Names of God
by Ken Hemphill
Leader Guide
Non-disposable Curriculum
Auxano Press
Tigerville, South Carolina
About the Leader Guide Author
Judi Hayes is a writer and editor. She and her husband, David, live in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee.
Introduction to the Study
Purpose: Names of God
Names of God is a resource in the Auxano Press curriculum series, Non-disposable Curriculum.
This series produces new twelve- and thirteen-session curriculum books each year. Saving these
books will create for you a library of biblical studies. Watch Auxano’s website for series titles
and release dates: www.auxanopress.com. Also look on the Auxano website for additional
resources for teaching Names of God.
This and all books in this series will benefit readers as they study individually. But
learners will benefit more from group discussion and study. This leader guide will equip leaders
to teach Names of God.
The author of Names of God is Ken Hemphill. Dr. Hemphill is the founding director of
the Center for Church Planting and Revitalization at North Greenville University in Tigerville,
South Carolina. He and his wife, Paula, are owners of Auxano Press. Ken is a prolific writer and a
popular speaker. You can learn more about him by going to Auxano Press online. One of his
books, published by LifeWay’s B&H, is The Names of God. This resource, available from
LifeWay or on Amazon.com, is a great resource for this study. In it he deals with the same names
as in this Non-disposable Curriculum resource but in greater detail.
Bible study is valuable on many levels. Non-disposable Curriculum offers these benefits
for study: (1) personal discipleship and devotion, (2) obedience to study and know God’s Word,
(3) group fellowship and helping one another learn and grow, and (4) personal and/or group
prayer and worship. Thank you for leading a group to grow together as they study God’s Word.
Time Frame
In Names of God author Ken Hemphill provides thirteen short chapters to immerse learners in
studying thirteen names of God found throughout the Bible. As you study these names, you will
grow in your understanding of God, God’s revelation throughout the Old Testament, and the
many ways God relates to and cares for human beings, created by Him in His image.
Your Sunday School class, Bible study group, discipleship group, home Bible study
group, or other group can study this book in thirteen sessions, a typical quarter.
You can order the books by the case from Auxano Press (www.auxanopress.com) or
individually (in both print and electronic versions) from Amazon (www.amazon.com). You will
save money by ordering by the case. Order enough for everyone interested to have a personal
copy. Order extra copies for newcomers, for outreach, and for interested individuals who cannot
attend the sessions.
Promote this study in all ways your church shares information—on the church website,
Facebook, newsletter, and in church announcements. Order the books early enough to distribute
so those participating can read the first chapter before the first session.
Bible Study
This leader guide will assist you in teaching the book. It is designed for one-hour sessions. Adapt
the study to meet the needs of your group. A large group may require more lecture or more smallgroup discussions during each session. Small groups may allow more group discussion and
participation. You’ll find more than you need, so select items that fit your teaching style and
learners’ learning styles. Each week you’ll find a page available for you to print for small groups.
You can modify these to meet your group’s needs. Feel free to lecture some weeks, enlist others
to lecture, mix lecture and small groups, or whatever works best for your group. Purchasing
copies of Names of God for your group gives you permission to print and photocopy small-group
discussion pages.
Every learner will need a copy of Names of God from the Non-disposable Curriculum
Series. You may want to provide extra copies for members who join throughout the study and for
guests. You’ll find quantity discounts available when you order, so make sure you order enough
copies. Any extra copies are great for sharing with members who may not be able to attend,
giving guests, or making available for interested family and friends. And since all studies in Nondisposable Curriculum are undated, you’ll want to save extra copies for future studies. You’ll also
want to encourage study group members to take notes in their books and keep them to build their
own Bible study library.
Encourage all learners to bring their Bibles to each session. Every session will include
reading Scripture together. Provide extra Bibles as needed.
Although this is a book study, each chapter/session stands alone. Encourage people who
cannot attend every week to participate. Invite guests throughout the study. Use this group study
to grow your group.
Lessons always include small-group work. Questions are provided for small-group work
to guide their reports to the larger group. But answers to these questions should not be the entire
report of the small group. They are meant to enhance and not limit the small-group discussion. If
the leader chooses to lecture instead of having small groups, these questions can provide thought
for that lecture or for selected discussion questions for the entire group. The leader will want to be
prepared to add to the comments of small groups. The leader’s questions and comments that tie
the content to the church will be beneficial.
Sometimes small groups might want more information about the name of God you are
studying that week. You may want to provide commentaries. Or, if your meeting room has Wi-Fi,
encourage participants to bring and use their phones, tablets, notebooks, or laptops. During
sessions where you think this is particularly important, you may want to contact participants in
advance to bring these electronic devices.
Promote this study in advance by making announcements on Wednesday night and in
adult classes on Sunday morning and in other small groups. Contact people who are not already
involved in regular Bible study and invite them to attend.
Music
Hymns and choruses are wonderful ways to teach theology and doctrine. Hymn and chorus texts
are suggested throughout this leader guide. Sometimes singing a hymn or chorus about God’s
attributes will personalize the meaning in a way that helps learners identify more closely with the
concept. Depending on your group, you may want to open with a hymn, close with a hymn, play a
hymn, show a YouTube video of a hymn, or read one to the group. If your church has hymnals,
make them available. If hymns are in public domain, you may want to print copies for individuals
or small groups. Adding music will enhance your Bible study time and group fellowship.
Verses for Memory and Meditation
Encourage participants to read these verses every day, to think about them, to memorize them,
and to apply them to their lives.
If you go to Google Images and type in specific verses from each, you’ll find beautiful
artistic images of many of the key verses. You may want to create your own, make posters, or
send weekly e-mails with a graphic presentation of that week’s verse.
Object Lessons, Stories, Activities
You’ll find illustrative stories, ideas for object lessons, interactive ideas, and online resources
throughout. Adults learn in different ways. Using a variety of approaches in each session will
enhance learning. Personalize stories and content to make teaching comfortable for you and
relevant to your group.
Before You Begin and Preparation for Every Week of the Study
1. Make a name tag for yourself. Provide pens or felt-tip markers and name tags for participants.
If you have a large group or if you have new members or guests throughout the study,
continue to use name tags every week. You may think everyone knows everyone else. But
that’s not always the case. Name tags can even help you as you lead to call on people by
name.
2. Read or scan all of Ken Hemphill’s Names of God so you understand the direction the book is
going and how your study will flow over the next thirteen weeks.
3. Read all the Scripture mentioned in each chapter as you study it. Some Scripture passages
will be included in specific instructions. When you read all the passages mentioned, you’ll be
ready to add comments to discussions based on Scripture.
4. In advance order copies of Names of God for all participants.
5. Provide a whiteboard or flipchart and markers or chalkboard and chalk. Provide paper and
pens or pencils. Provide extra Bibles. Provide these every week. The main Bible translation
used in Names of God is the New American Standard Bible (NASB). You may want to ensure
that you have a variety of translations on hand.
6. Contact potential study group members in advance and tell them about this exciting new
study. Tell them they will gain a greater understanding of the attributed of God and what that
can mean to them as believers. Remind them to bring their Bibles to every session.
7. During the first session use the form that follows to collect contact information for all
participants. Encouragers newcomers each week to add their contact information.
8. Encourage learners to keep a journal about what they learn and their thoughts about how they
relate to God in the ways revealed by each name. You may want to provide folders for
learners to keep the papers you print and distribute. Begin with the reproducible outline
where they can add information each week about the name they are studying.
Names of God
Contact Information
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E-mail Address
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Names of God
Outline
Name
First Reference
Other References
Meaning
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Names of God
Week 1
Elohim: Powerful God
Focal Text: Genesis 1:1
Key Verse: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1
Before the Session
1. Read and study week 1, “Elohim: Powerful God,” of Names of God. Look up and read all
Scripture referenced in this chapter.
2. Make copies of the form for contact information (if you have not already gathered this
information).
3. Make copies of the Names of God Outline form for all participants. You will use this
form throughout this study. Each participant will need a copy of this form. Provide pens
or pencils.
4. Print and cut apart the group assignments.
5. Several hymns and choruses are appropriate for this study including “How Great Thou
Art” and “The Majesty and Glory of Your Name.”
6. (1) Bring a large prism. Or, if possible, give a small prism to each person. Depending on
your lighting, you may want to bring a flashlight to shine on the prism. (2) Or bring
several kaleidoscopes to pass around. You may want to buy inexpensive kaleidoscope
party favors for every person. Or you can use a computer to project kaleidoscope images.
7. Before the session, look up online the meaning of your name. Enlist a few people you
know plan to attend to look up and come prepared to tell briefly the meaning of their
name or the meaning of a child’s name and why they picked that name.
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, direct them to form small groups of four or five. Tell them to
introduce themselves to one another and tell about different roles they play in life today.
2. After everyone has arrived, joined a small group, and had opportunity to participate, tell a
story like this one, perhaps creating a similar, personal story about yourself:
Johnny and a group of his friends were playing basketball—his favorite pastime—at
the end of his driveway when his mother called him to come in for dinner. The boys kept
playing. His mother called again. They kept playing. A third time she called, “John
Thomas Richardson, get in this house right now.”
His friends laughed and said good-bye, promising to return the next day. “See you
later, Hoops,”
When he came in the back door, his dad tousled his hair and said, “Son, you need to
come on in when your mom calls you.” So Johnny hurried to wash his hands and get to
the table. As he did, he passed his older brother in the hallway. He hit Johnny on the arm
and said, “Hey, Kid, get a move on.”
Johnny, Hoops, John Thomas Richardson, Son, Kid—all of these names refer to one
person. Each name adds a little information about the same person. During this study we
will explore thirteen names of God—all names of our one God. As we study them, we
will learn more about God and all the ways He relates to us. As you shared with one
another, you learned about different aspects of each person’s life. Let’s continue to relate
to one another throughout this study, helping one another grow as believers and as friends.
3.
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I hope you will feel free to ask questions and to share insights. We’ll all be enriched as
we read and study and explore the names of God together.
Hold up the prism. As the light shines on it, move it around showing that all the colors of
the rainbow can be seen in it. (Or, say: As you look through a kaleidoscope, you see
different colors and combinations. Just by turning the kaleidoscope and looking at it
again and again, you can see slightly different views of the same thing.) Say: No one
color of a prism or one view through a kaleidoscope shows the prism’s or kaleidoscope
complete image or potential. As we understand more about the names of God, our awe
and worship and understanding of Him will also develop.
Then comment that as we study various passages of Scripture, we will learn more
about God. The Bible is a light revealing truths about God. The more we know about
Him, the more we can appreciate Him, love Him, stand in awe of Him, and strive to grow
to become more the persons He created us to be.
Continue to introduce the study by pointing out that the Bible reveals many names of
God. Our study is not exhaustive. Spend a few minutes on the Internet to add to your
knowledge. Search for “names of God.” You’ll find a variety of lists, images, and posters.
