Grow Stronger Roots

Small Group Study: The Ascension of Jesus (KJV)

Theme: The Ascension is not an absence, but an enthronement—and it changes how we live today. Main Texts: Luke 24:50–53; Acts 1:8–11; Mark 16:19; Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 4:14–16; Philippians 3:20–21 (all KJV)

1. Opening

Icebreaker: Share about a time when someone’s “leaving” actually turned out to be for your good. What made the difference?
Prayer: Invite the group to ask God for fresh eyes to see the Ascension as good news.

2. Read & Reflect

The Story

Read Luke 24:50–53 and Acts 1:9–11 aloud.
Ask:
- What stands out about Jesus’ actions and words in these moments?
- Why do you think the disciples felt “great joy” after He left (Luke 24:52, KJV)?

3. Dig In

A. Enthronement, Not Absence

Read Psalm 110:1 and Ephesians 1:20–23.
Discuss: How does Jesus’ position at the right hand of God affect our daily confidence?

B. A Throne of Grace

Read Hebrews 4:14–16; Romans 8:34.
Discuss: How does knowing Jesus intercedes for you change the way you pray?

C. Spirit-Empowered Mission

Read Acts 1:8; Acts 2:33.
Discuss: How does the Ascension connect to the giving of the Holy Spirit?
How have you experienced His empowerment in your own life?

D. Hope for His Return

Read Philippians 3:20–21; Revelation 1:7.
Discuss: How does the promise of His return shape your priorities today?

4. Apply It

Invite each person to choose one action for this week:

Approach the “throne of grace” daily with specific requests.
Share a word of hope or prayer with someone in your circle.
Practice “lifting your eyes” by meditating on a passage about His reign.

5. Closing Prayer

Thank Jesus for being ascended yet near—our King, Priest, and returning Lord. Ask for courage, joy, and a fresh awareness of His presence in the coming week.

Optional Bonus: Memory Verse

“Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.” —Hebrews 4:14 (KJV)

The ascension of Jesus: Lifted up, seated, and still near

The Ascension is not Jesus’ goodbye—it’s His enthronement. On a hillside outside Jerusalem, with hands lifted in blessing, He was “carried up into heaven,” and His friends returned to the city “with great joy” (Luke 24:50–53, KJV). Joy at a departure seems strange—unless the One who leaves is actually drawing closer in power, presence, and promise.

The story on the hill

Luke tells us Jesus led His disciples “as far as to Bethany,” blessed them, and “was parted from them, and carried up into heaven” (Luke 24:50–51, KJV). Acts adds the detail of a cloud receiving Him from their sight as two messengers promised, “this same Jesus…shall so come in like manner” (Acts 1:9–11, KJV). Mark says it simply: “he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God” (Mark 16:19, KJV).

What the Ascension means

Enthronement, not absence
- The risen Son takes His seat at the Father’s right hand—the long-awaited fulfillment of “Sit thou at my right hand” (Psalm 110:1, KJV). Daniel foresaw the Son of Man given “dominion, and glory, and a kingdom” (Daniel 7:13–14, KJV). Now, “all power is given unto me in heaven and in earth,” Jesus declares (Matthew 28:18, KJV), and God has “put all things under his feet” for the sake of His church (Ephesians 1:20–23, KJV).
A throne of grace for wounded people
- Because our “great high priest…is passed into the heavens,” we can “come boldly unto the throne of grace” (Hebrews 4:14–16, KJV). He “ever liveth to make intercession” (Hebrews 7:25, KJV); He is “at the right hand of God…making intercession for us” (Romans 8:34, KJV). When shame whispers and fear grips, remember: “we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1, KJV).
The Spirit poured out for a scattered world
- Jesus said His going was “expedient” so the Comforter would come (John 16:7, KJV). Exalted “by the right hand of God,” He “hath shed forth this” Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:33, KJV). Ascension is the hinge between resurrection life and Spirit-empowered mission.
Mission now, hope forever
- The risen King sends us: “ye shall receive power…ye shall be witnesses” (Acts 1:8, KJV). He promises presence in the going: “lo, I am with you alway” (Matthew 28:20, KJV). And He will return: “this same Jesus…shall so come” (Acts 1:11, KJV); “every eye shall see him” (Revelation 1:7, KJV). Our hope is an “anchor of the soul…within the veil,” where our Forerunner has gone (Hebrews 6:19–20, KJV).

