Growing in God's Word in 2021

God is granting us another year of his grace.  While there are many projects we could take up, and many of them would have some value to them, we also have the opportunity to grow in God's word, to strengthen our faith, to prepare against any attack on our faith, to become confident in confessing our faith, and to yearn more deeply for the glory of the heavenly kingdom to come.

With that in mind, here are many opportunities for you to grow in God's word in 2021.  Let's make the most of the opportunities that our Lord gives us!

ADULT BIBLE CLASS -- Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob

            We will continue our study on the Patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 
            We will focus our attention on how God's promise of a Savior was proclaimed and worked through these men of faith.  We will recognize their faith and their flaws, but especially God's grace.  Classes are Sundays at 8:45 AM.

            The class will follow this tentative schedule.

01/03     Genesis 28:1 – 29:30 Jacob flees to Haran; Jacob marries Leah and Rachel
01/10     Genesis 29:31 – 30:43 Jacob's children; Jacob's prosperity
01/17     Genesis 31:1 – 33:20 Jacob flees from Laban; Jacob wrestles with God; 

                                                                    Jacob meets Esau
bypass   Genesis 34:1 – 36:43 (Dinah; God renames Jacob to Israel; Esau's descendants)

01/24     Genesis 37:1 – 38:30 Joseph's dreams; Joseph sold into slavery; Judah and Tamar

01/31     Genesis 39:1 – 41:57 Joseph & Potiphar's wife; Joseph interprets dreams
02/07     Genesis 42:1 – 43:34 Joseph's brothers come to Egypt
02/14     Genesis 44:1 – 46:27 Joseph makes himself known; Jacob and Joseph reunited
02/21     Genesis 46:28 – 48:22 Israel settles in Egypt; Israel blesses Joseph's sons
02/28     Genesis 49:1 – 50:26 Israel blesses his sons; Israel dies; Joseph forgives his brothers

BIBLE MATTERS, A Discussion Group

Bible Matters is a topical discussion group that enables God’s people to become more comfortable in discussing matters of the Christian faith and more confident in defending the Bible’s teachings.  We encourage open dialogue and welcome bold questions.  All are welcome to consider how God’s word addresses various topics.

            Topics for our winter sessions are:

                January 6         Suggestions for meditating on God’s Word
                January 13       Can a Christian hate anything?

    January 20       Does God speak through dreams?

                January 27       Why Lutheran?
                February 3       When God is silent, what is our confession?
                February 10     “Male and female he created them.” Why is this controversial?
                February 17     Ash Wednesday; Lenten services begin.

Bible Matters meets on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM. 

BIBLE INFORMATION CLASS

Bible Information Class will begin on Monday, January 11. Classes will be 7:00 – 8:30 PM.  The schedule is as follows: 

        January 11         God's Plan of Salvation
        January 18         God Created a Beautiful Universe.
        January 25         Why is the World So Crazy?
        February 1         How did Jesus Save the World?
        February 8         The End is Coming!
        February 22       Why do We Need the Bible?
        March 1             God Works through Holy Baptism.
        March 8             God Works through Holy Communion.
        March 15           God Gathers His Church.
        March 22           A Conversation with God.
        March 29           Our Spiritual Heartbeat
        April 12             Love the Lord your God
        April 19             Love your Neighbor – Part 1
        April 26             Love your Neighbor – Part 2; Take good care.                

                While this class is geared toward people who are interested in church membership at Good Shepherd, taking the class does not obligate you to join the church.  If you simply want to grow in your knowledge of the Bible, this class is for you. 

               There is no cost.  All materials are provided.  You will not be put on the spot to answer questions (though we will ask your name).  You are not even expected to know anything.  Come with questions.  Come with friends.  Come and learn what God wants you to know.

            Call (248-349-0565) or e-mail (welsnovi@aol.com) if you are interested or have any questions about this class.  

THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
            Here is a schedule you can use to read through the entire Bible in 2021.  This schedule would have you read through the Gospels twice.  Granted, it is an aggressive schedule, but if you read just 20 minutes each day, you can do it.  

            You can find the schedule here: WORBIbleThroughTheYear.15373011.pdf 
            If you should desire a less aggressive schedule, I can find a Through My Bible in Three Years schedule for you.  God bless you as you grow through the word in 2021.