In the world but not of the world

Use this news story from recent days to help your students see the relevance of this week's lesson from the Standard Lesson Commentary or Standard Lesson Quarterly.

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REMEMBERING IS APPROPRIATE

This is the time of year for "remembering" in various parts of the world. Just over a week ago, Americans remembered military veterans who have served their nation. America's Veterans Day occurs on the anniversary of the end of World War I, and the day is remembered in that light in various countries. Next Thursday many Americans will pause to remember God's goodness to the nation. A few days after that, many will "remember Pearl Harbor." And then comes Christmas, when Christians worldwide remember God's greatest gift.

 

REMEMBERING IS NECESSARY

Peter knew that remembering is not only appropriate but also necessary. With deep concern for the spiritual health of his readers, he reminds them of how important it is to develop diligently the spiritual graces of Christian character. He says they (and we) should always remember this fact. Peter pledged that as long as he lived he would continue to draw attention to the need to remember the obligation to be growing in Christ. Peter hoped that this habit would be deeply ingrained in his readers' character long after he was gone.

  1. Why is it important to reflect periodically on the personal sacrifices of those who have gone before us? What might be the result if we do not?
  2. How do passages such as, say, Hebrews 11 help put us in remembrance as Peter desires?
  3. How can older Christians use their life experiences to help the younger Christians mature spiritually without being seen as "living in the past"?
  4. What are some specific things you have been negligent about remembering? How will you do better?
  5. On the flip side, what things should we "remember to forget"?

—Charles R. Boatman

 

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