Compare some of them with the names listed in the contents of this book. You may want
to add one or two just as illustrations. Say: We can spend a lifetime studying the Bible
and trying to know God more completely. In this study we will explore thirteen names of
God and learn how these names contribute to our understanding of God’s character.
Using the introduction, talk about the importance of names. Tell the meaning of your
name and, perhaps, the reason your parents chose your name. Or tell the meaning of your
child’s name and why you chose it. Call on those you enlisted ahead of time to share the
meanings of their names. Or, if your meeting room has Wi-Fi, invite those with
smartphones to look up and share the meanings of their names.
Transition to the first name of God, Elohim. Invite participants to turn to the first verse in
the Bible. Point out that the very first sentence in the Bible points out who this Holy
Book is all about—it’s about God from beginning to end. Say: Our goal in reading it is to
know, appreciate, love, worship, and praise Him. From this first name of God in this
context of creating the world, we learn that God is eternal and powerful. He existed
before everything on earth, because He created it, and continues to exist throughout all
time.
Either lecture on this chapter or plan for small-group discussion. If you decide to lecture,
read through the small-group questions, and let them guide ideas for fleshing out your
lecture. If you plan for small groups to read content, answer questions, and report, direct
learners to form five small groups, one for each topic or subhead from this chapter. If you
plan to lecture, note the Scriptures cited throughout and ask in advance for individuals to
read Scriptures when called. If you choose to have small groups and you have such a
large group that five small groups are still too large for everyone to participate, form
multiple groups for each topic. Give groups their discussion questions. Make sure all
groups have Bibles. If your room has Wi-Fi, suggest that some group members may want
to go online to explore aspects of their assignment or related Scriptures. Bible Gateway
(www.biblegateway.com) is one website that offers many Scripture translations as well
as online commentary. If you have favorite websites, you may want to post them for
participants or consider sending them to the group in an e-mail during the week so they
can explore them on their own as they continue their study. If your church has a library,
you may want to provide commentaries each week for learners to explore.
Allow small groups to discuss their topics and then call for their reports. As they give
their reports, affirm their work, comment in response to their answers, and ask additional
questions for discussion.
9. Close the session with a time of prayer. Explain that most of us are good at intercession.
We pray often for needs we have and for others. Many of us are also good at giving
thanks to God. And some may even spend time in confession. Sometimes praising God
simply for who He is may be shortchanged in many people’s prayer life. We may end up
thanking God for His attributes rather than simply praising Him for who He is. For
example, in this week’s study, it would be easy to quote the psalmist David and thank
God for creating us, “I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made”
quoting Psalm 139:14. Say: At the end of each session of this study, we are going to
spend some time praising God for who He is as revealed in His name. This week we’ve
learned a lot about the name Elohim.
10. Invite group members to make statements of praise to God. You can do this with eyes
open and the group responding. Be prepared to get this started or to keep it going by
using one of these statements (or one of your own): I praise You Elohim for creating the
world and all that is in it. . . . I praise You for creating a world that is good. . . . I praise
You for creating people in Your image. . . . I praise you for your plan of redemption. I
praise you for being eternal, a concept that is difficult for finite humans to comprehend.
11. Close by singing a hymn or chorus that speaks of God’s power or His role as Creator.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners who attended this first session. Thank them for coming.
Affirm their contributions. Summarize some of the concepts you and others mentioned
during the session. Remind them of the verse For Memory and Meditation, Genesis 1:1.
Remind them that the Bible is about God revealing Himself to human beings. As we
study Names of God, we will learn more about God’s attributes. Encourage the group to
read chapter 2, “Adonai: Lord.” Suggest that they bring others with them to next week’s
study.
2. Post a note on the church’s Facebook page about the study and encourage others to attend.
Names of God
Week 1
Group Assignments
Group 1: God Alone Is Eternal
Genesis 1:1
1. What does Elohim mean here?
2. What does ex nihilo mean? How does it relate to God’s being eternal?
3. How does the fact that God declared His creation to be “good” impact your view of the
world and of other people?
4. What is the role of humankind in God’s creation?
5. What do you think it means to be created in God’s image?
Group 2: The Significance of the Plural Name
Genesis 1:26; 2 Corinthians 13:14
1. What is significant about Elohim being plural?
2. Had you previously noticed the plural in Genesis 1:26? What does this mean to you?
3. What is the significance of the concept of the Trinity beginning as a possible concept at
this point in God’s revelation?
4. The text says that God is supreme—the one true God, divine, and knowable. What does
this mean to you?
Group 3: The Creator
Job 38:4–5; 42:2, 4–6
1. The first thing we know about God is that He is the all-powerful Creator. Why is this
significant?
2. This fact—that God created the world—is much disputed in the world today. How does
this truth impact your life or your worldview?
3. How does Job become a role model for the impact the concept of Creator God can have
on your life?
4. How can understanding God as Creator give you confidence and trust in Him?
Group 4: Assurances from the Creator
Isaiah 40:26–31; 45:11–14; Revelation 21:1; 10:5–6
1. Does viewing God as Creator enhance or hurt your ability to trust Him? Why?
2. What promises are embedded in this passage from Isaiah? What does this mean to you?
When do you most need this assurance?
3. How does Isaiah develop the concept of God that begins in Genesis 1?
4. How does this image of God in Revelation show a consistency throughout Scripture?
Group 5: The Profound Implications
Romans 3:23; 6:23; 2 Corinthians 5:21
1. What does it mean to be created in God’s image? What attributes does God have that He
placed in humankind?
2. What does sin do to a person’s relationship God? What can you do about it? (If you have
questions about this, turn to the appendix at the back of the book.)
3. How are the concepts of God as Creator and Redeemer connected and consistent?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 2
Adonai: Lord
Focal Text: Genesis 15:2
Key Verses: “Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” Luke 6:46
Before the Session
1. Read week 2 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read the Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. Several hymns and choruses relate well to the name Adonai: “Holy Is the Lord,” “Great
Is Thy Faithfulness,” “Lord, Be Glorified.” These hymns could be used at various places
throughout the session, perhaps ending with “Lord, Be Glorified.” On the Internet you’ll
also find several hymns and choruses with the title “Adonai.” One of these may be a
favorite of your church. If so, sing it. Or if you particularly like the words of one of these,
show a YouTube video.
3. Get a baseball for the object lesson. (Substitute a football, basketball, soccer ball, etc. if it
is a better fit for the season of the year or for your group.
4. Print the questions for small groups.
5. Provide a large sheet of paper, big enough for everyone to write on, with several writing
at the same time. Place it on a focal wall where people can get around it to write but
where they can also clearly see it during the session. Provide felt-tip markers in different
colors. In the middle of the paper, write in large letters, “My Stuff.”
6. From the Internet, find the poem “Invictus” and learn about the writer William Ernest
Henley (http://www.poetryfoundation.org/poem/182194#about).
7. Enlist a mature Christ follower to give a brief testimony about the last section of this
chapter, “Four Characteristics of Those Who Know God as Adonai.”
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, invite them to write on the large piece of paper several things they
own that are significant to them. It is OK if multiple people write the same thing.
Encourage them to write in a different color or size rather than fail to repeat an object.
2. When everyone has arrived, tell this story:
A woman was working with preschoolers during worship one Sunday. Most of the
children wanted to go outside, but one little girl wanted to stay in and finish her art
project so this woman agreed to stay with her. The girl was making a booklet. On each
page she drew a picture of one member of her family. She made a head separately and
created an accordion spring of folded paper to glue between the head and the page so that
as you turned each page the head popped out. The little girl had a large family so this was
a complex project. As she worked, she asked, “Know who my favorite family member is?”
The woman knew her family pretty well and began to guess—mother, father,
grandmother, older brother, older sister. She made her way though every member of the
family—even the family pets—and got a no response to each one. The worker thought
she had named everyone. She gave up. “Who is your favorite family member?” she
finally asked.
“It’s me!” the happy preschooler responded.
The woman had failed to put herself in preschool mode. Young children quickly learn
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the concepts of me, mine, myself. Some people seem never to get past this stage. And
most of us revert to it from time to time.
Transition to connecting to this week’s name of God: Adonai meaning “Lord.” Explain
that last week we first saw God as eternal Creator in Genesis 1:1. This week we see Him
as Lord of all, both Creator and Owner. Everything really isn’t about me. It’s about Him.
Call attention to the large “My Stuff” paper. Go to the wall and point out some of the
items that appear a number of times. You are likely to see house, car, and other items. If
you see electronic devices—smartphone, computer, etc.—call attention to those too.
Then ask: How do these things sometimes seem to own you rather than the other way
around? Allow time for responses. (Items cost money, need maintenance, take time, add
to life but also require a lot from owners. Electronic devices, for example, have become
items we cannot live without; but we constantly have to spend time on them, take care
not to lose them, update and replace them, reeducate ourselves on how to use them, etc.
Comment that we learned last week that we are God’s stewards. He is the owner. That is
one of the meanings of Adonai. He is Lord of all—of everything on the earth, all that He
created, all that people have created with the resources He provided, all that we have
attained with the abilities He provides each of us, and all of us! He is Lord of all. Ask: If
you were to see God as owner of all the things you wrote on this paper, instead of seeing
yourself as owner but rather as steward—taking care of it for God—would it change your
perspective in any way? If so, how?
Read the poem “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley. Call for responses. Tell a bit about
Henley’s life that led him to write such a poem of self-purpose and determination. Ask:
How do you feel about claiming total control over your life? Point out that the
circumstances of Henley’s life indicate a response to circumstances beyond his control
rather than actual control over the circumstances. After responses, say: We as Christians
have no reason to fear the future. Our future is one of hope because we trust Adonai as
Lord rather than ourselves.
Plan to lecture on the content of this chapter or direct learners to form three small groups.
Use the questions on the page following to help plan your lecture or print and cut apart
the questions for small groups.
Call for groups to report on their work. Add comments and affirm their work.
Call for the person enlisted to give a testimony about the “Four Characteristics of Those
Who Know God as Adonai.” If you have not enlisted someone to give a testimony, lead a
discussion about this last section of this chapter. Discuss each point separately if time
allows. You may want to use questions like these:
• Does being a steward call for more or less responsibility? How does it compare to
renting or owning a home or a car? How is the motivation similar? different?
• How do you think most people in the world today respond to the words serve or
service? Why? How can serving be a privilege?
• How has God supplied your needs?
• Is calling on people who have an abundance to share with those who don’t one way of
God’s supplying the needs of those who are less fortunate? Explain your answer.
• When have you felt empowered by God to do a task, perhaps one you have never done
before or didn’t know you could do?
• Comment: We have to know God’s Word in order to be obedient. Ask: How difficult is
it to be obedient? When have you learned a new call to obedience? How did responding
make you feel?
Tell this story: A man who owned a liquor store began attending church for the first
time. Soon he felt convicted of his sin and chose to accept Christ as Savior. Gradually the
Lord revealed to him more and more ways to be obedient to him. Step by step he learned
what the Bible said and tried to do obey. Eventually he sold his stores, changed
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professions, began to tithe, and became more active in church. One day he realized that
the Lord was calling him to full-time ministry.
