Brandon Martel

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All Nations Church

Life Group Study

Doubt

Week of March 27^th,  2022

Study by Wayne Arcand

This week’s message focuses on the subject of doubt. We live in a world full of doubt as well as a world that requires us to exercise faith every day. Thomas would not believe Jesus had risen from the dead unless he saw and touched Jesus. There is no faith required where we can confirm the existence or truth of something with our own senses. In faith we act, even when we have doubts. We doubt because we don’t see, or understand what is happening. In faith, we believe God is working in a situation according to his plan and timing, not ours. In faith, we believe that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)

1. How would you define “doubt”?
   1. When you doubt, does doubt lead to action or inaction? Give an example.
   2. Can doubt have a positive or negative impact on your life? Explain.
   3. Can faith and doubt co-exist in a believers life? Why or why not?
      1. What can we do when faced with doubt?

John 20:24-29 (NIV) Jesus Appears to Thomas ²⁴ Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. ²⁵ So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”

²⁶ A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” ²⁷ Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”

²⁸ Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”

²⁹ Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

2. In John 20:24-29 we read the story of Thomas. He wasn’t too different from most of us when faced with something he didn’t understand. He doubted the story until he could verify what he was told. There was no faith required.
   1. Why do you think Thomas doubted what he was told?
   2. What do you think the group (disciples) dynamics would have been like with everyone except Thomas excited about having seen Jesus?
   3. Verses 26 to 29 are a great example of the graciousness of our God:
      1. What did Jesus do for Thomas?
      2. Why is verse 28 important?
   4. Read verse 29 and then read 2 Corinthians 5:7.
      1. How do these verses support one another?
      2. What does it mean to you to ‘live by faith’?

James 1: ² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. ⁵ If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. ⁶ But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. ⁷ That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. ⁸ Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.

3. What word or phrase would suggest the certainty of trials in our life?
   1. What is the purpose of the trials we experience?
   2. Discuss the character of a person who is ‘mature and complete’.

4. James 1:5 and 6:
   1. What is the difference between wisdom and knowledge?
   2. What wisdom do you think you might pray for?
   3. What does doubt cause us to do?

5. Explain what is meant by James 1:7 and 8 in the context of this passage?

Luke 1(NIV): ¹¹ Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. ¹² When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. ¹³ But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. 

¹⁸ Zechariah asked the angel, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.”

¹⁹ The angel said to him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. ²⁰ And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their appointed time.”

6. The above verses from Luke 1, are the story of prayer, an answer to prayer, doubt and a consequence of doubt.
   1. What was the prayer?
      1. What was the answer to prayer?
      2. What was the source of doubt?

• What was the consequence to Zechariah?

1. How did this impact the fulfillment of the promise?
2. What is the lesson for us in these verses?

For Reflection:

In your quiet time this week, consider areas in your life where you may be experiencing doubt. As you consider today’s study, what have you learned that could have a positive impact on your life? If you are able to, listen to the hymn, “Take it to the Lord in Prayer”, and just quietly worship the Lord and allow Him to speak to your heart.

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Life Group Study

True Fasting

Week of March 20^th,  2022

Study by Wayne Arcand

When we talk about fasting, we often think in terms of abstaining from food or a favourite activity for a period of time. Isaiah 58 is the account of God speaking through the prophet Isaiah to convict and instruct his people. In this study we will learn what God considers true fasting and how we can apply these principles to our life.

Isaiah 58 (NIV)

True Fasting

58 “Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to my people their rebellion and to the descendants of Jacob their sins.
² For day after day they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways, as if they were a nation that does what is right and has not forsaken the commands of its God. They ask me for just decisions and seem eager for God to come near them.
³ ‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves,
and you have not noticed?’ “Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please  and exploit all your workers.
⁴ Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today  and expect your voice to be heard on high.

⁵ Is this the kind of fast I have chosen,  only a day for people to humble themselves?
Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed  and for lying in sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord?

⁶ “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?
⁷ Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
⁸ Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness^[a] will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
⁹ Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.

“If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk,
¹⁰ and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed,
then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.
¹¹ The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.
¹² Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations;
you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.

