This is an example of the "SOAP" Bible Study method that we are doing in Sunday School.Like I said, it is really easy, but gives great opportunity to stop and analyze a verse that jumps out to me as I read a chapter. This verse is a reminder that how we live is important and is not covered up by claims to be a church member or a Christian. The saying "Your actions speak so loudly, I cannot hear what you are saying" comes to mind!
Scripture: Luke 3:8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance and do not begin to say to yourselves, "We are sons of Abraham," for I tell you that out of these stones, God can raise up sons of Abraham.
Observation: Addressing specifically the Jewish Leaders of the day as a "Brood of Vipers". The religious elite. Jesus addressed their hypocrisy as well. NLT says "PROVE by the way you LIVE that you have repented of your sins."
Application: Like the Religious Leaders of Jesus' day, we often say "I go to church", "My family has been members of such and such church for x number of years" or "I am a Christian" and find great comfort in this affiliation. We also use these identities to overshadow a grievous list of sinful actions. This word still rings true...Prove by the way you LIVE that you have repented. Don't just call yourself a Christian.
Prayer: Father Good, Help me to realize when my actions do not speak of my servant hood to you. I do want to bear good fruit. I want people who know the way i LIVE day by day to know that I serve You and that You are Lord of my life without me ever having to tell them that I am a Christian.
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