Shows
BibleSFRevelations: The Hope. God's Plan for His People Lesson 7 (HQ Global Lecture)What happens to people who don't have a plan or road map for their lives? How is a good life, a deeply meaningful life tied to having an understanding of one's purpose within God's plan. Today, we're looking at why God specifies the plans and the promises He outlines in the Bible for His people. God assures us that His promises are True and Never Fails. We can rest assured that despite the passing of history, cacophonous events of noisy humanity, and the roller-coaster ride of our individual lives, God has called us to be faithfully living into His...
2024-10-2926 minBibleSFRevelation: Jesus's Letter to the Churches, Part 3. Rev 3:7-22 (HQ Global Lecture)Does Jesus care what's going on in the Church? What might He have to say about believers in our generation? How does suffering for Christ produce in believers strength and hope? Contrastly, how does a lukewarm church remain so complacent and self-righteous, it fails to understand its own position, be self-reflective and repentent?
Doctrine: Works
Aim: CATL…Jesus assures the steadfast and warns the self-sufficient.
I. The Steadfast Church (3:7-13)
A. Jesus: His Person (3:7)
B. Jesus: His Perspective (3:8)
Doctrine v. 8
C. Jesus: His Pr...
2024-10-2326 minBibleSFRevelation, Jesus's Letter to the Churches Pt2 Lesson 5Revelation 2:12-3:6
Does the Church need to be overly anxious about heresies and heretics? What does God do with the occults and false religions? God is a faithful Father who will retain the fidelity of His Faithful Children to the end. He will always have Lampstands ready throughout the world, trimmed and bright among His people and angels who are His divinely directly and managed messengers that He holds in His grasp which He sends to teach, admonish, and strengthen His Church. When the Lampstand is removed, He removes it for a reason.
Rev 2:12-3:6...
2024-10-1632 minBibleSFRevelation Mini Reflection - ch2:1-11 addendumWhat does it mean to forsake your first love?
Why does God allow suffering among His people - faithful ones like John the Baptist, the prophets of the OT, and even the Apostles and early church believers? What does it achieve?
We will reflect on these as it applies to us today.
2024-10-1009 minBibleSFJesus's Letters to the Churches, Part 1 Revelation 2:1-11. Lesson 4Jesus's Letters to the Churches, Part 1 Revelation 2:1-11
Why does Jesus tell the Ephesian Church they had forsaken their first love. What is a first love and how might it matter for our relationship with Christ? Today, we explore issues that appear at first quite small but can have consequential and detrimental impact on the witness and power of the Church to testify of Christ.
Aim: CATL Christ offers all we need for persevering patiently as His faithful Church in a hostile world
I. Loving God with...
2024-10-0930 minBibleSFRevelations (1:1-20) Lesson 3: The Exalted Christ RevealedRevelation 1 is an entirely new depiction of Christ than we last saw Him. Jesus meek and mild? Hanging on the Cross despised and forsaken? No, Here is Jesus who overcame and conquered death and hell for all the Redeemed Ones of God. Here is Christ terrifying and awe-inspiring, declaring that He is Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. The One who was, and is, and is to come, who not only controls our destiny but is the only One, God Almighty, who has absolute power to leads us into a glorious future of worship and purpose in...
2024-10-0239 minBibleSFBSF Global Lecture: God's Glorious Consummation Lesson 2Lesson 2: God's Glorious Consummation.
What does it mean that God fulfills all His Promises in Jesus Christ? Remember that consummation comes from the union of the Latin Con + Summa, the bringing together of everything. That's Jesus. If we ever wondered what God's doing in the world, we can know for certainty by the Words and Works of Christ Himself and all that He said He will do.
Focus Verse
“Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is...
2024-09-2530 minBibleSFRevelation: Lesson 1 (BSF HQ Lecture Talk audio)Revelation: Lesson 1
Prophecy: The Telling and Foretelling of God's Story
Focus Verse
“For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:21)
Outline
Prophecy’s Characteristics
Prophecy for God’s People
Prophecy of Messiah
Doctrine: Fulfillment of Prophecy
2024-09-1724 minBibleSFGospel of John Lesson 29 Final Overview Global LectureGospel of John Final Overview and Debrief
We're in our final week of looking back on all that the Holy Spirit has taught us through this remarkable study on the Gospel of John. As you think about the project of writing the Apostle John had in writing to us about Jesus and His Gospel with the constraints he was working with, the size of scrolls, the ink available, the portability of it to the churches, what concerns and questions would he had wanted to address to the early Church and the new believers being brought by the...
2024-04-3029 minBibleSFJohn's Epilogue - "What is that to you? You Must Follow Me" Lesson 28 John 21John's Epilogue - What is that to you? You Must Follow Me Lesson 29 John 21
When we don't understand the Vision, we languish in our devotion and everything goes downhill from there. Jesus cared about our reconciliation with God. Being reconciled to God meaning becoming full members in His Kingdom purposes by fulling claiming the Vision He has shared with us. Wonder what happens when vision lives or when vision dies in the life of a believer? Listen in and see how this has activated the lives of the early Church and how vitally important Christ's vision is...
2024-04-2532 minBibleSFJesus's Resurrection Lesson 27 John 20Jesus's Resurrection Lesson 27, John 20
For many Christians, the Resurrection of Jesus is nothing more than a nice event, surrounded by the pastel colorings and cute images of Easter bunnies and candy. Fewer believers really appreciate that the whole of Christianity hinges on this most vital event in history when Jesus rose from the grave, conquering death, and continuing His victorious march to the fulfillment of the Kingdom of God. Today. we are going to explore John 20's account of the Resurrection and talk about what has been accomplished by Jesus's Resurrection.
Divisions1. Discovery of the E...
2024-04-1734 minBibleSFThe Burial of Jesus Christ Lesson 26. John 19:31-42The Burial of Jesus Christ John 19:31-42
Did you know that all the elements of Bible prophecy, everything that God was communicating to humanity is bound up in Jesus's laying down His life to be the perfect Atonement for all humanity's most insidious problem. Today, we're looking at the 11 important verses around His burial - and how they point to significant details of God's great plans that includes you and me.
Doctrine: Humanity: Fall and Judgment
Attribute: Savior
AIM: CATL that the God of details reveals how even...
