Malcolm Cox

For our teaching classes in May I have asked my friend Simon Dinning (Belfast International church of Christ) to record two classes for us on the topic of the kingdom (to riff on the theme of the coronation).  The first class is here.  I hope you find this useful for personal edification, or family group discussions. Please pass it on to your groups. God bless, Malcolm Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Introduction 2 Peter 3:15–16 Some of this material can be triggering because of abuses that happened in our past. This can be the case for both men and for women. Context Corinth: Entrepreneurial; Progressive; Cult of Aphrodite (Goddess of war and fertility); Port city (vice and visitors); Honour/shame; Diverse; Patron/client system. Las Vegas/New York. Aristophanes (c. 450–385 BC.) coined the term korinthiazesthai (“to act like a Corinthian,” i.e., “to commit fornication”) in view of the city’s reputation. Plato used the term “Corinthian girl” as an euphemism for a prostitute. The church: Divided (rich/poor); disorderly - Patron house churches - Chapters 12 and 13 between these instructions - Emphasis on everyone needing one another (12:27-31) - Love one another — be like God. The way we use our gifts is more important than the gifts themselves. The gifts are temporary. Love is permanent. - Gifts are things from God. Love is God’s nature.  1 Cor 11 Summary ‘Head’: Kephale — ‘source’, ‘leader’, or, ‘autho

Introduction My father gave me a birdfeeder for my birthday. It's one of those that you stick on to a window using suction cups. That way the birds come up close and you can eyeball them. I was warned that it might take some time for the birds to get used to the feeder. However, I was not prepared for the fact that it has taken two months before the first bird appeared. Every few days I change the bird food because it was getting damp and mouldy. I don't know how much money I spent on the bird food that I have to keep throwing onto the ground. I was frustrated, and faintly angry towards those ungrateful birds. Eventually, a pigeon found its way onto the feeder. You will see one of the first birds in the photograph on the website and attached to the podcast. It looks faintly ridiculous because it's not really the right sized bird for that feeder. However, I appreciate it's resourcefulness.  The Text “The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you w

Introduction What do we learn about Esther’s relationship with Mordecai? Obedient to him B. Concerned for him C. Protective of him D. Generous to him What do we learn about Mordecai’s relationship with Esther? B. By challenging her to accept responsibility C. Obedient - Accepts her instructions D. Cooperative - Worked with her What do we learn about men and women working together? A. Different circumstances, same devotion to God, each doing their part B. Accept their Vulnerability C. Summary Conclusion What do we learn about their work together? Gifts — They bring different gifts to the table. Opportunity — They have different opportunities because of the circumstances, and take responsibility for doing what they can. Necessary — They are necessary to each other fulfilling God's will, for their life and blessings that come to others through them Influence — Neither is dominant, both have an influence on one another Authority — Both ‘command’ the other What do we learn about God? He rewards faith —

Introduction What would it be like to preach and teach through the filter of the beatitudes? What would the impact be on us as speakers and our congregations as listeners? Today, we will look at the fourth beatitude: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”(Matthew 5:6 NIV11) The fourth beatitude follows naturally from the first three: ““Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:3–5 NIV11) 1. The Meaning in the context of the Gospel     - The call is not passive.  Although we can do nothing to ‘increase’ our own righteousness in God’s eyes, we are still responsible for hungering and thirsting after the right things.     - Perhaps it is exemplified by the attitude of Paul, “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,” (Phil

Introduction I recently returned from a teaching weekend for our sister congregation in Tallinn, Estonia. The theme was spiritual growth as seen through the lens of 1 Thessalonians. One of the sub-themes was growing together in community. The Text “Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.” (1 Thessalonians 5:12–15 NIV11) What do we learn about spiritual growth? Everything in this text is about community. Although it is appropriate to value those who lead, the responsibility for congregational well-being is shared by every member. In struggling to artic

