Series GOD’S MISSION, MY MISSION with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 7: Mission to My Neighbor |

Memory Text: 1: Luke 10:27 – He answered, ‘ “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind”; and, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” |

Content:
7.1 The Question of  Questions
The scribe posed to Jesus the central question of eternal life, even though he initially came to test Jesus. Nevertheless, Jesus recognized the significance of this question and used the opportunity to explore the hearts of the scribe and the audience. The question of eternal life is at the core of our existence and holds paramount importance, irrespective of religious rituals or practices. In 1 Corinthians 15:30-32, Paul emphasizes the importance of eternal life, pointing to the alternative, eternal death. Jesus always sought opportunities for mission, even when the motives of his conversation partners were doubtful.

7.2 Jesus’ Method and Response
The encounter between Jesus and the scribe illustrates that God knows the desires and yearnings of our hearts better than we do. In a similar vein, when others inquire about our faith, we should serve them to the best of our abilities, regardless of their motives, as their needs and desires may be genuine. The mentioned Bible verses, such as Matthew 26:56, Acts 17:11, 1 Corinthians 15:3, and 2 Timothy 3:16, teach us that the Word of God is the source of truth and that we should read and study it ourselves to find answers. God has given us His Word, where we can find all the necessary teachings for our lives and the attainment of eternal life.

7.3 To Inherit Eternal Life
The scribe answered his own question by stating that one should love the Lord, their God, with all their heart and treat their neighbor as themselves. Jesus affirmed this response and urged him to put it into practice to attain eternal life. This underscores that it is not enough to merely know the correct answers in faith; one must also put them into action. James 2:17-22 similarly emphasizes that faith without deeds is of little value and admonishes us to express our love for God and others through concrete actions, aiding the needy rather than offering lip service. Christianity is not solely a collection of beliefs but a way of life expressed through love and deeds.

7.4 Loving Others as We Love Ourselves
Jesus teaches us to love others as we love ourselves and stresses that our daily life is based on these two commandments. Galatians 5:14, Micah 6:6-8, and 1 John 4:20-21 reinforce this teaching by revealing that love for God is demonstrated through practical acts of kindness and interactions with other people. Paul explains that love for God becomes visible through the deeds that testify to our faith. This highlights the significance of love as a central principle in the Christian life, as Paul passionately underscores in 1 Corinthians 13.

7.5 The Good Samaritan Story Today
The parable of the Good Samaritan, told by Jesus, emphasizes that it is not sufficient to know the right answers; one must also put their beliefs into action. Jesus intended to show that our neighbor is not defined by origin, skin color, or social status but by anyone in need of our assistance. This story serves as a reminder to be attentive to the needs of people in our vicinity and actively help them, regardless of their faith or background. It encourages us to be kind and merciful, much like the Good Samaritan in the parable, and translate our faith into practical acts of neighborly love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/gods-mission-my-mission-lesson-7-mission-to-my-neighbor-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series GOD’S MISSION, MY MISSION with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 6: Motivation and Preparation for Mission |

Memory Text: 1: Luke 24:44 – These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me. |

Content:
6.1 To Share the Good News
The women experienced the resurrection of Jesus and were full of joy and enthusiasm. Despite initial skepticism from some disciples, they were not discouraged and hurried back to share the good news. Their motivation to spread the redemption through Jesus was based on their personal experience with God, recognizing the immeasurable value of this message.

6.2 A Prophetic Foundation
The encounter of the apostles with the resurrected Jesus in Luke 24:36–49 was of great significance as it dispelled their initial doubts and fears, giving them the certainty that He indeed lives. This was crucial in strengthening their faith and motivation for the mission. Jesus also showed them the prophetic foundation of His work and ministry to ensure that their faith rested on the Word of God and that they understood the true meaning of His resurrection. This underscores the need to build our understanding of the gospel and our experiences with Jesus on the solid foundation of the Word of God to be prepared and motivated for the mission.

