ADULT CHURCH SCHOOL LESSONS
OPEN TO EVERYONE!
- Read the assigned scriptures before class.
- Reflect on the provided questions.
- Be ready to share your thoughts during our discussion.
Journey through the book of Matthew, chapters 1–13.
June 1: Matthew 1
* Scripture: The genealogy of Jesus.
* Reflection Questions:
1. How do family stories and histories shape who we are today?
2. What does the inclusion of women like Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth in Jesus’ genealogy teach us about God’s kingdom?
3. Can you think of a lesser-known Black historical figure whose story has shaped their community?
June 8: Matthew 2
* Scripture: The visit of the Magi and the escape to Egypt.
* Reflection Questions:
1. Why do you think God chose Egypt as a place of refuge for Jesus?
2. How has Africa played a role in Biblical and Black history?
3. What lessons can we learn from the faithfulness of the Magi in following the star?
June 15: Matthew 3
* John the Baptist prepares the way.
* Reflection Questions:
1. How does John’s message of repentance apply to our lives today?
2. Can you think of a Black historical figure who spoke out boldly like John?
3. What does it mean to “prepare the way for the Lord” in today’s world?
June 22: Matthew 4:1–17
* Scripture: The temptation of Jesus in the wilderness.
* Reflection Questions:
1. How does Jesus’ example help us overcome temptation?
2. Can you think of a Black historical figure who overcame great trials and temptation?
3. What role does scripture play in resisting challenges?
June 29: Matthew 4:18–25
* Scripture: The calling of the first disciples.
* Reflection Questions:
1. What does it mean to be “fishers of people”?
2. How can we apply this calling in our daily lives?
3. Can you think of someone in Black history who was a great “fisher of people”?
July 6: Matthew 5:1–16
Reflections Questions:
1. Which Beatitude resonates most with you and why?
2. How can we be the 'light of the world' in challenging times?
3. What role has faith played in the civil rights movement and Black history?
July 13: Matthew 6:5–15
Reflections Questions:
1. How does the Lord’s Prayer shape our relationship with God?
2. Why is forgiveness so central to this prayer?
3. What lessons can we learn from Black leaders who embodied forgiveness and faith?
July 20: Matthew 7:1–12
Reflections Questions:
1. Why is it important to 'remove the plank from your own eye' before judging others?
2. How does the Golden Rule guide our relationships?
3. Can you share an example from Black history where the Golden Rule was practiced in adversity?
July 27: Matthew 8:1–13
Reflection Questions:
1. What do these healing stories teach us about faith?
2. How has faith been a source of healing in Black communities?
3. What can we learn from the humility of the centurion?
