Topical Bible Studies

Topical Bible Studies - 15 Lesson Series

2008-10-04T15:47:00.000-07:00

* This is a very exciting Bible Study series giving the foudational principles for growth in pleasing God. If you will e-mail me when you complete the quizes for each lesson to BibleTruths@hotmail.com I will return the answers to you so that you may change any wrong entries. There is a free New King James Bible and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance and Vine's Concise Dictionardto those who finish all 15 lessons [as long as supplies are available]. Thanks, Dennis Crawford,the editor.

Lesson 1 --- GOD
Lesson 2 --- Man
Lesson 3 --- Sin
Lesson 4 --- Grace
Lesson 5 --- Salvation
Lesson 6 --- Jesus Christ
Lesson 7 --- Christ in Prophecy
Lesson 8 --- Faith
Lesson 9 --- Repentance
Lesson 10 -- Confession
Lesson 11 -- Baptism
Lesson 12 -- Steadfastness
Lesson 13 -- The Word of God
Lesson 14 -- The church
Lesson 15 -- Worship

Lesson 1 --- GOD

2008-10-04T15:45:00.000-07:00

by Doug Jones
I. THE EXISTENCE OF GOD“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).

It is no accident that God is the subject of the very first verse of the Bible. That He exists is the basic truth upon which all reality depends. Without God there is nothing. From the viewpoint of the Biblical writers the existence of God needs no proof. There is overwhelming evidence of His existence and activity on every hand. “For since the creation of the world. His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead...’ (Romans 1:20). Further; “He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.” (Acts 14:17).

II. THE ETERNITY OF GOD
Difficult as it is for our finite minds to grasp. God has neither beginning nor end. In the words of Psalmist: “Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever You had formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” (Psalm 90:2) He is, Isaiah says, “the High and Lofty One Who inhabits eternity. “(Isaiah 57:15). God therefore is not only outside the limitations of time but also free from all change. “Heaven and earth,” the Psalmist declares, “they will be changed. But You are the same, And Your years will have no end.” (Psalms 102:26b-27). Moreover, God Himself declares: “For I am the LORD, I do not change.” (Malalicai 3:6). Consequently, there is abiding security, Moses tells us. only in Him who is timeless: “The eternal God is your refuge” (Deuteronomy 33:27). On the other hand, it is futile to seek security in the ever-changing things of earth and time, “For the form of this world is passing away” (1 Corinthians 7:31).

III. THE OMNIPRESENCE OF GOD
God is not limited by space. “Behold,” marvels Solomon, “heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain (God)” (1 Kings 8:27). Neither is God confined to any place. Know and consider, urges Moses. “The Lord Himself is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other.” (Deuteronomy 4:39). In awe David asks: “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there, If I take the wings of the morning, And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, Even there Your hand shall lead me, And Your right hand shall hold me....” (Psalms 139:7-10) “ ‘Do I not fill heaven and earth?’ says the LORD.” (Jeremiah 23:24). On hearing this scripture a puzzled child asked, “If God is everywhere, how is there any room for us?” The answer of course is that God is not a material but a spiritual Being. His presence does not exclude our existence but rather makes it possible “For in him we live, and move and have our being...” (Acts 17:28)

IV. THE OMNISCIENCE OF GOD
All things, past, present, and future, are known to God. By the mouth of the prophet Isaiah He proclaims, “I am God, and there is none like Me, Declaring the end from the beginning And from ancient times things that are not yet done,” (Isaiah 46:9-10)

The writer of Hebrews adds “there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.” (Hebrews 4:13). No thought is hidden from Him, “for the LORD searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts” (1 Chronicles 28:9) God, the Psalmist acknowledges, is “acquainted with all my ways” (Psalms 139:3), “my sins are not hidden from You” (Psalms 69:5). Again the Psalmist says: “Great is our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding is infinite.” (Psalms 147:5).

Beyond what God has revealed, then, there is for our finite minds “His understanding is unsearchable.” (Isaiah 40:28). No wonder the Apostle Paul exclaims: “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!” (Romans 11:33)

V. THE OMNIPOTENCE OF GOD
The power of God is limitless. He is thereby described as “the Lord God Omnipotent reigns!” (Revelation 19:6). Job confesses “I know that You can do everything And that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You.” (Job 42:1-2). The totality of God’s power is indicated by the following:

(1)

Nothing exists without Him.

The great God who formed everything

Proverbs 26:10

(2)

Nothing can thwart His purposes.

does according to His will ... No one can restrain His hand

Daniel 4:35

NOTE:

with God all things are possible

Matthew 19:26

impossible for God to lie

Hebrews 6:18

IV. THE CHARACTER OF GOD
Something of the character of God may be found on virtually every page of the Bible. Here, however, a few brief references must suffice.

God is righteous and holy

The LORD is righteous in all His ways, and holy in all His works

Psalms 145:17

He is gracious and merciful

Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; Yes, our God is merciful

Psalms 116:5

He is kind

You are God, Ready to pardon, Gracious and merciful, Slow to anger, Abundant in kindness

Nehemiah 9:17

He is a loving God.

God is love

1 John 4:16

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life

John 3:16

God is faithful

O LORD, You are my God. I will exalt You, I will praise Your name, For You have done wonderful things; Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth

Isaiah 25:1

He is Iongsuffering God.

is long-suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance

II Peter 3:9

VII. GOD AS SAVIOR
It is “God our Savior,” writes Paul, “who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (I Timothy 2:3, 4). God sent His Son to provide men salvation from the consequences of sin. “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners ...” (I Timothy 1:15). Further, God sent messengers to proclaim this good news. Regarding his own commitment to proclaiming the message, Paul says: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” (Romans 1:16).

VIII. GOD AS JUDGE
Abraham long ago posed a vital question: “Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” (Genesis 18:25). Indeed He shall! David is emphatic: “the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether” (Psalms 19:9). In view of the fact, then, that God is an absolutely righteous Judge. it is certain, as Paul insists, that He “will render to each one according to his deeds: eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality, but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, hut obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath” (Romans 2:6-8).

So it is not surprising that Paul, toward the close of his own fruitful life, could say with all confidence. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” (II Timothy 4:7-8).

IX. SUMMARY TRUTHS
It is impossible to avoid a decision about God. Simply to ignore Him is as much a decision as to deny His, existence, and carries the same fatal consequences. His “fingerprints” are all about us. His voice, moreover continues to sound forth from the Scriptures, calling upon men to believe in Him. “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6).
BIBLE QUIZ
TRUE OR FALSEI. There is little evidence that God exists.

A. True
B.

2. God is all powerful..

A. True
B.

3. There are some things even God doesn’t know..

A. True
B.

4. God loves all men..

A. True
B.

5. He saves all men..

A. True
B.

FILL IN THE BLANKS

Genesis 1:1

Psalm 90:2

Malachi 3:6

Dueteronomy 33:27

1 Corinthians 7:31

1 Chronicles 28:9

Romans 11:33

Psalms 145:17

Hebrews 6:18

10.

Psalms 19:9

Name Date
Address
City
phone
WHAT CAN YOU DO? You can accept the authority of Christ by doing what He commanded (Matthew 7:21; John 14:15; 15:10-14; Luke 6:46). Notice the pattern for becoming a Christian as revealed in the Scriptures. The Gospel was heard, resulting in faith (Romans 10:17). Repentance of (turning away from) sin (Acts 17:30) and confession of Jesus as the Son of God followed (Romans 10:10). Believers were baptized INTO Christ for the remission (forgiveness) of sins (See Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:20-21), and added to His church (Acts 2:47). Christians were taught to be faithful even to the point of death (Revelation 2:10).

WE WELCOME YOU Following the instructions of the Scriptures, members of Christ’s body [collectively called the “churches of Christ” Romans 16:16),] assemble as congregations for worship, encouragement, and Bible study. The congregation in your community welcomes you to investigate the Bible with us. With a spirit of brotherly love we would seek to reconcile any differences by following the Bible ONLY. We recognize the Bible as God’s inspired word, the ONLY reliable standard of faith and practice. We desire the unity for which Christ prayed and which the Bible emphasizes in the expression, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Together we seek to maintain “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

A friendly welcome awaits you. We do not wish to embarrass you in any way. You will not be asked for contributions. We assemble for Bible study and worship each Sunday morning and we welcome you to meet with us. We would be happy to talk to you about your questions and we want to be of encouragement.

If you have any comments or questions --- or would like the location and contact names of a congregation of the church belonging to Jesus Christ near you, please e-mail me at BibleTruths@hotmail.com or call 253-396-0290. Thanks Dennis Crawford, editor.

Lesson 2 --- Man

2008-10-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
The Origin of Man
In Genesis, the "Book of Beginnings," Moses writes: "And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness..." (Genesis 1:26). God is not physical in nature. Instead, as Jesus tells us, "God is a Spirit" (John 4:24). The "image of God" in man must therefore signify the spiritual nature God has given him. Man's likeness to his Creator is to be seen primarily in his personality, intellect, and moral constitution.

The Lord, Moses says, is "the God of the spirits of all flesh" (Numbers 27:16). And the writer of Hebrews informs us that God is "the Father of spirits" (Hebrews 12:9). Thus with regard to their origin, all men are called "the offspring of God" (Acts 17:29). Moses further writes: "And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul" (Genesis 2:7). This verse lays stress on the fact that man is also endowed with a physical nature. God formed man's body from the elements of the earth and formed "the spirit of man within him" (Zechariah 12:1). As the present dwelling of the human spirit, the physical body in therefore called "our earthly house" (II Corinthians 5:1).

The Purpose of Man's Creation
The fundamental reason for man's existence is indicated by Solomon: "The Lord hath made all things for himself" (Proverbs 16:4). John expresses essentially the same idea: "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou has created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created" (Revelation 4:11). Paul writes: "For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory forever, Amen" (Romans 11:36). "All things" obviously includes man. God created man for Himself, for His pleasure. Further, what God has said of Israel may also be said of every man: "I have created him for My glory" (Isaiah 43:7).

The Rank and Stewardship of Man
Man, Moses revealed, ranks above the animal creation and has been given dominion over it. He writes: "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth" (Genesis 1:27-28).

Though given dominion upon the earth, man is nevertheless ranked below the angels. David muses upon humanity's place in the Divine order of things and inquires: "What is man, that thou art mindful of him? And the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast make him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honor. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of they hands..." (Psalm 8:4-6).

The Duty of Man
The essence of man's duty is a reverence for God expressed in obedience to His will. Moses puts it this way: "Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the Lord thy God, to walk in His ways, and to fear Him" (Deuteronomy 8:6). Jesus, referring to the Hebrew scriptures, says: "for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve" (Matthew 4:10).

Elsewhere, He expresses man's obligation in terms of love. "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it. Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself" (Matthew 22:37-39). "Let us hear," says Solomon, "the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man" (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

The Disobedience of Man
Man has woefully failed to fulfill his duty. Speaking of the disobedience of men in ancient times, Paul says: "Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened" (Romans 1:21). It is a sad fact that the disobedience of the ancients has been repeated in each succeeding generation. Hence the apostle further remarks: "For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another" (Titus 3:3).

Solomon, moreover, affirms the disobedience of all men: "There is not a just man upon the earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not...Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions" (Ecclesiastes 7:20,29). Paul also recognizes this universality of disobedience when he says: "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). The prophet Isaiah sums up the matter thus: "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way" (Isaiah 53:6).

The Consequences of Man's Disobedience
All of the evils in the world are either directly or indirectly the result of man disobeying God's will. One consequence of disobedience is death and the suffering and sorrow that goes with it. Regarding the fruit of the forbidden tree, God warned Adam: "In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die" (Genesis 2:17). Adam partook of the fruit and brought death not only to himself but to all his descendants as well. So Paul writes: "Wherefore, as by one sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men..." (Romans 5:12).