Comment: We are not totally in control of our own lives. We do not know our stories
from beginning to end. God reveals His plans for us day by day and calls for us to obey.
Show the baseball (or other ball). Talk about children the group may know who have
been involved in this sport when they were young. Say: Playing baseball (or another
sport) when we are young teaches us a lot. We learn to relate to others, to appreciate
other people’s skills, and perhaps to work together even when we don’t always like one
another. We learn to win well. And we also learn to lose, to surrender. That’s a good
lesson to learn when we are young. We will always have people in authority over us.
Learning respect is good. Ultimately, however, we want to help boys and girls, and
people of all ages, learn to respect and surrender to God, just as Abraham and Moses and
David, and others throughout the Bible did. We can learn about obedience from their
examples. Unlike the earthly people over us, God’s will is perfect. We are privileged to
serve Him.
Call attention to the verse For Memory and Meditation, Luke 6:46.
Lead the group in a time of praise using the name Adonai. For example:
• Adonai, I praise You for being the perfect Lord and Master.
• I worship You, Adonai, for You are worthy of worship.
Week by week, as you practice praising God, some of the prayers may be the same, but
some will also become more thoughtful and personal. Even if repetitive, praising God is
good. Just as we don’t tire of complements, God enjoys our praise.
You may want to end the time with a hymn or chorus of praise such as “Lord, Be
Glorified.”
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners who attended this session, any who came the first week but
did not attend this week, and any you know who are studying the book but are unable to
come to the sessions. Summarize some of the concepts you and others mentioned during
the session. Encourage the group to read chapter 3, “El Elyon: God Most High.” Suggest
that they bring others with them to next week’s study.
2. Post a note on the church’s Facebook page about the study and encourage others to attend.
3. Let people who were unable to attend this week’s study know they were missed.
4. Be sure you have enough books. Order additional copies if needed.
Names of God
Week 2
Group Assignments
Group 1: Adonai Declares God’s Ownership
Genesis 12:1; 15:1–2; 14:19–20; 15:1–6
Use these questions in preparing your report:
1. What does God call Abram to do? What does God promise Abram?
2. How do the decisions Abram and Lot made show a difference in their relationship to
God?
3. How do Abraham and Sarah try to make God’s promise a reality? What happens because
of their attempts?
4. In what ways did Abraham surrender and obey?
5. How did God fulfill His promise?
Group 2: The Implications of God’s Ownership
Malachi 1:6–7, 14
Use these questions in preparing your report:
1. What is the primary significance of Adonai? How does this relate to God’s role as
Creator? How should we respond?
2. How do the verses in Malachi illustrate God’s ownership and our call to worship Him?
3. What happens when we don’t obey? What happens when we do obey?
Group 3: Adonai Signals a Call to Service
Exodus 4; Judges 6
Use these questions in preparing your report:
1. How did Moses first respond to God’s call? What happened when he obeyed?
2. How did Gideon first respond to God’s call? What happened when he obeyed?
3. What did King David want to do? When God said no, how did David respond?
4. What are some New Testament examples of God as Lord?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 3
El Elyon: God Most High
Focal Text: Genesis 14:17–24
Key Verse: “Blessed be Abram of God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth.”
Genesis 14:19
Before the Session
1. Read week 3 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. Prepare group assignment sheets.
3. Display a mezuzah or a picture of a mezuzah. (A mezuzah is a small scroll with the
words of Deuteronomy 6:4–9 and 11:13–21. Many Jews place this on the doors of their
homes.) Option (or an additional item): Display an old family scrapbook or photo album.
4. Possible hymns and choruses for this week include “Let’s Just Praise the Lord,” “Great Is
the Lord,” and “Holy, Holy, Holy.” Consider using “His Name Is Life” or “There’s
Something about That Name,” hymns about Jesus that fit this week’s theme; you may
want to use one of them at the end of the session. You’ll also find several hymns and
choruses online about El Elyon, if you want to play a recording or show a YouTube video.
5. Provide paper and pens or pencils.
6. In advance, determine if you will have small groups or enlist two people to lecture on two
portions of this week’s lesson, “The Historical Context of El Elyon” and “A Deal He
Could Refuse.” If you enlist speakers, suggest that they read all relevant Scripture and do
further research in available commentaries and on the Internet. Provide the small-group
questions that follow to help guide their preparation.
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, direct them to form small groups of three to five. Give each group
a piece of paper and a pen or pencil. Tell them to list concepts or “truths to live by” their
parents taught them. Tell them this can be both fun and serious.
2. Call for responses. Invite every group to share one or two lessons parents passed on their
kids, including brief stories. Then ask, if they haven’t already done so, to share what their
parents wanted to make sure they knew about God, Jesus, the Bible, etc. Ask them to
share ways their parents taught these lessons. For example, taking them to church,
reading the Bible with them, living a Christlike life, praying with their children, etc.
Tell this story or a similar story of your own (or in advance enlist someone to tell a
story about their parents—perhaps someone who had much-loved parents in the church):
An adult woman, who had buried both her parents, recalled: When I was young, my
parents always took us to church. They were involved on many levels and expected their
children to be. A family ritual on Saturday was placing Bibles, Sunday school books
(with lessons studied), and offering envelopes prepared in the living room to grab as we
hurried out the door on Sunday morning.
She went on with her story: They were consistent all their lives. When they were quite
old, my mom was unable to go to church, but she read her Bible daily and watched local
worship services on TV. She wanted everyone to know that she “loved the Lord.” When
her only activity outside the house became going to the doctor, she looked for people in
the waiting room who looked sad and intentionally sat by them to share her testimony
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
and hope in the Lord. My dad continued to go to church long after he could no longer
hear the preacher. Simply going to church was his act of worship and his testimony. A
man of few words, he lived his testimony in faithfulness and service to others. They
taught by their examples.
Invite two volunteers to read Deuteronomy 6:4–9 and 11:13–21. Lead a brief discussion
about ways these adults are passing on biblical truths they value to their own children.
Call for the two people enlisted to lecture/report on the two sections of this chapter, “The
Historical Context of El Elyon” and “A Deal He Could Refuse.” Or direct learners to
form two small groups. Give each group the appropriate questions.
If you have lectures, invite learners to ask questions for group discussion following the
reports. Or call for the two small groups to report.
After the reports, using the paragraph in the book, call attention to the significance of El
Elyon. Point out that this name of God reveals His claim to be universal in His rule and
reign. He is not just the God of the nation of Israel but God over all peoples of all times
and all nations and lands. This truth continues to be significant today. And just as God
called His people to reveal His name to their neighbors, who were unbelievers, He calls
us today to take His name to all the peoples of the earth.
Turn to the principles and application. Give learners an opportunity to review this section
in their books. Then ask these questions:
• How does the name El Elyon lead to a mandate for missions and evangelism? Discuss
ways your church corporately and individuals in your church are currently doing this.
• How does the name El Elyon help us deal with a crisis? You may want to use an
example of a church member who has trusted God throughout a recent hardship or crisis.
• Invite someone to read Matthew 6:25–34. Ask: How can the name El Elyon help us live
each day? How can it help us be an example to others?
Show the mezuzah and/or the scrapbook. Explain that every day we are living examples
to our children and to all those we encounter. By our lives we are teaching what we
believe about God, Jesus, and the Bible. We are showing what we value and who or what
is truly lord in our lives.
Call attention to the verse For Memory and Meditation, Genesis 4:19.
Invite people to state praises for El Elyon: God Most High.
Close by singing a hymn or chorus of praise to God.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to learners who attended this session and those who attended previous
session, and those who are studying the book but are unable to come to the sessions.
Summarize some of the concepts you and others mentioned during the session.
Encourage the group to read chapter 4, “El Shaddai: Almighty God.” Suggest that they
begin to think of ways to praise God based on this name. Also tell them to think about
this question and come prepared to share their answers: Think about a promise given to
you long before it was fulfilled and what that meant to you. Or, think about something
you wanted for a long time and how you felt when you finally reached your goal or
fulfilled what you desired. Come next week prepared to share your stories.
2. Post a note on the church’s Facebook page about the study and encourage others to attend.
3. Take a few minutes to evaluate how the study is going. You may want to call a few
participants and ask for feedback.
4. Look ahead at the next few lessons as you begin to prepare for week 4. Consider ways to
involve more people and try more learning approaches. Find out if you have the capacity
to use the Internet during sessions and how you can incorporate electronic media in your
teaching.
Names of God
Week 3
Group Assignments
Group 1: The Historical Context of El Elyon
Genesis 13:12; 14
1. Contrast Lot and Abram—their choices, actions, and worldviews.
2. Recall a time in your life when you thought you were making a good decision based on
all available information, but later events you could not have known turned it into a
questionable choice or reinforced the decision you made. Share how God had a role (if
He did) in your decision-making process.
3. Recall a time when God answered a prayer in a way you hadn’t even considered.
Group 2: A Deal He Could Refuse
Genesis 14:17–23; Psalm 110:4; Acts 2:34–35; Hebrews 7:1–3
1. What did the king of Sodom do?
2. Recall a situation where you or someone else tried to bargain when you had no power or
position.
3. Compare Melchizedek with the king of Sodom.
4. What do we need to learn about El Elyon from this story?
5. When have you experienced a resolution to a troubling situation that only God could have
caused?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 4
El Shaddai: Almighty God
Focal Text: Genesis 17:1–8
Key Verse: “Now when Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram
and said to him, ‘I am God Almighty; walk before Me, and be blameless.” Genesis 17:1
Before the Session
1. Read week 4 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session.
2. Write on the board the question you sent to participants in an e-mail last week: Tell about
a promise given to you long before it was fulfilled and what its ultimate fulfillment meant
to you. Or, think about something you wanted for a long time and how you felt when you
finally reached your goal or fulfilled what you desired. (Examples might include wanting
a baby and finally having one, wanting to earn a degree and finally doing it, wanting to
buy a home and finally doing it, etc.) You may also want to enlist someone to give a brief
testimony about one of these types of issues. The person you enlist does not necessarily
need to be a group member. Or you may prefer to enlist someone who has remained
content or happy throughout a crisis because of his or her dependence on God.
3. Create an electronic slide show using images from the Internet or those you create
yourself that complete the statement “Happiness is . . .” Have this running as people
arrive.
4. On the Internet find the lyrics for “Is That All There Is?”
(http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/peggylee/isthatallthereis.html). Print the lyrics to read
during the session or plan to play a recording.
5. Plan to lecture this week, using the small-group questions that follow, or print and cut
apart the questions for small groups to use during the session.
6. In addition to the popular “El Shaddai,” hymns and choruses you might choose to use this
week include “The God of Abraham Praise,” “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” and
“”Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above.” Prepare to show the YouTube video of “El
Shaddai” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKHa6Cm62uI) at the end of the session
or enlist someone to sing this song.
