WOMEN IN THE BIBLE

North Christian Church Women’s Bible Study
The Women of the Bible: The Woman of Samaria

Topic
The Woman of Samaria

Historical Context (From MacArthur Study Bible)
Samaria:

• Samaria is the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, named by King Omri after the nation split politically.
• Samaria was taken captive by Assyria in 722 BC (2Ki 17:1-6).
• Assyria led the majority of the people from the Northern tribes away (into the region today which is Northern Iraq), however left a sizable population of Jews in the Northern Samaritan region and transported many non-Jews into Samaria.
• These groups intermingled to form a mixed race through intermarriage. When Jews returned from captivity, tension developed between them and the Samaritans. Instead of worshipping Yahweh at Jerusalem, the Samaritans established their worship at Mt. Gerizim in Samaria (Joh 4:20-22).
• Samaritans regarded only the Pentateuch (Genesis-Deuteronomy) as authoritative. As a result, the Jews spurned the Samaritans, considering them heretical. Strong ethnic and cultural tensions existed between the two groups, so both avoided contact as much as possible (Ezr 4:1-24; Neh 4:1-6; Luk 10:25-37).

• Read John 4
• Don’t lose sight of the overall purpose of this chapter and the “big picture” themes.
• Have fun and see how this chapter can edify and teach women regarding the unity of the faith.

• V4:1- 4 - In verse 4, we read that Jesus “…had to pass through Samaria.” “Had to pass” may have referred to the fact that this was the shorter route and Jesus may have wanted to save time, but given His omniscience and His mission, why else would the apostle John likely have chosen this phrase? While this was the shortest route for a traveler going from Galilee to Jerusalem, Pharisees often avoided this route to avoid the Samaritans (Luk 9:51-53). How can we apply this to our lives when it comes to divine appointments? What more does the Bible have to say about divine appointments (Psa 37:23, Act 8:26-39, 2Ti 4:2, 1Pe 3:15)?
• V4: 5 -6 – What is noteworthy about the exact place in Samaria where Jesus arrives (Gen 48:22; 33:19)?
• V4: 6 (cont’d) - What is the significance of Jesus being weary? How does considering Christ’s humanity enrich your spiritual walk and your relationship with Him (Heb 2:14-17; 4:15; 6:19-20, Luk 2:52; 22:42, Phi 2:5-8)?
• V4:7 – In this verse, it appears that the woman of Samaria came alone (unless there were others who simply were not mentioned). Women generally went in groups to draw water. What are some of the possible reasons she was alone (Joh 4:16-19)? How does God use our own times of solitude for His purpose (Mat 6:6; 14:23)?
• V4:7 cont’d – In this verse, Jesus asks for a drink. How is Jesus setting the stage for His discussion on spiritual thirst? The Word commands us to serve others. What are some of the blessings that come with serving others instead of focusing on self? How is demonstrating Christ-like love, serving others, and the Great Commission intrinsically intertwined (Mat 10:42, Joh 3:16; 13:35)?
• V4:9 – What is the significance of the Samaritan woman expressing her surprise at the fact that Jesus, a Jew, is associating with her, a Samaritan? How is understanding this social “chasm” important in preparing her soul for what is to come? What does His Word teach us over and over about the role humility plays in receiving Christ and His Gospel (1Co 1:28-30, Luk 19:1-10)?
• V4:10- Jesus immediately describes what is of God as a gift. What can be said about the need for being humbled before being able to receive grace? His word is chock-full of examples of humility preceding grace. What are some of these examples (Mat 13:1-23)?
• V4:10 cont’d - Here, we read of Jesus using the Samaritan’s need for water to sustain physical life to serve as a greater lesson for her need for spiritual transformation. The Old Testament addresses the term Living Water with important metaphorical significance. What are some of these metaphors (Eze 47:9, Zec 14:8, Isa 1:16-18; 12:3; 44:3, Eze 36:25-27)?
• V4:11 – What analogy might we make here from the natural “deep well” to the spiritual? (Isa 12:3; 49:10, Zec 14:8, Psa 136, 1Co 2:9)?
• V4:12 – How does the Samaritan woman depict Jacob in this verse? How is this verse important in establishing the differences between what man can do and what God can do? What causes us to focus more on the natural than the spiritual (Psa 147:15-18, Job 37:11-13, Eph 1:11, Act 4:27-28)?
• V4:13 – Why might this analogy of thirst be so powerful for the woman at the well? Consider the climate of Samaria. Where else in the Bible does the topic of thirst come up (Exo 17:1-6, Num 20:2-11, Deu 8:15, Psa 78:15-16, Isa 48:21, Psa 23:1-2)?
• V4:14 - What can be said about the fact that Jesus shares He will not just give water but the actual “well of water” (Gal 2:20, Rom 5:5)?
• V4:15 – What is the woman desiring at this point? How can we relate to her desires? How often do we need to be reminded through our natural desires, and our exhaustion through human efforts, that Christ is our only true source of peace (Joh 16:33, Phi 4:7)?
• V4:16-18 – What is the result of Christ’s instruction to “Go, call your husband…”? What is He helping the woman realize in these verses (1Pe 5:6-7, Jam 4:6, 10)?
• V4:19-22 – In John 4:19-21 we read of the distinctions between how the Samaritans and the Jews worshiped God. They both were commanded by their forefathers to identify a special place for worship (Deu 12:5). The Jews chose Jerusalem (2Sa 7:5-13, 2Ch 6:6) and the Samaritans (only recognizing Genesis-Deuteronomy as being divinely inspired) worshipped at Shechem (Gen 12:6-7). What does Jesus point out to the woman in this verse about the inadequacy of her people’s worship?
• V4:23–24 - To what “hour” is Jesus referring? How is He setting the stage for the woman to understand that true worship is through the promised Messiah? What must she know about the promised Messiah based on the Pentateuch? (Gen 12:3; 49:10, Deu 18:15)?
• V4:23-24 Cont’d - What do we see about man’s need for the visible to understand the invisible?
• V:4:25 – What is involved in God’s perfect sequence of events in the dialogue between Jesus and the woman, making the soil fertile for Christ’s revelation of Himself as Messiah? What did the woman need to hear up to this point before being ready to grasp this verse? Once again, how can we relate to this? What can we learn from this and take with us as we share His Gospel (Mat 13:1-23)?

