Uncovered Contradictions The Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany

 Sermon Text: Jeremiah 17:5-8

 Other Readings: 2 Corinthians 12:7b-10 and Luke 6:17-26


 

  1. What similarities do you see between Jeremiah 17:5-8 and Psalm 1 (the appointed psalm for this Sunday)?
     
  2. Only one name for God is used here, and it’s “the LORD.” What does that name emphasize about God? (Consult Exodus 34:6,7.)
     
  3. Think of someone who is going through a so-called “year of drought” (v. 8). How could you use these verses to comfort and encourage them?
     
  4. These verses picture faith, both positively (what it does/is) and negatively (what it is not/what it does not do). Pick out one phrase which describes faith and explain why it resonates with you.
     
  1. There are many, aren’t there? The biggest similarity is how both believers and unbelievers are contrasted and the same kind of language is used for each–a fruitful tree by water for believers and a dried up, good-for-nothing plant for unbelievers.
     
  2. That name emphasizes God’s faithfulness, both his faithfulness to show compassion and grace to those who trust in his promises and to show justice to those who reject his promises and will.
     
  3. Answers will vary based on the individual’s particular circumstances, but consider how these verses remind us a) that tough times in a believer’s life don’t necessarily mean God is angry with us, b) that God will not abandon us in tough times but will provide what we need for the roots of our faith, and c) even in the midst of tough times God gives each of us purpose, as we bear fruits of our faith.
     
  4. At its core, faith is trust and confidence. May God strengthen your trust and confidence in him so that you fear nothing and that you bear abundant fruits of faith!