is notable about the old anti-pornography laws?
Where were birth control pills illegal? Did Planned Parenthood set up shop there? What resulted from this defiant law-breaking?
Is there a Constitutional right to birth control? Yes, but no… Mark explains the “right to privacy” …
What was the argument for Roe v Wade?
Is there a Constitutional right to abortion? Yes, but actually no… Mark explains that it all goes back to the anti-pornography laws! It’s a big circle!

BOTTOM LINE: Mark says: “God expects His people to find those who are hurting and desperate and love them with a selfless compassion.”

CHRISTIANS: This is OUR chance to do a U-Turn in the life of the mother and child.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 6, 2022

Title: God is Reversing the World
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

What is one of the major themes of the Gospel of Luke? Mark says: “God is reversing this world!” This week, Mark Lanier looks at Luke from the perspective of God making a U-Turn.

His focus will be on three areas:
The Good News
The Bad News
Thinking Logically About Both

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Is God just sitting up in Heaven, watching all of the world events unfold, waiting to see what happens? NO!!! His gentle, guiding hand is in the midst of it all – even YOUR life!

BAD NEWS: Luke 1:51-53

Yesterday, Mark compared the proud and the wealthy to dandelions blowing in the wind. He also revealed what God does with the humble and hungry. Today he reminds us that we, in America, have “an embarrassment of riches compared to some people in the world.” What are we to do with the riches God has given to us?

What are The Beatitudes? Mark compares the Gospel of Mark’s Beatitudes to the Gospel of Luke’s Beatitudes, explaining why Luke used 4 blessings and 4 woes in his interpretation. These are more examples of U-Turns in the Bible.

Tune in tomorrow as Mark discusses some of the history behind abortion in America, going all the way back to the Civil War.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 5, 2022

Title: God is Reversing the World
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

What is one of the major themes of the Gospel of Luke? Mark says: “God is reversing this world!” This week, Mark Lanier looks at Luke from the perspective of God making a U-Turn.

His focus will be on three areas:
The Good News
The Bad News
Thinking Logically About Both

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

How can God turn our messes into something great?

GOOD NEWS: Luke 1: 5-25
What U-Turn did God perform in Elizabeth’s life?
Who was Elizabeth? Who did she give birth to? Was this child unexpected and prayed for?
Was Elizabeth’s son destined for greatness? What would he do for the Kingdom of God?
What did John do in Elizabeth’s womb when he heard Mary’s voice?
Mark discusses a beautiful song that is written in Luke 1:48-55.
What U-Turn did God perform in Mary’s life?
What was so special about Mary?
What is so special about US?
Does God love some people more than He loves others?
Mark reminds us that we are ALL special to God because He CARES about ALL of us?

BAD NEWS: Luke 1:51-53
Were many people beginning to think too much of themselves and not enough about God?
What does God do to the proud and the wealthy? Mark compares them to a dandelion that is blowing in the wind…
What does God do to the humble and hungry?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 4, 2022

Title: God is Reversing the World
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

What is one of the major themes of the Gospel of Luke? Mark says: “God is reversing this world!” This week, Mark Lanier looks at Luke from the perspective of God making a U-Turn.

His focus will be on three areas:
The Good News
The Bad News
Thinking Logically About Both

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Do you ever feel lost? Are you good at following directions? Mark admits that he is NOT and shares a funny story about GPS and U-Turns…

What is the point of having four different, but similar, Gospels?

We all know that this world is absolutely not perfect. What’s the point of it all? Mark shares a story about a lawyer who attended his recent trial academy. This story is absolutely amazing! Grab a tissue or two…

Tune in tomorrow as Mark shares more about the Good News from Luke 1, when Elizabeth (Mary’s cousin) discovered that she was pregnant.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

July 1, 2022

Title: Hearing the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at various passages from the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts.

His focus will be on three areas:
Luke’s Background
Looking for clues in the passages
The importance of church history

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

CHURCH HISTORY:
What is the significance of Jesus breaking the bread and drinking the wine – The Lord’s Supper? Mark shares what he learned when researching this, comparing Luke’s version (Luke 22:19) to Paul’s (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).
Mark asks the question again: Who wrote the Gospel of Luke? If you guessed Luke on Monday, then you’d be right!

BONUS PASSAGE: Luke 7:40
Jesus wants to speak into your life.
Your backstory is important!
Remember there is a GOOD ending!

POINTS FOR HOME:
God speaks to you.
God gives you choices.
Listen and learn.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 30, 2022

Title: Hearing the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at various passages from the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts.

His focus will be on three areas:
Luke’s Background
Looking for clues in the passages
The importance of church history

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

CHECK FOR CLUES:
What was so special about Lydia and Thessalonica? (Acts 16:39-17:1)
Why was Luke so specific in his writings? Why did he purposefully name people and sources? (Acts 20:3-6)
Was Luke with Paul when he was imprisoned? (Colossians 4:14)

CHURCH HISTORY:
Who was the church heretic Marcion? (Click on the link above and fast-forward to the 54-minute mark to view what Irenaeus of Lyon and Eusebius of Caesarea wrote in response to Marcion’s teachings.)
Was Luke qualified to write about the birth of Jesus?
Was Luke a note-taker?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 29, 2022

Title: Hearing the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at various passages from the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts.