¹³ “If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord’s holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words,
¹⁴ then you will find your joy in the Lord, and I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

1. Isaiah 58:1-5:
   1. What is the overall tone of these verses?
   2. In verse 1, how is Isaiah to confront God’s people?
      1. What is he to confront them about?
   3. In verse 2, what does the phrase “they seem eager” tell us about the people.
      1. What does the phrase, “as if they were a nation that does what is right…” tell us about the nation?
   4. In the first half of verse 3, the people are asking a question.
      1. What is the question?
         1. What are they not experiencing?
      2. What is God’s response?

• Consider two phrases is this verse, “why have we humbled ourselves”, and “you do as you please”.
  1. What do these phrases tell us about the way the people were living?

1. What is the admonition from verse 4?
2. What does verse 5 tell us about the habits and attitude of the people the Lord is addressing?
3. In summary, why were the people fasting?
4. How well does this verse reflect the teaching of James 4:1-3?

2. Isaiah 58:6-14:
   1. Consider the opening words of verses 6 and 7, “is not this” and “is it not”. What do these phrases tell us about what follows in those verses?
   2. This passage is filled with a number of conditional statements. These statements have an outcome based on an action.
      1. Identify the conditional statements identifying the action and outcome.
      2. Identify those which have a positive outcome.

• Identify those which have a negative outcome.

3. Acts 13: ²While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” ³ So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
   1. What activity accompanied fasting in these verses?
   2. What was taking place in their spiritual life? Why?
      1. How would this bring about the result God desires for us in Romans 12:2?

4. What have you learned in this study that can have an impact on your life?

For Reflection:

Are you setting aside time to spend with the Lord each day? Our lives are filled with activity. We often feel we are wasting time or not being productive if we are not engaged in doing something at all times. In Psalm 46:10, the LORD says, “Be still and know that I am God”. Would you make a commitment to set aside a period of time to fast, worship, pray and be still that you might experience a new level of closeness with the Lord our God? True transformation to become all that we are called to be can only happen through a close personal relationship with God our Saviour.

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Life Group Study

Little Things with Great Love

Week of March 13^th,  2022

Study by Wayne Arcand

Many of us tend to be creatures of habit. We develop a routine we are comfortable with and that becomes the pattern for our life. Perhaps we ‘go with the flow’ rather than taking a more disciplined approach to life. Lent is the time for us to shake things up a bit, to examine our life-style, commitments and our relationship to the Lord. The title of this week’s message reminded me that our lives are built on a lot of little things that influence the big things we do in life. We will examine some scripture from the point of view of how a little thing can influence our spiritual growth.

• Proverbs 18:21(NIV) The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
  1. What does ‘the power of life and death’ mean to you?
  2. What is the fruit of each?

• Compare Proverbs 18:21 to Proverbs 12:18. ¹⁸ The words of the reckless pierce like swords,
  but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
  1. How is the message from these two verses similar?

• Words carelessly spoken can permanently harm relationships, reputations, and cause great division. Once spoken, they can not be retracted or removed from the memory of the hearer. Consider James 3: ⁵ Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. ⁶ The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
  1. What is the analogy in these verses?
  2. How do you think words not spoken in love “corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire”?

• James gives us direction when faced with a situation where we feel it necessary to make a response. James 1:¹⁹ My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,²⁰ because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.
  1. In the simplest terms, what is this verse telling us to do?
  2. What gets in the way of us following James direction to the believers?
  3. What can we do to help us not ‘react’ to a situation?

• In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, in chapter 4 he wrote: ²⁹ Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.³⁰ And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. ³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. ³² Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
  1. How is verse 32 the natural outcome of following the directions given in verse 29?
• Does what I say and how I say it really matter? What does my speech reflect about me? As we look at Matthew 12, we will find the answers to these questions. Matthew 12:³³ “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. ³⁴ You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. ³⁵ A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. ³⁶ But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. ³⁷ For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
  1. Consider verse 34b, “For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” What insight might this give us into the condition of our heart if we find ourselves speaking words that are:
     1. Loving?
     2. Encouraging?

• Critical?

1. Condemning?

1. Look at the above verses and circle all of the positive statements. What is the positive message in these statements?
2. In the same passage, underline all of the negative statements.
3. What is the promise and the warning in verses 36 and 37?

• Most if not all change takes place in our life by starting out with the little things that build on one another to make us a different person than who we once were. Consider Romans 12 ¹Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.² Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
  1. Where do these verses tell us change starts?
  2. Why is it necessary to experience the transformation of verse 2 before we can live according to verse 1?
  3. Have a discussion on the things we can do to bring about this change?