6.3 Waiting and Mission
The disciples waited in unity and prayer, following Jesus’ instructions, for the fulfillment of His promise, the Holy Spirit. During this waiting period, they prepared for their mission by organizing themselves and selecting a replacement for Judas. This illustrates that waiting for God’s work does not have to be idle but can result in meaningful mission preparation. This attitude of collective prayer and practical preparation should also inspire us as we wait for God’s work in our lives.

6.4 “Whom you crucified”
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost was a pivotal moment when the disciples were empowered to speak in various languages to fulfill God’s mission for the lost. Even those who crucified Christ could receive forgiveness, emphasizing the power of the gospel. This reminds us that our mission as followers of Jesus is to proclaim the saving message in a sinful world without judgment but by bearing witness to the grace of Jesus.

6.5 A Picture of the Early Church
Acts 2:41-47 presents an impressive image of the early church, where newly baptized believers were not mere members but equal parts of the community. Discipleship was a central aspect, and the apostles taught not only through words but also through their daily lives. Guidance on how to live one’s faith in daily life was provided not just through teaching but also through the shared experiences and the example set by existing believers, highlighting the importance of practical living in faith.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/gods-mission-my-mission-lesson-6-motivation-and-preparation-for-mission-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWMcGeAPw18?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-GB&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=640&h=360]

Series GOD’S MISSION, MY MISSION with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 5: Excuses to Avoid Mission |

Memory Text: 1: Isaiah 6:8 – Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I! Send me’. |

Content:
5.1 Our Excuses: Fear
Jonah’s decision not to go to Nineveh was likely influenced by his fear of the cruel Assyrians and their city, Nineveh. The city was wealthy but also known for its wickedness and violence. The fear of this dangerous environment could have influenced Jonah’s decision to avoid following God’s instructions. This reminds us how often we are hindered by fears instead of trusting in God.

5.2 Our Excuses: False Views
Jonah’s flight and self-blame during the storm indicate that he was likely influenced by false beliefs. Back then, it was believed that the sea was the realm of demons and that sacrifices were necessary to appease them. However, through his adventures, Jonah learned that God is sovereign everywhere, and his perspective changed when he confessed his guilt and was saved. Similar to Jonah, we can also have misunderstandings about God’s expectations, such as the belief that success depends on us. However, our task is to collaborate with God and support His work, not to accomplish it alone.

5.3 Our Excuses: Inconvenience
Jonah’s experience in the belly of the fish demonstrated God’s love and mercy, but his old ways of thinking didn’t change immediately. Despite his reluctance, he preached in Nineveh, and the people repented. This reminds us that God’s mission is continued by those willing to make sacrifices and overcome prejudices. Mission requires humility, emotional energy, and financial sacrifices, but God’s work is powerful, even through imperfect messengers like Jonah.

5.4 Our Excuses: Uncomfortable Confrontations
Jonah had such deep hatred for Nineveh that he preferred death over allowing his worldview to be shaken by God’s grace. He wanted Nineveh to be destroyed, and when it didn’t happen, his worldview was shattered. God confronted Jonah with an experience that helped him recognize his distorted perspective and realign his priorities. This reminds us how easily we avoid unpleasant confrontations and question our preconceived notions about the significance of grace and mercy.

5.5 Here I Am, Send Me
Jonah’s story shows that our role is to be willing messengers of God, and ultimately, it is God who convicts and converts people’s hearts. It is a call to respond to God’s call, obey Him, and deliver His message of hope to those who desperately need it. Isaiah’s response to God’s call should inspire us to do the same and reach out to our fellow human beings with love and hope. Formularbeginn

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/gods-mission-my-mission-lesson-5-excuses-to-avoid-mission-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6RwrRgGhuk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-GB&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=640&h=360]

Series GOD’S MISSION, MY MISSION with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 4: Sharing God’s Mission  |

Memory Text: 1: John 13,34.35 – A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.  |

Content:  |
4.1 The Gift of Hospitality
Abraham’s hospitality, offered to travelers despite the scorching heat, illustrates his exceptional compassion and understanding of his mission to convey the presence of the Lord in a world dominated by paganism and idolatry. His proactive approach, initiating the encounter even before the strangers arrived, underscores his genuine concern for their well-being. Abraham’s readiness to provide rest, foot washing, and food highlights the essence of hospitality, while his unwavering dedication to his divine mission serves as an inspiring example of bringing blessings to others and fulfilling God’s call in our lives.

