FREE YAHWEH LESSON. Life Bible Study course options Your free lesson. Your free download includes:

FREE LESSON YAHWEH Your free download includes: Life Bible Study course options Your free lesson FREE LESSON through the bible Our 48-lesson studi...
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FREE LESSON

YAHWEH Your free download includes:

Life Bible Study course options Your free lesson

FREE LESSON through the bible Our 48-lesson studies are designed to engage groups in exploration and discovery of God’s promises. Diving into the Old and New Testaments, these studies provide a collective understanding of true spiritual growth and insight into God’s masterful plan. Choose from three yearlong courses!

YAHWEH: Divine Encounters in the Old Testament

Encounter the living God through 48 chronological lessons from the Old Testament. Discover His progressive movement in the lives of people, His awesome plan for mankind, and His unconditional love for His creation.

EKKLESIA: The Unstoppable Movement of God

Marvel at the power of God with the birth and growth of the new church. Despite persecution and hardship, the Gospel spread! Ekklesia explores Paul’s adventures and Peter’s bold sermons in Acts to discover the unstoppable movement of God.

CHRISTOS: God’s Transforming Touch This chronological study of the life of Christ helps learners see God’s intentional plan for redemption. Everything from His birth to His teachings pointed to the cross and His sacrificial love for us. Encounter Christ for 48 weeks and watch lives change!

ALL ACCESS!

All Access gives you and your group the opportunity to use ALL 15 courses any way you choose. This option is great for adult ministries serving a variety of class sizes, ages, and needs. It’s a great value! YAHWEH EKKLESIA CHRISTOS

RADICAL HOW TO BE HUMAN SEALED NO EXCUSES NO MATTER WHAT JESUS FLAWED COLLISIONS UNCOMMON THE DARKEST HOURS AWESTRUCK TRANSFORMED

LIFE BIBLE STUDY • po box 36040 • birmingham, al 35236 • tel: 877.265.1605 fax: 205.403.3969 • lifebiblestudy.com

FREE LESSON Life Courses These four and six-week topical courses allow learners to gaze into the stories of Scripture and see a reflection of how God desires to work in their lives. Courses are biblically based and challenge learners to find themselves in God’s mission. Choose from twelve great options!

HOW TO BE HUMAN

This 6-week study examines selected segments from the Sermon on the Mount that best reveal “How to be Human.”

SEALED

In this 6-week study, learners discover six major roles of the Holy Spirit which help believers fulfill their calling and live out their faith in this world until they see God’s glory in heaven.

NO EXCUSES

Paul carefully and systematically explained the process of salvation and the responsibilities that salvation brings. The questions he answered are as timely today as they were to his original readers.

NO MATTER WHAT

This six-week study examines the choices of two Old Testament heroes, Abraham and Joseph, to help learners see how to make decisions to honor God…no matter what.

JESUS: Image of the Invisible Jesus revealed himself as the fulfillment of Scripture, and in this six-session study, learners will gain a deeper understanding of Jesus’ place in every aspect of their lives. FLAWED: Imperfect People Chosen by God In this six-session study, discover how God doesn’t wait for us to become perfect before He uses us. COLLISIONS: My Expectations...God’s Character

This four-week study examines encounters between God and some of the first people to gain a deeper understanding of how God’s actions come from His holiness.

UNCOMMON: Compelled by God’s Call

This six-week study will help learners understand how God speaks and what God asks when He speaks. Learners will be challenged to not just hear God, but also to act on what He says.

THE DARKEST HOURS: Seeking God in Desperation

This four-week study looks into the lives of Samson, Ruth, Hannah and Hezekiah and their real-life struggles: shame, grief, loneliness and fear. Learners will find that God is near when they seek Him with all their hearts.

AWESTRUCK

The Psalms are passionate and honest, moving and convicting, transparent and complex. It could take years to study them all. In Awestruck, we’ll look at six, each of which will help us focus on our relationship with God. Each allows both the psalmist and the reader to stand awestruck in God’s presence.

TRANSFORMED

In Christ, we become new. Through the six lessons of Transformed, we’ll consider six characteristics of that transformation: identity, purpose, citizenship, actions, walk, and attitude. Allow this study to help you focus on your new identity in Christ and how He continues to help you to be Transformed into His image.

RADICAL: The Bible Study

This 8-lesson Bible study curriculum complements Dr. David Platt’s new book, Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From The American Dream. Both the book and the study will challenge learners to live radically for Christ by examining comfortable notions of Christianity today.

LIFE BIBLE STUDY • po box 36040 • birmingham, al 35236 • tel: 877.265.1605 fax: 205.403.3969 • lifebiblestudy.com

Yahweh Study Lesson: Obeying God When It Doesn’t Make Sense (Noah)

Lesson Overview Biblical Passage Genesis 6:1–22; Hebrews 11:7 Supporting Passages Genesis 7:1–9:17, Proverbs 1:7 Memory Verse Hebrews 11:7 Table Talk Question What is God’s judgment? Biblical Truth Like Noah, we must trust the Word of God and be obedient because of our faith in Him. Context Noah’s story is one of the most tragic examples of God’s wrath against sin in the entire Bible. Humanity’s wickedness had escalated exponentially since Adam and Eve’s initial sin in the garden to Cain’s sin of murdering his brother. Because humankind had become exceedingly sinful, God in His holy judgment would not tolerate their wickedness. Sometime after 5000 B.C., God flooded the entire earth. But God reached out to one righteous man and his family as a way to continue life on earth. God saw this man’s character and called him to an incredible act of faith. This man, Noah, built an ark, and God used that ark to provide salvation from the waters. In the 48 moments of this Bible study series, this lesson continues to show that God had not given up His purpose in creation. Though God’s judgment on sin was real and horrific, it was not His final word. The moments to follow Noah’s story would increasingly reveal that the perfect remedy for sin was on His way. Learning Goals Learners will understand that obedience to God often runs contrary to the wisdom of the world. Learners will understand how to apply God’s Word in situations where it seems foolish to do so. ● ●

