December 2024
The LCMS Northern Illinois District has released a new Bible study entitled “Fully Human: A Biblical Pursuit of Virtue.”
This is the 5th District-wide study offered over the last five years. The study introduction states, “In ‘Fully Human: A Biblical Pursuit of Virtue,’ we begin to take a look at four key virtues from the perspective of Scripture. We’ll look at how these virtues were seen in the lives of those in the times of Scripture who knew God’s grace, as well as how they are seen in the life of Christ Himself. We’ll also examine how these virtues are reflected in our own walk with our Savior.”
Through this study, Reverend Kris Whitby, Assistant to the President – Mission & Ministry, hopes to guide participants in contemplating through God’s Word what it is our Lord intended us to be as creatures who reflect His image in the world. He shared, “Selfishness, the pursuit of vice, and every aspect of sin, leave us less than the humans our Lord intended. Jesus not only reveals what God intended the crown of His creation to be, He also redeemed us as His creatures in His life, death, and resurrection. While the Fully Human study is an opportunity to grow in our sanctified understanding of what it means to be Christlike in our pursuit of virtues, I pray it also brings us more deeply into the gift of Jesus’ grace who redeems us for our unvirtuous lives.”
The complete study is available at the link below. Consider using it at home for individual devotional time, as part of a small group Bible study, or as a pastor-led study on Sunday mornings. May your use of this study and continued time in God’s Word be opportunities for learning and reflection on what it means to be “Fully Human.”
Fully Human Study (Intro & Sessions I-V)
WORD: Helping congregations be more centered on a rich life of Word and Sacrament, with congregational support in transitions, as well as time of joys and sorrows.