number 1-21 and take the test

Do we know the Bible?  Do I know the Bible?  I am on a journey with about a dozen students to learn the book of John.  The pre test for John is to number 1 - 21, a number for each chapter.  Can I put down something for each chapter?  


Sometimes when people teach the Bible, they read a verse or so and then say all the other stuff they came up with.  What if we just teach the Bible.  Mostly what is taught is right there in print.  


May God forgive us when we try to think of things to say that will make people feel good about themselves, or be impressed with the speaker.  The Bible impresses us with God.  I just need to get out of the way and point the listener to the Word on the page.  I am trying.  


I really enjoyed our study of John 1 this past Wednesday. I had to check on the stories of Jacob. If you missed this- We notice that Jesus is the Son of man and the Stairway to Heaven (John 1:51). Think about that next time you hear the song? There are 18 names for Jesus in this chapter. How do you describe Jesus? John 1 does that. 


It is so much fun to watch students talking about the Bible.  
Jacob had a stairway and he wrestled with God. I had to go back to Genesis to get this straight in my mind. I think Ellie said it was a dream where Jacob used a rock for a pillow. That is correct. Good job Ellie!  See Genesis 28:10-22. 

The "wrestle with God", is a different story in Genesis 32:22-32.


I like it when students make me go back and find the right answers.  I am glad I said I do not know.  My guess would have been wrong.  




Still thinking on this.  

I can do anything, like endure tough times.

     I have been looking at Philippians 4:13 lately.  That is Brandon's favorite verse and song, I think.  What a great verse.  We meet for Bible study before school on Friday's.
     I have notice similar verses in Jeremiah.  33:3 says Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.  
     33:1 says that Jeremiah is still confined in the courtyard of the guard.  He was confined there 44 verses earlier.  
Jerusalem is under attach by Nebuchadnezzar and is being burned down.  
     Jeremiah 29:11 says For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.  
     In Jeremiah 38, some officials put Jeremiah in a well where he sank down into the mud.  
     I want to see what God sees.  How did Paul say "I can do all things," while he was in chains for sharing the truth about Christ.  
     I know I can do what God asks me to do today.  I know we have it so much easier today.  I hope that I am not distracted by making myself more comfortable.  There is nothing better than moving in harmony with my creator.  God help me to see how to do that today.