7. Make a poster with the words Happiness Is . . .
8. Create a display of things that might make people happy: a trophy, a diploma, a wallet, a
wedding ring, a model of an expensive car and/or boat, etc. Or create a bulletin board of
pictures of these items. If you make a bulletin board or picture collage, title it: Happiness
Is?
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, invite them to view the “Happiness Is . . .” slide show you have
created. Then invite them to form small groups of three to five to talk about the question
you have written on the board and that you sent to them in an e-mail: Tell about a
promise given to you long before it was fulfilled and what its ultimate fulfillment meant
to you. Or, think about something you wanted for a long time and how you felt when you
finally reached your goal or fulfilled what you desired.
2. After everyone has gathered, seen the slide show, and had opportunity to join and share
in a group, tell a story about your own fulfilled promise, or tell the following story:
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Tony couldn’t remember a time in his life before his dad was talking about taking him
on a trip to the Western United States. He heard about it for years. Then just before he
graduated from high school, his entire family took a monthlong road trip to see sixteen
Western states. It was a promise fulfilled and left Tony with a desire to travel. Now, as a
retired adult, he continues to travel, each year trying to go to new places. So far he has
visited more than seventy countries.
Invite people to share their stories and the impacted fulfilled promises or goals achieved
had on their lives. Then ask these questions:
• Before your promise was fulfilled or you reached your goal, how did you feel?
• Did you contemplate trying outlandish ways of achieving your goals? Why or why not?
• Did achieving your goal make you happy? Why or why not? For how long was this
achievement satisfying? Was it worth the effort or focus spent on achieving it?
Point out that happiness means different things to different people. Read the lyrics or play
the recording of “Is That All There Is?” Point out that the truth of this song is that our
happiness shouldn’t depend on circumstances alone. But that’s where the truth of this
song ends. Believers know that their true happiness is a result of the hope they have in
Jesus alone. Invite someone to read Romans 3:38–39. Say: Knowing the love of God is
the source of true and lasting peace and happiness.
Transition to this week’s lesson by saying: We’ve been on a journey through the Old
Testament, exploring where names of God are used for the first time. This journey has
had us walking along with Abraham and Sarah. They have been faithful to obey God. He
has promised that they will have descendants too numerous to count. Yet they have
reached old age without a son. Will God ever fulfill His promise to them?
Lecture on the content of this week’s session or invite participants to form four small
groups. Either way, use the small-group questions that follow.
If you use small groups, allow time for them to work. Then call for their reports.
Lead a discussion based on “Lessons for Today.” You may want to use questions like
these:
• What determines your happiness or dream fulfillment? Does it ultimately lead to real
happiness, ongoing frustration, or continually needing to do or gain or achieve more and
more?
• How can giving up be a real victory in your life?
• When have you experienced the truth of Ephesians 3:20—received more than you
deserved or imagined or more than you could possibly have done on your own, limited to
your own power and desire?
Call for praise sentences for El Shaddai.
Play the YouTube “El Shaddai” video or call for the one you’ve enlisted to sing this song.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Summarize some of the main points of your study of El
Shaddai. Include a link to the YouTube video
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKHa6Cm62uI). Encourage them to praise El
Shaddai daily for His power and provision.
2. Remind them to memorize Genesis 17:1: “Now when Abram was ninety-nine years old,
the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, ‘I am God Almighty; walk before Me, and
be blameless.’” Suggest that they pray about ways God wants them to walk with Him this
week.
3. Encourage the group to read chapter 5, “Yahweh: I Am Who I Am” and the Focal
Passage: Exodus 3:6–14. The Scripture is about Moses and the burning bush. In it, God
tells Moses that He has seen the plight of His people in Egypt and is sending Moses to
help them. God continues to see needs and send people to help meet the need. Ask
participants to think about these questions: When has God sent you to help meet a need?
What needs do you see in your community that God may be preparing people to meet
today?
Names of God
Week 4
Group Assignments
Group 1: The Context of the Revelation of El Shaddai
Genesis 17
1. What had Abram/Abraham done in the past to obey God?
2. What promise had God given to Abraham and Sarah?
3. What name did God reveal to Abraham? How might this encourage Abraham?
4. How can this name of God encourage believers today?
Group 2: Practicing Positive Surrender
Genesis 17; Galatians 3:2–3
1. Abraham had to surrender over and over again, yielding to God, choosing to obey, and
trusting God’s promises. How does Abraham’s example impact your life today?
2. What do people today substitute for read happiness (trying to create fulfillment on their
own way)?
3. Some people today disregard or distort what the Bible says, claiming, “God wants me to
be happy?” How would you respond to this statement?
4. A number of people from Augustine to the Baptist missionary William Carey have been
attributed as saying, “Pray as if everything depends on God. Work as if everything
depend on you.” Is this way of thinking consistent with a belief in El Shaddai? Is it
consistent with Abraham’s life? Explain your answer.
Group 3: El Shaddai: God Almighty
Genesis 49:24–25; Isaiah 66:10–13
1. Where do you see power in the world today? How is it like God’s power? How is it
different?
2. What are possible meanings of the words El Shaddai?
3. How does the meaning relate specifically to Abraham and Sarah?
Group 4: Ultimate Fulfillment in Christ
John 4; 6
1. What is the image of God in John 4? What are His characteristics?
2. What is the image of God in John 6? What are His characteristics?
3. How is El Shaddi fulfilled for Christians in Jesus Christ?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 5
Yahweh: I Am Who I Am
Focal Text: Exodus 3:6–14
Key Verse: “God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.’” Exodus 3:14
Before the Session
1. Read week 5 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. Prepare two posters. On them write these words: (1) World Needs, (2) Community Needs.
Provide small pads of sticky-note paper and pens or pencils.
3. One hymn to consider for this session is “He Is Jehovah” (hymn 118, Baptist Hymnal).
You’ll also find a number of hymns/choruses online with the title “Yahweh.” Read the
lyrics of these and listen to them to select one for your group.
4. Prepare handouts for the four small groups and pens or pencils.
5. Enlist one or more people in advance to tell about God’s revealing a need to them and
sending them to meet it.
6. Create a display of information or items about groups your church helps. If possible,
collect flyers or print information participants can take with them.
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, give each one a small pad of sticky notes and a pen or pencil. Tell
them to write a world or community need on each piece of paper and stick it on the
appropriate poster. After they have done this, invite them to form small groups of three to
five to share times in their lives when God has revealed a need to them and enabled them
to help meet it.
2. After groups have had time to share, invite volunteers to share an experience of meeting a
need God revealed to them or call on those you enlisted in advance to share their
experiences. Ask those who speak (either from small groups or those you enlisted) if they
felt inadequate when they first felt convinced they needed to help meet this need. What
resources or assurances did God provide?
3. Transition to talking about this name for God (Yahweh) by saying that God spoke to
Moses and told him that He was appointing Him to free the enslaved people of Israel.
Use the information in the introduction to tell about this name.
4. Plan to lecture on this content, enlist one or more people to lecture, or direct participants
to form small groups. If you use small groups, direct participants to form five small
discussion groups. Distribute questions to them and make sure Bibles in a variety of
translations are available.
5. Call for the groups to report.
6. Call for a time of praises to Yahweh.
7. Point out that God continues to reveal needs to His people and calls them to meet those
needs. Point out the display you’ve created of current church ministries. Invite people to
pick up several things on their way out: (1) a sticky note from each poster—Tell them to
read over the needs listed and choose some they will pray about; (2) information about
community ministries—Suggest that participants pray, asking God to direct them to
ministries and needs where they can serve in His name.
8. Sing a hymn about Yahweh before you dismiss.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Summarize some of the main points of your study of
Yahweh.
2. Remind them to memorize Exodus 3:14: “God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.’”
3. Suggest that they pray about needs in their community and the world and how God wants
them to help meet those needs. Suggest that they also offer praise prayers to Yahweh.
4. Encourage the group to read chapter 6, “Jehovah Jireh: The Lord Provides” and the Focal
Passage: Genesis 22:1–14.
Names of God
Week 5
Group Assignments
Group 1: The Early Appearances of the Name
Genesis 2:4; 28:13; Deuteronomy 6:4
1. What is monotheism?
2. What does Yahweh mean?
3. Why is a person’s search for meaning satisfied only in God?
Group 2: The Declaration at the Burning Bush
Exodus 1:8–9; 2:24; 3
1. How did the Israelites become slaves?
2. How did Moses’ early years prepare him for the task God called him to do?
3. How did God introduce Himself to Moses?
4. Why did Moses object to what God wanted him to do?
5. What were the problems with Moses’ questioning God?
Group 3: What Is His Name?
Exodus 3:6–14
1. What important question did Moses ask God (v. 13)?
2. Why is this question significant?
3. How does this knowledge of God apply to us today?
Group 4: God Who Reveals Himself
Exodus 3:6–14
1. How does Moses show God’s relationship to people since the beginning of creation?
2. Why is it significant that God communicated with people from Adam and Eve, the
patriarchs, Moses, and continues to communicate with us today?
3. How did God display His ultimate effort at communicating with people?
Group 5: The Righteous God Who Redeemed Sinful Man
Genesis 3:1–5; 3:8–9; Exodus 32:15–20; 34:6–7; John 14:6; Hebrews 10:19
1. How does the Bible connect the name Yahweh and God’s righteous character?
2. How does God provide ways for people to deal with their sin and keep a relationship with
Him?
3. How does Jesus ultimately fulfill this need for all time?
4. Explain Hebrews 10:19 in light of the name Yahweh.
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 6
Jehovah Jireh: The Lord Provides
Focal Text: Genesis 22:1–14
Key Verse: “The Lord Will Provide, as it is said to this day, ‘In the mount of the Lord it
will be provided.’” Genesis 22:14
Before the Session
1. Read week 6 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read all Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. One hymn for this week is “Jehovah Jireh” (hymn 124, Baptist Hymnal). You’ll also find
lyrics and videos for songs and choruses on the Internet with the name Jehovah Jireh. Or
you may want to sing a hymn like “Count Your Blessings” or “Now Thank We All Our
God.”
3. Enlist someone who is an athlete to give a testimony about his or her Christian journey.
Or enlist someone who has been through a crisis to give a testimony about God’s
provision.
4. Gather colorful periodicals, scissors, glue, and masking tape. On a large piece of paper,
write the title of this session: Jehovah Jireh: The Lord Provides.
5. Prepare group assignments.
6. Bring a passport.
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, invite them to find pictures in the periodical of items God provides
and to glue them onto the paper to make a collage. Continue until everyone has arrived
and had opportunity to add to the collage. Transfer the collage to a focal wall where
everyone can see it.
2. Comment on the variety of items on the collage. Invite the group to name some items
God has provided for them. Enlist someone to read James 1:17. Say: We could have
added many more items to our collage. Everything we have is from God. He supplies our
needs. And why does He do this? Invite someone to read 2 Corinthians 9:8.