2024-04-1027 minBibleSFThe Crucifixion of Jesus Christ Lesson 25, John 19:17-30The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ Lesson 25, John 19:17-30
Why did Jesus have to die on the cross? Why do Christians think of this event as the center of all human history infused with so much meaning and purpose? Isn't the cross by Romans a defeat and utter failure? How is this a moment of God's great deliverance and conquest for humanity? We'll look at these questions and more on this most important of all events in Jesus's Life which Christians celebrate the world over on Anastasis Day.
Aim: The Gift of Jesus...
2024-04-0335 minBibleSFFrom Pilate to the Cross - Jesus Suffers for Our Transgressions and Sins Lesson 24 John 18:28-19:16From Pilate to the Cross - Jesus Suffers for Our Transgressions and Sins
Lesson 24 John 18:28-19:16
Why does the matter for you? If we don't have truth, we can't have much confidence on which to live a purposeful and meaningful life. That is why Jesus clearly tells us that He is the Truth that leads to life. He is explicit and He is clear. Then what does this mean practically? Today, we will study the passage in John where Pilate and Jews confront this very question about truth and what they are willing to do...
2024-03-2832 minBibleSFLesson 24 BSF Global Lecture John 18:39–19:16BSF Global Lecture provided by BSF HQ
The local lecture will be provided Wednesday to replace this one.
2024-03-2724 minBibleSFJesus's Arrest and Jewish Trials, John 18:1-27 Lesson 23Jesus's Arrest and Jewish Trials John 18:1-27
In this time of Lenten, the Church tries to subtract and declutter our hearts and minds to think about the central event in all Human History when God's Son, Jesus made His way to the Cross to die for our sins. Today, we're looking at what this substitutionary death of Jesus means in the context of God's Promise, His Covenant spoken through His prophets that He would send a Savior to rescue and deliver us from our ruin, death, and despair.
Intro- Deliver Us! Prince of Egypt- Sung...
2024-03-2136 minBibleSFBSF Lesson 23 John 18:1-27 - BSF Global Lecture
This is a Global Lecture provided by BSF's HQ.
The local lecture will be uploaded on Wednesday at noon.
2024-03-2024 minBibleSFJesus’s Intimate Prayer to His Father John 17 Lesson 22Jesus’s Intimate Prayer to His Father John 17. BSF Lesson 22
If you were about to die, what would be your parting words? Would it be about how to distribute your inheritance, what to do about your possessions, or how to take care of your burial? Today, we read what Jesus said in His prayer before His imminent crucifixion. He prayed for God's glory, for his disciples, and for all His followers who would know Jesus by their testimony. Jesus prayed a triumphant prayer knowing a Kingdom was born by His Atonement on the Cross.
Doctrine: Pr...
2024-03-1436 minBibleSFThe Holy Spirit's Ministry John 15:26- 16:33. BSF Lesson 21The Holy Spirit's Ministry John 15:26- 16:33.
The work of the Holy Spirit is not often talked about or explained in the modern church. This week, we are looking at Jesus's promise of the Holy Spirit and how the Holy Spirit enables us to move forward in the vibrant discipleship and sanctification in our spiritual maturation that only He can undertake for us.
Look at the five "He will" statements from Jesus as He describes what the Holy Spirit will do in verses 13-15:
1. He will guide you into all truth
2. He...
2024-02-2832 minBibleSF"Union with Christ" BSF Global Lecture Lesson 20This podcast is a global lecture provided by BSF International. The local San Francisco Regional podcast will be provided on Wednesday afternoon.
Lesson 20 Scripture: John 15:1-25, Union with Christ
The Doctrine of the Church
Focus Verse
“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.” (John 15:5)
Outline
● The Vine and the Branches – John 15:1-17
● The Hatred of the World – John 15:18-25
2024-02-2127 minBibleSFJesus Promises the Holy Spirit. John 14:14-31 Lesson 19Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit. John 14:14-31 Lesson 19
Big Idea/ Aim: The Holy Spirit transforms believers from the inside out
How do you understand the role of the Holy Spirit? Who is He and how does He work in our lives as believers? Jesus tells us that He will not leave us as orphans, that He will send the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, and the Spirit of Jesus.
Divisions:
I. Jesus promised Life Transforming Knowledge (John 14:15-21)
II. Jesus explained Life Transforming Loving Obedience (John 14:22-26)
...
2024-02-1433 minBibleSFJesus Announces His Departure and Return Lecture 18 John 13:31- 14:14Jesus Announces His Departure and Return Lesson 18 John 13:31- 14:14
Doctrine: The second coming of Christ
Attribute: Glorious
Aim: Jesus’s words of truth speak comfort to troubled hearts. Jesus will return to claim His people.
Divisions:
I. Jesus is glorified by the Love He demonstrates from the Father. (John 13:31-38)
II. Jesus is the hope of a glorious future in God’s Kingdom for every believer. (John 14:1-14)
Subject sentence: Jesus prepares His troubled disciples with comforting truth and promises.
Principles:
Jesus...
2024-02-0733 minBibleSFJesus Washes His Disciples Feet - John 13:1-30, Lesson 17Jesus Washes His Disciples Feet - John 13:1-30, Lesson 17
Have you washed someone's feet before? What is Jesus teaching us here through his last teaching meeting with the disciples, around the Lord's Supper before He ascends to the Cross. What did Jesus want us to do as His Kingdom people?
AIM: God is glorified through his servants' sacrificial love for others.
Divisions:
1. God's Glorious Love Revealed 13:1-17
2. God's Glorious Love Rejected 13:18-30
Principle 1: Jesus' sacrificial love reveals God's glory to the world.
Principle 2: Rejecting God's...
2024-01-3138 minBibleSFJesus's Anointing and Arrival into Jerusalem John 12 Lesson 16Jesus's Anointing and Arrival into Jerusalem John 12 Lesson 16
We read this week about Mary's anointing Jesus's feet with her hair. Her humble and worshipful posture contrasts with Judas's stingy regret and false rationale that the money spent on the perfume could have been used for the poor. Judas cared little for the poor. As a keeper of the moneybag, he was thinking of himself and had little interest in the things of Jesus aside from what he could get out of it. So much of the Church lives these way: one feet wanting to follow Jesus but...