His focus will be on three areas:
Luke’s Background
Looking for clues in the passages
The importance of church history

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

LUKE’S BACKGROUND:
What did Luke write at the beginning of his scroll? (Luke 1:1-4)
What did Luke write at the end of his scroll? (Luke 24:50-53)
What was the beginning of Luke’s next scroll? (Acts 1:1-3)
How did they all tie together and explain his background?

CHECK FOR CLUES:
Why did the author of Acts use “we”, “they”, and “them” terms? Who was he referring to? (Acts 16:6-12) Mark shares an illustration of a map of the region. (Click on the link above and fast-forward to the 42-minute mark.)

Mark also discusses Acts 16:39-17:1. What was so special about Lydia and Thessalonica? More on this tomorrow…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 28, 2022

Title: Hearing the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at various passages from the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts.

His focus will be on three areas:
Luke’s Background
Looking for clues in the passages
The importance of church history

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:


Were books available for Luke to read and write? Or did he have to use a scroll? How long were they? What were they made of?

Why are copywrite laws important? Did Luke plagiarize others?

SIDE BAR: Why do many secular scholars attribute Christianity to the rise of books?

LUKE’S BACKGROUND:

Who wrote the Gospel of Luke? Who wrote the Book of Acts? Mark discusses the title, clues, and history… He will reveal the answer on Friday!

Tune in tomorrow as Mark continues to discuss Luke 1:1-4

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 27, 2022

Title: Hearing the Gospel of Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at various passages from the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts.

His focus will be on three areas:
Luke’s Background
Looking for clues in the passages
The importance of church history

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:


Why does Mark want us to really “hear” the Gospel of Luke? Mark reminisces about listening to loud music when he grew up. He also talks briefly about a military case involving hearing aids that he is trying right now and why he loves grocery stores so much. Yes – grocery stores.

What was a marketplace like in Luke’s era? What does Mark think Luke would be shopping for?

Were books available for Luke to read and write? Or did he have to use a scroll? How long were they? What were they made of? Mark will continue this interesting explanation tomorrow…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 24, 2022

Title: Lesson 18: Various Passages from Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Scott Riling
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 5

Pastor Scott Riling subs in for Mark Lanier this week with more Snapshots of Jesus examining different passages from the Gospel of LUKE.

His focus will be on three areas:
The kindness of God.
The strength of God.
The loyalty of God.

To view Pastor Scott Riling’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

THE STRENGTH OF GOD: LUKE 18:18-27
How did Paul rely on the strength of God?
Would it have been super easy for Paul to give up and just quit – or even die?
Who did Paul give all the glory to?
Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:13

THE LOYALTY OF GOD: LUKE 22:32
Was Peter loyal to God? How did Jesus respond to Peter’s disloyalty?
Was Peter sorry? Did he ask for forgiveness?
Have we all been “Peter” at one time?
How is Jesus loyal to US? Why does he intercede on our behalf?
Why is God loyal to US? We don’t deserve it! But he is 100% loyal ALWAYS.
How is YOUR loyalty to God? Could your loyalty use a boost? Soak up the Scriptures!

Scripture References: Hebrews 7:25; Luke 6:35-36


POINTS FOR HOME:
Always be kind.
Walk in the strength and wisdom of God.
Be loyal to a fault.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 23, 2022

Title: Lesson 18: Various Passages from Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Scott Riling
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 4

Pastor Scott Riling subs in for Mark Lanier this week with more Snapshots of Jesus examining different passages from the Gospel of LUKE.

His focus will be on three areas:
The kindness of God.
The strength of God.
The loyalty of God.

To view Pastor Scott Riling’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

THE STRENGTH OF GOD: LUKE 18:18-27

Does Scripture say that God will not give you more than you can handle? NOPE! He will, however, give you the strength to handle anything!

What can we learn from others about the strength of the Lord? Pastor Riling uses Paul as an example…

Why is important to recognize and announce our weaknesses?

Should we also rely on the strength of others to help us?

Pastor Riling reminds us that “God is not the God of the gaps”. In other words, God is not just there when we need Him. He is there ALWAYS! Go to Him with EVERYTHING, especially with your thankfulness and praise.

Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Corinthians 12:9; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 12:2; 1 John 15:5

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 22, 2022

Title: Lesson 18: Various Passages from Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Scott Riling
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 4

Pastor Scott Riling subs in for Mark Lanier this week with more Snapshots of Jesus examining different passages from the Gospel of LUKE.

His focus will be on three areas:
The kindness of God.
The strength of God.
The loyalty of God.

