At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 5/17

Day 1: Verses 1-4
The Israelites faced a terrible defeat in battle, and this caused them to ask an important question: Why has God defeated us? Their elders understood that God was in control, but they didn’t understand what God would make clear later in 1 Samuel 15:22—that God is not pleased by empty actions of “worship.” He desires obedient love. So when the people brought the Ark to battle with the belief that this would put them on God’s “good side,” they missed the point. We make this mistake today by believing that our religious acts can put us in God’s good graces. Pray that God would give you a heart for obedient love rather than empty religious activities.

Day 2: Verses 5-9
The Hebrew people became confident when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to the battle. And the Philistines remembered what had happened to the Egyptians. The Israelites should have remembered their journey out of Egypt too. Had they forgotten how God had destroyed the Israelites who had rebelled against God in the wilderness (Num 16)? God is great and powerful. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge (Prov 1:7). Does your life reflect that you fear God today? 

Day 3: Verses 10-11
The Israelites trusted in the Ark, but apparently did not trust in the laws that were kept within the Ark. The people appear to have been missing a vital faith of their own. They had evidence that Moses and Aaron had walked with God, but where was the evidence of their own faith? James said, “I will show you my faith by my works” (2:18). Can your family and friends see your faith by how you live?

Day 4: Verses 12-18
This passage shows the sad end of Eli’s ministry. He had done some things well, but he had allowed his sons to defile God’s holiness. He had failed to stand for God’s character at the tabernacle in his life, and he had seen the Ark of God lost at his death. At that point, his chapter in the story was complete. But until that day, Eli could have repented. Many in Scripture from Manasseh to Paul turned back to God. We can repent too. Consider your life and pray a prayer of repentance asking God to turn your heart and life to Him more and more. 

Day 5: Verses 19-22
Phineas’s wife is crushed by the loss of her family, and devastated at the loss of “the glory.” She seemed to understand that the Ark was not simply a mascot, but a real marker of God’s real glory in her world. Israel apart from the glory of God was a sad and empty place. And that emptiness could not be filled even by a good gift, like a son. What makes your life “full”? Are you living to “to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord” (Ps 27:4)? Do you ask, with Moses, “Show me your glory” (Ex 33:18)?

Catechism Connection: 47, 87
Let Eli be an example to all of us: today is the day to turn away from our sin. There is no reason to wait. And this repentance will press us into greater “awareness of the mercy of God in Christ,” and change us so that we are now “purposing and working constantly for a new obedience” (WSC 87). This is the way to joy.

Monthly Memory: Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 5/10

Day 1: Verses 1-3
During Eli’s day, the Word of the Lord was exceedingly rare. Today, especially in our culture, God’s Word is more available than ever. Hebrews 1 tells us that in the past God spoke in many ways, but now he has spoken to us through his Son. And 2 Timothy 3 explains that all Scripture is breathed out by God—it is his voice, his Words. Take some time to thank God that his Word is not rare today. And ask Him to help you and your family to feast on his Book because we don’t live on bread alone, but on every word from God’s mouth (Matt 4:4). 

Day 2: Verses 4-7
Samuel was hearing the audible voice of God, but did not grasp that. And we are no more perceptive than he was. We would never know or recognize God without his work to reveal Himself to us. God speaking to us in a way that we can grasp is grace: an unearned gift. Pray that God would, by his Holy Spirit, open your ears more and more to what He has to say. Ask Him to reveal Himself to your family and to help you know Him. 

Day 3: Verses 8-9
It took a little while, but eventually Eli understood what was happening. As an older and more experienced believer, he pointed Samuel toward the Lord. And he developed Samuel’s understanding. We all need people to point us to the Lord and encourage us to respond to God’s voice. Who are the people who have pointed you to God’s Word? Thank God for them. Who are the people that God has called you to point toward Him? Pray that God would help you faithfully lead them toward Him today.

Day 4: Verses 10-18
When Samuel hears the Lord this time, he responds with the wise words Eli had given to him. Samuel understands that he is a servant. God is the Lord—the Ruler—and Samuel must listen and obey. When God tells Samuel the tragic news about Eli’s family, Samuel conveys that message to Eli even though he is afraid. And then we see what might be Eli’s best moment when he says, “It is the Lord. Let him do what seems good to him” (18). Eli also understood that he too was a servant of God and lived that out as an example to Samuel. Pray that God would help you follow Him as his faithful servant today.

Day 5: Verses 19-21
Look at the amazing ways in which God made Samuel a successful prophet. First, God was with Samuel. And the Lord empowered what Samuel spoke by not letting any of “his words fall to the ground” (19). God “established” Samuel as someone who worked for Him (20). And, finally, God appeared again. Was it in a pillar of fire? No. Was it on a mountain-top accompanied by lightning? No. This time God “revealed himself… by the word of the Lord” (21). Pray that God would work in your life and make you successful for Him by the power of his Word.

Catechism Connection: 35, 2
This chapter shows Samuel growing, being sanctified. Sanctification is God’s work “by which we are renewed… in the image of God and by which we are enabled more and more to die to sin and live to righteousness” (WSC 35). And God does this through “the Word of God… to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him” (WSC 2).

Monthly Memory: Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 5/3

Day 1: Verses 1-11
In chapter one, Hannah prayed out of her distress. And here in chapter two, we see her praying out of her joy. The time is always right for prayer. As Paul taught, “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess 5:17). The Bible talks in different places about our inclination to forget about God when things are going well. However, we must see that God is the great giver of every gift. And it is good and right for us to pray praise back to Him. What will you praise Him for today? 

Day 2: Verses 12-17
Eli’s sons were employed as priests. They had the tasks of helping people worship and seek the Lord. However, their actions did not line up with their assignment. Rather than serving the Lord, they used the gifts of the people to serve themselves. They pressured the people to do wrong and “treated the offering of the Lord with contempt” (17). Though they worked in the Lord’s house, they were far from the Lord’s heart. We must all be careful not to mistake coming to church with loving the Lord. Take a moment to examine your own heart. Pray with David: “ Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” (Ps 139:24). 

Day 3: Verses 18-21
Samuel stands as a stark contrast to Eli’s sons. They didn’t honor the Lord, but Samuel “grew in the presence of the Lord” (21). And he was encouraged in this growth by his family. His mother supported him every year by making him a special robe to be used as he served the Lord. In what ways can you support your family in seeking and serving the Lord?

Day 4: Verses 22-26
I am haunted by the words in verse 22: Eli “kept hearing” about the evil constantly committed by his sons. He became aware of the pattern of their lives and he continued to hear about it. Finally, he confronted them, but “they would not listen to the voice of their father” (25). We must not wait to lovingly, but firmly confront our own sin or sin in the lives of those whom God has given to us. Galatians 6:1 says, if anyone is caught in sin, “you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.” Pray that God would give you wisdom to fight sin in your life and in your family. 

Day 5: Verses 27-36
“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom 6:23). Here we see the consequences of sin in Eli’s family. However, in this judgement, there is also the promise of a coming Messiah. These corrupt priests will one day be replaced with Jesus—the Great High Priest. God promised, “I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who shall do according to what is in my heart and in my mind. And I will build him a sure house, and he shall go in and out before my anointed forever” (35). Thank God for Jesus.

Catechism Connection: 100-107
God has given us the Lord’s prayer to help us pray with praise, dependence, and confession, asking for guidance and God’s will to be done. Pray the Lord’s Prayer slowly and consider what each part means for your life. 