North Christian Church Women’s Bible Study
The Women of the Bible: Rebekah

Topic
Rebekah

Reading Outline

• Read Genesis 24; 25:19-28; 26:6-35; 27; Romans 9:6-16.
• Focus on the person of Rebekah, the nature of her different relationships, as well as the “big picture” themes.
• Have fun and see how learning more about Rebekah can edify and teach us women regarding the unity of the faith.
• As you go through the study outline, remember, these questions are purposefully open-ended with the intent to generate dialogue. See where the Spirit leads you in Scripture, and come prepared to share.

• Genesis 24; 25:19-28; 26:6-35; 27; Romans 9:6-16

• Rebekah is first mentioned in the genealogy of the descendants of Nahor, Abraham’s brother (Gen 22:20-24).
• Rebekah becomes Isaac’s wife (Gen 24:5-67).
• Rebekah is the mother of Esau and Jacob (Gen 25:21-28).
• Rebekah encourages Jacob to deceive Isaac and then to flee (Gen 27:1-29, 42-46).

• V 24:2-8 – What is the significance of Abraham finding a wife for his son Isaac from his own country and not from among the Canaanites (Gen 17:7-8, Gen 18:17-19 cf Gal 3:8-9)?
• V 24:2-8 cont’d - What can be said about God’s faithfulness and purpose in the lives of those He has chosen (1Co 1:9, Eph 1:1-14, 1Th 5:24, 2Ti 1:9)?
• V24:12-14 – What is revealed about the heart of Abraham’s servant? How does his authority orientation to The Lord aid Rebekah’s decision to go with him and marry Isaac (Gen 24:58, Psa 146:3-6)? What role does prayer play in this specific account? How does prayer and dependence on Christ direct our paths? What happens when our eyes drift off of His purpose (Pro 3:6, Mat 14:22-33, Joh 15:16; 16:26, Rom 8:28)?
• V24:15-17 – In these verses, we are introduced to Rebekah and learn that she is of Abraham’s lineage. She is described as beautiful and a virgin. What is the significance of these details being recorded? What are the blessings that come with virginity (Rom 12:1-21, 1Th 4:3-8)? What does the Bible say about beauty (Psa 19:1, Sos 7:1, Eph 2:10, 1Pe 3:3-5)?
• V24:15-17 cont’d - What are the similarities and the differences between God’s selection of a bride for Isaac and God’s selection of the Church as the Bride for Christ (Jer 31:3, Joh 6:39-46, Eph 5:27)?
• V24:18 – What does Rebekah’s statement, “drink, my lord”, demonstrate about her character? What is the role of servanthood in the Spiritual life (Jos 22:5, Joh 12:26, Rom 12:1, Gal 5:13, 1Pe 1:12)?
• V24:20 – What is the significance of Rebekah going back and drawing water for the camels, too? How might we apply this to our daily lives (Mat 5:38-42, Luk 17:10, Gal 6:7-9)?
• V24:24-25 – How would you describe Rebekah’s level of confidence in her interactions with Abraham’s servant? To what would you attribute her composure/confidence? What is the role of the gifts and the gold jewelry given to Rebekah?
• V24:26-27 – What must it have been like for Rebekah to see this man praising the Lord in this moment- specifically the “God of my master, Abraham”? Have you ever been made aware of a time when you were the answer to someone’s specific prayers? How does this encourage you and others in the Body of Christ? What are the key ingredients for such awareness? What kind of comfort do we experience when we meet someone who worships our same Lord, Jesus Christ?
• V24:28-31 – Rebekah runs to her family to tell them about “these things.” What does Scripture reveal about the nature of what she shares with her family? How would you describe Rebekah and her family’s reverence for the Blesser vs. the actual blessings in this exchange?
• V24:46 – What is the significance of Rebekah “quickly” responding to the servant’s request for a drink? What does the Bible have to say about the timeliness of responding when prompted by the Spirit (Psa 119: 59-61, Rom 12:11, Col 3:23)?
• V24:52-53 – Whom are the gifts mentioned in this verse ultimately honoring? What do you think the experience of being a vessel of the Lord was like for Rebekah, her family, and for Abraham’s servant? What else does the Bible have to say about being His vessel (Luk 8:16, Joh 15:1-27, 1Co 6:19-20, 2Ti 2:21)?
• V24:55-58 – How can we relate to Rebekah’s mother and brother’s request to be with her for 10 more days? What is the nature of Rebekah’s obedience and faith in this moment? What things can get in the way of our own expediency to obedience after being prompted by The Spirit?
• V24:59-61 – What is the nature of Rebekah’s send-off? What is the role of the blessing given by Rebekah’s family? How does prayer and blessing of this sort honor God and encourage both parties (the one being called in a certain direction in their Spiritual walk and their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ)?
• V24:65 – Upon identifying Isaac, Rebekah immediately covers herself with her veil. What is the significance of this custom (1Co 11:2-6)?
• V24:67 – Isaac is comforted by Rebekah. What does Scripture say about women’s role as “helper”? How might we apply this to being Christ’s bride (Gen 2:18, Pro 31)?

• V25:19-20 – What is the significance of Isaac’s genealogy being recorded (Gen 15:5-7)? What is the significance behind names in the Bible (Gen 17:5; 21:6)?
• V25:21 – We see Isaac turning to prayer after 20 years of Rebekah’s barrenness (cf Gen 25:26). What is the significance of this verse? How can we compare this to Abraham and Sarah (Gen 17:15-19)? God often operates in the realm of what seems impossible to man. What kind of impact does this have on His children (Jdg 7:2, Jer 29:8-14, Luk 18:27)?
• V25:22 – In this verse we see Rebekah turn to God in her discomfort during pregnancy. How does God use discomfort to help turn us to Him? There are numerous examples recorded of this in the Bible, what are some that come to mind (Act 9:3-6, Jon 1:8-10)? What are some examples in the Bible of how God receives His children when they turn to Him (Luk 11:9-11; 15:11-31)?
• V25:23 – God answers Rebekah’s inquiry “why then am I this way?” How might Rebekah’s circumstance and God’s answer remind us of how He defines a blessing vs. how the world defines blessing (Deu 30:16, Pro 16:20, Jer 17:7-8, Phi 1:21; 4:11-13, 19)?
• V25:23 cont’d – The Lord lets Rebekah know that she will be having two very different children, one stronger than the other, and the older serving the younger. What does this verse say about God’s sovereignty (Cf Rom 9:10-14)? How does this verse also reinforce personhood in the womb (Psa 139:13-14, Isa 49:5, Jer 1:5, Gal 1:15)?
• V25:28 – Here we read of clear differences between Esau and Jacob and parental favoritism. What does God’s Word have to say about partiality (Deu 1:16-17, Pro 28:21, Jam 3:17)? How does partiality blind us from His purpose?