Prayer Suggestions As you prepare to teach this lesson, pray for those in your group. ● ● ●

Pray that learners will see how their hearts and beliefs affect the way they live and impact their world. Pray that learners will hunger and thirst to know God and the righteousness He gives. Pray that the Holy Spirit will guide you in wisdom and knowledge as you lead this study so you will hear the heart of God, see the hearts of your learners, and serve as a bridge between the two.

Commentary Investigation Genesis 6 gives a dark picture. The earth was similar to a disaster area. Humans acted proud and ruthless. In fact the primary sin in Genesis 3–9 was violence (Gen. 4:8, Gen. 4:23–24; Gen. 6:11, Gen. 6:13). God “was grieved,” and His “heart was filled with pain” (v. 6). God still loved the world, and He was (and is) always holy. But because of His justice, He had to bring judgment of sin. God chose to utterly destroy humankind. However, there was one ray of light: Noah. Noah found favor with God. One just and upright man had a different lifestyle that stood out from everyone around him. He showed loving obedience to God. So God saved this one family. Noah trusted and obeyed God because he had faith in Him (Heb. 11:7). The ancient Babylonians wrote a story called Gilgamesh that also tells of a great flood. In their account the noisy humans angered the gods because they disturbed their sleep. This prompted the gods to try to destroy the humans by flood. Through Noah’s story we see a remarkable encounter with God. Scripture does not include drowning by chance or irritable gods perturbed with bothersome people. God destroyed an immoral world filled with decadence. He preserved only Noah and his family. The Flood happened for a moral reason. The earth and everyone in it was completely corrupt. Widespread violence was evident. During this time “the sons of God” married and bore children by the “daughters of men” (Gen. 6:4). With the population explosion came the explosion of immorality. Noah, however, lived as a righteous man. He was blameless and walked with God despite all the struggles of his daily toils.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Copyright © Clarity Publishers, Inc., 2009. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of LifeBibleStudy curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

LIFE BIBLE STUDY • po box 36040 • birmingham, al 35236 • tel: 877.265.1605 fax: 205.403.3969 • lifebiblestudy.com

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Yahweh Study Lesson: Obeying God When It Doesn’t Make Sense (Noah) God warned Noah of His plan to destroy the corrupt earth. He gave Noah detailed instructions to build a floating vessel. Noah had never experienced a flood. But he followed God’s plan. After completing God’s blueprint, the rain began, but not before he, his family, and a variety of animals stood safely aboard the ark. Noah lived in complete obedience to God. He lived by faith in the midst of wicked times. God’s covenant promise never to destroy the earth with a flood again is evident every time we see a rainbow.

Importance This passage of Scripture is important for believers to study because it provides early insight into God’s nature and character. This passage vividly shows that God Is a holy and just God who loves the people He created. Many passages in the Bible make it clear that God is both holy (1 Sam. 2:2; Jos. 24:19; 1 Pet. 1:15) and loving (Ps. 145:13; Joel 2:13). Because God is holy and just, He did not tolerate humankind’s wickedness in Noah’s day. Yet even in His destruction, God showed He valued people. He flooded the earth but still preserved humanity through Noah and his family. Knowing Him as this holy and gracious God is essential to having faith in Him through Jesus. By studying the way God dealt with Noah, believers will realize God’s holiness and grace and the importance of living by faith. This passage also touches on other key truths: People are God's Treasure and The Future is in God's Hands.

Interpretation Genesis 6:1–8 In the entire Bible, this is one of the most challenging passages to understand. It provides the background for the Flood story. It consists of two parts. Verses 1–4 describe marriage between “the sons of God” and “the daughters of men.” Verses 5–8 show God’s anger and sorrow over the wickedness of humanity. Although it is not clear exactly how these marriages related to the wickedness of Noah’s day, it appears they illustrated the sinfulness God condemned (vv. 5–8). Who were “the sons of God”? What was the nature of their marriage to “the daughters of men”? Historically, Jewish and Christian interpreters proposed these views. First, they could have been sinful angels who molested human women and had children by them (known as the “Nephilim”). Another option is that they were the descendents of Seth (godly men) who married ungodly women, namely, the descendants of Cain who bore the infamous “heroes of old” (v. 4). The two viewpoints hold something in common: the idea of breaking divinely ordained boundaries. In the first view the angels left heaven and married humanity (Jude 6). In the second view the righteous lineage of the Sethites (Gen. 5) married outside their family (Cainites—Gen. 4:17–24). The passage therefore can be safely said to show one thing: Sinful results come when a society neglects God’s ideal for marriage (Gen. 2:24). The consequences of their actions resulted God’s limit of the human lifespan to about 120 years (v. 3). The mention of “the Nephilim” also presents interpretation problems. In addition to the translation problem of the Hebrew, there is a more important difficulty. How should one relate the presence of the Nephilim to the marriages of “the sons of God” and “the daughters of men”? One early view believes they were the offspring of the marriages. But the phrase “and also afterward” implies the Nephilim existed before and after the marriages. The verse labels their children as “the heroes of old, men of renown.” “Heroes of old” were known for their fierce violence. They were feared tyrants. Whoever these people were, they acted so wickedly it grieved the heart of God that He had made them. Humanity grew in population and also in moral perversion. In God’s view society had decayed beyond recovery. God saw and grieved. He declared His own voice would destroy what His own hands had formed. God saw the inclinations of the human heart were entirely wicked (Gen. 6:5; 8:21). The heart forms the center of human thinking (Mark 7:21–23). This passage draws a parallel between humanity’s hearts filled with evil and God’s heart filled with pain. God’s pain, however, was not sorrow over a mistaken creation. It was sorrow over what sin had done to humanity. Making humans was no error on God’s part; the error lie in what humans made of themselves. God proclaimed He would destroy every living thing—humans, bird, and beast (v. 7). God declared wrath against the birds and animals, too. Sin polluted all creation humanity had charge over (Gen. 1:26–28). Yet hope remained. In the midst of this disastrous predicament, Noah stood apart from his sinful generation (v. 8). The phrase “found favor in the eyes of the Lord” means that God approved of Noah (also used of Joseph in Gen. 39:4). The idea of God’s sight of Noah (“eyes”) echoes the sinful times God “saw” (v. 5). Noah stood apart as favored. God showed His favor when He provided an escape for Noah and his family (1 Pet. 3:20). Genesis 6:9–10 Noah was “blameless” (v. 9). This word means a morally complete or sound lifestyle (Deut. 18:13). The same word described Abraham (Gen. 17:1) and Job (Job 1:1). This does not mean Noah lived sinless, but he lived his daily life ethical and devout (1 John 1:8–9). The passage does not tell about a particularly righteous act. The author gave a general All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Copyright © Clarity Publishers, Inc., 2009. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of LifeBibleStudy curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

