Preface
In having read the Bible through a number of times, and hearing numerous scripture-based sermons, various insights have come together in my mind that address certain themes. These themes, over 100 in all, I’ve come to call “Bible Lessons”. There are an infinite number of lessons that could be gleaned from the Bible but for me, these more than 100 address a wide, representative range of the concerns, issues, fears, hopes and questions that we all have. Some lessons share similarities with others but are presented in a different or unique context for increased emphasis.
The majority of these lessons came from the New Testament, although some were taken from Old Testament books, primarily Ecclesiastes, Proverbs, Psalms and Job. I haven’t in all cases remembered exact chapter and verse where certain lessons were taken, because I was more concerned with remembering the content and meaning, particularly if the lesson was based on a sermon I was hearing. In some of the lessons I’m quoting directly from scripture, often times using direct quotes from one of the Apostles, especially, Paul. Many of these lessons have been heavily infused with language and thoughts from the commentaries in the NIV Study Bible I use.
After carefully considering the utility of grouping these lessons under topical subheadings, I found that the diversity of subject material covered herein gave rise to more differences than similarities. This would have resulted in too many subheadings to be useful, and so I decided to keep them all separate. This will give the reader the opportunity to meditate on each lesson as a distinct entity, and give it the full, careful consideration it deserves. They need not be read in any particular order. Go through the Table of Contents and choose lessons to read as circumstances and spiritual needs lead you. Contemplate each lesson, reading it over again to let its full meaning sink in before moving on.
I am well aware that there is a plethora of scriptural study guides and devotionals, and each contributes something of value in one’s journey to maturity in the Christian faith. I am not a trained clergyman or Bible scholar, and have assembled these lessons from knowledge and insights gained over a period of about 15 years while engaged in my own journey of discovery. I find these lessons useful in my prayer life, in addressing issues I face, and in witnessing to others. I found that I can recombine parts of lessons into new lessons tailored to fit new circumstances and situations. Some people find the Bible itself difficult to read and understand. To bridge this gap, I have used common language and familiar concepts as much as possible. Hopefully these lessons provide another tool that will be useful to others in stimulating thinking and discussion on biblical concepts and teachings, and will contribute to their personal spiritual growth.