To view Pastor Scott Riling’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

THE KINDNESS OF GOD: LUKE 6:32-36
Are these verses often misinterpreted and/or misunderstood?
How can we begin to really love everyone like Christ does?
Why is God so kind to us? Do we deserve nothing but punishment and death from Him?
How did David show kindness to others like God showed to him?
What parables did Jesus talk about the kindness of his Father God? (Luke 15)
Why does Pastor Riling call the Parable of the Prodigal Son the “Story of the Loving Father”?
How can God deliver justice and discipline while also being kind and merciful?

THE STRENGTH OF GOD: LUKE 18:18-27
Why did the rich young man ask Jesus about heaven?
When he heard Jesus’ answer, why did he become sad?

Scripture Reference: 2 Samuel 9:1-8

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 21, 2022

Title: Lesson 18: Various Passages from Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Scott Riling
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 2

Pastor Scott Riling subs in for Mark Lanier this week with more Snapshots of Jesus examining different passages from the Gospel of LUKE.

His focus will be on three areas:
The kindness of God.
The strength of God.
The loyalty of God.

To view Pastor Scott Riling’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

THE KINDNESS OF GOD: LUKE 6:32-36

Who does God show kindness and mercy to? Just good people? Just really, really good people? Do murderers deserve kindness and mercy?

Are there many ways to heaven – many ways to be saved? SHORT ANSWER: Nope. Just one.

If God is kind and loving, why is there evil in the world? Pastor Riling talks briefly about the Collins funeral that was held at CFBC last week. He also offers some perspectives.

Do you really love everyone like Christ does? Really? Everyone??? Think about it…

How can we begin to really love everyone like Christ does?

Are these verses often misinterpreted and/or misunderstood?

Scripture References: John 6:44

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 20, 2022

Title: Lesson 18: Various Passages from Luke
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Pastor Scott Riling
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 1

Pastor Scott Riling subs in for Mark Lanier this week with more Snapshots of Jesus examining different passages from the Gospel of LUKE.

His focus will be on three areas:
The kindness of God.
The strength of God.
The loyalty of God.

To view Pastor Scott Riling’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

THE KINDNESS OF GOD: LUKE 6:32-36
How is the kindness of God interpreted by different people? Is God only concerned about justice and discipline? Is God only a nice and loving God?
What does the kindness of God mean to you?
Who was Johnathan Edwards (1703-1758)? What did he say about God? Was he right? Is his perspective the only perspective?
What is predestination? If the predestination of God is fact, then how can man have free will?
Who does God show kindness and mercy to? Just good people? Just really, really good people? Do murderers deserve kindness and mercy?

Scripture References: Deuteronomy 7:6; Romans 8:29-30; Romans 9:14-16; John 6:44

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 10, 2022

Title: “Problem” Passages from the Gospel of Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

As he continues in the Snapshots of Jesus series, Mark Lanier looks at random passages from the Gospel of Matthew that class members asked him to examine and explain.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

MATTHEW 5:21
Mark got an email from a class member asking about murder and abortion. Is there a difference?

NOTE: Mark got this email the day before the tragedy in Uvalde. In answer to this question, he discusses abortion, war, and murder using Genesis 9:6 and the painting of Mona Lisa.

MATTHEW 18:15-18
Why are relationships so important?
Does God care about relationships?
Are forgiveness and accountability in relationships important?
Is it okay to stand up for ourselves?
What does “whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, ad whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven” mean?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 9, 2022

Title: “Problem” Passages from the Gospel of Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

As he continues in the Snapshots of Jesus series, Mark Lanier looks at random passages from the Gospel of Matthew that class members asked him to examine and explain.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

MATTHEW 27:51-53
Why did Matthew include “and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised”? Did Mark write about this? Did this really happen? Mark reminds us that God made the rules. He can do anything He wants to do! What does the name Zechariah mean? How does Zechariah 14:1-5 help us understand the life, crucifixion, and resurrection of Christ?

MATTHEW 18:1-5
Some translations say “welcome” and some say “receives”. What is the difference? Which is correct? Were children usually welcomed and received during this time?

Scripture Reference: Luke 18:7

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 8, 2022

Title: “Problem” Passages from the Gospel of Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

As he continues in the Snapshots of Jesus series, Mark Lanier looks at random passages from the Gospel of Matthew that class members asked him to examine and explain.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Why is it important to keep an open mind when studying the Bible? Mark explains that God could have different reasons for the way He has planned things!
Discussed on Tuesday: Reason #1: God tore the separation between God and His people (Hebrews 9:1-8)
Discussed on Tuesday: Reason #2: God tore the separation between the Jew and the Gentile (Mark 15:39)

TODAY:
Reason #3: The temple is being destroyed (Matthew 26:61)
Reason #4: God broke forth from His temple (Matthew 27:53-54; Matthew 3:16)
Reason #5: The anger of God over the death of Jesus (2 Samuel 22:7-8; Nahum 1:3-6)

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 7, 2022

Title: “Problem” Passages from the Gospel of Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

As he continues in the Snapshots of Jesus series, Mark Lanier looks at random passages from the Gospel of Matthew that class members asked him to examine and explain.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

MATTHEW 27:51-53
Did Matthew have access to the Gospel of Mark when he wrote his gospel? Mark compares this passage to Mark 15:38.
It is well-known that men and women were separated in the temple. But why were some men separated from other men?
Why was the curtain torn in two? Mark explains some of the many different scholarly opinions.
What does “heuristics” mean?

