One purpose of this issue of Decision magazine is to alert the reader to the enormous deception sweeping through our nation. We were founded as one nation under God. How is it that we have forsaken the foundation on which we were built? When did we throw away our moral compass? The impact is devastatingly destructive. The flood of evil, violence, immorality, corruption, greed, sex trafficking, sexualization and mutilation of children is almost beyond comprehension in a civilized society. No area of life seems to be left untouched. How do you and I uphold the truth in a world of lies?
For insight, we can turn back to the beginning of human history. Shortly after creation, the Bible describes the world as being so evil and wicked that within a few generations it provoked God’s judgment in the flood of Noah’s day. Here are three men, before the flood, who were faithful to the truth and passed it on to the generation that followed. We, too, can do the same …
I. Through Our Witness
- Who was Cain? Abel? Genesis 4:1-2.
- What were the differences between them? Genesis 4:2-7.
- Why do you think Cain murdered Abel? Genesis 4:8.
- What did God say about Abel’s blood in Genesis 4:10, which was confirmed in Hebrews 11:4? What do you think Abel’s blood “said”? Hebrews 9:22; Ephesians 1:7; John 14:6; 6:53-54.
- What do Abel and Stephen have in common? Acts 7:49-59.
- When have you shared the Gospel as it relates to your own testimony?
- Who is it that makes your witness effective? John 15:26-27; Acts 1:8.
“Who has observed your walk of daily Bible reading and prayer lived out in your life, and is walking with God as a result?”
II. Through Our Worship
- Who was Enosh? Genesis 5:6.
- What took place in his lifetime that was unique? Genesis 4:26.
- Using your imagination, why do you think men began to call on the Name of the Lord at that time?
- What are some reasons that genuine worship is contagious?
- Track the rippling effect of worship in Revelation 4 and 5, giving verses.
- Who is worshipping God because you do?
III. Through Our Walk
- What do you think it means to walk with God? Isaiah 30:21; Micah 6:8; Colossians 1:10 (NKJV).
- When did Enoch begin to walk with God? Genesis 5:21-22.
- Why would the birth of a baby prompt a parent to start walking with God?
- How long did Enoch walk with God? Genesis 5:23-24.
- What responsibilities have overwhelmed you? How have you responded?
- What implies that as Enoch consistently walked with God he became more focused on eternal, heavenly things? Genesis 5:24.
- When did you start walking with God? What perspective are you missing because you have been inconsistent?
- Who has observed your walk of daily Bible reading and prayer lived out in your life, and is walking with God as a result?
IV. Through Our Work
- Who was Noah? Genesis 5:28-29.
- What was Noah commended for? Genesis 6:8-9.
- Describe the world Noah was living in when he walked with God? Genesis 6:5, 11-12.
- What critical insight did Noah receive as he walked with God? Genesis 6:13.
- As he walked with God, what instructions did Noah receive? Genesis 6:14-22.
- What was Noah’s work? Genesis 6:13-14.
- How did working for God make a difference to Noah’s family? Genesis 7:13. To the world? Genesis 7:23.
- What is the equivalent of the Ark today? John 3:16-17; Acts 4:12; Romans 5:9-10.
- How does this apply to the work you are to do? Hebrews 9:27; Romans 1:16; 2 Timothy 1:8, 12.
- What difference does it make when you present the Gospel? Romans 10:14-15.
- Make a list of those who are in danger of judgment because they are not safely in the Ark. Then pray for them.
- Ask God to give you an opportunity to invite them to come in … to Jesus.
In these very dark and dangerous days, be faithful to uphold the Truth through your witness, worship, walk and work. Until your faith becomes sight and you see Jesus … face to face. ©2023 Anne Graham Lotz
Anne Graham Lotz has proclaimed God’s Word worldwide for more than 40 years. Her newest book, which she co-authored with her daughter Rachel-Ruth Wright, is Preparing To Meet Jesus—Moving From Salvation To Transformation. It is available to pre-order and will be released August 8 by major booksellers online.