• V26:1-5 – What are the different unconditional blessings the Lord promises Isaac? What are promises God has given to all believers in Christ as their Lord and Savior (Deu 31:8, Isa 40:31, Joh 14:13-16, Phi 4:19, Jam 1:5; 4:7)?
• V26:6-7 – Isaac falls into the same pattern as his father, Abraham (Gen 12:11-14). What does this juxtaposition of obedience and deceit reveal about the flesh of man? What is Rebekah’s response to her husband’s introduction of her as his sister? How does God’s Spirit guide those under authority in the realm of marriage (or other relationships i.e work, church) (Rom 7:15-20; 13:1-5, 1Pe 2:13-25; 3:1-6)?
• V26: 8-9 – What can be said about God’s timing as it relates to Abimelech looking out the window and seeing Rebekah with Isaac? Contrast this to God’s intervention with Abimelech and Sarai in Gen 20:3. What are the many ways God intervenes in our lives (2Ki 6:17, Psa 23:3, Pro 20:12, Eph 1:16-21)?
• V26: 10-11 – We read of Ambilech, a pagan king, imposing the death penalty on anyone who touches either Isaac or Rebekah. What does this say about who or what can be used by God to accomplish His work (Isa 10:5, Hab 1:5-11, Rom 8:28)?
• V26: 12-21 – Rebekah is alongside Isaac as they go through prosperity and blessings but also must endure the challenges when being envied by the Philistines and facing territorial conflict. It is not until the 3rd well is dug that there are no quarrels. We don’t know how much time passes between moving to the Gerar valley and the digging of the 3 wells, but we certainly see time and effort expended. What might this have been like for Rebekah? How can we relate to this?
• V26: - 24-25 – What does God’s reaffirmation of the Abrahamic Covenant accomplish here? How can we be encouraged by this (Deu 31:6, Psa 27:1; 46:1; 55:22, Isa 41:13-14, Luk 12:22-26)?
• V26:28 – Abimilech states that he understands that the Lord is the source of Isaac’s blessings. How do we see Isaac and Rebekah’s obedience impact their ability to witnesses on behalf of the Lord? How might we be encouraged by this (Deu 28:1-14, Mat 6:33)?
• V26: 32-33 – We read that Isaac’s servants dig a well and find water on the same day that Isaac makes a covenant with Abimelech. What is significant about this (Deu 29:9, Psa 37:11; 68:6)?
• V26: 34-35 –Esau brings grief upon Issac and Rebekah. Why are they saddened? How does this account reinforce the truth of the need to keep our focus on Christ and not on people (Psa 1:1-6, Rom 8:5, Phi 4:8)?

North Christian Church Women’s Bible Study
The Women of the Bible: Ruth

Topic
The Book of Ruth

Historical Context (From Zondervan Study Bible)

• Author: Unknown
• Audience: God’s chosen people, the Israelites
• Setting: A time of peace between Israel and Moab. The book is silent about the possible underlying hostility between the Judahites and the Moabites. Moab encompassed the expansive plateau between the Dead Sea and the Eastern Desert on both sides of the Arnon River Gorge (see map provided at Bible Study).
• Date: Ruth lived during the time of the judges; this book was written sometime after David became king circa 1010 BC.
• Theme: Ruth, a Moabite woman, proves to be a model of faithfulness in Israel during the period of the judges.

• Read the entire book of Ruth, chapters 1-4.
• Don’t lose sight of the overall purpose of the book, the “big picture” themes.
• Have fun and see how this book can edify and teach women regarding the unity of the faith.

• Ruth, from reuth, means “something worth seeing”, or could also mean “a female friend”.
• Ruth is from the land of Moab, where idolatry was prevalent. In marrying women of Moab, Mahlon (Ruth’s husband) and Kilion (Orpah’s husband) sinned against the Mosaic Law, which prohibited any association with the Moabites (Deu 7:3; 23:3).
• Ruth is A Young Widow

• Ruth and her sister, Orpah, followed in their mother in-law’s footsteps of widowhood at a young age. We are not told if these women had been influenced towards God by their marriage into a Hebrew family.
• Newly widowed, Ruth did not seek for self-pity, nor is any bitterness manifested in her heart, unlike her mother-in-law, Naomi. Naomi’s self-confessed bitterness over the loss of her husband and sons spoke of her lack of faith in God’s providence. When Naomi decides to return to her land of Bethlehem, Orpah turns back to remain in Moab while Ruth loved Naomi and was willing to leave her own land to share the unknown future with Naomi. She “…revealed a quiet fidelity so characteristic of her association with the embittered woman…” (Lockyer, p. 146).
• Ruth exhibits an unselfish form of devotion as can be seen when she cries out, “Don’t urge me to leave you” (Ruth 1:16).

• Ruth is A Determined Convert

• In spite of her background and association with the Moabites, she became a devout worshiper of God.
• She must have seen that Naomi’s God was completely different from the gods she worshipped.
• She states “Thy God shall be my God and thy people my people” (Ruth 1:16) - her firm decision to follow Jehovah, and identify herself with His people, brought her rich reward, including becoming ancestress of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

• Ruth is A Humble Gleaner

• Ruth was not ashamed of the low order of her work as she took her place as a gleaner with the poor and outcast (p 147).
• She was grateful for the kindness that had been shown to her by a stranger in a strange land.

• Ruth is An Honored Mother

• “God smiled upon the marriage of honorable Boaz and virtuous Ruth, and blessed them with a son whom they named Obed which means ‘a servant who worships’. As Ruth was a servant who came to worship Jehovah, we can imagine her son’s name as being expressive of her own conversion from idolatry” (148).
• Ruth, a Gentile by birth, became a part of the chosen line through which the Savior of the world appeared.