Why is it important to keep an open mind when studying the Bible? Mark explains that God could have different reasons for the way He has planned things!
Reason #1: God tore the separation between God and His people (Hebrews 9:1-8)
Reason #2: God tore the separation between the Jew and the Gentile (Mark 15:39)

Tune in tomorrow for reasons #3, 4, and 5…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 6, 2022

Title: “Problem” Passages from the Gospel of Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

As he continues in the Snapshots of Jesus series, Mark Lanier looks at random passages from the Gospel of Matthew that class members asked him to examine and explain.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

MATTHEW 27:51-53
What was Matthew writing about in these verses?
Why did Matthew begin with “and behold”? Mark has a great explanation for this…
Did Matthew have access to the Gospel of Mark when he wrote his gospel? Mark compares this passage to Mark 15:38. He will finish this explanation in tomorrow’s segment.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 3, 2022

Title: What’s in a Name? Interview with Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

What is a name? What is the purpose of names? What do our names reflect? Why were names so important in Biblical times and why did people often change their name?

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a special interview with New Testament scholars Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes. They will be discussing several different passages in the Gospel of Matthew about the importance of names.

Click here for more information about Dr. Simon Gathercole.

Click here for more information about Dr. David Capes.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

PASSAGES ON NAMES: Matthew 20:30
In the Greek translation of this verse, the word Lord is in “brackets”. Dr. Gathercole explains why…

Why is it important to really understand the original translation of the Bible? Mark is here to help! That’s why he does this Biblical Literacy class and opens his Theological Library to the public.

Dr. David Capes also offers his expert opinion on this verse, reminding us of the Psalms, specifically Psalm 123.

How did the people know Jesus was the Son of David? Dr. Gathercole answers this question…

Mark closes the lesson with a short comment on Matthew 21:9.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 2, 2022

Title: What’s in a Name? Interview with Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

What is a name? What is the purpose of names? What do our names reflect? Why were names so important in Biblical times and why did people often change their name?

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a special interview with New Testament scholars Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes. They will be discussing several different passages in the Gospel of Matthew about the importance of names.

Click here for more information about Dr. Simon Gathercole.

Click here for more information about Dr. David Capes.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

How does the Old Testament help us understand Jesus? Mark discusses the book of Hebrews. Dr. David Capes discusses the word “salvation”

PASSAGES ON NAMES: Matthew 2:23
Why was Jesus called a Nazarene? Was this mentioned in the Old Testament?
Dr. David Capes believes this is an “interesting” verse and shares a funny story. He also reads from Isaiah 11:1 and explains why people would cut down trees when they left their homes in Biblical times, using the cult leader David Koresh as an example.

Did Jesus really exist? Mark reads from Jeremiah 31:6 and quotes CS Lewis. He also offers a warning and plea to all Christians.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

June 1, 2022

Title: What’s in a Name? Interview with Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

What is a name? What is the purpose of names? What do our names reflect? Why were names so important in Biblical times and why did people often change their name?

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a special interview with New Testament scholars Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes. They will be discussing several different passages in the Gospel of Matthew about the importance of names.

Click here for more information about Dr. Simon Gathercole.

Click here for more information about Dr. David Capes.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

PASSAGES ON NAMES: Matthew 1:21
Dr. Capes discusses how the latter part of this verse sets up the rest of the Gospels.
Dr. Gathercole discusses the importance of the word “people” in this verse.

PASSAGES ON NAMES: Matthew 1:23
Why did Matthew use a specific “formula” when he wrote this verse?
What does the name “Emmanuel” mean? Dr. Gathercole answers this question. He also corrects Mark in how it is actually pronounced (in a loving, funny way). Dr. Capes also offers his interpretation and discusses “another child” named Emmanuel.
Mark discusses why we often tend to be bias in our thinking, especially if we grew up in church. He stresses the importance of keeping an open mind when hearing opposite points of views. Dr. Gathercole agrees, using the book of Hebrews as an example.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 31, 2022

Title: What’s in a Name? Interview with Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

What is a name? What is the purpose of names? What do our names reflect? Why were names so important in Biblical times and why did people often change their name?

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a special interview with New Testament scholars Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes. They will be discussing several different passages in the Gospel of Matthew about the importance of names.

Click here for more information about Dr. Simon Gathercole.

Click here for more information about Dr. David Capes.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Dr. David Capes:
When did he begin to study Greek?
Did Dr. Capes grow up in a Christian faith? He has an interesting story in answer this question…
What sport did he play growing up? Did he have an ambition to play pro-ball?

