Bible Study Recap, September 24, 2025

 

Bible Study Recap: Matthew 12–13 – Expressions of Grace

Last Wednesday at Jason Lee Memorial UMC, we had another beautiful time together in God’s Word. Our study focused on Matthew chapters 12 and 13, two chapters that highlight both the growing opposition Jesus faced and the powerful ways He revealed God’s Kingdom.

What stood out most was how grace shines through every story. In a world full of criticism, accusations, and misunderstandings, Jesus chose to respond with compassion, healing, and invitation. That is the heart of grace - God’s love meeting us in our weakness and transforming us from the inside out.

We reflected on several powerful expressions of grace:

• Grace Restores. In Matthew 12:13, Jesus told the man with the withered hand to stretch it out -and what was broken was completely healed. This reminded us that grace doesn’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect conditions. Grace comes now, restoring us fully and making us whole.

• Grace Liberates. Later in chapter 12, Jesus set a man free from spiritual bondage. While critics accused Him of working with evil, Jesus showed that His power comes from God’s Spirit. Grace always breaks chains - whether of fear, sin, or lies.

• Grace Welcomes. We also noticed how Jesus impacted the very idea of family. First, in His own life, He was born into a family arrangement that was not considered “normal” for His time - Mary, Joseph, and a story marked by divine intervention and questions from the community. Second, in Matthew 12:46–50, when told His mother and brothers were waiting outside, He pointed to His disciples and said, “Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” Jesus was reshaping the definition of family at a time when traditional family structures were considered central to identity and honor. Grace redefines belonging - not by bloodlines or appearances, but by our relationship with God and our willingness to walk in His will.

• Grace Scatters. In the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:3–9), Jesus taught that the Word of God is scattered generously. Some falls on rocky ground, some among thorns, and some on good soil. What amazed us is how abundant grace is—God sows His Word everywhere, even in places that seem unlikely to produce fruit.

• Grace Transforms. The mustard seed and yeast remind us that small things can bring about extraordinary change (13:31–33). Grace takes what seems ordinary and turns it into something life-changing.

• Grace Values. In the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price, we discovered that the Kingdom is worth everything. Grace teaches us to treasure God’s gift above all else.

Throughout our discussion, we shared how these truths connect to our own journeys. Some of us feel like the man with the withered hand, longing for restoration. Others see God’s Word taking root in places we never expected. Together, we were reminded that God’s grace is personal, generous, and transformative.

We ended with a sense of gratitude: that in the midst of life’s struggles, misunderstandings, and challenges, grace is still at work.

Hearts that learn. 

That’s our calling as a church - to keep growing, keep learning, and keep opening ourselves to the surprising ways God’s grace shows up.

Rev. Marvel Souza

We’d love for you to be part of this journey. Join us next Wednesday at 6:00 PM for our next Bible study. Bring a friend, bring your questions, and bring an open heart. Together, we’ll continue exploring the treasures of God’s Word and what it means to live as people shaped by grace.

ALL means ALL

This past Saturday, Jason Lee Memorial UMC was filled with joy, laughter, and connection as some of our young adults and adults organized a special event: a brunch for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Around 30 people gathered in our fellowship hall to share a meal, make new friends, and experience the gift of community in a safe and affirming space. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming - a true reflection of who we are as a church.

Alongside the brunch, our Queer Closet also received and shared clothing donations, providing a practical way to support and care for one another. This exchange of generosity and kindness highlighted the spirit of community we seek to nurture at Jason Lee Memorial UMC.

At Jason Lee Memorial UMC, we believe that everyone is a beloved child of God. We celebrate diversity, honor the sacred worth of all people, and welcome every person without exception. Saturday’s brunch was another beautiful reminder that when we come together in love, walls come down and friendships are built.

We are grateful for the creativity and dedication of our young adults and adults who helped make this gathering possible, and we look forward to many more opportunities to open our doors wide to our neighbors.

Jason Lee Memorial UMC is - and will continue to be - a welcoming congregation where all are invited, valued, and loved.

Rev. Marvel Souza 

Bible Study Recap – September 17, 2025

Exploring Expressions of Grace in Matthew 10 & 11

One of the beautiful things about gathering for Bible study is how God’s Word continues to meet us exactly where we are. Last night was no exception. As we explored Matthew 10 and 11, we were reminded that grace is not an abstract concept—it’s something Jesus gives us in our sending, in our struggles, in our questions, and even in our deepest need for rest. These chapters gave us fresh eyes to see how God’s grace works in everyday life.

