March series Sanctification Message 2

God calls us to a

1. Life of VICTORY

2. Life of GROWTH

3. Life of HOLINESS

Sanctification -------God calling us

God calls us to a

++1. Life of VICTORY

—Six claims about Jesus in Colossians

In Paul's letter to the Colossians, certain things are said about the all sufficiency of Jesus Christ. These statements tie in well with John's first chapter.

In Paul's letter to the Colossians, certain things are said about the all sufficiency of

Jesus Christ. These statements tie in well with John's first chapter.

1 All Things Were Created in Christ

,

Colossians 1:16 KJV 1900

16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

,

Colossians 1:17 KJV 1900

17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

All things were created by Jesus and for Jesus (see also ).

John 1:13 KJV 1900

13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

All things were created by Jesus and for Jesus (see also ).

He is before all things and in him all things consist. Some think of Christ as the greatest created being. But He is greater by far than that.

He is before all things and in him all things consist.

Some think of Christ as the greatest created

being. But He is greater by far than that."For by him all things were created, in the heavens and on the earth, things visible and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things are held together" (,).

being. But He is greater by far than that.

"For by him all things were created, in the heavens and on the earth, things visible and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things are held together" (,).

"For by him all things were created, in the heavens and on the earth, things visible

and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all

Colossians 1:16 KJV 1900

16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

things have been created through him, and for him. He is before all things, and in him

Colossians 1:17 KJV 1900

17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

all things are held together" (,).

2 All the Fulness of the Divinity Dwells in Him

Colossians 1:19 KJV 1900

19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;

He is the image, of the invisible God ().

Colossians 1:15 KJV 1900

15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

He is this not by halves, but in "all the fulness" .

Some think of Christ as a hybrid being, half man, half God.

But He was "the fulness of God in bodily form" .

Jesus was as human as any man.

He was as divine as God his Father.

"For all the fullness was pleased to dwell in him...For in him all the fullness of the Divinity dwells bodily, and in him you are made full..." (, ).

"For all the fullness was pleased to dwell in him...For in him all the fullness of the

Colossians 1:19 KJV 1900

19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;

Divinity dwells bodily, and in him you are made full..." (, ).

Colossians 2:9 KJV 1900

9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.

Divinity dwells bodily, and in him you are made full..." (, ).

3 Every Human Being Can Be Made Complete in Christ

Colossians 1:27–29 KJV 1900

27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: 28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: 29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

Paul proclaimed Christ to "every man", and his goal was to present every man complete in Christ.

complete in Christ.

The work of Christ is applicable to every man.

The work of Christ is not limited and his gospel, "the hope of glory", is for every man.

That is why the gospel was preached "in all the world... to every creature under heaven"

(,).

Colossians 1:6 KJV 1900

6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:

Colossians 1:23 KJV 1900

23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

"Christ in you, the hope of glory, whom we proclaim, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus..." (Colossians 1:2728).

"Christ in you, the hope of glory, whom we proclaim, admonishing every man and

teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ

Jesus..." (Colossians 1:2728).

Colossians 2:3 KJV 1900

3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

"All wisdom and understanding" () and "full assurance of understanding in true knowledge" ()are available in the gospel of Christ. Christ's word lacks nothing (cf ,).

Colossians 2:23 KJV 1900

23 Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh.

"All wisdom and understanding" () and "full assurance of

2 Peter 1:3 KJV 1900

3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

2 Peter 1:4 KJV 1900

4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

Colossians 1:9 KJV 1900

9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

understanding in true knowledge" ()are available in the gospel of

Christ. Christ's word lacks nothing (cf ,).

"We don’t cease praying and making requests for you, that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding...gaining all riches of the full assurance of understanding, a true knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden" (, ).

"We don’t cease praying and making requests for you, that you may be filled with the

knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding...gaining all riches of

Colossians 1:9 KJV 1900

9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

the full assurance of understanding, a true knowledge of the mystery of God, both of

Colossians 2:23 KJV 1900

23 Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh.

the Father and of Christ, in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are

hidden" (, ).

5 All Things Are Under the Authority of Christ

Colossians 2:10 KJV 1900

10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

He is the head of all power and authority ().

He is the first born over all creation (,, ).

Colossians 1:15 KJV 1900

15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

He is the first born over all creation (,, ).

Colossians 1:18 KJV 1900

18 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.

1 Corinthians 15:20 KJV 1900

20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.

He is the head of the church ().

Colossians 1:18 KJV 1900

18 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.

He has the highest place (preeminence) in all things ().

Colossians 1:18 KJV 1900

18 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.

He is seated at the right hand of God ().

Colossians 3:1 KJV 1900

1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

He is seated at the right hand of God ().

Colossians 2:13 KJV 1900

13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

Paul makes the following promises...In Him we have redemption through His blood. the forgiveness of sins

Paul makes the following promises...

In Him we have redemption through His blood. the forgiveness of sins

().

Colossians 1:14 KJV 1900

14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

He has made you alive together with Christ, having. forgiven you all trespasses

().

Colossians 2:13 KJV 1900

13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;

Our sins alienated us from God but we are reconciled through Christ

(Colossians 1:2023).

We have our sins forgiven when we are buried with Christ (Colossians 2:1213,

cf ).

We have our sins forgiven as long as we continue in the faith and be not moved

away (, cf Ephesians1:1314).

Colossians 1:23 KJV 1900

23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

Colossians 1:13–20 KJV 1900

13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 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. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

1. When Paul first met Jesus on the road to Damascus, he did not know at that time who Jesus really was (Who are you, lord? - )

Acts 9:3–5 KJV 1900

3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: 4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

at that time who Jesus really was (Who are you, lord? - )

2. But when we come to Paul's epistle to the Colossians, we learn that Paul had come to a much fuller understanding of exactly who Jesus was!

2. But when we come to Paul's epistle to the Colossians, we learn that

Paul had come to a much fuller understanding of exactly who Jesus was!

3. In this lesson, we shall look at , and notice Paul's description of the all sufficient Christ

3. In this lesson, we shall look at ,

Colossians 1:13–20 KJV 1900

13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 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. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

and notice Paul's description of the all sufficient Christ

4. In so doing, I hope we will be impressed with the fact that Christ is certainly our ALL-SUFFICIENT and PRE-EMINENT SAVIOR, who is worthy of our love, adoration, and obedience!