Monthly Memory: Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 4/26

Day 1: Verses 1-8
Choosing not to follow God’s design leads to pain and heartache. In this passage, we see a man with two wives. And we see weeping, rivalry, conflict, and disappointment. After all, in Genesis 2:24, God said, “A man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” From the start, God had always intended that families would be built from one husband and one wife. It is crucial for us to seek to follow God’s plan; it is the way to joy! And at the same time, it is important to know that God continues to work in the lives of imperfect people. Ask God to give you the strength to follow his commands and principles even when it is hard.

Day 2: Verses 9-11
Hannah took her disappointment to the Lord. She brought Him her honest emotions and longings. Hannah did not come pretending to have her life organized perfectly. She did not come with perfect words and counterfeit contentment. She came with her real pain. And this kind of truth-telling prayer pleases God. We don’t need to pretend when we come before Him. He is ready to hear what is really on our hearts. What is on your heart that you need to bring before the Lord today? 

Day 3: Verses 12-18
At first, Eli didn’t understand Hannah’s prayer. However, when he took time to understand, he was able to encourage her and pray for her. This was a clear encouragement to Hannah in her distress. Eli couldn’t answer Hannah’s prayer, but he could pray with her. And when she went away, “her face was no longer sad” (18). Who can you serve today through encouragement and prayer?

Day 4: Verses 19-20
Hannah’s worship did not require God to give her what she wanted. She went and worshiped the Lord before He had answered her prayer. This is an important lesson for us today: God is worthy of our praise regardless of our situation. We may be distressed and disappointed, but He is still good. As you pray today, list some things that give you reason to praise and thank God. He is worthy of worship every day, no matter what. 

Day 5: Verses 21-28
Hannah brought her son back to the tabernacle when the time was right. She gave back to God what He had given to her. And her worship was pleasing in the sight of God. And, it was also a gift to her son. Did you notice the last verse of the chapter? “And he worshiped the Lord there” (28). The son saw his mom’s worship and it taught him about the Lord and how to respond rightly to the King of kings. 

Catechism Connection: 98-99
The Westminster Shorter Catechism gives a beautiful definition of prayer: “Prayer is offering up our desires to God for things agreeable to his will, in the name of Christ, with confession of our sins, and with thankful acknowledgment of his mercies” (WSC 98). We offer our desires to God—pouring out our hearts to Him—in trust, with confession, out of thanksgiving. And we trust Him no matter what.

Monthly Memory: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 4/19

*We just finished Acts and next week we’ll start 1 Samuel. But this week, I wanted to offer encouragement from Scripture to be in the Word as a family at home. - Kelly

Day 1: 2 Timothy 3:12-17
Paul wrote to Timothy and told him to “continue in what [he had] learned and [had] firmly believed, knowing from whom [he] learned it and how from childhood [he had] been acquainted with the sacred writings” (14-15). Every family should have the goal to know the sacred writings (the Bible) from childhood. And this learning should be tied to the character of the parents or grandparents teaching the Bible in the home. This way their lives show the power of Scripture. Pray that God would help your family grow to be more and more committed to the Word.

Day 2: 2 Timothy 3:12-17 (again)
It’s good to look at this passage again because it not only shows the importance of learning the Bible in the family, it describes the power of the Bible. Scripture is “breathed out by God” and is useful to make us godly (16). Beyond that, God uses the Bible to equip us for every good work. If the Bible is God’s tool to form us, we must make a habit of being shaped by the Bible. Ask God to give you a love for the Word and a passion to share it with your family.

Day 3: Deut 6:5-9
Here we read the Greatest Commandment and God’s call to put this commandment on our hearts. And how can we tell if we have taken God’s command to heart? We teach God’s truths “diligently to [our] children” (7). Those who love God are called to teach his ways in the home. Ask the Lord to help you diligently teach his Word at home.

Day 4: Deuteronomy 6:5-9 (again)
What does it look like to diligently teach God’s Word and ways to our families? Talk about them at home, on the road, at night, and in the morning (7). Place reminders all around—wherever you spend time. This way you will never forget to be in the Word together. Put a Bible at your kitchen table to use at meals. Put memory verses on your mirror or in the car. Put Scripture songs in your playlists. Make it impossible to avoid the call to share who the Lord is with your family.

Day 5: Psalm 19:7-14
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that doing family worship or Bible-time is a chore. Remember what God’s Word accomplishes: it revives the soul (7), enlightens the eyes (8), is sweeter than honey and more valuable than gold (10). Family-time in the Scriptures is a gift to all involved. Ask God to deepen your love for his Word.

Catechism Connection: 1-2
We were given life to glorify God (WSC 1), but without Scripture we are not fully equipped to do that. “The Word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him” (WSC 2). Let’s be in the Word together in our homes! God desires to speak to us and to shape our families through his Word. Will we listen?

Monthly Memory: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 4/12

Day 1: Verses 1-10
God rescued Paul from a shipwreck and then from the bite of a venomous snake. Those sound like very unpleasant experiences, but those experiences opened doors for Paul to share the rescuing God with others. He wanted everyone to experience the goodness of God. And, in this case, the people responded kindly. This doesn’t always happen, but it does make sense that showing kindness in the name of our Lord can open doors. And we all know people need to be encouraged, helped, and served. Who can you show kindness to today?

Day 2: Verses 11-16
Finally! After a long journey through jail cells, assasination attempts, shipwrecks, and snakebites, Paul made it to Rome. God had orchestrated Paul’s journey so that he had numerous opportunities to share the Good News, but it certainly felt slow. And in our lives, it can often feel like God is moving slowly. However, we can trust Him to work in the right ways at the right time. Ask God to help you have patience to trust Him as He leads.

Day 3: Verses 17-22
Why did the Jewish people in Rome want to hear Paul share about Jesus? Because they knew that the Way was spoken against everywhere (28:22). This is an example of how Satan may want to work against the Lord, but what the enemy intends for evil, God intends for good (Gen 50:20). So many people had been speaking against Christianity that it created interest. Now many were interested in the source of the scandal. Can you think of anyone who might think following Jesus is so strange or out of date that they might love to hear you talk about it?

Day 4: Verses 23-28
When Paul got the chance, he shared about Jesus all day from all the Scripture he had available. He was making the most of this opportunity. And some of the Jewish people were convinced, while others disbelieved. This should encourage us: Paul did his best, but the results of his evangelism were up to God. Pray that God would help you to share your faith as best as you can, as much as you can, with all the scriptural support that you can. Ask his Holy Spirit to help you trust Him with the response.

Day 5: Verses 30-31
Paul lived in Rome for two years, paid his own bills, and welcomed any who came to visit. As he did this, he declared the Good News. I love this passage because, unlike much of Acts, this part is so… normal. Paul is in his house. Paul is paying bills. And Paul is sharing Christ. This is the kind of life that we should aspire to live when life is “normal.” The normal life that God gives can be every bit as missional as a life of jails, ships, riots, and all the rest that Paul experienced. Ask God to help you to live the life He has given you for his glory.

Catechism Connection: 39
As we wrap up Acts, let us press on to live in response to what He has taught us here. WSC 39 says, “The duty which God requires of mankind is obedience to his revealed will.” By his grace, let’s live for Him.

Monthly Memory: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 4/5

Day 1: Verses 1-8
The beginning of Paul’s journey to Rome was slow and difficult. The “winds were against” them (27:4). They sailed “slowly” (27:7) with “difficulty” (27:8). In life, there are elements, like the weather, that are beyond our control. And these things can make life difficult for us. However, these difficulties and slow-downs can help us remember how great our God is. Nothing is outside of his control. Nothing is difficult for Him. Ask God to help you to rely on his strength when challenges arise.

