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TCF Penn
Studying the book of Matthew
This tightly woven argument of Paul focuses on a question of status and belonging before God: How does one become a true member of God’s people? Some teachers were influencing the Galatians to believe that submitting to the Jewish law is a crucial entrance requirement. Paul, however, declares that one become a son of God only by faith in Jesus, the Son of God who died and saved his people. Come, learn about this great argument, and discuss how we may apply this in our world.
March 12, 2023 (George McFarland) | Galatians: Historical Background | Galatians 1-6 |
March 19, 2023 (Michel Hatem) | No Other Gospel | Galatians 1 |
March 26, 2023 (Michel Hatem) | Identity in Christ | Galatians 2 |
April 2, 2023 (Merle Brubaker) | Requirements to Enter | Galatians 3:1-14 |
April 9, 2023 | EASTER: NO CLASS | |
April 16, 2023 (Merle Brubaker) | The Purpose of the Law | Galatians 3:15-29 |
April 23, 2023 (George McFarland) | Slaves to Sons | Galatians 4:1-11 |
April 30, 2023 (Michel Hatem) | Two Kinds of Sons | Galatians 4:12-5:1 |
May 7, 2023 (Merle Brubaker) | Do Not Turn Back! | Galatians 5:2-12 |
May 14, 2023 (Mike Carr) | Living in True Freedom | Galatians 5:13-24 |
May 21, 2023 (Mike Carr) | Sowing to the Spirit | Galatians 5:25-6:10 |
May 28, 2023 (George McFarland) | The Cross: Our Defining Point | Galatians 6:11-18 |
To join virtually, contact George McFarland for the link.
What thoughts occur when reading the words: spiritual warfare? Perhaps persecution comes to mine, or possession, or mental illness. In C.S. Lewis’s book: The Screwtape Letters, Lewis brings to life a spiritual battle where the demon’s attacks are subtle and constant: “Indeed the safest road to Hell is the gradual one-the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts” The Apostle Paul mentions spiritual warfare as struggling “against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Eph.6:12). It is a spiritual battle that takes place every day in our lives.
The Screwtape Letters looks at theological issues mainly focused on temptation and resisting temptation. Studying a book focused on spiritual warfare and the corruption of humans is not enjoyable, it is convicting. There is the temptation to stop the study and put aside the complex reality of our continuous combat. However, we are called not to be “ignorant of his [Satan’s] designs” (2 Cor.2:11). Christ’s prayer for us is: “lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:13). Therefore, we must “be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Pet.5:8). Satan is on the prowl, but Christ is with us and will give us the power to overcome Satan and his devices.
Please join us as we use The Screwtape Letters as a springboard to dive into theological ideas of temptation, resistance to temptation, and spiritual warfare.
Tenth’s Preparation for Marriage class is a two month-long course offered during our fall, winter, and spring Bible School quarters for couples considering marriage (engaged or pre-engagement). The class meets Sunday mornings and provides a biblical, Christian perspective on marriage.
Preparation for Marriage highlights many of the practical considerations that couples sometimes overlook when taking such an important step. Topics covered include:
Registration is required to attend this class, costing $135 per couple ($67.50 per individual) to cover the costs of books and curricula. You can pay online via the registration, or by bringing a check made payable to Tenth Presbyterian Church with you on the first day of class. Each person should register separately.
Attending Preparation for Marriage class does not guarantee the availability of our facilities for your wedding. However, if you desire to be married at Tenth, you must complete this course as a couple. We provide details for planning your wedding and getting married at Tenth.