Adelphi Class, First Methodist Church, Houston TX

Adelphi Class, First Methodist Church, Houston TXAdelphi Class, First Methodist Church, Houston TXAdelphi Class, First Methodist Church, Houston TX

832-688-1800

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832-688-1800

Adelphi Class, First Methodist Church, Houston TX

Adelphi Class, First Methodist Church, Houston TXAdelphi Class, First Methodist Church, Houston TXAdelphi Class, First Methodist Church, Houston TX
  • Home
  • About Us
    • About Us
    • History
    • Past Presidents
    • Past Presidents 2
    • Past Presidents 3
    • Past Presidents 4
    • Past Presidents 5
    • Past Presidents 6
  • Contact Us
  • Lesson Archives
    • Lesson Index
    • 2015 lessons
    • 2016 lessons
    • 2017 lessons
    • 2018 lessons
    • 2019 lessons
    • 2019 lessons B
    • 2020 lessons A
    • 2020 lessons B
    • 2021 A lessons
    • 2021 B lessons
    • 2022 A lessons
    • 2022 B lessions
    • 2025 - Proverbs

Looking for a specific topic? Click the lesson index button!

lesson index

2017 Lesson Archives

Index - Please scroll down to find lesson topics and special videos

1. Mark, continued (Jan 1 to Jan 8 and Feb 5 to Mar 5)

2. Guest teacher, Ezra Charles (Jan 15 to Jan 29)

3. Guest teacher, Bishop Scott Jones, March 12

4. What Jesus said and what He meant, (March 26 to April 9)

5. Easter, The Rest of the Story, April 16

6. After the Crucifixion, April 23

7. Evidence of the Resurrection, April 30

8. The Holy Spirit (May 7 to May 28)

9. The Fruit of the Spirit (June 4)

10. Churchill and Hitler (June 11)

11. Just Walk Across the Room (June 18 to August 13)

12. Guest teacher, Charles Pehl, (August 20, September 10)


13. Moses, The Reluctant Prophet (Sept 13 to Dec 10)

14.Rethinking the Cross and the Crucifixion  (Dec 17 to Dec 31)

                                         1. Mark, continued (Jan 1 to Jan 8 and Feb 5 to Mar 5)

Adelphi lesson January 1 (Mark, continued)
From  Mark 7, Allen discusses the disciples concerns about being able to feed  the 4,000. The city in question is the Decapolis, which is the only  Greek city in Israel.  Allen tells us about one of the independent  cities, Gagara. Several of these cities are in desolate areas, which  means there wouldn't have been much food. In this case, Jesus had  "compassion" on the crowd. There where only seven loaves to feed a total  of probably 12,000 people (4,000 men were listed, BUT women and  children would not have been counted, so the actual numbers was much  higher). After feeding the crowd, the "leftovers" filled seven LARGE  baskets (There are two different words used to describe "large" when  describing feeding the 5,000 and feeding the 4,000.)  Were these mass  feedings the same event? Allen explains how the two mass feedings WHERE  different events. A class member points out that miracles don't have  logical explanations. Some differences in the events: In the first  feeding, the leftovers were "just enough". In the second feeding, there  were enough leftovers to feed the crowd on their journey home. Do the  disciples really understand what's going on? What about showing the  people a sign? Was Jesus avoiding Galilee? Next, Jesus tries to make his  point in a different way, when he helps a blind man. What is Jesus'  message to the blind man (and to us) by healing the blind man? Allen has  the answer! Next, Jesus asks two questions: "Who do people say that I  am?", and "Who do YOU day that I am?" A class member discusses the Jews  understanding of the Messiah. Next, Jesus picked the center of Paganism  (Cesarea Philippi) to give the disciples his message. When Jesus talks  about "losing your life", what does he really mean? Who taught the  Romans about crucifixion? Next, how do you get to the promise of a  better life? What is our challenge in 2017?   https://vimeo.com/198046093


Adelphi lesson, January 8 (Mark, continued)

Raul Arredondo gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/198585797
Allen  continues in Mark 8 with some well known verses. Next, how were the  chapters separated? Allen discusses the transfiguration. Who is the  "Elijah" of Jesus' day?  Next, the Power of Faith over a Demon.  The  class asks Allen a funny question. Next, more well known quotes. Next,  some warnings from Jesus. What IS Mark talking about as this chapter  finishes? Allen has an idea. The class has more comments. https://vimeo.com/198586459


                                         2. Guest teacher, Ezra Charles (Jan 15 to Jan 29)

Adelphi lesson, January 15. 2017 Ezra Charles, guest teacher - The language of Jesus
Allen Houk introduces Ezra Charles.
Ezra  tells us that there are still communities in the Middle East where  Aramaic is their current language. Ezra begins with Noah's three sons.  Where does the word "Semitic" come from? Next, "Lingua Franca".  What  caused the demise of the use of the Aramaic language? Ezra shows us the  Lords Prayer side by side in the King James Version and word for word  Aramaic. What about: "Lead us not into temptation."  How was it REALLY  said? Is "Amen" an Aramaic word? Next, Ezra gives us some additional  meanings of specific words in the Lords Prayer. What did these words  actually mean in that time?
How many languages did Jesus know?  https://vimeo.com/199567692