3. Introduce the session. Use the introduction if you have enlisted an athlete to give a
testimony. If you have enlisted someone to speak about God’s provision during crisis,
say: Out speaker knows personally how God provides for us.
Or tell a story like this:
A group of adults and teenagers formed a caravan of buses and private cars for a
three-hundred-mile journey to teach Bible school at an inner-city church. Just after
beginning their journey, the rain began to fall. And soon thereafter the buses had not one
but two flat tires. They had just begun to assess the situation when a car stopped. It was
people from a nearby church who worked with their own bus ministry and knew just
whom to call for help.
A couple of days later, the team of adults realized they had underestimated the amount
of food they would need. They went to the grocery. They knew how much money they
had to spend, but they were determined to buy what they needed to feed everyone,
willing to sacrifice personally if that was required. When the clerk rang up their total, it
was within a dollar of the amount they had been given to spend.
The group saw God work in the lives of teenagers who had prepared well for their
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
leadership roles, and they saw God act in the lives of children who attended. And they
saw God provide for all of their needs.
Invite the group to share testimonies of God’s provision.
Plan to lecture on this session, using the following questions to help guide you, or direct
participants to form five small groups. Introduce their work by saying: Abraham left
home on a lifelong journey, trusting God to provide for him. Let’s learn from his journey.
Give them their assignments.
Call for group reports. Be ready to comment on their work and add to what they say,
clarifying as needed and emphasizing important points.
Call for group praises to Jehovah Jireh. Say: We have spent time each week praising God.
This week let’s add thanksgiving. Invite participants to thank God for specific provisions
in their lives.
Show the passport. Show stamps for the places you (or someone else) have been.
Comment that wherever we go in life, close to home or far away, God is there before us.
He knows our need and provides for us because He loves us. Often He sends others to
meet needs. And, just as we learned with Moses last week, He also sends us to meet
others’ needs. This week be mindful of the needs around you and provide for others in
Jesus’ name.
Sing the hymn you have selected.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Summarize some of the main points of your study of
Jehovah Jireh.
2. Remind participants to memorize Genesis 22:14: “The Lord Will Provide, as it is said to
this day, ‘In the mount of the LORD it will be provided.’”
3. Suggest that as they praise God this week they also thank Him. Offer these plans for
thanking God: (1) As you lie down each night this week, think about your day. Thank
God for something you saw, something you heard, something you smelled, something
you tasted, and something you touched. (2) Thank God for different things each day. You
may want to created a variety of categories to prompt your thinking—small items that
make life easier, things that weren’t around when you were born that enhance your life
today, people in each decade of your life who have been a blessing to you, needs you
have had during that day and how God has provided for your needs, gifts and abilities
God has given you to help you provide for yourself and your family, opportunities God
has given you to bless others and how that has enriched your life.
4. Encourage the group to read chapter 7, “Jehovah Rophe: The Lord Heals” and the Focal
Passage: Exodus 15:22–27. Suggest that they think about one or more ways God has
healed them—physically from disease or injury, emotionally from grief or loss,
spiritually from being separated from God to having a close relationship with Him,
mentally from worry or stress, etc.
Names of God
Week 6
Group Assignments
Group 1: Faith Is a Journey
Genesis 12:1–4; 15:1, 6; 17:1–8, 15, 19
1. Recall Abraham’s journey prior to Genesis 22.
2. How had God blessed Abraham and Sarah?
Group 2: Faith Is Evidenced in Radical Obedience
Genesis 22:1–14
1. What did God tell Abraham to do?
2. How did Abraham respond, even before He knew what God wanted?
3. What types of separation do families face today?
4. How can temporary physical separation help parents understand what Abraham was
facing?
Group 3: Abraham’s Growing Faith
Genesis 22:1–14; Hebrews 11:17–19
1. What confidence does Abraham express at Mount Moriah?
2. Explain Hebrews 11:17–19.
3. What had Abraham learned about God along his journey?
4. What have you learned about God on your life’s journey?
Group 4: God Reveals Himself as Jehovah Jireh
Genesis 22:1–14
1. Describe the image you see of the young man and the old man walking together.
2. Respond to this statement from the lesson: “Our circumstances never test the faithfulness
or power of God; they serve only to enlarge our understanding of the character of God
and His purpose in our life.”
3. Explain the meaning of jireh.
4. Respond to this statement: “Only when Abraham took his eyes off his son (his
circumstances) could he see God’s ram of provision. Only when he gave his Isaac to God
could he receive him back, not just as a beloved son but as a gracious gift from God the
Provider, entrusted to Abraham in stewardship.”
5. How does this story make you feel about God giving His Son for our salvation?
Group 5: God’s Blessing Unleashed
Genesis 22:1–18; James 1:23–25
1. How did God respond to Abraham’s obedience?
2. Explain this statement: “Obedience is the key to faith.”
3. What circumstances in your life have called for radical faith?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 7
Jehovah Rophe: The Lord Heals
Focal Text: Exodus 15:22–27
Key Verse: “I will put none of the diseases on you which I have put on the Egyptians; for
I, the LORD, am your healer.” Exodus 15:26
Before the Session
1. Read week 7 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read all Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. Hymn options include: “He Is Jehovah” (hymn 118, Baptist Hymnal), “There Is a Balm
in Gilead,” “Make Me Glad” (hymn 120, Baptist Hymnal), “He Is Jehovah,” or “We
Cannot Measure How You Heal”
(http://www.hymnary.org/text/we_cannot_measure_how_you_heal). Or plan for someone
to sing Ray Boltz’s “Thank You” or show a YouTube video of this song.
3. Enlist a doctor or a nurse to give a testimony about partnering with God to serve people
who are physically ill. Or enlist someone who has been healed to give a testimony. Or
enlist someone who is dealing with an illness to give a testimony about God’s presence
and provision during an illness.
4. Prepare group assignments.
5. Bring a display of simple medical items like bandages and over-the-counter drugs like
pain relievers.
6. Cut apart the situations on the page that follows.
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, direct them to form five small groups. Give each group one of the
situations from the following page. Tell them to read and discuss the situation and to
answer the questions. Call groups together. Invite someone from each group to tell about
their situation and respond to the questions.
2. Using your display of medicines and bandages, etc., comment that in a world where
doctors and medicine can do so much, we are unprepared for ebola, cancer, and other
illnesses that medicine can’t always cure. But we can praise God for healing and for His
presence. If you’ve enlisted a doctor, nurse, or a person who has been healed or is dealing
with an illness to speak, introduce that person now.
3. Transition to the lesson, using the introduction and comments from the groups and the
testimony.
4. Plan to lecture or for small groups to discuss the content. If you are using small groups,
direct participants to form five small groups. Make sure Bibles and perhaps
commentaries are available. Some groups may want paper and pens for taking notes for
their reports. After group time call for someone from each group to tell about that group’s
discussion.
5. Call for the group to state praises to God for different kinds of healing. Spend some time
this week praying for people who need God’s healing.
6. Close by singing the hymn or chorus you have selected or by playing Ray Boltz’s “Thank
You.”
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Summarize some of the main points of your study of
Jehovah Rophe. Share names of people who need healing and ask that participants
continue to pray for these people. Remind them to continue to praise God as Jehovah
Rophe, God their Healer.
2. Remind them to memorize Exodus 15:26: “I will put none of the diseases on you which I
have put on the Egyptians; for I, the LORD, am your healer.”
3. Encourage the group to read chapter 8, “Jehovah Nissi: The Lord Is Our Banner” and the
Focal Passage: Exodus 17:8–16.
Names of God
Week 7
Introductory Discussion
Group 1: Physical Healing
When I was a child, I had more than one serious illness. I spent lots of time indoors. As a result
I’ve never been much of an athlete, but I did learn to read a lot and to appreciate the company of
good books. Those years prepared me well to be a librarian. I’ve enjoyed helping others learn to
read, find just the right book, learn about a subject, meet authors, and appreciate the printed word.
Of course, that love begins and ends with the Bible, God’s Book. I’m thankful for the time I’ve
spent with God in His Work.
1. How did God heal?
2. Whom did God use to help this person?
3. Share similar stories.
Group 2: Mental Healing
I’ve spent most of my life worrying about something. I know what the Bible says about the birds
and the lilies (Matt. 7:25–33), but in spite of that, setting my worries aside has been difficult for
me. My mother used to say that I worried about whether I would have a child and that child
would have a child and that child would fall into the fireplace. As silly as that is, I have worried
about a lot of things that never happened. And some things that have happened, I couldn’t do
anything at all to stop them. Both my husband and I lost our jobs. We decided to use the skills we
had and to become self-employed. And that has been a walk of faith. Some months we earn more
money than we need. And some months we don’t earn enough to pay the electric bill. But it evens
out. I don’t worry so much anymore. I’ve learned day by day that God provides.
1. How did God heal?
2. Whom did God use to help this person?
3. Share similar stories.
Group 3: Emotional Healing
When my husband left me, I thought my world was over. Realizing that he had chosen another
woman over me, when I thought we loved each other—when I thought I had given my life to
him—was devastating. When I got past the devastation, I was angry. And I nurtured that anger. It
grew and grew. I could hardly have a conversation without telling someone how angry I was at
my former husband. I convinced myself that God approved of my anger. Then a friend helped me
to see that I was hurting myself and the rest of my relationships—not my former husband—by my
anger. I began to see that some people had avoided me, and I realized it was because I had vented
my anger around them. Slowly I began to let go of my anger. It didn’t happen overnight. But
today I can say that God healed me from my anger. I am so thankful.
1. How did God heal?
2. Whom did God use to help this person?
3. Share similar stories.
Group 4: Spiritual Healing
When I was twelve years old, my parents encouraged me to leave my home in Romania to go
with a man who promised a new life in America. They wanted only the best for me. None of us
realized that they were turning me over to a human trafficker. He brought me to Atlanta where he
kept me as a sex slave for years. One day he turned his head and I was gone. Fortunately I found
people who could help me. They helped me improve my English, find a safe place to live, and
develop a skill. They introduced me to Jesus. I trusted Him to save me. But I couldn’t forgive
myself. I blamed myself for what I had been through. Fortunately the safe place where I lived was
staffed by loving believers who understood my pain. They helped me see that I did not choose the
life I had led. They helped me to forgive myself. Now I am truly free in Christ.
1. How did God heal?
2. Whom did God use to help this person?
3. Share similar stories.
Group 5: God’s Provision
My wife was diagnosed several years ago with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Seeing her decline
and, ultimately, her death was very difficult. I don’t understand why God chooses to heal some
people’s physical illnesses and not others. But I do know this. God was with us every stop of the
way. My wife’s testimony throughout was radiant. I grew as a believer just watching her cope and
seeing her faith. And I trust that the day is coming when I will see her again, where there will be
no more weeping.