How the Ascension meets us where we live

When God feels distant
- The right hand of God is not far away; it is authority over every place you’ll step today. “Seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth” (Colossians 3:1, KJV). Lift your eyes—not to escape the world, but to receive strength for it.
When prayer feels pointless
- You are not shouting into the void. You are welcomed to a throne, where your Brother and Priest speaks your name (Hebrews 4:14–16; 7:25, KJV). Pray as if the King is listening—because He is.
When courage runs thin
- The Ascended One has “angels and authorities and powers” subject to Him (1 Peter 3:22, KJV). Your courage doesn’t come from being fearless; it comes from being accompanied.
When your body aches
- The One who ascended bears a human body—glorified, but scarred. He promises to “change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body” (Philippians 3:20–21, KJV). Your future is embodied, healed, and face-to-face.

Five ways to live an ascension-shaped life

Practice bold nearness: Each morning, name three needs and “come boldly” to the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16, KJV).
Witness with Presence: As you go—work, errands, conversations—remember “I am with you alway” and risk a gentle word of hope (Matthew 28:20, KJV).
Sing enthronement: Pray Psalm 110 out loud. Let worship realign your fears with His seat.
Ask for the Spirit: Jesus ascended to give gifts (Psalm 68:18; Ephesians 4:8, KJV). Ask for what you lack: love, wisdom, courage, gentleness.
Hold the horizon: When anxiety spikes, whisper Acts 1:11 and Revelation 1:7. He is coming. Let that promise loosen hurry and tighten hope.

The Ascension in a single thread

He blesses, He rises, He reigns; He intercedes, He sends, He will return. The cloud that once hid Him will one day unveil Him. Until then, our “conversation is in heaven,” and from there we live, love, and look for Him (Philippians 3:20, KJV).

A short prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, ascended and near, lift my eyes and steady my heart. Seat me today under Your blessing and send me in Your power. Make Your intercession my courage and Your promise my peace—until the day every eye sees You. Amen.

Small Group Study: “Purpose over Praise” — Living Out Colossians 3:23

“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” — Colossians 3:23 (KJV)

Duration

45–60 minutes

Opening Prayer (5 minutes)

Invite God into the conversation. Thank Him for the opportunity to gather and grow. Ask for open hearts and insights into what it means to honor Him through daily tasks.

Icebreaker (10 minutes)

Question: “What’s one task or chore you do regularly that feels totally mundane or frustrating?” Share responses briefly—this sets the stage for the study.

Bible Exploration (15 minutes)

Read aloud: Colossians 3:22–24 for added context.

Discussion Prompts:

What does “do it heartily” mean in our everyday lives?
Who are the “men” we sometimes work to please? How does that affect our attitude?
How does knowing we work for God change how we approach our tasks—big and small?

Cross-Reference: Look at Ecclesiastes 9:10 and 1 Corinthians 10:31. How do these verses echo the same theme?

Real-Life Application (15 minutes)

Prompt: “Think about your week—school, work, parenting, errands. Where can you apply this verse in a practical way?”

Challenge: Choose one daily task this week to intentionally dedicate to God. Write it down and share next time you meet.

Group Activity (Optional, 10 minutes)

Title: “Sanctifying the Ordinary” Provide sticky notes and pens. Have each member write one task they often dread (e.g. laundry, emails, commutes). Then, write how it could glorify God. Post on a wall or board.

Wrap-Up & Prayer (5 minutes)

Pray for each member’s week ahead—that their work, no matter how ordinary, would be infused with purpose and offered as worship.

Bonus: Group Reflection Journal

Encourage members to keep a simple journal this week noting moments when they remembered Colossians 3:23 in action.

Purpose Over Praise: Finding Sacred Meaning in Everyday Work

Colossians 3:23 (KJV)

“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”

By far my favorite verse in the Bible! We live in a world obsessed with recognition. Likes, promotions, compliments—they’re the modern-day gold stars. But Colossians 3:23 offers a radically different take. It challenges us to elevate our daily grind into something sacred. Whether we’re cleaning floors or closing deals, what if every task could be seen as holy work?