2024-01-2435 minBibleSFJesus Raises Lazarus from the Death. John 11 Lesson 15Lazarus is Raised from the Death. John 11 Lesson 15
John 11 tells us about the Resurrection power of Jesus over death and His divine ability to give us new life. Jesus is the God we have always read about in the Old Testament who made the world (Heb1) and everything in it. He is the exact representation of the Father, glorious in manifesting to all creation the wondrous nature of God the Father. This is the Trinitarian concept that most Christians have a weak grasp of. In John 1:18, John reminds us as part of his Thesis statement that "No...
2024-01-1737 minBibleSFJesus, the Good Shepherd John 10 BSF Lesson 14Jesus, the Good Shepherd John 10 BSF Lesson 14
Read Psalm chp 23 in conjunction with this important study. Jesus says He is the Good Shepherd. David prophesied about the Messiah, the Son of God and described Him in very unique ways, by terms and analogies like this that the world has never heard of God being described in before. After listening to this lecture, explain for yourself what a Shepherding God means?
AIM: Jesus the perfect shepherd loves, leads, and guards His sheep now and eternally.
I. The True Shepherd John 10:1-10
a...
2024-01-1037 minBibleSFJesus and the Man Born Blind, John 9 Lesson 13Jesus and the Man Born Blind, John 9 BSF Lesson 13
Why does God allow some people to be born to very difficult circumstances? What can we learn from a person who seem to be the least kind of person we can learn anything really positive from? Jesus teaches us that our beliefs about what constitutes a life that God can and will use is totally wrong. Why might Jesus use mud made from spit to undertake this healing? And what might this mean for our faith walk with God in the Holy Spirit.
Divisions:
...
2023-12-2038 minBibleSFJesus: The Light of the World, John 8Jesus: The Light of the World, John 8 BSF Lesson 12
Nobody ever made the claims Jesus did. But He backed up everything He said by the powerful works and truth He gave from the Father. Jesus said He is the Light f the World. Everyone who follows Him will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life. John 8:12. Light is elusive in our world and we are very familiar with what darkness does in our lives. Read what Jesus claims He will do if we only will believe everything God promised through His Messiah.
2023-12-1341 minBibleSFJesus at the Feast of Tabernacles John 7, Lesson 11Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles John 7
BSF Lesson 11
As people totally consumed by the world, it is hard for us to see God with clarity. People find it hard to read the Bible and understand Jesus's words because their own personal biases and worldly assumptions muddy their ability to see things from God's perspective as God explains through Jesus His Son. In this lesson, we will see how a worldly perspective of the Sabbath and holy festivals makes even the most religious and academically trained people in the Levitical Laws, the Pharisees, completely miss...
2023-12-0636 minBibleSFJesus the Bread of Life part 2, John 6:41-71. Lesson 10Gospel of John Chp 6: 41-71 BSF Lesson 10
Jesus, the Bread of Life Part 2
Jesus said He was the Bread of Life by which people would have everlasting life. That's an astounding claim to make. Join us to learn more about what Jesus meant about His being the Manna that came down from heaven and why this is vitally important to the Christian life in Christ.
I. Jesus’ Claim Explains (John 6:41-59)
A. His claim as a spiritual food to our most essential need (v41-42)
B. His reply to ou...
2023-11-2938 minBibleSFJesus: The Bread of Life, part 1. John 6:22-40 Lesson 9BSF Lesson 9 John 6:22-40
Jesus: The Bread of Life, part 1
We live in a world that trains people in the art of bargaining, negotiating, haggling and manipulating to get people to do things in their favor. We are so good at it, the bargaining attitude and impulse shows up in our approach and relationship with God. If God could be manipulated by the ways you can shape and mold Him into your wishes and wants, would He really be God? Jesus refuses to be the materialistic ruler and messiah of other people's making. Today, we...
2023-11-1437 minBibleSFJohn 6, Jesus Feeding of the 5000: Two Signs at the Sea of Galilee, Lesson 8Jesus Feeding of the 5000: Two Signs at the Sea of Galilee
BSF Lesson 8 John 6:1-21
Did you know that the account of Jesus's feeding of the 5000+ is the only miraculous sign recorded by all four Gospels? Perhaps there's something a very important message here that God wants us not to miss. That's what we're going to get to the bottom of in this lesson. We'll see by the end of this lesson that the most gracious work of God in this scene is not about feeding stomachs as much as it was revealing their worst...
2023-11-0831 minBibleSFJohn 5 A Sabbath Healing Lesson 7John 5 A Sabbath Healing
The body for many is central to their happiness. People believe that the body is the basis by which we gain our sense of self and identity, happiness and contentment, such that a skewed view makes people neglect the inner person in place of a singular focus on their body image. Today, we are looking at the One who has the Authority to give us that True Life. He is not only the Creator of our bodies, but the redeemer of our fallen and corrupted souls. He has the power and authority to...
2023-11-0136 minBibleSFJesus's Journey from Samaria to Galilee, John 4:31-54 Lesson 6John 4:31-54
Jesus's Journey from Samaria to Galilee, BSF Lesson 6
What can’t you live without?
Have you had times when you’ve declared that you couldn’t live without something. People think they can’t live without a lot of things. But increasingly so, people are becoming more and more convinced that they can live without God. When was the last time you heard someone say: I can’t live without God in my life, I can’t live without Jesus like the very food and water I depend on to live and thrive...
2023-10-2539 minBibleSFThe Samaritan Woman at the Well John 4:1-30, Lesson 5The Samaritan Woman at the Well John 4:1-30
BSF Lesson 5 Gospel of John
Here's a story of a woman who's been trying to fill the deep longing and desires of her heart with husbands. We all have "husbands," and they all leave us dry and empty. Jesus is confronting us with a problem that we all have and go about trying to fill, restless with a sense of meaninglessness, purposelessness, and emptiness. “If you drink from this water… you’ll be thirsty again, and again, and again. Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again...
2023-10-1836 minBibleSFJesus, Nicodemus, and John the Baptist, Lesson 4BSF Study in John 3 (Lesson 4)
Jesus, Nicodemus, and John the Baptist
What did Nicodemus come to confer with Jesus at night? What did he want to know? Join us as we explore one of the most important conversations in John's Gospel that point us to what it is to have true life meaning and purpose.
Divisions:
I. Jesus explains the new birth to Nicodemus. (John 3:1-15)
P1: Jesus invites all to believe in Him and receive eternal life.