Dr. Simon Gathercole:
What was his dissertation about? He discusses the “new perspective on Paul”.

PASSAGES ON NAMES: Matthew 1:21
Dr. Gathercole discusses how and why Jesus was given his name and poses some questions Mary and Joseph and others may have had at that time. Mark uses some Hebrew and Greek, discussing the name of Jesus.
Does this passage really say that Jesus is Yahweh?
Dr. Gathercole calls this verse “a trailer” for the rest of the Gospels. Mark admits that he is following the Amber Heard/Johnny Depp trial…
Dr. Capes calls this verse a “common denominator”, saying: “Through Jesus, God will save His people.”

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 30, 2022

Title: What’s in a Name? Interview with Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

What is a name? What is the purpose of names? What do our names reflect? Why were names so important in Biblical times and why did people often change their name?

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a special interview with New Testament scholars Dr. Simon Gathercole and Dr. David Capes. They will be discussing several different passages in the Gospel of Matthew about the importance of names.

Click here for more information about Dr. Simon Gathercole.

Click here for more information about Dr. David Capes.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Mark begins the lesson with an introduction of the importance of names using some lyrics from the song by Jim Croce “I Got a Name” and CB Radios as examples.

Dr. Simon Gathercole:
Where did he go to university and what did he study?
Did he grow up in a Christian home?
When did Dr. Gathercole realize that there was more to life? (In other words, when did he find Christ?) He says that Revelation 3:20 really opened his eyes. Has he had any challenges to his faith?
Why did he decide to study Greek?

Dr. David Capes:
When did he begin to study Greek?
More with Dr. Capes tomorrow…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 27, 2022

Title: Friends, Vegetables, and Moving
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Do you find some things just “odd”? Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at some “odd” Scripture passages from the Gospel of Matthew.

The focus this week is on:
Friends
Vegetables
Moving
Plus – A bonus on Friday!

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Mark reminds us that Jesus will never turn us away. Jesus will never tell us “tough luck”. He is our FRIEND! He wants us to come to him with everything!

BONUS: MATTHEW 20:20-22
Why did a mama bring her grown sons (James and John) to Jesus? What was her request? Was request “odd”?
Mark tells a funny story about one of his daughters who wanted to inherit the law firm…
What did Jesus ask the sons?
You have probably asked God for many things. Mark reminds us that God ALWAYS answers our prayers, but the answer isn’t always what we want to hear.

POINTS FOR HOME:
The coolest person EVER is YOUR friend.
Get in the Word. Journal. Pray. Never stop growing.
Approach Jesus. Kneel before him. Ask him to take care of you!

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 26, 2022

Title: Friends, Vegetables, and Moving
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Do you find some things just “odd”? Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at some “odd” Scripture passages from the Gospel of Matthew.

The focus this week is on:
Friends
Vegetables
Moving
Plus – A bonus on Friday!

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

How has Mark’s faith grown over the years? Mark reminds us that God WANTS our faith to grow.

MOVING: MATTHEW 8:1-3
What is leprosy? Why was it so bad back then? What were people required to do if their leprosy was healed? Did others “social distance” from lepers?
Why did Jesus TOUCH the leper and heal him?
What does Mark find “odd” about these verses?
Why were the crowds following Jesus when he came down from the mountain?
What is the significance of the leper “approaching” Jesus? Was he worshipping Jesus?

Book Reference: “The Phantom Tollbooth” by Norton Juster

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 25, 2022

Title: Friends, Vegetables, and Moving
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Do you find some things just “odd”? Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at some “odd” Scripture passages from the Gospel of Matthew.

The focus this week is on:
Friends
Vegetables
Moving
Plus – A bonus on Friday!

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

VEGETABLES: MATTHEW 13:31-32
Why does Mark find these verses “odd”?
How is the Kingdom of God like a grain of mustard seed? Mark offers some fun facts about the mustard seed and the mustard tree…
Why did Matthew write so often about the Kingdom of Heaven?
When Jesus began his ministry, the crowds were tiny. Then the crowds grew and grew. Then, suddenly, they were small again. After his death and resurrection, the crowds grew again. Mark explains why he finds this interesting…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 24, 2022

Title: Friends, Vegetables, and Moving
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Do you find some things just “odd”? Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at some “odd” Scripture passages from the Gospel of Matthew.

The focus this week is on:
Friends
Vegetables
Moving
Plus – A bonus on Friday!

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

FRIENDS: MATTHEW 11:16-19
What part of these verses does Mark find so odd? HINT: It’s not about Jesus drinking wine!
What does “friend” mean? Mark quotes Aristotle: “A single soul dwelling in two bodies.” The quote can be found in the book by Diogenes Laertius “The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers”.
Why were tax collectors hated so much?
Who were “sinners”? Mark reminds us of Moses and the Promised Land.
What is the difference between wisdom and knowledge?
Why is it important to have good friends?

