The Gospel Project, featured this week, now joins the weekly rotation of LifeWay curriculum in this Bible study series.
Bible Passages: 2 Kings 22:3-20; Hebrews 4:12-13
Discussion Questions:
-- How does one become "an authority" on a certain subject or topic?
-- How does a parent exercise authority over a child?
-- What is the difference between authority that is earned and authority inherent to a position?
Food for Thought:
Do you have a problem with authority? Martin Luther certainly did. In April 1521, a Roman Catholic council summoned Luther to recant his belief that Scripture was his supreme authority. Luther replied: "Unless I am convicted by Scripture and plain reason -- I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other -- my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. God help me. Amen."
Luther knew that uttering such words could cost his life. Only 106 years prior, John Huss took a similar stand against the Roman church and was burned alive at the stake. But for Luther, the authority of God's Word was worth dying for. Even more so, it was worth living for!
As Christians, we believe that the Bible alone is the supreme authority for a Christian. Why? Because Scripture comes from the very mouth of God, and He is the supreme Author-ity. While tradition teaches us many things about what God has done in history, it does not deserve equal status with Scripture. Nothing does.
We might not have the opportunity to testify before a council like Martin Luther, but through our thoughts, words and actions, each one of us can show the world that we submit to the authority of God as revealed in Holy Scripture. As we examine King Josiah's response to the authority of Scripture this week (2 Kings 22:3-20), ask God to reveal the areas of your heart that resist submission to God's Word.
The Gospel Project
The Gospel Project is a Christ-centered curriculum that examines the grand narrative of Scripture and how the Gospel transforms the lives of those it touches. Through a three-year study plan, participants are immersed in the Gospel through stories, theological concepts and calls to missions from Genesis to Revelation. Separate study plans for children and students/adults ensure the proper focus and depth. The Gospel Project is designed to unify an entire church under a single Christ-centered curriculum. More information, free samples and The Gospel Project blog can be found at www.gospelproject.com.
Other ongoing Bible study options for all ages offered by LifeWay can be found at www.LifeWay.com/SundaySchool.
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