Scripture: Ecclesiastes 2:1–26 Biblical Idea: The Preacher found that only a return to the basic duty to please God could rescue from the edge of despair. Timeless Truth: The friction of Spiritual living in a futile world accomplishes the Spirit’s aim (Romans 8:20). NOTE: “Spiritual” is capitalized on purpose. Today’s Message: Pump hope against the futility for a friction that generates spiritual profit in 2020.

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 1:12–18 Biblical Idea: The Preacher personally investigated life’s great enigmas by means of his wisdom, which proved unreliable for resolution and closure. Timeless Truth: God has always wanted to shepherd human wisdom. Today’s Message: Fear the Lord to redeem wisdom.

Scripture: 2 Kings 17 Bible Idea: After 200 years of rebellion against prophetic warning, the northern kingdom of Israel fell to Assyria and went into exile. Timeless Truth: Sin always leads to exilic experiences, but God can transform us in exilic experiences for his overall plan and glory. Today’s Message: Submit to God for a sanctifying sojourn.

Bible Idea: Early Christian preaching to believers facing dangerous adversity encouraged present faith by tying it to future realities. Timeless Truth: Faith bridges the present and the future for living trust in God’s promise. Today’s Message: Anticipate the certainty of the future today.

Bible Idea: Paul’s farewell aimed to strengthen his fellowship with the Roman believers in three ways. Timeless Truth: A mercy-transformed, truth-pursuing team working in God’s strength is a Satan-crushing force in the world. Today’s Message: Contribute to the Evil-Crushing Mission of the Eternal God.

Bible Idea: Paul was called and equipped by God to go and prepare an offering of people for God among the people groups who had not yet heard the news of Christ. Timeless Truth: Getting the news of God’s mercy in Christ to unreached people is the mission. Today’s Message: Offer God people.

Bible Idea: Paul warned the “strength” of the strong to be receptive to the “weak” regarding convictions and liberties about food, wine, and special days so that no one may fall into spiritual ruin. Timeless Truth: Abiding in God’s mercies in Christ cultivates an obedient receptivity toward one another. Today’s Message: Work on the technique of your liberty in Christ.