LIFE BIBLE STUDY • po box 36040 • birmingham, al 35236 • tel: 877.265.1605 fax: 205.403.3969 • LIFEBibleStudy.com

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Yahweh Study Lesson: Obeying God When It Doesn’t Make Sense (Noah) description of Noah as a man who “walked with God” (v. 9). The Bible says the later patriarchs walked “before” God (Gen. 17:1; 24:40; 48:15), but only records that Noah and Enoch (Gen. 5:22, 24) walked “with” God. Verse 10 repeats the genealogy in Genesis 5:32. This calls attention to the development of Noah’s chosen line of blessing. Genesis 10 will look to Noah’s three descendants as the foundation of all nations. Genesis 6:11–12 Three times the passage declares the earth was “corrupt.” This word underscores God’s reason for judgment. “Violence” (v. 11) referred to physical abuse and even murder (Judg. 9:24). Noah’s times were characterized by spilling innocent blood. This is similar to Cain’s murder of Abel (Gen. 4:8–10). Murder had reached epidemic proportions. God had blessed the earth with Adam and Eve; they were to fill the earth with children (Gen. 1:28). But their family also filled the earth with immorality. Genesis 6:13–22 God’s first speech to Noah gave detailed instructions: Noah would build a sea vessel and recruit its occupants. God made two announcements followed by two instructions. Noah followed the instructions completely (v. 22). God told Noah doom on humanity was just around the corner. He then explained how He would rescue Noah and his family. Noah would build an ark. Noah was not a sailor. He was not familiar with floating vessels. Yet God gave instructions for a perfectly seaworthy craft complete with rooms and a pitch sealant. With exact proportions, Noah built the ark to God’s specifications (v. 22). Verse 17 restates God’s determination to destroy everything with breath. The language “all life” and “everything” indicated the flood would cause a worldwide catastrophe. Out of this calamity, God saved a remnant and made a covenant with Noah. The covenant represented God’s gracious decision to spare Noah and his family. Noah rested on God’s promise as he and his family faced the disaster to unfold before them. Verses 19–21 describe the people in the ark. God instructed Noah to gather a representative group of animals, “two of all living creatures.” These creatures would replenish the earth. Verse 22 parallels the completeness of the impending destruction with the completeness of how Noah finished his task. Noah did “everything just as God commanded him.” Noah built the ark on dry land while waiting for the floodwaters. This act was exemplary of a person trusting in what was not seen or proven—faith. Hebrews 11:7 “By faith” Noah completed an assignment he did not fully understand. The purpose of his task was “not yet seen” until it started raining and the floodwaters lifted the ark from its resting place. His faith was justified, and by it the world’s faithlessness was judged. Noah was counted among God’s righteous ones who live by faith. He “became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.” Noah’s actions model the obedience and effectiveness of faith placed in the truth of God’s Word.

Implications This passage is especially important for new believers who are learning what it means to live by convictions. Our society can seem very double minded. Movies, music, magazines, and art reflect a decadent trend toward violence and sex. Yet religious life thrives, proven by the weekly church and synagogue attendance, the growing industries of religious music and films, and the Christian witness of celebrities and athletes. Simply turn on the TV or radio, and the competing voices ring clear. We must wrestle with these competing voices every day. In the midst of all of this, remember that God is holy and just, as well as loving and gracious. Noah did not surrender to the allure of a sinful generation. He maintained his faithfulness and purity when all others followed immorality. The New Testament identifies Noah as a “preacher of righteousness” (2 Pet. 2:5), but he had few converts! What do you think kept him standing firm when he faced the evil of his day? Noah understood the truth that God Is, and he acted accordingly. People who understand this truth as Noah did place unwavering faith in God even when His commands seem unusual or foolish from a human perspective. Understanding His all-powerful ways and holiness calls for a submission to do what He says regardless of the consequences. People who do not understand this truth have a faltering faith dependent on who they are or what their circumstances are—rather than who God is.

