Podcasts about main idea

Question. Does Jesus really care about the spiritual health of His church? Main Idea. Jesus cares about His church's health, especially her heart. Five ways Jesus cares for the spiritual health of His church. 1. Jesus is close (1) 2. Jesus compliments (2–3, 6) Jesus compliments the church in Ephesus for three things: Hard work and endurance (2-3) Rejecting false teaching (2) Rejection of sin (6) 3. Jesus confronts (4) 4. Jesus calls (5) Jesus calls the church to three things to restore love: Remember (5) Repent (5) Return (5) 5. Jesus comforts (7) Practically: How do we grow in our love for Christ? Consider Paul's Example of Affection for Christ (Phil 3:7–9) 1. Count All Else As Loss. 2. Know Him Deeply. 3. Trust His Righteousness. Takeaways. 1. Christ is with us. 2. Christ wants our love.

Main Idea. When God's people reject their King's rule, moral chaos rules and the weak have no refuge. Question. How do people live when they reject God as their king? 1. The Depths of Depravity (19:1–21:24) A. Corruption in Gibeah (19:1–30) B. Civil War in Israel (20:1–25) C. Condemnation of Benjamin (20:26–48) D. Compromise in Benjamin's Restoration (21:1–24) 2. The Desperation for a King (21:25) Deut 17:14–20. 14 “When you come to the land that the Lord your God is giving you, and you possess it and dwell in it and then say, ‘I will set a king over me, like all the nations that are around me,' 15 you may indeed set a king over you whom the Lord your God will choose. One from among your brothers you shall set as king over you. You may not put a foreigner over you, who is not your brother. 16 Only he must not acquire many horses for himself or cause the people to return to Egypt in order to acquire many horses, since the Lord has said to you, ‘You shall never return that way again.' 17 And he shall not acquire many wives for himself, lest his heart turn away, nor shall he acquire for himself excessive silver and gold. 18 “And when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself in a book a copy of this law, approved by the Levitical priests. 19 And it shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes, and doing them, 20 that his heart may not be lifted up above his brothers, and that he may not turn aside from the commandment, either to the right hand or to the left, so that he may continue long in his kingdom, he and his children, in Israel. What does life look like under the good and kingly rule of Jesus Christ? Justice is assured for all Women are honored and protected Men are called to sacrificial protection Forgiveness flows to all

Main Idea: "If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit."1. The List of Vices: "Works of the flesh"2. The warning to those practicing such things3. Practical helps in keeping in step with the Spirit

Main Idea: "God delays His judgement in patience, but He will surely come to refine His people and judge the wicked."1. The people's complaint against God2. The promise of God's coming3. The results of God's coming

Main Idea. God crushes the mighty through the humiliation of his servant. 1. The donkey-slayer becomes a donkey (1–21) Three specific sins that lead Samson into slavery: 1. Pride (1–3) 2. Pleasure (1, 4–19) 3. Presumption (20) Spurgeon said, see what sin will do. That shaved man made slave is the picture of many who were the once avowed servants of God and were valiant for the truth of God. They have lost the locks of their dedication and are led captive by the devil at his will. They cannot see as they used to see; darkness shuts out all joy. For they do not work for God as they used to, for they are slaving for people. How the mighty have fallen? 2. But the donkey becomes God's deliverer (22–31) 2 Responses. 1. No matter your past or present, if you cry out to God, He will deliver you. 2. Your life isn't defined by shame, but moving forward it must be marked by weakness and dependence. 2 Takeaways. 1. God is strong for undeserving people. 2. God is relentless in keeping his people.

Main Idea: "Christian, walk by the Spirit."1. What it is to "walk by the Spirit"2. Why we are called to walk by the Spirit3. A word of encouragement

Main Idea. God continues to grant His great deliverance by the hand of a flawed servant. Four moving parts to this narrative: 1. The Cycle of Revenge (1–8) 2. The Compromise of God's People (9–13) 3. The Conquering of God's Spirit (14–17) 4. The Cry of God's Servant (18–20) Takeaways. God works through broken people. God wins through weakness. God wants to provide life to the thirsty.

Main Idea: "Use your freedom to lovingly serve one another by the power of the Holy Spirit."1. How do we use our freedom?2. Why? It fulfills the law.3. Why? Because failing to do so destroys Christian community.4. How? It is by the Spirit that we find the strength to use our freedom in this way.

The Main Idea of the Sermon: Ask for big things from our great God, that are in line with His past acts!