What are you like when you are at your worse? Do people still like you when you are behaving badly? Did you know that JESUS still loves you – even when you’re not at your best?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 23, 2022

Title: Friends, Vegetables, and Moving
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Do you find some things just “odd”? Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at some “odd” Scripture passages from the Gospel of Matthew.

The focus this week is on:
Friends
Vegetables
Moving
Plus – A bonus on Friday!

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Mark gives a little teaser about his new book being released soon…

FRIENDS: MATTHEW 11:16-19
What did Jesus mean when he compared the people to children?
Was it odd that Jesus even talked about children?
Was Jesus talking in “hyperbole”? Or was he simply telling the truth?
What did the people accuse John the Baptist of? What did they accuse Jesus of? Were the accusations true?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 20, 2022

Title: Give, Pray, and Fast in Secret
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at how Jesus instructed us to give, pray, and fast. Mark sums it up this way: “This is manners. This is how we should behave.”

Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:1-18

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Yesterday, Mark shared why fasting is important to the Christian life. He even admitted that had a hard time with fasting at one time. Today, he concludes his lesson on three of Jesus’ warnings on giving, praying, and fasting with his Points for Home.

POINTS FOR HOME:
Give right. Do it out of character. Do it because it is righteous.
Pray right. Don’t pray for the people listening. Pray for the One who is listening.
Fast right. Don’t tell anyone about it! Do it for the right reasons.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 19, 2022

Title: Give, Pray, and Fast in Secret
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at how Jesus instructed us to give, pray, and fast. Mark sums it up this way: “This is manners. This is how we should behave.”

Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:1-18

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Yesterday, Mark discussed the importance of praying in secret, unlike the Jews and hypocrites. Today, he continues with these verses and also teaches on fasting.

APPLICATION FOR PRAYING: Matthew 6:5-15

What is the significance of Jesus saying: “the Father who sees in secret will reward you”? Mark references Romans 2:28-29. How does God want us to pray? Mark believes this is a complicated question with a complicated answer… How did Jesus instruct the people to pray? Why should we pray in secret? What is the Lord’s Prayer? (verses 9-13)

APPLICATION FOR FASTING: Matthew 6:16-18

Many Christians are not big on fasting. Mark admits that he had trouble with fasting, too, at one time. Why is it important, though? What was Jesus’ warning to the people about fasting like the hypocrites?

Book Reference: “Celebration of Discipline” by Richard Foster

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 18, 2022

Title: Give, Pray, and Fast in Secret
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at how Jesus instructed us to give, pray, and fast. Mark sums it up this way: “This is manners. This is how we should behave.”

Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:1-18

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Yesterday, Mark taught about Jesus’ command on giving. Today, he discusses the “how” and “why” about giving and then moves on to the manner in which we should pray.

APPLICATION FOR GIVING: Matthew 6:2-4
Why did Jesus command Christians to give to the needy?
More importantly, why did Jesus command Christians to give in secret?
How are we to do this?

APPLICATION FOR PRAYING: Matthew 6:5-15
Why did Jesus warn the people to not be like the “hypocrites”?
How often did Jews pray every day? What did they pray? Why did they usually pray standing up?
What is the significance of Jesus saying: “the Father who sees in secret will reward you”? Mark references Romans 2:28-29.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 17, 2022

Title: Give, Pray, and Fast in Secret
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at how Jesus instructed us to give, pray, and fast. Mark sums it up this way: “This is manners. This is how we should behave.”

Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:1-18

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Yesterday, Mark shared the meaning behind Matthew 6:1 and why it’s important to live a solid-wood kind of Christian life. Today, he shares the “how” and the “why”.

INSTRUCTION: Matthew 6:1

Why should we beware of HOW and WHY we tell others about Jesus? Will good works “get us into heaven”? Will righteousness “get us into heaven”? Mark references a Billy Joel song “Only the Good Die Young” (which is actually NOT a good song!) He also shares about the good, the bad, and the ugly that he has witnessed in life.

APPLICATION FOR GIVING: Matthew 6:2-4

Why did Jesus command Christians to give to the needy? More importantly, why did Jesus command Christians to give in secret? Tune in tomorrow as Mark shares more about the “how” and “why” we are to give to the needy.


For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here.

May 16, 2022

Title: Give, Pray, and Fast in Secret
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a look at how Jesus instructed us to give, pray, and fast. Mark sums it up this way: “This is manners. This is how we should behave.”

Scripture Passage: Matthew 6:1-18

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

Questions/Issues Discussed:

INSTRUCTION: Matthew 6:1

What did Jesus mean when he told the people to “beware”? What do we think of when we hear the word “beware”?

How do you act on a day-to-day basis? Are you different around work people than you are when you’re around church people?

What does God expect from us? Mark uses his grandkids and ice cream cones as an example…

Are you living a solid-wood kind of Christian life? Or are you living a veneer kind of Christian life? Mark shares about a dear friend who recently passed away and how this man always lived a solid-wood kind of Christian life.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 13, 2022

Title: Comparing Mark and Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great reminder this week that God’s Word is intentional and purposeful, comparing the Gospels of Mark and Matthew.

