MUSICAL INTERLUDE: Joy to the World

THIS WEEK: Study Romans, Chapter 14

This week (December 30 thru January 4), please study Romans, chapter 14

If you want to read the chapter online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

Click here to download an MP3 of the chapter.

If you'd like to read a commentary on the chapter, click here. (Free website, ChristNotes.Org)

If you want to download the puzzle for this week, click here.

Study Tip: We are now approaching the halfway point in the Quizzing Year. Are you suddenly realizing how far behind you are in the study process? Fear not! Most quiz meets tend to have more questions from the last few chapters studied, than from anywhere else. If you have not been studying to your best up until now, start fresh this week and you'll quickly see an expert in the later chapters of Romans has a lot to offer to the team at Midwinter and beyond!

Upcoming Events:
- Friday, January 10, Christmas Party in Monroe, CT
- January 25, Midwinter Quiz Meet in Sparta, NJ

REMINDER: No Practice Today

Don't forget, there is no practice today.  If you are at church for Sunday School, please attend Pastor Greg's class.

PHOTOS: Pictures from Trumbull's Homecoming!

Every year, Trumbull invites back all former quizzers (including Coach Matt and Mark) to come back and quiz with the current team at "Homecoming".  Click on the image below for the whole set!

WEEKLY COMIC: This is why we say WISE men!

Online Gutenberg Bible

The Gutenberg Bible was one of the first books every produced by the moveable type printing press, and is widely considered a great work of art.  Now, scans from a Gutenberg Bible are available online for free!  Click on thru and enjoy a little bit of Biblical history during Christmas week!

Merry Christmas from the Coaches!

Happy birthday, Jesus!  Thank you for coming to bring us all joy and grace!
(Sorry for the "Happy Holidays" at the end of the video.  It was the only option offered.)

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: White As Snow

THIS WEEK: Review Romans, Chapters 11-13

This week (December 23 thru December 29), please review Romans, chapters 11-13

If you want to read the chapter online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

For resources on past chapters, click below:

• Romans 11
• Romans 12
• Romans 13

Study Tip:  Wednesday is Christmas and the Wednesday after that is New Years.  It may be tempting to lose yourself in holiday cheer and forget all about Bible Quizzing.  DON'T DO IT!  Christmas is the time we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the very man Paul is spending all of Romans talking about.  Set aside some time each day over the next two weeks to review Romans, and you'll find your Christmas season substantially enhanced.

Upcoming Events:
- Friday, January 10, Christmas Party in Monroe, CT
- January 25, Midwinter Quiz Meet in Sparta, NJ

CHAPTER REVIEW: Romans 13

If you'll miss practice this week we don't want you to miss out on the review of the chapter.  You can download Coach Mark's lesson by clicking here, or on the image below.

REFERENCE QUESTIONS: Romans 13

Remember, the full list of Reference Questions can always be found in the sidebar or at this link.

QUESTION:  According to Romans 13:1, let every person be what? 
ANSWER:  Subject to the governing authorities. (cf Jam 1:19)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 13:1, there is no what?
ANSWER:  Authority except from God. (cf Rom 3:18, 22; 4:15; 10:12; 13:1; Jam 1:17)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 13:9, you shall not what?
ANSWER:  Commit adultery, murder, steal, covet. (cf Rom 7:7)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 13:11, you know what?
ANSWER:  The time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. (cf Rom 13:11; Jam 1:3; 3:1)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 13:12, what is at hand? 
ANSWER:  The day. (cf Jam 5:8)

WEEKLY COMIC: A "Wise" Observation

FINISH THE VERSE: Romans 13

Remember, the full list of FTV's can always be found at this link. The // in the verse marks the minimum number of words you need from the FTV to uniquely identify it.

QUESTION: Let every // person be subject... 
ANSWER:  ...to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. (Romans 13:1)

QUESTION: Owe no // one anything...
ANSWER:  ...except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. (Romans 13:8)

QUESTION: Love // does no wrong... 
ANSWER:  ...to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. (Romans 13:10)

QUESTION: But put // on the Lord Jesus Christ...
ANSWER:  ...and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. (Romans 13:14)

Gift Game Help

It's still a few weeks away (January 10), but the Quiz Team Christmas Party is coming!  Every year some people have NO problem thinking of ideas for presents for the gift game at the Quiz Team Christmas party. ...And every year some people are ABSOLUTELY stumped. If you need some ideas, here are a few popular ideas from past years.