The Heart of the Matter

This verse isn’t just about working hard—it’s about working from the heart. That’s the game changer. Heartfelt work transcends performance. It’s about integrity, sincerity, and honoring God through effort, not applause.

A barista making coffee with care is honoring God.
A student studying late into the night is offering their dedication as worship.
A parent cleaning up toys for the hundredth time is modeling service with joy.

Reframing the Routine

Life isn’t always glamorous. Sometimes it feels repetitive, unnoticed, or even thankless. Colossians 3:23 flips that narrative:

Your worth isn’t defined by your manager’s approval.
Your effort isn’t wasted, even if no one sees it.
Your work carries spiritual value—not just financial or social reward.

This verse reminds us that there’s an audience of One who values the hidden moments of diligence, compassion, and excellence.

Living It Out

So how do we live Colossians 3:23 when the work feels boring, or overwhelming, or just plain hard?

Start with gratitude: Every opportunity to work is a chance to serve.
Center your focus: Instead of chasing recognition, chase impact.
Invite God in: Ask Him to use your tasks—even the mundane—for something meaningful.

Final Thought

Colossians 3:23 isn’t about hustle—it’s about heart. It asks us to shift from “What can I get from this?” to “How can I glorify God through this?”

When we stop working for people and start working through faith, even the ordinary becomes extraordinary.

For further study or information check out my books on Amazon.

Small Group Study: “Artificial Intelligence, the Internet, and the Return of Jesus”

Objective

This Small Group Study should be used in conjunction with the post, “The Internet, AI, and Jesus return.” Equip participants to understand how rapid advances in AI and the Internet relate to biblical prophecy, identify opportunities and pitfalls for sharing the Gospel in a digital age, and commit to wise, Spirit-led use of technology as we await Christ’s return.

Materials

Bibles or Bible apps
Printed summary of the blog post “Artificial Intelligence, the Internet, and the Return of Jesus: A Biblical Perspective”
Note-taking supplies

Opening (10 minutes)

Welcome and quick fellowship
Opening Prayer “Father, thank You for the tools You’ve given us—AI and the Internet. Grant us wisdom to use them for Your glory as we watch and pray for Jesus’ return. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Read and Reflect (10 minutes)

Read Daniel 12:4 (KJV): “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book… many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.”
Briefly review the blog post’s key points:
- AI and the Internet accelerate travel, communication, and information—fulfilling Daniel’s prophecy.
- These tools offer unprecedented avenues for global evangelism and discipleship.
- They also bring risks: misinformation, ethical gray areas, and spiritual distraction.
- Believers are called to discern truth, steward technology wisely, and leverage it for the Great Commission.

Discussion Questions (30 minutes)

1. Prophetic Fulfillment

In what ways have you seen “many shall run to and fro, and knowledge… increased” in the last decade?
How does recognizing prophecy in our era impact your worldview as a believer?

2. Opportunities for the Gospel

Share an example where you or someone you know used social media, AI chatbots, or online platforms to point others to Jesus.
What advantages do AI-driven tools (translation apps, chatbots, content-creation software) offer for Bible teaching and evangelism?

3. Challenges and Ethical Considerations

What are some dangers of AI-generated content or online algorithms when it comes to truth and discernment?
How can we guard against deception and information overload in our personal and church life?

4. Grounding Ourselves in Wisdom

Read Philippians 4:8. How can this verse guide your online activity and your evaluation of digital content?
What spiritual disciplines (Scripture intake, prayer, community accountability) help you maintain clarity amid the digital noise?

5. The Great Commission in a Digital Age

Read Matthew 28:18–20. How does Jesus’ command shape the way we leverage technology?
Brainstorm concrete steps your group or church could take to integrate AI or Internet tools into local and global outreach.

Application & Commitment (10 minutes)

Choose one practical action this week:
- Test an AI translation or transcription tool by sharing Scripture in a new language group.
- Start a weekly blog post, podcast clip, or social-media story about a Scripture passage.
- Form an “online prayer chain” using group chat or video calls.
Accountability: Pair up and agree to pray for each other’s digital witness and to report back at the next meeting.