II. Jesus came to save the world. (John 3:16-21)
2023-10-1135 minBibleSFJohn 2: The Wedding at Cana, Water to Wine, and the Temple Cleansing at Passover, Lesson 3BSF Lesson 3 in the Gospel of John
John 2, The Wedding at Cana, Water to Wine and the Temple Cleansing at Passover
Why does John bother to tell us about Jesus’s visit to a wedding? Is it because Jesus liked celebrations or that this particular wedding had a particularly spectacular miracle that Jesus did? Probably not. I’m not sure if you are aware of this but the truths about God’s love for us is often taught to us using the imagery of marriage, the bride and bridegroom.
Today we'll take a deep d...
2023-10-0437 minBibleSFJohn the Baptist's Witness and the First Disciples Lesson 2Passage: John 1:19-51
Why did God choose to use a harbinger or herald of Jesus's arrival with John the Baptist? Couldn't Jesus just come to His people without a herald? Today, we'll take a look at this question and many others we often take for granted. To whet your thinking, remember that John is the last of the long line of important prophets of the Old Testament. Furthermore, he is the final and most important prophet to point directly to Jesus and describe to us what The Messiah will do. By doing so, John the Baptist makes...
2023-09-2737 minBibleSFGospel of John 1: 1-18, Lesson 1Gospel of John 1: 1-18, Lesson 1
As you may know, scholars believe that John’s Gospel was written last of the four Gospels. So John has probably read the other circulating Gospels and was well familiar with their accounts and didn't want to be redundant to what was already shared about Jesus. John's objective takes an entirely different approach: to add clarity and certainty to the identity of Yeshua as God's promised Messiah. New members of the church which started to include many non-Jews needed a careful explanation of Jesus as the Messiah the prophets all spoke of, in...
2023-09-2039 minBibleSFJohn's Gospel: BSF IntroductionGospel of John: Overview and Main Theme
Guest Presenter: Hollie Roberts, Executive Director of BSF
Hollie serves as BSF’s Executive Director. Before joining the BSF staff in 2018, she served as a Children’s Leader, Group Leader, and Teaching Leader. Hollie and her husband, Kevin, have served and participated in BSF together for most of their adult lives. Their children and now their grandchildren are growing up in the BSF children’s program. Hollie’s passion is to see the BSF fourfold approach to reading and studying God’s Word contribute to generations of men, women, and...
2023-09-1229 minBibleSFOld Testament Minor Prophets: God's Ways are Glorious past, present, and futureOld Testament Minor Prophets (BSF Lesson 29)
Final Reflections:
This lesson is about reflecting on the comprehensive work of God through Israel and the Prophets He had sent them. People are "losing the plot" to the larger divine narrative for existence. Today, we'll see how losing the plot God has described in the Scriptures leads to existential uncertainty and loss. God has revealed Himself and made His purposes clearly known. Join us for the next half hour as we reflect on the power of God's Word in preparing His people for His Kingdom.
2023-05-0330 minBibleSFHabakkuk - Conversation with GodHabakkuk - Conversation with God
Sometimes it's challenging praying to God when things don't make sense. But those are the very times, we need God the most. Habakkuk is a prayer in Judah's most precarious moments before they are exiled. He asks questions we all often ask: God are you there? Do you see what's going on? Why are you taking so long to execute justice? In this lesson, we'll look at these questions and discuss ways we can renew our thinking rooted in faith and hope in a Sovereign God who says He does care more...
2023-04-2633 minBibleSFBook of Lamentations: Poetic Expressions of Painful LossBook of Lamentations: Poetic Expressions of Painful Loss
The book of Lamentations is another book you won't understand unless you understood the context of Israel's history at the time it was written. It is believed by most scholars that Lamentations was written by Jeremiah the "weeping" prophet who despite being persecuted and harangued for most of his prophetic ministry, bewailed the travails of Judah under the conquest of the ruthless Babylonian army around 586 BC. Lamentations derives its name from the Talmud which uses a word meaning dirge, elegy or wailings. The Hebrew title for the book uses...
2023-04-1934 minBibleSFJeremiah part 2: Judgment, Restoration, and the New CovenantJeremiah part 2: Judgment, Restoration, and the New Covenant
2023-04-1233 minBibleSFJeremiah Part 1: Ministry and MessageJeremiah Part 1: Ministry and Message
Jeremiah is the longest recorded prophetic book in the Old Testament. He is rightly nicknamed the “weeping prophet” not only because he suffered so much persecution, rejection, and animosity from the people he desperately tried to witness to, he also lived through some of the most tragic periods of national ruin, cultural decline, and conquest that led to the complete destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of Judeans into the Babylonian Empire. He wept over his spiritually callous and careless countrymen but continued to patiently speak God’s Words of truth to his fin...
2023-04-0542 minBibleSFNahum and Zephaniah – God’s Purifying Judgment and Promised RestorationNahum and Zephaniah – God’s Purifying Judgment and Promised Restoration
Readings: Nahum and Zephaniah
History is a glossary of failed social and political experiments on human stewardship and governance. The prophets Nahum and Zephaniah remind us that as much as the empires of man can be good, they’re woefully broken and corrupt at their core, doing much more damage to countless numbers of people than we rightly understand. This point is often easy to miss when most of us are enjoying the middle class life busy in our consumptive lifestyles. Nahum and Zephaniah are a reali...
2023-03-2936 minBibleSFMicah - God's Justice and Mercy as Our StandardMicah - God's Justice and Mercy as Our Standard
Micah’s name means “Who is like Yahweh?” which is significant in that Micah’s ministry tries to explain what God is like to a people who are busy enjoying the world and have long since abandoned an interest in the ways of God for their lives.
Micah prophesied during the reigns of the Judean kings Jotham (750-732 B.C.), Ahaz (732-715 B.C.), and Hezekiah (715-686 B.C.). This was a period of plenty and prosperity but also a time of rampant social injustice, decadence, and want...
2023-03-2241 minBibleSFMicah - God's Justice and Mercy as Our StandardMicah - God's Justice and Mercy as Our Standard BSF Lesson 23
Check the Bible Study Fellowship App for the lesson plan for follow along. All resources are free.
Micah’s name means “Who is like Yahweh?” which is significant in that Micah’s ministry tries to explain what God is like to a people who are busy enjoying the world and have long since abandoned an interest in the ways of God for their lives.
