Scripture: Colossians 1:1-17, While we lost the image of God with the fall, we put on the image of God once more throughChrist in our baptism. We have been delivered from darkness to light, and will be strengthened with all power for endurance and patience. A timely message as we begin Colossians.

Scripture: Luke10:25-42, The wise in this world are too smart for Jesus! Their wisdom is a tool of their unbelief. What is hidden to them is they don't see the call to belief because this would contradict how the world perceives them. The wise ask: "Am I sure I want to trade in my wisdom for Jesus and the Gospel?" This study concludes by examining the deeper meaning of the parable of the Good Samaritan where the lawyer tests (assaults) Jesus by asking "what shall I do to inherit eternal life?"

Scripture: Romans 15:14-16:27, In these concluding two chapters of Romans, Paul speaks of his ministry. He explains that he must go where the gospel had not already been preached. He warns the believers to avoid false doctrine. We are to avoid, "teachers, that by smooth talk and flattery, deceive the hearts of the naïve." Good advice for Christians today. Paul ends with a doxology that soothes our minds and comforts our hearts. Listen as Pastor Rhode guides us through the last verses of Romans.

Scripture: Luke 4:18-19 Luke 6:20 Luke 6:24-26 Luke 6:43-49 Luke 9:51 Luke 10:17-29 1 Corinthians 1:21, Pastor Rhode reviews Jesus' teaching such as His "upside-down" views in the Beatitudes/Woes sermon. These truths are hidden from the wise yet revealed by faith to little children. The parable of the Good Samaritan is introduced and will be completed next week.

Scripture: Romans 15:1-13, In this age, we all want to have hope in something or someone. Our hopes are sometimes dashed when we realize that nothing is to come of it. Our children, our spouses, our friends, our politics may give uspause to question the hope that is within us. Our hope in Jesus Christ is entirely different. We have his Word and we have his Promise. Our God has told us, through His Word, that we indeed have the Promise of Eternal Life with Him. Sadly, it is a tall order to deal with this fallen world and maintain hope. We are pushing against a culture that minimizes such faith and hope. However, Paul admonishes us to endure and please our neighbor,building him up for his good. Paul offers a benediction to us all in verse 13 when he says, "May the God of hope fill you will all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

Scripture: Romans 14, Adiaphora is something that is neither commanded nor forbidden by God. Christ died for this freedom in Him. Paul discusses not judging one another based the food they eat and what day of the week they worship. "Let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding" - Romans 14:20.

Scripture: Romans 13:8-14:9; Galaltians 3:27, Dear Christian:You would be hard put to read Romans 13 and not have questions, but with Romans 14 the questions continue:Paul says to "owe nothing," but is he talking about money or sin?How do we put on the Armor of Light when we face darkness in this present world?In the body of Christ, we should not quarrel over opinions, but there is one thing to which we must adhere, and what is that?What is Adiaphora? Such a big word for such seemingly minor things.Is our day of worship important, and where did the apostles lead us on this question?We are to put on the new creation in Jesus Christ. Must we do anything to attain such a wonderful thing?Pastor Rhode leads us through 13 and 14 and you don't want to miss this one!

Scripture: Romans 12:18-13:10, Who of us doesn't want to retaliate when someone has wronged us? If all authority is from God, how do we account for the evil ruler? HOw do the ruler and Office of the Ruler differ? Can't we protect those in need? How do we know God will avenge wrong? Why are we to love our neighbor? All of this and more is answered in this lesson in Romans.

Scripture: Luke 9:51- 10:16, Jesus turns and starts for Jerusalem where His exodus will take place. Jesus defines the various costs to follow Him, declaring believers will be without a home in this life and go thru physical death to the other side (i.e. new heaven and earth and eternal life). Jesus sends 72 disciples ahead to enter cities, instructing them in detail to declare the kingdom of God has come near.

Scripture: Romans 12:9-19, "Did Jesus die for even me?" Yes, Christ died on the cross for you! However, St. Paul tells us that since Christ first loved you with a love beyond description, you are to display a genuine love for your neighbor. Contribute to the needs of the saints, and bless those who persecute you. Never be wise in your own sight, but seek harmony and honor. As far as it depends on you to display this love, you can depend on your Savior to give you the strength in this seemingly impossible task. If we fail, we are to try again rejoicing in hope, showing patience in our tribulation, and seeking our Lord's guidance through prayer. Did Christ die for you? Of course, but then he died for your neighbor as well.