• As we wrap this study up, I would like us to once again reflect on the verse, “the mouth speaks what the heart is full of”. Considering all we have discussed in this study, discuss how a change of heart, a transformed heart, will impact our relationship to the Lord, our speech, our attitudes, our actions. Is this transformation an ongoing process? Explain.

For Reflection:

We may do many good deeds and feel good about ourselves, but are our deeds an indication of the condition of our heart? Matthew 12:34 would suggest they are not, that indeed what we say is a true reflection of what is in our heart. Let us take time this week to reflect on what we say and how we say it. Does my speech reflect the Spirit of God dwelling in me? I would encourage us to pray the prayer of Psalm 139: 23 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

We have the promise of Proverbs 8:17 I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.

Let us seek the Lord and he will reveal himself to us.

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Life Group Study

Jesus Said – Matthew 7:7-29

Week of March 6^th,  2022

Study by Wayne Arcand

This is the final study in the seven week series of “Jesus Said”. The study will have a focus on Matthew 7:7,8. These verses can not be taken in isolation but must be considered in light of the teaching of scripture. Everything we will become on earth and our heavenly reward depends on our relationship with the Father through the saving power of Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary. I would remind us of Ephesians 2: 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. We will explore some of the bible verses that teach us how we can have a rewarding relationship with the Father.

1. The first verses we will explore are John 15:5-8: ⁵“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. ⁶ If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. ⁷ If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. ⁸ This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
   1. A single word can speak volumes to us as we read a passage of scripture. Consider the word “if”:
      1. How often is it used?
      2. What does the use of that word tell us about the message that follows?
   2. These verses contain a promise and a warning.
      1. What is the promise?
      2. What is the warning?
   3. What is bearing much fruit conditional upon?
      1. What does the phrase, “if you remain in me and I in you”, mean to you?
   4. As we consider verse 7, what is receiving what we ask for conditional upon?
   5. Summarize the points discussed.

2. 1 John 5: ¹³ I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. ¹⁴ This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. ¹⁵ And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.
   1. Who is this written to?
      1. Why is this important as we consider the topic of answered prayer?
   2. What is an important principle of prayer in these verses?
   3. What is the confidence we have?
   4. In summary, what is a condition of answered prayer outlined in these verses?

We have looked at two important principles when we ask the Lord for something. Summarize these so they are fresh in your mind and we will go on to look at Matthew 7:7-8.

3. Matthew 7:7-8 (NIV) ⁷“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. ⁸ For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
   1. Consider the verbs, “ask”, “seek” and “knock”.
      1. These verbs, as they are used, are in the present continuous tense. What does this suggest to you?
   2. Do you see a progression as you move from asking to seeking to knocking?
      1. What kind of action does each of these verbs suggest to you?

4. Consider James 4:2b-3: You do not have because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
   1. What two principles do these verses suggest to you?

5. Matthew 6:6 (NIV) 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
   1. Who is speaking these words?
   2. Who do we pray to?

6. John 15:16, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that remains, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you”. This verse is rich in meaning. Examine the verse considering the following questions:
   1. Who is speaking?
   2. Who is he speaking to?
   3. What is our purpose?
   4. What is the expected outcome?
   5. How do I bear fruit?

7. There is a principle of prayer in question 5 and another in questions 6. What is the connection between these two principles?

8. Matthew 7:21,” Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
   1. Summarize what you have learned from the verses studied today that will help guide you in doing the will of the Father?
   2. What is the reward of those who do the will of the Father?

Personal Reflection:

Depending on the version of the Bible you are reading, you will find pray, prayer, praying, etc., mentioned 400 to 500⁺ times. Jesus set the example for us as he would draw off into a quiet place and pray to the Father in the midst of busy and stressful times. Prayer is our connection to the Father and is key to our spiritual growth.  On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate my prayer life? We are constantly challenged by the word of God to put off old ways and live the transformed life. Commit to spending time with the Lord in prayer every day. You will be amazed at what

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Life Group Study

Jesus Said – Matthew 6:19 – 34

 Generosity and Principle of Tithing

Week of February 27^th,  2022

Study by Wayne Arcand

Setting priorities is a concept we are all familiar with. We all set priorities, whether consciously or unconsciously. We prioritize how we spend our time and where we spend our money. Every time we choose to do something, we are making that activity a priority. The question is, am I setting priorities that are centred on me and what I want, or am I setting priorities based on my understanding of what God desires for my life. When we are in a right relationship with our Lord, our priorities are correctly set, and I believe the whole issue on worry in the following verses becomes a non-issue. Trust is the antithesis of worry. We cannot trust God to provide and worry about him providing at the same time.