Micah prophesied during the reigns of the Judean kings Jotham (750-732 B.C.), Ahaz (732-715 B.C.), and Hezekiah...
2023-03-2241 minBibleSFWhy Suffering: God's Handiwork in the Hard Seasons of LifeWhy Suffering: God's Handiwork in the Hard Seasons of Life
BSF Lesson 22 has us reflect on the presence of suffering in our lives. Why does God allow suffering and why do good people suffer? What is the purpose of suffering and how should we as Christians live with suffering in our lives?
Nobody asks for suffering, but suffering comes. Suffering reveals things we had not been aware of. My college roommate wisely said to me once: you don’t know what’s in your cup until you’re bumped. That image stuck with me. You see, m...
2023-03-1538 minBibleSFIsaiah Part4: The Suffering Servant and His Coming GloryIsaiah Part4: The Suffering Servant and His Coming Glory
Passage: Isaiah 49-66
The book of Isaiah speaks long, frequently and repeatedly about the reasons for exile, judgment, and the coming deliverance. The final chapters talk about the great Hope of God that they can look forward to. Isaiah speaks triumphantly about God’s deliverance with words like “Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save." What does this mean? "The Arm of the Lord” is the image of the efficacious and powerful will of God.
But His powerful "Arm" - His M...
2023-03-0141 minBibleSFIsaiah, part 3 Chapters 40-48: The Deliverance of God's PeopleIsaiah, part 3 Chapters 40-48
The Deliverance of God's People
It is said that you can learn a lot about a person by asking them about their view of God. What they think and know about God will affect their understanding about themselves, their self worth, their life purpose and reason for existence, and their future. It is with this understanding that western academic traditions centered their learning around a theology department. The knowing of God enabled the architecture for life. A person’s theology will inevitably involve their view of Christ, the Messiah, the study of...
2023-02-2240 minBibleSFIsaiah Part 2, Just Judgment, Message of HopeOur guest lecturer today is Hollie Roberts, the President of Bible Study Fellowship (since 6/2021).
We're continuing in our study of Isaiah, reviewing chps 1-39. Isaiah is referenced or alluded to over 400 times in the New Testament, and has 21 direct quotations. Jesus teaches directly from the Book of Isaiah when speaking of His identity as the promised Messiah described by the prophet. The name of Isaiah, son of Amoz, is the online one connected with the authorship of this book and is one of the key ancient texts found completely intact among the Dead Sea scrolls in the...
2023-02-1436 minBibleSFIsaiah: Mission and Message. Part 1 in Isaiah StudyIsaiah: Mission and Message. Part 1 in the Study of the Book of Isaiah
We know Jesus held the book of Isaiah in high esteem because Isaiah taught the Jews about Himself. In this lesson, we'll explore Isaiah and his calling. We'll look Isaiah's holy vision of God sovereign and greatly lifted up. We'll also look at the broken and defiled nation he was prophesying into.
Isaiah’s ministry took place under four Judean kings - in the final years leading up to the prophesied judgment on Judah in their exile into Babylon. Isaiah laments the fa...
2023-02-0837 minBibleSFJudah's Path into Exile: The Judgment that was generations in the makingJudah's Path into Exile / covering Manasseh, Amon, Josiah
2 Kings 21-25 and 2 Chronicles 33-36
Judah's exile did not happen by some sudden judgment of God; it was years and generations in the making with many warnings given by God through many many different prophets by various means of illustrating an idolatrous and rebellious people. God has shown mercy to Israel and Judah time and again but both divided nations showed that even with prosperity, protection, and pleasures they enjoyed, their hearts continuously wandered from God.
In this lesson, we'll take a look at the...
2023-02-0138 minBibleSFIsrael's Exile into Assyria and Judah's Reforms under HezekiahIsrael’s Exile and Judah’s Reforms
2 Kings 15–20; 2 Chronicles 26–32
In order to grow up, we have to clean up. In this lecture talk, we're looking at the period of the kings right before Israel's exile into the Assyrian Empire, and King Hezekiah's dramatic spiritual reform in Judah during which God rescues them from a similar fate. We see bad kings who lead into bad worship or defiled worship of idols, falling eagerly into the pagan practices of the nations around them. Good kings were unwilling or unable to correct the people’s derelict and false notions of...
2023-01-2540 minBibleSFHosea - God: The Faithful Husband, His Redemptive LoveHosea - God's Redemptive Love
The Prophet Hosea is very unique mission among the prophets as he was called to marry a woman prone to adultery. The unfolding drama of Hosea's marriage to his promiscuous wife would become a living witness - a heartbreaking drama - to God's people of their abandonment of God’s love.
Hosea's prophetic message was lived out as a public exhibition that will break his own heart. This life of heart-break would give him access to peer into the broken heart of God, also into the wisdom of God in wa...
2023-01-1837 minBibleSFJoel and Obadiah - Hope amid JudgmentProphets Joel and Obadiah - Hope amid Judgment BSF Lesson 14
Passage: The Old Testament Prophetic Books of Joel and Obadiah
Judgement is a difficult concept. We don't like to be judged and the current cultural ethos around any kind of judgment makes it seem cruel and unfair. The Bible teaches us that God must judge because God is just. If we believed that he shouldn't judge evil and wickedness for all the devastation and destruction it causes, how loving would we be to allow such harm to fall on mankind?
God is just an...
2023-01-1133 minBibleSFProphet Amos - Upholding God's JusticeAmos - Upholding God's Justice / BSF PPKD Lesson 13
Amos is a book about judgment,a topic most of us would rather avoid. It’s like that uncomfortable feeling of being in the room when dad is giving my brother a scolding knowing I am next.
The prophets wrote to us about judgment because it is one of the most critical and important messages in the Bible, and the reason Christ came to die for us. Judgment follows because God cares about justice. Can you imagine what would happen in world where justice didn't exist and pe...
2023-01-0437 minBibleSFJonah, the Reluctant ProphetJonah, the Reluctant Prophet - BSF PPKD Lesson 12
Passage Reading: Jonah 1-4
Does obeying God really matter? Does it matter if I submit to God's will or rebuff and run away from it? How can my little life make any difference in the larger scheme of things. And why should I be happy about God's grace and mercy with the deplorable peoples of the world. Shouldn't they get their just desserts?