We hope you enjoy this exciting and thorough treatment of the relationship between Deborah and the Barak. Stefan Wolmarans gives us a fascinating insight into Israel's history, and the relevance for our own times -- as revealed in Judges chapters 4 and 5. Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.  Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: [malcolm@malcolmcox.org](mailto:malcolm@malcolmcox.org).  If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://[www.malcolmcox.org](http://www.malcolmcox.org/).  Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.  “Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)  God bless, Malcolm

Introduction What would it be like to preach and teach through the filter of the beatitudes? What would the impact be on us as speakers and our congregations as listeners? Today, we will look at the third beatitude: “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5 NIV11) The third beatitude follows naturally from the first two: ““Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:3–4 NIV11) 1. The Meaning in the context of the Gospel     - Greek: ‘praus’ means, ‘gentle, humble, considerate, courteous’     - The blessing is paradoxical.  The proud, boastful and pushy seem to inherit the earth in our experience.      - Jesus = ultimate example (same Greek word in these passages….)         - ““Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28–29 N

Introduction God has been focusing my mind and heart on the theme of generosity and gratitude. Today, let me bring you the fruits of the reflection on the funeral of my father-in-law on Monday, combined with teaching about Adam and Eve on Sunday. My father-in-law had many good characteristics, but what stood out to me was his generosity. It seems this was something everyone who knew him noticed. The funeral chapel was packed, including a very large number of ex-work colleagues. At one time he oversaw 500 people in his role at work. Many of those I spoke to said he was the best boss they ever worked for. He was generous with his advice, time and always had a listening ear, even when it was not convenient for him. That generosity drew them to his funeral to express the gratitude. The day before the funeral, I spoke on the relationship between Adam and Eve. How it went from blissful to broken and the implications for male and female relationships ever since. However, although that was the intended focus, it b

Our world fractured on many lines: wealth, class, race and ethnicity, religion, age, education 1. It Was Very Good! Gen 1:31 A. Good Creation Humankind made good - not a mistake We have a role B. Role Responsible - jointly Fruitful Rule together No hierarchy C. Generosity of God Creation  Fruitfulness/stewardship Purpose After the ‘big picture’ view of Gen 1, now let’s zoom in on the detail 2. It Was Not Good, Gen 2:18 For Adam to be without a companion A. Helper ‘Eve’ - ‘life’, 3:20 ezer - other references including to God For the work - good work God has in mind for us “…’ezer is a generic term that refers to someone who contributes to completing a task or accomplishing a goal. The objective here is for the ‘ezer to partner in tending the Eden garden. Genesis does not comment one way or another on whether woman is a minor partner (contributing less than Adam), a major partner (contributing more), or an equal partner. Gupta, Nijay K.. Tell Her Story (p. 24). IVP. He is your shield and helper and your

Tuesday Teaching Tip 307 | The Beatitudes and Effective Communication: Lessons for Preachers and Teachers | “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” | Malcolm Cox Introduction What would it be like to preach and teach through the filter of the beatitudes? What would the impact be on us as speakers and our congregations as listeners? Today, we will look at the second beatitude: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4 NIV11) The second beatitude follows naturally from the first one: ““Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3 NIV11)1. The Meaning in the context of the Gospel The Pharisees were mourning over the Roman domination, and perhaps over the sins of Israel, but not their own sin. Spiritually healthy people of the Old Testament days wept when God was dishonoured. “Streams of tears flow from my eyes, for your law is not obeyed.” (Psalm 119:136 NIV11) God noticed and applauded those whose hearts were grieve

Introduction This is the second of two classes reflecting on the significance of the witnesses to the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This week's class will focus on the witnesses to the resurrection.  Who was at the tomb? The Text “Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realise that it was Jesus. He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). Jesus said, “Do not

The Text “Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realise that it was Jesus. He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ” Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And

John 20:1-18 1. Daring Discipleship A. Cross Dangerous Love - loyalty Mary M - Luke 8.1-3 Only women in all four accounts Mary mother of Jesus Did not believe - came to faith “When his family heard about this, they went to take charge of him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.”” (Mark 3:21 NIV11) “Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city. When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.” (Acts 1:12–14 NIV11) “Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be r

