Volume 2: Prophets and Kings
Filmed on location in Israel, Faith Lessons is a unique video series that brings God's Word to life with astounding relevance. By weaving together the Bible's fascinating historical, cultural, religious, and geographical contexts, teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan reveals keen insights into the Scriptures' significance for modern believers. These illuminating "faith lessons" afford a new understanding of the Bible that will ground your convictions and transform your life. The Faith Lessons video series is ideal for use at home, especially in personal and family Bible studies. Individual believers and families will gain vital insights from long-ago times and cultures through this innovative approach to Bible study.
01. Innocent Blood Part 1
Lesson 2.1 | Innocent Blood Part 1
Being in the Culture and Not of It
The lesson uses the city of Megiddo, a place with a turbulent history, to illustrate the dangers of pagan practices and the need for believers to be distinct from the surrounding culture. The lesson highlights the horrific practices of Baal worship, including child sacrifice, to emphasize the stark contrast between worshiping false gods and following the true God. These practices, which involved shedding innocent blood, perverted God's gifts of life and sexuality.
02. Innocent Blood Part 2
Lesson 2.2 | Innocent Blood Part 2
Being in the Culture and Not of It
The lesson uses the city of Megiddo, a place with a turbulent history, to illustrate the dangers of pagan practices and the need for believers to be distinct from the surrounding culture. The lesson highlights the horrific practices of Baal worship, including child sacrifice, to emphasize the stark contrast between worshiping false gods and following the true God. These practices, which involved shedding innocent blood, perverted God's gifts of life and sexuality.
03. Who Is God?
Lesson 2.3 | Who Is God?
Being in the Culture and Not of It
The lesson is filmed at Mount Carmel, where the prophet Elijah famously confronted the prophets of Baal and challenged the Israelites to choose between following God and serving the false god, Baal. The lesson draws a parallel between the ancient conflict between God and Baal worship and the "false gods" that compete for people's loyalty in contemporary society. These can include things like materialism, entertainment, and seeking happiness in worldly possessions.
04. The Wages of Sin
Lesson 2.4 | The Wages of Sin
Being in the Culture and Not of It
This lesson explores the consequences of sin and the importance of unwavering faith in God, even when surrounded by a culture that has abandoned God's values. Filmed at the ancient city of Lachish, a stark example of God's judgment on those who rebel against Him, this lesson illustrates that ignoring God's values has serious consequences.
05. The Lord Is My Shepherd
Lesson 2.5 | The Lord Is My Shepherd
Being in the Culture and Not of It
focuses on the concept of God as a shepherd and the importance of trusting in Him, even when facing life's challenges. Filmed in the Negev region, this lesson explores the idea of God as a guiding and protecting presence, leading His people to security and fulfillment.
06. God with Us
Lesson 2.6 | God with Us
Being in the Culture and Not of It
"God With Us" is the sixth and final lesson in the "Prophets & Kings" volume. It explores the significance of God's presence with His people, drawing parallels between ancient Israel's experience and the reality of God's indwelling presence in believers today.