Today, we have the un-prophet, the prophet who was a prophet in name but didn’t behave as a prophet should. He ra...
2022-12-1439 minBibleSFGod Speaks: Old Testament Prophecy and ProphetsOur Lecture on Lesson 11 PPKD today is presented by Dr David Talley, Talbot School Of Theology, who gives us an overview of God's ministry through prophets. He explains who prophets are, what their work entailed, and how to distinguish true from false prophets.
Passage readings: Amos 3:7; 2 Chronicles 36:15; Romans 15:4
The outline of his talk is as follows:
3 Kinds of Prophets Found In The Bible
1) Prophets whose messages were not recorded
2) Prophets whose messages are preserved in a book of the Bible
3) False prophets whose messages were self- serving a...
2022-12-0732 minBibleSFA Covenant Keeping God, Elisha, and the Failure of Many KingsLesson 10 A Promise / Covenant Keeping God, Elisha, and Many Kings
Passage: 2 Kings 6:8–14:29; 2 Chronicles 21–25
Doctrine: God's Covenant
God cares about His Covenant but the Israelite kings failed to understand God's will for the nation as a witness to the nations and empires around them. They showed little desire to bring Israel in alignment to God's greater plan. Despite this, God continued to make his grace and mercy available to the kings and the entire profligate nation because He was committed to His Covenant with made with them through the patriarchs. Today, we're going to look...
2022-11-2345 minBibleSFGod's Miracles Through Elisha Reveal the Root Problems We Ignore 2 Kings 4:1- 6:7Elisha's Miracles Demonstrating God's Compassion to Ordinary People
Passage: 2 Kings 4:1- 6:7
Have you ever thought about just how quickly we would all fall into utter despair and hopelessness if it wasn’t for the reality of God’s love and presence in Jesus? I look at the utter despair of the wise writer of Ecclesiastes who had everything a man could want and he concluded, "Vanity vanity, all is vanity." Reflect on the pagan Moabite king from last week who was so much in despair, he sacrifice his living first born son to a false idol...
2022-11-1640 minBibleSF2 Kings 2-3 Elijah and Elisha, Chariot of Fire and Return to God's MinistryPPKD Lession 8: Elijah and Elisha
2 Kings 2-3
What would happen if God reacted to our grave mistakes and shortcomings the way we wish every sin and evil in the world would be immediately eradicated as soon as they happen? We would be in ignorance of many important truths. We would not know the character of His grace. We never know how truly detestable and horrific sin was and why God cared so much about sin's hold of our lives. We could never appreciate what Jesus came to do to atone for and save us from...
2022-11-0939 minBibleSFJehoshaphat's Reign in Judah - Obedience and CompromisesJehoshaphat's Reign in Judah - Obedience and Compromises
Lecture 7
Why is idolatry such a hateful sin in the Bible? Why does it keep coming up again and again, and the kings keep falling into it as if they're totally unaware of its dangers?
We'll see in this lesson how idolatry causes a deep distortion in our sense of purpose and view of ourselves. And most importantly, it erodes our knowledge of God and His heart.
Imagine then what idolatry can do today when sin’s disordering work invades and corrupts the wo...
2022-11-0240 minBibleSFIsrael's Kings: Turning Away from God 1 Kings 22-2 Kings 1Israel's Kings: Turning Away from God
1 Kings 22 - 2 Kings 2
Are leaders important? Are you a leader? What kind of ripple effect do you have on those around you?Today we’re looking at God’s persevering patience and grace on Israel’s defiant leaders, king Ahab and his successor Ahaziah. Leaders play an important role in society. They create archetypes of the kind of models that we aspire to imitate and emulate. Leaders are stewards of power so they can practice just and good decisions, set public policy that orders right and good relationships in societ...
2022-10-2639 minBibleSFElijah's Crisis, Israel's Calamity 1 Kings 19-21PPKD Lesson 5 Elijah's Crisis, Israel's Calamity. 1 Kings 19-21
Why is God so gracious so that bad people don't immediately get the judgment they deserved?
Elijah saw the power of God's power at Mount Carmel. Then after Jezebel's decree to have him killed, Elijah ran to Mount Horeb where many years ago, God commissioned the Israelites through Moses, gave them the Law, and reminded them of His Covenant. Exhausted, depressed Elijah received a mental and spiritual "reset" and renewal from God at Horeb, giving him new direction and purpose.
Thank you God for times...
2022-10-1839 minBibleSFElijah: Prophet to the Northern Kingdom of Israel Lesson 4 [1 Kings 15:25 - 18:46]People of the Promised, Kingdom Divided Lesson 4
Elijah: Prophet to the Northern Kingdom of Israel : 1 Kings 15:25 - 18:46
Elijah, one of the most notable of the prophets that God sent to Israel after a time when king after king escalated idolatry and evil work to a critical point. Consequently, the people suffered and the land wasted.We read that they did evil in the eyes of the Lord, committing sins worse than their fathers. We know how important leaders are in setting policy and creating an environment for thriving and learning; paganism and idolatry created fertile...
2022-10-1141 minBibleSFKings of Judah: Abijah and AsaPeople of Promise Kingdom Divided Lesson 3 Lecture
Kings of Judah; Abijah and Asa
1 Kings15:1-24; 2 / 2Chronicles 13-16
Superficiality or authenticity of faith? What's the difference? Jesus says: "Whoever hears my Words and does them is like a man who built his house on the rock." The Old Testament kings were instructed to inscribe God's commands and statutes and then to meditate on them all their lives, but rarely if ever did they do so. When taking up the position of leading God's people, they took it up as if they were fully prepared...
2022-10-0535 minBibleSFDivided Kingdom: Rehoboam and Jeroboam's legacyDivided Kingdom: Rehoboam and Jeroboam
1 Kings 11-14 and @ Chronicles 10-12
If you notice the abundance of leadership books on the market today, you get a sense that we place a high value on good leadership. Leaders not only impact the nature of our work and whether we'll enjoy what we do, they set the tone for the organization's culture, outlook, mission and vision, and generally accepted attitudes that make up the social-cultural vibe of the people they manage.
How importantly then we see how God takes a strong interest in the kings of...