Closing Prayer (5 minutes)

“Lord, thank You for the surge of information and connection You’ve allowed in this generation. Help us use these gifts to point others to Jesus, not to ourselves. Give us boldness to share and wisdom to discern. Keep our eyes fixed on Your return. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Artificial Intelligence, the Internet, and the Return of Jesus

This subject has stirred my spirit for years, because I’m convinced we are living in a moment unlike any other in human history. The digital age is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, with artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet transforming not only how we communicate and think—but even how we engage with faith. For believers, these sweeping changes prompt a vital question: Could these technologies be woven into the prophetic timeline that leads to the return of Jesus? While the Bible doesn’t mention AI or the internet by name, it speaks with eternal wisdom that can guide us in understanding their role within God’s unfolding plan.

Knowledge Shall Increase

“But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” — Daniel 12:4 (KJV)

Daniel’s prophecy speaks of a time when knowledge would explode. Today, AI systems can analyze vast datasets in seconds, and the internet connects billions of people across the globe. This surge in knowledge and mobility seems to echo Daniel’s vision of the end times.

The Gospel to All Nations

“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” — Matthew 24:14 (KJV)

Digital evangelism is now a reality. AI-powered translation tools, live streamed sermons, and online ministries are reaching places once inaccessible. The internet may be the very means by which the gospel fulfills Jesus’ prophecy—preached to all nations before His return.

The Image of the Beast?

“And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.” — Revelation 13:15 (KJV)

This chilling prophecy describes a speaking image that demands worship. Could AI-generated avatars or synthetic beings be precursors to such deception? While speculative, the rise of lifelike digital entities reminds us to remain vigilant and spiritually discerning.

Thessalonians: Deception and the Day of the Lord

Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians offer crucial insight into the spiritual climate preceding Christ’s return.

“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed…who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God.” — 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4 (KJV)

Paul warns of a great apostasy and the rise of the “man of sin”—often interpreted as the Antichrist. In a world saturated with digital media and AI-generated content, deception can spread faster than ever. Deepfakes, misinformation, and algorithmic manipulation could be tools in the hands of those who oppose truth.

“And then shall that Wicked be revealed…even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders.” — 2 Thessalonians 2:8–9 (KJV)

AI may one day be used to produce “lying wonders”—false miracles or signs that lead people astray. Paul’s words urge believers to stay grounded in truth and not be swayed by technological marvels that lack divine origin.

The Two Witnesses: Prophetic Power in a Digital World

“And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days…And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth.” — Revelation 11:3–5 (KJV)

The Two Witnesses are among the most mysterious figures in Revelation. They preach boldly, perform miracles, and are eventually killed—only to be resurrected in full view of the world.

“And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and a half…and they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.” — Revelation 11:9, 12 (KJV)

How could the entire world witness this event? Before the internet, this seemed impossible. Today, livestreams and global media make such real-time visibility plausible. AI could even amplify their message—translating their words instantly, broadcasting their testimony, and countering the lies of the Antichrist.

The Rapture: A Global Awakening

“For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:15–17 (KJV)

Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen. Rev 1:7

This breathtaking promise of the rapture describes a moment of divine intervention that transcends all human technology. Yet in a world connected by satellites, smartphones, and AI-driven media, the visibility and impact of such an event could be global and immediate. Imagine the shockwaves across digital platforms as millions vanish and the skies erupt with glory.

Looking Up: Hope in the Midst of Innovation

“And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” — Luke 21:28 (KJV)

As AI and the internet continue to evolve, believers must remain watchful. These tools can be used for good—spreading the gospel, aiding the poor, and deepening biblical understanding. But they can also be twisted for deception and control.

Paul’s final exhortation is timeless:

“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:21 (KJV)

Let us use discernment, guided by Scripture and the Holy Spirit, to navigate this digital age. Whether AI plays a role in prophecy or not, one truth remains: Jesus is coming soon. And every tool, every advancement, every moment is an opportunity to prepare our hearts and proclaim His name.

For more information and study check out my books on Amazon.com.

Small Group Study: Divorce

This small group study is designed to facilitate thoughtful, compassionate discussion on the biblical evidence for divorce. It encourages participants to explore Scripture deeply, share perspectives, and reflect on pastoral applications. The study assumes a respectful environment and recognizes the complexity of the topic.

