PWC Podcast - God’s Promises:

1. What is the fundamental difference between human promises and God's promises according to the source? Human promises are described as fragile and often broken. In contrast, God's promises are presented as unshakable and never broken, highlighting their inherent reliability and permanence.
2. Give two examples of "Universal Promises" mentioned in the source. Two examples of universal promises are the rainbow, signifying God will never again destroy the earth with a flood, and the daily occurrences of sunrise and changing seasons, which testify to His faithfulness to all people.
3. How does the source differentiate between obedience driven by fear and obedience driven by relationship? Obedience driven by fear is likened to a child obeying solely to avoid punishment. Obedience driven by relationship, however, stems from love and trust, reflecting a deeper connection with God rather than a legalistic approach.
4. According to the New Testament declaration mentioned, where do "all the promises of God find their Yes"? According to the New Testament, "All the promises of God find their Yes in Him," referring to Jesus Christ. This means that every promise God has ever made is fulfilled and guaranteed through Him.
5. List three reasons why people sometimes feel disappointed that God hasn't kept His promises. People sometimes feel disappointed due to timing, expecting immediate fulfillment; perspective, focusing on earthly instead of eternal outcomes; and unexpected ways, as God's answers often differ from human expectations.
6. Explain the role of faith in receiving God's promises, as described in Segment 5. Faith is crucial for receiving God's promises, not just as a belief on paper but as a lived reality. This means acting on those beliefs, such as living generously if one believes in God's provision, or resting in trials if one believes in His peace.
7. What does the source suggest a person should do if they believe in God's provision, according to the "Receiving the Promises" segment? If a person believes in God's provision, the source suggests they can live generously instead of fearfully. This demonstrates active trust in God's ability to supply their needs rather than being driven by anxiety over resources.
8. What is the "bottom line" message about God's promises in the closing statement? The bottom line is that God's promises are never broken. While some are for everyone, the deepest and most profound promises are specifically for those who belong to Christ, emphasizing a distinction in their reception.
9. What challenge is presented regarding how we recognize God's faithfulness in the ordinary? The challenge asks whether individuals recognize God's faithfulness in the ordinary things around them. It suggests that gratitude often begins by noticing the simple, daily ways God keeps His word, encouraging a mindful appreciation.
10. How does the source connect belonging to Christ with inheriting God's promises? The source states that if one belongs to Christ, they are an "heir of those promises." This implies that union with Christ grants access to and guaranteed fulfillment of all God's promises, including forgiveness, peace, and eternal life.

Essay Format Questions (No Answers Supplied)

1. Analyze the distinction between "Universal Promises" and "Conditional Promises" as presented in the source. Discuss the implications of each type for an individual's relationship with God and their daily life.
2. The source emphasizes that "All the promises of God find their Yes in Him [Jesus]." Explore what this statement means for the Christian believer. How does this understanding impact the way promises related to forgiveness, peace, and eternal life are perceived and experienced?
3. Discuss the three reasons provided for why people sometimes feel disappointed with God's promises (Timing, Perspective, Unexpected Ways). How can understanding these reasons help individuals navigate periods of perceived unfulfillment or frustration in their faith?
4. The study guide suggests that "Receiving God’s promises is by faith, lived out in obedience, and given by grace." Elaborate on the interconnectedness of these three elements. How does each contribute to the full experience and appropriation of God's promises?
5. Reflect on the recurring "Challenge" questions throughout the source. Choose three challenges and explain how addressing them personally could transform a believer's understanding and application of God's promises in their daily life.

Glossary of Key Terms

• Human Promises: Commitments or assurances made by people, characterized in the source as fragile and often broken.
• God's Promises: Divine commitments or assurances, described as unshakable, reliable, and never broken.
• Universal Promises: God's promises that apply to everyone, regardless of their belief or acknowledgment of Him (e.g., the rainbow, sunrise, seasons).
• Conditional Promises: God's promises that are tied to faith and obedience, requiring a response from the recipient (e.g., blessings for obedience to Israel, answered prayers for those who remain in Christ).
• Obedience (Relationship-based): Following God's commands out of love, trust, and a desire for connection, rather than out of fear or obligation.
• Promises in Christ: The New Testament declaration that all of God's promises are fulfilled and guaranteed in Jesus Christ, making believers heirs of these promises.
• Timing: One reason for perceived disappointment, referring to the fact that some of God's promises may take a significant amount of time to be fulfilled (e.g., Abraham waiting for Isaac).
• Perspective: One reason for perceived disappointment, referring to the tendency to look for the fulfillment of promises on earth when many are eternal and may fully manifest in heaven.
• Unexpected Ways: One reason for perceived disappointment, referring to God's tendency to fulfill His promises in ways that differ from human expectations or logic (e.g., a suffering servant instead of a conquering king).
• Receiving the Promises: The process by which God's promises are appropriated, involving faith (believing and living as if they are true), obedience (acting on that faith), and grace (the divine favor through which they are given).
• Heir of Promises: A status granted to those who belong to Christ, signifying their rightful inheritance and guaranteed access to all of God's promises.