Optional Bible Training
Objective: To teach students the importance of context when reading the Bible.
Verse: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord..." (Jeremiah 29:11)
Questions: Who is God speaking to? What is the situation of the people He is addressing?
Answer: God is speaking to the Israelites in Babylonian exile, offering them hope for the future after a period of hardship.
Verse: "Judge not, that you be not judged." (Matthew 7:1)
Questions: What is the context of this teaching? What does Jesus say immediately before and after this verse?
Answer: Jesus is teaching about not being hypocritical in judgment, emphasizing that we should first correct our own faults before judging others.
Verse: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)
Questions: Who is speaking? What is the situation Paul is in when he writes this?
Answer: Paul is writing to the Philippians from prison, expressing his contentment in all situations through Christ’s strength.