2022-09-2837 minBibleSFPeople of the Promise Kingdom Divided Lesson 1People of the Promise, Kingdom Divided
Have you noticed that many times when Christians share the Gospel message, the Old Testament is oddly missing from their explanation of Jesus's life and atonement? When the early believers testified of Jesus, they always referred back to the Old Testament which they called the words of Moses and the Prophets. Jesus explains the Gospel Himself in this way to the two disciples on the road to Emmaus? Why do we not do the same?
The Old Testament and the New Testament are telling the SAME story, not a...
2022-09-2131 min
BibleSFPeople of the Promise Kingdom Divided - What's the Big Deal about the Minor Prophets (A Ministry of Bible Study Fellowship - San Francisco)People of the Promise Kingdom Divided - The Part of the Bible We Skimp Over
Welcome back to BSF study in the Minor Prophets. You might think these prophets were in the minor leagues but that's a totally incorrect notion. They were messengers of God in a major way, addressing issues of their day not at all too different from the idolatry and ideologies of pagan cultures of their day. They were standing often alone and against formidable opponents and enemies of God's Word and prevailing by the power of the Holy Spirit. Join us in this...
2022-09-1329 min
BibleSF30 Matthew Chp 28 Closing Reflections on our MessiahCongratulations on completing the final lesson in our Study of the Gospel of Matthew.
This final lecture talk for the term is a few of my reflections that I've been thinking and meditating on the last few weeks that I hope will stir in you a confidence and assurance in the Great Welcome Christ calls us to in Himself into the Kingdom of God.
Please be aware of these last reminders:
1. Please let your GLs know if you are NOT returning next term in September for our brand new BSF study in the...
2022-05-1131 minBibleSFBSF Lesson 29 Matthew Chp 28 The Resurrection of Jesus Christ - Deliverance by our MessiahNEWS: We have one final testimony meeting next week with your regular small groups. If you would like to join our Leader's Meeting for in-person fellowship, please send me an email at biblestudyinsf@gmail.com.
Also, if you're interested in a Summer BSF 9week study hosted by veteran leaders at Menlo Church, they are offering online and inperson study in the book of Job. Men and their children welcomed. Contact Larry Wilson to register and enroll. Lwilson747@yahoo.com (415) 602-3472
BI: The Risen Christ - Fulfillment of the Messiah’s Deliverance
Aim: God’s pe...
2022-05-0443 minBibleSFLesson 28 Matthew 27: The Crucifixion and Burial of JesusToday we're going to look at Matthew chp 27 and unpack what was happening through Jesus's crucifixion and burial in the context of all that Moses, the Prophets and Psalms said about the Messiah, the Deliverer in our Lord Yeshua - Jesus.
We'll talk about the Simon the Cyrene who helped carry the cross, the Tomb, the religious leaders and political leaders who inadvertently became witnesses to the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, the irrelevance of the shroud that some Christian sects believe still exists, and we'll also say a few words about the risen holy peoples...
2022-04-2740 minBibleSFLesson 27 Matthew chp 26b-27 : Jesus betrayed, tried, and accused.Big Idea in the Lesson: God’s sovereign plans
Doctrine: Substitution
Aim: CATL God works His sovereign plans through Jesus for our good and His glory
I. God’s sovereign plans require a response (26:47-68)
a. A response of reception (26:47-56)
b. A response of rejection (26:57-68)
Principle: God’s sovereign plans overrule all opposition.
II. God’s sovereign plans reveal people’s hearts (26:69-27:31)
a. Peter’s heart: denial leading to repentance (26:69-75)
b. Judas’ heart: betrayal leading to remorse (27:1-10)
c...
2022-04-2026 minBibleSFLesson 26 Matthew chp 25BI: Jesus’ Faithfulness vs. Human Unfaithfulness
Doctrine: Redemption
Aim: CATL. Jesus’ faithfulness triumphs over human sin.
I. 26:1-16 Human Devaluation
A. (1-5) Devaluing God’s Son (R-leaders devalue Jesus to death)
B. (6-13) Devaluing Devotion (Disciples devalue Alabaster Jar worship as wasteful)
C. (14-16) Devaluing God’s King (Judas devalues Jesus down to 30 silver coins...price of a slave)
P: Costly devotion is precious to Jesus.
II. 26:17-35 Human Betrayal
A. (17-25) Unrepentant Betrayer
B. (26-30) Sin-Bearing Savior
C. (31...
2022-04-1335 minBibleSFLesson 25 Matthew Chp 25NOTICE: Remember to visit www.biblesf.com for all news and updates on the local San Francisco BSF community, resources, and events,
BI: Readiness for Christ’s Return
Doctrine: Second Coming of Christ
Aim: CATL. Jesus followers are called to anticipate and prepare for His return.
I. Ready for His return (21:1-30)
a. Prepared vs Unprepared (1-13)
b. Faithful vs Unfaithful (14-30)
P. True Disciples believe in and work for His Kingdom.
II. Judged upon His return (21:31-46)
a. Believers (31-40)...
2022-04-0628 minBibleSFBSF Lesson 24 Matthew chp 24Christ offers a contentment and joy not based on our changing or difficult circumstances. Our bad will turn out for good (Rom 8:28), our good things can't be taken from us (Eph 1:3), and the best things are yet to come (1 John 3:1-3).
BI: Christ’s Return
Aim: CATL. Christ’s certain return propels our present survival and service.
I. Christ’s Return: What and When (24:1-35)
a. The catastrophic signs (1-28)
b. The glorious return (29-35)
P: Christ’s certain return propels our survival in the worst of times.
2022-03-3033 minBibleSF23 Matthew 22b-23 Lesson TalkBIG IDEA: Sinful Pride vs. Humble Submission.
AIM: Humble submission to Jesus brings deliverance from sinful pride and hypocrisy
Divisions
Sinners Silenced
Matthew 22:15-49
2. Sinners Fully Exposed Matthew 23:1-39
Principles
God knows the true motives of everyone who claims to seek Him.
2. God will bring judgment against all who pridefully refuse to turn to Jesus for salvation.
Application
Pride and hypocrisy sabotage full submission to God.
Those who refuse humble submission to Jesus face Him as judge.
2022-03-2333 minBibleSFLesson 22 Matthew chp 21-22aBIG IDEA: The Authority of Jesus Christ, Yeshua the Messiah.