Main Idea. The Lord works through even bitter circumstances to bring about sweet deliverance for His people. Sermon Question. How did God work through Samson to begin the deliverance of His people? 4 ways God begins deliverance… 1. A Bride for His Purpose (1–4) 2. Strength by His Spirit (5–9) “If that roaring lion that goes about seeking whom he may devour finds us alone among the vineyards of the Philistines, where is our hope? Not in our heels… not in our weapons… but in the Spirit of God, by whom we can do all things. There is a stronger lion in us than that against us.” (Spurgeon) 3. Conflict of His Design (10–18) 4. Judgment by His Power (19–20) Takeaways. The Spirit Who Strengthens The Sovereignty of God Is Not a License to Sin There is Sweetness in Suffering The Sharing of Sweetness with Others

Main Idea: "When the situation is serious, a serious response is needed."1. Serious error requires a serious response2. Serious truth calls for the willingness to make serious sacrifices

Main Idea. God graciously begins our deliverance by providing his own Deliverer. Sermon Question. How does God bring hope to the helpless? 1. God's Provides a Savior (1–7) Two Observations. God's redemptive plan unfolds through miraculous births. God works before we even ask. 2. God Receives a Sacrifice (8–25) Two Responses. Manoah trembles before God's holiness (22). His wife reasons with gospel clarity (23). Takeaways. Trust God's Word. Treasure Christ's Presence. Take Refuge in Christ's Sacrifice.

Main Idea: "Through the Spirit, by faith, eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness."1. The way of deadly ritualism2. The way of saving faith

Ever feel like you read your Bible...but don't really understand it? In this episode, we explore the second step of the EASY Bible Study Method: Assess the Main Idea. Whether you have just 10 minutes or a full hour for Bible study, you'll learn a simple, flexible approach to understanding Scripture that meets you right where you are: and grows with you over time. Click here to send us your email for our newsletter OR to send a message to the show! We have no way of responding unless you leave your email.Want to study God's Word for yourself? Try our In-Depth Bible Study Academy Click here to try a free mini-course!Support the show

Main Idea: "Align your priorities with God's priorities in order to build God's house."1. Align your priorities with God's priorities by considering your ways (1:1-11)2. Build God's house by obeying His Word (1:12-15)

In this episode, Jenn David-Lang interviews Jenice Pizzuto and Steven Carney about their book Implement with IMPACT: A Strategic Framework for Leading School and District Initiatives. The discussion focuses on their strategic framework for effectively implementing school and district initiatives using research-based practices. They emphasize the importance of including stakeholders, meticulous planning, professional learning, and a human-centered approach to change. The conversation highlights the common pitfalls in implementation, particularly the often-skipped "plan and prepare" stage, and offers actionable insights for educators and leaders looking to close the gap between knowledge and practice. They also introduce their acronym 'IMPACT' as a guide for keeping the human elements in mind during implementation. If you want to learn more, Steven Carney will be doing a workshop on how to make your initiatives and changes go well on September 17, 2025 free for subscribers to THE MAIN IDEA. Consider becoming a subscriber: TheMainIdea.net Additionally, if you're deeply committed to your school's initiatives and want to truly make an IMPACT, tune in to understand the science behind successful implementation and how to apply it in your setting! Jenice Pizzuto's website: https://www.impactleadsucceed.com/ Steven Carney's website: https://www.impactlearnandlead.com/ If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions for future episodes—including great non-education books with lessons for school leaders—email us at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. Please consider leaving a rating and review on Spotify or iTunes to support the show. Every bit helps! And if you found this episode helpful, share it with your colleagues. Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Contact Mike directly at Dr.mike.doughty@gmail.com. To explore insightful summaries of top leadership books, connect with Jenn David-Lang at Jenn@TheMainIdea.net or visit TheMainIdea.net.  

The Main Idea of the Sermon: When you feel dejected and rejected, rejoice in God your Savior!

The Main Idea of the Sermon: Friends bring friends to Jesus.

Pastors: Jordan Hansen Series: James: Faith That Works (1) Title: Tested Faith Date: 2025.06.14+15   CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Teaser 00:30 - Series 00:59 - Sermon 02:47 - Question 09:22 - Point 1 18:49 - Point 2 22:45 - Point 3 28:21 - The Rack 29:14 - Testimony 31:46 - Main Idea 35:44 - Closing   SERVICE TIMES:

Pastors: Jordan Hansen Series: Committed (6) Title: Committed To The God-Sized Vision Date: 2025.06.07+08   CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Teaser 01:06 - Series 01:41 - Sermon 03:22 - Question (1) 04:14 - Chart (1) 09:44 - Chart (2) 12:48 - God-Sized Vision 13:16 - Interviews 15:24 - Question (2) 18:27 - Point 1 25:17 - Point 2 30:55 - Point 3a 33:34 - Love Dayton 34:11 - Point 3b 35:03 - Eswatini Trip 41:38 - Main Idea 42:03 - Closing   SERVICE TIMES:

The Main Idea of the Sermon: When you hear or face the worst, turn your worry into worship; worshiping with God's people!