• Nerf toys (guns, balls, etc.)
• Tool sets
• Bible-themed toys
• Christian CDs
• Candy
• Gift Cards

Special before-Christmas and after-Christmas sales are a good time to pick up presents for cheap.  Keep an eye out! Your gift may be the one most-traded this year.

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: What a Glorious Night

THIS WEEK: Study Romans, Chapter 13

This week (December 16 thru December 23), please read Romans, chapter 13

If you want to read the chapter online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

Click here to download an MP3 of the chapter.

If you'd like to read a commentary on the chapter, click here. (Free website, BibleGateway.Com)

If you want to download the puzzle for this week, click here.

Study Tip: Christmas is now bearing down upon us, and if you're like me, you are a little bit overwhelmed with everything that has to get done.  How can you fit your studying for Bible Quiz Team into the schedule?  They key is to set clear and simple goals.  Consider creating a to-do list for each day of tasks that must be done before bedtime, and checking them off as you go.  AND make sure "study Bible Quiz Team material" is on that list!  Having a list can help focus you, and keep you from accidentally drifting off into unproductive activities.

Upcoming Events:
- Friday, January 10, Christmas Party in Monroe, CT
- January 25, Midwinter Quiz Meet in Sparta, NJ

CHAPTER REVIEW: Romans 12

Today's practice has been cancelled by snow, but we don't want you to miss out on the review of the chapter.  You can download Coach Mark's lesson by clicking here, or on the image below.

REFERENCE QUESTIONS: Romans 12

Remember, the full list of Reference Questions can always be found in the sidebar or at this link.

QUESTION:  According to Romans 12:1, I appeal to you how? 
ANSWER:  By the mercies of God. (cf Rom 15:30)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 12:2, do not be what?
ANSWER:  Conformed to this world. (cf Rom 11:18; 12: 2, 11, 16, 21; Jam 1:16)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 12:11, do not be what?
ANSWER:  Slothful in zeal. (cf Rom 11:18; 12: 2, 11, 16, 21; Jam 1:16)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 12:16, do not be what?
ANSWER:  Haughty. (cf Rom 11:18; 12: 2, 11, 16, 21; Jam 1:16)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 12:16, live how?
ANSWER:  In harmony with one another. (cf Rom 12:16, 18)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 12:18, live how?
ANSWER:  Peacably with all (if possible, so far as it depends on you). (cf Rom 12:16, 18)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 12:19, what is written?
ANSWER:  “Vengeance is mine, I will repay,” (says the Lord). (cf Rom 1:17; 2:24; 3:4, 10; 4:17; 8:36; 9:13, 33; 10:15; 11:8, 26; 12:19; 14:11; 15:3, 9, 21)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 12:21, do not be what?
ANSWER:  Overcome by evil. (cf Rom 11:18; 12: 2, 11, 16, 21; Jam 1:16)

WEEKLY COMIC: Good Question!

FINISH THE VERSE: Romans 12

Remember, the full list of FTV's can always be found at this link. The // in the verse marks the minimum number of words you need from the FTV to uniquely identify it.

QUESTION: I appeal to you, therefore //...
ANSWER:  ...brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. (Romans 12:1)

QUESTION: Do not be conformed // to this world...
ANSWER:  ...but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

QUESTION: For by the // grace given to me...
ANSWER:  ...I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. (Romans 12:3)

QUESTION: For as // in one body...
ANSWER:  ...we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. (Romans 12:4-5)

QUESTION: Let love // be genuine...
ANSWER:  ...Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. (Romans 12:9-10)

QUESTION: Repay // no one evil for evil...
ANSWER:  ...but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (Romans 12:17-18)

QUESTION: Beloved, // never avenger yourselves
ANSWER:  ...but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” (Romans 12:19-20)


QUESTION: Do not be overcome // by evil...
ANSWER:  ...but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:21)

PHOTOS: Pictures from the Quiz Meet

It's been a few weeks, but the paparazzi pictures from the Quiz Meet in Monroe, CT are up and ready for your enjoyment.  Click on the images below to see each whole set.

Coach Mark's Photos:


Coach Matt's Photos:

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: All You've Ever Wanted

THIS WEEK: Study Romans, Chapter 12

This week (December 9 thru December 15), please read Romans, chapter 12

If you want to read the chapter online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

Click here to download an MP3 of the chapter.

If you'd like to read a commentary on the chapter, click here. (Free website, BibleGateway.Com)

If you want to download the puzzle for this week, click here.