4. In so doing, I hope we will be impressed with the fact that

Christ is certainly our ALL-SUFFICIENT and PRE-EMINENT SAVIOR,

who is worthy of our love, adoration, and obedience!

1. He claimed to have a kingdom, and even came into this world to proclaim the truth that He is a king -

John 18:36–37 KJV 1900

36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. 37 Pilate therefore said unto him, 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.

world to proclaim the truth that He is a king -

2. After his resurrection, He claimed the extent of His rule: authority over all heaven and earth! -

2. After his resurrection, He claimed the extent of His rule:

Matthew 28:18 KJV 1900

18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

authority over all heaven and earth! -

1. He is the ruler over the kings of the earth -

Revelation 1:5 KJV 1900

5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

2. He has made His disciples kings and priest to His God and Father -

Revelation 1:6 KJV 1900

6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

2. He has made His disciples kings and priest to His God and Father -

3. Those in Christ Jesus are in His kingdom -

Revelation 1:9 KJV 1900

9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.

3. Those in Christ Jesus are in His kingdom -

4. Those who persevere to the end will rule with Him even as He now reigns!

4. Those who persevere to the end will rule with Him even as

Revelation 2:26–27 KJV 1900

26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father.

He now reigns!

5. He is truly Lord of lords and King of kings! - ;

Revelation 17:14 KJV 1900

14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.

5. He is truly Lord of lords and King of kings! - ;

Revelation 19:16 KJV 1900

16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.

1. The word redemption means a releasing effected by payment of ransom

2. We have been released from the bondage of sin through the payment of Jesus' blood shed on the cross -

Matthew 20:28 KJV 1900

28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

payment of Jesus' blood shed on the cross -

1. Forgiveness means release from bondage or imprisonment

2. In Christ, we have forgiveness or pardon, of sins or remission of the penalty

3. As pronounced by the Angel to Joseph, you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins -

3. As pronounced by the Angel to Joseph, you shall call His name JESUS,

Matthew 1:21 KJV 1900

21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

for He will save His people from their sins -

4. A king capable of providing redemption and forgiveness from sins; truly indications of all sufficient savior!

4. A king capable of providing redemption and forgiveness from sins;

truly indications of all sufficient savior!

1. Comes from the Greek eikon {i-kone'}

2. Meaning an image, figure, likeness

1. No man has ever seen God, but Jesus has declared Him -

John 1:18 KJV 1900

18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.

2. As Jesus Himself said, He who has seen Me has seen the Father -

John 14:7–9 KJV 1900

7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. 8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. 9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?

2. As Jesus Himself said, He who has seen Me has seen the Father -

3. As expressed by the writer to the Hebrews, Jesus is:

a. The brightness of God's Glory

b. The express image of His Person -

Hebrews 1:3 KJV 1900

3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

4. As Paul wrote to the Corinthians:

a. Jesus is the image of God -

2 Corinthians 4:4 KJV 1900

4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

b. In the face of Jesus Christ is the knowledge of the glory of God -

2 Corinthians 4:6 KJV 1900

6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

5. By looking at Jesus we can see and know the Father, who is invisible!

1. It can mean the first one born (or created)

a. Some have therefore concluded from this passage that Jesus is a created being, the first of all God's creations

a. Some have therefore concluded from this passage that

Jesus is a created being, the first of all God's creations

b. For example, those led by the Watchtower Society (who call themselves Jehovah's Witnesses)

b. For example, those led by the Watchtower Society

(who call themselves Jehovah's Witnesses)

2. But it is also used in the Scriptures as a metaphor to describe one who occupies the rank and privilege of being firstborn (without literally being firstborn)

2. But it is also used in the Scriptures as a metaphor to describe

one who occupies the rank and privilege of being firstborn (without literally being firstborn)

a. Used by God in this way to refer to the nation of Israel -

Exodus 4:22 KJV 1900

22 And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the Lord, Israel is my son, even my firstborn:

a. Used by God in this way to refer to the nation of Israel -

b. Used by God in this way to refer to David, who was the youngest of eight brothers - ,

b. Used by God in this way to refer to David,

Psalm 89:20 KJV 1900

20 I have found David my servant; With my holy oil have I anointed him:

who was the youngest of eight brothers - ,

Psalm 89:27 KJV 1900

27 Also I will make him my firstborn, Higher than the kings of the earth.

who was the youngest of eight brothers - ,

3. Therefore, any interpretation of this term must be in harmony with what is taught about Christ elsewhere:

3. Therefore, any interpretation of this term must

be in harmony with what is taught about Christ elsewhere:

a. And Jesus is clearly proclaimed to be the creator of ALL things - ;

John 1:1–3 KJV 1900

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

b. It could not be stated that He is the creator of ALL things if He was a created being!

b. It could not be stated that He is the creator of

ALL things if He was a created being!

c. Which is why the JW's try to get around these passages by inserting the modifier OTHER four times in their NWT translation of !

c. Which is why the JW's try to get around these passages by

Colossians 1:16–17 KJV 1900

16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

inserting the modifier OTHER four times in their NWT translation of !

1) To let it read as written by Paul, it destroys their doctrine that Christ is a created being

2) So they must add to the Word of God

1. To stress that Jesus is pre-eminent over all creation, He has all the rights of one as IF He were a firstborn

1. To stress that Jesus is pre-eminent over all creation,

He has all the rights of one as IF He were a firstborn

2. Just as God:

a. Declared Israel to be His firstborn over the nations of the earth (though certainly not the first nation to exist)

a. Declared Israel to be His firstborn over the nations of the earth

(though certainly not the first nation to exist)

b. Declared David to be His firstborn over the kings of the earth (though certainly not the first king either)

b. Declared David to be His firstborn over the kings of the earth

(though certainly not the first king either)

c. So God has declared Jesus to be the firstborn over all creation(though He Himself was not a created being!)

c. So God has declared Jesus to be the firstborn over all creation

(though He Himself was not a created being!)

1. Wow! What a savior!

a. King

b. savior

c. image

d. firstborn

2. We will finish this Thought by looking at the last six attributes of Jesus mentioned by Paul in

Colossians 1:13–20 KJV 1900

13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 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. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

six attributes of Jesus mentioned by Paul in

3. Paul has already given us more than enough to convince us that Jesus is the Christ

1. Again, when Paul first met Jesus on the road to Damascus, he did not know at that time who Jesus really was (Who are you, lord? - )

1. Again, when Paul first met Jesus on the road to Damascus,

Acts 9:3–5 KJV 1900

3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: 4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

he did not know at that time who Jesus really was (Who are you, lord? - )

2. But when we come to Paul's epistle to the Colossians, we learn that Paul had come to a much fuller understanding of exactly who Jesus was!

