Bgroup Lesson Nov 03
Big Idea: In the book of Jeremiah chapter 29 we read the account of the children of Israel living in exile in Babylon. The word of the Lord came to the prophet Jeremiah telling the people to build homes, plant gardens, get married, and have children. They would be in the land of Babylon for 70 years. As believers we understand that we are citizens of heaven and this world is not our home but how are we to live and flourish in the place we are now? We can easily get caught up in the drama all around us and begin to worry and have anxiety about the future or we can just check out and have the mindset that “I’ll just disconnect and wait for Jesus”. In this lesson we will take a look at the proper mentality of a citizen of heaven who is currently living in America.
Key Scripture:
Jeremiah 29:4-7 (NLT) “This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says to all the captives he has exiled to Babylon from Jerusalem: Build homes, and plan to stay. Plant gardens, and eat the food they produce. Marry and have children. Then find spouses for them so that you may have many grandchildren. Multiply! Do not dwindle away! And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.”
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul encouraged the believers to live as citizens of heaven and to conduct themselves worthy of the Good News about Christ. Living as a citizen of heaven means maintaining a heavenly culture. It also means remembering your identity in Christ and that you are His representative here on earth. Because we are citizens along with other believers we refuse to let anything come between us and our brothers and sisters in Christ. We also refuse to fear because we know that Christ is with us.
Discussion Question: What is a good way to maintain your identity in Christ? What are some distractions that would try to pull you away?
The Lord instructed the prophet Jeremiah to tell the people to “build houses, plant gardens, marry, have children, and multiply.” Each of these directives carries a philosophy that we should have.
Discussion Question: In what ways can we let our voice be heard in the social arena? What would be your response to the statement, “Leave your religion at the door”?
The scriptures direct believers to pray for all people, pray for kings and those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-4). Our voice should not be limited to a vote we cast on a ballot. We should lift our voice daily in prayer for those who lead our city, state, and nation. We should also remember that Christ is supreme. He is king of all kings and Lord of all Lords (Philippians 2:9-11)! The correct spirit for a believer and citizen of heaven is to pray for the land we live in. Because as Jeremiah told the children of Israel, “Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.”
Discussion Question: What are some good points to mention as we pray for our nation and its leaders? Take a few minutes and pray as a group for the city, state, and nation.