The Main Idea of the Sermon: Our holy and glorious God is bringing a reckoning against all the evil and oppressive peoples and nations.

Pastors: Enos Marshall Series: Committed (4) Title: Be His People Date: 2025.05.24+25   CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Teaser 00:24 - Series 00:59 - Introduction (1) 01:33 - Ordination Service 03:05 - Introduction (2) 03:34 - Family Pictures (1) 04:20 - Family Pictures (2) 04:39 - Sermon (1) 15:58 - Main Idea 31:46 - Testimony 35:28 - Sermon (2) 39:20 - Closing 40:41 - Next Steps   SERVICE TIMES:

Children on the autism spectrum (ASD) present some interesting challenges when it comes to reading instruction. Part 1 of this series considered the difficulties that these children may have with decoding -- despite the fact that there are a surprising number who have hyperlexia, especially good decoding ability. However, most of these students struggle more with comprehension than decoding and this podcast explores what their comprehension problems tend to be and how they might be addressed.

The Main Idea of the Sermon: A faithful herald in fickle times remains mission focused.

Driving Question. Where is true life found? Main Idea. By His grace, true life is found by hoping in God and guarding His gospel. 1. By hoping in God, not earthly wealth (17–19) Two warnings of wealth. i. (17) Danger of haughtiness. ii. (17) Danger of false hope. Helpful and hopeful reminder. "but [set your hope] on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy." Matt 6:19–21 Jn 10:10 Application. [Two indications that you're trusting in Christ and storing up treasure]: i. Thankful to God and rightly enjoy what he provides (17). ii. Be rich in good works, generous and ready to share (18). 2. By holding-fast God's gospel, not man's knowledge (20–21) Paul gives three final pleads to Timothy to have a faithful pastorate. i. A careful ministry (20) ii. A blameless ministry (20) iii. A graceful ministry (21) Application: i. Do you treasure God's Word as a sacred trust, or treat it as common? ii. Are you proactively guarding your heart and your church from error? iii. Are you more influenced by podcasts, pundits, and platforms than by Scripture? iv. Where might your heart be drifting from the simplicity and sufficiency of Jesus? Three Takeaways from 1 Timothy. 1. The Church exists to protect sound doctrine. Know the signs of false teachers (1:3–7; 4:1–3; 6:4–5, 21) Prayer keeps the church gospel centered (2:1–7) Proper roles rooted in creation (2:8–15) Faithful qualified officers (3:1–13) Teaching right doctrine (1:3–7, 10–11; 4:1–6, 11–16; 6:3–5, 20–21) Faithful living that bears Christ's name (1:3–5; 3:1–16; 4:6, 12–16; 6:3, 6–12) Rich doctrine is found only in Jesus Christ (1:1–2; 3:16, 6:21) 2. The Church is a household with structure. Christ is the head of the church (1:1–2; 3:14–15) Prayer and the Word guide worship (2:1–7; 4:13–16) Led by Elders (also called overseers) (3:1–7) Served by Deacons (3:8–13) The Congregation is a family (3:14–15; 5:1–2) Caring for widows (5:3–16) Supporting elders (5:17–18) Accountable to each other (doctrine, relationships, actions, care) 3. The Gospel is for the nations. Jesus came into the world to save sinners (1:15) Prayer (2:1–7) The glorious gospel itself (3:16) The gospel forms the church in missional context (cf Acts 18:19–21; 19:1–10; 20:17–38)

Main Idea: "Because Christ suffered, died, rose from the dead, and victoriously ascended into heaven to His Father, we have an eternal hope of salvation to persevere in living for Jesus."1. Jesus brings us safely to God2. Jesus proclaimed His victory3. Jesus brings His enemies into subjection to Himself

The Main Idea of the Sermon: Followers of Jesus are called to cherish God, grow in Christ, and advance the gospel.

Main Idea: "We're justified by faith alone in Christ alone, apart from who we are or what we've done.”1. Not our blood, but His.2. Not our works, but His.

Main Idea: "Beware of walking out of step with the truth of the gospel.”1. People-pleasing leads us out of step with the truth of the gospel2. None of us is above walking out of step with the truth of the gospel.3. When others are walking out of step with the truth of the gospel, confrontation is necessary.