2. But when we come to Paul's epistle to the Colossians,

we learn that Paul had come to a much fuller understanding of exactly who Jesus was!

3. In this lesson, we shall look at , and notice Paul's description of the all sufficient Christ

3. In this lesson, we shall look at ,

Colossians 1:13–20 KJV 1900

13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 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. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

and notice Paul's description of the all sufficient Christ

4. In so doing, I hope we will be impressed with the fact that Christ is certainly our ALL-SUFFICIENT and PRE-EMINENT SAVIOR, who is worthy of our love, adoration, and obedience

Christ is certainly our ALL-SUFFICIENT and PRE-EMINENT SAVIOR,

who is worthy of our love, adoration, and obedience

5. This morning we looked at the fact that Jesus is:

a. King of the kingdom

b. Savior of our souls

c. Image of God

d. First born over all creation

6. Now we continue to look at him being creator, sustainer, the head of the body and more...

the head of the body and more...

A. THIS AMAZING TRUTH CONCERNING JESUS IS ALSO CONFIRMED BY:

1. John in his gospel -

John 1:3 KJV 1900

3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.

2. The writer of the epistle to the Hebrews -

Hebrews 1:3 KJV 1900

3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

B. FROM THESE VERSES WE LEARN THAT WHEN THE WORLD WAS CREATED

1. Jesus was the CREATIVE AGENT by which everything came into being!

2. Everything was created FOR Him also!

C. AS THE CREATOR OF ALL THINGS

1. It only follows that He existed before anything that was created

2. Which seems to be the idea of 17a (He is before all things)

VI. THE SUSTAINER OF ALL THINGS

1. That is, in Him all things are kept in their present state

2. Their existence, order, and arrangement are continued in the present form by HIS power! -

2. Their existence, order, and arrangement are continued

Hebrews 1:3 KJV 1900

3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

in the present form by HIS power! -

1. Every created thing would fall into disorder (chaos)!

2. Or sink back into nothingness!

A. THE CHURCH IS THE BODY OF CHRIST

1. The word church comes from ekklesia {ek-klay-see'-ah}, meaning a congregation or assembly made up of people who have been called out

meaning a congregation or assembly made up of people who have been called out

2. Those called out by the gospel of Christ into His kingdom form a great assembly or congregation

2. Those called out by the gospel of Christ into

His kingdom form a great assembly or congregation

3. The term church is used in two senses:

a. Universal - the body of saved believers throughout the world

b. Local - a congregation of saved believers in one locality

4. In the context of , Paul is speaking of the church universal (though what we are about to say in the next point would be true in a local church as well)

4. In the context of , Paul is speaking of the church universal

Colossians 1:18 KJV 1900

18 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.

(though what we are about to say in the next point would be true in a local church as well)

B. AS THE HEAD, JESUS IS OVER THE CHURCH

1. As we have already seen, He has all authority in heaven and earth -

Matthew 28:18 KJV 1900

18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

1. As we have already seen, He has all authority in heaven and earth -

2. How much more so, should He hold the rank of preeminence in His Church!

3. He is the One, therefore, who controls the destiny of those in His church!

VIII. THE BEGINNING, THE FIRSTBORN FROM THE DEAD

A. THE WORD BEGINNING

1. Comes from the Greek, arche {ar-khay'}

2. Various shades of meaning include:

a. Beginning, origin

b. The person or thing that commences the first person or thing in a series, the leader

c. That by which anything begins to be, the origin

d. The first place, principality, rule, magistracy

B. REMEMBER THE USE OF THE WORD FIRSTBORN

1. It does not necessarily mean the FIRST one, but can refer to the PRE-EMINENT one

2. Jesus was not the first person to rise from the dead

3. But He is the first to rise, never to die again, and is declared elsewhere to be the FIRSTFRUITS of the resurrection - ,

3. But He is the first to rise, never to die again, and is declared elsewhere to be the

1 Corinthians 15:20 KJV 1900

20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.

1 Corinthians 15:23 KJV 1900

23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming.

FIRSTFRUITS of the resurrection - ,

4. The term firstfruits suggests the cream of the crop, i.e., that which is pre-eminent

C. THUS, IN REGARDS TO THE RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD

1. Jesus is BOTH the origin, (the beginning) and the firstborn from the dead

2. He is the active cause of the resurrection: in Christ all shall be made alive - 1 Corinthians 5:22

2. He is the active cause of the resurrection: in Christ all shall be made alive

- 1 Corinthians 5:22

3. By His own resurrection, never to die again, He is the firstborn from the dead, the firstfruits, i.e., the pre- eminent one!

3. By His own resurrection, never to die again, He is the firstborn from the dead,

the firstfruits, i.e., the pre- eminent one!

IX. THE FULLNESS OF ALL THINGS

1. We have seen that He is the image of the invisible God -

Colossians 1:15 KJV 1900

15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

2. Paul later declares that in Jesus dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily

-

Colossians 2:9 KJV 1900

9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.

-

B. JESUS IS ALSO OUR FULLNESS

1. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins -

ROMANS CHAPTER 6

Introduction:

The first five chapters of Romans has dealt with JUSTIFICATION.

Romans chapter 6 deals with SANCTIFICATION.

The word "sanctification" means "holiness" (being set apart for God's service).

This word is found in ,.

Romans 6:19 KJV 1900

19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.

This word is found in ,.

Romans 6:22 KJV 1900

22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

God has saved me from the PENALTY of sin--this is JUSTIFICATION ().

God is saving me from the POWER of sin--this is SANCTIFICATION ().

God will save me from the PRESENCE of sin when my salvation is completed--this is GLORIFICATION ().

Thus deals with these crucial questions: How shall I live the Christian life?

How can I have victory and dominion over sin?

How can I live a life that is set apart for the service of the Lord Jesus Christ?

How can I be free from the bondage of sin?

What must I do to live a life that is pleasing to God?

How to Live the Christian Life

If someone were to ask, "What must I do to be saved?" or "What must I do to be justified?"

then certainly we would want to give this person God’s answer from the Bible (compare ).

Likewise, if a believer were to ask, "What must I do to live the Christian life?" or "What must I do to walk in newness of life?"