Warm-Up

We began by sharing moments when we felt “sent” by someone—whether to represent a friend, family member, or even God Himself. That simple question opened us to reflect on what it feels like to be trusted and empowered, and how often grace comes to us before we feel ready.

Highlights from Matthew 10–11

1. Grace that Sends
   Jesus sent out the disciples with power and authority, even though they were still ordinary, flawed people. We noticed how grace equips before we prove ourselves.
2. Grace that Sustains
   In Matthew 10, Jesus told them not to take extra supplies. Their mission was to depend on God’s provision—a reminder that grace meets us as we walk in trust, not as we stockpile for control.
3. Grace that Welcomes Questions
   In Matthew 11, even John the Baptist doubted if Jesus was truly the Messiah. We saw how Jesus answered with evidence of grace: healing, restoration, and good news for the poor. Grace doesn’t condemn our questions; it meets them with compassion.
4. Grace that Brings Rest
   We ended with one of Jesus’ most famous invitations: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” His yoke is gentle, His burden light. True grace isn’t about doing more—it’s about finding rest in Him.

💬 Group Reflections

• Some of us shared how challenging it is to “travel light” in faith, and how easy it is to rely on our own preparation instead of God’s provision.
• We connected deeply with John’s doubt—realizing that grace allows room for our questions and doesn’t shut us down.
• Many of us confessed that Jesus’ invitation to rest is exactly what our souls are longing for in this busy season.

📝 Homework for the Week

1. Reflection: Identify one area of your life where you feel “sent” by God. Pray daily for His provision and courage there.
2. Memory Verse: Matthew 11:28–30. Begin your mornings by speaking it out loud as a prayer of rest.
3. Act of Grace: Offer encouragement or practical help to someone who is weary—become an extension of Christ’s rest.

As we closed, it was clear: grace in Matthew 10 and 11 isn’t just a theological idea. It’s practical, personal, and powerful. Grace sends us, sustains us, meets us in our doubts, and finally, gives us rest.

Rev. Marvel Souza

🗓 When: Wednesday, September 24

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM

📍 Where: Jason Lee Memorial UMC – Discipleship Room

Bible Study Recap, September 10, 2025

As we continue our journey through the Gospel of Matthew, exploring expressions of grace, our September 10 Bible study focused on chapters 8 and 9.

We began with an icebreaker: five participants each picked a slip of paper with everyday life scenarios written on it. The rest of the group worked together to connect each scenario with a definition of grace. This opened the door to a great discussion about what grace looks like in real life.

During the conversation, one participant asked:

“Does the Bible really say we have to forgive people who commit atrocities? Where is that in Scripture?”

Others in the group responded thoughtfully. While there isn’t a single verse that spells it out, Scripture consistently teaches us to be people of mercy because we ourselves are in need of mercy: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.”

From there, we reflected on how grace flows through Matthew 8 and 9. These chapters reveal Jesus’ compassion and power in many forms—healing the sick, calming storms, casting out demons, forgiving sins, and calling unlikely followers. His actions show us that God’s grace has no boundaries.

Expressions of Grace in Matthew 8–9

• Grace to the outcast (8:1–4) – Jesus touches the untouchable.
• Grace across barriers (8:5–13) – Jesus honors the faith of a foreigner.
• Grace in suffering (8:14–17) – Jesus heals sickness.
• Grace over fear (8:23–27) – Jesus calms the storm.
• Grace to the oppressed (8:28–34) – Jesus sets captives free.
• Grace that forgives (9:1–8) – Jesus heals body and soul.
• Grace that calls (9:9–13) – Jesus welcomes sinners into discipleship.
• Grace of new life (9:18–34) – Jesus raises, restores, renews.
• Grace of compassion (9:35–38) – Jesus sees, feels, and acts.

Reflection Question: Which of these expressions of grace do you need most today?

Life Application: Where can you extend grace like Jesus—at work, at home, in your neighborhood?