Adelphi lesson, January 22, 2017 Ezra Charles, guest teacher - Aramaic, the language of Jesus, continued

Pat Hodges gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/200575525

Aramaic, the language of Jesus, continued.
Ezra  shows us a book by Rocco A. Errico. This book has side by side  translations of the Bible in English and Aramaic. Ezra starts in Matthew  1:18-25, using a DIRECT Aramaic to English translation which has the  accurate interpretation of Jesus' name. Did you know the letter "J" was  only invented in the 1700s? What about the letters "S" and "U"? When did  they begin? Ezra gives us several examples of Aramaic translations.  Next, should we worry if we are saying Jesus' name accurately? What name  did Mary call out the back door when Jesus was a little boy? What does  "Amen" mean? Ezra takes several questions from the class.  https://vimeo.com/200577506


Adelphi lesson, January 29   More about Jesus' language - Aramaic 

Kathy Hughes gives the opening prayer https://vimeo.com/201565913

Ezra  shows us a book by Rocco A. Errico.  This book has side-by-side  English/Aramaic translations of parts of the Bible. Ezra begins in  Matthew 4:18-20 and gives us several examples of the actual meanings of  words and names in Aramaic. What was Simon's nickname? Next, Peters  greatest moment. What are some meanings of "rock"?  How does this  compare to the variety of word meanings in the English language? Next,  Peter offends Jesus. Next, were there really demons to cast out? Next  Peter and the "magic fish". Next, Matthew 14:23-33 (Peter walks on  water) and Matthew 8:23-27 (Calming the storm).  How does a better  understanding of Aramaic help us interpret these stories? Next, Jesus'  best comeback statement. Next, some Aramaic insights. What about the  "Constitution of the Kingdom"? And, why DID Jesus use parables? What was  the general thought process in the world before Jesus? Ezra has an  idea. https://vimeo.com/201610729


                                        Back to topic # 1. Mark, continued (Feb 5 to Mar 5)

Adelphi lesson, February 5 - Mark, continued

Allen Houk returns as our teacher

Allen  begins in Mark 10 and mentions that Jesus liked to answer a question  with another question. Allen adds some of his own comments about the  scripture. Did Jesus side with the liberal view regarding divorce, or  the conservative view? Is marriage always joined by God? Why did Jesus  hold the children? What about the Rich Young Ruler? Next, Allen  discusses Possessions and the Kingdom. Next, Jesus discusses the  Prediction of His death.  https://vimeo.com/202653992

PS We know there is a "glare" on the video screen, and will adjust the video production next week!


Adelphi lesson, February 12 -  Mark, continued

Jerry Parker gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/203723044
Allen  continues in Mark 10:46-52, with the story of the blind beggar. Next,  information about Jericho. Next, chapter 11, "The Triumphal Entry".   What is the significance of the young donkey? How many of the people  mentioned in Jesus' entry to Jerusalem would have known who He was? What  about the statement the people made, "Hosanna in the highest?" Next,  Allen explains the cursing of the fig tree. Allen shows a drawing of how  they cut such large stones for the temple. Next, the cleansing of the  temple. Allen shows some photos of the temple walls that still remain,  and an artists rendering of how the temple would have looked in Jesus'  day. Next, what happened to the fig tree? We finish with a close up view  of Allen's bow tie. https://vimeo.com/203723857


Adelphi lesson, February 19 -  Mark, continued

Marillyn King gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/204821107
Allen discusses Faith and Forgiveness. Next, a series of five challenges for Jesus. First, the Messiah's Authority Challenged.
Should  authority be separate or together? There's a technical glitch, but you  get a great photo of Yosemite Valley during the transition. Second, the  Parable of the Vineyard. What did the word "slave" actually mean? This  parable comes from Isaiah 5:1-7.  The people in Jesus' time would have  been familiar with this Old Testament story.  Then , other related  scripture, including 1 Peter (Peter was the memoir of Mark). Third, God  and Caesar. Allen shows a photo of a Roman coin. Next, the Sadducees and  the Resurrection. Fourth , the Primary Commands. Fifth, the Question  about the Messiah. Next, a question about the education of that time. https://vimeo.com/204821471


Adelphi lesson, February 26 - Mark 13
Allen  says this is a difficult chapter, as this discusses the end of time.  First, Allen reviews the Prediction of the Destruction of the Temple.  Allen shows a photo of the Huldah gate. Next, rumors of War, and  persecutions. Next, the Great Tribulation. Who are the elect? Then, The  Coming of the Son of Man. Next, the Parable of the Fig Tree. How does  this relate to the Tribulation? And, who knows when the Tribulation will  occur? Allen shows a drawing of Earthquakes and Famines; all of them  before the destruction of Jerusalem. https://vimeo.com/205794300


Adelphi lesson March 5 -  Mark 14 and 15

   https://vimeo.com/207234377


3. Guest teacher, Bishop Scott Jones, March 12

Adelphi lesson March 12 -  Guest teacher, Bishop Scott Jones
Lesson notes coming soon!  https://vimeo.com/208052382

Adelphi  lesson March 19  No video this week, so the lesson is: If you really  want hear Allen's teaching, you'll want to come to see him live on  Sunday morning!


