4-week series: November 5/6 – December 3/4
Wednesdays Online @ 11am
Thursdays @ 1pm, Community Classroom
For two thousand years, Christians have turned to the story and message of John the Baptist in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Our class will be guided by the book Prepare the Way for the Lord: Advent and the Message of John the Baptist by best-selling author and pastor Adam Hamilton. Join Pastor Danielle and Pastoral Intern Ian Clarke as we explore the Advent themes of John’s life and ministry and how John calls all followers of Jesus to prepare our hearts for his coming.
In each of the Gospels, the story of Jesus is intertwined with that of his cousin John, the one whom the prophets foretold would come to “prepare the way of the Lord.” When we hear the message of John the Baptist, it makes us and our world ready to receive Christ.
Adam Hamilton, senior pastor of The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, KS, leads one of the most influential mainline churches in America. Known for his impactful writing, Adam Hamilton books include best-sellers such as The Journey, The Way, 24 Hours That Changed the World, Enough, and When Christians Get It Wrong.
Books can be purchased from your favorite bookseller or click MORE BOOK INFO
This four-session class will be presented in two formats: Wednesdays at 11:00 online and Thursdays at 1:00PM in-person in the Community Classroom. Grab your favorite Bible and come for either class or join us or use the recorded sessions for a self-guided study! Please email info@tllc.org to for the online class to request the contact information.
The class includes a participant book, which is not required. If you would like your own copy of the book, please contact Pastor Danielle or email info@tllc.org ASAP to reserve a copy. If you are able to make a donation for the book, the suggested donation is $20. Please note “Pastor’s Bible Study” on your gift. Copies of the book are also available from your favorite bookseller in print or e-book.
Class Schedule:
Week 1: November 5/6
This week we begin with the Introduction and Chapter 1: The Annunciation as well as Malachi 3 and Luke 1:1-25. We’ll explore the events leading up to the birth of John the Baptist as well as the prophecy related to him as a messenger called to prepare the way for Christ. We’ll also discuss the importance of our Advent preparations and how and when prayers are answered.
Week 2: November 12/13
This week we begin with the Introduction and Chapter 2: Pregnancy – Prophecy as well as Luke 1:18-80. We’ll explore the Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth through Zechariah’s prophetic song in response to John’s birth. We’ll also discuss the importance of our Advent preparations and how “the dawn from on high [breaks] upon us” and “[gives] light to [us] sitting in darkness.”
Week 3: November 19/20
This week we continue with Chapter 3: John’s Ministry & Preaching as well as Luke 3:1-20 & Matthew 3:1-12. We’ll explore John’s appearance in the wilderness and ministry of preparation and baptism. We’ll also discuss the importance of our Advent preparations and how John is still “the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.'”
NO CLASS November 26/27
Week 4: December 3/4
This week we conclude with Chapter 4: Witnesses, Testifying to the Light as well as portions of all 4 gospels noted in the chapter. We’ll explore John’s appearance in the wilderness, where he baptized many, including Jesus himself. We’ll also discuss the importance of our Advent preparations and how John is still inviting us to “Prepare the way of the Lord.” We’ll also explore how we, like John, are called to be witnesses to the Light of Christ, especially during Advent and Christmas.