Curiosities from Matthew 8–9

• Ten Miracles in Two Chapters – A showcase of Jesus’ authority over sickness, nature, demons, and even death.
• The Leper’s Touch (8:3) – Jesus breaks purity laws by touching a leper, restoring him physically, socially, and spiritually.
• The Roman Centurion (8:5–13) – A Gentile soldier’s faith is praised above Israel’s own people.
• Storm on the Lake (8:23–27) – The Sea of Galilee’s sudden storms reveal Jesus’ divine authority when He calms them.
• Demons into Pigs (8:28–34) – Evil destroys what it inhabits; the townspeople value economics over freedom.
• Forgiveness before Healing (9:1–8) – Jesus first forgives the paralytic, showing His authority reaches the soul.
• Calling Matthew (9:9–13) – A despised tax collector is chosen, revealing radical inclusion.
• The Bleeding Woman (9:20–22) – After 12 years of exclusion, she is healed and restored as “Daughter.”
• “Harassed and Helpless, Like Sheep” (9:36) – Echoes Old Testament imagery, highlighting Jesus’ compassion and mission.
• Structure: Authority + Compassion – Following the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus not only teaches but also demonstrates His authority.

At-Home Practice

1. Which expression of grace in Matthew 8–9 do I most need in my life right now? (healing, forgiveness, courage, compassion, etc.)
2. What word or phrase from these chapters speaks to me today?
3. Is there someone in my life to whom God is calling me to extend grace this week?

✨ May this study remind us that grace is not just something we receive, but something we are called to share.

Rev. Marvel Souza 

Fruitful at Any Age

 Where Are the Young People in Your Church?

A Church Alive at Every Age

That question often comes up, and it reaches me at a time when my heart is filled with gratitude and joy to be leading such a vibrant, active church here in Blackfoot, Idaho. Many people worry about the future of the church and say, “Young people are the future.” But I ask myself: when did God ever start depending on us, human beings, to secure the future of His work? If we truly believe this mission belongs to God, then it is God Himself who holds and guarantees tomorrow.

Of course, as a pastor, I care deeply about welcoming young people into the church. But I don’t do that at the expense of the older adults in my congregation. In fact, I see in them a renewed youth - an energy, a willingness, and a vision to transform our community, our state, and even the world with the love and grace of Christ.

In our church, “young” isn’t defined by age, but by spirit, by a warrior’s heart, a burning passion, and an active mind ready to create strategies that make a real difference. These are the ones serving meals to the community, organizing fundraisers that bless nonprofit organizations, and building one another up in care and mutual support.

They are the backbone of ministry: showing up for worship, volunteering in different areas, giving faithfully, and dedicating themselves with joy. So when someone asks me, “Where are the young people in your church?” I proudly say, “Our young people are 15, 20, 30… all the way up to 90, and if God allows, we’ll soon celebrate our 100-year-olds too!”

Since arriving in Blackfoot, I’ve been continually amazed by the joy and sense of community our members carry. Our worship services have been more and more blessed, through the Word, the music, and the participation of the people. My prayer is that God will keep leading us, strengthening us, and helping us grow even more.

The wisdom, courage, faith, and energy of our “young seniors” are well known throughout Blackfoot. My pastoral compass has always pointed toward full inclusion, where everyone is welcomed, seen, heard, celebrated, and valued, regardless of age or anything else.

“They will still bear fruit in old age; they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, ‘The Lord is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him.’” (Psalm 92:14–15)

Rev. Marvel Souza

Onde Estão os Jovens da Sua Igreja?

Uma Igreja Viva em qualquer idade

Essa pergunta chega em um momento em que meu coração está cheio de gratidão e alegria por liderar uma igreja viva e vibrante em Blackfoot, Idaho. Muitos se preocupam com a continuidade da igreja e costumam dizer que “os jovens são o futuro”. Mas eu me pergunto: em que momento Deus passou a depender de nós, seres humanos, para garantir o futuro da Sua obra? Se cremos que a missão é Dele, então é o próprio Deus quem sustenta e conduz o amanhã.

Como pastor, sim, tenho o desejo de atrair mais jovens, mas isso não significa que deixo de cuidar com amor e dedicação dos idosos da comunidade. Pelo contrário: vejo neles uma juventude renovada, cheia de disposição para transformar nossa cidade, nosso estado e até o mundo, através da expressão mais genuína do amor e da graça de Cristo.

Na minha igreja, os “jovens” não se definem apenas pela idade, mas pelo espírito guerreiro, pelo coração fervoroso e pela mente criativa. São pessoas que servem refeições à comunidade, organizam campanhas de arrecadação para beneficiar outras instituições sem fins lucrativos e que, ao mesmo tempo, fortalecem os laços de cuidado e apoio mútuo.