Another consequence of disobedience is alienation from God--i.e. the loss of His favor and fellowship. Thus, reminding the Colossian Christians of their former state, Paul says: "And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled" (Colossians 1:21). But the ultimate consequence of disobedience, if it is not rectified, is eternal ruin. For the Lord, Paul tells us, shall be revealed from heaven, "In flaming fire taking vengeance of them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power"
(II Thessalonians 1:8-9).

The Salvation of Man
Man is utterly powerless to save himself from the consequences of his disobedience. "But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him" (Romans 5:8-9). It is therefore Christ who is said to be "the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him" (Hebrews 5:9). For this reason Paul can boldly say: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth..." (Romans 1:16).

The Destiny of Man
In the Hebrew letter we read that "it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27). At the day of judgment, the Lord "will render to every man according to his deed" (Romans 2:6). In Jesus' own words: "Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in which all that are in the graves shall hear His voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation" (John 5:28-29).

Summary Truths
From the beginning of the race, man has preferred his own way rather than the will of his all-wise Creator, invariably suffering the consequences of his self-will. No one has stated better than Solomon this lesson so often illustrated and yet seemingly so hard to learn: "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death" (Proverbs 14:12).

Lesson 2- Man - Quiz 1
Click on the correct answer

10)

Lesson 2 - Man - Quiz 2
Fill in the Blanks
1. Thou shalt ____________ the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou __________. (Matthew 4:10)
2. Thou shalt _______ thy neighbor as thyself. (Matthew 22:39)
3. All we like ________ have gone __________. (Isaiah 53:6)
4. While we were yet ____________ Christ __________ for us. (Romans 5:8-9)
5. The gospel is the power of God unto ________________ to everyone that _____________. (Romans 1:16)

Mixed answers: [astray, believeth, died, love, salvation, serve, sheep, sinners, worship].

WHAT CAN YOU DO? You can accept the authority of Christ by doing what He commanded (Matthew 7:21; John 14:15; 15:10-14; Luke 6:46). Notice the pattern for becoming a Christian as revealed in the Scriptures. The Gospel was heard, resulting in faith (Romans 10:17). Repentance of (turning away from) sin (Acts 17:30) and confession of Jesus as the Son of God followed (Romans 10:10). Believers were baptized INTO Christ for the remission (forgiveness) of sins (See Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:20-21), and added to His church (Acts 2:47). Christians were taught to be faithful even to the point of death (Revelation 2:10).

WE WELCOME YOU Following the instructions of the Scriptures, members of Christ’s body [collectively called the “churches of Christ” Romans 16:16),] assemble as congregations for worship, encouragement, and Bible study. The congregation in your community welcomes you to investigate the Bible with us. With a spirit of brotherly love we would seek to reconcile any differences by following the Bible ONLY. We recognize the Bible as God’s inspired word, the ONLY reliable standard of faith and practice. We desire the unity for which Christ prayed and which the Bible emphasizes in the expression, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Together we seek to maintain “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

A friendly welcome awaits you. We do not wish to embarrass you in any way. You will not be asked for contributions. We assemble for Bible study and worship each Sunday morning and we welcome you to meet with us. We would be happy to talk to you about your questions and we want to be of encouragement.

If you have any comments or questions --- or would like the location and contact names of a congregation of the church belonging to Jesus Christ near you, please e-mail me at BibleTruths@hotmail.com or call 253-396-0290. Thanks Dennis Crawford, editor.

Lesson 3 - Sin

2008-10-04T15:37:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is Sin?
The Bible describes sin in a variety of ways. It is, for example, to miss the mark or fall short of one's moral duties. It is a characteristic failure of man. In Paul's words: "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23). To sin is to do evil--i.e., to do that which causes pain and sorrow. Conduct of this sort was characteristic of those who rejected the message of Christ. The "loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil" (John 3:19).

To sin is also to wander from the truth. Hence James says: "Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death..." (James 5:19-20). Again, to sin is to commit wrong or injustice. "But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done..." (Colossians 3:25).

But however many ways it may be described, or whatever forms it may take, sin is in its most basic definition the violation of Divine law. "Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law" (I John 3:4).

The Source and Development of Sin
Jesus tells us that sin begins in the heart, the moral well-spring of man's being. He says: "For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man" (Mark 7:21-23). James, too, deals with the origin of sin. But he also outlines the course it runs to its termination. He writes: "Let no man say when he is tempted, 'I am tempted of God': for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth He any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death" (James 1:13-13).

The Effects of Sin
The injurious effects of sin are to be seen all about us. Yet there are those who prefer to ignore its evident ravages or even deny its reality. Even so, no amount of denial can make sin go away.

The most heinous aspect of sin is that it dishonors God who commands: "Be ye holy; for I am holy" (I Peter 1:16). Paul brings out this fact with a question: "Through breaking the law dishonorest thou God?" (Romans 2:23). Far from expressing doubt, the apostle well knows that a truthful answer must be affirmative. So, too, David acknowledges that he has offended God when he pleads: "Lord, be merciful unto me... for I have sinned against thee" (Psalm 41:4).

Sin separates men from God and His favor. "But your iniquities," says Isaiah to Israel, "have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid His face from you, that He will not hear" (Isaiah 59:2).

Sin produces a guilty conscience, shame, and fear. This is seen, for example, when, after eating of the forbidden fruit, "Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God..." (Genesis 3:8). Ezra, confessing the sins of his people, laments: "O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face to thee, my God: for our iniquities are increased over our head..." (Ezra 9:6). So, too, we read that "David's heart smote him... And David said unto the Lord, "I have sinned greatly in that I have done..." (II Samuel 24:10). And John reminds us that "if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things" (I John 3:20).

Sin produces death along with its companions, suffering and grief. Regarding the fruit of the forbidden tree, God warned Adam: "for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die" (Genesis 2:17). Adam ignored God's warning and thereby brought death not only upon himself but upon the whole human race. "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men..." (Romans 5:12).

NOTE: A man's sin, as in Adam's case, has consequences far beyond what he can imagine. The enormity of one's sin is magnified by the harm it does to others besides oneself. Just one sin brought universal death with all its misery.

Sin evokes the righteous judgments of God. Not only death but all of the temporal punishments men suffer for their disobedience demonstrate God's displeasure with sin. "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men..." (Romans 1:18). Ezra acknowledges the penal judgment of sin when he says: "And after all that is come upon us for our evil deeds... thou our God hast punished us less than our iniquities deserve" (Ezra 9:13). But the most awful of Divine judgments upon sin is eternal. Speaking of those who continue unrepentant in sin until death, Jesus says: "And these shall go away into everylasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal" (Matthew 25:46).

Provision for the Pardon of Sins
Man is incapable of providing the means for saving himself from the consequences of sin. Since he has sinned against God, only God can provide the means of pardon. This He has graciously done in the gift of His Son, "In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sin" (Colossians 1:14). Paul elsewhere expands upon this theme. He remarks: "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly... For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life" (Romans 5:6,10).
In view of the costly sacrifice Christ made for the pardon of our sins, the writer of Hebrews asks: "How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation...?" (Hebrews 2:3) There simply is, Peter makes clear, no other escape from sin's everlasting ruin besides God's provision in Christ. He says: "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).

The Conditions of Salvation from Sins
John the Baptist has described Jesus as "the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world" (John 1:29). The does not mean, however, that salvation is unconditional or universal. It is conditioned upon "the obedience of faith" (Romans 16:26; cf. Romans 1:5). Jesus called for this obedience of faith when He instructed His apostles: "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned" (Mark 16:15-16).

The obedience of faith is also expressed in repenting of one's sins. In Peter's words: "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins..." (Acts 2:38). Further, obedience includes confession of Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God. "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation" (Romans 10:10).

When one complies with these terms he is pardoned of his past sins and begins a new life committed to faithfully serving God. Hence Paul says: "But now being made free from sin, and become servants of God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life" (Romans 6:22).

Summary Truths
Life is filled with choices, and choices have consequences. But no choice is of greater consequence than one's decision about sin. "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23).

Lesson 3 - Sin - Quiz 1

Lesson 3 - Sin - Quiz 2

I John 3:4

Romans 5:12

Romans 3:23

I Peter 1:16

James 1:13-15

I John 3:20

Romans 1:18

Romans 6:23

Acts 2:38

10.

Hebrews 2:3

WHAT CAN YOU DO? You can accept the authority of Christ by doing what He commanded (Matthew 7:21; John 14:15; 15:10-14; Luke 6:46). Notice the pattern for becoming a Christian as revealed in the Scriptures. The Gospel was heard, resulting in faith (Romans 10:17). Repentance of (turning away from) sin (Acts 17:30) and confession of Jesus as the Son of God followed (Romans 10:10). Believers were baptized INTO Christ for the remission (forgiveness) of sins (See Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:20-21), and added to His church (Acts 2:47). Christians were taught to be faithful even to the point of death (Revelation 2:10).

WE WELCOME YOU Following the instructions of the Scriptures, members of Christ’s body [collectively called the “churches of Christ” Romans 16:16),] assemble as congregations for worship, encouragement, and Bible study. The congregation in your community welcomes you to investigate the Bible with us. With a spirit of brotherly love we would seek to reconcile any differences by following the Bible ONLY. We recognize the Bible as God’s inspired word, the ONLY reliable standard of faith and practice. We desire the unity for which Christ prayed and which the Bible emphasizes in the expression, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Together we seek to maintain “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

A friendly welcome awaits you. We do not wish to embarrass you in any way. You will not be asked for contributions. We assemble for Bible study and worship each Sunday morning and we welcome you to meet with us. We would be happy to talk to you about your questions and we want to be of encouragement.

If you have any comments or questions --- or would like the location and contact names of a congregation of the church belonging to Jesus Christ near you, please e-mail me at BibleTruths@hotmail.com or call 253-396-0290. Thanks Dennis Crawford, editor.

Lesson 4 - Grace

2008-10-04T15:19:00.001-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is Grace?
Sometime ago there was a popular bumper sticker which read: "Grace is not a blue-eyed blond." With a touch of humor this quip caught the eye and then left it to the reader to identify grace. Grace, of course, has a variety of meanings. The bumper sticker, however, in its roundabout way was referring to the grace of God. And that is our focus here.

Just what is the grace of God? Basically we may describe it as God's disposition of kindness expressed in acts of favor or benevolence. Thus, for example, Paul reminds the Ephesian Christians that God purposes to "show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 2:7).

The Unmerited Grace of God
Luke informs us that Jesus grew "strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him" (Luke 2:40). Scripture in no way suggests that Jesus did not merit this grace. To the contrary, He did indeed merit such favor because He "did no sin" (I Peter 2:22); because He perfectly fulfilled the will of God.

However, no other man has ever thus merited God's grace, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Sin merits God's wrath. Yet "He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities" (Psalm 103:10). The withholding of punishment is itself therefore an expression of unmerited favor, as are all of the countless other benefits God bestows upon a sinful race.

Not only is the sinner (every man) undeserving of God's grace, there is no way he can make himself deserving. He cannot earn God's blessings. And if he could, they would then be his due, not a matter of unmerited favor. Hence Paul says: "Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt" (Romans 4:4). To what man is God indebted? "Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?" (Romans 11:35). The implied answer is that God owes no man anything. All of His benevolence is therefore surely a bestowal of grace.

