Blog

Fall 2026

Generations: From Canaan to Jerusalem The English writer George Orwell (1903–1950) points out a recurring trend among generations: “Each generation imagines itself to be more intelligent than the one that went before it, and wiser than the one that comes after it.” The quote highlights how each generation often overlooks lessons from the past and is short-sighted regarding the future. A pattern of forgetting also affects generations of God’s people throughout the Old Testament. Nomadic Tribes to Settled People After Moses’ death, the Lord establishes Joshua as Israel’s leader and assures assures Joshua of his presence (Joshua 1:2–9; see Lesson 1). As the Israelites enter the promised land, Joshua encourages them to remember God’s provision. Joshua compares their Jordan River crossing with the previous generation’s crossing of the Red Sea (4:19–24; see Lesson 2). Much of the book of Joshua records the destruction of various nations by the Israelites. While […]

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Summer 2026

The Testimony of Faithful Witnesses This quarter will look at the examples of faithful witnesses from Scripture. These were people who heard the call of God, responded in faith, and testified to God’s mercy and fidelity to his promises through their words and deeds. Faithful Witnesses in Ancient Israel Faithful witnesses in ancient Israel model God’s faithfulness to his word. Deborah, a courageous judge of Israel, demonstrates her trust in God’s promise to save his people by risking her life in battle (Judges 4:4–10, 14; see lesson 1). In the period following the judges, a devoted supplicant named Hannah tearfully prays to God for a child (1 Samuel 1:9–20; see lesson 2). Because of her persistence, Hannah plays a vital role in God’s plan for Israel, dedicating her son to serve God. This son would become a significant figure in the monarchy of Israel. During that time, the friendship between […]

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Spring 2026

Social Teachings of the Church God instructs his people to relate in particular ways to their friends, neighbors, family, governmental structures, and even the structured rhythm of our days. He cares about how we treat our bodies, what we consume, and how we use our time. This quarter contemplates a kingdom perspective regarding our responsibilities, relationships, and commitments Obligations to Neighbors The first unit of lessons explores the relationship between God’s people and their neighbors inside and outside the church. This unit begins by studying the Israelites’ exile in Babylon and looking at Daniel’s exercise of faith in a hostile environment (Daniel 1:8–17; see lesson 1). The lesson also considers mental and spiritual health alongside care for our physical bodies (1 Timothy 4:7–8). Other lessons in this unit teach that Christian love is not simply an intellectual exercise but an intentional action. For example, God’s people love others when they […]

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Winter 2025

Enduring Beliefs of the Church The lessons of this quarter invite us to meditate on the fundamental beliefs of the Christian faith. This study will show us that God has revealed his grace and mercy. As a result, God’s people are called to live by his standard—a standard that is often countercultural. Our God and the Holy Scripture The quarter begins as we study the Trinitarian God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—whom we know through Scripture’s revelation. Scripture recounts how God’s people can know him and live faithfully through faith in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:14–15; see lesson 1). Through various word images, Scripture conveys characteristics of God and reveals aspects of our relationship with him—he is our caring heavenly Father (Matthew 6:24–34; see lesson 2), the shepherd who seeks lost sheep (Luke 15:3–7; see lesson 3), and our advocate or comforter (Romans 8:26–27; see lesson 4). Grace and Reconciliation The […]

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