Teaching Plan Fun: Noah Song (10 minutes, easy set-up) Download “Noah Song.” Print a copy. Write the song on a dry erase board. Divide the class into two teams. Ask someone to sing, “Old MacDonald Had a Farm, E-I-E-I-O.” Explain that the class will sing this song, but with the words on the board. Pick a team to sing first. Tell them to name an animal in the lyrics. At the noise part, choose someone from the other team to make the animal sound. If the learner does not know the sound of the animal,

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Copyright © Clarity Publishers, Inc., 2009. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of LifeBibleStudy curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

LIFE BIBLE STUDY • po box 36040 • birmingham, al 35236 • tel: 877.265.1605 fax: 205.403.3969 • LIFEBibleStudy.com

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Yahweh Study Lesson: Obeying God When It Doesn’t Make Sense (Noah) the singers win a point. Play a practice round first. Play until all have provided an animal. Conclude: Today we will see the significance in Noah building an ark to hold two animals of every kind. Discussion: Faith (7–9 minutes, easy set-up) Discuss: Some say skepticism and doubt are opposite of faith. Do you think so? Allow responses. Say: Has anyone heard the Bill Cosby comedy routine about Noah? God asks Noah to build an ark. Noah responds with skepticism. He asks God, “What’s an ark?” Discuss: If Noah had known all the details of God’s request ahead of time, would it have required faith on his part? Point out that faith deals with things unseen and not yet achieved. Discuss: How does doubt relate to faith? Allow responses. Say: Christian writer Frederick Buechner wrote, “Doubts are the ants in the pants of faith. They keep it awake and moving.” Wilson Mizner, an American playwright in the early 1900’s, said, “I respect faith, but doubt is what gets you an education.” Ask: Is doubt wrong? Does it motivate faith? Ask a learner to read Hebrews 11:1. Ask: If something unseen is hoped for, would you call it certain or uncertain from a human viewpoint? (uncertain) Connect the ideas of faith to real life. Discuss the following: ● ● ● ●

How would you describe the role of faith in most people’s lives? In what ways do different people view faith? How do people define faith? What is faith’s role in a Christian’s life? How does faith impact the way you live? How does faith help you? Can it hurt you?

Say: Today we will look at how Noah’s faith impacted his life and the world. Current Event: Modern Disasters (5–6 minutes, easy set-up) Download “Modern Disasters.” Print a copy to read aloud. Read “Modern Disasters” to learners. Discuss: ● ● ●

How do you feel about the possibility of disasters that could be described in terms of “biblical proportions”? Does it scare you? Why or why not? Do you actively worry, or do you prefer not to think about it?

Conclude: Today we will study a event that set the bar for disasters of biblical proportions. Visual: Life Stories: Belton Y. Cooper (5–10 minutes, DVD required) Provide a TV and DVD player and prepare to show the video Life Stories: Belton Y. Cooper from the Life Bible Study Yahweh DVD. Play the video and then ask the following: ●

● ● ●

Have you ever been in a situation where you found it difficult to be obedient to something you had been told to do? Why was it so difficult? Did it seem any easier after the fact? Would you do it again?

Once the group has had time to discuss their answers, remind the group that there is any number of reasons that a person might find it difficult to be obedient in a particular situation. Say: Today we’re going to look at someone who was obedient when God’s command was possibly the craziest thing he had ever heard. Relational: Outsiders (8–10 minutes, easy set-up) Divide into groups of three or four and call out the following questions for groups to discuss: ● ● ● ● ●

Can you describe a time in your life when you felt like an outsider? How did you feel? How did you respond? How did others treat you? How did the way others treated you influence the way you responded?

Conclude: Today we will see how one man resolved to follow God even when it meant he would be a total outsider.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Copyright © Clarity Publishers, Inc., 2009. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of LifeBibleStudy curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

LIFE BIBLE STUDY • po box 36040 • birmingham, al 35236 • tel: 877.265.1605 fax: 205.403.3969 • LIFEBibleStudy.com

