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TEXT: Psalm 68:5, Galatians 4:3-7, James 1:27
In Week 5 of our And Justice For All series, we consider God's heart for the orphan, the widow, and the enslaved. We live in a world filled with 153 million orphans and 245 million widows, many of whom live in conditions of poverty, without the common protections and provisions of a family. Such vulnerability puts these orphans and widows at risk of one of the most wicked industries in our world today- human trafficking. When we look to the scriptures we see a God who is Father to the Fatherless; one who executes justice for the orphan and widow and calls his people to do likewise. While the need is overwhelming, the gospel of adoption equips the people of God to act on behalf of the orphan, the widow, and the enslaved.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
Consider James 1:27. What do you think James means by religion that is pure and undefiled?
James is not saying that someone gains salvation by works of compassion toward others. We are saved by faith alone in Christ alone. Why then are works of compassion essential for the Christian?
HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
Read Galatians 4:3-7 and list all of the privileges mentioned here for the believer:
Do you have a hard time believing you are an adopted son (heir) of God the Father? Why/ Why Not?
How does understanding the gospel of adoption motivate us to love and serve the vulnerable (orphans, widows, enslaved)?
HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
The sermon on Sunday ended with 3 practical exhortations. How will you and your GC prayerfully take next steps in each of these areas?
Get the Gospel in You- In the coming days meditate on the doctrine of adoption and passages that promote care of the vulnerable. Passages like Galatians 4:3-7, Ephesians 1:5, Romans 8:14-17, James 1:27, Psalm 68:5.
Get Informed-
Get to Work- Some questions to consider: How can I serve the vulnerable closest to me? Remember the Old Testament’s widened understanding of widows - single moms, divorcees, women and children without proper family support structures. Prayerfully consider- What are the needs like this in my family, in my church, in my neighborhood? How can you help? Is it a neighbor? How can your gospel community come together and serve? Is God calling you to adopt or foster? How can I use my time, talents, and resources to support foster/adoptive families and organizations?