Question. To what extent do you actually believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ? Main Idea. The risen Christ provides us peace, fulfilling all Scripture, and sends witnesses to proclaim this truth. Jesus makes clear 3 things that bring his disciples peace: 1. His presence in risen flesh (vv. 36–43) 2. His purpose to fulfill all Scriptures (vv. 44–46) 3. His proclamation is for all nations (vv. 47–49) Responses. Do not be troubled, for Christ has been raised from the dead (v. 38). Repent and be forgiven, for Christ has offered you grace (v. 47). Go tell the nations, for Christ has commanded our obedience (v. 48). Worship and rejoice, for Christ is worthy of our praise (v. 53).

In this episode, Jenn has a conversation with one of the educators who was featured prominently in Harry and Rosemary Wong's latest book, THE New Teacher Induction Book: How to Recruit, Train, and Retain New Teachers. Tara Link is a leader who started an induction program 18 years ago in Moberly, Missouri. She joined Jenn to talk about Rosemary and Harry Wong's latest book, and she had so many useful tips to share. Unfortunately, while we are losing a number of our new and newer teachers, we are also not doing as good of a job of supporting our new teachers as well. About 50% of all new teachers receive no induction at all. Tara shared some of the problems our new teachers face. Sometimes they don't receive anything more than a welcome and then the rest of their new teacher support is left up to chance. They also struggle with a whole new generation of classroom management issues that may have looked different in the past. Plus, newer teachers are increasingly coming through alternative certification routes so they may not have had enough training.  Tara really emphasized the importance of DIFFERENTIATING the support we provide to new teachers and being extremely CLEAR. We discussed THREE KEY COMPONENTS of an effective new teacher support system that the Wongs outlined in their book: 1. COLLABORATION New teachers need to connect with a wide range of the people they plan to work with and need to feel they are part of something bigger than themselves. This connects to purpose and our Gen-Z teachers are particularly feeling the need to connect to their purpose. 2. PD TAILORED TO THE NEEDS OF NEW TEACHERS We need to provide new teachers with PD on the basics -- classroom management, lesson design -- and not just jump into training them on the latest fad. As leaders we also need to continually model for new teachers. Be the model of what you want them to be. 3. A COMPREHENSIVE, MULTI-YEAR APPROACH We need to do much more with our new teachers than have them come a day or two before the rest of the staff. Tara developed a model program S.H.I.N.E. (Supporting, Helping, and Inspiring New Educators) that lasts two full years. She shares some successful elements of her program but encourages you to ask your experienced teachers what was helpful in supporting them and look around at your own resources to see how you can use them to support new teachers.  Where to start? Tara recommends just choosing ONE system of support. Choose something you are already doing well and plus-one it, that is, add to what you're already doing well. RESOURCES • THE New Teacher Induction Book: How to Recruit, Train, and Retain New Teachers by Harry and Rosemary Wong (and Jenn's summary for The Main Idea is out in April) • Tara Link's latest book, Teacher Induction that Works: A Lasting Impact from Day One. As always, send your comments, questions, and show ideas to mike@schoolleadershipshow.com. Consider rating the podcast in iTunes and leaving a comment.  And please pass the show along to your colleagues. Additionally, if you have other non-education books with implications for school leaders, send those suggestions our way, too. And finally, If you or someone you know would like to sponsor the show, send Mike an email at mike@schoolleadershipshow.com.

4-6-25 PM "A Commandment for a Spiritual Worship"Scripture Reading: John 4:1-26, Sermon Text: Heidelberg Catechism, Lord's Day 35I. The Obligation for a Spiritual WorshipA. Given the Nature of WorshipB. Given the Object of WorshipII. The Regulation of a Spiritual WorshipA. The Main Idea of the RegulationB. The Basic Elements in the RegulationIII. The Instruction in a Spiritual WorshipA. Preaching for an InstructionB. Preaching of the WordRev. Greg Lubbers

The Main Idea of the Sermon: The good work of doing things for Jesus often gets in the way of the better work of being with Jesus.

