The Journey and Trinity Bible Scholars

The Journey

Matthew 16:18 and Ephesians 2:10 -20

Scripture for Nov. 15

We all have expectations about lots of things. You know, something is supposed to be a certain way. But then when it isn’t it, we’re not sure what to do. For example, we have a pretty good idea of much our water bill will be each month (or electric/gas bill). You could say we expect it to be around a certain amount. Then we get the mail and the water bill is twice as high as usual. Our expectations have not been met and we may be confused or even angry. Or let’s say we teach our child to be kind to other children. Then he or she acts out in some way. Again, our expectations have not been met and we get upset. We expect certain things from family, friends, employers and our church. Then when our expectations are not met, we have some decisions to make. How will we respond when our expectations are not met? Lots of emotions can be involved. It’s important for us to look at our expectations from time to time of other people, our church, our jobs and even God. We may just find that our expectations keep us from fully living the life that God invites us to live.

Prayer

Well God, when I really think about it, I can be quite upset when my expectations are not met by You and others. Gosh, I wonder if others and maybe even You, feel the same way about me…gives me a lot to think about, you know? Amen.


Trinity Bible Scholars

Nov. 15

Answers based on Matthew and Ephesians

1. The Gospel of Matthew begins with a genealogy. Which other book in the New Testament has a genealogy? ____________


2. What does Matthew 16:18 mean to you? _____________________


3. The city of Ephesus is in what country? __________________


4. When do scholars believe the Letter to the Ephesians was written? ______________


5. Where was Paul living when he wrote the Letter to the Ephesians? _______________