• v1:6 What motivates Naomi to return to Bethlehem? Is it a “push” from her emotions/circumstance, a “pull” from the Lord, or a combination of both? How does our Lord use both to accomplish His will in our lives?
• v1:8-13 What do these verses reveal about Naomi’s relationship with her Lord? What is the significance of her sharing that “…The Lord’s hand has turned against me!”? How would this strike you if someone very near and dear to you said such words? How would you respond? (Job 1:21)
• v1:14 Why does Ruth cling to Naomi? What is she clinging to? Where are her eyes and why is this important? (Heb 12:2)
• v1:15 Why does Naomi encourage Ruth to go back to her gods and be with her sister? What does this reveal about her state of mind?
• v1:16-18 Why is Ruth willing to leave her own land and share an unknown future with her aging mother-in-law? What is noteworthy about Ruth’s devotion? How is this contrasted to women of today’s society? Why are such relationships so rare? Which of Ruth’s words most likely convinced Naomi to stop urging Ruth to return to her people?
• v1:19-22 What is the irony between verse 21 and verse 22? How often are we blinded by blessings when we focus on misfortune?

• v2:2 What does this verse tell us about Ruth’s character? Where is her focus? Why does she seem so comfortable in such a new circumstance? How can we apply this to our lives?
• v2:3 Ruth “as it turned out…found herself working in a field belonging to Boaz…” What does this verse say about the plan of God and Divine timing? How do we know when we are in His plan? (Psalm 37:3-16, Isaiah 40:31)
• v2:4 When Boaz greets the harvesters, how must his words impact Ruth? What does the communication between Boaz and his harvesters say about his character?
• v2:6-9 Why does Boaz ask Ruth to remain in his field? What parallels can we see between Boaz and a shepherd? Why is such care, as demonstrated by Boaz, so important to a woman’s soul in man/woman relationships/friendships?
• v2: 11-12 How does God use people to act as His “wings of refuge”? Why is this important in the Body of Christ? (1 Cor 12:27-31, 1 Cor 13:1-7)
• v2:13-16 How is Ruth’s humility revealed in verse 13? What a picture of grace Boaz portrays! How can we apply this dynamic to our spiritual walk? What do we need before we can be true receivers of grace? (Luke 6:38)
• v2:17-18 What might we be able to say about Ruth’s motivation in this verse? What happens to our motivation in our spiritual walk when we stray from grace? How does this happen?
• v2:20 Boaz is described as a “family guardian.” The Hebrew word for family guardian is goel, and is a legal term for one who has legal obligation to redeem a relative in serious difficulty. What is the significance of this part of Jewish tradition?
• v2:21-23 Why does Naomi say to Ruth “It will be good for you, my daughter, to go with the women who work for [Boaz]”? What type of fellowship do you suppose these women experienced? What fostered and allowed for such relationships?

• V3:1 What type of home does Naomi want for Ruth? What comes to mind to when you think of “home?” As women, how do we make others feel “at home”? How do we feel “at home” with God? What possible barriers can get between being “at home” with God (Isa 32:18, Pro 24:3-4)?
• V3:2 What is the significance of Ruth meeting Boaz on the threshing floor (Num 18:30, Mat 3:12)?
• V3:3 Why does Naomi instruct Ruth to wash and put on her best clothes? How does God use beauty to invite us (SoS 4:7-9)?
• V3:4 What is the significance of uncovering Boaz’s feet (Psa 8:6, 1Sa 23-24)?
• V3:5-6 What do you think is going on in Ruth’s mind as she is demonstrating such obedience to Naomi’s guidance? Why do you think Ruth appears to be so comfortable following such guidance?
• V3:7-9 Where does Ruth’s boldness come from? What type of example is she in terms of how we should approach our Redeemer?
• V3:10 What about Ruth’s character impresses Boaz? Why is this so important?
• V3:11-12 Ruth’s “noble” character is essential in bringing honor to her family redeemer. How does this mirror God’s design for love between husband and wife, and our eternal marriage with Jesus Christ (Eph 5:21-28)?
• V3:15 -17 How does Boaz illustrate God’s blessing and grace?
• V3:18 Why is Naomi convinced that “the man will not rest until the matter is settled”? What does this verse say about manhood, and how a woman can respond to a man who is being a true man of God?

• V4:11 Why do the elders and the witnesses say “May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your home be like Rachel and Leah” (Gen 30)? Note: Rachel is the mother of Joseph, Israel’s savior. “He stands out as the most perfect type in the Bible of Him who was born of a woman to become the Savior of the world” (Lockyer, 129). Leah became the mother of six sons who were to become the representatives of six of the twelve tribes of Israel (Lockyer, 83).
• V4:14 Why are the woman so happy for Naomi that the Lord has given her a family guardian? Why is the family guardian an important role under Jewish Law?
• V4:15 How does the first part of this verse portray their coming Messiah? What is revealed about Ruth’s character in the second part of this verse? What does this say about the impact a woman can have in His Divine plan?
• V4:16-17 What does the birth of Obed mean to Naomi? Why does Naomi seem to be “in the spotlight” as it relates to the coming of Ruth’s son?
• V4:16-17 (continued): Obed means “a servant who worships”. “As Ruth was the servant who came to worship Jehovah, we can imagine her son’s name as being expressive of her own conversion from idolatry” (Lockyer, 148). What kind of mother do you think God has prepared Ruth to be (Psa 127:3)? What does the Bible say about Motherhood (Pro 31:25-30, Pro 6:20, Isa 66:13, Mat 12:48-50)?
• V4:18-22 What is the significance of Ruth, a Gentile by birth, being a part of the lineage of Christ?

North Christian Church Women’s Bible Study
The Women of the Bible: Esther

Topic
The Book of Esther

Historical Context (From Zondervan NIV Study Bible)

• Author: Unknown
• Audience: The Jewish People
• Setting: City of Susa in the Persian Empire
• Date: Sometime after 460 BC
• Theme: The book of Esther describes how the Jews of Persia are saved from certain destruction through divine providence.
• Reading Outline
• Read entire Book of Esther, chapters 1-10
• Don’t lose sight of the overall purpose of the book, the “big-picture” themes.
• Have fun and see how this book can edify and teach women regarding the unity of the faith.