God's Grace to All Men
In the manifold grace of God, there are certain blessings which in general are bestowed upon all mankind. Among the most basic are these:

The gift of life:

giveth to all life, and breath

Acts 17:25

in thy favor is life

Psalm 30:5

The necessities of life:

maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust

Matthew 5:45

who giveth food to all flesh" (Psalm 136:25). Indeed He "daily loadeth us with benefits

Psalm 68:19

The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works

Psalm 145:9

The gift of a Savior:

And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world

I John 4:14

The gospel of Christ:

the gospel of the grace of God

Acts 20:24

the word of his grace

Acts 14:3

the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek

Romans 1:16

Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned

Mark 16:15-16

God's Grace to Believers
There are many gifts of grace that are reserved to believers, i.e., blessings which are conditioned upon "the obedience of faith" (Romans 16:26), and which are bestowed "in Christ." Space limitations permit us to mention only a few of the most notable of these unmerited favors.
Forgiveness of sins: It is Christ, Paul reminds the Ephesians, "In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace" (Ephesians 1:7).
Justification: When the believer is forgiven of his sins he is granted right-standing with God, "Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" (Romans 3:24).
Peace with God: Although sin causes alienation from God, the enmity ceases when the believer is justified. Hence, regarding this gracious state, Paul says: "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 5:1).
Salvation: Nowhere is the kindness of God more wondrously at work than in the deliverance of helpless sinners from the consequences of their sins. But is a blessing reserved for those sinners who believe. "For by grace are ye save through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8).
Sufficiency: Regarding the supply of all things necessary for Christian service, Paul states: "And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work"(II Corinthians 9:8).
Free access to Divine help: God welcomes the petitions of His servants. "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).
Consolation and hope: To the Thessalonians Paul writes: "Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and establish you in every good word and work" (II Thessalonians 2:16-17).
Eternal Life: Of this ultimate expression of grace the Apostle says: "But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:22-23).

Stewards of Grace
Peter admonishes the recipients of God's grace to conduct themselves "as good stewards of the manifold grace of God" (I Peter 4:10). In the same vein Paul writes: "Moreover it is required of stewards, that a man be found faithful" (I Corinthians 4:2). It is thus clear that with gifts of grace there also comes responsibility. The steward shall be held accountable for his use of the gifts entrusted to him. In order to be found faithful, then, the steward must "grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (II Peter 3:18).

Falling From Grace
Is falling from grace a real possibility? Indeed the Scriptures plainly point out a number of things which can cause one to fall.
Pride: "Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall" (I Corinthians 10:12).
Turning from Christ to the Law for justification: "Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace" (Galatians 5:4).
An evil heart: "Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God" (Hebrews 3:12).
Lack of diligence: It is essential that the Christian be dedicated to holy living, "Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God" (Hebrews 12:15).

Summary Truths
God in countless ways is kind to all men, even to "the unthankful and to the evil" (Luke 6:35). In bestowing these kindnesses, however, God is not sanctioning or ignoring men's sins. On the contrary, in these very gifts He is giving them time and incentive to turn from their sins that they may receive immeasurably greater grace through Christ, "That being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life" (Titus 3:7).

Lesson 4 - Grace - Quiz 1
Click on the correct answer

10)

Lesson 4 - Grace - Quiz 2
Fill in the Blanks

Psalm 68:19

Ephesians 2:8

Psalm 30:5

II Corinthians 9:8

I Corinthians 4:2

Lesson 5 - Salvation

2008-10-04T15:18:00.001-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is Salvation?The term "salvation" properly denotes preservation or deliverance from danger or destruction. In Scripture it is sometimes used of deliverance from such perils as a storm, shipwreck, or prison. But usually, and far more importantly, the word signifies deliverance from the consequences of sin. It should be added, however, that the implicit outcome of salvation is not only deliverance from sin but also the enjoyment of all that God has prepared for the saved.

Salvation from SinWith great thankfulness Paul writes: "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief" (I Timothy 1:15). Christ, we are told, "gave Himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father" (Galatians 1:4). "So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation" (Hebrews 9:28).

Salvation from DeathIt is "our Savior Jesus Christ," says Paul, "who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" (II Timothy 1:10). The Apostle obviously cannot mean this earthly life no longer terminates in physical death. For it is still true that "it is appointed unto men once to die..." (Hebrews 9:27).

Those, however, who respond to the gospel and remain faithful to Christ not only shall not be held by physical death, neither shall they be subject to "the second death" (Revelation 20:14)--i.e., eternal death. James, too, has this second death in mind when he remarks: "Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death..." (James 5:20).

Salvation from WrathGod's wrath is neither malicious nor arbitrary. It is a necessary expression of His righteous indignation against sin. It is therefore due to their wickedness that "the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience" (Colossians 3:6). The Lord shall come, "in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power" (II Thessalonians 1:8-9).

On the other hand, those who faithfully serve God are through Christ assured of deliverance "from the wrath to come" (See I Thessalonians 1:9-10). "For God hath no appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ" (I Thessalonians 5:9).

Salvation in ChristAll of God's provisions for our salvation are centered in Christ, who "hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God..." (I Peter 3:18). Christ thus "Is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him..." (Hebrews 7:25). Peter states: "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12). This vital truth is confirmed by Paul when he says: "Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sake, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory" (II Timothy 2:10).

The Gospel of SalvationHaving provided for salvation in Christ, God sent messengers to proclaim the good news to men. That message is called "the word of the gospel" (Acts 15:7) and "the word of this salvation" (Acts 13:26). As the Divine means of bringing men to Christ, the gospel is "the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth..." (Romans 1:16). Hence it is Christ, Paul reminds the Ephesians, "In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation..." (Ephesians 1:13).

Saved by GraceSalvation apart from grace is impossible. And it is in the mission and message of Christ that God has revealed His wondrous saving grace to a sinful race. This is what Paul means when he writes: "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men" (Titus 2:11). But grace, it should be noted, is also attributed to Christ, since it is His vicarious death for undeserving sinners that has made salvation possible. Hence Peter says: "For we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved..." (Acts 15:11).

In another very significant passage dealing with salvation by grace, Paul remarks that God "hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ..." (II Timothy 1:9-10). Here the apostle contrasts God's almighty grace with ineffectual human works. If man by his own efforts could have devised a way to save himself from the consequences of sin, there would have been no need for saving grace. But man is powerless to provide the means for his salvation. Those provisions are entirely a matter of Divine grace.

One cannot earn salvation nor compensate God for it. This does not mean, however, that there is nothing for one to do to be saved. Salvation is conditioned upon obedience to the Divine will. Christ is therefore said to be "the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him" (Hebrews 5:9). Paul again emphasizes the necessity for obedience in his letter to the Philippians. He writes: "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling" (Philippians 2:12).

It is in obeying God's will that one works out his own salvation. But the apostle in no way suggests that one thereby earns or merits salvation. It is still and undeserved gift from God.

NOTE: Various aspects of obedience (i.e., specific things which God requires) will be dealt with more fully in subsequent lessons.

Saved by FaithFaith clearly is indispensable to salvation. For, as the writer of Hebrews points out, God has said: "Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him" (Hebrews 10:38). Having made this point, the writer adds: "But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul" (Hebrews 10:39). Faith, however, must have its proper object. One cannot be saved by believing in whatever he chooses. God has conditioned salvation upon faith in "our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (II Peter 1:11). Moreover, it is the Holy Scriptures, Paul tells Timothy, that are "able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus" (II Timothy 3:15).

But faith which saves, it must also be noted, involves more than simply assenting to the fact the Jesus is Lord. In Jesus' words: "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 7:21). Faith which saves is thus faith which moves one to obey God. Often, therefore, faith is used as a comprehensive term embracing all that God requires men to do. Finally, saving faith entails a life-long commitment to the Lord. Hence Jesus says: "be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life" (Revelation 2:10).

Summary TruthsThe vital importance of salvation is indicated in the fact that it was provided at so great a cost. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). Through the gospel God graciously calls upon men everywhere to turn to Christ and be saved: "behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation" (II Corinthians 6:2). Another day, the awful day of God's righteous wrath, is coming. "How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation...?" (Hebrews 2:3).

Lesson 5 - Salvation - Quiz 1
Click on the correct answer

10)

Lesson 5 - Salvation - Quiz 2
Fill in the Blanks

I Timothy 1:15

Acts 4:12

Hebrews 5:9

Colossians 3:6

Hebrews 2:3

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Matthew 7:21; John 14:15; 15:10-14; Luke 6:46

Romans 10:17

Acts 17:30

Romans 10:10

Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:20-21

Acts 2:47

Revelation 2:10

WE WELCOME YOU Following the instructions of the Scriptures, members of Christ’s body [collectively called the “churches of Christ” Romans 16:16),] assemble as congregations for worship, encouragement, and Bible study. The congregation in your community welcomes you to investigate the Bible with us. With a spirit of brotherly love we would seek to reconcile any differences by following the Bible ONLY. We recognize the Bible as God’s inspired word, the ONLY reliable standard of faith and practice. We desire the unity for which Christ prayed and which the Bible emphasizes in the expression, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Together we seek to maintain “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

A friendly welcome awaits you. We do not wish to embarrass you in any way. You will not be asked for contributions. We assemble for Bible study and worship each Sunday morning and we welcome you to meet with us. We would be happy to talk to you about your questions and we want to be of encouragement.

If you have any comments or questions --- or would like the location and contact names of a congregation of the church belonging to Jesus Christ near you, please e-mail me at BibleTruths@hotmail.com or call 253-396-0290. Thanks Dennis Crawford, editor.

Lesson 6 - Jesus Christ

2008-10-04T15:16:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
The Incomparable Jesus ChristAgainst the backdrop of all human history, "Jesus, who is called Christ" (Matthew 1:16) stands out as the singularly most remarkable individual ever to dwell upon the earth; remarkable not only for His faultless character and wondrous works, but also for His profound impact on the lives and destinies of me. The personal name "Jesus" (corresponding to the Hebrew "Joshua") means "Jehovah is Salvation." Very significantly, therefore, this name sets forth the most vital aspect of His activity in human affairs. In the angel's words to Joseph: "thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21).

Equally significant and instructive, the title "Christ" (corresponding to the Hebrew "Messiah") means "anointed." It denotes one chosen and consecrated by God to carry out His purposes. Through the Hebrew prophets God promised to send His Anointed to provide deliverance from sin: "as it is written, There shall come out of Zion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob" (Romans 11:26). Accordingly, when Peter presents the risen Christ as that Deliverer he declares: "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ" (Acts 2:36).

The Deity of ChristHowever difficult an idea it may be for us to comprehend, the Scripture clearly attribute Deity to Christ. First we note that Christ definitely claimed Deity for Himself. When, for example, His Jewish opposers argued that He could not have seen Abraham because He was not yet fifty years old, Jesus replied: "Before Abraham was, I am" (John 8:58). The Jews immediately sought to stone Jesus because they regarded His claim as blasphemy since God at the burning bush had revealed Himself to Moses as "I AM" (Exodus 3:14).

John is just as explicit. He writes: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). This personal Word "took upon him the seed of Abraham" (Hebrews 2:16), "was made in the likeness of men" (Philippians 2:7), and was "declared to be the Son of God" (Romans 1:4). John thus reports: "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth" (John 1:14).

If Christ is indeed the Son of God then we would expect Him to be credited with attributes of Deity. And that is just what we find. Scripture reveals, for instance, that God "created all things by Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 3:9). "All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made" (John 1:3). It is further recorded that Christ controlled the forces of nature (Matthew 8:26-27), knew the thoughts of men (Matthew 9:4), forgave sins (Matthew 9:2), and raised the dead (John 11:43-44), all of which are unquestionably powers and prerogatives of God.

The Humanity of ChristWhen the angel announced the birth of Jesus to Mary, he said: "He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David" (Luke 1:32). This verse clearly indicates that Christ is both the Son of God and the Son of David. He consequently referred to Himself sometimes as the Son of God and at other times as the Son of man.

We also read that "God sent forth his Son, made of a woman..." (Galatians 4:4). He thereby was made a partaker of "flesh and blood" (Hebrews 2:14) and so became "the man Christ Jesus" (I Timothy 2:5). It is thus evident that although Scripture pictures Christ as being more than a man, it nevertheless also depicts Him as being as fully human as you and I.

Like us, He hungered (Matthew 4:2) and thirsted (John 19:28). He ate and drank (Matthew 11:19). He grew weary (John 4:6) and He slept (Matthew 8:24). He rejoiced (Luke 10:21), He wept (John 11:35), and He experienced sorrow (Matthew 26:36-37) and suffering (I Peter 2:23). There is one vital area, however, in which Christ differed greatly from us. He "was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:25).