Likewise, if a believer were to ask, "What must I do to live the Christian life?"

or "What must I do to walk in newness of life?"

we should be able to give clear answers from God’s Word.

The answers are found in Romans chapter 6.

The tragedy is that so many Christians fail to understand God’s principles of victory and holiness.

Instead of following God’s principles they follow various fleshly schemes and carnal methods.

They try self improvement techniques.

They try self discipline techniques.

They try confession of sin (which is good and right, see ) but the confession does not seem to stop the sinning and they fall into the sin-confess-sin-confess-sin-confess cycle (constantly confessing their sins but never able to forsake their sins).

They try confession of sin (which is good and right, see )

1 John 1:8–10 KJV 1900

8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

1 John 1:8–10 KJV 1900

8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

but the confession does not seem to stop the sinning and they fall into the

sin-confess-sin-confess-sin-confess cycle (constantly confessing their sins but never able to forsake their sins).

They struggle, they work at it, they strive to do better, etc. but it is ever the same old story--DEFEAT!

Paul describes it well in :

Romans 7:14–18 KJV 1900

14 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. 16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. 17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.

The things that I want to do I don’t do and the things that I hate, those things I do!

I desire to do God’s will but I cannot perform that which is right!

The harder I try the more I seem to fail!

Let’s briefly survey the chapter to see what deals with:

v.1-not continuing in sin; v.2-not living in sin;

v.4-walking in newness of life;

v.6-not serving sin (being a slave to it);

v.10-11-living unto God;

v.12-not letting sin rule over us;

v.13-serving God with our bodily members;

v.14-not being under the dominion of sin; verses 19 and 22-holiness.

Yes, these verses speak of the Christian life, our relationship to sin, how to have victory, etc.

What must I do to live a holy life?

Let’s search Romans chapter 6 for commands. It is interesting that the first real command is not found until verse 11--"RECKON".

Let’s search Romans chapter 6 for commands.

It is interesting that the first real command is not found until verse 11--"RECKON".

The emphasis in these verses is not upon DOING but upon KNOWING (See ,,,; ).

To have victory there are certain things which I need TO KNOW!

It’s not that I need to DO SOMETHING, but I need to KNOW SOMETHING!

The three key words in are these:

1) KNOW (v.3,6,9);

These facts center upon the death and resurrection of Christ (the facts of justification centered upon the very same gospel facts also--).

These facts center upon what Christ has already accomplished by His death and resurrection (His FINISHED WORK).

The emphasis is not upon what I do but upon what Christ has already done!

The emphasis is not upon

what I do

but upon what Christ has already done!

Faith is the key!

Faith fixes itself upon the facts of God’s Word and counts them as true!

Faith says "Amen" to the facts of God’s Word. Faith says, "Yes it is true.

I am dead to sin and I am living unto God! I rejoice in this fact!" (compare verse 11).

As a new creature in Christ he realizes that all that he has is to be presented to the service of the King of Kings!

(Scripture Portion: )

The title of this study might well be called,

‘Every Christian’s Greatest Need’, for there is no greater need today than that every real Christian should be obedient to the command found in , which indicates the necessity of a Spirit-filled life; it is not optional, for it is God’s command. Notice that:-

‘Every Christian’s Greatest Need’,

Ephesians 5:18 KJV 1900

18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

Ephesians 5:18 KJV 1900

18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

for there is no greater need today than that every real Christian should be obedient to the command found in ,

which indicates the necessity of a Spirit-filled life; it is not optional, for it is God’s command. Notice that:-

To be filled with the Holy Spirit is the CHRISTIAN’s greatest need.

The subject has no reference to the person who is not a Christian.

To be filled with the Holy Spirit is EVERY Christian’s need. It is the privilege and responsibility of every believer to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

To be filled with the Holy Spirit is EVERY Christian’s need.

It is the privilege and responsibility of every believer to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

To be filled with the Holy Spirit is every Christian’s NEED.

It is not a luxury but a necessity for all.

To be filled with the Holy Spirit is every Christian’s GREATEST need.

Just as the greatest need of the lost is to be saved, so the greatest need of the saved person is to be filled with the Holy Spirit.It will save us from very much confusion in connection with this subject if we lay hold of the simple but fundamental fact that:

Just as the greatest need of the lost is to be saved,

so the greatest need of the saved person is to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

It will save us from very much confusion in connection with this subject if we lay hold of the simple but fundamental fact that:

It is one thing to have the Holy Spirit indwelling the life; it is quite another thing to have Him filling and controlling the life.

it is quite another thing to have Him filling and controlling the life.

Every believer is indwelt by the Holy Spirit - look up ;

Romans 8:9 KJV 1900

9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

; ; ; every Christian is sealed with the Holy Spirit

1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV 1900

16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV 1900

19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

1 Corinthians 12:13 KJV 1900

13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

- look up ; . But every Christian should be filled with the Holy Spirit ().

Ephesians 1:13 KJV 1900

13 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 that holy Spirit of promise,

- look up ; . But every Christian should be filled with the Holy Spirit ().

Ephesians 4:30 KJV 1900

30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

Consider the following reasons why it is necessary not only to be indwelt but filled with the Holy Spirit:-

The point is that contains a two-fold command -and the positive command is as binding as the negative command.

The point is that contains a two-fold command -

Ephesians 5:18 KJV 1900

18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

and the positive command is as binding as the negative command.

We are horrified at the thought of being drunk with wine.

Are we horrified also at the thought of not being filled with the Spirit?

What is our response to God’s command to us to be filled with the Spirit?

2. ’BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can experience an ABUNDANT LIFE.

Look up . There is a great difference between ‘life’ and ‘abundant life’ (KJV).

John 10:10 KJV 1900

10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

The Lord Jesus offers us His own life - His life of abundant joy (); abundant peace (); abundant love (); abundant power (); abundant victory () - and the only way we can experience His abundant life is by the infilling of the Holy Spirit.

John 16:33 KJV 1900

33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Matthew 28:18 KJV 1900

18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

The Lord Jesus offers us His own life - His life of abundant joy ();

John 14:27 KJV 1900

27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

abundant peace (); abundant love (); abundant power ();

John 15:11 KJV 1900

11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.

abundant victory () -

and the only way we can experience His abundant life is by the infilling of the Holy Spirit.