• v1:1-8 What is the significance of the wealth/power of the Persian Empire? To King Xerxes? To Queen Vashti?
• v1:10-12 How does Queen Vashti dishonor her husband? What is the significance of this? What are common precursors to the downfall of kingdoms?
• v1:16-18 A concern of the King's wiseman is the example Queen Vashti will be to other women. Is this a valid concern? What has history shown us and what do we see today regarding this truth?
• v1:20 Queen Vashti will be replaced by someone who "is better than she.” What is meant by "better"? Where does the Bible continually remind us true beauty lies? Proverbs 31:30, 1 Pe 3:3-6.
• v1:22 Proclaims that every man should be ruler over his own household. What is the importance of this?

• v2:5 Mordecai is introduced. He is a Jew from the Tribe of Benjamin and was exiled to Babylonian captivity. What is the significance of this and his being a part of the “remnant?” (God always preserves a Jewish remnant.) God never needs numbers! Rom 11:1-5.
• v2:7 Hadassah (later named Esther) is introduced and is the cousin of Mordecai. Mordecai raised her because both of her parents had died while she was young. What type of man is Mordecai? What type of influence does a man of his character have on Esther? How can this be applied to our lives?
• v2:9 Esther wins the favor of Hagai, and she receives 7 female attendants. What is the role of these female attendants? How does the theme of servanthood continue to unfold in this book to further His purpose?
• v2:12 What is the importance of 6 months of beauty treatments? What is the significance of oil and myrrh? See Song of Solomon 1:13 and Phi 3:10-11. (Myrrh presented to Christ parallels pivotal points in His life: at His birth in Mat 2:11 and when He hung on the cross in Mark 15:23)
• v2:15 What do we learn about Esther's character?
• v2:19-23 How does Mordecai’s ability to uncover the conspiracy of the King's officers reinforce Divine providence in His plan and the idea of “being in the right place at the right time”?

• v3:2 What does this verse say about Mordecai’s character? Can you think of a time in your life when you, or someone you knew, took the unpopular route based on personal convictions? Did you have the opportunity to see God’s justice play out in this given situation?
• v3:4-9 What seems to enrage Haman the most, the disobedience of Mordecai, or the fact that He was a Jew? What type of stage is being set for Esther? What is she up against?

• v4:4-5 Once Esther is notified of Mordecai’s state of mourning in sackcloth and ashes by eunuchs and female attendants, why is her first response to send clothes? According to Jewish custom, didn’t sackcloth clearly signify mourning? It is not until Mordecai refuses the clothes that Esther orders Hathak to find out what is troubling Mordecai. Is there any significance to this? Can you, as a woman, relate to her response?
• v4:9-11 After hearing Hathak’s report of all that had happened to Mordecai and of the edict for the annihilation of the Jewish people, what is Esther’s response to Mordecai’s request for her to beg the King for mercy? What do you think is going through Esther’s mind as she is telling Hathak her message to Mordecai? Is she in a state of thought leading emotion or emotion leading thought? What are the dangers of the latter?
• What role does her conscience play as she has to make a decision to follow either the Rules of Royalty or obedience to her Uncle and servanthood of her people? (1 Pe 2:13-16 vs. Col 3:22-25)
• v4:13-14 What does this section reveal about Mordecai’s faith? Mordecai addresses Divine timing. Can you think of a time when God brought you to a difficult crossroad where you had the choice to carry out His will for His glory? Have you ever been “called” yet ignored His calling? What life lessons have come from such times? (Proverbs 19:21)
• v4:15-16 After Esther considers Mordecai’s words, she immediately requests that her people fast for her. What is the significance of fasting (Psalm 35:13, Isa 58:6-9)? What does this section reveal about Esther’s faith? What do you think Esther’s motivation is? Ultimately, does it matter? (1 Samuel 16:7)

• v5:1-2 What do you think was going through Esther’s mind as she stood in the inner court of the palace? Did she expect to live?
• v5:4-7 What is the purpose of Esther preparing more than one banquet for the King and Haman? Why did she not submit her petition at the initial banquet?

• Please be prepared to comment on anything in this chapter that stands out to you.

• v7:1-4 Before she makes each request, Esther begins with “If it pleases the King…” What does this reveal about Esther’s character? What is the significance of Esther noting she would not have disturbed the King if this were “merely” a matter of her people being sold into slavery? How far has contemporary society strayed from such character/integrity?
• v7:5-7 What does King Xerxes’ response to Queen Esther’s petitions show us about his relationship with his Queen? What qualities describe their relationship? How is such a relationship fostered (Eph 5:33)? On the flip side, how can such a relationship become embittered?
• v7:8 What is the significance of Esther “reclining?” How do we find rest, even under pressure situations (Psalm 23)?

• v8:1-2 How does Esther receive the gift of Haman’s estate? What does this say about Esther’s motivation? What is the ultimate gift/blessing for Esther (Proverbs 11:20-26)? How does God want us to receive gifts (Num 6:24-26, Phi 4:19, Jam 1:12, Jam 1:17)?
• v8:8 King Xerxes commands that Esther and Mordecai write a decree on behalf of the Jews “as seems best to [them]…” How has Esther, along with Mordecai, earned such trust from King Xerxes (Titus 2:7, 2 Timothy 3:2)? How do we earn trust from others?

• v9:13-18 Esther requests for Haman’s ten sons to be killed. She also requests that a day be set apart for the Jews to be permitted to take vengeance on their enemies who sought to kill them. What about having love and forgiveness towards our enemies? Is this difference in thinking due to living on the other side of The Cross and not understanding its cry for forgiveness, as Dr. Lockyer suggests? Or is this Esther being lockstep with God’s will and getting rid of evil (Psalm 94:23, 1Cor 15:33)?