The Mission of ChristWe should note first that Christ tells us His mission originated in heaven and was an expression of His Father's will. He states: "For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me" (John 6:38). Regarding the fundamental object of His mission, Christ says: "For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10).

In order to save the lost it was necessary for Christ to do what no other man has done--i.e., He rendered perfect obedience to the Father's will, even to giving His life. "Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him" (Hebrews 5:8-9).

The Death of ChristThe death of Christ, Paul indicates, is the supreme expression of God's love for sinful and undeserving men. He writes: "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). To understand why the death of Christ was necessary, we must first understand the consequences of sin. Sin not only alienates men from a holy God, it also makes them liable to His righteous wrath and the ultimate penalty of death. God could not remain righteous and forego the punishment of sin. But He so loved us that He sent Christ to bear our penalty for us.

We must not, however, overlook the equally great love of Christ in voluntarily giving His life for us. In Paul's words: "Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God..." (Ephesians 5:2). Through this loving sacrifice we not only receive forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God, but also are graciously "made heirs according to the hope of eternal life" (Titus 3:7).

The Resurrection of ChristThe Scriptures set forth Christ's resurrection as an essential element in the salvation of man. Paul, for example, reminds his readers that Christ "was delivered up for our offenses, and was raised again for our justification" (Romans 4:25). So significant an event must be confirmed beyond all reasonable doubt. Christ therefore "showed Himself alive" to His disciples "by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days..." (Acts 1:3). On one occasion, moreover, "He was seen of above five hundred brethren at once" (I Corinthians 15:6). With good reason, then, such witnesses "preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead" (Acts 4:2).

The Ascension of ChristLuke depicts for us what must have been a very moving scene when, forty days after His resurrection, Christ led the eleven disciples "out as far as Bethany... and blessed them. And... while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven" (Luke 24:50-51). While this glorious event signaled the end of Christ's redemptive ministry on earth, it also heralded the beginning of His intercessory ministry in heaven for the redeemed. Hence Paul says: "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us" (Roman 8:34).

The Second Coming of ChristAs the disciples watched Christ ascend, a messenger of the Lord announced: "this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven" (Acts 1:11). "Behold," says John, "he cometh with the clouds; and every eye shall see Him..." (Revelation 1:7). It is then that all who "are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth, they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation" (John 5:28-29).

Summary TruthsThis incomparable Jesus Christ, the "one mediator between God and men" (I Timothy 2:5), stands at the crossroads of every man's life, calling for a decision of eternal moment--a decision to follow Him. He proclaims: "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father but by Me" (John 14:6).

Lesson 6 - Jesus Christ - Quiz 1Click on the correct answer

Jehovah is Salvation

comforter

10)

Lesson 6 - Jesus Christ - Quiz 2Fill in the Blanks

Acts 2:36

John 8:58

Galatians 4:4

Hebrews 4:15

Luke 19:10

Lesson 7 Christ in Prophecy

2008-10-04T14:56:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
The Significance of Prophecy
The Biblical prophets were inspired by God to speak His word to men. As forth-tellers of the Divine will they sometimes foretold future events. They prophesied, for example, of Christ and His mission hundreds and even thousands of years before He came. It is not surprising, therefore, that when some of Jesus' disciples dismissed reports of His resurrection, He responded: "O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken... And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself" (Luke 24:25, 27).

The unique fulfillment of these prophecies in Jesus is presented by His messengers as one of the strongest evidences that He is the Christ whom God promised to send. Apollos, for instance, "mightily convinced the Jews... showing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ" (Acts 18:28). Although space permits us to note only a few of these Messianic prophecies, they surely are sufficient to convince any unbiased mind that they originated with God and are fulfilled in His Son.

The Promised Seed
Some 2000 years before Christ, God promised Abraham that one of his descendants would bring mankind the blessing of salvation. He said: "and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed" (Genesis 22:18). The inspired penman and apostle, Paul, pointedly identifies this descendant. He writes: "Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, and to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ" (Galatians 3:16).

The Virgin Birth
Luke tells us that an angel of the Lord informed Mary: "And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS... Then Mary said unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?" (Luke 1:31, 34). When Joseph learned that Mary, his betrothed, was pregnant, he thought she had been unfaithful until the angel also appeared to him, "saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary they wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 1:20).

Matthew very significantly adds: "Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us" (Matthew 1:22-23). This extraordinary prediction of the birth of Christ was uttered by Isaiah more than 700 years before the event occurred (see Isaiah 7:14).

The Place of Christ's Birth
Luke reports that in the year of Christ's birth, Caesar imposed a tax upon his subjects, requiring all to be registered for this purpose in the city of their lineage. Consequently Joseph journeyed with Mary to Bethlehem, where on their arrival, Christ was born (see Luke 2:1-20). The decree of a pagan ruler was thus remarkably instrumental in the fulfillment of a prophecy spoken by Micah seven centuries earlier: "But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah... out of thee shall He come forth unto Me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting" (Micah 5:2; cf. Matthew 2:1-6).
Note: This verse also points to the Deity of Christ. He is "from everlasting"--i.e., of ancient days.

The Death of Christ
Many of the events associated with Christ's death were striking fulfillments of prophecy. We not without comment the following examples:

"And they crucified Him, and parted His garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted My garments among them, and upon My vesture did they cast lots" (Matthew 27:35; see Psalm 22:18; John 19:23-24).

"And with Him they crucified two thieves... And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And He was numbered with the transgressors" (Mark 15:27-28; see Isaiah 53:12).

"They gave Him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when He had tasted thereof, He would not drink" (Matthew 27:34; see Psalm 69:21).

"And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, He said, Father, into they hands I commend My spirit; and having said thus, He gave up the ghost" (Luke 23:46; see Psalm 31:5).

"But when they came to Jesus, and saw that He was dead already, they brake not His legs... For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of Him shall not be broken" (John 19:33, 36; see Psalm 34:20).

The Resurrection of Christ
David long ago wrote: "I have set the LORD always before me: because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption" (Psalm 16:8-10). Peter, however, points out that David, being now for many centuries dead and buried, could not have been speaking here of himself. "Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on His throne; He, seeing this before, spake of the resurrection of Christ, that His soul was not left in hell, neither His flesh did see corruption" (Acts 2:30-31).

Christ as Prophet
Nearly fifteen centuries before Christ came, God promised to send a prophet who, like Moses, would be a deliverer. That prophet, Peter informed his fellow Jews, is Christ: "For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you ... Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from His iniquities" (Acts 3:22, 26; see Deuteronomy 18:15). Christ had this same prophecy in view when He responded thus to an unbelieving Jewish audience: "For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed Me: for he wrote of Me" (John 5:46).

Christ as King
When Pilate inquired: "Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth My voice" (John 18:37). While many prophecies might be cited confirming Christ's claim of kingship, we have selected two contrasting scriptures, one stressing His humanity and the other His Deity.

As Christ entered Jerusalem shortly before His death, some of the people met Him, shouting: "Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord. And Jesus, when He had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written, Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt" (John 12:13-15; see Zechariah 9:9).

God, the writer of Hebrews tells us, "Hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son... But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is forever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of thy kingdom" (Hebrews 1:2, 8; see Psalm 45:6).

Christ as Priest
Thirty centuries ago David wrote: "The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek" (Psalm 110:4). The identity of this perpetual priest is clear. He is "Jesus, made an high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek" (Hebrews 6:20). The risen Christ, therefore, "because He continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them" (Hebrews 7:24-25).

Summary Truths
Jesus asks: "What think ye of Christ? Whose son is He?" (Matthew 22:42). Is He merely "the carpenter's son," as some have said? (Matthew 13:55). God declares: "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him" (Matthew 17:5). His prophets, moreover, speak with one voice in confirming that Christ is God's Son and man's Savior. "To him give all the prophets witness, that through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins" (Acts 10:43). What do you think of Christ?
Lesson 7 - Christ in Prophecy - Quiz 1
Click on the correct answer:
1) Moses was a prophet.
A True
B False

2) Paul says that Christ is the promised seed (descendant) of Abraham.
A True
B False

3) Isaiah prophesied that Christ would be born at Bethlehem.
A True
B False

4) Christ did not claim to be a king.
A True
B False

5) What one thinks of Christ is vitally important.
A True
B False

6) Christ expounded from the ___________
A Talmud
B tradition
C scriptures

7) Isaiah prophesied, Behold a ___________ shall be with child.
A woman
B virgin
C mother

8) Emmanuel means __________ with us.
A. God
B. man
C. angel

9) Christ was crucified with two ___________
A soldiers
B thieves
C priests

10) Christ is a priest forever after the order of ____________
A Moses
B Aaron
C Melchizedek
Lesson 7 - Christ in Prophecy - Quiz 2
Scripture References
Give the correct book, chapter, and verse
Book Chapter:Verse---
1. : In thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.
2. : And they crucified Him, and parted His garments, casting lots.
3. : Father, into thy hands I commend My spirit
4. : Art thou a king then?
5. : This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him.

Lesson 8 - Faith

2008-10-03T20:48:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is Faith?
The Biblical writers use this very significant term with varying shades of meaning. Among the principal usages are these:

Faith sometimes denotes a conviction of the truth of anything, especially the truth of God's Word.

chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth

2 Thessalonians 2:13

Faith is also spoken of, as a confidence in something one cannot see.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen

Hebrews 11:1

walk by faith, not by sight

2 Corinthians 5:7

signifies that which is believed - i.e. the contents of Christian faith.

confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith

Acts 14:22

earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints

Jude 3

Most often however, and of vital importance, faith denotes a trust in God (or Christ) which not only relies upon the truth of His word but is also committed to doing His will.

faith that obeys

the father of all them that believe

Romans 4:11

By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed

Hebrews 11:8

Faith in God
Faith in God is essential to the salvation, well being and happiness of man. "But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him" (Hebrew 11:6).Notice that here again the faith in view involves more than simply believing God exists. That he exists; James points out, "the devils also believe, and tremble" (James 2:19). Yet because of their disobedience they are far from pleasing God. Those who please God:

(1) not only believe He exists
(2) but also earnestly seek Him that they may know and obey His will.

It is, moreover, to just such faithful seekers of God that Paul confidently writes: "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing…." (Romans 15:13).

Faith in Christ
Faith in Christ is equally as necessary to man's salvation and eternal blessedness. Jesus on the eve of the crucifixion spoke thus to His disciples: "you believe in God, believe also in Me" (John 14:1). But in these memorable words to the twelve Jesus has also set forth the Divine requisite for every man -- a requisite issuing from love. "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

Here too, it is important to understand what this sort of faith in Christ entails. It is more than simply a conviction of the truth of Christ's claims. This much many of the Jewish officials of His day believed, yet without any saving benefit to themselves. For John tells us: "Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed in Him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God" (John 12:42-43).

Clearly the faith which Christ demands not only acknowledges His claims but also conforms the believer's life to His teaching. This is what Paul describes as "faith which works by love" (Galatians 5:6), and is epitomized in Jesus' own words: "If ye love Me, keep My commandments" (John 14:15).

The Medium of Faith
Faith is not a direct gift from God. It is produced through the medium of His word. Peter illustrates this fact when he informs us God chose him "that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe" (Acts 15:7). In full accord Paul writes: "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?…So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:13-14,17). It is therefore God's wise and gracious appointment that the gospel of Christ be "made known to all nations for the obedience of faith" (Romans 16:26).

The Basis of Faith
The faith that Scripture enjoins, we should note, is not blind trust. God does not require men to believe in Him without credible evidence of His existence, character and purposes. That evidence abounds in both His word and His works.