Day 2: Verses 9-12
The journey transitioned from slow and difficult to “dangerous” (27:9). Paul advised the centurion not to press on, but to stay put. This would be safer. However, the centurion did not listen to Paul, and took the advice of the pilot. And here we see a glimpse of Paul’s humility. We read nothing of Paul arguing or being upset. When he didn’t get his way, he reflected the patient, humble character of Christ. Pray that God would help you to show Christ’s character when you don’t get your way. 

Day 3: Verses 13-26
The situation worsened: “neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope of our being saved was at last abandoned” (27:20). But God sent his messenger to instruct Paul, and this time the leaders listened when Paul spoke to them. He now had a track-record of being correct. The men knew that they should have listened before, and they would certainly listen now. In other words, God used Paul’s painful rejection to prepare the men to listen at this point. Even when He works in ways we don’t expect, He is in control.

Day 4: Verses 27-38
When the stakes were highest and the sailors were trying to escape on their own, the centurion and soldiers listened to Paul again. His credibility had been established and it held firm even in a life-and-death situation. And as the stressful situation unfolded, Paul used his credibility not for power or control, but to encourage and point to Jesus (27:35-36). Pray that God would give us a trustworthy track-record so that we too can point to Him in all situations. 

Day 5: Verses 39-44
The soldiers had a plan to kill the prisoners (27:42), and that was bad news for Paul. But God had worked in such a way, that the centurion—Julius—wanted to save Paul. Previously, he had been kind to Paul (27:3) and here he actively worked to save his life. God not only controls weather and opportunities, He also connects us to exactly the right relationships. He guides the “who” of our lives along with the “what,” “where,” and “why.” Thank God for the relationships in your life, and ask Him to use you to point those people toward Christ.  

Catechism Connection: 26
Acts 27 is a testimony of God ruling the world. And WSC 26 explains how Jesus carries out his kingly office, saying, “Christ carries out the office of a king in subduing us to himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies.”

Monthly Memory: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 3/29

Day 1: Verses 1-3
Paul had been treated unjustly and had been in danger for a long time. However, he remained kind and patient in how he dealt with others. It would have been easy for him to lash out and complain, but he didn’t. And it is likely that those who heard his message were more open to what he said because of how he said it. He married charity with clarity. Would people describe you as a patient and kind person even in the face of adversity or frustration? Who we are has a lot to do with how people hear what we say.

Day 2: Verses 4-8
In Paul’s time and place, the supernatural was an assumed part of life. Everyone believed in God or gods. Therefore, Paul could ask, “Why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead?” (26:8). Every culture has certain shared beliefs, and Christians are wise to be aware of what those beliefs are. This allows us to find real common-ground as we share the truth about Jesus. What areas of common ground do we share with non-Christians in our culture?

Day 3: Verses 9-11
Though Paul knew the sinfulness of his past, he was not shy about sharing his story. He was open about his past sins because he wanted to make clear how God had changed him. In the modern church, there can be pressure to pretend to be perfect. However, the gospel is that Christ came into the world to save sinners. And Paul knew that it glorified God to be able to share that he was the worst of sinners (1 Tim 1:15), but God had changed him. Pray that God would make you appropriately transparent about how He has changed your life.

Day 4: Verses 12-23
Again, Paul shared the story of his conversion. And he openly shared the reason for his life now: to share the hope of Jesus with others. The purpose of his life was “to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in [Christ]” (26:18). That is the purpose of each of our lives. Pray that God would help us to live according to our mission.  

Day 5: Verses 24-32
The defense that Paul was giving was actually a defense of the gospel. Instead of looking to free himself, he was seeking to free the souls of those who imprisoned him. And Agrippa could see that Paul was evangelizing. He asked Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” (26:28). And Paul wasn’t shy in answering that he wanted all those who heard his message to become followers of Christ (26:29). There is no better time than now for each of us to live like this ourselves. Who can you share the Good News with today?

Catechism Connection: 35
One of the most compelling kinds of evidence of God’s work in the world is how He changes us. We are not who we used to be. “Sanctification is the work of God’s free grace by which we are renewed in our whole person in the image of God and by which we are enabled more and more to die to sin and live to righteousness” (WSC 35). When others see you being changed by Christ, they have good reason to believe in Him.

Monthly Memory: Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 3/22

Day 1: Verses 1-7
After a long period of waiting, Paul’s case was going to be heard again. And again the Jewish leaders came with charges against him that they could not prove (25:8). After two years in prison, the untruths kept on coming. Sometimes in life, God steers us through long periods of difficulty, disappointment, and pain. One day, God will make all things new and there will be no more heartache, but—until then—we can expect to experience hardships as we follow Christ. After all, Jesus’ life was full of pain too. Ask the Lord to help you endure with honor as you follow Him. 

Day 2: Verses 8-12
Again Paul was bold in his defense because truth was on his side. He made it clear that he didn’t fear death (25:11). There is an unbreakable freedom that comes from knowing and faithfully following the Lord. He ordains the number of our days (Ps 139:16). He is the giver of life (Acts 17:25). And those who believe in Him will live even though they die (John 11:25). Even in prison or in death, God’s people are safe. No one can pluck God’s people out of his hand (John 10:29). Ask God to build up your faith in Him today.

Day 3: Verses 13-19
Festus explained Paul’s case to Agrippa, and he understood that it was all about one thing: Jesus. The dispute was about the fact that Paul claimed that Jesus was alive (25:20). Over several years and through all of his challenges in prison, Paul had kept the gospel message at the center. In our busy lives, we too must strive to keep the message of Christ, his cross, and his resurrection at the center.

Day 4: Verses 20-22
As Festus explained Paul’s situation, Agrippa became curious. You never know how a life lived for Christ will spark the curiosity of others. Paul had been sitting in prison, but now governors and rulers were coming to hear him speak about Christ. Like Paul, we can trust God’s timing. He will bring the right people at the right time to hear the Good News. Our job is to always be ready to give an answer for the hope in us (1 Pet 3:15).    

Day 5: Verses 23-27
Paul had essentially been vindicated at this point, but because he had appealed to Caesar, he would be sent to Rome. However, his judges were confused on what their judgement should be because they didn’t even have any charges against him. In one of his letters, Paul wrote to live life above reproach so that your opponents will be ashamed (Titus 2:8). It certainly looks like that was what he experienced here. Pray that God would help you to live purely so that none of the enemy’s charges can stick.

Catechism Connection: 76-78
Paul was a man of truth, and that is a great example for all of us. The Ninth Commandment “requires maintaining and promoting truth between one person and another, as well as maintaining and promoting our neighbor’s good name as well as our own” (WSC 77). And it forbids “anything that puts the truth at risk or is injurious to our own or our neighbor’s good name” (WSC 78). Most importantly, being people of honesty allows us to live without putting Christ’s name at risk.

Monthly Memory: Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

This summer our out-of-town youth trip is to Panther, WV for Son Servants from July 20-25. I am so excited! Our church has been connected to this trip for a long time, but here is some helpful info about it.

What kind of trip is it?
Son Servants is a missions trip and a youth camp all in one.
It's a missions trip where there is meaningful work to be done like painting, repairs, and more. And it's a camp where students from different churches stay together, eat together, worship together, and play together.

The Son Servants website says the trip “has been described as an international trip in our own backyard!  While the location and culture are very unique, the people that we meet and serve are as authentic and welcoming as can be found.”

Who can go?
Students in middle school (rising 7th) and high school are encouraged to come!

St. Matthew’s Church is also sending a group on this trip, and we will get to partner with them as well. We are hoping to do an informational meeting together to help us all prepare for the trip.

What is the cost and process for registering?
As with most of our events, our generous church has made it possible for us to offer a discounted rate to all students. Beyond that, there are some ways to lower the cost even further. The simplest is to register early. Students can also lower the cost by bringing a friend from outside of our church. There is a reduced-rate for families with multiple kids participating as well. And, of course, if your family is in need of additional financial assistance with this trip, we can help.