Study Format

Group Size: 4-8 participants
Duration: 60-75 minutes
Materials Needed: Bibles (print or digital), notepads, pens

Opening (10 minutes)

Welcome & Prayer: Invite God’s guidance and wisdom to lead the discussion.
Icebreaker Question: “What is one thing you’ve heard or thought about divorce in the Bible?”
Purpose Statement: Explain the goal: to understand what the Bible says about divorce, grounds for it, and how believers can approach it with grace and truth.

Discussion Sections and Questions

1. God’s Ideal for Marriage (10 minutes)

Read: Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:6
Questions:
- What does Scripture say about the nature and purpose of marriage?
- How do these verses shape your understanding of God’s ideal for marriage?

2. Biblical Grounds for Divorce (15 minutes)

Read: Matthew 19:9; 1 Corinthians 7:15
Questions:
- What reasons for divorce does Jesus and Paul explicitly permit?
- Why do you think sexual immorality and abandonment are given as grounds?
- Are there other situations mentioned or implied in Scripture that you think relate to divorce?

3. Addressing Hard Realities: Abuse and Brokenness (10 minutes)

Read: Ephesians 5:28-29; Malachi 2:16
Questions:
- How might abuse or destructive behavior affect marriage, even if not explicitly mentioned as grounds for divorce?
- How can the church balance God’s hatred of divorce and protecting vulnerable individuals?

4. Forgiveness, Restoration, and Pastoral Care (10 minutes)

Read: Ephesians 4:32; Psalm 34:18; 2 Corinthians 5:17
Questions:
- What role does forgiveness play in broken relationships?
- How can the church support those impacted by divorce?
- What hope does Scripture offer beyond the pain of divorce?

Application Activity (10 minutes)

Scenario Discussion: Present a hypothetical situation involving divorce (e.g., a couple facing abandonment or betrayal). Ask:
- Based on what we’ve studied, how should believers respond in this situation?
- What encouragement or guidance would you offer?

Closing (5 minutes)

Reflection: “What is one key takeaway from today’s discussion that will impact how you view or respond to divorce?”
Closing Prayer: Ask for grace, healing, and wisdom in all marriages and for those affected by divorce.

Additional Tips for Leaders

Foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere.
Encourage respectful listening and sharing.
Remind the group this study is about understanding Scripture and pastoral care, not judging individual situations.
Adapt questions to the group’s maturity and comfort level.

By guiding participants through Scripture and sensitive conversation, this small group study seeks to empower believers with biblical truth and compassionate understanding regarding divorce.

The Complex Dynamics of Divorce in Christianity

This is a topic that has bothered me for many years, as those of you that have read my books know that I have been divorced several times prior to coming to Christ.

Divorce is a deeply sensitive and complex topic within Christian communities. While the Bible consistently upholds the sanctity and permanence of marriage, it also acknowledges the realities of human brokenness and provides specific grounds under which divorce may be permitted. This post explores the biblical evidence for divorce, grounding the discussion in Scripture with thoughtful citations and pastoral sensitivity.

1. The Divine Ideal for Marriage: Permanence and Unity

The Bible establishes marriage as a sacred, lifelong covenant between a man and a woman, meant to reflect God’s covenantal love.

Genesis 2:24: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”
Matthew 19:6: Jesus affirms, “What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

These passages affirm that God’s original intention is for marriage to be unbreakable and intimate. Divorce, therefore, is not part of God’s ideal design but a concession to human frailty.

2. Divorce Permitted for Sexual Immorality

One of the clearest biblical grounds for divorce is sexual unfaithfulness or immorality, which fundamentally breaks the marital covenant.

Matthew 19:9: Jesus states, “Whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.”

The Greek term porneia used here encompasses various forms of sexual sin (including adultery and fornication), making this exception a specific allowance due to the serious breach of trust and unity represented by sexual sin.

3. Abandonment by an Unbelieving Spouse

The Apostle Paul addresses a second permissible ground for divorce when one spouse abandons the marriage, especially in mixed-faith unions.