The basis for faith in Christ is no less credible. The Hebrew Scriptures record hundreds of prophecies foretelling His coming and His mission. So it is not surprising that Jesus appeals to Scripture when He rebukes His Jewish detractors for their own unbelief. He says: "For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed Me; for he wrote of Me" (John 5:46). He responds in stronger terms to those disciples who refuse to believe the reports of His resurrection: "O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken…And beginning at Moses and all the prophets; He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself" (Luke 24:25,27).

In addition to the testimony of the prophetic word, Jesus' own miraculous works also witness to the credibility of His claims. In John's words: "And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that you might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you might have life through His name" (John 20:30-31).

Salvation by Faith
Salvation is a gracious gift of God but not an unconditional gift. It is conditioned upon faith. For it pleased God by the preaching of the gospel. Paul says, "to save them that believe" (1 Corinthians 1:21). It must once more be noted, however, that saving faith is more than a conviction that Jesus is Lord. To those who think this is sufficient, Jesus says: "And why do you call Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" (Luke 6:46).

What is required then, is again faith, which obeys. For Jesus is “the author of eternal salvation unto them that obey Him" (Hebrews 5:9). Salvation is indeed conditioned upon faith, but faith is not the only condition God has established. Faith is the initial response in bringing one into a saving relationship to Christ. One must also repent of his sins in order to be saved. Hence Peter urges: "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out…." (Acts 3:19). A public confession of Christ is called for as well. "For with the heart man believes unto righteousness: and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation" (Romans 10:10). Baptism is the consummating act of faith, which brings one into a saving relationship to Christ. "For," says Paul to the Galatians; "you are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ" (Galatians 3:26-27).

Steadfast Faith
While the foregoing responses unite one with Christ, "the obedience of faith" does not end there. It has in fact only begun. Faith must continue to work and grow and persevere. Believers therefore are enjoined: "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for He is faithful that promised)" (Hebrews 10:23).

Summary Truths
The importance of faith in Christ cannot be overstated. For it is the difference between life and death, between eternal happiness and everlasting ruin. "He that believes on the Son has everlasting life: and he that believes not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abides on him" (John 3:36).

Lesson 8 - Faith - Quiz 1Fill in the Blanks
1. Faith is the ________________ of things hoped for, the ___________ of things not __________. (Hebrews 11:1)

2. ___________ comes by hearing, and hearing by the ___________ of God. (Romans 10:17)

3. God is a ___________ of them that diligently ____________ Him. (Hebrews 11:6)

4. _______________ ye therefore, and be ___________, that your ______________ may be blotted out. (Acts 3:19)

5. Christians are to earnestly contend for the ____________ which was ______________ unto the saints. (Jude 3)
Lesson 8 - Faith - Quiz 2Insert the correct answer
1) It pleased God by the preaching of the ___________ to save them that believe.
A. law
B. epistles
C. gospel

2) Jesus said: you believe in ___________, believe also in Me.
A. tradition
B. God
C. yourselves

3) The devils also believe, and __________
A. repent
B. obey
C. tremble

4) He that believes not the Son shall not see __________
A. life
B. death
C. judgment

5) Those who have been __________ into Christ have put on Christ.
A. voted
B. baptized
C. sprinkled

6) Christians walk by faith, not by sight.
A. True
B. False

7) The meaning of faith is always exactly the same.
A. True
B. False

8) It is possible to please God without faith.
A. True
B. False

9) Faith in God is nothing more than blind trust.
A. True
B. False

10) Christ saves all those who obey Him.
A. True
B. False

Date:
Name:
Address:

Phone:

WHAT CAN YOU DO? You can accept the authority of Christ by doing what He commanded (Matthew 7:21; John 14:15; 15:10-14; Luke 6:46). Notice the pattern for becoming a Christian as revealed in the Scriptures. The Gospel was heard, resulting in faith (Romans 10:17). Repentance of (turning away from) sin (Acts 17:30) and confession of Jesus as the Son of God followed (Romans 10:10). Believers were baptized INTO Christ for the remission (forgiveness) of sins (See Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:20-21), and added to His church (Acts 2:47). Christians were taught to be faithful even to the point of death (Revelation 2:10).

WE WELCOME YOU Following the instructions of the Scriptures, members of Christ’s body [collectively called the “churches of Christ” Romans 16:16),] assemble as congregations for worship, encouragement, and Bible study. The congregation in your community welcomes you to investigate the Bible with us. With a spirit of brotherly love we would seek to reconcile any differences by following the Bible ONLY. We recognize the Bible as God’s inspired word, the ONLY reliable standard of faith and practice. We desire the unity for which Christ prayed and which the Bible emphasizes in the expression, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Together we seek to maintain “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

A friendly welcome awaits you. We do not wish to embarrass you in any way. You will not be asked for contributions. We assemble for Bible study and worship each Sunday morning and we welcome you to meet with us. We would be happy to talk to you about your questions and we want to be of encouragement.

If you have any comments or questions --- or would like the location and contact names of a congregation of the church belonging to Jesus Christ near you, please e-mail me at BibleTruths@hotmail.com or call 253-396-0290. Thanks Dennis Crawford, editor.

Lesson 9 - Repentance

2008-10-03T17:19:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is Repentance?
In New Testament Scripture the Greek word translated "repentance" denotes basically a change of mind such as leads to a change in one's actions (a change for the better). The same basic idea, although expressed in different terms, is found in the Old Testament as well. Repentance, it should further be noted, is attributed to both God and man but, as we shall see, with very significant differences.

God's Repentance
In God's case, repentance involves a change of mind, and consequent change of action, with regard to some person (or persons) who has changed toward His will. We read, for example, of God's repentance as a result of King Saul's disobedience. Scripture says: "Then came the word of the LORD unto Samuel, saying, ‘it repenteth Me that I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following Me, and hath not performed My commandments’ " (I Samuel 15:10-11). It is thus evident that in repenting God changed His mind with regard to Saul's kingship. But is it equally clear that His repentance also involved a change of action. For he promptly sent Samuel to anoint David King in place of Saul (I Samuel 15:26; 16:1-13).

Man's Repentance
Since man is a sinner, repentance in his case commonly involves a change of mind with regard to sin, accompanied by a genuine sorrow for past sins and a turning from sin to God for forgiveness and reformation of life. Note: Repentance is sometimes indicated where the word itself does not occur, the idea being expressed or implied in other terms.

Luke, for instance, relates that as a result of the gospel being preached in Antioch, "a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord" (Acts 11:21). Here repentance is implied in the statement that these believers "turned unto the Lord." This same idea of turning to God is a theme also common to Jewish Scriptures. Isaiah, for example, said: "Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man His thoughts: and let Him return unto the LORD, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon" (Isaiah 55:7).

Regret is Not Repentance
This fact is clearly demonstrated in the sordid episode of Judas' betrayal of Christ. Matthew writes: "Then Judas, which had betrayed Him, when he say that He was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed innocent blood... And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went out and hanged himself" (Matthew 27:3-5).

Our text says Judas, when he saw that Christ was condemned, "repented himself." In this instance, however, "repented himself" translates a Greek word which denotes regret or remorse. Judas acknowledged his sin and regretted what he had done. But he did not exhibit the repentance which God requires--i.e., he did not change his mind so as to turn from sin to God for pardon and redirection of his life. Instead, he remorsefully went out and hanged himself.

Godly Sorrow and Repentance
Godly sorrow and repentance are not identical responses. They are, however, closely related. The repentance which God requires of the sinner must be accompanied by a godly sorrow for his sins. Paul illustrates this vital connection in his second letter to the Corinthian church. He had earlier rebuked the Corinthians for the immorality tolerated in their congregation and they had now amended their ways. Hence he writes: "now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that you were made sorry unto repentance; for you were made sorry after a godly sort... For godly sorrow works repentance unto salvation, a repentance which brings no regret: but the sorrow of the world works death" (II Corinthians 7:9-10, ASV).

It is important to note that the Apostle here describes two types of sorrow. There is a type of sorrow that issues in repentance and thus leads to life. This is godly sorrow. But there is another type of sorrow which plunges one into remorse and leads only to death. This is the sorrow of the world.

Repentance and Forgiveness
One cannot be saved without receiving forgiveness of sins. Neither can one be forgiven without repenting of his sins. For these reasons Christ throughout His ministry continually urged men to repent. For example, speaking of certain individuals who had calamitously lost their lives, He warned: "think you that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, Nay: but except you repent, you shall all likewise perish" (Luke 13:4-5).

Finally, just before His ascension, Christ instructed His disciples "that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem" (Luke 24:47). This commission began to be carried out when in Jerusalem on the next Pentecost Peter preached Christ to the Jews. "Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins..." (Acts 2:37-38).

Repentance --- a Must for All Men
In as much as all men are sinners, all are called upon to repent of their sins. In Paul's words, God "now commands all men everywhere to repent" (Acts 17:30). Moreover, God in His mercy has gone to great lengths, even to withholding promised judgment to the last possible moment, in order to give men every opportunity to repent. Hence Peter insists: "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (II Peter 3:9).

Repentance and Reformation of Life
The gist of Paul's plea to Jews and Gentiles alike is "that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance" (Acts 26:20). When a person repents of his sins and is baptized for the forgiveness of those sins, he becomes "a new creature" in Christ (II Corinthians 5:17), committed thereafter to conduct worthy of or consistent with repentance.

This requires, the apostle says, "That ye put off concerning the former conversation [i.e., manner of life] the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that you put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness" (Ephesians 4:22-24). He further urges: "be therefore steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, for as much as you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord" (I Corinthians 15:58).

Consequences of Impenitence
To those who think they can continue in disobedience and yet somehow escape the judgment of God, Paul says: "Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth you to repentance? But after your hardness and impenitent heart treasures up unto yourself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God" (Romans 2:4-5). God's goodness is thus cited as an incentive to repentance. Let no one, however, regard His forbearance as an indication that those who persist in disobedience will go unpunished. "But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil..." (Romans 2:8-9).

Summary Truths
Sin has alienated men from God and made them liable to the penalty of death and everlasting ruin. But Christ died for us, bearing our punishment, that we thereby might be pardoned of our sins, reconciled to God, and made heirs of eternal life. This marvelous grace nevertheless cannot be ours without repentance. But when the sinner repents and turns from sin to God, then God rejoices to receive and bless him, like the repentant prodigal welcomed home by his loving father (Luke 15:11-32).

Lesson 9 - Repentance - Quiz 1
Fill in the Blanks
1. In Antioch a great number _________ , and __________ unto the Lord. (Acts 11:21)

2. Godly ____________ works ____________ unto salvation. (II Corinthians 7:9-10)

3. Peter said, Repent, and be ___________ every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for ____________ the of sins. (Acts 2:38)

4. God now ____________ all men everywhere to ___________. (Acts 17:30)

5. Jesus said, except you __________, you shall all likewise ____________. (Luke 13:4-5)

Lesson 9 - Repentance - Quiz 2
Underline the answer:
1) Repentance involves a change of mind.
A. True
B. False

2) Godly sorrow and repentance are identical.
A. True
B. False

3) Regret is not repentance.
A. True
B. False

4) Repentance is attributed to both God and man.
A. True
B. False

5) God pardons men prior to repentance and baptism.
A. True
B. False

6) Christ told His disciples to preach repentance and remission of sins, beginning at ______________.
A. Samaria
B. Jerusalem
C. Antioch

7) The ________________ of God leads men to repentance.
A. partiality
B. courage
C. goodness

8) ____________ wrote: Let the wicked forsake his way.
A. Isaiah
B. Luke
C. Peter

9) The sorrow of the world works ______________.
A. repentance
B. salvation
C. death

10) God is _____________, not willing that any should perish.
A. slack
B. longsuffering
C. compromising

Name: Date:
Address:

Phone:

WHAT CAN YOU DO? You can accept the authority of Christ by doing what He commanded (Matthew 7:21; John 14:15; 15:10-14; Luke 6:46). Notice the pattern for becoming a Christian as revealed in the Scriptures. The Gospel was heard, resulting in faith (Romans 10:17). Repentance of (turning away from) sin (Acts 17:30) and confession of Jesus as the Son of God followed (Romans 10:10). Believers were baptized INTO Christ for the remission (forgiveness) of sins (See Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:20-21), and added to His church (Acts 2:47). Christians were taught to be faithful even to the point of death (Revelation 2:10).

