Discussion hints: ELTBefore Shin ש

Discussion hints: ELTBefore Shin ש [∞]

Discussion Questions and Answers

1. What is the significance of the letter ש (Shin) in relation to God’s word?
   • The ש (Shin) is composed of a ו (Vav) descending on the right and two ז (Zayin) returning on the left, symbolizing the idea that God's word does not return void but brings an increase. This reflects the power of God's spoken word, which accomplishes His purposes and produces fruit.
2. How does Isaiah 55:10-11 illustrate the idea that God’s word does not return void?
   • Isaiah 55:10-11 compares God's word to rain and snow that nourish the earth, making it flourish. Just as rain fulfills its purpose in nature, God's word fulfills His divine intentions and brings forth growth and transformation.
3. What connection does Matthew 13:23 make between receiving the word and bearing fruit?
   • Matthew 13:23, in the parable of the sower, illustrates that when the word is received in a good and understanding heart, it produces an abundant harvest. This highlights the principle that God’s word multiplies when accepted and nurtured.
4. How does John 15:7-8 further support the idea of increase through God’s word?
   • John 15:7-8 states that if believers remain in Christ and His words remain in them, they will bear much fruit. This emphasizes that abiding in God’s word leads to spiritual productivity and transformation.
5. What role does faith play in the process of God's word bringing increase, according to Romans 10:17?
   • Romans 10:17 states that faith comes by hearing the word of Christ. This demonstrates that God’s word initiates and strengthens faith, which in turn leads to spiritual growth and the fulfillment of God’s purposes.
6. What is the relationship between Christ as the Word and His bride, the Church?
   • Christ, as the Word of God, fulfills His redemptive plan by uniting with His bride, the Church. This union is depicted in scriptures like Revelation 19:7-9 and Ephesians 5:25-27, where Christ sanctifies and prepares His bride for eternal communion with Him.
7. How does the imagery of a wedding in Revelation 21:2 and Matthew 25:1-10 reinforce the concept of Christ and the Church?
   • The wedding imagery represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where Christ is the bridegroom and the Church is the prepared bride. The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25 stresses the need for readiness, while Revelation 21:2 presents the Church as the New Jerusalem, beautifully adorned for Christ.
8. What is the significance of 2 Corinthians 11:2 in describing the relationship between Christ and the Church?
   • Paul describes his desire to present believers as a pure bride to Christ, reinforcing the idea that the Church is to be faithful and prepared for union with Christ, the bridegroom.