Bible school - MS3

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 1: Choosing Joshua

Introduction:

Author: Joshua, whose name means "salvation"

Date: Initially written after entering Canaan (6th century BC)

Major Theme:

Outline:

  1. Conquest of the Promised Land (Chapters 1-12)

  2. Division of the Promised Land among the Israelites (Chapters 13-22)

  3. Conclusion of Joshua’s Ministry (Chapters 23-24)

Book of Joshua Chapters 1-2

Objective: 

Resources:

Reading:

Chapter 1&2

Key verse(s):

"Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go." Joshua 1:7

Comments:

Chapter 1 explains the role of God in achieving salvation and the role of the servant and the people in it.

Chapter 2

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

 

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 2: Crossing the Jordan

Book of Joshua Chapters 3 & 4

Objective: 

Resources:

Reading:

Chapters 3 & 4

Key verse(s):

"Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth is crossing over before you into the Jordan." Joshua 3:11

Comments:

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Here’s the chronological order of events from the beginning of the book until now:

  1. God commanded Joshua to prepare for the departure to cross the Jordan on the third day of Nisan or a few days earlier (Joshua 1:11).
  2. Joshua sent the spies on the third day of Nisan, and they stayed that night at Rahab's house (Joshua 2:1).
  3. The spies hid in the mountains for three days: the 4th, 5th, and 6th of Nisan (Joshua 2:22).
  4. The spies returned to Joshua on the 6th of Nisan (Joshua 2:23).
  5. The leaders of the people were instructed to gather supplies on the 7th of Nisan and were informed that they would cross the Jordan in three days (Joshua 1:10-11).
  6. They moved from Shittim to the Jordan River on the 9th of Nisan and camped there (Joshua 3:1).
  7. They crossed the Jordan River on the 10th of Nisan (Joshua 4:19).

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 3: The Destruction of Jericho

Book of Joshua Chapters 5 & 6

Objective: 

The Destruction of Jericho

Resources:

Reading:

Book of Joshua Chapters 5 & 6

Key verse(s):

"And the seventh time it happened, when the priests blew the trumpets, that Joshua said to the people: “Shout, for the Lord has given you the city! . Joshua 6:16

Comments:

Chapter 5

Chapter 6 

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 4: Ai

Book of Joshua Chapters 7-8

Objective: 

The Fall of Ai

Resources:

Reading:

Book of Joshua chapters 7& 8

Key verse(s):

"Get up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves for tomorrow, because thus says the Lord God of Israel: “There is an accursed thing in your midst, O Israel; you cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the accursed thing from among you.” Joshua 7:13

Comments:

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 5: The War Against Five Kings

Book of Joshua chapters 9-10

Objective: 

Resources:

Reading:

Key verse(s):

Comments:

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 6: The Conquest

The Conquest chapter 11-12

Objective: 

Resources:

Reading:

Key verse(s):

"As the Lord commanded his servant Moses, so Moses commanded Joshua, and Joshua did it; he left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses." Joshua 11:15 (This verse reflects Joshua’s obedience to God's commands)

Comments:

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 7: The Division of the Land

Book of Joshua chapters 14-19

Objective: 

The division of the land

Resources:

Reading:

Chapters 14-19

Key verse(s):

Comments:

chapter 14

Chapters 15, 16, and 17 (skip)

Chapter 18

Skip chapter 19

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 8: Cities of Refuge

Book of Joshua chapters 20-21

Objective: 

Resources:

Reading:

Key verse(s):

Comments:

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 9: The Altar by the Jordan

Book of Joshua Chapter 22

Objective: 

Resources:

Reading:

Key verse(s):

Comments:

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

Unit 1: The Promise Land

Week 10: Joshua's Farewell and Death

Book of Joshua chapter 23-24

Objective: 

Resources:

Reading:

Key verse(s):

Comments:

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions

Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

Unit 2: Major Prophets (1)

Unit 2: Major Prophets (1)

Week 1: God calls Isaiah

Introduction + chapters 1&2 + 6


Introduction:

Author: Isaiah: A Hebrew word meaning "The salvation of God."

