This Sunday, I was talking with a friend from church. His wife is struggling with cancer. The big “C” has been dominating everything at their house from doctor’s appointments to household chores. Nothing is normal. To be honest, I hardly know what to say to him. In some ways, he would find it easier to struggle with the disease himself than to watch his wife wrestling with it. His situation is painful in a way that defies my ability to describe.
But it seemed to be meaningful to him that I am praying for them, that I care about them, and that I am willing to stand and listen as he tries to put the situation into words.
You won’t have to teach the Bible very long before you will run into the real life pain of your group members. Some will struggle with a failing marriage, a wayward child, or the loss of a job. Others, with the loss of a parent or a difficult illness. But people in your group will face difficult times. Like me, you may wonder what to say. Here are my suggestions:
Your presence matters more than what you say. Somehow, when we enter into the lives of people we get to teach, we represent Christ to them. The ministry of our presence in their lives is a reminder of the presence of Christ, and it is hugely important. Be present when you can. Listen. Express love. Offer prayer.
Avoid trite “theological” responses to their situation. Statements like, “She’s in a better place now,” or “You’ll find a better job,” may have some truth to them, they are hardly helpful when someone is struggling with their own pain. Resist the tendency to “devotionalize” the pain of your members.
Cry with them. This is what Jesus seems to do when he arrives at the home of Mary and Martha after Lazarus has died (John 11). Jesus knew he was going to raise Lazarus from the dead, but he still wept with the mourners.
Remind them of God’s presence and love. Prayers like, “God, I know that you feel our pain. Please allow us to feel your presence as we struggle in this situation” may remind people of how much God cares. The most important answer to the problem of human suffering is a person. God knows; he cares; he is near.
Read More
Theology the Norwegian Way: The Curious Case of Gisle Johnson
Gisle Johnson was a prolific scholar who made significant contributions to Norwegian theology. However, with barely any of his works translated into English, few today know about this maverick scholar. Dr. Robb Torseth hopes to change that.
Excerpt – John Piper, Calvinism, and Missions: A Way Forward
Read this section of Dr. Hopkins’ new book on the theology of John Piper.
Listen
Revelation Chapters 19-20
Dr. Stewart and Tyler discuss the millennial debate. They cover different interpretations of the millennium, the strengths and weaknesses of each. They also describe the return of Christ and the final battle.
Revelation Chapters 17-18
Dr. Stewart and Tyler discuss Revelation 17 and 18, focusing on the symbolic representation of Babylon. They explore the chiasm structure, highlighting the introduction and judgment of key adversaries like the dragon, the beast, and Babylon.
Watch
Jonathan Edwards and the Asbury Revival
Chris Chun and Chris Woznicki discuss the signs of true revival, signs of the work of the Holy Spirit, and why it is important to critically assess the characteristics of revival in a spirit of charity.
Jonathan Edwards and the Baptists | Douglas Sweeney, Nathan Finn and Chris Chun
Dr. Douglas Sweeney and Dr. Nathan Finn joined Dr. Chris Chun for a panel discussion on Jonathan Edwards, recorded live at the SBC Annual Meeting in Anaheim.