Before the Day of Pentecost, the disciples were ineffective, failing servants of the Lord Jesus, but after the Day of Pentecost the disciples were all filled with the Holy Spirit and they began to serve the Lord effectively ().

failing servants of the Lord Jesus, but after the Day of Pentecost the disciples

Acts 2:1–4 KJV 1900

1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

were all filled with the Holy Spirit and they began to serve the Lord effectively ().

It is only when we work in the power of His anointing that anything is accomplished for His glory.

All work rendered in the energy of the flesh or in the wisdom of man is bound to fail.

Look up ; and compare .

Acts 1:8 KJV 1900

8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Look up ; and compare .

Zechariah 4:6 KJV 1900

6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, Saith the Lord of hosts.

Here is God’s remedy for that all-too-common up-and-down experience of the Christian life.

Are you living a switchback life - rejoicing in the things of God one day, and down in the valley of defeat and humiliation the next day?

Are you living a switchback life - rejoicing in the things of God one day,

and down in the valley of defeat and humiliation the next day?

God’s remedy for this is the filling of the Holy Spirit.

While we remain Spirit-filled we shall not, cannot, backslide.

The way to experience is by !

Ephesians 5:18 KJV 1900

18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

The way to experience is by !

1 Corinthians 15:58 KJV 1900

58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

Look up . It is when the Holy Spirit fills us that we are led in the way of God’s choosing for us.

Romans 8:14 KJV 1900

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

It is when we are filled with the Spirit that we are able to acknowledge Him, and this is the one essential condition for a God-guided life. Look up .

It is when we are filled with the Spirit that we are able to acknowledge Him,

and this is the one essential condition for a God-guided life. Look up .

Proverbs 3:6 KJV 1900

6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.

and this is the one essential condition for a God-guided life. Look up .

When we are filled with the Holy Spirit we can say - look up !

God’s will for each one of His children is that they should bring forth fruit (); more fruit (); much fruit (,); and the nine-fold cluster of fruit that they are to bring forth is given in .

Galatians 5:22–23 KJV 1900

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

more fruit (); much fruit (,);

John 15:2 KJV 1900

2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

and the nine-fold cluster of fruit that they are to bring forth is given in .

We are all bringing forth either the fruit of the Spirit or the works of the flesh - look up .

Galatians 5:19–21 KJV 1900

19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

How necessary it is to be filled with the Holy Spirit if we are to be fruitful Christians to the glory of God!

- look up .

Colossians 1:10 KJV 1900

10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

7. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that the DIVINE LIFE CAN BE FULLY REPRODUCED IN US.

As Christians, our great desire should be to be like our Lord.

How can we be like Him? - only as the Holy Spirit reproduces His life within us.

How can we be like Him?

- only as the Holy Spirit reproduces His life within us.

We can never be like Him by striving, straining and struggling.

The Christian life is not imitation; it is the giving of His life to us, and the reproduction of His life within us, by the Holy Spirit; thus, the measure in which the Holy Spirit fills and floods our lives determines the measure in which we become truly Christ-like.

The Christian life is not imitation; it is the giving of His life to us,

and the reproduction of His life within us, by the Holy Spirit; thus,

the measure in which the Holy Spirit fills and floods our lives

determines the measure in which we become truly Christ-like.

(Scripture Portion: )

Our study of this searching theme places a heavy responsibility on us all.

It is easy for the preacher or teacher to ’traffic in unfelt truth’; it is equally easy for us to listen to the Word and not do what it says ().

It is easy for the preacher or teacher to ’traffic in unfelt truth’;

James 1:22–23 KJV 1900

22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:

it is equally easy for us to listen to the Word and not do what it says ().

We need to pray that we may understand the truth of God and put it into action in our lives.

God is more willing to give than we are to receive.

He has given the Holy Spirit, and if we are not filled with the Holy Spirit it is due to some form of unwillingness on our side.

This may be as follows:-

1. It may be due to an unwillingness on our part to acknowledge that we need His infilling.

How proud and carnal the human heart is! If only we would humble ourselves before God and confess that we lack this infilling, and that we must obey His command to be filled with His Spirit, then the biggest obstacle to this life of abundant usefulness would be swept away.

How proud and carnal the human heart is! If only we would humble ourselves

before God and confess that we lack this infilling, and that we must obey

His command to be filled with His Spirit, then the biggest obstacle to

this life of abundant usefulness would be swept away.

It IS humbling for a preacher, a leader in Christian work, a Christian of many years’ standing, to confess his need for the Spirit’s infilling, and yet where there is true humility and honest confession what victory is assured!

It IS humbling for a preacher, a leader in Christian work,

a Christian of many years’ standing, to confess his need for the Spirit’s infilling,

and yet where there is true humility and honest confession what victory is assured!

Should we not get alone with the Lord, now, and settle this matter before Him, by making a full confession of our need?

by making a full confession of our need?

Before we can be filled with the Holy Spirit we must be the kind of people whom God can fill with His Spirit.

We must be willing to be HOLY. We must be willing to live a life of SEPARATION from the world; not isolation but separation from everything upon which we are unable to pray His blessing.

We must be willing to be HOLY. We must be willing to live a life of SEPARATION from the world;

not isolation but separation from everything upon which we are unable to pray His blessing.

The filling of the Holy Spirit is God’s seal of His approval upon the life that is pleasing to Him.

If we are not willing to forsake things, places and habits that are displeasing to Him,how can He give us His seal of approval? Look up .

If we are not willing to forsake things, places and habits that are displeasing to Him,

Exodus 30:31–32 KJV 1900

31 And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, This shall be an holy anointing oil unto me throughout your generations. 32 Upon man’s flesh shall it not be poured, neither shall ye make any other like it, after the composition of it: it is holy, and it shall be holy unto you.

how can He give us His seal of approval? Look up .

We must be willing to be His WITNESSES (); to OBEY Him (); and to be CRUCIFIED, DEAD and BURIED - with self on the cross and Christ on the throne ().

Galatians 2:20 KJV 1900

20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

We must be willing to be His WITNESSES (); to OBEY Him ();

Acts 5:32 KJV 1900

32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

Acts 1:8 KJV 1900

8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

and to be CRUCIFIED, DEAD and BURIED - with self on the cross and Christ on the throne ().

Are we willing? Should we not get alone with the Lord now, and resolve this matter?

We must be willing not only to separate ourselves from sin, but to rid ourselves of sin.

We can be worldly without ever entering a place of worldliness!

We need to cleanse ourselves from all contamination of the body AND SPIRIT - look up - and we are to do this cleansing ourselves – by deliberately removing from our lives those things that are displeasing to the Lord and unclean in His sight, whether they are gross sins (of the flesh) or hidden sins (of the spirit).