Pastor: Jordan Moore Series: Seven (4) Title: Despair Date: 2024.03.29+30 --------------------- CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Teaser 00:14 - Series 00:56 - Sermon 05:17 - Main Idea 05:32 - Not Veggies?! 07:42 - The Dress 10:53 - Point 1 20:24 - Point 2a 29:10 - Testimony 31:18 - Point 2b 31:55 - Point 3 35:04 - Point 4 40:23 - Closing --------------------- LINKS / RESOURCES:

Responding to emergencies takes two things: leadership and communication. Are you prepared? Mike and Jenn had a truly productive conversation with school preparedness expert, Chris Joffe. He talked about everything from why leaders need to start with themselves and understand how THEY respond to emergencies. He also shared that one of the essential keys is having an emergency org chart and teams to deal with the wide range of emergencies your school might have. Throughout it all, Chris emphasized that humans and relationships are key. Why? Because “emergencies require people to respond.” Unfortunately, his data shows that the vast majority of emergencies are an escalation of an event – an incident in school that leads to fights, weapons, or even worse, a school shooting. To learn more about Chris and the services Joffe Emergencies provides for school: https://www.joffeemergencyservices.com/ Chris has offered to do a free workshop for subscribers to THE MAIN IDEA on the emergency preparedness stuff you won't find in the district handbook – it will be April 7 at 4pm ET / 1pm PT – sign up here (https://forms.gle/TSStmwiAo8jkSmvn7 ) or reach out to me at Jenn@TheMainIdea.net As always, send your comments, questions, and show ideas to mike@schoolleadershipshow.com. Consider rating the podcast in iTunes and leaving a comment.  And please pass the show along to your colleagues. Additionally, if you have other non-education books with implications for school leaders, send those suggestions our way, too. And finally, If you or someone you know would like to sponsor the show, send Mike an email at mike@schoolleadershipshow.com.  

Joshua 8:1-35 | Ben Potloff | God often uses our setbacks and failures to teach us to rely on Him more completely. In this chapter, we see Joshua grow as a leader as he learns to walk in deeper dependence upon the LORD. We see God take the very means of their earlier defeat at Ai and turn it into a brilliant strategy for victory. God's plan to deliver his people is back on track. Joshua's position as a leader is strengthened, and Joshua gains a new understanding of God's steadfast mercy and sovereign will.MAIN IDEAGod blesses the obedient and curses the rebel. OUTLINEI. God is faithful and gives His people victory (vv. 1-29)II. God gives His people His Word (vv. 30-35)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Your army just faced its first defeat and one of your soldiers disobeyed a direct order. If you are the leader, how would you be feeling about this? How would you respond to God's instruction in verses 1-2 ? Would you be doubtful, or hopeful?2. Compare and contrast God's battle plan (v. 2-8) with the one used in the previous attack on Ai (see Joshua 7:3-5). Tell of a time when your first attempt to tackle a problem didn't work out very well; but then you prayed about it, and God showed you a better way.3. How does God “redeem” Joshua's earlier defeat and make it a key element of victory? How have you experienced this in your own life, where God takes something you thought was really bad and turns it into something redemptive?4. Compare God's instructions regarding the plunder of Jericho and Ai (6:18-19 vs. 8:2). At Jericho, Achan disobeyed and faced judgment – if only he had waited! How do we sometimes do this? (God wants to give us something but we aren't willing to wait). Is there a situation in your life where you need to wait on the Lord, and trust Him to provide in his own way and his own timing?5. Moses gave instructions for the Covenant renewal in Deuteronomy 31. Why do you think Joshua did this AFTER God gave them victory at Ai instead of before? How is this an example of God's mercy and loving-kindness towards us? How is this truth expressed in 1 John 1:10, 19?

Pastor: Jordan Hansen Series: Freedom (4) Title: Hard Times Date: 2024.02.22+23 --------------------- CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Teaser 00:18 - Series 01:22 - Sermon 02:39 - Question (1) 03:06 - YouTube Channel 03:40 - Question (2) 07:11 - Point 1 18:53 - Point 2 26:34 - Point 3a 30:06 - Testimony 33:14 - Point 3b 41:25 - Main Idea 42:03 - Song 45:55 - Closing --------------------- LINKS / RESOURCES:

Joshua 7:1-26 | Ben Potloff | As Israel approaches their next adversary, Ai (not to be confused with artificial intelligence), all indications are that this should be a cake walk. Picture a sense of pridefulness and a bit of arrogance here. The recommendation is to only send a small squad, maybe the JV team (don't bother the whole group with such a small town.) Then, something goes horribly wrong. What happened, why did it all go south? What can we learn from this defeat? What can we learn from Joshua's response? What can we learn from the consequences of sin? Let's explore Joshua 7 together and course correct where we see areas in our own life that might need transformation.MAIN IDEARebellion kindles God's wrath.OUTLINEI. Secret sin is known by the Lord (vv. 1-21)II. Sin must be punished to appease the Lord's anger (vv. 22-26)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Read Joshua 7:2-5 Discuss some of the mistakes you can see that Joshua made.2. Read Joshua 7:6-9 Discuss Joshua's response to this defeat. Is this your 1st response when things go south?3. Achan coveted the items, stole them from God's treasury, then lied about it. He desired the things he saw more than God. How do we reverse that and desire God above all else?4. Thirty-six fellow Israelites paid with their life for Achan's sin. Discuss how our sin can have ramifications that affect many others.5. Read Joshua 7:22-26. Discuss the final punishment that Achan, his wife, and his children were sentenced to. Discuss why God's wrath, concerning sin, may be the most unacceptable of doctrines, in our time. Discuss why sin cannot be tolerated by a Holy God. Does this change your view on your own sin?6. Finish by discussing the payment God made for our sin and how costly that was. Does that make you more thankful for not getting what we deserve?