Date:

Major Theme:

Nature of the Book of Isaiah:

Outline:

Objective: Week 1 Isaiah chapters 1&2+6

Resources:

Reading:

Key verse(s):

"I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: "Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?" Then I said, "Here am I! Send me". Isaiah 6:8

Comments:

Chapter 1 

Chapter 2:

Chapter 6

Review/recap questions:
**Servant may add more questions


Homework:
**Servant may add more questions

  1. In whose reign was the prophecy of Isaiah?   a)Uzziah b) Ahaz c)Hezekiah, d) all of those
  2. Isaiah was                                                        a) a prophet b) a priest c) a Christian d) a king
  3.  "Holy, holy, holy is the _________ of hosts; The whole _________ is full of His __________"
  4.  Who had a live coal in his hand, which he took with tongs from the altar?                                                                a) Isaiah b) God c) the seraphim d) the cherubim
Unit 2: Major Prophets (1)

Week 2: Isaiah and the Exile - Part 1

36 +37 + 38 + 39 + 40 + 2Kings 24& 25

Week 2: Isaiah and the Exile- Part 1

The History of Humanity from Adam to the End of the World

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Introduction:

Author: Isaiah: A Hebrew word meaning "The salvation of God."

Date:

Major Theme:

Outline:

Objective: Week 2 Isaiah chapter 36-39

Resources:

Reading:

Key verse(s):

Comments:

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Review/recap questions:

**Servant may add more questions

Homework:

**Servant may add more questions

Unit 2: Major Prophets (1)

Week 3: Isaiah and the Exile - Part 2

36 +37 + 38 + 39 + 40 + 2Kings 24& 25

Week 3: Isaiah and the Exile- Part 2

The History of Humanity from Adam to the End of the World

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Introduction:

Author: Isaiah: A Hebrew word meaning "The salvation of God."

Date:

Major Theme:

Outline:

Isaiah

2 Kings

Author: The prophet Jeremiah

Date: Around 560 B.C, during the time of Merodach, the king of Babylon.

Outline: 

Objective: Week 3, Isaiah chapter 40 and 2 Kings chapters 24&25

Resources:

Reading:

Key verse(s):

 

Comments:

Isaiah chapter 40: 

2 Kings Chapter 24

2 Kings Chapter 25

 

Review/recap questions:

**Servant may add more questions

Homework:

**Servant may add more questions


Unit 2: Major Prophets (1)

Week 4: Isaiah's Messianic Prophecies


Week 4: Isaiah's Messianic Prophecies

The History of Humanity from Adam to the End of the World

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Introduction:

Author: Isaiah: A Hebrew word meaning "The salvation of God."

Date:

Major Theme:

Outline:

Isaiah

 

Objective: Week 4

Resources:

Reading:

Key verse(s):

Comments:

Isaiah chapter 51: 

 

Isaiah Chapter 52:

Isaiah Chapter 53:

Review/recap questions:

**Servant may add more questions

Homework:

**Servant may add more questions

 


Unit 3: Major Prophets (2)

Unit 3: Major Prophets (2)

Week1: The Call of Jeremiah and His Mission

Introduction and chapter 1

Week 1: The Call of Jeremiah and His Mission

The History of Humanity from Adam to the End of the World

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Introduction: Jeremiah the Prophet:

The Book of Jeremiah:

Author: The name Jeremiah means "Yahweh exalts," signifying that God glorifies.

Introduction:

Date:

Jeremiah the prophet lived during the reigns of several kings

How Did the Babylonian Captivity Happen?

The Babylonian captivity occurred in three stages: 

Objectives of the Book of Jeremiah:

Outline:

Reading:

The Book of Jeremiah: Chapter 1

Outline

Resources:

Key verse(s):

"They will fight against you, But they shall not prevail against you. For I am with you, says the Lord, to deliver you.." Jeremiah 1:19

Comments:

1. Introduction to the Prophet and the History of His Prophethood (1:1-3)

2. The Call of Jeremiah (1:4-10)

3. Vision of a Branch of Almond tree and the Boiling Pot (Jeremiah 1:11-16):

4. Jeremiah's Responsibility (1:17-19)

Review/recap questions:

**Servant may add more questions

Homework:

**Servant may add more questions

Unit 3: Major Prophets (2)

Week 2 - Jeremiah - Warnings about the coming exile and calls to repentance

Introduction: Jeremiah the Prophet:

 

Objectives of the Book of Jeremiah:

Outline:

Reading:

Review/recap questions:

**Servant may add more questions

Homework:

**Servant may add more questions

Unit 3: Major Prophets (2)

Week 3 - The Promise of return from Exile + Book of Lamentations

Introduction: Jeremiah the Prophet:

 

Outline:

Reading:

Review/recap questions:

**Servant may add more questions

Homework:

**Servant may add more questions

 
Unit 3: Major Prophets (2)

Week 4 - Baruch

Introduction:

Reading:

Resources:

Key verse(s):

Comments:

Review/recap questions:

**Servant may add more questions

Homework:

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Unit 4: Pauline 1

Romans- 4 weeks

Unit 4: Pauline 1

Week 1: Introduction to The Epistle to the Romans + Chapter 1 (The apostolic blessing and encouragement to the believers)

Week 1: Introduction to the book of Romans + Chapter 1 (The apostolic blessings and encouragement to the believers)


    1. How many epistles did St. Paul write in the New Testament?
      A. 12
      B. 13
      C. 14
      D. 15

    2. St. Paul is also known as:
      A. Apostle of the Jews
      B. Apostle of the Gentiles
      C. Apostle of Love
      D. Apostle of Miracles

    3. On which missionary journey did St. Paul write the Epistle to Romans?
      A. 1st Journey
      B. 2nd Journey
      C. 3rd Journey
      D. 4th Journey

    4. During St. Paul’s 3rd missionary journey, how many epistles did he write?
      A. 2
      B. 3
      C. 4
      D. 5


Unit 4: Pauline 1

Week 2: God's righteous judgment and justification by faith in Him

Week 2: God's righteous judgment and justification by faith in Him



  1. Introduction:

    1. Author: St. Paul

    2. Written to: believers in Rome

    3. Time of writing:

      1. 58 AD in Corinth, before Paul’s visit to Rome in 62 AD

    4. Purpose of the book

      1. The need for all people, Jews or Gentiles, to be justified by Christ.

      2. How a person can obtain justification and its blessings in life.

      3. The rejection of faith by many Jews is temporary, but some will return to faith in Christ after the Gentiles accept the faith.

      4. Basic teachings for practical Christian living.

      5. Care for those weak in faith and encourage them

  2. Outline

    1. The apostolic blessing and encouragement of the believers (Chapter 1).

    2. The need for all humanity to be justified by Christ, how they can receive it, and its blessings (Chapters 2–8).

    3. God chose the Gentiles just as He did to the Jews, who rejected Him but they will repent at the end of days (Chapters 9–11).

    4. Practical commandments for Christian behavior (Chapters 12–15).

    5. Paul’s fatherly care and his greetings to his beloved friends (Chapter 16).

  3. Reading:

    1. Chapters 2&3

  4. Resources:

    1. Bible Explanation of the Epistle to Romans - Fr. Daoud Lamei English
    2. The Epistle to Romans by Fr. Tadros Yacoub Malaty- English
  5. Key verse:

    1. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23

  6. Comments: Chapters 2&3

    1. Judging Others (Chapter 2: 1-3)

      1. St. Paul begins by warning anyone who believes that their knowledge and understanding of God’s law places them above others, leading them to judge others. He also reminds us that God's judgment is according to truth—not based on outward appearances but by examining the heart as well.

    2. God’s Judgment (Chapter 2: 4-11)

      1. Do you take lightly the riches of God’s kindness and patience for your sins?. God will judge everyone based on his/her deeds.

      2. Verse 6: This verse strongly declares that faith alone is not enough for salvation. Good works are essential (the doctrine of faith and works), which is a clear response to certain heresies that claim faith alone is sufficient for salvation.

        1. Matthew 16:27 “For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.”

    3. Conscience and the Law (Chapter 2: 12-16)

      1. How will God judge the Gentiles, even though they did not receive the Law of Moses like the Jews? What about children born to Gentile parents, who grew up without knowledge of Moses’ law?

        1. The answer is that God has given the Gentiles a natural law, which is the conscience.

      2. Conscience is the voice of God within a person, a moral compass, engraved on the hearts of all people.

    4. Judgment of the Jews (Chapter 2: 17-24)

      1. St. Paul criticizes the hypocrisy of believers from a Jewish background. They teach one thing but do another.

      2. They tell people to avoid sins like theft and adultery, and you preach against idolatry, yet they fall into the sin of stealing, committing adultery, etc.