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Yahweh Study Lesson: Obeying God When It Doesn’t Make Sense (Noah) Interactive Core Study: Obeying God (15–20 minutes, easy set-up) Download the Bible Study Worksheet. Provide a copy for each learner. Provide pens, a dry erase board, and markers. Display the God Is essential truth poster. 1. Character is essential to obeying God in tough times (Gen. 6:1–9). Distribute the worksheet. Ask a volunteer to read Genesis 6:1–7. Ask: What did God see, and how did He feel? (He saw humanity’s great wickedness, that every heart was inclined toward evil. God felt grief and pain.) Write responses on the board. Ask: What was God’s remedy for wickedness? (He would wipe humanity from the earth.) How does He describe humanity in verse 7? (“whom I have created”) How does that description help you understand God’s grief over their actions? (A holy God, full of love, created people who loved sin, which caused His heart to grieve.) What do those truths about God mean for life today? (God loves people but cannot tolerate wickedness because He is holy.) Explain that despite rampant sin, all hope was not lost. One man found favor with the Lord. Ask a volunteer to read Genesis 6:8–9. Ask: What did God see in Noah that He did not see in others? (God saw Noah as blameless among the people of his time.) Why did Noah know God in a way others did not? (“Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God”— v. 9.) Tell learners to write character in the first blank. Point out that God grieved at His heart because humanity’s thoughts and actions ran contrary to who God is. But, Noah found favor because he pleased God and knew God. He had a history with God, for, as Genesis 6:9 points out, Noah “walked with God.” This was a current state of their relationship, built upon years of Noah believing and trusting God. 2. Walking closely with God develops faith for an unsure future (Gen. 6:11–13, Heb. 11:7). Read Genesis 6:11-13. Say: Noah believed God was true, so he lived contrary to the evil world around him. Discuss: Do you think people who knew Noah saw a difference in him? How do you think they felt and reacted toward him? Direct learners to look at the God Is essential truth poster. Ask: How do you know Noah believed this truth? (Noah knew that God is and knows all things, so he built the ark. His actions prove his faith.) Ask a volunteer to read Hebrews 11:7. Ask: How did Noah’s faith affect his actions? (His fear of the Lord caused him to live differently from the world.) How did Noah’s life affect the world around him that eventually died? How do you think it affected his family? (Noah’s choice to obey God saved his family and future generations through his family.) Write responses on the board. Point out that Noah’s faith that God Is makes the difference in this story. It set him apart and led him to build the ark. Noah had faith in God and acted on his belief. Our faith, beliefs, and expectations of God affect how we obey God. Tell learners to write faith in the second blank. 3. Obeying God will often require sacrifice and hard work (Gen. 6:14–22). Encourage learners to write sacrifice in the third blank. Ask a volunteer to read Genesis 6:14–22. Ask: From a human perspective, how would you describe this blueprint for a boat? (Possible answers: crazy, doubtful, huge, difficult to build, and unbelievable) Point out Noah’s history with God helped him believe God would do what He said. Noah obeyed when God said He would save humanity and earth’s creatures through Noah and an ark. Scripture gives no indication that Noah doubted God, nor wavered in his action, no matter how long it took. Some traditions suggest the ark took 120 years to build. To further process the story of Noah, discuss the questions listed on the Bible Study Worksheet. Master Teacher Core Study: Obeying God (15–20 minutes, easy set-up) Download the Master Teacher Outline. Print a copy for yourself. Download the Bible Study Worksheet. Provide a copy for each learner. Also provide pens. Display the essential truth poster God Is. Use the Master Teacher Outline to teach Genesis 6:1–22 and Hebrews 11:7. Then divide into small groups and discuss the worksheet questions: ● ●





What other biblical stories does Noah’s story remind you of? What was the result? Can someone obey God without faith? Can a person go places for someone or something he or she does not believe in? Would you want God to call on you to do something that in the short term brings ridicule, but in the long run benefits everyone? How difficult would it be for you to follow God if you thought your friends and neighbors might think less of you?

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Copyright © Clarity Publishers, Inc., 2009. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of LifeBibleStudy curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

LIFE BIBLE STUDY • po box 36040 • birmingham, al 35236 • tel: 877.265.1605 fax: 205.403.3969 • LIFEBibleStudy.com

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Yahweh Study Lesson: Obeying God When It Doesn’t Make Sense (Noah) Context Study: Ark Size (8–10 minutes, easy set-up) Download “Ark Size.” Print a copy. Hang the Old Testament Timeline on the wall. Provide a yardstick. Ask: What is a cubit? Explain that a cubit was roughly the length of someone’s arm from the fingertips to the elbow, about half a yard, or 18 inches. Hold up the yardstick and explain that God told Noah to build a vessel 300 cubits long, 50 cubits wide, and 30 cubits high. Tell learners that the dimensions of the ark were 450 x 75 feet. Have a volunteer measure your classroom. Ask: Based on your measurements, how many rooms this size would fit on one floor of the ark? (If the room measures 15 x 25 feet, then 90 classrooms would fit on one floor.) Read “Ark Size.” Ask: How much perseverance would it take to build something this size without modern tools? Some traditions speculate it took Noah 120 years to build the ark. Point out on the Old Testament Timeline that this event took place in the primeval period before the discovery or use of metal tools. Point out the difficulty in building the ark, especially with as much time spent making the tools for building, as building it. Discuss: ●



● ● ●

Could Noah have built the ark without the community knowing? (The ark was certainly larger than other buildings, so probably not.) Describe some of the tasks Noah did to build the ark. (He gathered exact materials; he found gopher wood and cut it to size; he covered the ark inside and out with pitch.) What do you think made Noah continue working despite the difficulties he faced? (his faith in God) How do you think Noah’s neighbors reacted to his project? (They probably ridiculed him.) What was the end result of his faith? (His family was saved, and human life continued.)

Closer Look: God's Grief (3–4 minutes, easy set-up) Briefly discuss these questions: ●





What do you feel when someone you care about unintentionally does something you do not like? Do you feel unknown? How do you feel when someone you care about intentionally does something you do not like? Do you feel betrayed? How would you feel if he or she kept repeating the behavior, and it kept getting worse? How long would you stay friends?

Read Genesis 6:6. Point out that the English translation puts human limitations on God that the Hebrew text did not intend. God is not just reacting emotionally. He sees and feels the need for justice, to rectify conditions so His holiness can abide. God does feel grief, but His motivations are always for His Kingdom and for His creation to know and love Him and be known and loved by Him. He does not react emotionally as we do. He responds according to His Word. Ask: Does this contradict your view of God? Ask someone to read Psalm 14:1. Ask: How does this verse expose the people of Noah’s day? (Humanity was evil because they said in their hearts there was no god. But, Noah did not.) Read 2 Chronicles 16:9. Ask: How does this verse describe what happened in Noah’s day? (Noah acted different from everyone around him because his heart was fully committed to God.) Ask volunteers to read Proverbs 4:23, Proverbs 16:9, Mark 7:21-23, and Luke 6:45. Ask: What affects the way we live? (the heart, or the heart’s beliefs) How do these verses help you understand why sin was so rampant in Noah’s day? How do they challenge you spiritually? (Realizing the heart is the center of life drives us to passionately seek righteousness in our hearts.) Comparative Study: God's Judgement (5–6 minutes, easy set-up) Download “God’s Judgment.” Print a copy and cut it apart. Divide learners into three groups. Distribute parts of “God’s Judgment.” Allow groups five minutes to read the passages and answer the questions. As groups finish, direct each to share with the class. Use the Answer Key to check their answers. Emphasize that Noah knew God in a way unlike anyone else. The rest of the world did not fear God, but foolishly despised His wisdom and discipline. Noah’s path led to union with God and life. The world’s path led to separation and death.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Copyright © Clarity Publishers, Inc., 2009. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of LifeBibleStudy curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