Study Tip: Are you taking full advantage of the tools available to you for studying?  While we provide commentaries, MP3s, puzzles, lists of reference and FTV questions, scripture portions and keywords, many quizzers wind up just doing the same old thing and just read the chapters for their studying.  There is nothing wrong with that, but it can become old hat after a while and you can lose the excitement that comes with new discoveries.  Consider really digging into ALL of the tools at your disposal to reignite your excitement for Bible Quizzing!

Upcoming Events:
- Friday, January 10, Christmas Party in Monroe, CT
- January 25, Midwinter Quiz Meet in Sparta, NJ

CHAPTER REVIEW: Romans 11

If you'll miss practice this week we don't want you to miss out on the review of the chapter.  You can download Coach Mark's lesson by clicking here, or on the image below.

WEEKLY COMIC: Be Careful with Scripture

REFERENCE QUESTIONS: Romans 11

Remember, the full list of Reference Questions can always be found in the sidebar or at this link.

QUESTION:  According to Romans 11:1, I ask what?
ANSWER:  Has God rejected his people? (cf Rom 10:18, 19; 11:1, 11)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 11:2, do you not know what?
ANSWER:  What the Scripture says of Elijah, how he appeals to God against Israel. (cf Rom 6:3, 16; 7:1; 11:2; Jam 4:4)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 11:8, what is written?
ANSWER:  “God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that would not see and ears that would not hear, down to this very day.” (cf Rom 1:17; 2:24; 3:4, 10; 4:17; 8:36; 9:13, 33; 10:15; 11:8, 26; 12:19; 14:11; 15:3, 9, 21)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 11:11, I ask what?
ANSWER:  Did they stumble in order that they might fall? (cf Rom 10:18, 19; 11:1, 11)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 11:13, I am speaking to whom? 
ANSWER:  You Gentiles. (cf Rom 7:1; 11:13)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 11:18, do not be what?
ANSWER:  Arrogant toward the branches. (cf Rom 11:18; 12: 2, 11, 16, 21; Jam 1:16)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 11:26, what is written?
ANSWER:  “The Deliverer will come from Zion; he will banish ungodliness from Jacob.” (cf *Rom 1:17; 2:24; 3:4, 10; 4:17; 8:36; 9:13, 33; 10:15; 11:8, 26; 12:19; 14:11; 15:3, 9, 21)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 11:26, who will be saved? 
ANSWER:  All Israel. (cf *Rom 9:27; 10:9, 13; 11:26)

FINISH THE VERSE: Romans 11

Remember, the full list of FTV's can always be found at this link. The // in the verse marks the minimum number of words you need from the FTV to uniquely identify it.

QUESTION: Note // then the kindness... 
ANSWER:  ...and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off. (Romans 11:22)

QUESTION: Oh, the // depth of the riches... 
ANSWER:  ...and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! (Romans 11:33)


QUESTION: For who has // known the mind...
ANSWER:  ...of the Lord or who has been his counselor? Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid? (Romans 11:34-35)

VOCABULARY: Romans 11

Paul had a large vocabulary, so sometimes he uses words with which you may be unfamiliar.  This weekly series attempts to help by highlighting potentially unfamiliar terminology.  If there are additional words you need help with, please e-mail the coaches.

Romans 11 Vocabulary:

Foreknew:  Had prior awareness of; Prophetic understanding

Demolished:  Destroyed

Altars:  Structure upon which offerings are placed for sacrifice

Baal:  False god worshipped by the Babylonian people

Stupor:  Near-unconsciousness

Snare:  A rope-based trap for animals

Grafted In:  Gardening technique whereby a branch of one kind of plant is attached to the trunk of another plant

Banish:  To exile or cast out

Inscrutable:  Impossible to discover or figure out

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: Love Alone Is Worth the Fight

THIS WEEK: Study Romans, Chapter 11

This week (December 2 thru December 8), please read Romans, chapter 11

If you want to read the chapter online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

Click here to download an MP3 of the chapter.

If you'd like to read a commentary on the chapter, click here. (Free website, BibleGateway.Com)

If you want to download the puzzle for this week, click here.

Study Tip: For some people, the best way to make the Bible a priority in your life is to put it at the start of every day. Rather than waiting for after homework, dinner, or whatever else you normally put before studying, consider setting your alarm 15 minutes earlier in the morning and spending that time reading thru that week's chapter. This can set the tone for your day, and give you a chance to apply the lessons of the chapter in your daily life

Upcoming Events:
- Friday, January 10, Christmas Party in Monroe, CT
- January 25, Midwinter Quiz Meet in Sparta, NJ

REMINDER: No Practice Today

There is no Bible Quiz Team practice today. Please meet with Pastor Greg's class if you'll be around for Sunday School.  We'll see you next week!