WE WELCOME YOU Following the instructions of the Scriptures, members of Christ’s body [collectively called the “churches of Christ” Romans 16:16),] assemble as congregations for worship, encouragement, and Bible study. The congregation in your community welcomes you to investigate the Bible with us. With a spirit of brotherly love we would seek to reconcile any differences by following the Bible ONLY. We recognize the Bible as God’s inspired word, the ONLY reliable standard of faith and practice. We desire the unity for which Christ prayed and which the Bible emphasizes in the expression, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Together we seek to maintain “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

A friendly welcome awaits you. We do not wish to embarrass you in any way. You will not be asked for contributions. We assemble for Bible study and worship each Sunday morning and we welcome you to meet with us. We would be happy to talk to you about your questions and we want to be of encouragement.

If you have any comments or questions --- or would like the location and contact names of a congregation of the church belonging to Jesus Christ near you, please e-mail me at BibleTruths@hotmail.com or call 253-396-0290. Thanks Dennis Crawford, editor.

Lesson 10 - Confession

2008-10-03T05:29:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is Confession?
According to the scriptures, confession is a significant factor in one's attaining and sustaining a saving relationship to God. What God has said on the subject must therefore be of vital interest to everyone truly concerned with the eternal welfare of himself and others.

In the New Testament, the Greek word commonly translated "confess" means literally to say the same thing as another, and thus to agree, acknowledge, or confess. This term and similar words are employed in a variety of contexts, sometimes conveying such ideas as thanks, praise, or promise. But predominately the idea is that of confession.

Sometimes it is sins that are confessed. We are informed, for instance, that many people went out to hear John the Baptist, "And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins" (Matthew 3:6). And the Apostle John assures his Christian readers: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (I John 1:9). More often, however, it is confession of faith which is in view. That will be the focus of the remainder of this lesson.

Peter's Confession
Jesus asked His disciples: "But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou are the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 16:15-17).

This is the confession of faith which God requires of all men. He has not, however, required it without first providing us with an adequate basis, and strong incentive, for making that confession. He has graciously given us the testimony of His word. John accordingly writes: "If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which He hath testified of His Son. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made Him a liar: because he believeth not the record that God gave of His Son. And this is the record, that God hath given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life" (I John 5:9-12). John further emphasizes the vital role of this confession in one's relation to God when he says: "Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God" (I John 4:15).

Confession and Salvation
As with faith and repentance, God has also made confession a condition upon which he bestows the gift of salvation. Paul thus remarks: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation" (Romans 10:9-10).

Public Confession of Christ
It is not enough to acknowledge Christ in one's heart, or simply to privately confess Him to God. One must publicly confess his faith in Christ. In Christ's own words: "Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 10:32-33).

Confession and Commitment
It should be noted that the sort of confession demanded by Christ involves not merely a formal admission of His identity, but also a commitment to His cause. Hence He says: "Not every one that saith unto Me Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 7:21). Paul also indicates the commitment which one's confession requires when he says: "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father by Him" (Colossians 3:17).

Costliness of Confession
Confession of one's faith in Christ can sometimes be costly in terms of social position, personal relationships, or worldly possessions--a cost which many regrettably have been unwilling to bear. We read, for example, that during Jesus' personal ministry many of the Jewish rulers also "... believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God" (John 12:42-43).

On the other hand, many, like Stephen, James, Peter and Paul, have confessed Christ even at the cost of their lives. Eusebius, the early church historian, reports, that when the Roman governor ordered Polycarp to renounce Christ or be put to death, the aged disciple steadfastly refused, saying, "For eighty-six yeas have I been His servant, and He has never done me wrong: how can I blaspheme my King who saved me?"

Confession and Faithfulness
As we have seen, confession, if it amounts to more than a mere repetition of words, must involve a commitment to Christ. That commitment, moreover, demands fidelity to His service. "And he," says Christ, "that taketh not his cross, and followeth after Me, is not worthy of Me" (Matthew 10:38). Paul accordingly urges Timothy to "... follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, where unto thou art called, and hast professed a good profession (i.e., confessed a good confession, ASV) before many witness" (I Timothy 6:11-12). Having publicly confessed his faith in Christ, Timothy was to be committed to a life consistent with his confession. Jesus says: "... be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life" (Revelation 2:10).

All Men Shall Confess Christ
Scripture teaches that sooner or later every souls shall acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord. One may freely confess Him in this life with joy and the assurance of eternal bliss, or on shall be compelled to confess His Lordship at the judgment with sorrow and the certainty of everlasting woe.

Christ came and died on the cross for the sins of all men. "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:9-11). We further read: "For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God" (Romans 14:11, cf. Isaiah 45:23).

Summary Truths
When one publicly declares his unqualified confidence in Christ and His claims, he has made the good confession which God requires. Confession must then be followed by that course of actions, beginning with baptism, which conforms one's entire life to God's will. And, finally, to everyone who remains faithful to his confession, Christ promises; “I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before His angels" (Revelation 3:5).
Lesson 10 - Confession - Quiz 1Fill in the Blanks

Matthew 16:15-17

I John 5:9-12

I John 4:15

Romans 10:9-10

Romans 14:11

Lesson 10 - Confession - Quiz 2Click on the correct answer
1) To confess means literally to say the same thing as another.
A. True
B. False

2) One need not confess Christ publicly.
A. True
B. False

3) Confession is the only condition for receiving salvation.
A. True
B. False

4) It can be very costly to confess Christ.
A. True
B. False

5) Fidelity to one’s confession is unimportant.
A. True
B. False

6) Jesus says: every __________ shall bow to me.
A. back
B. head
C. knee

7) God has given Jesus a name which is __________ every name.
A. like
B. above
C. under

8) He that bath the __________ hath life.
A. law
B. Son
C. prophets

9) Jesus says: whosoever shall ___________ me before men, him will I confess also before my Father.
A. deny
B. ignore
C. confess

10) Many of the Jewish rulers did not confess Christ because of the _________
A. Pharisees
B. Sadduccees
C. Romans

Lesson 11 - Baptism

2008-10-03T05:11:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is Baptism?
The word "baptize" is essentially a transliteration of the Greek term which, according to virtually all lexicons, means to dip or immerse. It should also be pointed out that the word may be used in either a figurative or a literal sense.

The element in which someone is baptized or immersed must in each case be determined by the context or by comparing related passages of scripture. Christ commanded His disciples to be baptized in water. It is this baptism (i.e., Christian baptism) that is the subject of this lesson.

The Great Commission
A short while before His ascension, Christ, in what is commonly called “The Great Commission”, instructed His apostles to baptize those who became His disciples. He commanded: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in [i.e., into] the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. . ." (Matthew 28:19-20).

According to this scripture, when the disciple of Christ is baptized, he is brought into the possession of and into union with the Godhead--Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. When therefore the disciple is "baptized into Christ" (Galatians 3:27), he becomes a partaker of "the divine nature" (II Peter 1:4), privileged to share in "the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost ..." (II Corinthians 13:14).

Baptism in Water
It is clear that water is the element of Christian baptism. Scripture relates, for instance, that Philip the evangelist preached Christ to the Ethopian eunuch. "And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, if thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ in the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him" (Acts 8:36-38).

Similarly, when Cornelius and his household believed the gospel, Peter asked: "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord ..." (Acts 10:47-48).

Baptism is Immersion
In his letter to the Romans Paul writes: "Know ye not, that so many of you as were baptized in to Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection" (Romans 6:3-5).

Notice the striking symbolism here. According to the figure, the "old man" with his sinful ways is buried beneath the water and a "new man" emerges from the water to live a new life in Christ. Moreover, there is in this operation a likeness to the burial and resurrection of Christ. "Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead" (Colossians 2:12). Surely it must be evident that only immersion corresponds with the symbolism of these passages. There is nothing in either sprinkling of pouring which can be likened to a burial and resurrection. Immersion in water is uniformly the practice set forth in the New Testament Scriptures.

Faith and Baptism
Like repentance, valid baptism is an expression of faith in Christ We are told, for example, that when Peter first preached Christ to the Jews, "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls" (Acts 2:41). Luke also reports that Paul preached Christ in Corinth and that "... many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized" (Acts 18:8).

Again, we read of Philip preaching to the Samaritans. "But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women" (Acts 8:12). It is thus evident from these passages, as well as others, that faith is a prerequisite to scriptural baptism. It must be concluded, therefore, that infants are not valid candidates for baptism inasmuch as they are incapable of believing. Accordingly Philip, the record says, baptized men and women--i.e., only individuals capable of believing.

Baptism and Remission of Sins
One cannot be saved without receiving the remission or forgiveness of sins. God, moreover, has made baptism a condition for the bestowal of foregiveness--i.e., God forgives one of his sins when he in obedient faith submits to the ordinance of baptism. Thus, for example, when the believing Jews on Pentecost asked Peter what they must do to be saved, he replied: "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call" (Acts 2:38-39).

The account of Paul's conversion confirms the place of baptism in forgiveness. When he had entered Damascus believing in Christ and had received his sight, he was instructed: "And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord" (Acts 22:16). There is of course no suggestion that the water itself removed Paul's sins. It is simply that when he submitted to the "washing" of baptism, God cleansed him of his sins. And so it is with everyone who in faith is baptized into Christ.

Baptism and a Good Conscience
An evil conscience (i.e., a sense of guilt) is characteristic of the sinner. The procurement of a good conscience is therefore one of his great needs. Such a guilt-free conscience, according to Peter, is acquired when one is baptized. Having first spoken of Noah and his family being saved by water, he then says: "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God). . ." (I Peter 3:21).

God has promised that He will forgive one's sins when one is baptized. Hence when the believing sinner, mindful of the promise, is baptized, he has a sense of forgiveness and freedom from guilt--i.e., he has the answer of a good conscience toward God who has pardoned him.

Baptism and the New Birth
Jesus teaches that one must be born again in order to enter the kingdom of God (John 3:3). He goes on to say: "Expect a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God" (John 3:5). It is, then, a spiritual new birth which is in view here. And it takes place when one is baptized into Christ. "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" (II Corinthians 5:17). This union with Christ thus calls for a new outlook, a new moral life, a change from mere self-interest to devoted Christian service.

Summary Truths
Baptism is the Divinely appointed ordinance by which on enters into Christ through whom only there is life everlasting and all heavenly blessings. To disregard this ordinance is to deny the force of Jesus' words and jeopardize one's soul. For Jesus commanded: "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned" (Mark 16:15-16).
Lesson 11 - Baptism - Quiz 1Fill in the Blanks

Acts 8:38

Acts 2:41

Acts 18:8

arise, and be baptized, and _______ ________thy _______

Acts 22:16

II Corinthians 5:17

Lesson 11 - Baptism - Quiz 2Underline the correct answer
1) Scripturally speaking, baptism is _______________.
A. sprinkling
B. immersion
C. pouring

2) Peter says: __________ and be baptized every one of you. . . for the remission of sins.
A. Repent
B. Rejoice
C. Recollect

3) __________ preached Christ to the Ethiopian eunuch.
A. Paul
B. Philip
C. Peter

4) According to Peter, “even baptism doth also now ___________ us”
A. help
B. hinder
C. save

5) One must be born __________ to enter the kingdom of heaven.
A. once
B. again
C. twice

6) To baptize means to dip or immerse.
A. True
B. False

7) Christ did not command immersion in water.
A. True
B. False

8) Baptism is likened to a burial and a resurrection.
A. True
B. False

9) There is no connection between baptism and a good conscience.
A. True
B. False

10) Jesus promised that one who believes and is baptized shall be saved.
A. True
B. False

Lesson 12 - Steadfastness

2008-10-02T21:50:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
Our Responsibility to Christ
Christ says: "no man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God" (Luke 9: 62). In view of all that Christ has done for us, we are deeply obligated to "put our hand to the plow" and steadfastly follow him.