In this study, we are encouraged to think about our motives, our priorities and where we place our trust.

Matthew 6:¹⁹ “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰ But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. ²¹ For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

²² “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy^[a] your whole body will be full of light. ²³ But if your eyes are unhealthy^[b], your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!

²⁴ “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

Do Not Worry

²⁵ “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? ²⁶ Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? ²⁷ Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

²⁸ “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. ²⁹ Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. ³⁰ If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? ³¹ So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ ³² For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. ³³ But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴ Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:22 The Greek for ‘healthy’ here implies ‘generous’.

Matthew 6:23 The Greek for ‘unhealthy’ here implies ‘stingy’.

1. In life and in financial planning, we are encouraged to define our priorities, set goals, and make a plan to achieve those goals. Matthew 6:19-21 encourages us to set priorities that are eternal in nature.
   1. What is the difference in priorities between a life style that stores up treasures on earth versus a life style that stores up treasures in heaven?
      1. Where is our priority to be?
      2. Does this suggest it is wrong to save money and plan for the future? What would a guiding principle be from these verses?

• Where does family rate in our priorities? Consider this question in light of your commitment to family vs work vs hobbies vs other commitments you may have taken on.

2. Consider Deut.8:17,18  “You may say to yourself, ‘My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.’ But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth.”
   1. Why is it important to remember the truth of this verse?
   2. The consequence of pride in one’s accomplishments can be read in Daniel 4 concerning Nebuchadnezzar  He was driven away from people and given the mind of an animal; he lived with the wild donkeys and ate grass like the ox; and his body was drenched with the dew of heaven, until he acknowledged that the Most High God is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and sets over them anyone he wishes.
      1. From this example, what could be the result of not giving God the credit for what he is doing through you?

3. As the church, we who are followers of Jesus, are called to support those whom God has called to serve him as Pastors and Evangelists. We use the talents God has given us to earn a living in ways that honour him, and out of appreciation for the Lord’s blessing in our lives we become a blessing to those God has called to preach the good news of eternal life through our Lord and Saviour. 1 Corinthians 9:13-14 Don’t you know that those who serve in the temple get their food from the temple, and that those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar? In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.
   1. How does Ephesians 4:16, “From him (Christ) the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”, support the teaching from 1 Corinthians 9?

4. In Matthew 6:24, explain what is meant by, “you cannot serve two masters”? Consider the following questions:
   1. Do I find it easier to trust God in some areas of my life than in others?
      1. In what areas is it most difficult to trust God?
      2. Do my actions line up with what I say my priorities are? Are my priorities ones that honour the Lord with my time, talent and resources?

5. Matthew 6:25-34 will be considered together. Let us explore the concept of worry versus concern.
   1. Explain the difference between being worried about something and being concerned about something.
   2. Can you find examples in scripture where God was worried?
   3. Can you find an examples of a time when God was concerned?
      1. What was the circumstance and what was God concerned about?
         1. What did he do about it?
      2. Does this suggest it is okay to be concerned about something? Why?
   4. What does worry cause us to do?
   5. What does concern cause us to do?

6. Read verse 33. The word ‘seek’ is the present imperative tense. It is a command to fulfil a continuing obligation.
   1. What does it mean to seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness?
   2. What changes in us when we seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness? Consider this in light of our priorities.

For Reflection: If I made a list of activities I am involved in and the places my money goes, would these line up with what I say my priorities in life are? Do these priorities line up with God’s priority for my life? If not, what do I have to change to live a life that honours God in all areas.