Introduction What would it be like to preach and teach through the filter of the beatitudes? What would the impact be on us as speakers and our congregations as listeners? Today, we will look at the first of the beatitudes: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:3 NIV11) 1. The Meaning in the context of the Gospel     - The kingdom is a key theme in Matthew. “In Matthew it is John the Baptist who first announces the coming of the kingdom of heaven', but Jesus takes the theme up in his preaching, in the sermon on the mount, in parables and elsewhere. The kingdom is the treasure beyond price, the pearl surpassing all others (13:44-46). It is what prophets and righteous men have been longing for: the day of salvation, the time when God's promises are fulfilled (13:16, 17). It is a time when moral compromises will no longer be appropriate (Matt. 5). It is thus in a real sense 'eschatological', when 'this age' will come to an end and God will rule perfectly. For Matthew

Men and Women in Christ: A Divine Harmony I am excited to announce that we are embarking on a new teaching series exploring the stories of men and women in the Bible. Through this series, we will delve into the lives, roles, and contributions of these Biblical figures and examine the relationships between men and women as portrayed in the Scriptures. Throughout the series, we will explore a wide range of topics, including leadership, family dynamics, cultural contexts, and gender roles. We will examine the lives of both well-known figures and lesser-known characters, and consider how their stories can inspire and inform our own lives. As we explore these topics, I hope that we will gain new insights into the nature of God, the complexities of human relationships, and the power of faith and redemption. My hope is that this series will help us to better understand and appreciate the rich diversity of experiences and perspectives represented in the Bible. I encourage you to join us in this journey of explora

Introduction In preparing material for Easter Sunday, I've been inspired by the conspicuous courage of the women at the cross and the empty tomb. Why did they remain in place at the cross when others fled? Why did they go to the grave when others stayed away? What does this tell us about Jesus and discipleship? The Texts "Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene." (John 19:25 NIV11) "After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come an

Introduction This is the first of two classes reflecting on the significance of the witnesses to the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This week's class will focus on the witnesses to the crucifixion and burial. Who was at the cross? * Women: Mary Magdalene; Mary the mother of James and Joseph; the mother of the sons of Zebedee; Salome; 'many other Galilean women'; the sister of the mother of Jesus; Mary the wife of Clopas. * Men: The disciple loved by Jesus     * "Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, "Woman, here is your son," and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." From that time on, this disciple took her into his home." (John 19:25–27 NIV11) * Centurion: "And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, saw how he died, he said, "Surely this man was the Son of God!" (Mark 15:39 NIV11) Who was at the bur

Tuesday Teaching Tip 305 | The Beatitudes and Effective Communication: Lessons for Preachers and Teachers | “Class 1: An Introduction” | Malcolm Cox Introduction What would it be like to preach and teach through the filter of the beatitudes? What would the impact be on us as speakers and our congregations as listeners? My father runs a Bible study group during Lent. This year, it was focused on the beatitudes. One of the attendees wondered why many churches have the 10 Commandments on display but not the Beatitudes. I thought that was an excellent question. Then, in prayer this morning, mulling over this point, it came to me that the beatitudes are meant to shape who we are as kingdom citizens and how we preachers and teachers approach our preaching and teaching. Therefore, I am beginning a new series with eight classes to follow this one based on each of the Beatitudes and how they might affect how we prepare and present God's Word. Here they are: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kin

Introduction We celebrate Palm Sunday in a few days. It is one of only a few incidents recorded in all four gospels (Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19 and John 12). I have mulled over which text to use for the Sunday lesson, finally settling on the account in Luke 19. I have chosen this one because it contains the blend and contrast of extravagant full-voiced praise, and the embracing of the tragic. Jesus weeps over Jerusalem. It reflects much of what is going on in the world today, and even in my own life. The Text ““Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!” “I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.” As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embank