Joshua 5:13-6:27 | Ben Potloff | This week we have a familiar story of Joshua leading the Israelites against the fortified city of Jericho. They had just miraculously crossed over the Jordan river, set themselves apart by circumcising all the men, and now Joshua experiences a conversation with God. At this point Joshua is clearly set apart for the task of leading Israel against the city of Jericho. This is an impossible task done in an improbable way. God gave Joshua instructions to take the city, however not by force, but through obedience.MAIN IDEAVictory belongs to the Lord. OUTLINEI. The Lord fights for his people and promises complete victory (5:13-6:5)II. God's people are to respond to His promises with obedience (6:6-21)III. Those promised salvation by faith will surely receive it (6:22-27)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. The baton or mantle of Moses was passed to Joshua. Moses, the man who had faced Pharaoh, who had led the nation across the red sea, who had struck the ground and water came forth, who led the nation day after day, the man who was known as a friend of God, and now it was Joshua's turn to take over. What do you think Joshua felt at this point? A bit daunting? Discuss a time you had big shoes to fill—what did you do? What would you have done differently?2. In Joshua 5:13-15 Joshua was approached by a mysterious man with a drawn sword. What did Joshua ask the man? What was the man's reply? What did the man command Joshua to do? Who also was commanded to take off his sandals? Thinking about these two encounters with God—how can that change our perspective on how we live?3. Have you ever noticed that Joshua never asks, “Why God?” Do we ever require a “why” to be answered before obeying? Read 1 Samuel 15:22. What do you think God means by saying, “To obey is better than sacrifice”? What does that look like for us today?4. Read Joshua 6:8-10, 15-16. This chapter references the number “7” fourteen times. There are so many places in the Bible where numbers are significant. Where are other times we see the number seven referenced in the Bible? Bonus: Read Revelation 8.5. Read Joshua 2:15-18 and 6:22-25. Who was Rahab? What was the agreement the spies of Israel had with Rahab? What was the indicator for the Israelite army to identify Rahab and her family at the time of the attack? Does the color of the cord displayed in the window have any significance? Read Exodus 12:13. What similarities do you see to the first Passover?

Joshua 5:1-12 | Max Janusch | It's the perfect time for the people of Israel to recommit themselves to the Lord. And what better way to do that than for all the men who had been born in the wilderness, who had never been circumcised to be circumcised. Circumcision is the outward sign for the people of Israel that they are God's and God's alone. For whatever reason, in the wilderness, the practice had stopped, but now is the time for this next generation to commit themselves to the Lord, outwardly and inwardly. So, all the men get the snip with new flint knives. Then the people rest, recover and celebrate the first Passover in their new land.MAIN IDEAOur covenant-keeping God produces covenant-keeping people.OUTLINEI. God establishes relationship with his people. (vv. 1-9)II. God fulfills his promises to his people. (vv. 10-12)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Discuss the ways in which the miracles of the Lord make possible what we read in Joshua 5:1-12 (i.e. being able to circumcise all the warrior aged men and celebrate Passover). What are the ways you have seen the Lord working in your life in ways that only He can?2. We are not asked to circumcise ourselves to show our faithfulness to God, but what are the things that God does call us to do once we are saved by his grace? What are the things he asks us to do that you find the most difficult and how might your community group help you to be more faithful in those areas?3. The people of Israel, here at the beginning of Joshua, are showing themselves to be obedient children to their heavenly Father. Is there anything in your life you find God calling you to? If there has been something keeping you from obeying, what is it and how might you overcome that to walk in His call?4. Read Colossians 3:12-17. We are not the people of Israel, but God has called us as the church to live in a way that sets us apart and builds up the body of Christ. Where do you seeour church excelling and where might we need more work to fulfill the call Paul lays out for us in this passage?5. God asks for hard things from us sometimes, asking grown men to be circumcised in this passage is a good example of that. What do you sense is God's call on your life, in your community group and in our church that might be difficult but is worth the sacrifice?