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Life Group Study

Jesus Said – Matthew 6:5-18

The Lord’s Prayer

Week of February 20^th,  2022

Study by Wayne Arcand

Prayer is an essential and integral part of a believer’s life. The quality of our prayer life may very well reflect the quality of our personal relationship with Jesus. What kind of a relationship can we have with our spouse, children or best friend if we never or seldom talk to them? What kind of a relationship can we have with our heavenly Father if we seldom or never talk to him? In this study, we will consider the nature of prayer and how the Lord’s prayer is a template given by Jesus to teach us how to pray to the Father.  My prayer is this study will help each of us to deepen our relationship and strengthen our walk with the Lord.

Matthew 6: Jesus Teaches about Prayer

⁵ “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. ⁶ But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. ⁷ And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. ⁸ Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask hi-m.

⁹ “This, then, is how you should pray:

“‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
¹⁰ your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
¹¹ Give us today our daily bread.
¹² And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
¹³ And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.’

¹⁴ For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. ¹⁵ But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

Fasting

¹⁶ “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. ¹⁷ But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, ¹⁸ so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

1. Let’s start this study with a general discussion on our understanding of prayer:
   1. What is prayer?
   2. Why do we pray?
      1. Mark 1:35
      2. Philippians 4:6-7
   3. How do we pray?
      1. James 1:6
      2. John 16:23

• Romans 8:26

1. 1 John 5:14

1. When do we pray? 1 Thessalonians 5:17
   1. What is the context of this very short verse?
   2. How do we practically apply this principle?
2. What are we expecting when we pray?
3. What if our prayers appear not to be answered?

2. There are two key phrases that are repeated in Matthew 6, verses 5 to 8. ( The use coloured highlighters can make these verses stand out)
   1. Identify the phrases.
   2. What does each phrase suggest to you?
   3. What do you think the motivation is for the person in verses 5 & 7?
   4. What is the motivation of the person in verses 6?
   5. Who should our attention be focused on when we pray? Why?

3. In verses 9 to 13, briefly describe the meaning behind each verse and how each verse can be used as a pattern or template of how Jesus is teaching us to pray.

4. Consider verses 16 to 18:
   1. Do you see similarities between Jesus teaching on prayer and his teaching on fasting?
      1. What phrases and concepts are similar?
   2. What is the difference in motivation and reward for the hypocrite and the person who follows Jesus’ teaching?

For Personal Reflection:

How would I rate my prayer life? Perhaps more important, how do I think Jesus would rate my relationship to him? Do my priorities reflect my desire/commitment to spend time with Jesus that he might impact my life, and through me impact the lives of others? What changes do I have to make to have the kind of intimate relationship with Jesus that he desires with me?

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All Nations Church

Life Group Study

Jesus Said – Matthew 5:38 – 48

Revenge Or Forgiveness

Week of February 13^th,  2022

Study by Wayne Arcand

The typical reaction of the world is to retaliate when hurt or offended. Law suits are often the first recourse when someone feels wronged. Honesty and integrity give way to what is expedient to achieve a desired outcome. But, Jesus teaches a very different approach in Matthew 5. There are truths taught in the passage today that we may find challenging. A truth the child of God can cling to in all situations is, “greater is he that is in me than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4). The words of an old chorus come to mind, “trust and obey, for there is no other way to happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.” May the Lord pour a blessing into your life as your trust and obey.

Matthew 5:38-48 (NIV)

Eye for Eye

³⁸ “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ ³⁹ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. ⁴⁰ And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. ⁴¹ If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. ⁴² Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Love for Enemies

⁴³ “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ⁴⁵ that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. ⁴⁶ If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? ⁴⁷ And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? ⁴⁸ Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Matthew 5:38-42

1. What does the saying, “an eye for an eye” mean?
   1. As you read these verses, what is your initial reaction to them?
   2. Is this retaliation, revenge, punishment? What is the basis for your answer?
   3. What concept of justice do you think “an eye for an eye” conveys?

2. The word ‘resist’ is translated from the word anthistemi, and it can also mean ‘take no legal action against’. Most of us may have never been in a position where we have felt wronged to the point of taking legal action.
   1. What justification do we use for legal action?
   2. Does that justification fit within the teaching from Matthew 5?
   3. Do you think there is a time when taking legal action is appropriate? Why or why not?

3. What does it practically mean to “turn the other cheek”, “go with them two miles”, “hand over your coat as well” and “give to the one who asks”? What character trait would you be demonstrating in following these verses?