We need to cleanse ourselves from all contamination of the body AND SPIRIT -

look up - and we are to do this cleansing ourselves

2 Corinthians 7:1 KJV 1900

1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

– by deliberately removing from our lives those things that are displeasing to the Lord and unclean in His sight,

whether they are gross sins (of the flesh) or hidden sins (of the spirit).

It is the unholy spirits that hinder the Holy Spirit from filling us.

Notice some of these unholy spirits:-

The Prayerless spirit ()

Mark 9:29 KJV 1900

29 And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.

The Immature spirit ()

Mark 9:32 KJV 1900

32 But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him.

The Self-seeking spirit ()

Mark 9:34 KJV 1900

34 But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest.

The Sectarian spirit ()

Mark 9:38 KJV 1900

38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.

The Lazy spirit ()

Luke 9:32 KJV 1900

32 But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him.

The Foolish spirit ()

Luke 9:33 KJV 1900

33 And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said.

The Intolerant spirit ()

Luke 9:54 KJV 1900

54 And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?

The Selfish spirit ()

Luke 9:59 KJV 1900

59 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.

Are some of these unholy spirits filling us?

If so, let us seek grace to face them and be cleansed from them ().

1 John 1:9 KJV 1900

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

If so, let us seek grace to face them and be cleansed from them ().

Look up .

Galatians 3:14 KJV 1900

14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

When we have acknowledged our need, accepted the implications and abandoned the sins which hinder the Spirit-filled life, then we must ASK the Lord to fill us with His Holy Spirit (), and ACCEPT HIS INFILLING BY FAITH ().

1 John 5:14–15 KJV 1900

14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

and abandoned the sins which hinder the Spirit-filled life,

Luke 11:13 KJV 1900

13 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

then we must ASK the Lord to fill us with His Holy Spirit (),

and ACCEPT HIS INFILLING BY FAITH ().

Just as at our conversion we asked the Lord Jesus to come into our hearts, and we believed that He came in (), so now we must ask the Holy Spirit to fill us and, by faith, believe that He does so.

Just as at our conversion we asked the Lord Jesus to come into our hearts,

and we believed that He came in (), so now we must

Revelation 3:20 KJV 1900

20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

and we believed that He came in (), so now we must

ask the Holy Spirit to fill us and, by faith, believe that He does so.

5. It may be due to an unwillingness on our part to adopt the means which maintain His infilling.

The secret of the abiding fulness of the Holy Spirit is found in , and is summed up in the chorus:

John 2:5 KJV 1900

5 His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

TRUST and OBEY,

For there’s no other way

To be happy in Jesus,

But to TRUST and OBEY.

How important it is for us to learn not only the secret of His filling, but of maintaining His filling!

but of maintaining His filling!

The secret is ABIDING IN CHRIST

- look up .

John 15:5 KJV 1900

5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

- look up .

(Scripture Portion: )In our previous studies we have seen that the Spirit-filled life is to be the normal experience of all believers.

John 14:15–16 KJV 1900

15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;

In our previous studies we have seen that the Spirit-filled life is to be the normal experience of all believers.

We have seen why it is absolutely necessary for a child of God to be filled with the Spirit, and we have considered the possibility of the Spirit-filled life.

We have seen why it is absolutely necessary for a child of God to be filled with the Spirit,

and we have considered the possibility of the Spirit-filled life.

Now we are to study the marks of a life that is filled with the Holy Spirit.

highly excited or full of physical strength.

The Spirit-filled life is a life of calm poise and quiet confidence ().

Isaiah 30:15 KJV 1900

15 For thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: And ye would not.

(2) To be filled with the Holy Spirit is not to reach a state of sinless

1 John 1:8 KJV 1900

8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

1 John 1:10 KJV 1900

10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

perfection or to attain a state where the old nature is eradicated (,).

1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV 1900

13 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.

(3) The Spirit-filled life is not a life free from temptation ().

2 Peter 3:18 KJV 1900

18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

(4) The Spirit-filled life is not a life where further and fuller growth is impossible or unnecessary ().

It would take too long to expound these seven lines of study fully,

but they are briefly mentioned here as a guide to individual study.

The Christian life is the life of the Lord Jesus reproduced in us by the Holy Spirit.

This means that the Spirit-filled life is a life filled with the characteristics of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.

Read through the four Gospels, and wherever you note a particular thing about His life, remember that that very thing should characterise your life if you are Spirit-filled.

Read through the four Gospels, and wherever you note a particular thing about His life,

remember that that very thing should characterise your life if you are Spirit-filled.

2. THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE ARE SEEN IN OUR LORD’S TEACHING ON THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.

This teaching is particularly emphasised in the Gospel of John, chapters 14-16.

Look up and study the following references:-

He is the Spirit of Truth (), therefore He makes us truthful.

John 14:17 KJV 1900

17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

He is the Spirit of Truth (), therefore He makes us truthful.

He is our Teacher (), therefore He gives us knowledge and wisdom.

John 14:26 KJV 1900

26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

He is our Teacher (), therefore He gives us knowledge and wisdom.

He is our Guide (), therefore He leads us in the right path.

John 16:13 KJV 1900

13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

He is our Guide (), therefore He leads us in the right path.

He glorifies the Lord Jesus (), therefore He hides us.

John 16:14 KJV 1900

14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

He glorifies the Lord Jesus (), therefore He hides us.

He reveals things to come (), making us wise concerning God’s future programme.

John 16:13 KJV 1900

13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

Compare the experience of the Apostles before Pentecost and after Pentecost.

Read through the Book of Acts at one sitting, and underline every reference to the Person and work of the Holy Spirit.

Notice particularly the characteristics of those men of whom we are definitely told that they were filled with the Holy Spirit.

(1) Peter (,);

Acts 2:4 KJV 1900

4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Acts 2:14 KJV 1900

14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:

(2) the Church ();

Acts 4:31 KJV 1900

31 And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

(2) the Church ();

(3) the first Deacons (,,);

Acts 6:3 KJV 1900

3 Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

(3) the first Deacons (,,);

Acts 6:5 KJV 1900

5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:

Acts 6:7 KJV 1900

7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

(4) Stephen (; );

Acts 6:15 KJV 1900

15 And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

(4) Stephen (; );

Acts 7:60 KJV 1900

60 And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

(5) Saul ();

Acts 9:17–18 KJV 1900

17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. 18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

(5) Saul ();

(6) Paul (,);

Acts 13:9 KJV 1900

9 Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him,

Acts 13:10 KJV 1900

10 And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?

(7) the Disciples ().