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Page: 6

Yahweh Study Lesson: Obeying God When It Doesn’t Make Sense (Noah) Discoverers: God You Can Know (5–6 minutes, easy set-up) Provide blank paper for each learner. Distribute paper. Tell learners to write the name of a person they know best and what makes their relationship with him or her so close. After about two minutes, allow volunteers to share. Briefly discuss: How can you know another person? ( Possible answers: spend time with him or her, communicate, and ask questions) How can you know God? Point out to grow in relationship with God you must spend time in Scripture. Tell how His Word exists for our relationship with Him. Say: We were created for fellowship with God. Discuss: How can we know God intimately? Point out that obeying God and knowing God work together. The point is not just to please God by good behavior, but also to know Him as sons and daughters. Noah lived blameless, but he found favor because he walked intimately with God. Tell learners to look over their lists and consider how their relationship with God can grow more intimate. Explain that they can know God as intimately as anyone on earth by spending time in prayer and His Word. After a few minutes, say: Life eternal is about exploring God’s unlimited identity and delighting in it. It is knowing Him intimately, and He knowing you intimately. Owners: Out of Step (7–8 minutes, easy set-up) Explain that believers live with a Kingdom view. Describe a time when it seemed foolish for you to follow God from a human perspective but you did so anyway because of a Kingdom view, such as, not compromising a belief that could harm your career or resisting a temptation. Say: Following God often puts us out of step with society. Divide learners into groups of three. Assign each group a life stage, and tell groups to create a scenario for when a believer might feel out of step with the world. (Possible answers are in italics.) ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

College student (not cheating on tests or papers; not compromising in social settings) Young professional (refusing to compromise to get ahead; respecting the company’s time) In a dating relationship (not compromising physically or by dating a nonbeliever) Husband (serving and valuing his wife over selfishness) Parent of small children (making family priority over job’s long hours) Parent of teenagers (not allowing some type of behavior or activity other parents tolerate) Empty-nester—retired (having heart of giving rather than spending on him or herself)

Allow a few minutes to brainstorm, and then ask groups to share. Challenge learners to hold God’s Word in their hearts and to walk in righteousness. Servants: Rain is Coming (8–9 minutes, easy set-up) Provide a dry erase board and markers. Say: A judgment day is coming, when our names will or will not be read in the Book of Life (the rain’s a-comin’). God did not ask us to build an ark, but He does want us to bring people to the ark He provided, His Son, so they may have a close relationship with Him. Explain Noah’s neighbors had trouble not noticing the ark. Divide into small groups and consider: ●



What are some ways we can build an ark? What can we do or provide publicly so that our neighbors know we walk with God? What creative and serving ways can we begin relationships that will have an impact for the Kingdom?

After a few minutes, invite groups to share. Write ideas on the board, and pick one to implement. Shepherds: Knowing God (7–8 minutes, easy set-up) Ask a volunteer to read aloud John 17:1–3, and another to read aloud Genesis 6:9. Discuss: ●

● ●

Many of you have walked with God a long time. What do you know of Him now that you thought different as a new believer? What has God asked you to do that seemed foolish at the time . . . but later you understood His purposes? When did you last invite younger believers to your home to tell them what you just shared? How did it encourage them?

Invite people in the class to share their answers. Brainstorm ideas to get together and share faith journeys with people younger in the faith. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Copyright © Clarity Publishers, Inc., 2009. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of LifeBibleStudy curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

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Page: 7

Yahweh Study Lesson: Obeying God When It Doesn’t Make Sense (Noah) Prayer Option: Authentic Experiences (7–8 minutes, moderate set-up) Download “Authentic Experiences.” Print a copy for each learner. Distribute the sheets. Say: As we close, let us spend time alone with God. Tell learners to get alone and talk to God using the sheets as a guide. Say: As you begin, take a deep breath, and say, “God, You are here and I am with you.” As you pray, seek not for a specific feeling or answer, but rather for a quiet confidence that you are talking with your Heavenly Father. After a few minutes, close with prayer.

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Yahweh Lesson 5

ROOM SET-UP Decorate the room with images and toys that represent Noah’s ark. Place a hay bale in one corner to create the scent of a place where the animals sleep.

