Lesson 10 (Dec 2-8), Children of the Promise

Paul's Burden

1. What was God's purpose in selecting Israel as his chosen people? How much of God's purposes for them did the Israelites fulfill?
2. What, if any, are our obligations as heirs of Abraham?

Elected

1. What made Abel, Jacob and the prodigal son, preferred over their older brother? Is the older brother usually less inclined to religious matters?
2. What did God mean when he said "Esau I have hated?"Could Esau have been the one through whom the Messiah came?

Mysteries

1. Why does the Bible say that God hardened Pharaoh's heart? How much choice did the human have in it?
2. Why does God keep some things hidden from humans?
3. How are discoveries made, by accident, or by plan of God?

Ammi: "My People"

1. Why would Father Hosea name his son "Not my people?" Why was his name changed to "my people?'
2. Would God have had His prophet marry a prostitute or was only an object lesson, a parable?

Stumbling

1. In what way did Jesus become a stumbling block for the Jews? Why was it difficult for them to accept Him as their Messiah?
2. What in other people become stumbling blocks for me?
3. Should I be bothered if I am a stumbling block for someone, or is it their own lookout?