L. UNDERSTANDING THE MESSAGE OF THE BIBLE

Jerry was really confused.  He said, “I am troubled. I just don’t know what is right or wrong.” Jerry went on to explain, “I see people doing things that don’t seem right.”  He further explained, “Then I do things that I am not sure are right or wrong. How do I know if it is wrong to smoke? Is it wrong to drink alcohol? Is it wrong to chew tobacco? What makes something wrong?” An invitation to find answers from the Bible was offered.

Isaiah 59:1-3

Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save,
nor his ear too dull to hear.
² But your iniquities have separated
you from your God;
your sins have hidden his face from you,
so that he will not hear.
³ For your hands are stained with blood,
your fingers with guilt.
Your lips have spoken falsely,
and your tongue mutters wicked things.

1. What does this first phrase tell you about God?

2. What is an iniquity? How is it different from sin?

3. What from these verses tell you what sin is and its effects?

4. How does sin impact your relationship with God?

5. What parts of the body can sin?

6. Suggestions: Look at the BibleProject video on Khata, the Hebrew word for “sin”.

1. How does the concept of sin impact you personally?

2. If sin separates you from God, what is your present status with God?

3. Why do you think sin separates you from God?

4. When you face your sin, how do you feel?

5. What does the Bible say that overcomes this consequence?

6. Take a look at the Bible project video on Atonement for better understanding.

7. What steps can you take to deal with this feeling of guilt?