Daily Bible Study Winter 2022-2023

Study the Bible daily for a closer relationship with God.Daily Bible Study is a great companion to the quarterly Adult Bible Studies or as a stand-alone study for those wanting to study the bible daily. It is presented in quarterly segments. Bible-based and Christ-focused, it coordinates with the lesson themes of Adult Bible Studies. Each daily reading includes a one-page Bible study for each day of the quarter, along with introductory reflection questions and commentary on the daily Scripture passage, life application, and a concluding prayer.Additional information about Daily Bible Study, Winter 2022-2023 Theme: Power and LoveThis winter, Daily Bible Study presents a series of readings supporting the theme 'Power and Love.' Readings come from the Old and New Testament texts. These daily readings, which prepare us for the 13 lessons in Adult Bible Studies, are written by Michelle Morris, Tim Merrill, and Clara Welch.Unit 1Power and VulnerabilityGod's incarnation was into a poor family, from a village of no consequence, vulnerable to the whims and machinations of the mighty Roman Empire. While some readers can relate to this poverty and obscurity, most are citizens of a great world power. Some people know from experience that power can be abused, even against a government's own citizens, but others have known only the protection and benefits of that power. These readings invite us to hear the Nativity accounts from the vantage point of the victims of empire.Scriptures: Judges 9:1-15; Matthew 1:1-25; Matthew 2:1-12; Matthew 2:13-15Spiritual Practice: Acts of MercyUnit 2Power and BelongingThe readings in this unit follow the trajectory of biblical imagery for faith development from adoption through baptism and infancy in faith, into youthful excitement and exuberance, and then to a mature faith that struggles, challenges, and questions. They move us to examine our faith and encourage us to plant ourselves firmly on the path toward maturity.Scriptures: Galatians 3:23-4:7; Luke 15:11-32; John 17:1-24 and Ephesians 4:14; Colossians 3:12-17; Matthew 22:1-14Spiritual Practice: Rule of LifeUnit 3The Power of LoveOne of the distinct traits of biblical theology is the emphasis on God's hesed (lovingkindness) and Jesus' selfless love. While the Bible uses different words for different kinds of love-agape, philia, and eros-the lines are actually blurred between agape and philia. The greater emphasis is on relationships. While we should enact our love without thoughts of personal gain, the ultimategoal of loving our enemies is becoming their friend. These readings encourage us toward that end.Scriptures: 1 John 4:7-21 and Ruth 4; 1 Kings 3:16-28; 1 Samuel 18:1-4, 19:1-7, 20; Matthew 16:21-28Spiritual Practice: Spiritual Friendship