4.2 Abraham’s Love for Everyone
Abraham’s love for all people, regardless of their origin or affiliation, shines in Genesis 18. His compassion for the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah, despite their sins and divergent lifestyles, demonstrates the universal nature of his love. This story reminds us that love and hope for repentance are essential values in our interactions with others, in harmony with Abraham’s example.

4.3 Abraham’s Spirit of Prayer
Abraham’s intercessory prayer for the people of Sodom and Gomorrah reveals the power and significance of prayer. His sincere love for the residents of these cities compelled him to pray for them, and his prayer was characterized by humility and persistence. This story teaches us that prayer is an integral part of our mission work, as it can touch people’s hearts and allow the Holy Spirit to work.

4.4 Abraham’s Mission
Abraham’s spirit of hospitality, love, and intercession had far-reaching consequences. Although Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed, Lot and his two daughters were saved, in part due to Abraham’s prayer and God’s grace. This story reminds us that not everyone will be saved, but our mission is to invite as many as possible to choose Jesus while respecting the free will of each individual.

4.5 Submission to God’s Will
Abraham exhibited an outstanding quality by unconditionally submitting to God’s will. Despite uncertainty and unclear paths before him, he obeyed God’s call, left his land, followed divine guidance, and even accepted difficult decisions such as the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. His obedience and submission to God’s will serve as an inspiring example for us to trust God in all circumstances and unreservedly submit to His guidance.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/gods-mission-my-mission-lesson-4-sharing-gods-mission-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaIbe-WoJLU?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-GB&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=640&h=360]

Series GOD’S MISSION, MY MISSION with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 3: God’s Call to Mission  |

Memory Text: 1: Acts 1:8 – But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.  |

Content:  |
3.1 Moving Beyond Our Comfort Zone
The story of the Tower of Babel reminds us how the desire to stay in our comfort zone and surround ourselves only with like-minded individuals can lead to selfish and harmful intentions. The people building the tower had ambitious plans to make a name for themselves, but their lack of trust in God’s promise and their selfish motives ultimately led to their failure. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of examining our intentions and stepping out of our comfort zone to trust in God’s plans and promises.

3.2 Becoming a Blessing to the Whole World
The story of Abraham (formerly Abram) reminds us that God’s instructions often serve as a call to mission. When God called Abraham to leave his land and move to a new land, it was part of God’s plan to use Abraham as a means to fulfill His divine intentions. Abraham obeyed in faith, without knowing exactly how everything would unfold. This willingness to follow God’s call underscores the importance of trusting our faith and being ready to step out of our comfort zone for God’s mission in our lives.

3.3 Abraham’s Call
The story of Abraham’s calling reminds us that the path of faith is not always easy and can be fraught with challenges. Although Abraham obeyed God and moved to the land shown to him, he encountered difficulties and famine. His lack of trust even led to a dishonest act in Egypt. However, Abraham’s story shows that God is patient and remains by our side despite our mistakes and weaknesses when we hold onto faith in Him. This narrative encourages us to maintain our faith amidst difficulties and temptations, as God can still fulfill His plan through us.

3.4 The Early Church and Comfort Zones
The early church was forcefully scattered beyond its comfort zone due to persecution, primarily instigated by Saul. This compelled believers to spread the message of the Gospel to other regions, aligning with Jesus’ original promise in Acts 1:8. Initially, their proclamation was limited to Jewish territories and the Jewish population in other cities. The church had limited perceptions of its mission.

3.5 Starting From Where You Are
The principle Jesus highlights in Acts 1:8 emphasizes the importance of beginning our witness where we are physically located. This means being witnesses in our immediate surroundings, whether it be within our family, community, neighborhood, or workplace. It reminds us that mission extends not only to distant places but also involves crossing cultural boundaries to spread Jesus’ message. These verses encourage us to start in our vicinity and be prepared to go to other areas and reach various social and ethnic groups to share the love and gospel of Jesus.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/gods-mission-my-mission-lesson-3-gods-call-to-mission-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/