1. How did God heal?
2. Whom did God use to help this person?
3. Share similar stories.
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 7
Group Assignments
Group 1: The Historical Setting
Exodus 15:1–3, 22–27
1. How did God deliver His people from slavery in Egypt?
2. What do these verses teach us about praising God?
3. The rescued Israelites moved from praise to complaints. Can you illustrate how that
happens today?
Group 2: The Bitter Waters of Marah
Exodus 15:22–27
1. What were the people in these verses complaining about?
2. Have you ever been really thirsty? What was it like? If you have seen the movie or read
the book Unbroken, recall the thirst and hunger the men experienced.
3. How can circumstances cause people to forget God? What kinds of things do you hear
people complain about every day? Compare the circumstances of those who complain to
people in real need.
4. What did Moses do?
5. How did God respond?
Group 3: A Testing and a Challenge
Exodus 15:22–27
1. Why do you think the people who had walked through the parted waters of the Red Sea
now failed to trust God?
2. Discuss and explain this statement: “Difficult circumstances never test the power of an
omnipotent God; they only test the faith of God’s people to rely on God.”
3. What did God expect from His people? What did these expectations reveal about God?
4. How did God provide for His people?
Group 4: The Significance of Jehovah Rophe
Exodus 15:22–27
1. What does rophe mean? What, then, does Jehovah Rophe mean?
2. How has God created us so that we are equipped for healing? If you have seen or read
Unbroken, consider examples from this story.
3. What do you do when you face difficult circumstances—trust or complain? What does
your response say to people around you?
4. What should you do when you face difficult circumstances?
Group 5: A Balanced View of Healing for Today
Mark 1:29–38; James 5:13–16
1. What was Jesus’ primary ministry?
2. How is Jehovah Rophe seen in Jesus’ healing ministry?
3. What lessons can individuals and the church learn from Jesus’ example?
4. What does James teach about intercessory prayer for healing?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 8
Jehovah Nissi: The Lord Is Our Banner
Focal Text: Exodus 17:8–16
Key Verse: “Moses built an altar and named it The LORD is My Banner.” Exodus 17:15
Before the Session
1. Read week 8 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read all Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. If your church uses worship banners, display one or more of them. You may want to
invite someone to explain their purpose and meaning and how they connect with Jehovah
Nissi.
3. On the Internet search images for “worship banners” and “names of God.” Print some of
the selections you like. Provide construction or photocopy paper and felt-tip markers,
crayons, pens and pencils, colored construction paper, scissors, and glue. Display the
images of banners you have printed. Write on the board or a large sheet of paper the
names of God studied so far including Jehovah Nissi. Or you may want to write all
thirteen names of God from Names of God on the board.
4. Consider the hymn “His Banner over Us” or the chorus “Great and Mighty.” Or look
online at “His Banner over Me”; it’s available on YouTube. Another song available on
the Internet, “Because of Who You Are,” uses a number of the names of God including
Jehova Nissi. A familiar hymn you may want to use is “There’s a Royal Banner.”
5. Bring an umbrella.
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, show them your church’s worship banner and/or the printed
images from the Internet. Invite everyone to create a personal worship banner about one
or more of the names of God. People may choose to focus on one name or several names.
They may make something as small as a bookmark, something larger like a personal
poster, or a sketch that might be used to create a banner for worship.
2. After everyone has arrived and had opportunity to begin working on a banner, invite
some people who have finished their work to tell what they have done. As they talk, those
still working can continue and finish what they are doing.
3. Lead a brief discussion about the reasons and benefits for using banners in worship.
(They add color, excitement, and a visual that can draw people to thoughts of God.) If
you have enlisted a speaker, call for the person to speak at this time.
4. Transition to this week’s name by saying: Jehova Nissi provides another way for us to
think of God and understand one more way He relates to and cares for His people.
5. Plan to lecture on this lesson or direct learners to form four small groups. Either use the
questions in planning your lecture, or cut them apart and give them to small groups.
Provide pens and paper and a variety of Bible translations.
6. Call for groups to report.
7. Lead in a general discussion using questions like these:
• What do you think people complain about when talking to God?
• Do you think they complain to God about the way He has treated them? Why or why
not?
• If we complain about life’s circumstances, are we, in effect, complaining to God about
God’s favoritism? Explain your answer.
• Can you think of any New Testament examples of such complaining? (Consider the
disagreements about some gifts being superior to others in 1 Corinthians.)
• What visual images project God’s presence for you? (For example, some people wear a
cross to communicate their relationship with God and to connect with other believers.
Seeing a church steeple may communicate God’s presence to some people.)
• What verses of Scripture have you memorized to reassure yourself of God’s love and
presence?
8. Show the umbrella. Point out that in many countries people use the umbrella in several
ways: they use it for protection from the sun as well as from the rain; and when it is not
open, they use it as a walking cane. They carry it all the time for help every day—not just
in dreary weather. Say: Our relationship with God should be a daily experience, a
continual, ongoing walk with God. We should not seek protection from God just when a
crisis comes; we should depend on Him and want to be in His presence all the time.
9. Lead participants to offer praises to Jehovah Nissi.
10. Sing or play a hymn or chorus or show a YouTube video before you dismiss.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Consider attaching a picture of the bronze serpent, an
umbrella, one of your church’s banners, or another image you discussed during your time
together.
2. Summarize some of the main points of your study of Jehovah Nissi. Remind everyone to
continue to praise God as Jehovah Nissi, God their Banner.
3. If you used a YouTube video during the session, send a link so participants can view it
again.
4. Remind them to memorize Exodus 17:15: “Moses built an altar and named it The LORD
is My Banner.”
5. Encourage the group to read chapter 9, “Jehovah Mekadesh: The God Who Sanctifies”
and the Focal Text: Leviticus 20:8.
6. If your meeting room is equipped with Wi-Fi, invite participants to bring handheld
electronic devices (smartphones, tablets, etc.) to the next session.
Names of God
Week 8
Group Assignments
Group 1: The Historical Context
Exodus 16:2–3, 22–27; 17:1, 3, 7
1. What had the people complained about?
2. How had God responded?
3. What test of obedience went along with God’s provision?
4. Did all the people obey? What happened?
5. Why did the people complain again?
6. What do you think about the people’s continued complaining to God?
Group 2: Recognizing the Enemy
Genesis 25:27–34; Exodus 17:8–16; Deuteronomy 25:17–19; 1 Samuel 15:2–3; 2 Samuel
1:6–11; 1 Peter 5:8
1. How did the Egyptians treat God?
2. Who were the Amalekites?
3. What is the only solution for sin?
Group 3: Israel Goes to War with Amalek; The Lord Is My Banner
Exodus 17:8–16; Psalm 60:4–6
1. What happened when the Israelites met the Amalekites in battle?
2. What did Moses do to help the Israelites prevail? What was the significance of Moses’
staff?
3. What was Joshua’s role?
4. Explain the meaning of Psalm 60:4–6.
Group 4: The Serpent on a Pole
Numbers 21; John 3:3, 14–15; 2 Corinthians 5:21
1. What difficulty did the Israelites face here? Why were they in this difficult situation?
2. What did God tell Moses to do?
3. What happened to the people who looked at the bronze serpent?
4. How did John compare the bronze snake with Jesus?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 9
Jehovah Mekadesh: The God Who Sanctifies
Focal Text: Leviticus 20:8
Key Verse: “You shall keep My statues and practice them; I am the LORD who sanctifies
you.” Leviticus 20:8
Before the Session
1. Read week 9 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read all Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. Write the word sanctification on the board.
3. Hymns about the holiness of God or our need to be holy are appropriate, such as
“Glorious Is Thy Name Most Holy” or “Holy, Holy, Holy.” At the end of the session, you
may want to sing “Take My Life and Let It Be Consecrated,” “Lord, I Want to Be a
Christian,” or “Take Time to Be Holy.” Choruses such as “Holy Is the Lord” or “Holy,
Holy” are also excellent choices.
4. Prepare group assignments, plan to lecture, or enlist people to lecture about each section
of this week’s lesson.
5. Prepare Scripture references from the following page on separate pieces of paper. Place
them in a basket, bowl, or gift bag.
6. Provide paper and pens, Bibles in a variety of translations, and Bible dictionaries.
7. Cut apart the sentence strips from Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary. Or print each
statement on a single sheet of paper as large as possible so you can attach it to the board
around the word sanctification. Provide masking tape if you make the mini-posters.
During the Session
1. As people arrive, direct them to form small groups of three to five. Give each small group
paper and pen. Tell the groups to learn all they can about sanctification. If they have
handheld electronic devices, they can look up the definition. They can search for the
word in Scripture using a website like www.biblegateway.com. They can look up sanctify,
sanctified, and sanctification in one translation. Then to get a fuller understanding of the
word, they can click on several other translations that may use a synonym. If your
meeting room does not have Wi-Fi, use the selected Scripture references following this
page. Distribute them among the groups. (To narrow the search, you may want to start
with these even if your room has Wi-Fi.) Call attention to the Bible translations,
dictionaries, and other resources provided.
2. When everyone has arrived, joined a group, and had opportunity to join in discussing the
meaning of sanctification, ask these questions:
• Who or what can be sanctified?
• What does it mean to be sanctified?
• For what purpose was or is someone or something sanctified?
As responses are given, you may want to write them on the board. Then distribute the
mini-poster definitions or sentence strips. Explain that these are parts of the longer
definition and explanation taken from Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary. As
statements are read, either add the main words, writing around sanctification on the
board; or invite the reader to tape the statement around the word on the board.
3. Transition to the lesson by saying we will better understand “Jehovah Mekadesh: The
God Who Sanctifies” because we have explored the meaning of sanctification. Explain
that holiness is a synonym of sanctification. Invite volunteers to read Leviticus 11:44 and
1 Peter 1:15–16. Connect these verses to the early discussion about the meaning of
sanctification.
4. Lecture on this lesson or direct participants to form five small groups.
5. Call for the five groups to report on their study and discussion. Connect thoughts from
various parts of the discussion. Emphasize and repeat important statements. Ensure that
all of the content is fully explained.
6. Invite the group to repeat with you Leviticus 20:8, this week’s verse For Memory and
Meditation.
7. Invite the group to call out praises to Jehovah Mekadesh.
8. In closing, sing a hymn of praise or dedication.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Summarize some of the main points of your study of
Jehovah Mekadesh. Remind everyone to continue to praise God as Jehovah Mekadesh,
the God who sanctifies.
2. Remind everyone to memorize Leviticus 20:8: “You shall keep My statues and practice
them; I am the LORD who sanctifies you.”
3. Suggest that as they pray this week, they ask God to show them ways they can become
more holy, putting away sin and obeying Him, finding ways to serve Him and walk with
Him daily.
4. Encourage the group to read chapter 10, “Jehovah Shalom: The Lord Is Peace” and the
Focal Text: Judges 6.