COMPLETE SUPPLY LIST Connect . . . • • • • •

Fun: Noah Song — Copy of “Noah Song;” dry erase board; markers Discussion: Faith — No supplies needed Current Event: Modern Disasters — Copy of “Modern Disasters” Visual: Movie Trailer — Movie trailer for the movie Evan Almighty; computer; projector Relational: Outsiders — No supplies Needed

Explore . . . • • • • •

Interactive Core Study: Obeying God — Copies of the Bible Study Worksheet; pens; dry erase board; markers; God Is essential truth poster Master Teacher Core Study: Obeying God — Copy of the Master Teacher Outline; copies of the Bible Study Worksheet; pens; God Is essential truth poster Context Study: Ark Size — Copy of “Ark Size;” Old Testament Timeline; yardstick Closer Look: God’s Grief — No supplies needed Comparative Study: God’s Judgment — Copy of “God’s Judgment;” scissors

Transform . . . • • • • •

Discoverers: God You Can Know — Blank paper Owners: Out of Step — No supplies needed Servants: Rain is Coming — Dry erase board; markers Shepherds: Knowing God — No supplies needed Prayer Option: Authentic Experiences — Copies of “Authentic Experiences”

Copyright © Clarity Publishers, 2007. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of Life Bible Study curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

Yahweh: Lesson 5, Room Set-Up

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Yahweh Lesson 5, Connect

Noah Song Write the words to the following song on the board.

Good old Noah built an ark, Like God told him to. And on that ark he took two [animals], Like God told him to. With a [noise, noise] here And a [noise, noise] there; Here a [noise], There a [noise], Everywhere a [noise, noise]. Good old Noah built an ark, Like God told him to.

Copyright © Clarity Publishers, 2007. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of Life Bible Study curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

Yahweh: Lesson 5, “Noah Song”

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Yahweh Lesson 5, Connect

Modern Disasters In May 2006, television’s the History Channel premiered a series called Mega Disasters. The series talks about the way disasters have shaped the earth’s history. It visits the sites of natural or man-made disasters, such as the Mount St. Helens eruption and the land areas of the Indian Ocean struck by the 2004 tsunami, for the context of the disaster. Then it recreates those disasters in modern times and places via the computer to demonstrate their possible current and long-term effects, such as a volcanic eruption in Yellowstone National Park, an asteroid hitting Los Angeles, a tsunami hitting New York City, or an earthquake sending Memphis into the Mississippi River. The show describes itself as a “hairraising look” at our complex society’s vulnerability to nature, and the possible historical effects new disasters of “biblical proportions” could have, such as the Flood of Noah’s.

Copyright © Clarity Publishers, 2007. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of Life Bible Study curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

Yahweh: Lesson 5, “Modern Disasters”

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Interactive Core Study: Obeying God

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Yahweh Lesson 5, The Master Teacher Outline

The Master Teacher Outline OBEYING GOD (15–20 minutes, easy set-up) Use this outline and the Biblical Commentary to prepare to share the truths of this passage with learners. Encourage learners to take notes on their worksheets as you teach. The underlined words in the Master Teacher Outline correspond to the blanks on the worksheet. Introduction: Does anyone remember the Bill Cosby skit about Noah and the ark? Noah complains to God about how irrational it was to build the giant boat, known as the ark. Noah’s point was that it never rains, so why build a boat? God finally cut to the chase with Noah and said, “Hey Noah, how long can you tread water?” Many of us question the rationale of God’s commands at times. But we also know obeying God is best; we just need to figure out how to obey even when it is not the popular thing to do. 1. Character is essential to obeying God in tough times (Gen. 6:1–9). • Humankind continued to rebel after the Fall, plummeting deeper into sinful living. • Humankind violated the order God established for marriage and family relationships. • God was both grieved and angered by people’s lifestyles. • The key to Noah’s character was that he walked with God. He found favor with God (v. 8). He lived as righteous and blameless (v. 9). • Because of his character, Noah responded to God’s command to do something that did not make sense to everyone else—to build a boat for a worldwide Flood on its way. Illustration: In the 1980’s Americans lived through scandals involving several Christian televangelists. Recently, Americans were shocked by the fall of a well-known Christian leader who served as the president of The National Association of Evangelicals and as an outspoken representative of moral issues. In his own words, this man said he had lived a double life. Someone once said that our character is revealed by what we do when we are alone. Others have pointed out that character reveals itself during difficult times. 2. Walking closely with God develops faith for an unsure future (Gen. 6:11–13, Heb. 11:7). • Noah received special revelation from God about a coming disaster (vv. 11–13). • Noah learned that God Is when the first drop of rain splashed onto his face (Gen. 7:11). • Scripture commends prudent God-fearers who see danger and take refuge, and warns against being a simple person who fails to recognize danger and suffers for it (Prov. 22:3, 27:12). • God has given believers His Word and His Holy Spirit help to prepare them for the events of life by imparting wisdom and discernment (Prov. 22:3; John 16:13; 2 Tim. 3:16). 3. Obeying God will often require sacrifice and hard work (Gen. 6:14–22). • God gave specific instructions (vv. 14–16). The ark was 450 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 45 feet high—almost one and a half times the size of a football field and as high as a four story building. • It must have taken years to gather the materials to build the ark, the animals, and their food. Interactive Questions: How many actual work hours do you think it would take to build such a ship? How big of a project would this be? Do you have any projects going on that take years to complete? • •

The task did not make sense from a worldly perspective. No floods came for years while Noah built the ark. Noah’s obedience saved his family from disaster (v. 22; Gen. 7:1–24).

Copyright © Clarity Publishers, 2007. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of Life Bible Study curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

Yahweh: Lesson 1, Master Teacher Outline, Page 1

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Conclusion: Noah and his family were saved because God looked favorably on Noah. They all remained safe in the ark, but they were only in the ark because of Noah’s righteous life and faith. Being in the ark is very much like being in Christ. All who are in Christ live safe from judgment and have found favor in God’s eyes. Like Noah, we have to live out our faith in a world bent on self-gratification and sin. The best way to resist the world’s lure is to develop a deep relationship with God. Spending time with God in His Word, in prayer, and in service develops faith.