Mark’s focus this week:
Explore the context
Consider the passages
Applying the context to our lives

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Book Reference: “Messengers: Who We Listen To, Who We Don’t, and Why” by Stephen Martin and Joseph Marks

APPLYING THE CONTEXT TO OUR LIVES

Do you love others as Christ loves you? Always? Or only when someone is watching? Or only “some” people?

Mark shares a great story from a case that lasted a decade. What made this case so memorable was a “game” the lawyers played during a “meeting”. The “game” was telling each other about the best concert they ever attended. Mark countered with the great passage from Matthew 20:30-34 when Jesus healed two blind men. What was the lawyers’ reaction to the story?

Do you ever miss out on an opportunity to witness to someone or help a person in need because you are too wrapped up in your own world?

Points to Ponder:
God loves me
God loves you
God is at work

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 12, 2022

Title: Comparing Mark and Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great reminder this week that God’s Word is intentional and purposeful, comparing the Gospels of Mark and Matthew.

Mark’s focus this week:
Explore the context
Consider the passages
Applying the context to our lives

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Remember: It doesn’t matter what you have done in your past. If you ask Jesus to forgive you, he will! Even Putin isn’t beyond redemption!

CONSIDER THE PASSAGES:
How did Satan tempt Jesus? What was Jesus’ response? (Matthew 4:8-10)
Who was David? Were the Jews confused about who David was? (Matthew 22:41-45 – a quote from Psalm 110:44)
Are we living in the End Times?
Why did Matthew stress the importance of believing in Jesus as the Son of Man? (Matthew 8:10-12)

Do you love others as Christ loves you? Always? Or only when someone is watching? Or only “some” people?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 11, 2022

Title: Comparing Mark and Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great reminder this week that God’s Word is intentional and purposeful, comparing the Gospels of Mark and Matthew.

Mark’s focus this week:
Explore the context
Consider the passages
Applying the context to our lives

Questions/Issues Discussed:

EXPLORE THE CONTEXT:
Yesterday, Mark referenced several Scripture passages to help explain why it’s important to understand why the author of the Book of Mark knew the region so well. (Mark 7:11-14; Mark 15:34; Mark 7:2-3; Mark 12:18; Mark 3:17)

TODAY:
How is the Gospel of Mark different than the other Gospels? Mark explains using different translations and Scripture passages. (Mark 6:27)
Why did Matthew expect his audience to know Judaism? Mark compares Mark 7:1-13 with Matthe 15:1-9.
Why did Matthew start the genealogy of Jesus with Abraham?

CONSIDER THE PASSAGES:
Why did Matthew end his Gospel so abruptly? Was he trying to get a point across to the people? (Matthew 28:18-20)
How did Satan tempt Jesus? What was Jesus’ response? (Matthew 4:8-10)

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 10, 2022

Title: Comparing Mark and Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great reminder this week that God’s Word is intentional and purposeful, comparing the Gospels of Mark and Matthew.

Mark’s focus this week:
Explore the context
Consider the passages
Applying the context to our lives

Questions/Issues Discussed:

NOTE: Click here to register for the FREE lecture on May 21 with Simon Gathercole, Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity and Director of Studies in Theology at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge.

EXPLORE THE CONTEXT:
Why did the people of the Early Church think that Jesus was coming back any day? Did Paul make this same assumption?
Which of the four Gospels was written first?
How did Matthew know what to write in his Gospel?
What language did he write in?
Who wrote the book of Mark? Why was it written? Who was the targeted audience?
Why is it important to understand that the author of the Book of Mark knew the region? (Mark 7:11-14; Mark 15:34; Mark 7:2-3; Mark 12:18; Mark 3:17)

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 9, 2022

Title: Comparing Mark and Matthew
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier continues the Snapshots of Jesus series with a great reminder this week that God’s Word is intentional and purposeful, comparing the Gospels of Mark and Matthew.

Mark’s focus this week:
Explore the context
Consider the passages
Applying the context to our lives

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Mark begins the lesson with some history about nursery rhymes, explaining that context matters.

EXPLORE THE CONTEXT:
Mark shares a map and timeline of the region before and during the life of Paul.
Where did Paul do his mission work? (Read Acts)
When and where did Paul and Peter die? How did the die?
When were the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke written?
Mark offers a hypothetical of how he would have ordained the timeline. Was this God’s plan?
Why did the people of the Early Church think that Jesus was coming back any day?

Book Reference: “The Secret History of Nursery Rhymes” by Linda Alchin

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 6, 2022

Title: A Boxing Match
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Mark Lanier compares the focused Scripture this week to a boxing match. In the Red Corner, there are the “religious dudes” and in the Blue Corner, there is a “pagan lady”.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 15:1-28

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Does God really test us to make us stronger?

Who was the pagan Canaanite woman Jesus met in the district of Tyre and Sidon? What did she request of Jesus? What was his response to her at first? Did the disciples want to get rid of her? Mark admits that his opinion on this part of the passage is not popular.