                                         4. What Jesus said and what He meant, March 26 to April 9

Adelphi lesson March 26  What Jesus said and what He meant.
Raul Arredondo gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/210148048
Allen  says what Jesus said and what he meant can be two different things.  Part of this is related to translations using several languages. What  about the word, "kurios"? Next, why did mamon become Mammon? Allen gives  several scriptures using different words (such as "master" and "Master  ". Do any of the disciples EVER call Jesus by his proper name? How did  the use of "Kurios" change? What about, "merimnan"? Allen gives us ten  verses Jesus gives that relate to seven arguments and defenses against  worry. Next, Allen gives quotes from a preacher who gave twelve thousand  sermons. You'll WANT to read these! The preacher: Charles Spurgeon.  1834 - 1892. Allen asks us a question: "Does anxiety produce the result  that you want"?  https://vimeo.com/210148798


Adelphi lesson April 2  What Jesus said and what He meant. (continued)

Craig Lamb gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/211211315
Allen  tells us that translators of the Bible had to pick from up to five  meanings of words as they translated the Bible. For example, what are  some translations of "believe"? Next, Allen discusses Daniel 12:1. Next,  Maccabees and Esdras. What is the Talmudic view? (Writings about the  Old Testament).  What about the war of Gog and Magog? Allen mentions  Rabbi David Kimchi (1160-1235). Next, what about the afterlife?  Can a  non-Jew become a righteous gentile? Allen discusses the mount of the  Transfiguration. Allen asks us to read 1 Corinthians 15 https://vimeo.com/211205668


Adelphi lesson April 9  What Jesus said and what He meant. (continued)

Judy Canon gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/212482356
Judaism  concentrates on the importance of "this world"; it took a while to  focus on the afterlife. Today Allen gives us the seven laws of Noah.  They are in the video. Six of the seven laws come from Genesis.  Next,  what is the "Mishnah"? The "Midrash"? The "Talmud"? Next, Allen goes to  the New Testament. What is the Greek meaning of Resurrection? Allen  gives us three translations of Luke 2:34. Next, John 11:38-44, and Back  to 1 Kings 17:19-22. Next, 2 Kings 4:32-37. What happened to Elisha?   Back to Luke 7:11-17 (Jesus raises the widow's son at Nain) Next,  several passages from Acts. Next, the Greek word "spirit", and "soul". https://vimeo.com/212484419


                                                              5. Easter, The Rest of the Story

Adelphi April 16, 2017 Easter. The Rest of the Story
Jim Krause gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/213457120
Allen gives us four things that contributed to the death of Jesus.
1) The Law
2) The Roman government in Judea
3)  The fractured Interaction of government. Allen shows a flow chart of  the power structure of the day. (It's long and complicated). What about  Tiberius, Sejanus, Lucius Lamia, Pilate, Caiphas and Annas?
4) People and Religion. The Romans had up to 30,000 gods for their system.
Allen  tells us about Tiberius and his family. How did Tiberius deal with  Sejanus? How does all this relate to the death of Jesus?  Allen has the  answer. Allen shows a 1305 painting of Pontius Pilate by Giotto.  https://vimeo.com/213458491


                                                             6. After the Crucifixion

Adelphi April 23, 2017 After the Crucifixion
Jane Thompson gives the opening prayer. Yes, that is she standing behind the sunflower. https://vimeo.com/214423882
Allen  starts with Luke 21, then Matthew 26. Next, an explanation of Passover  and the Feast of the Unleavened Bread. Several important events came  together right before Jesus' crucifixion. What were they? Allen believes  that Passover became significant because of Jesus. Why? Next, Allen  gives us several scriptures that are only found in Mathew. Next, Allen  shows us some differences in Mark and Luke regarding the Bandits who  were crucified with Jesus, and explains why. Next, John 19. How did the  Romans learn about crucifixion? Next, Allen gives more information about  the Festival of the Unleavened Bread, and the Burial of Jesus. What did  the disciples do the day AFTER the Crucifixion?  https://vimeo.com/214404860


              7. Evidence of the Resurrection

Adelphi Class April 30, 2017 Evidence of the Resurrection

Henry Stevenson gives the opening prayer.  https://vimeo.com/215430207
Allen  starts with Matthew 28, then Mark 16, then Luke 24, then John 20, which  describe the same event. Why are there differences in the scriptures?  Why are the women important to the story?
Next, Acts 28:30-31, which  was written in 62 to 65 AD. Allen gives us accounts that were MUCH  closer to the Crucifixion. Allen gives writings from Philippians,  Colossians and 1 Corinthians. What does Cephas mean in Aramaic and why  is it relevant? Next, Galatians 1:18-19. What did Paul do in Jerusalem  beginning in 35 AD? What about the commissioning of the Disciples?
Next, Allen gives us many scriptural appearances of Jesus after the Resurrection.
Next, Allen answers several class questions.https://vimeo.com/215433032