Names of God
Week 9
Scriptures about Sanctification
Genesis 2:3
Acts 20:32
Exodus 13:2
Acts 26:18
Exodus 31:13
Romans 6:22
Leviticus 21:8
Romans 15:16
2 Chronicles 26:14
1 Corinthians 1:2
Nehemiah 13:22
1 Corinthians 6:11
Ezekiel 37:28
1 Thessalonians 5:23
Joel 2:16
Week 9 Statements about Sanctification
1. “Process of being made holy resulting in a changed lifestyle for the believer.”
—Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
2. “The act or process of making holy, consecrated.”
—Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
3. “To stand in awe of someone or something.”
—Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
4. “Separate, contrasting with the profane.”
—Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
5. “God is separate; things and people dedicated to Him and to His use are separate.”
—Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
6. “The moral implications of this word came into focus with the prophets and became a
major emphasis in the New Testament.”
—Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 9
Group Assignments
Group 1: The Name in Israel’s History
Leviticus 20:8
1. Does learning about Jehovan Mekadesh have greater meaning as it builds on the earlier
names of God you have studied? Explain your answer.
2. Our text says the people were dealing with this question: “How should a redeemed people
live?” Why is this a relevant question today? In what ways are Christ followers set apart?
In what ways should they be set apart?
3. What has the book of Leviticus been called? What is it about?
Group 2: Holiness Expresses the Nature of God
Leviticus 20:7–8
1. What does Jehovah Mekadesh mean?
2. What is the first biblical reference to sanctification? Where is the second one?
3. What is God’s role in sanctification?
4. How can people maintain sanctification?
5. What did Hannah say about God? How would you state a similar praise today?
6. Why is holiness an essential attribute for God?
7. What impact did God’s holiness have on Isaiah?
8. How is the Holy Spirit a manifestation of this aspect of God’s character?
Group 3: The Holiness of God Demands Our Separation from Sin
Leviticus 18:4; 19:2; 20:8
1. What does God’s holiness demand of those who want to have a relationship with Him?
2. What are some examples of behavior consistent with our need to be holy?
3. What kinds of behavior today would characterize a holy person? Do you know anyone
you would describe as holy? Who and why?
4. What are moral challenges the Israelites faced? How are our challenges today like those
the Israelites faced? How are they different?
Group 4: Holiness Means Our Separation for Service
Leviticus 20:8; Romans 6:12–13
1. Define holiness.
2. What items were described as holy? Why or how were they holy?
3. Does this definition apply to people? Does it apply to people today?
4. What impact should the name Jehovah Mekadesh have on us today? In whose life do you
see evidence of such holiness?
Group 5: Practical Steps to Holy Living
Leviticus 20:8; 1 Peter 2:1–2
1. What advice did Peter offer to help believers develop a holy lifestyle?
2. What practical steps can you apply from 1 Peter?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 10
Jehovah Shalom: The Lord Is Peace
Focal Text: Judges 6
Key Verse: “Gideon built an altar there to the LORD and named it The Lord is Peace.”
Judges 6:24
Before the Session
1. Read week 10 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read all Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. Before the session research the history of the peace symbol and prepare to tell about it
briefly during the introductory time.
3. Draw a peace symbol on the board.
4. Prepare Scripture slips about peace.
5. Prepare group assignments or prepare to lecture or enlist people to lecture.
6. Possible hymns and choruses include: “Peace like a River,” “Like a River Glorious,” and
“We Are People of God’s Peace.” At the end of the session, you may want to sing “The
Lord Bless You and Keep You.
7. Provide Bibles in a variety of translations.
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, greet them with two fingers raised in a V shape (a peace sign) and
say, “Shalom.” Direct participants to greet one another in the same way and form small
groups of three to five.
2. Distribute Scriptures about peace to small groups or invite them to search for Scriptures
about peace on their personal handheld electronic devices. Tell them to read Scriptures
and be prepared to comment on what the Bible (the verses they read) says about peace.
Determine the number of Scriptures each group gets based on the number of groups you
have. You can also add to this number of Scripture references by selecting additional
Scriptures to add to the list. You nay also choose to have fewer Scriptures.
3. After small groups have done their work, say: The Bible has a lot to say about peace.
Peace was at the heart of one of the Old Testament offerings; a peace offering was
offered in response to a blessing, tied to thankfulness. The word was used in a common
greeting: Peace be with you. What did you read about peace in the Bible? Who will know
peace?
4. After the reports point out that peace is still a prominent topic among both Christians and
non-Christians. Briefly explain the meaning of the peace symbol (from the Internet).
Then say: Perhaps we find peace to be so important because peace is one aspect of God’s
character—“Jehovah Shalom: The Lord Is Peace.”
5. Lecture on the content of this unit or invite participants to form three groups to discuss
the content using the questions that follow in group assignments.
6. After the reports point out that peace or shalom communicates wholeness or
completeness. Invite someone to read Luke 10:6. Say: We are complete only when we are
in Christ Jesus. That’s when we know peace, when we become people of peace.
International missionaries in places where they take risks to share the good news refer to
indigenous Christians as “people of peace.” And indeed they are.
7. Call for praises to Jehovah Shalom, reminding the group to include thanksgiving for
blessings.
8. Lead the group in saying the verse For Meditation and Memory: “Gideon built an altar
there to the LORD and named it The LORD is Peace” (Judg. 6:24).
9. Sing one or more hymns and choruses. End with “The Lord Bless You and Keep You.”
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Summarize some of the main points of your study of
Jehovah Shalom. Remind everyone to continue to praise God as Jehovah Shalom, the
God who is peace. Perhaps attach an image of a peace symbol to your e-mail.
2. Remind everyone to memorize Judges 6:24: “Gideon built an altar there to the LORD and
named it The LORD is Peace.”
3. Suggest that as they pray this week, they voice peace offerings to God in thanksgiving for
all the blessings He has given them.
4. Encourage the group to read chapter 11, “Jehovah Tsidkenu: The Lord Our
Righteousness” and the Focal Text: Jeremiah 23:6.
Names of God
Week 10
Scriptures about Peace
Numbers 6:24–26
Luke 2:14
Psalm 4:8
Luke 2:29
Psalm 29:11
Luke 10:6
Psalm 34:14
John 14:27
Psalm 119:165
John 16:33
Proverbs 12:20
Acts 9:31
Proverbs 16:7
Romans 5:1
Ecclesiastes 3:8
Romans 8:6
Isaiah 9:6–7
Romans 12:18
Isaiah 26:3
Romans 15:13
Isaiah 32:17–18
Galatians 5:22
Isaiah 48:22
Philippians 4:7
Isaiah 52:7
Colossians 3:15
Isaiah 55:12
Hebrews 12:11
Jeremiah 6:14
Hebrews 12:14
Matthew 5:9
James 2:16
Matthew 10:34–36
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 10
Group Assignments
Group 1: The Period of the Judges
Judges 2:2; 6
1. What was the condition of worship at this time?
2. What were the priorities of the Israelites?
3. What was the cycle of the people’s relationship with God?
4. What was the role of the judge?
5. How does the Israelites’ story sound like life today?
Group 2: Gideon, God’s Deliverer
Judges 6
1. Who were the Midianites?
2. Whom does God call to do His work today?
3. How did Gideon first respond to God’s call?
4. How can God’s working through Gideon encourage us today?
5. How does Gideon respond the second time?
6. Why is doubting your own abilities a sin?
Group 3: The Lord Is Peace; Steps to Peace
Judges 6
1. How did Gideon respond when he became convinced he was in the presence of God’s
messenger?
2. What does shalom mean? Give examples.
3. Once the Israelites entered the promised land, how did they respond to God?
4. How does Jesus relate to the concept of peace? Use examples.
5. If you do not know God’s peace, what should you do?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 11
Jehovah Tsidkenu: The Lord Our Righteousness
Focal Text: Jeremiah 23:6
Key Verse: “In His days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely; and this is
His name by which He will be called, ‘The LORD our righteousness.’” Jeremiah 23:6
Before the Session
1. Read week 11 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read all Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. Prepare a brief lecture on the meaning of righteousness, or enlist someone else to do this.
On the Internet go to www.mystudybible.com. Click on LIBRARY. Scroll down until
you find Dictionaries. Click on Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary (or another
dictionary) and type in the word righteousness.
3. Write the word righteousness on the board.
4. If your meeting room has Wi-Fi, contact participants to bring handheld electronic devices
to look up Scripture verses, or prepare the verses on the following page. Note that many
of these Scripture selections have several verses. Distribute them equally among small
groups.
5. Among the hymns and choruses for this week, you may choose one of these: “Guide Me,
O Thou Great Jehovah,” “God Is Righteous in His Doings,” or “Seek Ye First.” You may
want to use a solo, recording, or YouTube video of “Lead Me Lord.”
6. Plan to lecture on lesson content, enlist one or more people to lecture, or prepare
assignments for small groups.
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, invite them to form five small groups. Tell them to discuss this
question: How do you respond to situations you encounter where you don’t approve of
the morality involved? After people have had time to discuss this question, ask them to
continue their discussion with this question: How can Christians communicate a higher
standard of morality without alienating people they want to love and to reach for Christ?
2. Allow a few minutes for this discussion. Then tell them they are going to see what the
Bible says about righteousness. Distribute Scripture selections. If your room has Wi-Fi,
invite groups to continue to look up verses and commentary on electronic devices.
3. Call for groups to report on the meaning of righteousness.
4. Lecture from the Bible dictionary (or call on the one you’ve enlisted) about the meaning
of righteousness.
5. Give small groups paper and felt-tip markers. Invite them to write a brief definition of
righteousness. Tell them to write in large letters so you can post the definitions on the
board around the word righteousness.
6. Invite groups to share their responses and to discuss one another’s definitions.
7. Now give groups the group assignments (or lecture on content).
8. After each group reports, ask them to give a contemporary application for their content.
Open this part of the discussion to the entire group.
9. Invite participants to join you in saying Jeremiah 23:6, this week’s verse For Memory
and Meditation: “In His days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely;
and this is His name by which He will be called, ‘The LORD our righteousness.’”
10. Lead in offering praises to God, our Righteousness.
11. Close with a hymn or praise song about righteousness.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Summarize some of the main points of your study of
Jehovah Tsidkenu. Remind everyone to continue to praise God as Jehovah Tsidkenu: The
Lord Our Righteousness.
2. Remind everyone to memorize Jeremiah 23:6: “In His days Judah will be saved, and
Israel will dwell securely; and this is His name by which He will be called, ‘The LORD
our righteousness.’”
3. Encourage the group to read chapter 12, “Jehovah Rohi: The Lord Is My Shepherd” and
the Focal Text: Psalm 23.