Acts 13:52 KJV 1900

52 And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost.

Galatians 5:22–23 KJV 1900

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

In this passage we have the nine-fold fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Do you want to know what a Spirit-filled life is like?

It is loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, gentle, good, trustful, meek, poised…

Compare ; .

Galatians 5:16–21 KJV 1900

16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Galatians 5:24–26 KJV 1900

24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Read this chapter right through, and particularly notice verses 19,20,21,22,25; and in chapter 6 notice verses 1,4,5,9. Here we are told how Spirit-filled wives, husbands, children, fathers, masters and servants should act.

Read this chapter right through, and particularly notice verses 19,20,21,22,25;

and in chapter 6 notice verses 1,4,5,9. Here we are told how Spirit-filled wives,

husbands, children, fathers, masters and servants should act.

For example, He is the Spirit of:-

LIFE - ; . Thus, when He fills us He will fill us with His life.

Romans 8:2 KJV 1900

2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

LIFE - ; . Thus, when He fills us He will fill us with His life.

2 Corinthians 3:6 KJV 1900

6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

HOLINESS - . Thus, when He fills us He will fill us with His holiness.

1 Peter 1:2 KJV 1900

2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

HOLINESS - . Thus, when He fills us He will fill us with His holiness.

GRACE - . Thus, when He fills us we shall be gracious.

Hebrews 10:29 KJV 1900

29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

GRACE - . Thus, when He fills us we shall be gracious.

TRUTH - . Thus, when He fills us we shall be true and truthful.

John 14:13–17 KJV 1900

13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. 15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

TRUTH - . Thus, when He fills us we shall be true and truthful.

POWER - . Thus, when He fills us we shall be men and women of power.

Zechariah 12:10 KJV 1900

10 And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, The spirit of grace and of supplications: And they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, And they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, And shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.

There are at least fourteen of these. Look up some of them and see in them beautiful characteristics of the Spirit-filled life:-

The Dove, indicating the beauty and gentleness of the Spirit’s character (; ).

Matthew 3:16 KJV 1900

16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:

The Dove, indicating the beauty and gentleness of the Spirit’s character (; ).

Matthew 10:16 KJV 1900

16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

The Seal, indicating the security of the Spirit’s grace (; ; ; ).

Ephesians 1:13 KJV 1900

13 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 that holy Spirit of promise,

Ephesians 4:30 KJV 1900

30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

The Seal, indicating the security of the Spirit’s grace (; ; ; ).

2 Timothy 2:19 KJV 1900

19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

Revelation 7:3–8 KJV 1900

3 Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. 4 And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel. 5 Of the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand. 6 Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Nepthalim were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed twelve thousand. 7 Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve thousand. 8 Of the tribe of Zabulon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve thousand.

The Oil, indicating the Spirit’s grace and the illumination of His teaching (; ; ; ).

Luke 4:18 KJV 1900

18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,

Acts 10:38 KJV 1900

38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

The Oil, indicating the Spirit’s grace and the illumination of His teaching (; ; ; ).

2 Corinthians 1:21 KJV 1900

21 Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;

1 John 2:27 KJV 1900

27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

The Fire, indicating His work of purification (; ; ).

Matthew 3:11 KJV 1900

11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:

The Fire, indicating His work of purification (; ; ).

Hebrews 12:29 KJV 1900

29 For our God is a consuming fire.

Revelation 4:5 KJV 1900

5 And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

The Wind, indicating the searching nature of His power (; ).

John 3:8 KJV 1900

8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.

The Wind, indicating the searching nature of His power (; ).

Acts 2:2 KJV 1900

2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.

The Dew, indicating the refreshing and fertilising grace of His presence (; ).

Psalm 133:3 KJV 1900

3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: For there the Lord commanded the blessing, Even life for evermore.

The Dew, indicating the refreshing and fertilising grace of His presence (; ).

Isaiah 18:4 KJV 1900

4 For so the Lord said unto me, I will take my rest, and I will consider in my dwelling place Like a clear heat upon herbs, And like a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest.

The Water, indicating His sufficiency (; ).

John 4:14 KJV 1900

14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

John 7:37–38 KJV 1900

37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

The Water, indicating His sufficiency (; ).

"Nobody ever outgrows Scripture; the Book widens and deepens with our years" – C.H. Spurgeon.

"If there is anything in my thoughts or style to commend, the credit is due to my parents for instilling in me an early love of the Scriptures.

If we abide by the principles taught in the Bible, our country will go on prospering and to prosper; but if we and our posterity neglect the instructions and authority; no man can tell how sudden a catastrophe may overwhelm us and bury all our glory in profound obscurity"

If we abide by the principles taught in the Bible, our country will go on prospering and to prosper;

but if we and our posterity neglect the instructions and authority;

no man can tell how sudden a catastrophe may overwhelm us and bury all our glory in profound obscurity"

– Daniel Webster.

Our English word Bible comes from the Greek word biblos () and biblion (diminutive form, cf. ), which means "book."

Luke 4:17 KJV 1900

17 And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written,

Matthew 1:1 KJV 1900

1 The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.

Ancient books were written upon the biblus or papyrus reed, and from this custom came the Greek word biblos and our English word "Bible" (cf. ; ; ; ; ).

Mark 12:26 KJV 1900

26 And as touching the dead, that they rise: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?

Ancient books were written upon the biblus or papyrus reed,

Luke 3:4 KJV 1900

4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

Luke 20:42 KJV 1900

42 And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,

and from this custom came the Greek word biblos and our English word "Bible"

(cf. ; ; ; ; ).

Acts 1:20 KJV 1900

20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.

Acts 7:42 KJV 1900

42 Then God turned, and gave them up to worship the host of heaven; as it is written in the book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices by the space of forty years in the wilderness?

(cf. ; ; ; ; ).

The Bible contains 39 books in the Old Testament (Covenant), which deals with the creation, the fall, the flood, the history of the nation of Israel, as well as hundreds of prophecies concerning both the first and second coming of Christ.

The Bible contains 39 books in the Old Testament (Covenant),

which deals with the creation, the fall, the flood, the history of the nation of Israel,

as well as hundreds of prophecies concerning both the first and second coming of Christ.