    8. The Holy Spirit

Adelphi Class, May 7, 2017 The Holy Spirit

Kathie Hughes gives the opening prayer https://vimeo.com/217399931

Allen begins his series on the Holy Spirit https://vimeo.com/217406863

Adelphi Class, May 14, 2017 The Holy Spirit, continued

Raul Arredondo gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/217427861
The  Old Testament word for spirit, RULACH, is listed 377 times, and has 29  shades of meanings (including: air, anger, blast,. cool, strength,  temper, thoughts and wrath).  Next, Exodus 28:3 and Exodus 31:1. Then,  Samuel 22:1 and Thessalonians 2:8. Next, Numbers and Deuteronomy. What  about the prophets? Allen is telling us about various GIFTS that are  listed, including Genesis 41:35-40 (food and administration). Next, did  the Holy Spirit  ever leave David? Allen switches to a New Testament  view from Paul in 1 Corinthians 2. Next Romans 12:6-8. Next, gifts  listed in Ephesians and Corinthians. Why were there differences in  Paul's writings? Does the Holy Spirit still go on? The class asks  several questions and Allen digresses to tell us about his experiences  with the Holy Spirit. https://vimeo.com/217432486


Adelphi Class, May 21, 2017 The Holy Spirit, continued
Randy Houston gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/218372364

Allen  reviews gifts of the spirit, using 1 Corinthians and Ephesians. To whom  was Paul writing? Allen gives several texts from Acts to help explain.  He also gives us different translations of the Bible. Hebrew had about  5,000 words; Greek had about 50,000 words. How does that affect the  translations? Allen shows us Strong's Greek Lexicon - be sure to review  this slide. What was Paul trying to accomplish in his writings to the  Corinthians? A class member asks about the difference between speaking  in tongues and "babbling". https://vimeo.com/218373351


Adelphi Class, May 28, 2017 The Holy Spirit, continued

Raul Arredondo gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/219300121
Allen  concludes the "GIFTS" portion of this lesson. He begins with gifts  mentioned in 1 Corinthians, and lists observations by Adam Clarke  (1763-1832. He lived during the time of Wesley, but was not well known,  even though his work was considered very important to Methodism for 200  years. What does Clarke want us to remember? How do the gifts of  "Wisdom" and "Knowledge" go together? Allen mentions the preaching of  Charles Spurgeon.  
Next, the gifts of discernment and faith. How  often is faith mention the the Old Testament? The New Testament? Next,  the gift of working miracles. Which of the nine gifts listed in Acts  would YOU like? Allen shares comments from W. E. Vines. Next, Allen  tells us how critical the Holy Spirit is to the church and to us. What  do we do TODAY with our gifts? 
https://vimeo.com/219301487


                                                       9. The Fruit of the Spirit

Adelphi Class, June 4, 2017 The Fruit of the Spirit
Raul Arredondo gives the opening prayer.https://vimeo.com/220308131

Allen  tells us that the Greek word for fruit is singular. Allen uses the  Amplified Bible to give us scripture from Galatians. How is the  Amplified Bible different? Allen gives the same text from the NIV, which  takes "no liberties" with the translation. Next, Allen gives some  general information about Galatians. Allen discusses challenges to  Paul's credibility. Allen gives us a list of fruit. Agape occurred in  both the Old and New Testament, but was given its meaning in the New  Testament. The New Testament has two of the four Greek words for  "love".  Next, Joy. Next, Peace. Next, Patience. Next, Kindness. Next,  Goodness. Allen gives four statements about Goodness. Next,  Faithfulness. Next, Gentleness. Next, Self Control. https://vimeo.com/220310903


                                                         10. Churchill and Hitler

Adelphi Class, June 11, 2017 Churchill and Hitler

Mary Lou Adams gives the opening prayer.  http://youtu.be/XXerB-YFEdk
Allen  gives us some fascinating historical insights about two of the most  influential people of the 20th century. Both Churchill and Hitler  thought they were vital to the future of the world. They were born into  completely different types of families. Next, Allen shows the  differences between their upbringing and opportunities. Churchill's  parents gave him very little attention, so his biggest influence was his  Christian nanny. Who influenced Hitler? What caused him to "create" the  Aryan race? Was there actually a "race" of Aryan people?  How does this  relate to the challenges facing the church in America today?

https://vimeo.com/221173933


                                            11. Just Walk Across the Room

Adelphi Class, June 18, 2017 Just Walk Across the Room

Henry Stevenson gives the opening prayer  https://vimeo.com/222106461

Allen  discusses a book written by a Chicago pastor, Bill Hybels, whose Sunday  attendance is about 27,000 people. Hybels focuses on people who don't  feel like "part of the group / click". Allen tells us several stories to  illustrate Hybels point. First, a Muslim at a party in a southern city.  Next, Romans 5 and John 8 (some translators excluded John 8). Next, a  story about a pilot. In the story, the pilot (in a single engine plane)  was asked to turn off his connection to ground control. Why? Next,  "Brian" a soccer coach. How did Hybels reach out to him?  https://vimeo.com/222118799