Register by April 15 for the early price of $200.
Register by May 15 for the price of $250.

Reduced Costs: 

• Family: If two or more students from the same family register by April 15, the cost will be $175 per student. 
• Outreach: If a student and a friend (who does not attend DPC Youth or St. Matthew’s, but lives locally) register by April 15, the cost will be $175 per student. The idea here is to use this trip to help someone make a connection with the church. 

I am praying that God will assemble just the right team! Please let me know if you have any questions. And check out the pictures below!

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 3/15

Day 1: Verses 1-4
Here we see the Jewish high priest and his spokesman being more open to changes in Jewish culture from Rome than from Jesus. This is sad. Christianity is the historic continuation of the faith of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jesus is the snake-crusher promised to Adam, the Suffering Servant spoken of by Isaiah, and the Messiah that the people had waited to see. However, the gospel is foolishness to those who are perished (1 Cor 1:18), and it takes a work of God to give new life (Eph 2). Though the faith is reasonable, we cannot be reasoned into new life. Pray that God would give new life to the lost in your life.

Day 2: Verses 5-9
Paul’s crime was being a ringleader of Christians: he followed the Way. Jesus Himself had said this would happen: “Be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them. And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations” (Mark 13:9-10). Ask God to help you to be on your guard so that you are able to stand for his name and his kingdom.

Day 3: Verses 10-16
Paul is unashamed of the gospel (Rom 1:16). He declares that he worships God “according to the Way” (24:14). He was clearly associating himself with those who were saying Jesus is Lord. This offended the Jewish leaders because Paul was clear that Jesus is the God of the Bible. And it ran the risk of offending the Romans because they referred to Caesar as Lord. However, Paul was bold because he feared God more than man. Pray that God would help you unashamedly trust Him too.

Day 4: Verses 17-21
Paul’s defense was simple: he told the truth. Those who live righteously are as bold as a lion (Prov 28:1), and Paul had the truth on his side. He had not incited riots. He had not tried to cause problems for the Jewish people. Instead, he had been standing up for the resurrection of Christ and the hope of the gospel. There is great power in having nothing to hide. Pray that God would make you a person of integrity so that you can stand for Him in all circumstances.

Day 5: Verses 22-27
Paul continued his missionary mission for two years in prison. He was able to share with Felix and Drusilla. However, they didn’t respond at that time with faith. In fact, Felix heard the truth and was alarmed. To many this might seem like a disheartening failure. Paul was stuck in prison and no one we know of was coming to Christ. However, God’s plan was never in jeopardy. We don’t know how God will lead. And He might take us in a direction that we wouldn’t choose on our own. But his plans are good. They are good for us and for the world.

Catechism Connection: 23-26
We can’t save ourselves or others, but Christ can. And He does this as prophet, priest, and king (WSC 23). As prophet, He reveals to us “by his Word and Spirit, the will of God for our salvation” (WSC 24). As priest, he satisfied  “divine justice and [reconciled] us to God” (WSC 25). And He rules as our king by “subduing us to himself, in ruling and defending us, and in restraining and conquering all his and our enemies” (WSC 26).

Monthly Memory: Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 3/8

Day 1: Verses 1-11
The Pharisees believed in the resurrection, while the Sadducees did not. And this was a big disagreement within the council that was hearing Paul’s case. Of course, the gospel requires resurrection: the resurrection of Christ and the resurrection of those who trust in Him. When Paul brought up this common ground with the Pharisees, violence broke out again and Paul was removed by the Romans. This kind of violent response against him was discouraging, but God gave him the encouragement and mission he needed at just the right time (23:11). Ask God to give you the encouragement and mission that you need to follow Him as well.

Day 2: Verses 12-15
Paul wanted his people to know Christ, but some of those same men wanted to kill Paul because of what he was teaching and doing. And some of the Jewish religious-leaders were in on this evil plan. This shows the unique posture of Christians toward the world. Others may hate us, but we want to love them. Others may want to harm us, but we want to help them. This is the counter-cultural life that Jesus commanded: love your enemies, do good to those who hate you (Luke 6:27). Ask God to help us to love those who don’t love us.

Day 3: Verses 16-22
An unlikely hero arises in this part of the story. The son of Paul’s sister heard about the plan to kill Paul, and he was brave enough to go to Paul and then the Roman tribune to report this in order to save Paul. God used this young man mightily to continue his gospel work through Paul. God can use you for his purposes as well. Ask the Lord to guide your steps as you seek to follow Him.
 
Day 4: Verses 23-20
God was now using the same kind of Roman soldiers who had crucified Jesus to protect Paul. This shows us that God is strong and able to work out his plan in just the way He wants. Everyone we meet in this episode, other than God, is limited. The would-be assassin can’t carry out their plan. The Romans need an informant to know what to do. Paul is basically locked up. But God carries out his plan, knowing all, and freely doing everything according to his will. Things in our lives might often seem to be going wrong. And bad things do happen. But we can trust that in all things—good and bad—God is working out his perfect plan in his perfect way.  

Day 5: Verses 31-35
Those who had intended to kill Paul had accidentally set up a meeting between him and the governor. Trying to silence him, they put him on the most high-profile stage of his life so far. Again, we see God’s plan being carried out. This does not mean that this was an easy time for Paul. But Paul knew that the very real difficulties of this life were nothing compared to the eternal weight of glory in Christ (2 Cor 4:17). Pray that God would help you to see that, even when it’s hard, following Him is always worth it.

Catechism Connection: 11
God’s providence is on display in this chapter as God worked through council disputes, family members, and Roman soldiers. In ways we could never imagine or plan, our Lord works though his “most holy, wise and powerful acts of preserving and governing all his creatures and all their actions” (WSC 11). And we can trust Him.

Monthly Memory: Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 3/1

Day 1: Verses 1-5
In this chapter, we see Paul starting to share his testimony with those who were wanting to kill him. By sharing his upbringing, education, and past, he was able to share the story of how God had worked to change his life. Think about how God has worked in your life to bring you to him. What is your testimony? And pray that God would open doors for you to share that testimony with others. 

Day 2: Verses 6-11
This portion of Paul’s testimony includes his conversion experience. Notice how powerful the gospel is to save: God took a man on a mission of destruction and made him a disciple. Instead of fighting the Lord, Paul asked, “What shall I do, Lord?” (22:8). There is no one outside of God’s ability to save. There is no one who can run out of God’s reach or sin beyond his ability to save. Our hope is not in our inclination to seek or follow God, but in God’s mercy and grace to save us. Praise Him for the power of the gospel in your life.

Day 3: Verses 12-16
God’s plans never fail. Ananias told Paul that God had appointed Paul to know his will (22:14). In other words, God had scheduled an appointment to meet Paul on the road and to change his life. And the right response to God working in our lives is trust and obedience. That is why, in verse 16, Ananias tells Paul not to wait, but to act on his faith. When God works in our lives, it should spur us on to follow Him. What does it look like for you to actively obey God today? Ask God to help you not to wait, but to get to work in what He has called you to do.

Day 4: Verses 17-21
Paul’s past weighed heavily on him. And he was worried that his past sins had disqualified him from sharing the gospel effectively. But God used his past—filled with sin and evil—to show that Christ Jesus came to the world to save sinners, even the worst of sinners (1 Tim 1:15). This is essential for us to know as well. God does not love us because of our own loveliness, but because of Christ’s perfect work on the cross. And those He saves, He sends (22:21). He has a mission for all who follow Him. Thank God that He saves by his grace. And ask Him to give you the wisdom and strength to follow wherever He leads.