BIBLE NEWS: Airdropping Bibles into North Korea

For most of the world, this is a great time to read the Bible.  It is available free on the internet at sites like BibleGateway.Com and it is available free through countless Missions organizations.  But there are still places on Earth where getting your hands on a Bible is a life and death situation.  Christians are seeking to sneak more Bibles into North Korea, one of the most tightly controlled Communist dictatorships left on the planet.

The balloons, made from a large sheet of "farm plastic," said Foley, are filled with hydrogen before the Bibles and "tracts" - testimonials written by other North Korean Christians - are attached at the bottom inside a sack or box. Timers are then used to release the materials in stages, dispersing them at high altitudes across North Korea.
Foley and members of his Christian mission group, Seoul USA, use GPS technology to help direct where the Bibles land. Around 50,000 of them have dropped from the skies in the last year.

WEEKLY COMIC: Spare Me!

Happy Thanksgiving!

BIBLE NEWS: Bible More Accessible Than Anytime in History

It was not so long ago that you were a very lucky person if you had access to a Bible.  For centuries, they were held almost exclusively by priests and monks.  Then for centuries more, they were mostly held by the rich.  By the time our parents and grandparents came along, Bibles were everywhere in the Western world, but still forbidden across most of the east.  But now, experts are saying the Bible is accessible to nearly anyone, more-so than any time in history.  And it may be fulfillment of prophecy!

Creson states that "the last translator for the last Bible translation is alive somewhere in the world today." He told CP why he believes that. "Thirty years ago, the average New Testament took over 20 years to translate," Creson explained. Today, it takes about 8 years.
The Wycliffe president also testified his belief that organization's work helps bring about the End Times. "I believe that the work we do hastens the return of Jesus Christ," Creson told CP. Citing Matthew 24:14, he paraphrased Jesus' words saying "this good news message has to be preached to the whole world, to every tongue, tribe, and nation, and then the end will come."

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: When the Waters Rise

THIS WEEK: Review Romans, Chapters 6-10

This week (November 25 thru December 1), please review Romans, chapters 6-10.

If you want to read the chapters online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

For resources on past chapters, click below:

• Romans 6
• Romans 7
• Romans 8
• Romans 9
• Romans 10

Study Tip: This next week will be a tough one for studying.  Thursday is Thanksgiving (and families will spend Monday thru Wednesday preparing), then Black Friday and Cyber-Saturday.  How can you possibly find a minute to review for Bible Quizzing?  Here's a tip - we have time when we MAKE time.  This next week (and the whole December when you'll be surrounded by Christmas craziness) set aside 30 minutes each day for review.  It can be first thing, last thing, lunchtime, break time - whatever - but do it the same way, every day.  And if you miss a day, don't sweat it.  Just pick it up again the next day.

Upcoming Events:
- January 10:  Quiz Team Christmas Party in Monroe, CT
- January 25:  Midwinter Quiz Meet in Sparta, NJ

CHAPTER REVIEW: Romans 10

We're missing practice this week for our "Special Missionary Presentation", but we don't want you to miss out on the review of the chapter.  You can download Coach Mark's lesson by clicking here, or on the image below.

Monroe Quiz Meet is TODAY!

See you there!  Be there at 9:00 AM to help set up.

REMINDER: Monroe Bible Quiz Meet is TOMORROW!

The Quiz Meet in Monroe, CT is tomorrow!  Now's the time to cram and get ready to show the other teams what we're made of.  Come on out and invite your friends and family to come and cheer us on, as well.  Remember, we're hosting so let's work hard to show the other teams a good time!

MEET AT THE CHURCH TO SETUP:  9:00 AM
QUIZ MEET BEGINS:  9:30 AM
COST:  $5.00 for lunch (or bring your own)
CHAPTERS COVERED:  Romans 1-10
CLEAN-UP AT THE CHURCH:  ~1:00 PM
HEAD HOME:  ~1:30 PM

REFERENCE QUESTIONS: Romans 10

Remember, the full list of Reference Questions can always be found in the sidebar or at this link.

