Boys, Brews and Bible - March 7th 2023

Current Study - Children’s Bible Stories NSFW Version

Over the last couple of weeks we have started exploring the familiar Bible stories we heard as kids, but including all the bits that get left out. It has been a fun ride so far! The Bible is so much bigger, more mysterious and life giving than we imagine. But it takes some work on our part to peel back the layers. You will get out what you are willing to put in. Let’s continue to wade into the deep waters together.

Here are a few highlights from this week:

• We must learn to read the Bible through ancient eyes- The Bible was written by an ancient people for an ancient people. We miss some really important things when we come to the text with only our modern questions and ideas.

• The Bible is not a history textbook, science textbook, or guidebook for life at least the way we commonly think of these things.

• Genesis is not trying to explain to us the way the world was made or created - If you read the creation story(ies) there appears to be something there (waters) and the story is instead declaring and reminding the people of Israel that their God brings order to the chaos (and much more quickly and efficiently than the other gods of the age)

• The story of Adam and Eve and Cain and Able are actually the story of the people of Israel in miniature - reminders of a people who were captives living in exile - who they are, where they came from, and what it means to be God’s people

Devotional Thought for the week:

The Importance of Authenticity

Being authentic is important in all relationships, including our relationship with God. We can't grow in our faith if we're not willing to be vulnerable and share our struggles and weaknesses with Him. When we're authentic with God, we allow Him to work in our hearts and transform us from the inside out.

Prayer Focus

Pray that we may have eyes to see the needs of those around us and the wisdom to act on them. May we be attentive to the struggles of others and offer our support and encouragement where it is needed.

Bible Study - Looking ahead to next week: Genesis 6-9 Everyone Drowns

Take some time this week to read Genesis 6-9

The flood story is one pretty much everyone is familiar with, but this week as you read pause and remind yourselves to read it with ancient eyes. What is this story trying to tell us about the people of Israel, about God, and about the way the world is supposed to be?

• Discussion Questions:

• Take note of anything that jumps out at you. What is weird, what do you have questions about? Write these down.

• Where do you see echoes of the creation story in the flood story?

• In what ways is Noah portrayed as the “New Adam”

• The flood story is a horrific moment in Genesis - but if this story isn’t trying to report the facts of history what might this story be trying to tell us?

Resources to Drink in:

Beer Review:

Frenzy Brewing: Yeah, Yeah, Yeah (Cause I’m Blonde)

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah (Cause I’m a Blonde) is a Belgian Blonde ale. It’s easy to drink and very approachable for both experienced craft beer drinkers and those looking to transition from mass produced light lagers and cervezas. It is light, crisp and refreshing. The nose is complex and offers hints of banana and bubblegum that complement the sweet graininess from the Continental Pilsner malt we use to brew it. It has a pleasant dry finish that balances well with the moderate hop bitterness.

It pairs well with light, flavorful dishes such as salads, seafood, and chicken. Some suggested pairings include grilled shrimp, Caesar salad, and roasted chicken. The lightness and crispness of the beer complement the flavors of these dishes without overpowering them.

A Toast

Huge thank you for being a part of this community! May God bless you and keep you, may He make His face to shine upon you and give you peace this week. You have got this and God has got you! Go crush it this week! #LFG

Cheers,

Clete