Day 5: Verses 22-30
In this situation, those who heard Paul’s testimony responded with anger rather than faith. They hated his story and his message. When we share about the ways in which God has worked in our lives, we do not control the way that others respond. We trust the Holy Spirit with that. But regardless of the response, we must continue to share because we know that we conquer the enemy “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of [our] testimony” (Rev 12:11). 

Catechism Connection: 29-31
In Paul’s testimony, we see God effectually applying Christ’s redemption to him while he was on his way to persecute the church (WSC 29). Today, God still saves by “convincing us of our sin and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ, and renewing our wills, he persuades and enables us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the Gospel” (WSC 31). 

Monthly Memory: Romans 5:8
But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Summer is an important discipleship opportunity for the students at our church. And it is also a time for a ton of fun. I hope you are as excited as I am! Here is what we have on the schedule for 2026!

Sunday Night Youth Group (most Sundays)
We will plan to continue to meet on most Sundays throughout the summer. Along with Bible study, one of the core goals of youth-group is to help the students build and maintain real friendships at church. Meeting consistently helps accomplish that goal.

Cereal + Scripture (6/3, 7/15)
We will meet a few times from 10:30-noon on Wednesdays. Since there is no Church Family Night during the summer, this event helps us fill that gap. This time is meant to give a strategic boost to students’ devotional life throughout the summer, and to give them a time to invite friends who might be free as well. There is also a special late-night edition of Cereal + Scripture that you can read more about below. 

Vacation Bible School (6/8-6/11)
Our youth will be key leaders at VBS. They did a great job last year, and I know that they will make a difference. This is a chance for them to serve and lead. I am thankful that younger kids look up to our middle and high school students.

Archery Mini-Camp (7/6-7/9) Mornings.
We are excited to offer a new event in the life of our church! This will be fun for those in our church, and it will be an excellent outreach opportunity. More details coming soon.

Late-Night Youth Event: Cereal + Scripture + Lasers + Icecream (6/24, 8pm-midnight)
Our All-Night event was a hit last year! But it was tough to find leaders to be there all night, and all of the students slept for the last few hours. Therefore, I would like to try a Late-Night event this year instead.

We will be have an epic night of laser-tag battles throughout the church building (not in the sanctuary). There will also be a late-night edition of Cereal + Scripture, and then... an ice-cream bar!

Youth Trip: SonServants (7/20-7/25)
Our students have been involved with this trip for a long time. Two of our youth went last year, but many of our current group haven’t experienced it yet (including myself), so I am excited for us to have the chance to go. This trip is a mix between a missions-trip during the day and a youth-camp in the evening. More details about registration, cost, etc. will be available soon.

Conclusion
I know that few families will be able to make it to all of these events. And I understand that many have other things on the schedule (from family vacations, sports, other camps, the OM Mission trip, General Assembly, etc). But I am hopeful that by getting this out to you all at the very beginning of March, you can mark your calendars and make the most of the discipleship opportunities that the summer offers to our youth.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 2/22

Day 1: Verses 1-16
Paul was convinced of how God was leading in his life. He knew that it would be painful. And this was confirmed time and time again on his journey back to Jerusalem. But in the end, everyone agreed: “Let the will of the Lord be done” (21:14). Following Christ will cost everything. Jesus said that those who live for Him will pick up their cross, denying themselves daily, and follow wherever He leads (Matt 16:14). That was true for Paul and it is true for us too. Ask God to give you the wisdom to know where He is leading and the strength to follow Him there.

Day 2: Verses 17-26
There was an ongoing discussion about the role of the Old Testament laws in the lives of believers. The church had concluded that God did not require Gentiles to become Jewish in order to be accepted as Christians. However, the Jewish people were still working through the ways in which Christianity had changed their lives as Jewish people. They were wrestling with questions like: What did it mean that Jesus had fulfilled the Law? Today, there are still questions to which the answers are not immediately clear. Sometimes we have to wrestle for a long time. But thank God that He has given us everything we need for life and godliness (1 Pet 1:3).

Day 3: Verses 27-32
Paul knew that his visit to Jerusalem would lead to hardships. His life was almost immediately at risk at the hands of the same city that had cried out to crucify Jesus. But this time, the Romans put a stop to the violence. God used the soldiers to protect Paul. His work wasn’t done. Trusting in God can be hard, and we don’t always know where He will take us. But we can always trust Him.

Day 4: Verses 33-36
Arguments and complaints against Christ and his people don’t always make sense. The Roman tribune tried to gather the facts: What had Paul done? Why were the people so upset? But “some in the crowd were shouting one thing, some another… he could not learn the facts because of the uproar” (21:34). If we are attacked for doing good and representing Jesus, we need to remember that He sees and understands the truth.

Day 5: Verses 37-40
In all the confusion, the Roman tribune had picked up some ideas about Paul that were clearly untrue. Apparently, some had been saying that he was “the Egyptian… who recently stirred up a revolt and led the four thousand men of the Assassins out into the wilderness” (21:38). Today, there continue to be false assumptions and misunderstandings about Christ and his people. Ask God to help you to represent Him well even when people don’t seem to understand.

Catechism Connection: 102-103
As we follow Jesus, “we pray that Satan’s kingdom may be destroyed, that the kingdom of grace may be advanced and ourselves and others may be brought into it and kept in it” (WSC 102). Since following Jesus is costly, “we pray that God, by his grace, would make us able and willing to know, obey, and submit to his will in all things” (WSC 103). He makes us able to follow Him well.

Monthly Memory: Ephesians 2:4-5
4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 2/15

Day 1: Verses 1-6
Notice that Paul was an encourager. He often experienced difficulties and pain as a result of following Jesus. He knew the importance of encouragement in the life of believers. Who has encouraged you most in your faith? And who are the people that you have the biggest opportunity to encourage? As we press on, let’s do it with an attitude of encouragement. 

Day 2: Verses 7-12
This is one of the places in Scripture that we see Christians gathered for worship on the “first day of the week” (20:7). And Paul, like many preachers, “prolonged his speech” (20:8). “Eutychus, sitting at the window, sank into a deep sleep as Paul talked still longer… he fell down from the third story and was taken up dead” (20:9). Although these people were living out God’s exciting story, it felt like “normal” life to them. We must remember that our normal lives are also part of God’s eternal plan. Ask God to help you live your chapter of his story with faithfulness. 

Day 3: Verses 13-27
Paul made an impact in Ephesus at this time, not by stopping there, but by meeting with the Ephesian elders as he passed by. Paul’s mission was taking him elsewhere, but God’s mission in Ephesus would continue. God’s church is not dependent on any person other than Christ Himself. As Paul moved on, he shared what God had called him to. And every believer should share Paul’s goal that we “may finish [our] course and the ministry that [we] received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God” (20:24). 

Day 4: Verses 28-35
We are not called to follow Jesus alone. We need a church, we need church leaders, and we need the church to hold on to sturdy summaries of the Scriptures. Why? Paul knew that in time “fierce wolves [would] come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them” (20:29-30). Churches keep us from wandering off alone. Church leaders protect us from wolves. And sturdy summaries keep us from “twisted things” that “draw away” God’s people. This is one of the reasons our church uses the Westminster Standards. Thank God for our church and for faithful summaries of his teachings.

Day 5: Verses 36-38
Christians love one another. The church is meant to be a family where we truly care for one another. As Paul prepared to leave, the church prayed, embraced, and wept. Thank God for putting you into a church family. Consider what it looks like for our church to love each other well. 