QUESTION:  According to Romans 10:9, who will be saved?
ANSWER:  You, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead. (cf Rom 9:27; 10:9, 13; 11:26)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 10:11, Scripture says what? 
ANSWER:  “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” (cf Rom 9:17; 10:11; 11:3; Jam 4:5, 6)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 10:12, there is no what?
ANSWER:  Distinction between Jew and Greek. (cf Rom 3:18, 22; 4:15; 10:12; 13:1; Jam 1:17)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 10:13, who will be saved?
ANSWER:  Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord. (cf Rom 9:27; 10:9, 13; 11:26)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 10:15, what is written?
ANSWER:  “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” (cf Rom 1:17; 2:24; 3:4, 10; 4:17; 8:36; 9:13, 33; 10:15; 11:8, 26; 12:19; 14:11; 15:3, 9, 21)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 10:16, Isaiah says what?
ANSWER:  “Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?” (cf Rom 9:27, 29; 10:16, 20; 15:12)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 10:18, I ask what?
ANSWER:  Have they not heard? (cf Rom 10:18, 19; 11:1, 11)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 10:19, I ask what?
ANSWER:  Did Israel not understand? (cf Rom 10:18, 19; 11:1, 11)

Happy Birthday, Coach Matt!

Today is Coach Matt's birthday.  If you can, take a moment today to drop him an e-mail and wish him a happy and blessed day.

FINISH THE VERSE: Romans 10

Remember, the full list of FTV's can always be found at this link. The // in the verse marks the minimum number of words you need from the FTV to uniquely identify it.

QUESTION: This // means that it is not... 
ANSWER:  ...the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as offspring. (Romans 9:8)

QUESTION: For Christ // is the end...
ANSWER:  ...of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. (Romans 10:4)

QUESTION: Because // if you confess... 
ANSWER:  ...with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. (Romans 10:9-10)

QUESTION:  For there // is no distinction...
ANSWER:  ...between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:12-13)

QUESTION:  But how // are they to call... 
ANSWER:  ...on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” (Romans 10:14-15)


QUESTION:  So faith // comes from hearing...
ANSWER:  ...and hearing through the word of Christ. (Romans 10:17)

VOCABULARY: Romans 10

Paul had a large vocabulary, so sometimes he uses words with which you may be unfamiliar.  This weekly series attempts to help by highlighting potentially unfamiliar terminology.  If there are additional words you need help with, please e-mail the coaches.

Romans 10 Vocabulary:

Ignorant:  Lacking knowledge or education

Abyss:  A deep pit or chasm, sometimes referring to the grave

Bestowing:  Giving as a gift or leaving to as an inheritance

Contrary:  Stubbornly opposing

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: Redeemed

THIS WEEK: Study Romans, Chapter 10

This week (November 18 thru November 24), please read Romans, chapter 10

If you want to read the chapter online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

Click here to download an MP3 of the chapter.

If you'd like to read a commentary on the chapter, click here. (Free website, ChristNotes.Org)

If you want to download the puzzle for this week, click here.

Study Tip: During the holiday season, it becomes increasingly difficult to stay focused on Quiz Team.  Parties, concerts, plays, etc. eat more and more into your daily study time. How do you cope? First, accept the fact that your life will have competing priorities and that sometimes Quiz Team can't be #1. Second, realize that we only HAVE time if we MAKE TIME. Set aside some time every day for studying. Make it the same time, as much as possible, and try to be disciplined. Eventually, study time will become a habit, and something you won't have to work so hard to keep up.

Upcoming Events:
- November 23, Quiz Meet in Monroe, CT

CHAPTER REVIEW: Romans 9

If you'll miss practice this week we don't want you to miss out on the review of the chapter.  You can download Coach Mark's lesson by clicking here, or on the image below.

REFERENCE QUESTIONS: Romans 9

Remember, the full list of Reference Questions can always be found in the sidebar or at this link.

QUESTION:  According to Romans 9:3, who are my kinsmen? 
ANSWER:  My brothers. (cf Rom 9:3; 16:7, 11, 21)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 9:5, who is blessed forever? 
ANSWER:  The Christ (who is God over all). (cf Rom 1:25)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 9:13, what is written?
ANSWER:  “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” (cf Rom 1:17; 2:24; 3:4, 10; 4:17; 8:36; 9:13, 33; 10:15; 11:8, 26; 12:19; 14:11; 15:3, 9, 21)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 9:17, Scripture says what?
ANSWER:   (To Pharaoh:) “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” (cf Rom 9:17; 10:11; 11:3; Jam 4:5, 6)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 9:20, who are you to do what? 
ANSWER:  Answer back to God? (cf Rom 9:20; 14:4; Jam 4:12)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 9:27, who will be saved?
ANSWER:  Only a remnant of them. (cf Rom 9:27; 10:9, 13; 11:26)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 9:33, what is written?
ANSWER:  “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.” (cf Rom 1:17; 2:24; 3:4, 10; 4:17; 8:36; 9:13, 33; 10:15; 11:8, 26; 12:19; 14:11; 15:3, 9, 21)

WEEKLY COMIC: Prayer Styles

FINISH THE VERSE: Romans 9

Remember, the full list of FTV's can always be found at this link. The // in the verse marks the minimum number of words you need from the FTV to uniquely identify it.