1 Corinthians 7:15: “But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases, the brother or sister is not enslaved.”

Here, Paul acknowledges that when a non-believing spouse chooses to depart, the believing spouse is no longer bound to the marital covenant, recognizing peace and dignity for the deserted partner.

4. Implied Grounds: Abuse and Destructive Behavior

While Scripture does not explicitly list abuse as grounds for divorce, many theologians argue that abuse—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—may justify divorce under biblical principles of protecting life and honoring the marriage covenant.

Ephesians 5:28-29: Husbands are commanded to love their wives as their own bodies, not to harm them.

When repeated abuse destroys safety, dignity, and mutual respect, it may be functionally equivalent to abandonment or covenant-breaking.

5. Biblical Warnings Against Divorce and the Call to Forgiveness

Even with concessions for divorce, the Bible warns against casual dissolutions of marriage and calls for forgiveness, reconciliation, and restoration.

Malachi 2:16: “For I hate divorce,” says the Lord.
Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Matthew 19:8: Jesus notes, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning.”

These verses stress that divorce is a concession to human hardness, not a directive, and that believers should strive toward patience, mercy, and healing.

6. Examples from Scripture Illustrating Divorce and Its Consequences

Deuteronomy 24:1-4: Mosaic Law permitted divorce by certificate to protect vulnerable women, reflecting societal realities but also recognizing that divorce was a disruption to God’s plan.
Jeremiah 3:6-10: Uses the metaphor of divorce to describe Israel’s unfaithfulness to God, highlighting the pain of broken covenants.
Matthew 5:31-32; Mark 10:2-12; Luke 16:18: Jesus teaches the narrow grounds for divorce and warns of the moral consequences of remarriage after divorce.
1 Corinthians 7:10-16: Paul offers nuanced guidance emphasizing reconciliation but also acknowledging separation under certain conditions.

7. Pastoral Considerations and God’s Grace

Divorce is painful and complex. Scripture calls the church to approach those affected with compassion, offering:

Comfort to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18)
Hope for healing and new beginnings (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Support for restoration whenever possible

God’s grace is sufficient for all situations, providing forgiveness and peace whether or not reconciliation is achievable.

Key Scriptural References

Topic	Scripture Reference
Divine Ideal of Marriage	Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:6
Grounds: Sexual Immorality	Matthew 19:9; Matthew 5:32
Grounds: Abandonment	1 Corinthians 7:15
Abuse (Implied Grounds)	Ephesians 5:28-29
God’s Hatred of Divorce	Malachi 2:16

By approaching Scripture holistically, the church can offer both truth and compassion, guiding believers through the challenges of broken marriages while pointing always toward God’s grace and restorative love.

This treatment respects the complexity and pastoral sensitivity required by the topic, grounded firmly in biblical text and theological reflection.

Conclusion

The Bible upholds marriage as a sacred, lifelong union, reflecting God’s covenantal love, yet it acknowledges that in a fallen world, certain grave breaches—such as sexual immorality and abandonment—permit divorce. Other situations, like abuse, are pastorally considered under principles of protection and covenant faithfulness. Believers are called not only to understand these grounds but to walk in forgiveness, patience, and love, seeking healing and restoration.

For more information and study check out my books on Amazon.

Small Group Study: Understanding Key Disputed Bible Verses

Session Overview

This study helps us see how context, genre, and original audience shape our reading of Scripture. We’ll explore several commonly disputed verses, learn their background, discuss why they’re often misunderstood today, and discover practical ways to honor both text and context.

1. Opening and Icebreaker

Welcome everyone and open in prayer, asking for insight and humility.
Icebreaker question (2–3 minutes each):
- What’s a Bible verse you’ve heard out of context? How did it affect you?

2. Learning to Read Contextually

Take 5 minutes to review:

Genre (law, narrative, poetry, epistle, gospel)
Historical setting (who, when, where)
Original audience and purpose

Why does each matter when we interpret a verse?

3. Verse Matching Activity (15 minutes)

Distribute slips of paper with these ten verses on half and their original contexts on the other half. In pairs, match each verse to its context, then return to share:

Philippians 4:13
Jeremiah 29:11
2 Chronicles 7:14
Matthew 5:29
1 Timothy 2:12
Leviticus 18:22
Psalm 137:9
John 14:6
Exodus 21:20–21
Luke 14:26

Then discuss: Which match surprised you most, and why?

