Date: April 5, 2020
Eternal Life
The Point: We can live forever in the presence of God.
Get Into the Study
Use the following illustration and question as an alternate opening to today’s session.
Toilet paper! Who would believe that toilet paper would be “the thing” many people would find difficult to get their hands on? Today, we are all modifying life and spending a few more hours at home each day. One way for your group to begin talking during this lesson to share the top three things they would each want for a three week stay-cation (you know, like a vacation where you stay home). For instance, I would want unlimited flour, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sprinkles so I could bake every day. Other people may want unlimited wifi for videos or gaming. Others may want books, puzzles, and the family pet to curl up with.
Ask, “What three things would make your stay-cation the best?”
Allow time for discussion. Follow up by highlighting that Christians can look forward to one day spending unlimited time in God’s presence. Unlike a stay-cation, we won’t have to worry about how we will fill our time or running out of basic resources. In fact, we won’t experience any pain, suffering, or sin. We will be in a perfect place and our time will be filled with praising God! Bring your group’s attention to the Point: We can live forever in the presence of God.
Dr. Beth Masters is currently working as a hospital chaplain where she engages with families, patients, and hospital staff during critical life moments. She has a Ph.D. in Christian Education from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary where she teaches Collegiate Ministry. Beth loves young adults, baking, and coffee.
Live It Out
Use the following to introduce the Live It Out section.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) has continued to spread in the United States and across the world. Governments and businesses are making changes in an effort to contain the virus. As of March 16th, eleven states had issued bans on dining in restaurants. Chick-fil-a and Starbucks were only allowing customers to get food and drinks to go. We have been given advice on hand washing and social distancing. Schools are also closing across the country.
As believers, we know that we will spend eternity in a perfect home with God where “[d]eath will be no more; grief, crying, and pain will be no more, because the previous things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4b). This is possible because of God’s love. “For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). As we continue to take precautions, we should not be consumed by worry or anxiety.
Ask: “How can our attitudes and actions in response to coronavirus show God’s love to others and point them to the promise of eternal life with Christ?”
Direct group members to the Live It Out statements.
Nikki Wilbanks grew up in Tennessee before heading to California to study literature at Pepperdine University. After graduation, she enjoyed a decade-long career as a commercial real estate appraiser and investor. Having returned to Tennessee with her husband, she is now thrilled to be a stay-at-home mom, writer, and Bible study teacher.
Additional Questions
Icebreaker
- What is something you never tire of?
- If you could know one thing about your future, what would it be?
- When has someone really given you a confidence boost?
Revelation 21:1-5
- God declares that he is making all things new. What does this mean?
- How does hope for this coming of God affect your daily life right now?
- Why do you think the concept of “new” is so important to people?
Revelation 21:6-8
- How can these verses provide comfort in times of uncertainty?
- How can these promises for the future provide comfort for the present?
- What does it mean to be the “one who conquers”?
Revelation 22:1-5
- What do you love most about the place described in these verses?
- What does it mean to reign with Christ?
- What aspect of eternity are you most curious about?
Member Extra
Send the following link to your group members as either a teaser before the group meets or as a follow-up thought:
Podcast
Click here for a 20-minute podcast for both the group member and the leader.
Magazine Article
This article complements the study. Share this link with your group members.
- Mature Living – We Shall Be Like Him–
Tips for Leading Bible Study Groups
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I appreciate the Bible studies for life extra. It is always very helpful. Thank you.