QUESTION: This // means that it is not... 
ANSWER:  ...the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as offspring. (Romans 9:8)

QUESTION: But who are // you, O man...
ANSWER:  ...to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, “Why have you made me like this?” Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honored use and another for dishonorable use? (Romans 9:20-21)

VOCABULARY: Romans 9

Paul had a large vocabulary, so sometimes he uses words with which you may be unfamiliar.  This weekly series attempts to help by highlighting potentially unfamiliar terminology.  If there are additional words you need help with, please e-mail the coaches.

Romans 9 Vocabulary:

Unceasing:  Never ending

Anguish:  severe suffering

Accursed:  Living under a curse

Covenants:  Contracts or agreements between two parties

Patriarchs:  The earliest or greatest fathers among a person's ancestors.  For Israel, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, or the 12 sons of Jacob.

Forefather:  One of the males among a person's ancestors.

Exertion:  A great effort or work

Vessels:  A hollow container, like a pot

Remnant:  The few surviving individuals after a great calamity or tribulation

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: The Rock Won't Move

THIS WEEK: Study Romans, Chapter 9

This week (November 11 thru November 17), please read Romans, chapter 9

If you want to read the chapter online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

Click here to download an MP3 of the chapter.

If you'd like to read a commentary on the chapter, click here. (Free website, BibleGateway.Com)

If you want to download the puzzle for this week, click here.

Study Tip: Looking for more study tips from a different source? Check out StudyTips.Org for other ideas for improving your studying of the Bible and in school.

Upcoming Events:
- November 23, Quiz Meet in Monroe, CT

REMINDER: No practice today

Just a reminder that we will not be meeting for practice today.  All Sunday Schools are combined to hear about the short-term missions trips from this year.  Enjoy a day off, but don't let up!  We're right onto Romans 9 next week and the Quiz Meet is almost upon us!

BIBLE NEWS: Tweeting the WHOLE Bible

For the last three years, one dedicated user on Twitter has been tweeting a summary of every chapter of the Bible, one day at a time.  As of Friday, he has completed his project with the tweet "Rev22: The river of life flows from the throne of God. "Behold, I am coming soon. I am the beginning and the end." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!"  Now that is a social network worth following!

WEEKLY COMIC: Starting a Garden

LOOKING DEEPER: Calvin's Commentary on Romans

Are you enjoying working through the book of Romans?  There's a lot of theological depth and meat here.  If you are interested in looking deeper, consider checking out John Calvin's Commentary on Romans, available online for free!

BONUS COMIC: WWJD?

MUSICAL INTERLUDE: You Alone

THIS WEEK: Review Romans, Chapter 1-4

This week (October 4 thru November 10), please read Romans, chapter 1-4

If you want to read the chapters online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

If you need any resources from these past chapters, they're still available on the original posts:

• Romans 1
• Romans 2
• Romans 3
• Romans 4

Study Tip: It's tempting to use review weeks to sit back and watch TV instead of studying the old material.  But these are key opportunities to solidify your knowledge of sections on which you are weak.  Take a moment to read thru the chapters and identify areas of weakness.  Then find someone to sit with and quiz through those rough spots.

Upcoming Events:
- November 23, Quiz Meet in Monroe, CT

CHAPTER REVIEW: Romans 8

If you'll miss practice this week we don't want you to miss out on the review of the chapter.  You can download Coach Mark's lesson by clicking here, or on the image below.

REFERENCE QUESTIONS: Romans 8

Remember, the full list of Reference Questions can always be found in the sidebar or at this link.

QUESTION:  According to Romans 8:6, what is death?
ANSWER:  To set the mind on the flesh. (cf Rom 6:23)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 8:10, what is dead? 
ANSWER:  The body (cf Rom 8:10; Jas 2:17, 26)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 8:16, the Spirit himself what?
A. Bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God. (cf Rom 8:26)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 8:22, we know that what?
ANSWER:  The whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. (cf Rom 2:2; 3:19; 6:6, 9; 7:14; 8:22, 28)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 8:26, the Spirit himself what?
ANSWER:  Intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.

