"The Bible may be described as a 4 part symphony moving from creation to the fall, then to
redemption and finally re-creation (Revelations). The Book of Genesis narrates the first two
movements and begins the third". (Longman)
Life Lessons from Abraham and Other Giants of Genesis:
God shifts His focus from the scattered nations to one man, Abram. Abram's descendents will
become His "chosen people" the 12 tribes of Israel. Through these chosen people God will:
1) reveal Himself to the world as the one true God
2) provide Jesus, the Christ, Savior of the world!
Holy Week
Our study examined how Jesus spent and what He taught on each day of this important week.
We watched as He presided over the Passover Supper, stood trial, was condemned to death
then crucified
Yet we celebrated with Him as He is raised again on Resurrection Sunday! Even after His
resurrection, He continued to provide important teachings to His disciples. Yet this is not the end
of the story! It is only then, that the promised Holy Spirit comes and the Church begins!
It's Easy to Sign Up For A Study!
One - Provide Email Information
The JAIACM Newsletter will announce the upcoming study, (approx. 4 per year). Sign up during the subscription period. After subscribing you will receive an Email confirming your participation. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking a link included in each weeks email. We will not sell, rent or share our subscriber list.
Two - Each Friday you will receive a study.
On Monday - Thursday, you will also receive one daily question. Thisprompts participants to consider the study throughout the week. However, if after participating in the Bible Study you can change your subscription to receive the weekly study.
Each study also includes a link to an optional discussion group at yahoo.com.
Be notified about JAIACM articles, resource recommendations and future Bible studies. Enter your email below and click the subscribe button once.
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JAIACM Bible Studies are interactive to support the local Church or serve as fellowship for those without an affirming Church.
The Studies recognize the context of scripture to ensure correct interpretation and application of each passage.
This approach provides a solid foundation for Christian maturity and ministry.
The Studies are based on topics, books or characters of the Bible.
JAIACM does not discriminate based on sexual orientation, race, age, gender, marital status, etc.
Why Study the Bible?
Before ascending to heaven Jesus gave us the "Great Commission":
"... go and make disciples of all nations
baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. ..."
(Matthew 28:18-20)
How do we make disciples? The same way Jesus did, by reflecting His Father's Word in both our speech and action. To do this we must first learn the Word ourselves!
What keeps Christians from living the full life Jesus died to give them?
Jesus said He came that He came that we "may have life , and have life to the full". (John 10:10) Yet, today there seems to be many Christians; however, many remain bound by the hindrances and cares of this world. They don't know the truths given in His Word!
Jesus Himself said:
"If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:31-32
This is the other benefit to participating in a regular Bible Study. Become a disciple so that you can reach others and so that you can be free, indeed!
JAIACM Bible Studies
How to Study the Bible- The "Rest" Method
Christians often attempt to learn God's Word; however, may soon become discouraged because they do not know where to begin or feel as though they fully understand what they are reading. It is not that Bible Study is difficult.
There are a few simple tools to make our Bible study more effective. The pneumonic for these tools is R-E-S-T:
R egular Bible Study:
Often Bible Studies can be haphazard. We may study for one week and then not pick up the Bible for two weeks. Determine a time and place where you can study the Bible for at least 1/2 hour 3-5 times a week.
We may think we don't have time for one more thing. However, much of our time is spent on non-essential or less meaningful pursuits. In contrast, the time you invest in Bible Study will pay dividends for a life time: Pick a time which works for you: in the morning is a great way to start your day; in the middle of the day as a refreshing break; or before bed as a way to unwind.
Set aside time and whenever it is make a commitment and be consistent.
E nlightenment:
In Isaiah 55:9 God tells Word tells us:
"As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways and
my thoughts than your thoughts."
God's ways are much different than our preconceived attitudes. To improve your understanding of scripture:
Enlightenment by prayer: If we seek the Spirit, the Holy Spirit will be faithful give us revelationary knowledge into the truth of scripture. The Lord promised:
"But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes,
he will guide you into all truth." (John 16:12)
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find;
knock and the door will be opened to you." (Matthew 7:7)
Enlightenment by establishing context: First, carefully read the scripture to understand the literal meaning. Next, refer to additional resources which provide information from Theologians, Historians and Anthropologists which can contribute to our understanding of the historical, cultural and situational context.
Biblically based resources (recommendations are given below):
Study Bible (NIV Study Bible - $25)
Commentaries (Matthew Henry concise single volume - $15)
Dictionary of persons, places and doctrines (Tyndale Bible Dictionary - $25)
Dictionary of important Biblical words (Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary - $10)
Topical Bible (Nave's Topical Bible - $13)
S ystematically Read the Bible:
As a new Believer we may randomly open the Word and find the Lord speak directly to our need from that scripture. However, as we mature in the Lord the depth and breath of our understanding will be enhanced if we apply a more systematic approach to our studies. Base your study on an individual book of the Bible, a topic, or a character.
T est for Application - Ask yourself:
Evaluate - Is an application of the scripture for the world today.
Apply - Is there an application for your life:
Is there promise?
Is there an example?
Is there guidance?
Is there encouragement?
Following the REST method of Bible study can greatly increase the fruitfulness of our studies and provide the foundation we need to fulfill the Lord's plan for our lives!
Enlightenment by prayer: If we seek the Spirit, the Holy Spirit will be faithful give us revelationary knowledge into the truth of scripture. The Lord promised: 