Paul's words of reminder therefore are always timely: "wherefore we labor, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him... He died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them, and rose again" (2 Corinthians 5:9, 15). The apostle further writes "as ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: rooted and built-up in him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with Thanksgiving" (Colossians 2:6)

Steadfastness in Faith
Each one of us must steadfastly maintain and nurture his faith in the Lord. Paul's admonition to Timothy is thus still just as appropriate today: "holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck" (1 Timothy 1:19).

Again we are exhorted: "take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin" (Hebrews 3: 12-13). Therefore, "let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised)" (Hebrews 10: 23).

Steadfastness in Worship
From the very beginning of Christianity, the disciples on the first in the week regularly "came together to break bread" (Acts 20:7). In their weekly assemblies "they contended steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, and breaking of bread, and prayers" (Acts 2:42).

This communal worship is vital to our spiritual growth and well-being. Hence we are urged: "and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another..." (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Nothing is more important to Christian growth than faithfully studying the Word of God. Hence Peter instructs: "wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby" (1 Peter 2:1-2). Remember, too, Jesus words: "... if ye continue in my Word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:31-32).

On the other hand, neglecting the word leads to ruinous consequences. "Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the Word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense reward; how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him" (Hebrews 2: 1-3).

Steadfastness in Prayer
The need for prayer to remain steadfast in ones calling is well illustrated in Jesus own life. The record indicates that he prayed frequently. On one occasion he "went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God" (Luke 6:12). Paul makes it clear that steadfastness in prayer is essential to successfully meeting the tests of life when he says: "wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand... praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" (Ephesians 6:13, 18).

It is equally important that one be thankful for all of the countless blessings God bestows. And that thankfulness, Paul further tells us, ought to be steadfastly expressed. He urges: "prayer without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). And here let us not overlook the reassuring words of James: "... the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 5:16).

Steadfastness in Doing Good
Scripture informs us that Jesus "... went about doing good" (Acts 10:38). If we are truly his disciples we will steadfastly follow his example. Inasmuch as we can accomplish nothing without the Lord's help, Paul's prayer for the Colossians also addresses our need today. He petitions: "that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God" (Colossians 1:10).

Since good works are essential to pleasing the Lord, Paul also exhorts: "therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, for as much as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:58). Again he writes: "and let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not" (Galatians 6:9).

Steadfastness in Resisting Temptation
Since the Christian is confronted with countless temptations, he must be constantly on guard. Peter warns: "be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring Lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8). In another place we read: "... submit yourselves therefore to God, resist the Devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you" (James 4:7-8).

Drawing near to God is crucial. For we must have his help to withstand temptation. And this, Paul promises, God will give to the humble. "Wherefore," he says, "let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it" (1 Corinthians 10:12-13). “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him" (James 1:12).

Steadfastness Leads to Hope
Success in the Christian life demands a steadfast hope in Christ. We must not allow ourselves to be "moved away from the hope of the gospel" (Colossians 1:23). “And we desire," says the writer of Hebrews, "that everyone of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: that ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises" (Hebrews 6:11-12).

Reward for Steadfastness
The rewards for steadfastness are incalculable. Jesus, for instance, promises that "he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved" (Matthew 24:13). We are further assured that God "will render to every man according to his deeds: to them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and immortality, eternal life" (Romans 2:6-7).

Summary Truths
Scripture constantly emphasizes the necessity for steadfastness in all areas of the Christian life. "Ye therefore, beloved; seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:17-18).

Lesson 12 - Steadfastness - Quiz 1
Fill in the Blanks

Colossians 2:6

Hebrews 10: 23

Hebrews 10: 25

Hebrews 2:1-3

1 Thessalonians 5:17-18

Lesson 12 - Steadfastness - Quiz 2Underline the correct answer

10)

Name Date
Address
City
phone

WHAT CAN YOU DO? You can accept the authority of Christ by doing what He commanded (Matthew 7:21; John 14:15; 15:10-14; Luke 6:46). Notice the pattern for becoming a Christian as revealed in the Scriptures. The Gospel was heard, resulting in faith (Romans 10:17). Repentance of (turning away from) sin (Acts 17:30) and confession of Jesus as the Son of God followed (Romans 10:10). Believers were baptized INTO Christ for the remission (forgiveness) of sins (See Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:20-21), and added to His church (Acts 2:47). Christians were taught to be faithful even to the point of death (Revelation 2:10).

WE WELCOME YOU Following the instructions of the Scriptures, members of Christ’s body [collectively called the “churches of Christ” Romans 16:16),] assemble as congregations for worship, encouragement, and Bible study. The congregation in your community welcomes you to investigate the Bible with us. With a spirit of brotherly love we would seek to reconcile any differences by following the Bible ONLY. We recognize the Bible as God’s inspired word, the ONLY reliable standard of faith and practice. We desire the unity for which Christ prayed and which the Bible emphasizes in the expression, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Together we seek to maintain “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

A friendly welcome awaits you. We do not wish to embarrass you in any way. You will not be asked for contributions. We assemble for Bible study and worship each Sunday morning and we welcome you to meet with us. We would be happy to talk to you about your questions and we want to be of encouragement.

If you have any comments or questions --- or would like the location and contact names of a congregation of the church belonging to Jesus Christ near you, please e-mail me at BibleTruths@hotmail.com or call 253-396-0290. Thanks Dennis Crawford, editor.

Lesson 13 - The Word of God

2008-10-02T21:49:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is the Word of God?
The word of God may be either spoken or written. On occasion it is even used as a title. Christ, for example, is sometimes called the Word of God (cf. Revelation 19:13). But usually when we speak of the word of God we think of the scriptures or the Bible. In the Bible the term "the scriptures" often refers particularly to the canonical religious writings of the Jews. After the New Testament writings were completed, however, the term generally came to denote the entire Bible, with its 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New. This collection of sacred writings was penned by at least 40 different writers over a period of about 1500 years.

The Inspiration of the Word
There are those today who would have us believe that the scriptures are simply men's ideas about God. But the Bible teaches that they originated with God. They are God's revelation to men. In Paul's words, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works" (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

The Method of Revelation
God selected certain individuals through whom He revealed His words. The writer of the Hebrew letter, for example, says: "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by the Son." (Hebrews 1:1-2). Peter adds: "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man, but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost" (2 Peter 1:20-21).

The Word Christ-Centered
Someone has said that something about Christ, either typical, prophetic or historical, can be found on virtually every page of the Bible. It is indeed true that Christ, as the Redeemer of man is the ultimate focus of all the scriptures. And it is this good news concerning Christ which God "had promised afore by His prophets in the holy scriptures" (Romans 1:2). Christ himself says: "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me" (John 5:39).

It was entirely appropriate, therefore, that when the Bereans heard the message of Christ, "they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" (Acts 17:11). And it was equally fitting for Paul to remind Timothy "that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus" (2 Timothy 3:15).

The Truth of the Word
It is "impossible for God to lie" (Hebrews 6:18) for He is "a God of truth" (Deuteronomy 32:4). We can therefore be certain of the truth of His word. Christ in fact speaks of God's word as synonymous with truth. In praying to the Father for His disciples, He says: "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth" (John 17:17).

Belief of the word of truth as we have seen, is essential to salvation. And that involves believing in Christ. Regarding this saving faith in Christ, Paul says to the Ephesians: "In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of His glory" (Ephesians 1:13-14).

The Constancy of the Word
The word of God, like God Himself is unchanging. Accordingly the Psalmist writes: "For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven" (Psalm 119:89). The word of God, Isaiah declares, is fixed in perpetuity. He says: "The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of God shall stand for ever" (Isaiah 40:8). Peter fully concurs: "For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower there of falleth away: But the word of the Lord endureth fore ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you" (1 Peter 1:24-25). This same Divine unchangeableness, we should note, is also characteristic of Christ's word. For He insists: "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away" (Matthew 24:35).

The Power of the Word
The power of God's word is expressed in various ways. The Psalmist, for instance, writes: "By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth" (Psalm 33:6). Thus, "Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God..." (Hebrews 11:3).

The power of the word, however, is not manifested only in visible or external things. "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and morrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12). With good reason, then, Paul can say, "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek" (Romans 1:16).

The Invincibility of the Word
Jesus tells us that "the scripture cannot be broken" (John 10:35). That being the case, it cannot fail to achieve its purposes. Accordingly the Lord declares: "For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereunto I sent it" (Isaiah 55:10-11).

Man's Only True Guide
Jeremiah acknowledges: "O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps" (Jeremiah 10:23). Only God can direct man's steps. And this He does through His word. Hence the Psalmist says: "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" (Psalm 119:105). He further writes: "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping them there is great reward" (Psalm 19:7-8,11).

Summary Truths
It is hardly possible to place too great importance on the need for God's word in one's life. For Jesus says: "It is written, man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4; cf. Deuteronomy 8:3). Jesus, however, has in view not simply this present life but ultimately eternal life. Thus He further remarks: "He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come unto condemnation; but is passed from death unto life" (John 5:24). "Wherefore," says James, "lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves" (James 1:21-22).

Lesson 13 - The Word of God - Quiz 1
Fill in the Blanks
1. All ___________ is given by inspiration of __________ .
(II Timothy 3:16)

2. ____________ them through the truth: thy _________ is truth.
(John 17:17)

3. Forever, O Lord, thy _________ is settled in heaven. (Psalm 119:89)

4. Thy word is a ________ unto my feet, a light unto my _______.
(Psalm 119:105)

5. Be ye __________ of the word, and not _________ only, deceiving your own selves. (James 1:21-22)

Lesson 13 - The Word of God - Quiz 2
Underline the correct answer
1) The Bible contains 66 books.
A. True
B. False

2) The Bible is not God’s revelation to man.
A. True
B. False

3) Christ says His words will pass away.
A. True
B. False

4) Man cannot live by bread alone.
A. True
B. False

5) Christ said that the scriptures testify of (talk about) him.
A. True
B. False

6) The Bible was written over a period of __________ years.
A. 300
B. 1000
C. 1500

7) Holy men of God spoke as they were moved by __________
A. angels
B. the Holy Ghost
C. men

8) The Bereans searched the scriptures ____________.
A. monthly
B. weekly
C. daily

9) The word of God endures for __________
A. a moment
B. ever
C. years

10) The worlds were framed by the __________ of God.
A. word
B. justice
C. mercy

Name Date
Address
City
phone

WHAT CAN YOU DO? You can accept the authority of Christ by doing what He commanded (Matthew 7:21; John 14:15; 15:10-14; Luke 6:46). Notice the pattern for becoming a Christian as revealed in the Scriptures. The Gospel was heard, resulting in faith (Romans 10:17). Repentance of (turning away from) sin (Acts 17:30) and confession of Jesus as the Son of God followed (Romans 10:10). Believers were baptized INTO Christ for the remission (forgiveness) of sins (See Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:20-21), and added to His church (Acts 2:47). Christians were taught to be faithful even to the point of death (Revelation 2:10).

WE WELCOME YOU Following the instructions of the Scriptures, members of Christ’s body [collectively called the “churches of Christ” Romans 16:16),] assemble as congregations for worship, encouragement, and Bible study. The congregation in your community welcomes you to investigate the Bible with us. With a spirit of brotherly love we would seek to reconcile any differences by following the Bible ONLY. We recognize the Bible as God’s inspired word, the ONLY reliable standard of faith and practice. We desire the unity for which Christ prayed and which the Bible emphasizes in the expression, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Together we seek to maintain “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

A friendly welcome awaits you. We do not wish to embarrass you in any way. You will not be asked for contributions. We assemble for Bible study and worship each Sunday morning and we welcome you to meet with us. We would be happy to talk to you about your questions and we want to be of encouragement.