Catechism Connection: 7-8
We are living out God’s plan in the world today. We live where He has placed us (Acts 17), and on the mission to which He has called us (2 Cor 5). He is working out his “eternal purpose, according to the counsel of his will… for his own glory” (WSC 7). He is providentially working in his creation (WSC 8). You are part of his plan; live for Him. 

Monthly Memory: Ephesians 2:4-5
4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 2/8

Day 1: Verses 1-10
Much of what Paul and the other disciples were doing in Ephesus was helping people who needed to continue to learn and grow. In the last chapter, Apollos was instructed by Priscilla and Aquila. Now, as Paul passed through the same city, there was a group that had believed in John’s message to repent and trust that God’s Messiah was coming. They had responded in faith, but they had not learned about the death of Jesus, his resurrection, or the coming of the Holy Spirit. The Christian life is a journey to know Him better through the Bible. So Paul followed up this experience by preaching the Word for months. Ask God to help us learn his Word and continue to grow.

Day 2: Verses 11-20
The sons of Sceva were trying to do God’s work without a real knowledge of God. They were imposters who were overpowered by demonic powers. This experience showed the followers of Jesus that were not playing a game. The life of discipleship costs everything. So they brought out the tools of their pagan practices and burned them in sight of all (19:19). Today, we pray that “the word of the Lord [will continue] to increase and prevail mightily” (19:20). And this means that our anti-Christian practices need to be destroyed as well. What does God’s Word teach about what we listen to, read, or watch? 

Day 3: Verses 21-27
Not everyone likes the change that the gospel brings. In Ephesus, it threatened industry and wealth, along with the reputation of the city. In following Jesus, we must be willing to count everything else as loss. Pray that God would help us stand for Him when the world says He is not worth it.

Day 4: Verses 28-34
Here we see a worship-battle. The people cried out, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!” (19:28). They understood that Paul and the other Christians were saying that Artemis and other idols are nothing (1 Cor 8:4). And the truth is that the gospel does make exclusive claims. If Jesus is Lord, I am not. And Allah is not. And Artemis is not. We cannot follow Christ and live for someone or something else. Ask God to help you follow Him alone regardless of what others think or do.

Day 5: Verses 35-41
This riot ended when the people were presented with the possibility of consequences from the Romans: “we really are in danger of being charged with rioting today” (19:40). They didn’t understand that there is an authority higher than the Romans. Jesus said to fear the One who can kill the body as well as the soul (Matt 10:28). Pray that God would help us to live our lives following and fearing Him. We must care most about what He thinks of how we live.

Catechism Connection: 1-3, 28, 38
We exist to glorify and enjoy God (WSC 1), and the Word of God in the Bible is God’s way of showing us what to believe and how to live (WSC 2-3). Living the life of faith matters because Jesus is “coming to judge the world on the last day” (WSC 28) and believers will be “acknowledged and acquitted in the day of judgment and will be made perfectly blessed in the full enjoyment of God to all eternity” (WSC 38). 

Monthly Memory: Ephesians 2:4-5
4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.

The goal of this simple prayer guide is to help our church unite in prayer for the next generation.

This matters. And your prayers will make a difference. Why? 

• Because we are in a fight. Paul famously speaks about the armor of God, but we often miss the conclusion of that section which says, that after picking up the sword of the Spirit, we must also be “praying at all times in the Spirit… with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints” (Eph 6:18). Prayer is a God-given weapon in the hands of his church.
• Because prayer brings faith to the fight. 1 John 5:14 says, “This is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.” The act of prayer is an act of trust. We believe God hears.
• Because God responds to the prayers of his people. The Bible teaches, “The prayer of a righteous person has great power” (Jas 5:16). God responds to prayer by fighting for his people (Ex 15:13). He is mighty in battle (Ps 24:8). Victory belongs to the Lord (Prov 21:31). 

And we all understand that our young people desperately need God to actively intervene in their lives. We need God to keep them safe; to “lead them not into temptation.” We need God to give them direction, hope, and meaning; to have life abundant. We need God to give them faith, to give them wisdom, to give them joy.

We pray because we are in a fight, and we need God to work and win on our behalf.

So I am asking all of us to put in some hard work as we fight the fight of prayer. I’m asking you to take a few minutes, once a week, to S.W.E.A.T. while you pray for our kids and youth. Pray for their:

• Salvation. That they would come to know Christ and walk with Him for all of their days. That God would save them and keep them safe in relationship with Him  
• Wisdom. That they would not live as fools who destroy or waste their lives. That they would pursue the godly life because our God is true, good, and beautiful.
• Environment. That their homes and schools, along with our church would be Bible-saturated, gospel-rich, mission-filled, prayer-led, repentance-modeling, worship-inducing, and joy-fueling.
• Attentiveness. That they would not be distracted by the noise or busyness of the modern world. That their lives would be characterized by seeking the Lord through Scripture and prayer. 
• Team. That God would connect them to exactly the right people in exactly the right ways: friends, teachers, teammates, future spouses, coaches, pastors, employers, parents, and siblings. 

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 2/1

Day 1: Verses 1-4
In Acts 18, we can see that many people were experiencing uncertainty and change. Aquila, along with all the other Jewish people, had been kicked out of Rome. But one thing was still certain: God was in control. He connected Paul and Aquila in Corinth. And He put Paul in position to persuade the people of that city every week. Who are the people that God has given you a chance to influence on a regular basis? How can you make the most of that opportunity?

Day 2: Verses 5-11
Paul was “occupied with the Word” (18:5). That is how we should all want our lives to be described. But even as many Corinthians were trusting in the Lord, he still experienced discouragement. But God gave Paul the right kind of encouragement at the right time. God said, “Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent, for I am with you… for I have many in this city who are my people” (18:9-10). Paul pressed forward in his mission because he was reminded that God was with him and that God was working through him. And that same Lord is with you and works through you too.

Day 3: Verses 12-17
Gallio was an important Roman official. And he had likely seen many kinds of disagreements and crimes. He thought that this argument was one for the Jewish people only, but he was missing something important: God’s moral law is for all people. Jesus summed up the law as the command “to love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves.” There is nothing more important than that.

Day 4: Verses 18-23
Paul stopped in Ephesus and did what he always did: reasoned from the Scriptures in the synagogue. This was his pattern, and it aligned with his God-given gifts. However, he didn’t stay in Ephesus like he did in Corinth. Instead, he left Priscilla and Aquila there to carry on the mission. God’s gospel ministry is carried out as his followers all go and make disciples (Matt 28:18-20). We are all important members of the team. What is your role on God’s mission team? How can you carry it out today?

Day 5: Verses 24-28
This is a beautiful picture of the discipleship process. Someone had instructed Apollos in the way (18:25). And he was passionately sharing. More experienced disciples helped him continue to learn and grow (18:26). And then the church continued to support him in his Bible-based ministry (18:27-28). Pray that our church would be instructing, correcting, training, and sending like this too.

Catechism Connection: 40-44
All people are subject to God’s moral laws. We must love and obey Him as our Savior and Lord. How do we do that? God has given us “the moral law… summarized in the Ten Commandments” (WSC 41). These commands call us to love God with all of who we are and to love our neighbor as ourselves. Why should we do this? Because Jesus “is the Lord, and our God and redeemer” (WSC 44). This is how we love the God who loved us first.

Monthly Memory: Ephesians 2:4-5
4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 1/25

Day 1: Verses 1-9
Paul had a pattern—a strategy—for sharing the Good News with the Jewish people. He “reasoned from the Scriptures” to point to Jesus (17:2). His strategy was powerful because the Word of God is powerful. In this episode, Jewish people along with “a great many” Greeks and leading women joined the church (17:4). But with the good came the bad: an uproar. The Christian mission is a battle. Pray that God would use you, lead you, and protect you as you reason from the Scriptures. 

