Right vs. Rights (Teen Class)

David Smith

Mid-Atlantic Christadelphian Bible School (1997)

The “Right vs Rights” series thoughtfully explores the tension between what is divinely right and the human demand for personal rights. Through practical teaching, heartfelt exhortation, and deep scriptural reflection, these studies guide listeners toward a life shaped not by entitlement, but by self-examination, humility, and love. Each session helps uncover how disciples of Christ are called to move beyond self-interest and align with the higher calling of God’s righteousness.

Foolish Power

This opening study examines the world’s pursuit of power and control, contrasting it with the wisdom of God. While human pride often celebrates dominance, the apostle Paul shows that true strength is found in the message of the cross. What may appear foolish to the world is in fact the very means by which God brings salvation and calls his people to humility and faith.

Ecclesial Types

Here the speaker reflects on the different kinds of people within an ecclesia, each with their own strengths, weaknesses, and tendencies. Drawing from scripture, the lesson encourages believers to recognize these dynamics with honesty and patience, fostering an atmosphere where the focus is not on personal rights but on building up the body of Christ together.

Only in the Lord

This session considers Paul’s counsel that all decisions—whether in marriage, service, or daily conduct—must be guided by the principle of being “in the Lord.” The study challenges believers to test their choices against this standard, showing that discipleship is not about asserting personal freedoms but about living in faithful alignment with the will of God.

Self-Assessment

Turning inward, this lecture urges the listener to engage in careful and honest self-examination. Rather than focusing on what one is owed, the call is to measure one’s own heart and actions against the character of Christ. Through this process, disciples are reminded that humility and repentance open the way to genuine spiritual growth.

Right Versus Rights

At the heart of the series, this study confronts the modern fixation on individual rights and contrasts it with the biblical call to righteousness. Believers are reminded that the pursuit of personal entitlement often leads away from the path of discipleship, while seeking what is right in God’s sight leads to peace, unity, and blessing within the community of faith.

A More Excellent Way

The series concludes with Paul’s words from 1 Corinthians 13, reminding disciples that love surpasses every other gift, achievement, or claim. Without love, even the greatest displays of faith or sacrifice amount to nothing. The “more excellent way” is not found in the assertion of rights but in the daily practice of agape love, which fulfills the law and reflects the very character of God.

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Give ear, and hear my voice; give attention, and hear my speech.

Isaiah 28:23 (ESV)