QUESTION:  According to Romans 8:28, we know that what?
ANSWER:  For those who love God, all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (cf Rom 2:2; 3:19; 6:6, 9; 7:14; 8:22, 28)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 8:32, he did not spare whom? 
ANSWER:  His own Son. (cf Rom 11:21)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 8:36, what is written?
ANSWER:  “For your sake we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.” (cf cf Rom 1:17; 2:24; 3:4,10; 4:17; 8:36; 9:13,33: 10:15; 11:8,26; 12:19: 14:11; 15:3,9,21)

Reformation Day

Yesterday was not only a day for candy and costumes.  It was also "Reformation Day" - the anniversary of the day Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg.

Martin Luther was a monk and a theologian of the Catholic Church in the 1500s. He had struggled his whole life with overwhelming feelings of guilt and awareness of his own sinfulness. He finally was able to overcome this by studying the book of Romans, where he learned that salvation is a Free Gift and that Jesus Christ had already done everything required by God.  He was known for both his scholarly teaching of students, and his compelling sermons at the local church. 

Pope Leo X needed money to fund the building of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, so he sent out priests on a fund-raised selling "indulgences".  Indulgences were pieces of paper that could be bought to get loved ones who had died out of Hell and into Heaven.  (This Pope didn't start the practice.  It was well-established by this time.  But it had not been seen in Germany during Luther's lifetime.)  Some of the priests of the time were so zealous to sell indulgences that they used tactics that we'd associate with a "used car dealer" today.   

Luther was outraged to see people selling Christ's "free gift".  He put together his 95 Theses - a list of 95 statements of what Luther believed to be true - and nailed them to the door of the local church.  (This was a common practice of the time for advertisements.)  He intended to have a scholarly debate on the subject with other theologians.  But copied of his 95 These made their way to Rome, and the pope ordered that Luther be tried for heresy (i.e. teaching false things about the Bible and the Church). 

The trial and its results triggered the Reformation, whereby nations and churches broke away from the Catholic Church and formed the many denominations of Christianity we know today.

FINISH THE VERSE: Romans 8

Remember, the full list of FTV's can always be found at this link. The // in the verse marks the minimum number of words you need from the FTV to uniquely identify it.

QUESTION: There is // therefore now...
ANSWER:  ...no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:1)

QUESTION: For God // has done what the law...
ANSWER:  ...weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. (Romans 8:3-4)

QUESTION:  For those who // live according to the flesh... 
ANSWER:  ...set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. (Romans 8:5)

QUESTION:  If the // Spirit of him...
ANSWER:  ...who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you. (Romans 8:11)

QUESTION:  For you // did not receive... 
ANSWER:  ...the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, Abba! Father! (Romans 8:15)

QUESTION:  The Spirit // himself bears witness... 
ANSWER:  ...with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs–heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. (Romans 8:16-17)

QUESTION:  For I consider // that the sufferings...
ANSWER:  ...of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. (Romans 8:18)

QUESTION:  Likewise the // Spirit helps us... 
ANSWER:  ...in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. (Romans 8:26)

QUESTION:  And // we know that...
ANSWER:  ...for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)

QUESTION:  For those whom // he foreknew...
ANSWER:  ...he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. (Romans 8:29)

QUESTION:  What then // shall we say...
ANSWER:  ...to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31)


QUESTION:  He // who did not spare...
ANSWER:  ...his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:32)

QUESTION:  Who shall // separate us...
ANSWER:  ...from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? (Romans 8:35)

QUESTION:  No in // all these things...
ANSWER:  ...we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. (Romans 8:37)


QUESTION:  For I am sure // that neither death nor life,... 
ANSWER:  ...nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39)

VOCABULARY: Romans 8

Paul had a large vocabulary, so sometimes he uses words with which you may be unfamiliar.  This weekly series attempts to help by highlighting potentially unfamiliar terminology.  If there are additional words you need help with, please e-mail the coaches.

Romans 8 Vocabulary:

Abba:  An intimate Aramaic term for "father", like "Daddy" in modern English.

Heirs:  Those who will receive/have received an inheritance.

Futility:    Ineffectiveness, powerlessness, not being used for its intended purpose.

Bondage:  Being enslaved or imprisoned.

Corruption:  Rot, losing ones good nature.

Firstfruits:  The first harvest from a field, orchard, or vineyard, often given to God as an offering of thanks

Redemption:  Being bought back at a price

Foreknew:  Had knowledge of before it came to happened.  Future knowledge.

Predestined:  Set for a particular future end.