        1. Contemplation: Examine yourself, so you do not become a stumbling block for others. Make sure that what you teach others, you first apply in your own life. This will make your teaching more powerful.

    5. Circumcision Does Not Justify (Chapter 2: 25-29)

      1. Circumcision is the act of purification for male infants, according to the Law of Moses, where the foreskin is removed on the eighth day after birth. God commanded Abraham, his descendants, and all the people of Israel to practice circumcision as a physical sign distinguishing them as God’s chosen people, set apart from the Gentiles.

      2. However, the one praised by God is not merely the one circumcised in body but the one with a circumcised heart—free from sin and iniquity

    6. Chapter 3: What is the Benefit of Circumcision? (Chapter 3: 1-4)

      1. St. Paul begins this chapter with a question: If following the law and being circumcised doesn’t guarantee justification and salvation, why did God command them in the first place?

        1. God’s Trust in the Jewish People: God entrusted the Jewish people with His commandments and promises.

        2. Human Failure Doesn’t Cancel God’s Truth: Even if some people are unfaithful and fail to live according to God’s commandments, that doesn’t make God’s law wrong.

        3. God’s Words Are Always True: God’s truth remains constant and powerful, no matter what people think.

    7. Does doing evil glorify God? (Chapter 3:5–8)

      1. St. Paul addresses a false argument “"If my sins show God’s righteousness and mercy more clearly, isn’t my sin a good thing?"

        1. The answer to this argument: Just because God can bring good out of evil doesn’t mean the evil itself is good. Sin is still sin and deserves judgment.

    8. The Sins of the Jews before Christ (Chapter 3: 9-20):

      1. "There is none who does good, no, not one" Before Christ's coming and crucifixion, no one was truly perfect or able to achieve full righteousness on their own. Even the righteous people of the Old Testament, despite their good deeds.

      2. When righteous individuals died before Christ’s crucifixion, they went to Hades. They were in a temporary state of waiting, not yet experiencing the fullness of salvation. Paradise was not available to them until Christ’s death and resurrection.

      3. This part shows the importance of Christ’s sacrifice in completing the work of salvation.

    9. Justification by God's Grace (Chapter 3:21-31)

      1. The righteousness of God revealed through the redemption of humanity, which occurred through the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross.

      2. Before Christ, people relied on the law, including practices like circumcision and animal sacrifices, to try to achieve righteousness and favor with God. However, with Christ’s work, established a new way of salvation based on faith in Him.

  7. Review/recap questions

    ** Servant may add more questions

      1. What warning does St. Paul give about judging others?
      2. How will God judge the Gentiles who do not have the Law of Moses?
      3. What is true circumcision according to St. Paul?
      4. How are people justified and saved after Christ’s resurrection—through the law or by grace?
  1. Homework

    ** Servant may add more questions

      1. Who does the Lord Jesus Christ favor the most among nations?
        a) Jews b) Greeks c) Romans d) none of these
      2. What are the rewards for everyone who does GOOD work? a) glory b) honor c) peace d) all of these
      3.  God is the God of whom? a) Jews only b) Gentiles only c) sinners only d) everyone
      4. What is God’s judgment based on—outward appearances or the heart?
      5. What law do Gentiles have in place of the Law of Moses?
      6. What is more important: physical circumcision or circumcision of the heart?
      7. Is faith alone enough for salvation?






Unit 4: Pauline 1

Week 3: Salvation Through Faith

Week 3: Christ the Righteous One: Salvation Through Faith

  1. Introduction:

  1. Homework

    ** Servant may add more questions

    1.  The Holy Scripture states "Abraham believed in God, and it was accounted to him for _____________."
      a) works b) righteousness c)grace d) spirituality

    2. What is the result of Jesus Christ's sacrifice according to Romans 5?
      A) It condemns all people
      B) It offers reconciliation and peace with God
      C) It brings judgment
      D) It ends the law

 


Unit 4: Pauline 1

Week 4: Christ Frees Me from the Law and Saves Me from Sin

Week 4: Christ Frees Me from the Law and Saves Me from Sin

    • The Role of Baptism in Justification (Romans 6: 1-10)

      • Verse 3: "Baptized into His death" – This means that through baptism, a person dies with Christ when immersed in the water. This immersion symbolizes Christ’s death on the cross.

