A bible study taught at RUF.

Paul calls us to rejoice in the Lord. What is it about the Lord that brings joy? Why is the Gospel news that brings joy?

A letter to the church at Smyrna. Jesus gives us perspective on our suffering. 1. He doesn't connect their suffering with their sins. 2. He will never take us in suffering where he has not been. 3. He knows and can stop our suffering but sometimes chooses not to. 4. Suffering can reveal our spiritual blessings. 5. He knows the end of our suffering. 6. He promises us that the worst suffering will never touch us.

1. Legalism produces people who are highly critical of others, vv1-22. Legalism makes God’s instructions harder than they are, vv3-53. Legalism misses the heart, vv6-84. Legalism is looking for loopholes, vv9-13

Jesus identifies the heart problem characterizing the church at Ephesus. He commends them lavishly, criticizes them kindly, and counsels them earnestly.