Names of God
Week 11
Scriptures about Righteousness
Genesis 15:1–6
1 Kings 10:9
Job 6:29; 29:14; 36:3
Psalm 4:1; 5:8; 7:17; 9:8; 11:7; 23:3; 31:1
Proverbs 10:2; 11:5, 19; 14:34; 15:9; 16:8
Isaiah 9:7; 32:17; 45:8
Daniel 9:7
Amos 5:24
Zephaniah 2:3
Malachi 3:3
Matthew 5:6, 10, 20; 6:33
Romans 1:17; 3:21–26
1 Timothy 6:11
2 Timothy 3:16
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 11
Group Assignments
Group 1: The Historical Setting
2 Kings 23:26–27; Jeremiah 23:6
1. What was the status of Israel, the northern kingdom, and Judah, the southern kingdom?
2. What did God call Jeremiah to do?
3. What kind of king was Josiah?
4. What happened after Josiah died?
5. In what ways can you compare this period in history to our own contemporary world?
Group 2: God’s Spokesman
2 Samuel 7:12–13; Jeremiah 21:2; 11:3–4; 23:6; 32:1–5
1. What response did Jeremiah get?
2. What did Zedekiah do in response to Jeremiah’s words of warning?
3. What was Jeremiah’s message and demonstration of hope?
Group 3: God’s Character Revealed in His Name
Jeremiah 23:1–6
1. What was Jeremiah’s indictment?
2. What did Jeremiah see in the future?
3. What is the significance of Zedekiah’s name?
4. What do you see regarding other names of God in this situation?
5. What is the message for people today?
Group 4: What Does This Name Mean Today?
Deuteronomy 16:18; 25:15–16; Psalm 85:10–13; 89:14–16; Jeremiah 23:6
1. What does tsedek mean?
2. What are specific implications for people today?
3. What does the Bible say about the relationship of God’s blessing and righteousness?
Group 5: Fulfilled in Christ
Isaiah 6:5; 64:6; Jeremiah 23:6; 2 Corinthians 5:20–21; Philippians 3:5–6, 8–9
1. What is an appropriate response to the righteousness of God?
2. Who is the only standard of righteousness? How do we know what that standard is? Who
can meet it? What, then, can we do?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 12
Jehovah Rohi: The Lord Is My Shepherd
Focal Text: Psalm 23
Key Verse: “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.”
John 10:11
Before the Session
1. Read week 12 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read all Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. Enlist one or more people to share why this is a special passage of Scripture for them.
3. A number of hymns and choruses relate to Psalm 23. Choose one of your group’s
favorites, perhaps one of these: “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need,” “He Leadeth Me!
O Blessed Thought,” “Dear Lord, Lead Me Day by Day,” “Surely Goodness and Mercy,”
“All Day Long,” “The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want,” “The King of Love My
Shepherd Is,” and “In Heavenly Love Abiding.”
4. Prepare copies of the introductory activity for four small groups. Give instructions to one
person in each group who will be the leader of the small group for this experience.
5. Prepare group discussion guides or determine another way of presenting this material.
6. Provide extra Bibles or print copies of Psalm 23 in various translations.
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, direct them to form four small groups. As people are arriving,
direct them to talk about favorite Scripture passages, perhaps verses they have
memorized, and why they are significant.
2. When most of the people have arrived, give instructions to one person in each group to
begin reading and discussing Psalm 23.
3. After small groups have had time to complete the instructions, allow for a few comments
about the experience and to share personal thoughts about this psalm.
4. If you have enlisted someone to give a testimony about this psalm, call for it now.
5. Lecture on this content or give questions to the four small groups. Note that “God as Our
Shepherd” is divided for two groups.
6. Call for reports from the groups. Invite others to comment on the significance of each
verse as it is discussed.
7. Small groups were not assigned “Jesus, Our Good Shepherd.” Lead a discussion about
this part of the text. Invite volunteers to read John 10:11–15 and John 7:15–17 as you
lead the discussion about each of these New Testament passages.
8. Lead a time of praising God for being our Shepherd and for His Son, the Good Shepherd
who laid down His life for us.
9. Lead the group in repeating John 10:11, the verse For Meditation and Memory, “I am the
good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.”
10. Sing a hymn or chorus related to Psalm 23.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Summarize some of the main points of your study of
Jehovah Rohi. Remind everyone to continue to praise God as Jehovah Rohi: The Lord Is
My Shepherd. Suggest that they memorize this psalm if they have not already done so
and to use it as a prayer to God.
2. Remind everyone to memorize John 10:11: “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd
lays down His life for the sheep.”
3. Encourage the group to read chapter 13, “Jehovah Shammah: The Lord Is There” and the
Focal Text: Ezekiel 48:35.
Names of God
Week 12
A Look at Psalm 23
In small groups follow these instructions as you read and discuss Psalm 23. Everyone needs a
Bible. All Bibles in a small group do not need to be in the same translation. Encourage everyone
to participate.
1. Make sure everyone has a Bible or a copy of Psalm 23.
2. Invite everyone to turn to Psalm 23.
3. Ask one person to read the entire psalm while everyone else follows along in their
translation.
4. Ask: What images are meaningful to you? You may want to discuss whether these vary
from one translation to another.
5. Ask someone to read it again, perhaps in a different translation.
6. Ask again: What did you hear/read that resonates with you? Why did you connect with
those words or image?
7. Ask: What image of God do you see in Psalm 23?
8. Ask: What does this text say to you personally?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 12
Group Assignments
Group 1: The Context of the Psalm
Psalm 23
1. Who is credited with writing Psalm 23?
2. What events in David’s life make this psalm even more meaningful?
3. What in your own life makes this psalm even more meaningful to you?
Group 2: The Principle Idea
2 Samuel 5:2; Psalm 23; Isaiah 40:11; 44:28; 63:11; Jeremiah 31:5, 10; Ezekiel 34:11–16
1. What does rohi mean?
2. How did the prophets use the image of God as Shepherd? Discuss specific examples?
3. What words did the prophets use, in talking about God as Shepherd, to show God’s active
provision for His people?
4. How did David use this image of God in leading the people of Israel?
Group 3: God as Our Shepherd, Part 1
Psalm 23:1–3
1. What are some ways this psalm helps people connect with it personally?
2. How does the psalm speak of God’s awareness of individual needs and His provision for
them?
3. What are possible meanings of restoration? What does verse 3 mean to you?
4. What is the tension between rest and work? Compare Matthew 11:28–30, a passage about
work and rest.
5. What is the promise of being led in the “paths of righteousness”?
Group 4: God as Our Shepherd, Part 2
Psalm 23:4–6
1. The Bible speaks often about fear; see, for example, Joshua 1:9; Psalm 56:3; 2 Timothy
1:7. Compare these (and other favorites) verses about being afraid. How does Psalm 23:4
provide reassurance?
2. What is a rod? What is a staff?
3. Do you feel as David did when you are in “the house of the LORD”? Explain.
4. What does knowing God is present with you throughout your lifetime mean to you?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)
Names of God
Week 13
Jehovah Shammah: The Lord Is There
Focal Text: Ezekiel 48:35
Key Verse: “‘Behold, the virgin shall be with child and shall bear a Son, and they shall
call His name Immanuel,’ which translated means, ‘GOD with us.’” Matthew 1:23
Before the Session
1. Read week 13 of Names of God. Read “During the Session” to prepare for this week’s
session. Read all Scriptures referenced in this chapter.
2. This lesson looks at one more name of God, but it also transitions to the New Testament.
On a large piece of paper, write Jesus. Place it on a table or on a focal wall where people
can write around it. Provide felt-tip markers. If you place it on a table for people to write
on it, plan to move it to a focal wall at the beginning of the session. Whether on a table or
the wall, make sure the markers will not bleed through the paper.
3. Sing a favorite song about the names of God or Jesus. You may want to choose one of
these: “There’s Something about That Name,” “Take the Name of Jesus with You,” “All
Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name,” “Blessed Be the Name of the Lord,” “Emmanuel,” “His
Name Is Wonderful,” “Jesus Is the Sweetest Name I Know,” or “Jesus, Name Above All
Names.”
4. Prepare copies of the group discussion guides or plan to lecture on the content.
5. Prepare a poster with all the names of God and their meanings covered in this study (titles
of weeks/chapters).
During the Session
1. As participants arrive, invite them to write a favorite name of Jesus on the large sheet of
paper. Then direct them to form four groups. Direct them to the poster of the names of
God you have created or to the contents page of Names of God. Tell them to spend a few
minutes reflecting on this study and decide which name of God is most meaningful to
them individually. You may want to have each group take a vote and total the results to
see which names of God are most meaningful to the entire group.
2. Introduce this week’s name. Enlist a volunteer to read Ezekiel 48:35. Explain the
transition from the Old Testament to the New Testament and comment on the banner
created with the names of Jesus.
3. Continue to lecture about the content of this chapter or give group discussion guides to
the four groups.
4. Call for reports from the groups. Comment throughout and affirm their work.
5. Small groups were not assigned “The Ultimate Fulfillment of Jehovah Shammah.” Lead a
discussion about this part of the text. Enlist volunteers to read John 17:24 and Revelation
21:3, 10–11, 22–23 as you lead the discussion about each of these New Testament
passages.
6. Lead a time of praising God for being present with us and for a future time when we will
be present with Him in heaven. Thank Him for sending His Son to live on earth, to teach
us by example and to give His life for us.
7. Lead the group in repeating Matthew 1:23, the verse For Meditation and Memory,
“Behold, the virgin shall be with child and shall bear a Son, and they shall call His name
Immanuel,’ which translated means, ‘GOD with us.’”
8. Sing a hymn or chorus about the name(s) of God or Jesus.
After the Session
1. Send an e-mail to all learners. Summarize some of the main points of your study of
Jehovah Shammah. Remind everyone to continue to praise God as Jehovah Shammah:
The Lord Is There.
2. Thank everyone for attending this study. Share some of the favorite names discussed
during the last session.
3. Remind everyone to memorize Matthew 1:23: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child and
shall bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,’ which translated means, ‘GOD
with us.’”
4. Announce plans for your next study. Invite everyone to attend. Provide details—place,
dates, time. Tell them where they can pick up their study guides. Suggest that they bring
someone with them to the study.
Names of God
Week 13
Group Assignments
Group 1: Ezekiel’s World
Ezekiel 48:35
1. What was going on when Ezekiel was a prophet?
2. What was Ezekiel’s message? How did it change over time? Give examples.
3. Why did God promise restoration?
4. What would restoration entail?
Group 2: The Unique Aspect of Israel’s Religion
Ezekiel 48:35
1. What is distinct about Israel’s religion?
2. How has God’s presence with His people been evident in the past?
3. What did the people of Ezekiel’s day believe about God’s presence?
Group 3: God’s Presence in Jesus
Ezekiel 48:35; Matthew 1:23
1. Explain the transition of God’s presence from a place (the temple) to a person (Jesus)?
2. How did Jesus’ coming fulfill Old Testament prophecy?
Group 4: God’s Presence in Us
Ezekiel 48:35; John 14:17; John 17:1–6, 18, 20, 22; 1 Corinthians 3:16
1. Where is God’s presence manifest today? How does that realization make you feel?
2. What did Jesus promise when He prepared His disciples for His departure?
3. What is your responsibility as a Christ follower, to show the world who God is?
© Names of God (Auxano Press)