Download “In the World” for September 17, 2023 here.
A RELIABLE CHAMPION
American gymnast Simone Biles is again on top of her sport. Late last month, Biles won her eighth all-around title at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships, breaking a record that had held for nearly ninety years. Two years ago, Biles pulled out of the team finals in the Tokyo Olympics after suffering from “the twisties,” a mental phenomenon that affects a gymnast’s perception about their position in the air. Soon afterward, she and other gymnasts testified about being sexually abused by the team doctor. After two years away from competition, it appears the world’s most decorated gymnastics athlete—winner of twenty-five medals at world championships, including eighteen golds—is back.
A RELIABLE MESSENGER
One year during Jesus’ ministry, he went to Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles. Some Jewish leaders challenged his teaching, citing the fact that he hadn’t been educated in their formal system. Jesus said his teaching was reliable because he wasn’t seeking his own fame but only God’s glory. Those who are committed to accurately relaying the message of the one who sent them are reliable messengers, he said. This was in contrast to the Jewish leaders, who were perverting the message of Moses for their own gain.
- When have you or someone else made a tremendous recovery?
- What does Jesus mean by someone who “speaks on their own” (or “speaketh of himself”)?
- How can we be sure we are seeking God’s glory only and not speaking on our own?
Additional Resources
These videos and materials are for your personal use. If you show videos in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.
- Music Video, Traditional: “We Are Standing on Holy Ground” by Sandi Patty
- Music Video, Multicultural: “Emmaus Cypher” by Common Hymnal
- Music Video, Contemporary: “All I Have Is Christ” by Anchor Hymns
- Guzik’s Sermon on John 7:14–36
- Bible Project Resources on John’s Gospel
- Bible.org Commentary on John 7