AIM: Those who rejects Jesus’s authority will face judgment
Divisions
Jesus Asserts His Authority
Matt 21:18-27
2. Jesus Illustrates God's Judgment Through Parables
Matt 21:28 - 22:14
Principles
Submitting to Christ’s authority is the only way we will bear spiritual fruits which glorifies God and blesses others.
2. When we fail to recognize Jesus’ authority, we are in effect rejecting the authority of God Himself and His Lordship in our lives resulting in judgement
Application
H...
2022-03-1637 minBibleSF21 Matthew 20-21aNOTICE: We have Spring Break next week. Some groups may decide to meet anyway to catch up, so please confer with your Group Leader about whether or not your group is meeting during your regular time during the week of March 5-12.
Also, please consider supporting the ongoing work of BSF International as they expand into more languages including Arabic! Give at bsfinternational.org, and click the give button. Use our San Francisco regional code: 1232 if you are in any of our local or satellite groups. Thank you!
BIG IDEA: Hierarchy of the Humble in...
2022-03-0138 minBibleSF20 Matthew Chp 19 Lesson TalkBIG IDEA: Jesus’ Countercultural Kingdom Values
AIM: Jesus’ countercultural kingdom values point His followers to God and the nature of His Heart.
Divisions
Countercultural Commitment
Matt 19: 1-15
2. Countercultural Surrender Matt 19:16-30
Principles
God deserves total commitment.
2. God deserves complete surrender
Application
What might happen if you recognize opportunities in ministering to Christ’s body as personal training for greatness?
How is God revealing your level of surrender to love, know and serve Him? What areas of your heart have been easier to surrend...
2022-02-2333 minBibleSF19 Matthew Chp 18 BSF Lesson TalkBIG IDEA: God’s People Must Aspire for a Humble Heart like a Child’s
AIM: A humble heart attitude is the basis for Kingdom relationship with others.
Divisions
Kingdom greatness is in childlike humility
Matt 18:1-6
2. Kingdom greatness is having Jesus’s heart for others Matt 18: 7-35
Principles
Every opportunity to serve God through the Church is preparation for spiritual greatness
2. The reality of God’s grace and forgiveness of my sins should change my attitude in forgiving others
Application
What might happen if yo...
2022-02-1638 minBibleSFLesson 18 Matthew chp 17 Jesus's TransfigurationBIG IDEA: God’s Glory reveals the Truth of our faith
AIM: God uses mountain-top experiences in our faith to make known His glory by the reality of God’s presence in our lives.
Divisions
Glory of God reveals God’s greater reality
Matt 17:1-13
2. Glory of God reveals our need to be more attentive to Jesus Matt 17:14-27
Principles
When we experience the glory of God, all other things we once held dear diminish in importance.
2. Our most important response to seeing God’s Glory is to set our h...
2022-02-1036 minBibleSF15 Matthew Chp 16BIG IDEA: Understanding True Faith
AIM: true faith begins not with mechanically observing religious rules and laws, but knowing and desiring the heart of God
Divisions
True Faith Defined
Matt 15:1-20
2. True Faith Demonstrated
Matt 15:21-39
Principles
1. Sinful hearts can only experience Jesus’s transformative power by true faith in Him
2. The deepest needs of the human heart can only be satisfied through true faith in Christ
Application
How is your dependence on God evident to the people around...
2022-01-2637 minBibleSFMatthew Chapter 14 Lesson 15BIG IDEA: Sufficiency in Christ
AIM: that spiritual growth is really when we move from our small view of God to the greater knowledge of God as He actually is.
Divisions
Sufficient for our needs
Matt 14:1-21
2. Sufficient for our Salvation
Matt 14:22-36
Principles
1. The nature of your material and physical resources is never too little to be used by God for His glory.
2. We can trust God to master our storms and walk with us over the threatening waters.
Application
2022-01-1933 minBibleSFMatthew Lesson 14 Chp 13 part 2We are continuing our discussion on the parables about the Kingdom of Heaven in chp 13 part2
2022-01-1229 minBibleSFMatthew Lesson 13 on Chapter 13Happy New Year~! Welcome to Matthew Lesson 13 and our study on Jesus's parables. Let's look at why Jesus decides to use parables as His teaching method and how this affects the people following Him.
2022-01-0131 minBibleSFMatthew Lesson 12 chp 11-12Welcome to another lecture talk on BSF study in Matthew - Lesson 12.
2021-12-1539 minBibleSFMatthew Lesson 11 (Chp9-10)This is the lecture talk on the BSF Study for Matthew Lesson 11- Chp 9-10
2021-12-0831 min2021-12-0136 minBibleSFMatthew Lesson 09 Chp 8Lesson 09 Lecture Talk on Jesus's complete authority over all things, and its consequences for the outcast as well as the insider.
2021-11-1733 minBibleSFMatthew chp7 Lesson 08 Sermon on the MountThis is the last talk on Jesus's Sermon on the Mount on living fully in the wisdom of the Holy Spirit in confusing times.
2021-11-1027 minBibleSFMatthew chp6 Lecture Lesson 07This podcast is for lesson 07 Matthew Chapter 6, a continuation of the Sermon on the Mount.
2021-11-0337 minBibleSFMatthew Lesson 06 Chp 5 part 2Matthew Lesson 06 God's Righteousness in Christ versus human-centered righteousness
2021-10-2730 minBibleSFMatthew Lecture 05 Jesus's sermon on the mount: Beatitudes, Salt, and LightThis is part 1 of the study in Matthew chp 5.
2021-10-2132 minBibleSFMatthew Lesson 04, Chp 4 Jesus and the Power of God's WordChp 4 Jesus and the Power of God's Word
2021-10-1328 minBibleSFMatthew Chp 3 Lesson03 John the Baptist and Christ's Higher Baptism in the Holy SpiritJoin us at www.biblesf.com!
2021-10-0735 minBibleSFMatthew Chp2 Lesson02In this episode, we look at Matthew Chapter 2 and unpacked many fascinating details that are often overlooked in this account of Mary and Joseph's faithfulness, the Eastern Wise Men's earnest investment in searching for the King of the Jews, and God's grace in sending them to the leaders of the Jerusalem to give them a chance to respond to His favor and love. This is the wonderful story of Jesus's birth and God's invitation to everyone to seek and come to His Light.
2021-09-2937 min2021-09-2423 min