Eles são parte fundamental da missão pastoral: participam ativamente dos cultos, se oferecem como voluntários, contribuem fielmente e demonstram uma dedicação que inspira. Por isso, quando me perguntam “Onde estão os jovens da sua igreja?”, respondo com orgulho que meus jovens têm 15, 20, 30… até 90 anos – e, se Deus permitir, logo teremos também os de 100!

Desde que cheguei a Blackfoot, tenho sido surpreendido com a alegria e o senso de comunidade que nossos membros carregam. Os cultos têm sido cheios de bênçãos na Palavra, na música e na participação ativa. Oro para que Deus continue nos conduzindo, mantendo e multiplicando esse espírito de unidade e serviço.

A sabedoria, a coragem, a fé e a disposição dos nossos “jovens idosos” são notórios em toda a cidade. Minha bússola pastoral sempre aponta para a inclusão, onde todos são recebidos, vistos, ouvidos, celebrados e valorizados — independentemente de qualquer coisa, inclusive da idade.

“Na velhice ainda darão frutos, serão viçosos e florescentes, para anunciar que o Senhor é reto; Ele é a minha rocha, e n’Ele não há injustiça.” (Salmos 92:14-15)

Rev. Marvel Souza 

Bible Study Recap – September 3, 2025: Gospel of Matthew 5–7

Bible Study Recap: Exploring the Gospel of Matthew 5–7

Yesterday’s Bible study focused on Matthew chapters 5, 6, and 7, exploring Jesus’ teachings on blessings, true happiness, and spiritual maturity. We began with three warm-up questions to get everyone reflecting:

1. Matthew 5 – Jesus talks about true happiness and blessing. Participants shared what a “blessed life” means to them personally.

2. Matthew 6 – Jesus warns against doing things just to be seen by others. We discussed why it’s easy to care about people’s opinions and how to focus instead on what God sees.

3. Matthew 7 – Jesus compares two builders, one wise and one foolish. We explored what it means in daily life to “build your house on the rock.”

Afterward, participants played an online matching game on Wordwall Game about the Beatitudes, which helped reinforce the lessons in an interactive way. Each person then shared their favorite Beatitude and explained why it resonated with them.

I highlighted Matthew 5:48 as the key verse summarizing chapters 5, 6, and 7, emphasizing that “perfection” is not about flawless purity but about spiritual maturity—something we can grow in every day through love.

We also discussed themes from chapters 6 and 7, including hypocrisy, wisdom, and building a strong foundation in faith. Finally, we read and reflected on four devotionals I wrote based on these chapters, connecting the scripture to practical, daily life applications.  

Daily Devotional – September 3, 2025

Matthew 5:3-12

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus begins with words that seem upside down to the world: “Blessed are the poor in spirit… Blessed are those who mourn… Blessed are the meek.” These are not the qualities most people celebrate. Yet in God’s kingdom, true blessing comes not from strength or status, but from humility, mercy, and a heart that longs for Him.

Each Beatitude is both a promise and a challenge. The poor in spirit are promised the kingdom, the mourners find comfort, and the meek inherit the earth. Jesus reminds us that real joy is not rooted in possessions or power, but in the nearness of God and the hope of His kingdom.

Today, take a moment to reflect: where do you see yourself in the Beatitudes? Are you in mourning, needing God’s comfort? Are you hungry for righteousness, longing for justice in your life or in the world? Or perhaps you are called to be a peacemaker in a season of conflict.

The good news is that Jesus meets us in all of these places. His blessing is not for the perfect but for the humble who trust Him. May we walk today with the assurance that in Christ, we are blessed beyond measure—even when life feels hard.

Prayer: Lord, help me to see blessing the way You see it. Shape my heart to live in Your kingdom values, finding joy and strength in Your promises. Amen.

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Daily Devotional – September 3, 2025

Matthew 5:48

Jesus ends this section of the Sermon on the Mount with a startling command: “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” At first, these words can feel overwhelming. How can we possibly be perfect like God?

Here, “perfect” points to maturity and completeness—living fully in God’s love. Jesus calls us not to flawlessness, but to a wholeness that reflects the Father’s heart. In the verses before, He speaks about loving not only our friends but even our enemies. This is the radical love of God: inclusive, gracious, and unending.