Adelphi Class, June 25, 2017 Just Walk Across the Room, continued

We  are studying the work of Bill Hybels who teaches about letting the Holy  Spirit help you get out of your comfort zone to reach out to other  people. Allen begins with Acts and Galatians.
Next, how do people  begin their  Christian journey? And what is OUR roll in evangelism? Do  we always succeed when talking to people about faith? Allen uses Matthew  13 to illustrate. Next, Mark 8:36. How does YOUR scale balance? Can we  ordain the role we will play in discussing faith? Can you leave your  "circle of comfort" to the "zone of the unknown"?

https://vimeo.com/223040375


Adelphi Class, July 2, 2017 Just Walk Across the Room, continued
Ezra Charles gives the opening prayer:  https://vimeo.com/223979372
Allen talks about the use of initials in describing things. What are the 3Ds?
1) Developing Friendships
2) Develop Stories
3) Discern Next Steps
How  many of us think about helping friends and neighbors into heaven?  However, the Bible's position on evangelism is different from many  modern churches. How so? Allen shows a chart about the amount of active  evangelism as related to the length of time a person is in the church.  Are we "cut out" to walk across the room and befriend a stranger? Bill  Hybels says that avoiding evangelism is the polar opposite of what Jesus  did. Allen shows another chart listing how our focus in church can  change after time. Next, the thief on the cross next to Jesus. Allen  lists several other "Questionable" people in the Bible. What did Jesus  do with these people? Next, what about Saul? And, what about the man  with the withered hand? Was he a "set up"? What about our choices in  dealing with people who are "different" from us? The class has several  questions for Allen.  https://vimeo.com/223981918


Adelphi Class, July 9, 2017 Just Walk Across the Room, continued

Dick Bailey gives the opening prayer: https://vimeo.com/224849918

Allen  begins with a question from last week's lesson. How do you rank  yourself in finding new believers? Next, the scripture about the man  with the withered hand.  What Jesus did was to always bring out the BEST  in people. Next, three stories about Pastor Bill Hybels. Story 1 is  very compelling - Hybels gives a despondent couple two "new" words to  describe their life. Can you find some new words? Also, Hybels did not  disclose his occupation (as a preacher), yet he still was able to reach  out and help them. Allen says the only way we can reach people who are  FAR from God is to get close to THEM first. The key word is  "proximity."  Next, Sensitivity in reaching out . Story 2 is about a  late night confession. What do we need to do to receive forgiveness?  https://vimeo.com/224856586


Adelphi Class, July 16, 2017 Just Walk Across the Room, continued
Raul Arredondo gives the opening prayer: https://vimeo.com/225769091

What  do you "Discern what to do Next" as you engage someone about church?  How do you know what resource to provide? Does a resource provider focus  on (1) wayward types, (2) being a moral compass for stragglers or (3)  being a Bible Answer Man? (The answer is NO). Instead, Allen suggests  that a resource provider approach people in a humble way so that we can  first understand WHAT the resource should be. Next, where do  opportunities arise? Is it someone you already know, or someone new?  Allen gives us some excellent examples. Next, what are your initial  interactions that can make you a resource provider? Allen gives us  several stories from Hybel's book. If WE can't preach salvation, what  CAN we do? You'll WANT to hear Allen's final comments. https://vimeo.com/225774257 

Adelphi Class, July 23, 2017 Just Walk Across the Room, continued

The class sings "Happy Birthday" to Allen.  https://vimeo.com/226658724
Allen  Houk gives the opening prayer. Allen tells a joke, and then begins with  the "Be with factor" Allen gives details about Jesus asking the  Samaritan woman for some water. Of which water is Jesus speaking? Allen  suggests this is an example of Jesus "walking across the room". Next,  Matthew 15:21-31 (How did Jesus convert people?) Allen mentions several  parables. Allen asks us to practice telling our (conversion) story to  someone in less than 45 seconds. Allen gives us some examples of what to  say, and what NOT to say. https://vimeo.com/226659574


Adelphi Class, July, 30, 2017 Just Walk Across the Room, continued

Lynn Larson gives the opening prayer.  https://vimeo.com/227636041
Allen  asks, "Why build bridges?" Man has always wanted to bridge chasms to  get to the other side. What about the chasm between God and man?  Historically, how did man attempt to bridge this chasm? Allen explains  the role of the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Regarding various faiths,  where do they start? Answer, on the human side of the equation.  Christianity is the only religion in which God reaches out to us to  bridge the gap. What is the standard for Christianity? (The Bible).  Allen shows a graph of the chasm between man and God. You'll want to se  the graph develop. Next, do you really believe the Message? There are  two groups of people regarding evangelism: Avoiders and Erupters. Allen  says we should create a "living obituary."
https://vimeo.com/227636876