Day 2: Verses 10-15
At this next stop, we see something amazing! When the missionaries taught, their message was measured against the Scriptures (17:11). As a result, many believed (17:12). Those who trust God’s Word will see it pointing to Christ because the Spirit has authored the Bible to point to Jesus. In the midst of this beautiful scene, conflict struck again. But in the face of this conflict, some of the missionary team—Silas and Timothy—stayed to keep working with this group for a while. Ask God to give you wisdom to follow Him wherever He leads.

Day 3: Verses 16-21
When Paul came to Athens, many people were interested in what he had to say. Those who “lived there would spend their time in nothing except telling or hearing something new” (17:21). God, in his wisdom, used this culture’s interest in a new thing to share with them the true thing. Praise God that He can use our disordered desires to introduce us to Himself.

Day 4: Verses 22-31
The people of Athens had an incorrect view of God. And so Paul introduced them to “the God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth” (17:24). He told them that God is not “gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of man” (17:29). The true God is Jesus Christ who has been raised from the dead (17:31). Today, our world needs to know that God is not money, fame, security, popularity, comfort, health, or power. Pray that the Spirit would help you to lead others away from idols and toward Christ.

Day 5: Verses 32-34
When they heard about the resurrection, some people mocked Paul. Other people wanted to hear more. And still others believed. When we share, people can respond in all of these ways as well. However, we need to remember that their response is not up to us. Our job is to share and to love as we point to Jesus. And we can trust that He will work in the way that is best. 

Catechism Connection: WSC 5, 4, 36
Our world today needs to know who the true God really is. “There is only one, the living and true God” (WSC 5). And what is He like? “God is a spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth” (WSC 4). And this matters to us because when we know Him, we experience “God’s love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, increase of grace, and perseverance in it to the end” (WSC 36). 

Monthly Memory: 1 John 1:8-9
8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 1/18

Day 1: Verses 1-10
Paul found another ministry partner named Timothy. And Timothy was a Greek disciple. As the gospel was spreading to the world, Gentiles were joining in the mission. Together, they taught what had been given to them from the Apostles and the Holy Spirit directed their steps. And this is still what we strive to do today! We strive to preach the Word and follow the Spirit. Ask God to lead you by his Spirit today.

Day 2: Verses 11-15
Paul and his team were proactive in looking for places where they could preach the Good News. But it was God who did the most important work: “The Lord opened [Lydia’s] heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul” (16:14). God made her alive through the preaching of the Good News. Notice that this didn’t happen in a church, but at the riverside. Where is a “riverside” where you can share the gospel? Ask the Holy Spirit to use your words like He did with Paul.

Day 3: Verses 16-24
When Paul and Silas set a girl free, they ended up in prison themselves. There can be a high cost for following Jesus. And many people might not like or understand what Christians do when they live according to God’s Word. Those who reject the gospel will also reject the people of the gospel. However, this difficulty does not mean that God stopped working. He can lead us through pain to shape us and position us best for his work. Ask God to help you to trust Him even when the situation is difficult.

Day 4: Verses 25-34
Paul and Silas were singing God’s praises even when they had been beaten and imprisoned. And they didn’t see the jailer as their enemy, but as their opportunity. And, sure enough, the Holy Spirit guided the jailer to the Good News and saved him through preaching. Upon hearing the Good News, the jailer believed, was baptized with his family, and found joy in Christ. Thank God for his saving work in your life. Ask Him to use you for the saving joy of others.

Day 5: Verses 35-40
Before leaving town, Paul and Silas made sure to visit Lydia and encourage the brothers (16:40). Believers need encouragement. We all need encouragement. This new church included a wealthy woman, a Roman jailer, and (possibly) a formerly demon-possessed slave-girl. Their new lives in Christ would require change. And each of them would face unique struggles. And that is part of why we have one another: so that we can encourage and help one another. Who is someone in the church that could use your encouragement today?  

Catechism Connection: WSC 89, 29
In this chapter, we see over and over that “the redemption purchased by Christ” is effectively applied to us “by his Holy Spirit” (WSC 29). And how does the Spirit do that? He makes “the reading of the Word… especially the preaching of it, an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners and of building them up” (WSC 89).

Monthly Memory: 1 John 1:8-9
8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 1/11

Day 1: Verses 1-5
It might seem strange that some early believers were saying, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved” (15:1). But circumcision had been the sign of God’s covenant for 2000 years. And the Law of Moses made it clear that to come into God’s covenant community, outsiders needed to have this sign (Ex 12:48). Therefore, it was understandable that some in the early church were misunderstanding circumcision. And misunderstandings still arise today. Pray that God’s Spirit would guide our understanding so that we can follow Christ rightly.  

Day 2: Verses 6-11
Outspoken Peter brought wisdom to the table here. He reminded the leaders that God “cleansed their hearts by faith,” not by circumcision or other actions (15:9). All who are saved are “saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus” (15:11). In one of his letters, Paul would later write, saying, “those of faith… are the sons of Abraham” and God had always planned to save the nations by faith (Gal 3:7-8). It all comes down to faith: trust in the Lord with all your heart (Prov 3:5).

Day 3: Verses 12-21
Pointing to Scripture, James wisely stated: “We should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God” (15:19). Those in leadership are not called to burden those who they lead. Rather, they call the church to holiness and fruitfulness according to the Word. This does mean staying away from evil. This does mean living differently than the outside world. But because Jesus fulfilled the Law, “we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ” (Gal 2:16).

Day 4: Verses 22-35
There had been a great deal of debate and discussion among the elders about circumcision and the Law. However, they trusted the Word and they were led by the Spirit. God worked through this process to bring joy to those who had been struggling. When they read the elders’ letter, “they rejoiced because of its encouragement” (15:31). Ask God to work in your life through his Word and Spirit to direct your path, to correct errors, and to bring encouragement to others.

Day 5: Verses 36-41
Barnabas and Paul had been an effective team for the gospel. However, they had different convictions about Mark. This led them to go minister in different places in different ways. Even those who share core beliefs can differ on important convictions. At times, this can lead to division. However, this kind of division can be led by God to accomplish his purposes. Pray that God would direct your convictions and use them to direct you wherever He wants you to go.

Catechism Connection: WSC 86, 30, 33
Being right with God all comes down to faith: “a saving grace by which we receive and rest on him alone for salvation” (WSC 86). God saves us by “creating faith in us” (WSC 30). And we are made right with Him “only because of the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, received by faith alone” (WSC 33).  

Monthly Memory: 1 John 1:8-9
8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 1/4

Day 1: Verses 1-7
Sometimes God’s people encounter a hostile mission field. In this passage, “unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers” (14:2). So did they give up? No! Instead, they “remained for a long time,” and “spoke boldly for the Lord.” And God demonstrated his kindness by “granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands” (14:3). God has called us to a consistent, bold faith. Ask the Lord to give you boldness for his gospel today, and ask Him to empower your efforts like only He can.

Day 2: Verses 8-15
The people started to heap praise on Paul and Barnabas when they did God’s works. And praise can be trap because it can lead us to pride. Barnabas and Paul saw through this and rejected the praise of people, saying, “We also are men, of like nature with you, and we bring you good news.” Instead of being gods, they were God’s messengers calling out “Turn from these vain things to a living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them” (14:15). Ask God to help you not to think too highly of yourselves, and to think ever more highly of Him.

Day 3: Verses 16-18
God has always had a plan. Initially, He let the nations to “walk in their own ways” (14:16). He was kind in giving them life and joy. But when the time was right, He dosed his kindness even more clearly: He sent out his ambassadors to point all people toward his ways. How can you live as Christ’s ambassador today? 