To be perfect is to grow daily in love. It means choosing forgiveness over bitterness, kindness over judgment, and peace over conflict. Perfection in Christ is a journey of becoming whole, not an instant achievement.

Today, ask yourself: where is God inviting me to grow in love? Who in my life needs grace, patience, or compassion? Remember, perfection is not about our strength but about God’s Spirit shaping us into Christ’s likeness.

Prayer: Lord, help me walk in Your love today. Shape me into the person You want me to be, reflecting Your mercy and grace in all I do. Amen.

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Daily Devotional – September 3, 2025

Hypocrisy: Matthew 6:1-6

Jesus warns His disciples: “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them… when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets… and when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites.”

The word hypocrisy comes from the image of an actor wearing a mask. Hypocrisy is putting on a show—doing the right things for the wrong reasons. In Matthew 6, Jesus challenges us to examine the motives behind our faith. Do we give, pray, or serve to receive praise from people, or to honor God?

True discipleship is not performance but relationship. God sees what is hidden. He knows our hearts and delights when we live with sincerity. The reward He offers is far greater than human applause—it is His presence and peace.

Today, pause and ask: where might I be wearing a “mask” in my faith? Am I more concerned with how others see me than with how God sees me? Jesus calls us to authenticity, to a faith lived quietly, humbly, and honestly before Him.

Prayer: Lord, remove any mask I wear in my faith. Teach me to give, serve, and pray with a pure heart—seeking only Your approval and living for Your glory. Amen.

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Daily Devotional – September 3, 2025

Wisdom: Matthew 7:24-25

Jesus closes the Sermon on the Mount with a vivid picture: “Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

Wisdom is more than knowledge—it is truth put into action. Many people hear God’s Word, but Jesus says wisdom comes when we obey it. The storms of life will come—trials, disappointments, loss—but the one who has built on Christ will stand firm. The difference is not in the weather but in the foundation.

We often look for wisdom in books, advice, or experience, but true wisdom begins with listening to Jesus and living out His words. Choosing forgiveness over revenge, trust over fear, and obedience over pride is what anchors us on the Rock.

Today, reflect: what foundation am I building on? Am I merely hearing Jesus, or am I living by His teaching? Wisdom is not perfection, but daily choosing to trust and follow Him.

Prayer: Lord, help me build my life on Your Word. Give me wisdom not only to hear but to obey, so that when the storms come, I will stand firm in You. Amen.

Rev. Marvel Souza

You are invited to join our next Bible Study!
📖 Topic: Reflections on the Teachings of Jesus
🗓 Date: Wednesday, September 10
⏰ Time: 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Jason Lee Memorial United Methodist Church (discipleship room)

The Simplicity of the Gospel

“I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist… but I am afraid, lest they should exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case unless they hold fast to the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out.”

The Simplicity of the Gospel

We live in an age where celebrity culture is increasingly evident in both society and the church. Billboards featuring singers, artists, bishops, pastors, and religious leaders have become common. When this desire for recognition is only external, it is already concerning; but it becomes far more dangerous when it reaches the heart—when the mind is dominated by the need to be seen, to achieve success, and to be admired by others.

In the religious sphere, many leaders compete to prove who works harder, who organizes the most attractive events, who preaches or sings better, who gathers the largest membership, or ultimately, who commands the greatest financial influence. As a result, many people find themselves captive to highly competitive churches, marked by complicated theologies, stressful faith practices, and a spiritual life that drifts farther and farther away from the simplicity of the Gospel. The image of Christ seated on the mountainside, teaching the crowds with gentleness, is replaced by a distorted picture of a God surrounded by angels and riches, who severely judges every human action.

Preaching, often filled with rhetorical flourishes, too rarely communicates divine truth. It exalts having over being, obedience over freedom, and human justification over God’s justice. The simple life proposed by the Gospel is exchanged for a Christianity lost in theological speculations and human ideologies—led by pastors who often need to be pastored themselves more than they are ready to shepherd others.

John Wesley, one of the founders of the great evangelical awakenings in 18th-century England, once reflected on the future of the Methodist movement. When asked whether he feared it would one day cease to exist, he replied: “I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist… but I am afraid, lest they should exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case unless they hold fast to the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out.” Wesley’s concern was not about institutional survival, but about losing the essence of the true Gospel.

I am a Methodist pastor, and one of the images that most impacted me in Methodism — and that nurtured my desire to pursue pastoral ministry — was that of John Wesley riding a horse, accompanied by the phrase: “The world is my parish.”This image has always reminded me of the awakening and simplicity of going out and sowing the message of love and grace.