Adelphi Class, August 6,  2017 Just Walk Across the Room, continued

Ezra Charles gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/228580296
[Editors  note: Allen's microphone was "in and out" for a few minutes, but please  be patient with the audio. We did solve the problem after a few  minutes.]  Allen reviews the scripture about Jesus asking the Samaritan  woman for water. What actions did Jesus take in answering her  "deflections"? Allen breaks down their conversation. Jesus is able to  keep coming back to HIS point by answering her deflections. Next, Allen  gives us a list of questions we can use in everyday conversation so we  can begin a dialogue about church. Allen says we ought to be patient in  dealing with people's deflections.  https://vimeo.com/228581893


Adelphi Class August 13, 2017 Just Walk Across the Room, continued
Well, no camera this week, so YOU are the lesson this week! Please get out your Bible and read these passages. First, the woman at the well.

OPEN UP YOUR BIBLE, and read John 4: 1-28.  

What  was the purpose of her salvation? What would have happened 15 years  later? How many people were saved because Jesus spoke to her? How can  YOU change the world? (More about the woman below)

OPEN UP YOUR BIBLE, and read Luke 5: 1-11.

 (Jesus  goes out with the fishermen)  Allen says the intrusion of God into our  lives has a purpose. In this case they left their load of fish (their livelihood) and followed Jesus. The woman at the well left her bucket of water (symbol of her life) to follow Jesus. A member asks, "Who had the most faith - the woman, or Peter, Andrew, James and John?" Allen says it was Philip, who is not mentioned here.  Although the woman confessed to the whole village. Pastor Hybels says  Jesus departed from the ordinary to the extraordinary least 40 times.  Allen talks about the pervasiveness of social media and how many young  people are unhappy. This makes it even more important that we reach out  to people and "Walk Across the Room" to invite people to church. Allen  says we should put out OUR net and catch some new members.


          12. Charles Pehl, guest teacher​

Adelphi Class August 20, 2017 Charles Pehl, Guest Teacher
Judy Cannon gives the opening prayer.  https://vimeo.com/230372528
Charles  gives us a review of his series beginning in the Old Testament. Many  "gods" come from things you can see or hear (like thunder), but you can not see  the God of Israel. Next, a review of Judges, including Saul, and then  David. Charles compares the Biblical people to several movie characters.  Next, Nathan confronts David about his actions toward Uriah. Charles  says Solomon oversaw the Golden Age of Israel. Next, 1 Kings, chapter  11. What is the difference between Solomon and David? Charles says the  real enemy was Jeroboam. When Jeroboam flees, where does he go? Charles  has the answer. Next, Rehoboam, Solomon's heir. https://vimeo.com/230362492


 

Adelphi Class September 17, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet
Phillip Pena gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/234224300
​Allen  shows a map of lower Egypt. Moses was not born in Goshen, probably in  Thebes south of Cairo. The capital of upper Egypt was Thebes. Egypt  became a civilized nation about 4,500 years ago. Allen gives us a review  of their history. When was Moses born? Allen shows us Exodus 1:6-8. Why  was Pharaoh afraid of the Israelites? Allen gives several modern  examples of immigration concerns and then compares those to Egypt. Allen  says the stories in Exodus discuss "civil disobedience" and "adoption".  What does that mean for us today? https://vimeo.com/234226372


​​Adelphi Class September 24, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued

Donnie Martin gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/235243855
Allen  begins with a review from his last lesson. Moses would have spent his  life in Memphis. Since Moses grew up in the presence of Pharaoh, this  can explain similarities between Egyptian and Hebrew religious symbols.   Allen examines the history of Moses' time. Next, Allen shows scripture  from Exodus. Is "Moses" a Hebrew name? What about Midian? During the  reading of Exodus, Allen points out that there are "intervening authors"  who add to the text. How many liars where there in this text? Does  lying change God's intentions? The class has several comments. https://vimeo.com/235249801


​​Adelphi Class October 1, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued

Henry Stevenson gives the opening prayer.  https://vimeo.com/236356635
Allen  begins with Moses' encounter with the burning bush. Allen reminds us  that there were several extra sources to the writing of Exodus. Allen  points out that 400+ years passed between these events and when the  scripture was written. What does "YHWH" mean?  When were vowels added to  Hebrew? What does "I AM" mean? Next, Allen shows a photo of a statue of  Rameses II.  https://vimeo.com/236357910


​​Adelphi Class October 8, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued

Cheryl Morrison gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/237308619
Allen  begins with a review from last week. Allen gives us some information  that WILL BE on our final exam. Next Allen us different translations  (NIV vs NSRV) of several Biblical texts. A class member asks, "Why would  God want to kill Moses?" Next, more about Rameses II, the most powerful  Pharaoh in Egypt's history. Why is it also spelled "Ramsesses"? Next,  Allen shows a map of the Exodus. What is the festival of the "Sed"? https://vimeo.com/237309236