Day 4: Verses 19-22
Paul was stoned and left for dead. And the next day, he preached the Good News. He wanted to build up the church, “strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God” (14:22). He was practicing what he preached because he believed the kingdom was worth the tribulation. Pray for those who are experiencing persecution for their faith today. Ask God to strengthen and encourage them. 

Day 5: Verses 23-28
When Paul and Barnabas helped to start new churches, they made sure to appoint elders in every church. The elders were charged with leading through teaching and example. The word for elder here is “presbuteros,” and you can see the connection to the word “presbyterian.” Pray that the elders in our church would seek and represent the mind of Christ. 

Catechism Connection: WSC 47, 64
Paul and Barnabas had to remember that Scripture forbids taking “worship and glory, which is due to him alone” (WSC 47). We must all vigilantly fight against thinking too highly of ourselves. We are to rightly honor and serve everyone “whether [they are] in authority over us, under our authority, or equals” (WSC 64). 

Recently, we had the joy of bringing our four young children to be baptized in our church. And I have had people ask a variety of questions about why we did that. The answer is because we want to follow what God teaches us in the Bible. With Luther, we can say, “My conscience is captive to the Word of God.”  So here is a very short overview of a few of the biblical truths that were influential to me regarding the baptism of my kids. If you'd like to talk more about it, I would be excited to do that!

In the New Testament, Paul’s letter to the Colossian church assumes that children in the church have already been baptized. 
In Colossians 2:12, we see that the recipients of the letter had been “buried… in baptism.” And in the next chapter, we see that children are included as part of Paul’s intended audience (3:20). The logic is clear:

Premise 1: Paul understood that the recipients of his letter had already been baptized.
Premise 2: Paul included children as recipients of his letter.
Conclusion: Paul understood that the children in that church had been baptized.

Paul was not afraid to confront inappropriate practices, so if baptizing the church’s children was not correct, he almost certainly would have addressed it. So we can be confident that in the New Testament church, it was normal for children of believers to be baptized.

Throughout biblical history, children of believers have been given the sign of the covenant, and the New Testament carries that pattern forward.
Children of believers are different from children of non-believers. 1 Corinthians 7:14, says that the children of at least one believing parent are not unclean, but are set apart as holy. This does not mean that they are saved, but that they are members of God’s covenant community—the visible church.

Starting with Abraham, covenant children were to be given the covenant sign: circumcision (Gen 17:10-11). This was not a national sign (there was no nation of Israel yet), but a family sign for Abraham and his children. The New Testament teaches that the covenant sign of circumcision has been replaced with baptism which is called “the circumcision of Christ”:

In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead (Col 2:11-12). 

Therefore, we should also obey God by applying the covenant sign—baptism—to those He has set apart as holy.

Faith is essential, but God has made it clear that He does not require that covenant children have faith before receiving the covenant sign.
In the Old Testament, circumcision was a sign of faith. Those born into God’s people were circumcised before being given faith and those who came into the covenant community from the outside needed to be circumcised after believing in the Lord. Abraham was circumcised after believing and his children were circumcised before believing, and circumcision remained a sign of faith for both groups.

The purpose [of Abraham being circumcised after believing God] was to make him the father of all who believe without being circumcised, so that righteousness would be counted to them as well, and to make him the father of the circumcised who are not merely circumcised but who also walk in the footsteps of the faith that our father Abraham had before he was circumcised (Rom 4:11-12).

The Bible clearly shows that God designed his covenant signs to be connected with faith, but not always preceded by faith. Children of believers are called to walk in the “footsteps of faith” after receiving the covenant sign.

When we, as believers, baptize our children, we are exercising faith as children of Abraham because we believe God’s promise to be our God and the God of our children after us. We are called to trust Him for our children's salvation just like Abraham: the man of faith (Gal 3:9).

There is much more in Scripture that we can't explore here. Peter echoes Genesis 17 in calling new believers and their children to baptism in Acts 2. There are numerous household baptisms in the New Testament that deserve exploration. The Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8) was baptized in a place and manner that was not a public profession of faith. Moses was nearly killed by God for neglecting to give the covenant sign to his kids (Ex 4). John the Baptist was filled with the Holy Spirit before being born (Luke 1:15) and leapt for joy in Christ in the womb (Luke 1:41) showing that there is much we don’t know about when or how God works in those He calls holy. All of the people of Israel (including children and babies) were baptized in the Red Sea (1 Cor 10:1-5). Peter's connects of baptism to God's pledge and to Noah's family (1 Pet 3). And so much more.

I understand that there are many theological differences present in this discussion. And it is good news that this is not a primary, salvation-level issue. Paul said that God sent him to preach rather than to baptize (1 Cor 1:17). And my goal here is not to argue, but to share some of our journey. These are some of the things that stood out to me in the Scriptures. Believers can’t really disagree about things like the Trinity, the authority and inspiration of the Bible, and the resurrection of Christ. Those are central things. However, Christians can disagree on baptism and still work together very closely. And I pray that everyone who reads this will do so with charity and with the desire to follow wherever God leads in his Book.

So to sum up: why did we bring our children to be baptized? Because in the Bible, we see that God has made a covenant with our family and has called us to mark our kids with his covenant sign. What He offers, we do not want to try to withhold. What He commands, we want to do. In other words, we joyfully brought our kids to be baptized because “the Bible tells me so.”

At-Home Bible Guide for the Week of 12/28

Day 1: Verses 1-5
God’s church is for all kinds of people. This chapter starts with an amazing mix of people worshiping God: prophets, a former Pharisee, and even a friend of Herod. The Holy Spirit called them to send Paul and Barnabas into the mission field. We know the Holy Spirit still sends people out in our modern times. Take a minute to pray for the missionaries that our church supports. And consider what it looks like for you to be on God’s mission today.

Day 2: Verses 6-12
Paul, Barnabas, and John were on a missions trip. And they didn’t see results right away. They worked through a whole island, speaking about Jesus before they saw a breakthrough. And this happened when they experienced a challenge: Bar-Jesus was speaking against them. However, nothing is challenging to God. And when God won this encounter, the local ruler put his faith in Jesus. Ask God to help you to press on in faithfulness over the long-term and in the face of challenges too.

Day 3: Verses 13-25
God worked it out so that Paul would have an opportunity to speak in the synagogue. And Paul shared about how God worked out his perfect plan over a long, long time. And it all pointed to the “Savior, Jesus, as he promised” (13:23). When you get a chance to speak, take it and make your words count. Ask God to help you share about Him whenever He makes the opportunity.

Day 4: Verses 26-41
This part of the message is all about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. And Paul made it clear. However, he also made it clear that the people of Israel “did not recognize [Jesus] nor understand the utterances of the prophets, which are read every Sabbath” (13:27). They might have known the Bible, but not the God of the Bible. Pray that we wouldn’t fall into that trap in our lives. 

Day 5: Verses 42-52
Sometimes we think that happiness and hardship don’t go together, but that is not always true. In this section, there are several messages about the joy that God’s people experienced even as they went through hardships. Ask God to give you the joy of your salvation even in the face of very real pain and difficulty.

Catechism Connection: WSC 101-102
We are on God’s mission just like Paul, Barnabas, and John. Have you ever considered that when we pray the Lord’s Prayer each week, we are praying a missions-prayer? When we pray that our Father’s name would be hallowed,  we pray “that God would enable us and others to glorify him in everything by which he makes himself known, and that he would direct all things to his own glory” (WSC 101). And when we ask that his kingdom would come, “we pray that Satan’s kingdom may be destroyed, that the kingdom of grace may be advanced and ourselves and others may be brought into it and kept in it” (WSC 102).