      • Verse 5: "We shall also be in His resurrection" – Baptism leads to a life of resurrection, victory over sin, and communion with Christ.

      • Verse 6: "Old man" – Refers to the corrupt nature inherited from Adam.

      • Verse 10: "Once for all" – Indicates that baptism is not repeated, just as Christ died once for all.

    • The Human role in Justification (Romans 6: 11-14)

      • After highlighting God's role in salvation and justification, St. Paul shifts to the human responsibility.

      • Our role is not to return to sin and to dedicate our bodies to righteousness and to the will of God.
      • Do not let your tongue be used for cursing, your hands for violence, or your body for impurity.
      • Instead, offer yourself—your mind, heart, and body to God.
      • St. Paul emphasizes that salvation is available to all, not just Jews, and is based on faith, not the law.

    • Slave to sin or slave to Christ (Romans 6: 15:23)

      • As Jesus said, " No one can serve two masters" Matthew 4:24. A person must choose between two paths:
        • A slave to sin:
          • Those who obey sin's desires become its slaves, leading to spiritual death.
        • A Slave to Christ:
          • Those who follow God's commandments become righteous and gain freedom and eternal life.
    • Freed from the law through Christ (Romans 7: 1-6):

      • St. Paul explains in this chapter that the law no longer has authority over us after Christ's resurrection.

      • After His death and resurrection, Christ fulfilled the Law and freed us from it and united us with him.
      • The purpose of the law was to show people what sin is, but it couldn't save them from sin.
    • The Law reveals sin but cannot save (Romans 7:7-13):

      • The Law itself is not sinful, but its role was to make people aware of sin, exposing all forms of sin, but it did not have the power to save anyone from it.

      • The Law is like a warning sin, it tells us the danger of sin but cannot save us. True salvation comes only through faith in Christ.
    • The struggle between good intentions and sin (Romans 7: 14-25)

      • St. Paul describes the inner conflict that we experience, the struggle between wanting to do good and being overcome by sin.

      • Paul acknowledges that he desires to do what is right, but he often finds himself doing the opposite, due to the weakness of human nature.
      • Christ is the only solution, "Who will rescue me from this body of death?"
      • Christ has come to free us from the power of sin and bring reconcile us with the Father.
  1. Review/recap questions

    ** Servant may add more questions

    • What is the role of baptism in justification?

    • What is the human role in justification?
    • Can we be slave to sin and slave to Christ at the same time?
    • What is the purpose of the law?
    • What is the solution for the human between wanting to do good and being overcome by sin.?
  1. Homework

    ** Servant may add more questions


Unit 4: Pauline 1

Week 5: Christ grants us eternal life

Week 5: Christ grants us eternal life

    • No condemnation for those who walk according to the Spirit (Romans 8: 1-17)

      • Those who united with Christ Jesus have been rescued and saved- on the condition that they live a spiritual life

        • Living according to the Spirit: submitting to God's commandments, pleasing God, focuses on spiritual matters such as prayer, spiritual readings, and fasting.

        • Living according to the flesh: concerned about what to eat, drink, wear, and pleasing the flesh.
      • Verse 14-17: Confirms that those who are led by the Holy Spirit are truly God's children. Since we are God's children, we also inherit eternal life and the Kingdom of Heaven.
        • Led by the Spirit = True children of God.
        • We are no longer slaves to fear but are adopted as God's children.
        • The Holy Spirit confirms our identity in Christ.
        • As heirs with Christ, we inherit eternal life
    • Renewal of Creation and the Hope of Coming Glory (Romans 8:18-25):

      • St. Paul discusses the suffering of present time and contrasts it with the glory that will be revealed in the future.
      • Creation, affected by sin, suffers from wars, diseases, famines, natural disasters and more, but one day will be freed from corruption.
      • St. Paul teaches that true hope is not about what is seen, but about waiting for what is promised (the fullness of God's sonship), which requires faith and patience.
    • The Intercession of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:26-27):

      • The Holy Spirit intervenes to support, guide, teaches us to pray and request.