If you have any comments or questions --- or would like the location and contact names of a congregation of the church belonging to Jesus Christ near you, please e-mail me at BibleTruths@hotmail.com or call 253-396-0290. Thanks Dennis Crawford, editor.

Lesson 14 - The Church

2008-10-02T21:47:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is the Church?
The word "church" is derived from a term meaning "of or belonging to the Lord." But in the New Testament it commonly translates the Greek word ekklesia which denoted "the called out," i.e., in the Christian sense, basically the community of believers called out of the world to serve Christ.

It should be noted, however, that even the word "church" bears slightly differing shades of meaning.

In the broadest sense, it signifies collectively all Christians of every locality, i.e., the church universal. Paul uses the word in this sense when he says: "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it" (Ephesians 5:25).

Sometimes "the church" signifies the community of believers living in a particular locality. Thus, for example, the apostle writes "Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints. . ." (I Corinthians 1:2).

At other times, the term refers to the assembly of Christians gathered for worship. Such assemblies are what Paul has in view when he commands: "Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. . . for it is a shame for women to speak in the church" (I Corinthians 14:34-35; cf. I Timothy 2:11-12).

The Promise of the Church
When Jesus asked His disciples about His identity, Peter responded, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:16-18).

The Establishment of the Church
It is evident that when Jesus made the foregoing statement He had not yet established His church, but had only promised to do so. The church as not established until Pentecost following Jesus' ascension. On that occasion Peter first proclaimed the gospel of Christ and the terms of admission to the church. "Then they that gladly received His word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. . . . And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved" (Acts 2:41, 47).

The Church is the House of God
In his first letter to Timothy, Paul says: "These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly: But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth" (I Timothy 3:14-15). When the apostle speaks of the church as the house of God, he does not refer to a physical or material building. It is rather, as Peter says, "a spiritual house" (I Peter 2:5).

In other words, the house of God is equivalent to "the household of faith" (Galatians 6:10; cf. Ephesians 2:19), i.e., the family or children of God by faith. Accordingly Paul writes: "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ" (Galatians 3:26-27). To be baptized into Christ is to become a member of the church or house of God. Moreover, this house is also "... His own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end" (Hebrews 3:6).

The Church is the Body of Christ
God, Paul tells us, has given Christ a position of preeminence, "And hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is His body, the fullness of Him that filleth all in all" (Ephesians 1:22-23). Again we read: "And He is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence" (Colossians 1:18). "Therefore. . . the church is subject unto Christ. . ." (Ephesians 5:24). And being thus subject to Him, every member of the church is obligated to bring "into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ" (II Corinthians 10:5).

The Uniqueness of the Church
There is only one church authorized in the New Testament. For the church, as we have seen, is the spiritual body of Christ and there is only one such body. Paul accordingly reminds the Ephesians: "There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all. . ." (Ephesians 4:4-6).

While, however, there is only one body, that body is made up of many members. "For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another" (Romans 12:4-5). The apostle additionally remarks: "For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of the one body, being many, are one body; so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body. . ." (I Corinthians 12:12-13).

Moreover, it is vital that every member recognize this oneness, "That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it: or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it" (I Corinthians 12:25-26). We further read: "And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body. . ." (Colossians 3:15).

Offices in the Church
In the early church there were special offices, such as that of apostles and prophets, which were not limited to one locality but served the church at large. On the other hand, in each individual congregation there was a plurality of elders (or bishops) and deacons who carried on the affairs of the local church.

Thus, for example, when Paul wrote to the Philippian church, he addressed the letter to "all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons" (Philippians 1:1). Those appointed to serve as bishops and deacons must be men of ability and high moral character, leading exemplary lives (see I Timothy 3:1-10; cf. Titus 1:5-9).

The Work of the Church
As "the pillar and ground of the truth" (I Timothy 3:15), the church has Divinely ordained work to do. Chief among its functions are the following:
Developing its members, i.e., "... the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God. . ." (Ephesians 4:12-13).

Caring for its needy: "... distributing to the necessity of the saints; given to hospitality" (Romans 12:13). This includes provision for widows and orphans (James 1:27).

Continuing the proclamation of the gospel to the world: "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned" (Mark 16:15-16).

Summary Truths
Comprised of the "called out" believers in Christ, the church is the spiritual body of Christ, of which He is Head and Savior (Ephesians 5:23). And, further, it is the household of God (Ephesians 2:19), the glorious fruition of His redeeming grace. "Unto Him," therefore, "be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen" (Ephesians 3:21).

Lesson 14 - The Church - Quiz 1
Fill in the Blanks
1. Christ loved the _______ , and _________ himself for it. (Ephesians 5:25)

2. Let your _________ keep silence in the __________.
(I Corinthians 14:34)

3. So we, being _________ , are one ___________ in Christ. (Romans 12:4-5)

4. The church is the pillar and ___________ of the ___________. (I Timothy 3:14-15)

5. The work of the church includes: "distributing to the _________ of the saints," and being ____________ to hospitality." (Romans 12:13)

Lesson 14- The Church - Quiz 2
Underline the correct answer
1) Jesus said, Upon this __________ I will build my church.

2) The __________ is called the house of God.

3) Christ is the __________ of His body, the church.

4) In Scripture, the church is a __________ house.

5) The office of __________ was not limited to one locality.

6) The Greek word “ekklesia” denotes “the called out.”

7) The church is both local and universal.

8) The church was established before Jesus’ ascension.

9) Christ has only one spiritual body or church.

10) Christ did not purchase the church with his blood.

Lesson 15 - Worship

2008-10-02T21:44:00.000-07:00

by Douglas Jones
What is Worship?
It is first necessary to note that the Bible employs a number of terms translated "worship" which are variously applied to God, men, demons, idols, etc. Some of these terms denote honor or respect and therefore, depending on the circumstances, may properly be directed to either God or man. In the present study, however, our focus is upon the religious homage, reverence and services which properly belongs to God alone.

Jesus leaves absolutely no doubt that such worship is the right of none but God. When, for example, Satan tried to entice Jesus to worship him, He immediately responded: "Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve" (Matthew 4:10; cf. Deuteronomy 6:13).

The same truth is illustrated in the writings of John. For concerning the appearance of an angel to him, the Apostle writes: "I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, see thou do it not: I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God" (Revelation 19:10).

The Early Biblical Record of Worship
Man is by nature a worshipping creature. He was created to worship God, his Maker. And from the dawn of human history, as the Biblical record testifies, faithful men have worshipped their Creator in various but Divinely appointed ways.

Abel affords the first of a few illustrations. Scripture says: "And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering" (Genesis 4:4). Regarding this incident the writer of Hebrews comments: "By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts" (Hebrews 11:4).

Noah was also a man of faith and worship. "And Noah builded an altar unto the LORD, and took of every clean beast, and of every clean foul, and offered burnt offerings on the altar" (Genesis 8:20). The faithful Abraham worshipped in a similar fashion. "And Abraham said, I and the lad will go yonder and worship .... And they came to the place which God had told him of: and Abraham built and altar there?" (Genesis 22:5, 9; cf. Genesis 13:18). We further read: "And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped" (Exodus 34:8).

The Folly of Idolatry
Although man's well being is entirely dependent upon his worshipping the God for whom he was created, from ancient times many have foolishly turned from the living God to idols. In the words of Paul: "Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things ... Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever, Amen" (Romans 1:22-23, 25).

Idolatry brings moral and spiritual ruin. Hence the Psalmist says: "Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols ..." (Psalms 97:7). It is therefore with much rejoicing that Paul reminds the Thessalonians of "how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God ..." (1 Thessalonians 1:9).

It is important to note, however, that idolatry does not necessarily involve worshipping a graven image. It may take a much more subtle form. One makes an "idol" of anything to which he devotes the adoration, service or resources that are properly God's due. Thus Paul, for example, warns against "covetousness, which is idolatry" (Colossians 3:5), and pointedly rejects those "whose God is their belly" (Philippians 3:19).

Vain Worship
Idols are called "vanities" - i.e., empty things (Acts 14:15). Idol worship is indeed vain or empty worship. But as we have seen, idolatry is worship in which one turns from God. On the other hand, worship, which is purportedly directed to God, can also be vain or empty. Accordingly, to certain of His professedly religious countrymen Jesus says: "You hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoreth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me. But in vain do they worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men" (Matthew 15:7-9).

True Worship
Speaking to the woman at Jacob's well, Jesus said: "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. God is a spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth" (John 4:23-24). True worship is not a mere formality but an issue of the heart. The writer of Hebrews therefore urges: "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith ..." (Hebrews 10:22).

Public Worship
One may of course properly engage in private or family devotions. Regular, personal and family Bible reading and prayer are vitally important. They are, however, no substitute for worship in the public assembly of the church. Scripture commands: "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" (Hebrews 10:25).

In the New Testament the Lord's Day worship regularly embraces the following practices, although not necessarily in the order listed here:

The singing.

Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord

Ephesians 5:19

Colossians 3:16

The teaching

1 Corinthians 14:34; 1 Timothy 2:11-12

How is it then, brethren? When you come together, every one of you has a psalm, has a doctrine, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying ... For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints

1 Corinthians 14:26, 33

The contribution

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do you. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come

1 Corinthians 16:1-2

The communion.

And He took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave it unto them, saying, This is My body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of Me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you

Luke 22:19-20

For as often as you eat this bread, and drink this cup, you do show the Lord's death till He come

1 Corinthians 11:26

upon the first day of the week, the disciples came together to break bread .

Acts 20:7

The prayers.

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers

Acts 2:42

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, giving of thanks, be made for all men

1 Timothy 2:1

Summary Truths
Man's only true hope of life and happiness lies in worshipping his Creator in accordance with the dictates of His will. And although God has authorized various expressions of worship through the ages, the essence of what He now requires is that His people worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24). In summary, all of those that are truly set apart to God "worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh" (Philippians 3:3).

Lesson 15 - Worship - Quiz 1
Fill in the Blanks

Matthew 4:10

Hebrews 11:4

Psalms 97:7

Matthew 15:7-9

John 4:23-24

Lesson 15 - Worship - Quiz 2
Click on the correct answer

10)

Name Date
Address
City
phone

WHAT CAN YOU DO? You can accept the authority of Christ by doing what He commanded (Matthew 7:21; John 14:15; 15:10-14; Luke 6:46). Notice the pattern for becoming a Christian as revealed in the Scriptures. The Gospel was heard, resulting in faith (Romans 10:17). Repentance of (turning away from) sin (Acts 17:30) and confession of Jesus as the Son of God followed (Romans 10:10). Believers were baptized INTO Christ for the remission (forgiveness) of sins (See Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3-5; 1 Peter 3:20-21), and added to His church (Acts 2:47). Christians were taught to be faithful even to the point of death (Revelation 2:10).

WE WELCOME YOU Following the instructions of the Scriptures, members of Christ’s body [collectively called the “churches of Christ” Romans 16:16),] assemble as congregations for worship, encouragement, and Bible study. The congregation in your community welcomes you to investigate the Bible with us. With a spirit of brotherly love we would seek to reconcile any differences by following the Bible ONLY. We recognize the Bible as God’s inspired word, the ONLY reliable standard of faith and practice. We desire the unity for which Christ prayed and which the Bible emphasizes in the expression, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Together we seek to maintain “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

A friendly welcome awaits you. We do not wish to embarrass you in any way. You will not be asked for contributions. We assemble for Bible study and worship each Sunday morning and we welcome you to meet with us. We would be happy to talk to you about your questions and we want to be of encouragement.

If you have any comments or questions --- or would like the location and contact names of a congregation of the church belonging to Jesus Christ near you, please e-mail me at BibleTruths@hotmail.com or call 253-396-0290. Thanks Dennis Crawford, editor.