• v10:3 Why is Mordecai “held in high esteem by his many fellow Jews?” How can we follow his example today in our Christian walk (Rom 14:7-13, Phi 2:3-4)?
• Key Post Reading Summary Points (from Dr. Herbert Lockyer’s All the Women of The Bible)
• Esther, from "aster", means "a star." Esther was a "star of hope" and a "star of joy" to her people.
• She went from exile and poverty to a queen of great wealth.
• God's providence is seen throughout this book, yet His name is not mentioned- as in Song of Solomon.
• Because of her beauty she became an inmate of the palace, because of her courage/faith/honor she would become a "star of hope" to her Jewish people, lightening the load under Persian rule.
• King Xerxes must have been captivated by her beauty, but "through her beauty there shone a radiance of personality and character which enhanced her beauty and gave it distinction in the eyes of [King Xerxes] who chose her to be his queen". (p 53)
• Mordecai and Esther shared faith in the high destiny of Israel as a nation.
• Haman, the chief court favorite, was an enemy of the Jews and wanted all Jews massacred. “The future existence of God’s chosen people and ultimately the appearance of the Redeemer-Messiah are jeopardized by Haman’s edict to destroy the Jews (Zondervan NIV, p 770)
• It is because Esther saved the Jews from destruction that the book of Esther is read every year by Jews at the Feast of Purim held on 14th day of Adar.
• Esther requests Haman's ten sons be killed. She also requests that a day be set apart for the Jews to be permitted to take vengeance on their enemies who sought to kill them. What about having love and forgiveness towards our enemies? Is this difference in thinking due to living on the other side of The Cross, and not understanding its cry for forgiveness, as Dr. Lockyer suggests?

• Esther was one who kept her pledge, dutifully obeying her foster father, Mordecai (Lesson for young people to obey their parents and also to others having obedience to other biblical forms of authority).
• She exhibited patriotism and loyalty to her people.
• Esther utilized great opportunities to glorify God, instead of self-gain and promotion.
• How does her story relate to our ambassadorship and servanthood as women?
• How has God’s providence come through for you when you have been simply obedient to His calling in your life?
• Esther seeks Divine guidance in times of difficulty (4:15-17)
• What are examples of areas where you have had to renounce self and exert self for others? Where lays the joy in such humility?
• Through Esther we can learn the value of seeking cooperation of fellow-believers.
• Dealing with the ultimate safety of the Jews, which Esther secured, we learn to have complete confidence in God's Providence, to not undervalue small things, and how merciful our God is.
• From the story of Haman and his reversal of fortune, we learn of God's righteous retribution. Haman received himself what he had proposed for others, illustrating the transitory nature of earthly possessions and the end of ill -gotten earthly power and possessions. How does this relate to what has come from the pulpit recently? (Proverbs 1)

North Christian Church Women’s Bible Study
The Women in the Bible: Sarah

Topic
Sarah

Reading Outline

• Read Genesis 11-25, paying particular attention to scripture references listed below. Also read the specific scriptures listed in Isaiah, Romans, Hebrews, and 1 Peter.
• Focus on the person of Sarai/Sarah, as well as the “big picture” themes.
• Have fun and see how learning more about Sarah can edify and teach us women regarding the unity of the faith.

• Genesis 11:29-31; 12:5-7; 16:1-8; 17:15-21; 18; 20:2-18; 21:1-12; 23:1-19; 24:36,37; 25:10,12; 49:31, Isaiah 51:2, Romans 4:19; 9:9, Hebrews 11:11, 1 Peter 3:6

• Author: Moses
• Audience: God’s chosen people, the Israelites
• Date: Between 1446 and 1406 BC
• Theme: Genesis is the book of beginnings that introduces central themes of the Bible

• Sarah is from Ur of the Chaldees, possibly in northern Mesopotamia, but more likely in southern Iraq.
• Her former name, Sarai, meaning “princely”, identifies her as coming from an honored family (Lockyer, 156). She was the daughter of Terah and half-sister to Abraham (10 years younger than him, as noted in Gen 17:17).
• Sarah was the first Hebrewess-the joint fountainhead of the Jewish race (Isa 51:2).
• Sarai’s inability to conceive (see Gen 1:2-3; 17:17) “…emphasized the fact that God’s people would not come by natural generation from post-Babel peoples. God was bringing a new humanity into being, of whom Abraham was father (17:5), just as Adam and Noah were fathers of the fallen race” (The NIV Study Bible, Zondervan, p.29).
• The promise of ancestorship of many nations came with the change of her name from Sarai to Sarah, as she became mother to Isaac at age 90.

• V11:29-31 – What is significant about Sarai being childless and unable to conceive? Why do you believe these are some of the first details we learn of Sarai in scripture?

• V12:1-3 - After the death of Terah, God calls Abraham and Sarai to go to an unknown land, Canaan. He asks Abraham to leave his people and his country. He exhibits prompt obedience (Heb 11:8). What must this have been like for Sarai?
• V12:12 - Sarai observes her husband following God’s command to flee from Harran to Canaan, trusting in His Divine providence. She then sees his insecurity play out when he fears his life will be taken by the Egyptians due to her beauty. What do you make of this? How might Abraham’s fear impact Sarai? How easy is it to be influenced by another’s fear or insecurity (1Jo 4:18, Deu 31:6, Psa 27:1; 118:6)?
• V12:11-13 - What do you notice about Abram’s choice of words, “Because of you…I may live on account of you…”? How is Sarai’s beauty a double-edged sword (Pro 6:25, Mat 5:27-28, Pro 31: 10-31)?
• V12:14-16 - If the pharaoh were to have added Sarai to his harem while knowing that she was Abram’s wife, he would have been required to kill Abram first (Zondervan, p.32). How must Sarai be feeling in this moment? What types of pressures must she be experiencing?
• V12:17 – When the Lord struck Pharaoh with plagues, what type of response do you think this elicited from Sarai? What part of God’s character is revealed in this verse (2Co 13:8, Psa 28:7)?
• We read nothing of Sarai’s resistance to her husband’s request in this chapter. While it is not mentioned in the Bible, is it possible that she may have encouraged Abram to have faith in God for protection in this moment?