I recognize that we live in an era of many modernities, but I am concerned about the distance that many pastors and leaders have from pastoral and evangelistic practice: caring for, teaching, and proclaiming the gospel by all possible means. I feel deep discomfort when I see that, for some, the church has become merely a job that provides benefits.

My prayer is that we may be renewed and revived to fully live the Methodism of the Cross and the Flame — Christians ignited by the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Likewise, Martin Luther’s words in the Small Catechism express the beauty and simplicity of the Christian faith:

“I believe that God has created me together with all that exists. He has given me and still preserves my body and soul: eyes, ears, and all limbs and senses; reason and all mental faculties. He daily and abundantly provides me with food and clothing, home and family, property and goods, work and all that I need from day to day. He protects me against all danger and shields me from all evil. All this He does out of pure, fatherly, and divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness of mine at all. For all of this I owe it to Him to thank, praise, serve, and obey Him.”

God is calling us back to the simplicity of the Gospel: a life that is pure, peaceful, and deeply rooted in the joy of His Word.

By Rev. Marvel Souza

Bible Study Recap – Matthew 3 & 4

Gospels Through the Perspective of Grace - Gospel of Matthew

Bible Study Recap – Matthew 3 & 4

On August 20th, our group gathered for another Bible study, this time focusing on chapters 3 and 4 of the Gospel of Matthew. The study was led by Rev. Marvel Souza, who began with a short introduction about why Matthew is placed first in the New Testament. He explained that Matthew’s message and purpose show how Jesus fulfills the promises of the Old Testament, making clear the connection between God’s covenant with Israel and the new covenant in Christ.

Rev. Marvel also highlighted how some chapters of Matthew mirror the first five books of the Bible (the Torah). For example:

• Matthew chapter 1 reflects Genesis, since it tells the story of Jesus’ origins.

• Matthew chapter 2 connects with Exodus, showing Jesus’ time in Egypt, the flight from danger, and the persecution of newborns—reminding us of Moses’ story.

These connections help us see that Jesus’ story is not random or isolated, but part of God’s bigger plan unfolding through history.

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Icebreaker Questions

Before diving into the text, Rev. Marvel invited everyone to reflect with two warm-up questions:

1. Think of a time in your life when you felt you were preparing for something new. How did you feel?

2. When you hear the word “desert,” what comes to your mind?

These questions helped open the group to personal sharing and deeper connection, linking our own experiences with the biblical themes of preparation and challenge.

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Guided Study

Each participant received a handout with questions to guide the group discussion on Matthew 3 and 4. The handout made space for everyone to engage with the Scripture and share insights together.

For homework, participants were asked to identify expressions of grace found in these two chapters—specifically in the areas of inclusion, equality, equity, love, and grace. This exercise reminds us that Scripture is not only to be studied but also to shape the way we live and interact with others.

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A Question on Genealogy

During the discussion, one participant asked if Matthew is the only Gospel that includes a genealogy. Rev. Marvel explained that Luke also has a genealogy, but with a different purpose:

• Matthew presents the legal genealogy through Joseph (following Jewish custom, even though Joseph was Jesus’ adoptive father). His purpose was to show:

  1. The continuity between Israel and Jesus, the Messiah.

  2. Jesus’ royal lineage as the son of David and his connection to Abraham, the father of faith.

• Luke, however, traces the family line all the way back to Adam. This shows Jesus’ universal connection with all humanity, not only Israel.

In short, Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the rightful King of Israel, while Luke highlights Jesus as the Savior for the whole world.

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Life Application

Matthew 3 and 4 invite us to reflect on the seasons of preparation God brings into our lives. Just as John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, and just as Jesus faced the testing of the desert, we too experience times when God shapes and strengthens us for what’s ahead.

The desert may feel dry and challenging, but it can also be the very place where God works most deeply in us.

And the genealogies remind us that our faith is rooted in something bigger than ourselves. Jesus’ life is not a disconnected event—it is the fulfillment of a long story that ties together the past, present, and future of God’s people.

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Join Us Next Time

Our next Bible study will be on August 27th at 6:00 PM. We’d love to have you join us as we continue to learn and grow together in God’s Word!

Jason Lee Memorial United Methodist Church - 168 S University Ave, Blackfoot, Idaho 83221