4. Deep Dive Discussions (30 minutes)

Break into three small groups, each assigned a set of 3–4 verses. For each verse, answer:

What is the literary genre and setting?
What misunderstanding arises when we quote it alone?
How does knowing the context change its application today?

Group A

Philippians 4:13
Jeremiah 29:11
2 Chronicles 7:14

Group B

Matthew 5:29
Luke 14:26
Psalm 137:9

Group C

1 Timothy 2:12
Leviticus 18:22
Exodus 21:20–21
John 14:6

After 20 minutes, reconvene and let each group share one key insight.

5. Whole-Group Reflection (10 minutes)

Discuss together:

How can we avoid proof-texting when sharing Scripture?
What tools or questions will you use to stay faithful to context?

6. Application and Closing Prayer

Personal Challenge
- This week, pick one verse you often quote and study its original context before using it.
Prayer Requests and Closing
- Pray for grace to handle Scripture responsibly and for opportunities to guide others in contextual reading.

Key Disputed Bible Verses and Their Context

I Have seen many of these verses pulled from context to explain the beliefs and actions of some people. I wanted to take a moment to give a basic explanation, but also hope that it will encourage any interested into deeper study of His word and commands for us to live a Godly Life!

1. Philippians 4:13

Original context: Paul writes to the Philippians about learning to be content in both abundance and need, emphasizing reliance on Christ’s strength rather than self-reliance.

Nature of dispute: Modern readers often lift this verse as a formula for personal achievement and success, overlooking its teaching on endurance in hardship.

2. Jeremiah 29:11

Original context: Jeremiah conveys God’s word to the exiled Israelites in Babylon, promising future restoration and hope for the nation, not for individual career or personal plans.

Nature of dispute: Frequently quoted as a private promise of wealth or career success, detached from its communal and prophetic setting.

3. 2 Chronicles 7:14

Original context: In response to Solomon’s temple dedication, God speaks of Israel’s need to humble itself, pray, and purify the sanctuary to receive rain.

Nature of dispute: Invoked by political and revival movements as a guarantee of national healing, without its original focus on temple worship and covenant faithfulness.

4. Matthew 5:29

Original context: Jesus employs hyperbole in the Sermon on the Mount to stress the radical call to avoid sin and protect spiritual integrity.

Nature of dispute: Misread as a literal injunction for self-harm rather than a metaphor urging decisive action against sources of sin.

5. 1 Timothy 2:12

Original context: Paul addresses specific disruptions in the Ephesian church, restricting certain women from teaching roles in that local context.

Nature of dispute: Presented as a universal prohibition on women’s leadership, without accounting for cultural and situational factors in Ephesus.

6. Leviticus 18:22

Original context: Part of the Holiness Code, this law regulates Israel’s moral and cultic purity, set alongside various sexual prohibitions.

Nature of dispute: Central to modern debates on homosexuality, often abstracted from its broader covenantal framework and ancient Near Eastern parallels.

7. Psalm 137:9

Original context: An acrostic lament by exiles mourning Judah’s destruction, expressing an imprecatory wish for vindication against Babylon.

Nature of dispute: Cited in isolation as condoning violence, without recognizing its poetic genre and the raw grief it conveys.

8. John 14:6

Original context: Jesus speaks during the Last Supper to his disciples, assuring them of his unique role as mediator to the Father.

Nature of dispute: Framed as an absolute barrier to interfaith dialogue, rather than a claim rooted in the early Christian community’s understanding of Jesus’ identity.

9. Exodus 21:20–21

Original context: Regulations governing Israelite household slaves, setting fines and penalties for mistreatment rather than endorsing abuse.

Nature of dispute: Critiqued as biblical approval of slavery and violence, ignoring its function as a legal limit within an ancient Near Eastern society.

10. Luke 14:26

Original context: Jesus uses stark language to illustrate the cost of discipleship, calling followers to prioritize loyalty to him above familial ties.

Nature of dispute: Misinterpreted as a command to foster hatred toward family members, rather than a metaphor for ultimate allegiance.

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