Main Idea: "Because we have sinned a great sin like Israel, we too need a mighty intercessor."1. Israel's Idolatry (and ours)2. Aaron's self-justification (and ours)3. Moses's Intercession (and Christ's)

Joshua 4:1-24 | Ben Potloff | Do you have something that brings up memories or starts conversations with others? Maybe a tattoo, a scar, or something hanging up in the house that stands out from what you'd normally see in someone's house? We tend to put things out on display for ourselves but usually it catches the eyes of others and sometimes leads to discussions. For the Israelites, God had instructed twelve men, one from each tribe, to take up a stone from the riverbed of the Jordan and place it where they were to camp that night. Having witnessed a miraculous display of God's complete control over nature, God instructed Joshua to display a monument to be seen and cause people to ask, “What do those stones mean to you?” These stones were just stones, yet, when the children and later generations would see them, they would ask what they mean. “What do these represent?”MAIN IDEARemember what the Lord has done.OUTLINEI. The Lord's miracles reveal His might (vv. 23-24)II. The Lord's miracles are to be memorialized (vv. 1-22)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. The stones that were used as a memorial for the twelve tribes were from the bottom of the river, eroded, altered and unique from the stones on the banks and on land. How can you live your life altered, changed and unique from the world?2. The memorial of the twelve stones was for following generations to look upon and ask their parents what they meant. For parents, how can we cultivate and raise a godly household? For those who are not parents, how can we prepare ourselves for when that time comes?3. Joshua tells the Israelites that when their children ask about the stones they are to remind them of how the hand of the Lord is mighty and that they are to fear the Lord. What does this text and the Bible teach us about the fear of God? How does this fear comfort us?4. Knowing the purpose and significance of the ark, does the order in the events of which the ark moves have any meaning? What does this tell us about God?5. Read Luke 24:1-12. The Israelites were instructed to point their children to the stones as a memorial for what God had done for them. Reflect on the empty tomb and discuss what memorial that means for us 2000 years later.

Joshua 3:1-17 | Ben Potloff | Years of wandering are about to end. It is hard to imagine what's on the minds and the hearts of the people. You might remember Joshua had been to the Promised Land forty years earlier. As a spy he came back to Moses with a positive report and encouragement to go in and possess the land, only to be shouted down. The crowd won the day, with their fearful disobedience earning them exile in the desert until that generation's death. Joshua was a young man and now he is old. He is the new leader of God's chosen people. There would be many battles ahead. Strong leadership would be required. God would again remind Joshua that he was not alone. It was time to cross the Jordan.MAIN IDEAGod's presence gives confidence.OUTLINEI. God's holiness requires His people's holiness (vv. 1-6)II. God is the all-powerful Lord of all the earth (vv. 7-17)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Verse 1 says Joshua rose early in the morning. Do you have a preferred time to meet with God?2. Joshua called the people to prepare themselves to receive the promise of God. How do you prepare yourself to meet with God in daily devotions?3. What did the Ark represent to the people?4. The instructions for the priests and the people were specific and exact. Why do you think Joshua's instructions were so specific?5. Why do you think God reminded Joshua that He would be with Him?

FTCE 60 Sec Review: Finding the MAIN IDEA #ftce #readingstrategies Summary In this episode of FTCE Seminar, host Mercedes Musto discusses the FTCE General Knowledge Reading Subtest, focusing on key ideas and supporting details. The conversation explores how to identify the main idea of a text, common mistakes in understanding main ideas, and strategies for effective reading comprehension. Through examples, listeners learn to differentiate between main ideas and supporting details, and how to avoid pitfalls in selecting the correct main idea during the exam. Keywords FTCE, General Knowledge, Reading Subtest, key ideas, supporting details, main idea, teacher certification, reading strategies

Pastor: Jordan Hansen Series: Pray (3) Title: Thanksgiving Date: 2024.1.18+19 --------------------- CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Teaser 00:24 - Series 01:21 - Sermon (1) 01:55 - 21 Days 03:10 - Stories 03:51 - What If? 04:46 - Lucky Charms 05:16 - Rudy 05:34 - Pastor Josh 05:45 - Sermon (2) 10:02 - Point 1 13:21 - Point 2 16:20 - Point 3 22:06 - Point 4 31:50 - Point 5 33:11 - Testimony 39:08 - Main Idea 39:32 - Communion 44:08 - Closing --------------------- LINKS / RESOURCES:

Joshua 2:1-24 | Ben Potloff | Joshua 2 introduces us to someone, who is quite honestly, unexpected as someone God would use. Her name is Rahab. She is mentioned alongside towering figures of the faith such as Abraham, Moses, Noah, Gideon, and King David in Hebrews Chapter 11. How is this possible? Why is it so shocking and unexpected? It's surprising because Rahab is a prostitute. And almost every time her name is mentioned in the Bible she is known as Rahab the prostitute. Not a religious giant as you would expect but a person most people would be ashamed to be associated with. But God saw things differently. God saw a heart of faith and someone who believed in Him wholeheartedly.MAIN IDEAThe plea for mercy brings the hope of rescue. OUTLINEI. It is a fearful thing to oppose the one true God (vv. 1-11a, 24)II. The Lord abounds in love for those who fear Him (vv. 11b-23)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. What are your thoughts on Rahab lying to the men who came to capture the spies?2. Seeing who God used to protect the spies, how can Rahab's life be an encouragement to you in your walk with the Lord?3. Rahab is mentioned three times in the New Testament, Matthew 1-1-5, Hebrews 11:29-31, and James 2:25. Discuss what these verses say about Rahab and why are they important for us?4. Do you find it significant that Rahab was so concerned about her family and their safety in Joshua 12-14? Why? Are you surprised by it?5. What are your thoughts on what Rahab says about God in Joshua 2:8-11. Why is her using “LORD' in 2:8, 10, and 11 so significant? Why is LORD capitalized in our Bible in these verses? Is this at all surprising to you that she uses that name when describing God?

In this first chapter of Joshua, God calls Joshua to lead the people into the land, the land he has given them. But it will take strength, courage, and commitment to follow God's law as well as trust that God is with them always. The Israelites will need this as they conquer the land.MAIN IDEAThe promise of God gives the courage to obey. OUTLINEI. God is faithful and keeps His promises (vv. 1-4, 6) II. Confidence in God's plan comes from the promise of God's presence (vv. 5, 9)III. True success requires obedience to God's Word (vv. 7-8, 10-18)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Joshua 1 begins “after the death of Moses.” What was the relationship between Joshua and Moses? How might Joshua be feeling at this moment? How are we inclined to respond to a season of grief? How do we move forward from it?2. How has God prepared Joshua to assume leadership over the Israelites and to lead them into the Promised Land? How has God prepared you for the work He has called you to do? How can your group pray for and encourage you?3. Throughout this passage, the Lord repeatedly tells Joshua, “Be strong and courageous.” What does it mean to be “strong”? What does it mean to be “courageous”? What does it look like for us today?4. Part of God's command to Moses was to be “careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you,” and that Joshua should “meditate on it day and night” then he would be prosperous and have good success (v. 7b-8). We are also called to follow God's law. What did Jesus say were the greatest commandments (see Mt. 22:37-40)? How do we live that out in our daily lives?5. God promises that He will be with Joshua wherever he goes (Joshua 1:9b). As Christians, we have this same promise: “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20b). In what ways do you experience the truth of this promise? How does it empower us to move forward in faith?6. What of the Lord's words to Joshua do you need to take to heart? How can you pray for one another specifically?

John 9:1-41 | Ben Potloff | "Jesus said, 'For judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and those who see may become blind'" (v. 39). Some of the sayings of Jesus can be difficult for sinful human beings to understand and—often—even harder to accept. However, the idea of judgment is critical to understanding the person and work of Jesus Christ. For the one who trusts in Christ, there is great hope in the final Judge.MAIN IDEAJesus came to make the blind see.OUTLINEI. Pain is not punishment or purposeless, but is a platform that displays God's power (vv. 1-7) II. Rejecters of Jesus are blind and guilty, believers in Jesus have light and life (vv. 8-41)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. What stands out to you in this passage? Why?2. What is difficult to understand or accept in this passage? How does your natural—and sinful—self want to push against the words of Jesus?3. What hope is there for sinners facing a judge like Christ?4. How does this passage give you a richer understanding of the person and work of Jesus?5. How does this passage call you to live differently?

Any time we teach our students something, we need to check to see how well they learned it. If we only do this check at the very end, after all the teaching is done, and we find that our students haven't learned the material, it's too late to do anything about it. That's why we really need to do formative assessment — checking along the way — so if there are problems, we can fix them. In this episode, we're talking about five important things we need to do to make sure we get formative assessment right. Joining me are two people who really understand what works in education: The Marshall Memo's master curator Kim Marshall, and Jenn David-Lang, the mind behind The Main Idea. Together they have published the Best of the Marshall Memo website, a fantastic, free collection of the best ideas in education. Thanks to Scholastic Magazines+ and Listenwise for sponsoring this episode. For a full transcript of this episode, visit cultofpedagogy.com/pod and choose episode 236.