Copyright © Clarity Publishers, 2007. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of Student Life Bible Study curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

Yahweh: Lesson 5, Master Teacher Outline, Page 2

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BIBLICAL PASSAGE MEMORY VERSE

Genesis 6:1–22; Hebrews 11:7

Hebrews 11:7

By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7

TABLE TALK QUESTION What is God’s judgment?

OBEYING GOD 1. _______________________________ is essential to obeying God in tough times (Gen. 6:1–9).

2. Walking closely with God develops _______________________________ for an unsure future (Gen. 6:11–13, Heb. 11:7).

3. Obeying God will often require _______________________________ and hard work (Gen. 6:14–22).

SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS • What other biblical stories does Noah’s story remind you of? What was the result? • Can someone obey God without faith? Can a person go places for someone or something he or she does not believe in? • Would you want God to call on you to do something that in the short term brings ridicule, but in the long run benefits everyone? • How difficult would it be for you to follow God if you thought your friends and neighbors might think less of you?

FREE THOUGHT “Have courage for the great sorrows of life, and patience for the small ones; and when you have laboriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in Peace. God is awake.” —Victor Hugo All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Copyright © Clarity Publishers, 2007. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of Student Life Bible Study curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

LIFE BIBLE STUDY • po box 36040 • birmingham, al 35236 • tel: 877.265.1605 fax: 205.403.3969 • LIFEBibleStudy.com

ARK SIZE

Copyright © Clarity Publishers, 2007. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of Life Bible Study curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

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Yahweh Lesson 5, Explore

God’s Judgment Divide learners into three groups and assign one of the sections below to each. Cut apart the page without answers and distribute it to learners. Answer Key

GROUP 1 Read Deuteronomy 30:19, Jeremiah 18:7–12, 8:6, 26:13, Joel 2:13, Jonah 3:9–10, and 2 Peter 2:4–9. What do these verses indicate about God’s standard of judgment? (God righteously judges people based on His holiness, their actions in relation to His holiness, and their willingness to repent.) What choice has God given humanity since Eden a choice? (God gave humanity the choice between life and death, the opportunity to repent, to turn back to Him.) What does God desire all to choose? (life) God’s judgment on the earth for its violence brought total devastation, except for a covenant of love He established with Noah to save a remnant of humanity and the animals of His creation. God was not glad to pronounce this judgment; people’s choices grieved His heart. He wanted to spare humanity, but only found Noah righteous.

GROUP 2 Read Colossians 2:11–14, Hebrews 9:27–28, and 1 Peter 3:18–22. How are we saved from God’s judgment? (Placing our faith in Christ’s righteousness and His death on our behalf saves us from God’s judgment.) Just as Noah’s choice to have a blameless life before God spared a remnant of humanity, so our faith in Christ is the choice that saves us from judgment to know God eternally. God’s judgment is the natural outcome of humanity’s choice between life and death—life being found in relationship with Him, death being found separated from Him.

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Yahweh: Lesson 5, “God’s Judgment, Page 1

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GROUP 3 Read Proverbs 1:7, Romans 8:1–14, and 1 John 4:18. What is the fear of the Lord? (having a reverence or respect for God) How do we fear the Lord? (by obeying His Word and praising Him) According to Romans 8, what empowers us to fear the Lord? (the Holy Spirit living in all believers) The fear of the Lord is not a fear of His judgment, but out of reverence fearing anything that might tarnish the relationship. It involves high respect. As children of God, we have a perfect, wholly restored relationship with God. And there is no need for fear of condemnation in that type of relationship. We can know God. ------------------------------------Cut here and distribute to learners-----------------------------------

GROUP 1 Read Deuteronomy 30:19, Jeremiah 18:7–12, 8:6, 26:13, Joel 2:13, Jonah 3:9–10, and 2 Peter 2:4–9. What do these verses indicate about God’s standard of judgment? What choice has God given humanity since Eden a choice? What does God desire all to choose? God’s judgment on the earth for its violence brought total devastation, except for a covenant of love He established with Noah to save a remnant of humanity and the animals of His creation. God was not glad to pronounce this judgment; people’s choices grieved His heart. He wanted to spare humanity, but only found Noah righteous.

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Yahweh: Lesson 5, “God’s Judgment, Page 2

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------------------------------------Cut here and distribute to learners-----------------------------------

GROUP 2 Read Colossians 2:11–14, Hebrews 9:27–28, and 1 Peter 3:18–22. How are we saved from God’s judgment? Just as Noah’s choice to have a blameless life before God spared a remnant of humanity, so our faith in Christ is the choice that saves us from judgment to know God eternally. God’s judgment is the natural outcome of humanity’s choice between life and death—life being found in relationship with Him, death being found separated from Him. ------------------------------------Cut here and distribute to learners-----------------------------------

GROUP 3 Read Proverbs 1:7, Romans 8:1–14, and 1 John 4:18. What is the fear of the Lord? How do we fear the Lord? According to Romans 8, what empowers us to fear the Lord?

The fear of the Lord is not a fear of His judgment, but out of reverence fearing anything that might tarnish the relationship. It involves high respect. As children of God, we have a perfect, wholly restored relationship with God. And there is no need for fear of condemnation in that type of relationship. We can know God.

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Yahweh: Lesson 5, “God’s Judgment, Page 3

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Prayer Option: Authentic Experiences

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Copyright © Clarity Publishers, Inc., 2009. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for reproduction only for the study of LifeBibleStudy curriculum by a licensed church during the licensed year. No online or other duplication is permitted.

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Page: 20