05/31/2026
Join us broadcasting on Facebook from 411 Gilbert Lane, Gladys, VA, on this page for On The Wall E-Ministries Sunday School at 9:00 am & Worship Hour at 9:30 am each Sunday morning followed by Holy Communion on 1st Sundays. You can also follow us later on YouTube & Spotify, our “On The Wall Ministries page”, or our renewed “Faith, Food, & Fitness” page for reels, classes, lessons and sermons.
For Sunday School follow along with our Standard Commentary Lesson guide below:
May 31
Lesson 13 (KJV)
“Living in Christian Community!”
Devotional Reading:
Hebrews 1:1–6
Background Scripture:
Matthew 28:18– 20
Hebrews 10:22–25
Matthew 28:18– 20
18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Hebrews 10:22–25
22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Lesson Aims:
After participating in this lesson, each learner will be able to:
1. Identify the facets of worship in these Scripture passages.
2. Evaluate whether these facets are present in the learner’s life.
3. Make a plan to encourage fellow believers to live out their faith.
Introduction:
“Privileges and Responsibilities!”
My teenage children have household chores assigned to them. It is a way they contribute to our family responsibilities. Some days, my kids exceed all expectations for their tasks. On other days, however, I must remind them to complete their chores. Often, they ask, “Do we have to?” My children’s response creates the opportunity to talk about reliability, trustworthiness, and the importance of family. These chores are not just busywork. Each task, when completed, supports and strengthens the entire family. Each person’s contribution is vital to the health of the whole. Belonging to God’s family also includes specific responsibilities to God and other believers. Today’s lesson illustrates examples of these obligations. As we fulfill our commitments in obedience to God and our Christian brothers and sisters, we discover that life in God’s family is full of challenge, meaningful work, and relationship-building. Life in community offers fulfillment and eternal hope.
Lesson Context:
Today’s lesson comes from two New Testament texts. The first is Matthew 28, which describes events following Jesus’ resurrection. Mary discovers the empty tomb, brings the news to the disciples, and Jesus appears to them (Matthew 28:1–10). Religious officials pay off Roman soldiers to tell a different story (28:11–15). These events take place in and around Jerusalem. When we pick up with our text, however, the disciples are on a mountaintop in Galilee (28:16). Jesus gives them instructions for continuing ministry (28:18–20). The second text comes from the book of Hebrews. Its unnamed author draws significantly from the Old Testament, quoting or referencing it nearly 30 times. The book’s use of Old Testament passages strengthens its claims regarding Jesus and the new covenant. In particular, the author emphasizes Jesus’ superiority (Hebrews 1:5–2:18), priestly status (4:14–5:10), and eternal sacrifice (9:1–10:18). The verses just prior to today’s lesson establish that believers have access to the presence of God because of the work of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 10:19–20). Jesus serves as the “high priest over the house of God” (10:21). Through Jesus, believers may approach the very throne of God (see 4:16). Hebrews describes God’s house in new, spiritual terms (3:6). Jesus is not the priest of a physical building, such as the temple in Jerusalem. Instead, He is the priest over the very people of God (Ephesians 2:21–22). As members of God’s family, “lively stones” that make up His house (1 Peter 2:5), we host the Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 3:16). God calls believers to live faithfully in community, to respond to Him, and to serve each other.
Conclusion:
“Life in the Kingdom!”
Life in God’s kingdom is not a solo journey but a family endeavor. We fill various roles throughout our lives, as learners, proclaimers, mentors, guides, encouragers, worshipers, and those who serve. We participate in various activities to enhance and develop our faith. Matthew’s Gospel urges disciples to participate in kingdom building by proclaiming the gospel, baptizing new disciples, and teaching the way of King Jesus. It is a call for ongoing obedience to Him, commitment to one another, and care for humanity. The facets of worship presented in Jesus’ Great Commission point believers toward preaching and teaching, sacraments, public declarations of faith, and personal relationships with other believers through apprenticeship or mentoring. The book of Hebrews provides clear instructions on how believers are to behave within a Christian community. Unity in this community is anchored in the hope we have through faith in Christ (Hebrews 6:19). Worship elements highlighted throughout today’s passage include drawing near to God in confident faith, remembering our cleansing through Jesus’ blood, holding onto hope with steadfastness, encouraging one another in good works of service, and regularly meeting for worship and fellowship. Although today’s texts don’t use the word worship, a holistic life of worship is outlined within them. They pave the way for a comprehensive life as a disciple of Christ. Worship naturally occurs when God’s people gather and faithfully uphold His commands. Together, we remember Jesus’ sacrifice and person, celebrate His resurrection, and band together to make new disciples. We faithfully teach what Jesus taught, support one another, and urge each other toward actionable love. The people of God need one another as we follow King Jesus—the one who will one day return to judge the living and the dead (2 Timothy 4:1). Is there a facet of worship outlined in these texts that is missing from your personal practice? Have you taken an active role in both faithful discipleship and disciple-making?
Prayer:
All-powerful God, through Your Son, you invite us to participate in building Your kingdom. Empower us through Your Spirit to make disciples. Strengthen us to live faithfully in light of Your promises. Show us how to love and serve one another as we wait for Christ’s return. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Thought to Remember:
Christian community obeys God, loves others, and gathers faithfully.