Adelphi Class October 15, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued
Jerry Boyle gives the opening prayer.   https://vimeo.com/239942280
Allen  says the plagues experienced in Egypt, WERE in accordance with what we  might expect in nature. Allen reviews five events. Since the Hebrews had  been in Egypt for several hundred years, they may have forgotten  Abraham, and their roots from Canaan. This might have been a factor in  how the Israelites responded to Moses. What other meanings could the  word "divisions" have? Allen says the interchanging of "Hebrews" and  Israelites" indicates a second author of the text. Allen asks us how the  Egyptian magicians could have duplicated Moses' plagues. Here are the  plagues: (1) Blood everywhere [the priests do the same] (2) Frogs  everywhere [the priests do the same]  (3) Gnats everywhere [the priests  CAN'T do the same]  Up until now, the Israelites experience everything  the Egyptians did. Pharaoh agreed to let the Israelites offer sacrifices  for three days, BUT they could not go into the desert. (4)  Flies everywhere BUT in Goshen. Allen says that so far the plagues where  natural occurrences and explains why. Also, the Nile river was  represented by two gods; part of what they where to do is keep the Nile  pure. How did Pharaoh's "hard heart" change during this series of  plagues? Pharaoh risked everything (all the things he had prepared his  whole life) in order to challenge the God of Israel. Allen takes several  questions from the class. How does this story relate to YOUR life?

https://vimeo.com/239942739


Adelphi Class October 22, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued
The text  of Exodus has a number of instances of God explaining his name to  Moses. Why? God says "I did not make myself known to them."  The  revelation of YHWH had not been made, so the Hebrew people did not who  God was or His characteristics. There has been a debate about the length  of the Exodus and the large number of people who crossed back into  Canaan. How could there be so many people when they only started with  about 75 Hebrews? Allen asks if the plagues were natural occurrences.  How can they be defined as miracles? Allen believes the "sequence" of  the plagues is important. Also, Pharaoh did not understand the power of  YHWH. The Lord killed the livestock of the Egyptians but not the  Hebrews. However, the heart of Pharaoh hardened. Allen lists the  plagues:
1. Blood everywhere , Egyptian priests do the same.
2. Frogs everywhere,  Egyptian priests do the same.
3. Gnats everywhere,  Egyptian priests can not do the same.
4. Flies everywhere, but NOT in Goshen
5. Sick and dying livestock from disease, but NOT the Hebrews'
Remember,  the Egyptians believed in magic. Allen observes that with ALL these  plagues shown to Pharaoh, how can he NOT let the people go?
6. Lesions affect humans and animals, and the magicians are disabled
7. Hail, lightening and fire except for the Hebrew occupied land.
8. The locusts
The  class asks if Pharaoh needed to be taught "a lesson". Allen asks us to  think about the question, "How can God be called 'compassionate'"? Some  authors have said that the God of the Old Testament is NOT the same God  of the New Testament. Allen says they are wrong.The class asks some  questions about God and free will.   https://vimeo.com/240048987


Adelphi Class October 29, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued

Ben Brumlow gives the opening prayer https://vimeo.com/240377165
Allen  says we have an assignment for next week - a discussion of free will.  Allen continues his discussion of the plagues. Pharaoh’s “cabinet” urges  him to let the Hebrews go. Allen highlights certain passages. He  explains locusts. However, when the locusts attacked Egypt, the did not  attack Goshen. Next, the plague of darkness, which is the only plague we  can’t understand. Pharaoh still did not let the people go, so the Lord  brought one more plague, the death of the first born mail children, and  also the first born animals. Next, Allen explains the Passover in  detail. 
Allen says there are three ways to look at the Old Testament:
A) Everything you read is true.
B) Some is historical, some is true, and you need to figure it out.
C) Everything you read is allegory.
A  class member asks how do we equate Jesus to the Passover? Allen reminds  us that some events in the Old Testament occurred hundreds of years  BEFORE they were written about. Allen shows a map of the Exodus and  suggests the location of the “crossing of the Red Sea”. How does this  relate to the three ways to look at the Old Testament? https://vimeo.com/240377922


Adelphi Class November 5, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued

Pat Hodges gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/241511630
Allen  shows a map of the Exodus, which includes 15 possible locations for  Mount Sinai. He also discusses the location of the crossing of the Red  Sea. These events occurred about 3,000 years ago. Allen reviews chapter  15 and how it describes the events. When was this scripture written?  Next Allen discusses the puzzle of the Tent of Meeting. How did this  compare to tents in Egypt? What happens to the Tent of Meeting when it  becomes a permanent structure? The class asks several questions. What  about contemporary worship facilities? How does the look and feel our  worship facilities relate to the church's mission? https://vimeo.com/241512145


Adelphi Class November 12, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued

Raul Arredondo gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/242467326
Allen  notes that the Hebrews did NOT wander for 40 years, rather 17 months  after which they settled in Kaddish for 38 years. How many provisions  did they have? Later, Allen gives us the definition of “Manna”. What is  the difference between “homer” and “omer ”? What happened when the  people made idols from gold? What did Moses have the Levites do? Allen  adds some scripture from Numbers. The story of the Exodus is actually  found in several different books of the Bible. https://vimeo.com/242467649