4. There is no Old Testament teaching to hate your enemy. Leviticus 19:18 taught we are to love our neighbour as ourself.
   1. What attitude of heart do we display when we put verse 44 into practice?
   2. The clause, “that you might be called children of God” in verse 45 might be called a provisional result.
      1. In this passage, what is being called “children of God” dependent upon?
      2. How important than is having the attitude of heart from verse 44?

5. How does “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”, reflect the teaching of verse 44? Who is setting the example?

6. We naturally gravitate toward people who we enjoy being with and avoid those who make us feel uncomfortable. Do verses 46 and 47 change your attitude about showing love toward those whom you are uncomfortable with? Why?

7. Verse 48 tells us to “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
   1. What attitude/actions are required on our part to fulfill this command?
   2. What did the heavenly Father do for us that set the example?
   3. In comparison to the sacrifice the Father made on our behalf, is he asking too much of us?

For Reflection:

When I started thinking about this study, I planned on including Romans 12:17-21 in the study. But as I was praying and seeking the Lord in unpacking the verses from Matthew 5, I found there is just so much in these verses that are important for us to understand and apply to our lives. I do encourage you to read the passage from Romans and consider how this teaching complements the teaching in Matthew 5.

Romans 12:¹⁷ Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. ¹⁸ If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. ¹⁹ Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. ²⁰ On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” ²¹ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Who do I need to forgive? Who have I been avoiding? Who do I need to show love to? Pray that the Lord would give you the grace to be the reflection of Jesus in every relationship.

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All Nations Church

Life Group Study

Matthew 5:13-16

Week of February 6^th, 2022

Study by Wayne Arcand

In this study, we will look at two passages of scripture, Psalm 1 in the Old Testament and Matthew 5:13-16 in the New Testament in that order. As we consider the text, we will see how well the Old Testament relates to the New Testament.

Enjoy.

Psalm 1 (NIV)

¹ Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
² but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
³ That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers.

⁴ Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.
⁵ Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.

⁶ For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.

1. As we consider verse 1 and 2 of Psalm 1:
   1. Can you combine phrases or sentences that make a positive statement?
      1. How would following this positive practise prevent a person from living a life or doing things where they are not blessed?
   2. What is the opposite of “blessed is the one”?
      1. Considering the opposite of being blessed, what is the warning in these verses?

2. Verse 3 is rich in meaning. Read the verse and consider:
   1. What is this verse an analogy for?
   2. Who is the stream of living water?
   3. What does the phrase “which yields it’s fruit in season” suggest to you?
      1. What do you think takes place in our lives before we yield fruit?
      2. Since this verse does not suggest a time frame, what do you think will determine when our season is?
   4. Why does the leaf not wither?
   5. What is the key to “whatever they do prospers”?
   6. Rewrite this verse as it applies to you. I am …….

3. What is the connection between most of verse 1 and verses 4 and 5?

4. What is the promise and the warning from verse 6?

5. Summarize in two or three sentences the message from Psalm 1.

Matthew 5 (NIV): Salt and Light

13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

How can salt lose it’s saltiness? According to scholars, salt in that area came from salt marshes southwest of the Dead Sea. This salt had impurities in it that would cause the salt to deteriorate and loose it’s saltiness. At that point it was thrown out. Even today in Israel, that salt is spread on flat roofs to harden the soil and prevent leaks. That is where the children play, so the salt is literally trampled underfoot.

6. Who is the authour referring to in these verses?
   1. How do we become the salt of the earth?

7. What is the purpose of salt?
   1. How does this analogy apply to the follower of Jesus?

8. What is the purpose of light?
   1. How does this analogy apply to followers of Jesus?
   2. What is the purpose of letting your light shine?
   3. What impact might this have on an unbeliever?

9. What are examples of how we can be salt and light in the world?
   1. Where does this start?

10. Summarize the message from this passage of scripture.

Discussion Question:

Reread the two passages we are studying today and consider the guidance we are finding in these verses for living our life. What parallels can you find between the two passages?

Pray that the Lord would empower you with the Spirit of wisdom and discernment that you might be salt and light in your world.