Conformed:  Being made like someone or something else.

Intercedes:  Acts an an intermediary, intervene on behalf of someone else.

FROM THE QUIZ MEET: The Romans Road

This weekend, Coach Jim from Trumbull walked us all down the "Romans Road" - an excellent tool for teaching someone about salvation from the book of Romans.  If you want to keep a copy of it with you, or a link for easy access, here are several options for having the Romans Road alway with you!

Website:  http://m.evantell.org/GospelPresentation/MayIAskYouAQuestion.aspx

Printable Pamphlet:  http://www.teenmissions.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Roman-Road-Bookmark-.pdf

iPhone App:  https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/roman-road/id330284117?mt=8

Android App:  https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.droidandson.romansroad&hl=en

PHOTOS: Pictures from the Quiz Meet

Paparazzi pictures from this weekend's Quiz Meet in Trumbull, CT are up and ready for your enjoyment.  Click on the images below to see each whole set.

Coach Mark's Photos:

Coach Matt's Photos:

THIS WEEK: Study Romans, Chapter 8

This week (October 28 thru November 3), please read Romans, chapter 8

If you want to read the chapter online, click here. (Free website Biblegateway.Com)

Click here to download an MP3 of the chapter.

If you'd like to read a commentary on the chapter, click here. (Free website, ChistNotes.Org)

If you want to download the puzzle for this week, click here.

Study Tip: Are you a morning person or a night owl? Do you find yourself happiest and most focused early in the day, in the middle of it, or late at night when everyone else had gone to bed? Pay attention to these patterns in yourself, and try to study accordingly. If you are a morning person, consider getting up a half hour earlier and studying before school. If you are a night owl, you may want to make your studying the last thing you do before bed. Knowing your own rhythms can be of great help when trying to put God's word into your mind and heart.

Upcoming Events:
- November 23, Quiz Meet in Monroe, CT

CHAPTER REVIEW: Romans 7

If you'll miss practice this week we don't want you to miss out on the review of the chapter.  You can download Coach Mark's lesson by clicking here, or on the image below.

Home again! #quizmeet #biblequizzing

Heading home! #quizmeet #biblequizzing

Lunchtime! #biblequizzing #quizteam

Good quiz! #biblequizzing #quizmeet

Quizzing

Quizzing begins! #biblequizzing #quizmeet

Opening Ceremonies. #biblequizzing #quizmeet

Socializing. #quizmeet #biblequizzing

Gathering! #quizmeet

REFERENCE QUESTIONS: Romans 7

Remember, the full list of Reference Questions can always be found in the sidebar or at this link.

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:1, do you not know what?
ANSWER:  (Brothers) That the law is binding on a person only as long as he lives. (cf *Rom 6:3, 16; 7:1; 11:2; Jam 4:4)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:1, I am speaking to whom? 
ANSWER:  Those who know the law. (cf *Rom 7:1; 11:13)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:2, what if her husband dies?
ANSWER:  She is released from the law of marriage. (cf Rom 7:3)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:3, what if her husband dies?
ANSWER:  She is free from that law, and if she marries another man, she is not an adulteress. (cf Rom 7:2)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:7, you shall not what? 
ANSWER:  Covet. (cf Rom 13:9)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:8, sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, did what?
ANSWER:  Produced in me all kinds of covetousness. (cf Rom 7:11)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:11, sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, did what?
ANSWER:  Deceived me, and through it, killed me. (cf Rom 7:8)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:12, the law is what?
ANSWER:  Holy. (cf Rom 7:1, 12, 14, 16)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:14, the law is what?
ANSWER:  Spiritual. (cf Rom 7:1, 12, 14, 16)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:16, what if I do what I do not want?
ANSWER:  I agree with the law, that it is good. (cf Rom 7:20)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:18, I know what?
ANSWER:  That nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. (cf Rom 7:18; 14:14; 15:29)

QUESTION:  According to Romans 7:20, what if I do what I do not want?
ANSWER:  It is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. (cf Rom 7:16)

REMINDER: The Quiz Meet is TOMORROW!

The Quiz Meet in Trumbull, CT is tomorrow!  Now's the time to cram and get ready to show the other teams what we're made of.  Come on out and invite your friends and family to come and cheer us on, as well.

MEET AT THE CHURCH:  8:30 AM
QUIZ MEET BEGINS:  9:00 AM
COST:  $5.00 for lunch (or bring your own)
CHAPTERS COVERED:  Romans 1-6
RETURN TO THE CHURCH:  ~1:00 PM