      • If you don’t know what to say in prayer, or if the devil attacks you with laziness or wandering thoughts, ask for God's help; He will support you and guide you, all through the work of the Holy Spirit dwelling in you.
    • Christ the Sustainer and Intercessor (Romans 8:28-34)

      • God's plan for us is above our understanding. He turns all things, without exception, for the building up of our souls, working for our good both on earth and for His glory in heaven.

      • The phrase "work together" means that while some events in life may seem bad or confusing, they ultimately come together in harmony to serve our good and well-being.
      • After His resurrection, Christ ascended to heaven to demonstrate the possibility of humans entering the glory of the Kingdom. He is the firstborn of all believers.
      • We cannot doubt God's love, for He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ for our redemption. Therefore, it is only natural that He will grant us all the gifts and graces necessary for our salvation.
    • Noting can separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:35-39)
      • The devils attempts to separate us from God's love through trials and distractions.
      • Despite these challenges, tribulations, distress, persecution, hunger, nakedness, danger, or death, nothing can separate us from God's love.
      • Examine yourself at the end of each day to see what has prevented you from enjoying the love of Christ. Make more time and give up not only evil desires or the worries and disturbances of life, but also any distractions that deprive you of your spiritual life.
  1. Review/recap questions

    ** Servant may add more questions

  1. Homework

    ** Servant may add more questions

Unit 5: Pauline 2

Unit 5: Pauline 2

Week 1: God's plan for Israel and the Gentiles

Week 1: God's plan for Israel and the Gentiles

    • Paul's sorrow over the unbelief of the Jews (Romans 9:1-5)

      • St. Paul declares in this chapter his sorrow over the Jews who didn't believe.

      • Verse 3: "For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ .." Paul’s words should not be taken literally; he certainly does not wish to be separated from Christ. He said before in the previous chapter "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?". He demonstrates his deep love for the Jews, as he was deeply moved by the sacrificial love of Christ the Redeemer on the cross.
        • Contemplation: If God has granted you circumstances that support your spiritual life, take advantage of them and rejoice in your sonship to God, lest neglecting them stand as a witness against you on the last day. Use every opportunity and respond to the voice of God today to draw closer to Him.
    • God's Promise Is for the Chosen Only (Romans 9: 6:13)

      • God's promise is only for the true spiritual Israelite, the one who will be united with Christ.
      • The promise is not for all the physical descendants of Abraham. The proof of this is that:
        • Ishmael was also a son of Abraham by the flesh, yet he did not receive the promise like Isaac, who remained steadfast in faith like his father.
        • Jacob and Esau, twin brothers from the same parents, Isaac and Rebekah. God chose Jacob because he loved and sought to please Him.
      • The children of God doesn't refer to physical descent from Abraham, but faith and adherence to God's promises.
      • The choice to be children of God is based on God's grace, not our renthouse deeds, since no one deserve that honor by work alone.
    • God's choice and human free will (Romans 9:14-29):

      • God choice of one person over another does not mean that God is unjust, but It is based on His foreknowledge.

      • Therefore, Israel has no right to be angry about God’s choice to include the Gentiles, as His mercy and compassion are His alone, as God.
      • Verse 18 "Whom He wills He harden" means that God used Pharaoh, who was already hard-hearted, and Pharaoh’s actions as an example to demonstrate His anger toward the wicked and His power in avenging them.
      • Just as God chose to have mercy on Jews, He also extended His mercy to Gentiles, making them His people—forming the New Covenant Church alongside Christians of Jewish descent.
      • Contemplation: God endured Pharaoh many times and was patient with the people of Israel for about 2,000 years. In the same way, He is patient with us, giving us every opportunity for repentance. We should be ashamed of His love and quickly turn to Him in repentance.
    • The Cause of justification of the Gentiles and stumbling of the Jews. (Romans 9:30-33)