• V16:2 - Sarai states, “The Lord has kept me from having children”. What is Sarai implying about God and His promise?
• V16:2b - Sarai turns to her own plan and suggests that Abram sleep with Hagar so that she may “build a family through her” (Note: Sleeping with slaves was an ancient custom, illustrated in Old Assyrian marriage contracts to ensure the birth of a male heir [Zondervan, p. 36]). What type of pressure might she have experienced to provide offspring (Gen 12:2-3)? How is Sarai’s action similar to that of Abram’s in Chapter 12?
• V16:2 cont’d - What causes us to try to take things upon ourselves instead of waiting on God’s timing? What can be the results of such actions (Act 1:7, Isa 55:8-9, Psa 37:7)?
• V16:2 cont’d - How does Sarai’s suggestion to Abraham compare to Eve’s suggestion to Adam in the Garden (Gen 3:6)?
• V16:3-4 – How can we compare Sarai’s treatment of Hagar to Abram’s treatment of Sarai? What type of “scar tissue” develops in women who are objectified by others or by themselves? How does the objectification of women in society today satisfy Satan’s desires? How does cumulative scar tissue in this area impact God’s perfect design for women in marriage (pertaining to both earthly marriages of husband and wife, and as brides of Christ) (Eph 5:22-30)?
• V16:5 - After becoming pregnant by Abram, Hagar despises Sarai. Sarai states that Abram is responsible for the wrong she is suffering. What is the “wrong” being suffered (Gen 2:23-24, Eph 5: 25-32)? How are we to overcome the wrongs we suffer (Dan 9:9, Psa 103:12, Luk 23:34)?
• V16:5b - Sarai says to Abram, “Let God be the judge between you and me”. How often do we have this attitude? What happens when we let God be between us and others?

• V17:15 -16 – What must it have been like for Sarah upon hearing her new name? What was the significance of this new name? Imagine if our names were related to His spiritual purpose for our lives, and others called us by these names. How quickly do we forget how God has made each of us for a unique purpose to bring Him glory (Rom 12:6-7)? What happens when we become familiar with those of the Body of Christ (Mar 6:1-4)?

• V18:5-7 - What is the significance of the bread? How do you think Sarah responds to Abraham’s sense of urgency (CP Mat 13:33)?
• V18:10-12 - What possible emotions could Sarah be experiencing in this verse? Why does she laugh “to herself” (CP Gen 21:6)?
• V18:13-14 - God speaks to Abraham about Sarah’s doubt. Is it possible that God is also speaking to Sarah? How does God help us believers overcome our doubts (Rom 1:17, Zec 13:19, 1Pe 1:7, Isa 48:10, Job 23:10, Pro 17:3)? What other scripture comes to mind?
• V18:15 – In this verse, Sarah states that she did not laugh. What are some possible reasons that she did not want her laughter to be revealed in this moment? Why do we try to hide certain emotions from God? How do we forget that He knows exactly how we feel? (As an important reminder, thoughts that are unsubstantiated by the Word of God are conjecture.)

• V20:2 - What are some possible thoughts going through Sarah’s mind in this second mentioned instance of both being presented as Abraham’s sister and being given to another man for marriage?
• V20:8-11 - What is the irony in Abraham’s statement in verse 11?
• V20:13 – Abraham describes how Sarah can show her love towards Him. On what levels is his request wrong? What type of conflict could such a request create in Sarah’s soul? How do the concepts of Godly conscience and obedience pertain to this section (Jer 7:23, 1Sa 15:22)?
• How slow are we to learn from past failures? Why is this? Thanks be to God for His patience (Num 14:18, Exo 34:6, Psa 86:15)!

• 21:1 - The Lord did for Sarah what He had promised (Gen 17:16-19). Who is blessed in this act of God fulfilling His promise?
• 21:1 cont’d- How is God’s grace revealed to Sarah? (2Co 12:8-9, Rom 11:6)
• 21:1 cont’d- What is important to note about the covenant Sarah represents? How can this be compared to that of Hagar? (Cp Gal 4:22-31)
• 21:2- This verse states that Abraham would have a son with Sarah “…in his old age at the very time God had promised him.” What is noteworthy about Sarah being 90 and Abraham being 100 at the time of Isaac’s birth? (Gen 18:14)
• 21:6-7- According to Zondervan’s NIV Study Bible, the laughter in this verse is laughter of joy and faith, whereas the laughter in Genesis 17:17 is laughter of temporary disbelief. Sarah states that “…everyone who hears will laugh with me.” How does Sarah’s experience increase your joy and your faith? How does God bring us through moments of temporary disbelief to moments of joy and laughter?
• 21:7- What does this verse say about God’s omnipotence verses human rationalism? How should we be encouraged? (Rom 9:16, 1Co 6:14, 2Co 13:4, Isa 26:4, Mat 19:26)
• 21:9-10 – Sarah expresses her desire to have Hagar and Ishmael sent away. Why might she have felt threatened about Ishmael sharing in Isaac’s inheritance?
• 21:11-13 – Why does God ask Abraham to listen to what Sarah tells him and not to be distressed? (See Rom 9:6-8)
• 21:11-13 cont’d –God uses Sarah feeling threatened to accomplish His will. How can we apply this to our lives? How does Scripture address slavery verses freedom? (cp Gal 4:28-31)

• 23:1-2 –Sarah dies at 127 years old. According to Dr. Lockyer, she is the only woman whose specific age is stated in Scripture. As this study comes to an end, what have we learned from Sarah? (Heb 11:11, 1Pe 3:1-6, Isa 51:2, Rom 4:19-25)
• 23:19-20 – What is significant about Abraham providing a burial place for Sarah and him in the land of Canaan?

North Christian Church Women’s Bible Study
The Women in the Bible: Mary

Topic
Mary

Reading Outline

• Read Luke 1 and 2 , Matthew 1, 2, and 12:46, John 2:1-11 and 19:25, Acts 1:14
• Focus on the person of Mary, as well as the “big picture” themes.
• Have fun and see how learning more about Mary can edify and teach us women regarding the unity of the faith.

• Matthew 1, 2 and 12:46, Luke 1 and 2, John 2:1-11 and 19:25, Acts 1:14

• Mary was a humble village woman who lived in the small town of Nazareth, “… a place so insignificant as to lead Nathanael to say ‘Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?’ “(Joh 1:46).
• Mary is from the tribe of Judah and the line of David.
• Mary is the wife of Joseph, the son of Heli (Luk 3:23).
• As a virgin, Mary became with child by the Holy Spirit and bore Jesus Christ, becoming the Mother of our Lord and Savior.
• It is unusual for women to be named in genealogies. In Matthew 16 Mary bore the stigma of pregnancy outside of wedlock. As the other women listed in this genealogy, Mary is an example of the workings of divine grace (MacArthur Study Bible).