Do you have faith like the pagan Canaanite woman?

Points to Ponder:
Why do you come to Jesus?
Are you a hypocrite?
What is coming out of your heart?
How do you handle God’s tests?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 5, 2022

Title: A Boxing Match
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark Lanier compares the focused Scripture this week to a boxing match. In the Red Corner, there are the “religious dudes” and in the Blue Corner, there is a “pagan lady”.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 15:1-28

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Trick Question: Is it better to ignore or pay attention to Jesus?

When Jesus heard that the Pharisees were offended, what did he say? Was Jesus concerned that he offended them? Mark explains what the Pharisees’ purpose was and why Jesus said what he said.

Who was the Canaanite pagan woman Jesus met in the district of Tyre and Sidon? What did she request of Jesus? What was his response to her at first? Did the disciples want to get rid of her? Mark admits that his opinion on this part of the passage is not popular.

Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 20:12

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 4, 2022

Title: A Boxing Match
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Mark Lanier compares the focused Scripture this week to a boxing match. In the Red Corner, there are the “religious dudes” and in the Blue Corner, there is a “pagan lady”.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 15:1-28

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

What does “hypocrite” mean? Mark quotes FF Bruce: “There are religious actors still and they draw good houses.”

Side Bar/Question: Did Jesus speak Greek, as well as Aramaic and Hebrew? Mark believes that this passage in Matthew indicates that he did!

Why did Jesus call the Pharisees and scribes hypocrites?

When Jesus heard that the Pharisees were offended, what was his epic response? Mark will continue this explanation tomorrow.

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 3, 2022

Title: A Boxing Match
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Mark Lanier compares the focused Scripture this week to a boxing match. In the Red Corner, there are the “religious dudes” and in the Blue Corner, there is a “pagan lady”.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 15:1-28

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Why were Jews so strict about laws and rules?

Was it normal for Jesus to talk about certain laws and rules from the Torah? Was it common for people, especially leaders, to question him concerning laws and rules?

What was Jesus’ response when the Pharisees and scribes questioned the disciples’ disregard of a traditional commandment? Mark explains the difference between a Biblical commandment and traditional commandment.

What does “hypocrite” mean? Mark will continue with this explanation tomorrow.

Scripture Reference: Exodus 16:29; Exodus 20:12; Exodus 21:17

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

May 2, 2022

Title: A Boxing Match
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier compares the focused Scripture this week to a boxing match. In the Red Corner, there are the “religious dudes” and in the Blue Corner, there is a “pagan lady”.

Scripture Reference: Matthew 15:1-28

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Who were the “religious dudes”?

What was the issue they brought before Jesus concerning the disciples?

What is the significance of the pharisees and scribes traveling from Jerusalem to Galilee?

Mark reads from Exodus 16:29 and also explains why Jews were so strict about laws and rules. He will continue with his explanation tomorrow…

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

April 22, 2022

Title: Holy Week
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

This week, we are sharing Mark Lanier’s lesson from Palm Sunday. He is still in his Snapshots of Jesus series, but will be teaching from all four Gospels, not just Matthew, in addition to using some Old Testament references, explaining what each day of Holy Week means and why we celebrate it.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

MAUNDY THURSDAY: John 13:4-9

Mark admits that he has always thought “maundy” was a funny word and shares a story from his childhood to explain…

What does “maundy” mean, though? Is it actually pretty important?

Why did Jesus rise from supper, wrap a towel around his waist, and wash the disciples’ feet? Remember: Only slaves washed people’s feet, so this act being performed by Jesus was extremely confusing to the disciples, especially Simon Peter.

Points to Ponder:
Stand amazed
Meet Jesus
Prepare for Easter

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

April 21, 2022

Title: Holy Week
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

This week, we are sharing Mark Lanier’s lesson from Palm Sunday. He is still in his Snapshots of Jesus series, but will be teaching from all four Gospels, not just Matthew, in addition to using some Old Testament references, explaining what each day of Holy Week means and why we celebrate it.

To view Mark Lanier’s video for this lesson, click here.

If you have a prayer request, need Scripture encouragement, or would like a copy of Mark’s lessons each week, email wantmore@biblical-literacy.org

Questions/Issues Discussed:

Did Jesus really take on the sins of every human? Was this “just”? Mark began his explanation for this yesterday using Isaiah 53:7-8.

ASH WEDNESDAY: John 12:1-8; Genesis 3:15

What are the two ways Ash Wednesday is celebrated in the Church?

Why did Martha wipe Jesus’ feet with her hair?

What is the significance of Mary using a POUND of ointment? Mark explains a pun that is lost in translation in the John passage…

Why did Judas chastise Mary for “wasting” the ointment?

What was Jesus’ response to Judas?

For more information about Mark Lanier’s Biblical Literacy class, click here

April 20, 2022

Title: Holy Week
Topic: Snapshots of Jesus

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3