Adelphi Class November 19, 2017 The Ten Commandments
Phil Mabry gives the opening prayer.  https://vimeo.com/243556164
Allen  starts in Exodus , chapter 19. How many times did Moses and God speak  face to face? Next, a brief look at 1 Peter 2:9-10 - a New Testament  view. Back to Exodus, and how the people were consecrated. How is the  “third day” significant? Allen makes observations about Mount Sinai  using Exodus, Leviticus and Numbers. This shows some confusion about the  actual location of Mount Sinai. Here is a link to more information  about Mount Sinai: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Sinai
Next,  a reference to C. S. Lewis. Next, observations about the Ten  Commandments. It’s very interesting seeing the Commandments described in  detail. https://vimeo.com/243556333


Adelphi Class November 26, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued

Philip Pena gives the opening prayer.  https://vimeo.com/244742871
Allen  shows us a map of possible journeys of the Hebrews in the Exodus. He  marks their location after 3 and 11 months. They then spent 38 years in  Kadesh. Next, Allen gives us some history of the area and a different  possible map of the Exodus. What is the most popular Old Testament book  for the Jews? Next, Numbers 20:8. Next, Allen reviews 3 of the 10  Commandments (in some detail). Allen includes a written statement by the  Methodist church about the Ten Commandments. Do you agree with this  statement?  https://vimeo.com/244743015


Adelphi Class December 3, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued
Wayne Wetzel gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/245805608
Allen  begins in Numbers 13. As the Israelites found the land of “milk and  honey”, what did “40 days” really mean in the Bible? After they saw  themselves as “grasshoppers”, what did the people say to Moses and  Aaron? Why did the spies tear their clothes? What does the Lord say  about the people’s complaints? Allen adds some of his own comments.  Allen shows a map of the traditional route of the Exodus. Where does  Moses lead the people after the sinning generation dies? How many were  they? Next, Numbers 20. What WAS the problem for the people and God?  Allen gives us a preview of next week’s lesson.  https://vimeo.com/245805908


Adelphi Class December 10, 2017 Moses, The Reluctant Prophet, continued

Cheryl O'Brien gives the opening prayer: https://vimeo.com/246845131
Allen reviews the history of the journey to the Promised Land. First, Numbers 20:8. What happened to Moses and Aaron?
Allen  gives us some advice from the author of his study book by Adam  Hamilton. What is a particular “evil” today? Allen gives us an important  verse from Deuteronomy 6. Allen asks the class to name some current  things we “worship” today. Allen gives us the description of Moses’  death. What does this teach us about OUR promised Land? https://vimeo.com/246845789


Adelphi Class December 17, 2017  Rethinking the Meaning of the Cross
Ben Brumlow gives the opening prayer.  https://vimeo.com/248029669
Allen  reviews his study book, “The day the Revolution Began” by N.T. Wright.  The story begins in April, 33 A.D. How would a newspaper cover the death  of Jesus? Allen gives us several “headlines”. Who invented Crucifixion?  What did EARLY Christians believe about Jesus? What did they believe  about their role? Next, Allen gives us some scripture about why Jesus  came to us. What about Purgatory? Allen shows a photo of the “Jesus  Army” in England in 1960. Allen discusses a religious art exhibit in  London in 2000. Allen gives other examples of the meaning of the cross.  What about dealing with evil? The class asks Allen several questions. https://vimeo.com/248029924


Adelphi Class 12-24-17 Rethinking the Meaning of the Cross, continued
Jim Stephens gives the opening prayer. https://vimeo.com/248792847
Allen  follows up on the research of Dr. Wright about what actually occurred  in the 1st century. What was said by the people who lived through the  Crucifixion? Allen mentions three contexts in which the Crucifixion  finds its meaning. How did Caesar’s census affect the Nativity? How were  the Roman Caesars judged after their term? Allen now discusses the  writing of Homer and Virgil. How did these writings compare to the  Christian view? What about the interpretation of “Salvation”? Allen  returns to a discussion of Crucifixion. How did they view “the cross”? https://vimeo.com/248793025 
PS A class member found a YouTube of one of Dr. Wright's lectures, but there is a copyright against "re-distribution."


Adelphi Class 12-31-17 Rethinking the Crucifixion
Ezra Charles gives the opening prayer.  https://vimeo.com/249419951
Allen  begins with a review of the history of the Crucifixion. What did it  mean when Pilate wrote  “The King of the Jews” on Jesus’ cross? What was  Pilate's function, according to Rome? Allen explains several quotes  which date several hundred years BC. Returning to the Crucifixion, Allen  discusses the early debate about its meaning. Next, John 11:50. What  about sacrificial death? Allen talks about the number of Synagogues in  Jerusalem. Next, Allen tells us about the numerous festivals and holy  days for the Jews. Next, quotations from Daniel and Jeremiah. Allen  takes questions from the class.  https://vimeo.com/249421965

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