      • The Gentiles, who lived in darkness have reached justification through faith, but the Jews who spent their lives to fulfill the law failed to because they relied on their work only not their faith.
      • The Israelites stumbled over a "stone," which was the Lord Jesus Christ, who exposed their hypocrisy and rejected their self-righteousness and pride. In the end, they crucified Him, killed Him, and denied His resurrection.
    • The Jews lack spiritual understanding (Romans 10:1-5)
      • The Jews have strong attachment to God and zeal for His name, however this strong zeal lacks spiritual understanding.
      • St. Paul recalls his own past when he was zealous for God and persecuted Christians.
      • The Jews were unaware that the purpose of the Law, sacrifices, and the Old Covenant was to prepare humanity to receive Christ.
    • The Righteousness of Christ is available to everyone (Romans 10: 6-13)
      • Salvation has become accessible through Christ Jesus. We should take advantage of this opportunity by repentance and receiving the Holy Sacraments, which lead to a deeper relationship with God through prayer and daily reading of His Word in the Bible.
      • Our confession of Christ should not be just verbal, But by our good behavior and outward actions, showing that we are children of God.
    • The rejection of the Gospel by the Jews (Romans 10:14-21)
      • It was expected that the Jews would be the first to believe the good news and even participate in proclaiming Christ, just as the apostles did. However, instead of accepting the gospel message, they rejected it and resisted it.
    • The future of the Jews in terms of salvation (Romans 10:1-10)
      • God, who chose Israel as His people, wouldn't reject them even after they crucified and rejected Him. He will always keep His arms open to anyone believes in Him.
      • In verse 4:  7,000 men who have not bowed to Baal. The number seven symbolizes perfection, and 1,000 represents heavenly life—meaning that these 7,000 live in the fullness of heavenly life.
      • Salvation requires both grace and works. Salvation is a gift from God, granted by His grace, but that this grace requires cooperation from the individual through faith, repentance, and good works.
    • God's call to the Jews to believe in Christ (Romans 11:32)
      • St. Paul compares Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to the firstfruits, symbolizing how their holiness sanctifies the Jewish people.
      • He also compares them to the root of a good tree, with the Jewish people being the branches. Those Jews who rejected the faith are like the broken-off branches.
      • The Gentiles are compared to a wild olive tree, which does not bear fruit. However, in His mercy, God grafted them into the cultivated olive tree, making them part of it.
      • Verse 24: Paul declares that the faith and return of the rejecting Jews is not impossible. He explains that if God, in His mercy, was able to graft a wild olive tree (the Gentiles) into the cultivated olive tree, how much easier would it be for God to graft the branches that share the same nature as the original olive tree, meaning the Jews, when they repent.
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Unit 5: Pauline 2

Week 2: A life of love, sacrifice, and submission

Week 2: A life of love, sacrifice, and submission. Chapters 12-14

    • Sanctifying the Body and Mind for a Spiritual Life with God (Romans 12:1-2)

      • We should offer our bodies and minds to God and do everything for the glory of God, while sacrificing and rejecting every desire that contradicts God's commandments.

      • We should not confirm to the ways of the world.

        • The world behaviors and habits are against God's commandments.

        • Know that while you live in the world your principles are different from it.
        • Contemplation: If you have been drawn into some improper actions, you need repentance and the renewal of your mind, so that you may live for the love of God.
    • Types of gifts in the Church (Romans 12: 3:8)

      • The work of service is fundamentally based on trust in God's work, regardless of human limitations.
      • God is a God of order—He established the members of His Church like parts of one body, each with a distinct role and function, different yet complementary. The gifts given to each member are meant for serving others, not for personal pride.
        • Prophecy: Speaking God's truth with faith.
        • Service: Helping and serving others.
        • Teaching: Explaining the word of God
        • Exhortation: Encouraging and strengthening others.
        • Leadership: Administration
        • Mercy: Showing compassion with Joy
    • Virtues in the Christian community (Romans 12:9-21):

        • Sincere love: Genuine love without hypocrisy

        • Rejecting evil: Hating what is evil and cling to what is good
        • Caring for one another
        • Serving the Lord with enthusiasm
        • Joyful, patience, and prayer
        • Sharing with those in need and welcoming them
        • Blessing your enemies
        • Empathy: rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep
        • Humility
        • Avoiding retaliation: Not repaying evil with evil but overcoming it with good.
      • Contemplation: We are called to acquire all these virtues to truly become a children of God.
    • Duties of a Christian Toward Society (Romans 13:1-7)