• Author: Luke, a Gentile physician and missionary companion of Paul.
• Audience: Addressed to Theophilus, but intended for all believers.
• Date: Between the 60s and the 80s AD.
• Theme: Luke presents Jesus as the Messiah and Lord whose life, death, and resurrection make salvation available to all people everywhere.

• V 1:26-28 - Gabriel recognized her spiritual fitness for such an honor when he said “the Lord is with thee” in Luke 1:28 (Lockyer). The NASB version reads “Greetings favored one! The Lord is with you” (Luk 1:28). “Favored one” also means “full of grace” implicating Mary as a recipient of His Grace. What is the significance of being recipients of grace?
• V 1:29 - Why might Mary have been “troubled”?
• V1:30 -33 - What might have been going on in Mary’s mind as she received this news?
• V1:34 – How is Mary asking “How can this be?” different from Zacharias in verse 18?
• V1:35-37 - What is the significance of Gabriel mentioning Mary’s relative, Elizabeth, conceiving a son in her old age?
• V1:38 - How is Mary’s humility revealed? What societal challenges must Mary endure in the midst of this blessing (Cp Deu 22:13-21; Cp Joh 8:3-5)? What can we learn by her example?
• V1:39-40 - Why might Mary have been in a “hurry”? How does God comfort and encourage us with other members of His Body?
• V1:41- What is the significance of Elizabeth’s baby leaping in her womb? How about her being filled by the Holy Spirit?
• V1:42-44 - What can be said about the baby’s response to Mary?
• V1:45 - Elizabeth describes Mary as being blessed because she believed the Lord. What does this reveal about the importance of faith? Where are the greatest blessings in a believer’s life?
• V1:46 - What is significant about Mary addressing God as her Savior?
• V1:48-49 - What can be said about Mary’s humility? What is the relationship between humility and blessing (2Co 8:9)?
• V1:50 - Being from the Tribe of Judah and the Line of David, who are some of the examples of God’s mercy in Mary’s life? What is meant by, “those who fear Him”? How does God use others to edify our faith? What can be said about the breadth and depth of God’s mercy (Cp Psa 51; 103:17-19)?
• V1:51-52 – Mary states what God has done to those who were “proud in the thoughts of their heart”. How does pride impact one’s soul? How does God deal with our pride (Lev 26:19, Dan 5:20, 2Ch 26:16, Psa 10:4, Pro 11:2; 13:10; 16:18; 29:23, Isa 2:11)?
• V1:53 – What is significant about being hungry and empty handed (Cp Psa 107:9)?
• V1:54 – Mary speaks of servanthood and God’s mercy. What blessings come in serving the Perfect Master? Why do so many today choose against His mercy, and instead serve a different master, remaining in bondage? How do most people today view the idea of serving others? What does God say about this (Mar 10:42-25)?
• V1:46-55 -How is Mary’s Magnificat similar to Hannah’s prayer (Cp 1Sa 1:11; 2:1-10)?

• V2:1-5 – What must this trip, Nazareth to Bethlehem, have been like for Mary so close to the birth of her first born child? What distance did she and Joseph have to travel? Why do they go to Bethlehem (Mic 5:2)?
• V2:6 – What is significant about baby Jesus being her first born?
• V2:9-12 – Compare the Angel of The Lord appearing here to His appearing in Luke 1:28-37. What do you notice?
• V2:11 – Why do you think The Angel of The Lord uses the particular sequence of titles for The Lord Jesus Christ: “Savior,” “Messiah,” then “The Lord”? Reflect on what has been coming from the pulpit regarding The Gospel. Why do so many American Christians seem to forget about a daily need for repentance? Why do some live a life that may address a Savior but not a Lord?
• V2:16 – What is interesting about shepherds being the first to visit Mary, Joseph, and Jesus? What do we know about the role of a shepherd from The Word of God (Luk 2:8, Mat 9:36, Cp Psa 23)?
• V2:19 – What are the things Mary “treasures” (Cp Mat 6:19-24)?
• V2:20 – What can be said about the shepherds’ trust in The Lord prior to seeing Him? What is significant about their praising of both what they heard and saw (Joh 20:29)?
• V2:22-24 – How is Mary’s humility and obedience revealed in these verses (Cp Exo 13:2,12, Lev 12:8)? What are some examples of fruits of obedience and humility in a believer’s life?
• V2:25-33- What is behind Mary and Joseph’s “marveling?” Where does their focus continue to be? How does God reveal His plan to us as we are sanctified daily (Isa 26:3, Heb 12:2)?
• V2:36-38 – What is revealed about the prophet, Anna? Why might God have chosen her as the one to address Joseph, Mary, and Jesus in the temple?
• V2:48 - Why might Mary and Joseph have been “astonished?” What do Mary’s words reveal about what she may have been feeling in the given moment?
• V2:51 – This is the second time in Luke where we read of Mary treasuring “…all these things in her heart.” What treasures are being referenced (Cp Luk 2:19)?

• In these verses, we read that Mary seeks to speak with Jesus. How is her seeking in this verse different from her “looking” in Luke 2:48-49?
• How does Mary fit both the crowd’s and Jesus’s descriptions of “mother”?
• What is the significance of spiritual relationships compared to earthly relationships (Joh 17: 20-25, Rom 12:4-5, 1Co 1:10, 1Co 12:12-31, Eph 1:20-23, Eph 4:16, vs. Mat 10:34-39)? Why do we sometimes prioritize earthly relationships?
• How are we, as women, called to be “spiritual mothers”? How do you maintain spiritual objectivity in spite of earthly and/or blood ties?
  

• V2:3-5 – How is Mary adjusted by Jesus? How often do we need similar adjustments?
• V19:25-27 – What is the significance of Jesus telling Mary, “Woman, here is your son” and, “Here is your mother,” to the disciple? How is this an example of God’s design for the Body of Christ? (Joh 15:12-13, Gal 6:2, Phi 2:4)
  

• In this verse, Paul points out that Mary is with the apostles as they join together constantly for prayer. Based on what we know about Mary, how must her participation in prayer with the apostles have encouraged them in their faith? How is this also an act of obedience? (1Ch 16:11, Psa 145:18, Rom 12:12,1Th 5:16-18)