Daily Bible Study Winter 2015-16

Book excerpt: Sacred Gifts and Holy Gatherings This winter, Daily Bible Study follows the theme “Sacred Gifts and Holy Gatherings.” These daily readings, which prepare us for the 13 lessons in Adult Bible Studies, are written by Sue Mink, Randy Cross, and Gary Thompson. Unit 1 What We Bring to God The quarter’s first four lessons explore the concepts of sabbath, giving offerings, celebrations, and giving from the heart by examining biblical texts from Exodus, Leviticus, Luke, Matthew, and Mark. Unit 2 Four Weddings and a Funeral The first lesson in this unit reviews the relationship between Jacob and Rachel from the Book of Genesis, followed by a lesson from the Song of Solomon. The third lesson examines the relationship between Hosea and Gomer and deals with broken relationships, while the fourth lesson takes us to the Gospel of John and Jesus’ miracle at the wedding in Cana. The final lesson in this unit, also from John’s Gospel, deals with the death of Jesus’ dear friend Lazarus. Unit 3 Holy Days The four lessons that conclude this quarter’s study examine the holy days of Passover, celebrating God’s deliverance of the people as recorded in Exodus; the Feast of Weeks or Pentecost; the Day of Atonement; and the Festival of Booths, described in Leviticus. This ongoing day-by-day Bible study series is presented in quarterly segments. Bible-based, Christ-focused, and United Methodist-approved, this resource helps individuals develop the discipline of studying the Bible every day. It coordinates with the lesson themes of Adult Bible Studies. Each lesson includes: a one-page Bible study for each day of the quarter, along with introductory reflection questions and Commentary on the daily Scripture passage, Life Application, and a concluding prayer. Available in regular print or as an eBook.