      • Submission to authority: We are called to submit to authority because they are established by God. Those who resist authority, resist God
      • Respect for rulers: We are called to respect our leaders
      • Obey the law: We are called to obey the laws unless they contradict God's commands.
      • Living peacefully: We are called to live peacefully and responsibly
    • Loving everyone (Romans 13:8-10)
      • Universal Love – Christian love is not limited to friends or fellow believers but extends to all people, reflecting God’s love for the world.
      • If you have fallen into many sins and struggled to resist sin, know that the easiest path is to love everyone.
    • Repent now before time runs out (Romans 13: 11-14)
      • We must reject sinful behaviors and walk in the light of Christ.
      • Put on the Armor of God
        • Ask yourself: Would I commit this sin if people could see me now? And the more important question: Can I commit this sin while God is watching me now?"
    • Accepting the weak in faith (Romans 14:1-12)
      • We should welcome those who are weak in faith without judgment
      • Avoid argument over personal and non essential matters
      • We Live for the Lord – "For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself. For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord" (Romans 14:7-8)
    • Do not cause others to stumble (Romans 14:13-23)
      • As children of God, we need to be careful with our actions.
      • For example, (If your father of confession gave you absolution to eat specific food during fasting) don't eat non fasting food in front of others
      • Avoid gossiping and making others to fall into sin
      • Avoid cursing or using hurtful words
      • Don't lie or encouraging others to lie
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Unit 5: Pauline 2

Week 3: A life of love, sacrifice, and submission

Week 3: Unity in Christ

Chapters 15-16

    • The strong in faith is the one who bears with others (Romans 15:1-7)

      • The one who is strong in his faith and love for God gives up what pleases and comforts himself to bears others.

      • If Christ—the holy and perfect one—accepted us, the sinful and impure, despite the big difference between us and Him, how much more should we, as weak and sinful humans, accept our weak brothers with love, no matter their condition or mistakes.

        • Contemplation: Don’t forget your main goal is the salvation of yourself and others. That means loving one another, being patient when someone is struggling, and forgiving each other.
        • For example, be careful with your words. If you or someone in class makes fun of another person or calls them names, that’s not acceptable. Instead of laughing or joining in, choose to be kind and stand up for what’s right.
    • The acceptance of Jews and Gentiles (Romans 15: 8:13)

      • Jews and Gentiles are equal in that Christ served both by offering salvation to all.
      • One of the great mercies of God is that every person is included in His plan of salvation. Even those who were far off.
    • St. Paul praising the people of Rome (Romans 15:14-19):

        • St. Paul wrote this epistle to remind the Romans of some truths of the faith. This is a kind and humble approach from him, as he considers his words to be a reminder to them, since they know everything.

    • St. Paul's desire to visit them (Romans 15:20-33)

      • St. Paul desired many times to visit Rome, but each time he was hindered from going.
      • In humility, he asks them to pray for him, because he was about to face a difficult trial—confronting the unbelieving Jews in Jerusalem.
      • Contemplation: For this reason, the Church always prays for its leaders: the patriarch, bishops, priests, and servants, that the Lord may fulfill their ministry.
    • Greetings from St. Paul to the believers in Rome (Romans 16:1-16)
      • This part reveals the feelings of love between the servants and the believers, as well as Paul’s kindness and appreciation for the servants who assisted him.
      • He sends them peace and love in verse 16 "the Holy kiss", just as the deacon says during the Divine Liturgy, 'Greet one another.' This signifies forgiveness and love, preparing us to welcome Christ's dwelling within us.
    • Warnings about false teachers (Romans 16: 17-20)
      • St. Paul asks the believers to watch carefully, like guards, for anyone who tries to cause divisions or stumbling blocks in the church, in order to preserve the level of love and unity within the church.
    • The conclusion of the epistle (Romans 16:21-27)
      • Tertius, mentioned in Romans 16:22, is the scribe who wrote down the letter to the Romans on behalf of Paul.. Paul did not write it himself due to his eye illness. Therefore, Tertius also sends his greetings to the believers in the Church of Rome.
      • Our loving God allowed the Gentiles to enter through the work of Christ.
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Unit 6: Acts

Unit 6: Acts

Week 1: Introduction + (The Ascension and Pentecost)


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Unit 6: Acts

Week 2