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All Nations Church

Life Group Study

Matthew 5:1-12

Week of January 30^th, 2022

Study by Wayne Arcand

Books have been written on the beatitudes. This study will really only touch on the meaning and application. As we start this study, come before the Lord in prayer, humble your heart and ask him to reveal himself to you through his Word.   This study divides the beatitudes into three groups. Matthew Chapter 5 verses  3 to 5 is the first group, verse 6 will stand alone, verses 7, 8 and 9 will be the second group, verses 10 to 12 will be the last group. I would remind us of 2 Timothy 3:16, (NLT) “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” As we study the Beatitudes, consider how we can apply these truths to our lives.

Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount

Matthew 5:¹ Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, ² and he began to teach them.

The Beatitudes

He said:

³ “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
⁴ Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
⁵ Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

⁶ Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,  for they will be filled.
⁷ Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
⁸ Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
⁹ Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
¹⁰ Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

¹¹ “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. ¹² Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Before you start the study of the Beatitudes, I would encourage you to read last part of Matthew Chapter 4 to set the context for where Jesus is and what he has been doing.

We can have the character of Christ or a  character that resonates with worldly attitudes and views. As we go through this study we will discover what it means to live by the redeemed, transformed nature we have as a child of God, versus what it is like to live according to the old unredeemed nature of the world. You will notice that each of the Beatitudes have a reward for those who have the heart of Christ and a consequence for those who choose not to.

1. Matthew 5: 3-5:
   1. Verse 3: To be poor in spirit is to be humble, not self-sufficient, to depend on God.
      1. What attitude do I need, to display these characteristics in my life?
      2. How does this contrast to the attitude of the world?

• What changes have to made in a life, to change from the world view of pride in who I am and what I have made of myself, being self-sufficient and independent, to one that displays the characteristics of one who is ‘poor in spirit’?

1. What is the reward for those who are ‘poor in spirit’?
   1. What does this suggest the consequences will be if we do not display this characteristic?

1. Verse 4: We can experience sorrow for many reasons. Perhaps we generally think of this verse in connection to the loss of a loved one. But someone who, because of chronic disease or an accident, has lost abilities they once had, can mourn the loss of those abilities. Someone who has sinned against God in their thoughts, words or actions can mourn their weakness in giving in to a sinful action.
   1. How can we change our attitude and/or our thinking to feel comfort when we mourn a loss?
   2. How do we experience comfort?

• How can we show or give comfort to others?

1. Verse 5: To be meek is to be gentle, trust in God and not be self-centred.
   1. How do we display an attitude of meekness in our life?
   2. What attitude in the world does this contrast with?

• Can a person who displays the characteristic of meekness be successful in the world? Explain?

1. What is the reward:
   1. For being ‘meek’? Explain your answer.
   2. What does this suggest the consequences will be if we do not display this characteristic?
2. Matthew 5:6:
   1. Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness have a deep desire to be forgiven and to do what God commands.
      1. What is the first step to becoming a person who thirsts for righteousness?
      2. What can we do in our daily lives to enhance this attitude?

3. Matthew 5:7-9:
   1. Verse 7: To be merciful implies mercy, compassion, generosity.
      1. Why should we show mercy, be compassionate and generous?
      2. What are some examples of how we can show these attributes in our lives?

• What is the reward:
  1. For being ‘merciful’?
  2. What does this suggest our lot will be if we do not display this characteristic?

1. Verse 8: To be pure in heart is to be morally pure, honest and sincere.
   1. What does this mean to you?
   2. How does this impact our relationship with others?

• What is our reward for displaying this characteristic versus the implied consequence of not displaying this characteristic in our lives?

1. Verse 9: To be a peacemaker is to make peace, bring about reconciliation, to end bitterness and strife.
   1. Can we be a peacemaker without being at peace ourself?
      1. If you answered no, explain why.
      2. If you answered yes, explain the basis for your answer.
   2. Is this a pacifist or active role?

• How do we do this?

1. How will the peacemakers be known?

4. Consider verses 10, 11 and 12:
   1. What are some ways a follower of Jesus can experience persecution?
   2. How does the promise, “Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven”, help us to stand in the face of persecution?

For Reflection:

As I was reflecting on the Beatitudes, the words of an old hymn came to mind: Would you be ready if Jesus came today, Would you be ready to follow in His way, Would He take you by the hand or would He have you turn away. Would you be ready if Jesus came today. We tend to live as if we are going to be with the Lord at some point in the future, but we don’t know when our time will come. If you live each day in a way that honours the Lord, you will be able to answer ‘yes’ to the question, ‘would you be ready if Jesus came today?’. Would you be ready?