The Bible contains 27 books in the New Testament (Covenant), which deals with the birth and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ, stressing His vicarious death for the sins of the world and resurrection from the dead.

The Bible contains 27 books in the New Testament (Covenant),

which deals with the birth and ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ,

stressing His vicarious death for the sins of the world and resurrection from the dead.

The Bible is often referred to as "the Scriptures," meaning "sacred writings" (cf. ; ,; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ).

Matthew 22:29 KJV 1900

29 Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.

Mark 12:10 KJV 1900

10 And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner:

Mark 12:24 KJV 1900

24 And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?

Mark 15:28 KJV 1900

28 And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.

Luke 4:21 KJV 1900

21 And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

Luke 24:27 KJV 1900

27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

John 2:22 KJV 1900

22 When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.

(cf. ; ,; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;

John 5:39 KJV 1900

39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.

John 7:38 KJV 1900

38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.

John 10:35 KJV 1900

35 If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken;

Acts 17:11 KJV 1900

11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Romans 1:2 KJV 1900

2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)

Romans 4:3 KJV 1900

3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.

Galatians 4:30 KJV 1900

30 Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman.

; ; ; ; ; ).

2 Timothy 3:15 KJV 1900

15 And 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 Peter 1:20 KJV 1900

20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

2 Peter 3:16 KJV 1900

16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

In , the Bible is called "the law of the LORD"

(vs. 1), "his testimonies" (vs. 2), "thy precepts" (vs. 4), "thy statutes"

(vs. 5), "thy commandments" (vs. 6), "thy righteous judgments"

(vs. 8), "thy word" (vs. 9), etc.

Of all the names given in the Bible, "the Word of God" is the most significant (cf. ; ; ; ; ).

(cf. ; ; ; ; ).

The Bible is not merely a book, but is THE BOOK, the very Word of God, inspired, inerrant, and infallible.

The Bible is not merely a book, but is THE BOOK,

the very Word of God, inspired, inerrant, and infallible.

2 Timothy 3:16 KJV 1900

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

2 Peter 1:21 KJV 1900

21 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.

"Inspiration is usually defined as a supernatural influence exerted on the sacred writers by the Spirit of God, by virtue of which their writings are given divine trustworthiness"

by virtue of which their writings are given divine trustworthiness"

– Benjamin B. Warfield (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia).

When we speak of the inspiration of the Bible, we are not using the word the same way people use it to describe Shakespeare, Milton, Handel, et al.

we are not using the word the same way people use it to describe Shakespeare, Milton, Handel, et al.

The word "inspired" literally means "God-breathed."

When we say that the Bible is inspired, we are not saying that the authors were mere pens, passive instruments used by God to record word for word what He dictated to them.

When we say that the Bible is inspired, we are not saying that the authors were mere pens,

passive instruments used by God to record word for word what He dictated to them.

This "dictation theory" emphasizes divine authorship to the exclusion of human authorship. Consider:

Luke’s style of expression – "not a few" (,), "no small stir" (; ; cf. 15:2; 19:24; 21:39; 27:20; 28:2).

Acts 12:18 KJV 1900

18 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.

Acts 19:23 KJV 1900

23 And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.

Luke’s style of expression – "not a few" (,), "no small stir"

Acts 17:4 KJV 1900

4 And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.

Acts 17:12 KJV 1900

12 Therefore many of them believed; also of honourable women which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.

(; ; cf. 15:2; 19:24; 21:39; 27:20; 28:2).

Paul’s unique personality comes through in his various epistles (cf. ; ; ; ; ; ).

Romans 1:13 KJV 1900

13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles.

1 Corinthians 10:1 KJV 1900

1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

1 Corinthians 12:1 KJV 1900

1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.

2 Corinthians 1:8 KJV 1900

8 For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life:

(cf. ; ; ; ; ; ).

2 Corinthians 2:11 KJV 1900

11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

1 Thessalonians 4:13 KJV 1900

13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

John’s style of writing is easily identifiable (cf. with ; with ).

1 John 5:7 KJV 1900

7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

John 1:1 KJV 1900

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

1 John 4:9 KJV 1900

9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

John’s style of writing is easily identifiable

John 1:1 KJV 1900

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

John 3:16 KJV 1900

16 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.

(cf. with ; with ).

We must also reject the "partial inspiration" or "dynamic theory."

This view holds that the Bible is infallible in matters of faith and practice, but not necessarily in matters of geography, history, and science.

This view holds that the Bible is infallible in matters of faith and practice,

but not necessarily in matters of geography, history, and science.

This position is dishonoring to God. Fundamentalists believe in the plenary (full) inspiration of the Bible.

Another error popularly taught by modernists, liberals, and other heretics is the "concept inspiration theory."

According to this view, the concepts of the Bible are inspired but not the exact wording.

But the apostle Paul states that he spoke "not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost

teacheth" ().

1 Corinthians 2:13 KJV 1900

13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

Therefore, we affirm the verbal inspiration of the Bible. C.I. Scofield wrote:

"This implies neither mechanical dictation nor the effacement of the writer’s personality, but only that the Spirit infallibly guides in the choice of words from the writer’s own vocabulary"

"This implies neither mechanical dictation nor the effacement of the writer’s personality,

but only that the Spirit infallibly guides in the choice of words from the writer’s own vocabulary"

(Scofield Study Bible, p. 1213).

Finally, we strenuously oppose the "neo-orthodox theory," propagated by the liberal Karl Barth (1886-1968), which teaches that the Bible "contains the Word of God."

To Barth and his deluded followers, the Bible contains numerousmistakes but nevertheless becomes the Word of God when Christ speaks to us through it.

mistakes but nevertheless becomes the Word of God when Christ speaks to us through it.

In reality, the Bible is the inerrant Word of God.

Historically, Christians have always believed in the inerrancy of the Bible.

For example, John Wesley (1703-1791) wrote:

"Nay, if there be any mistakes in the Bible there may well be a thousand.

If there is one falsehood in that Book it did not come from the God of truth"

(Journal, cited by Charles Ryrie, Basic Theology).

Our Lord said that man shall live by "every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" (; cf. ).

Deuteronomy 8:3 KJV 1900

3 And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth man live.

Matthew 4:4 KJV 1900

4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

(; cf. ).

God’s Word is "settled in heaven" ().

Psalm 119:89 KJV 1900

89 LAMED. For ever, O Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven.

God’s Word is "settled in heaven" ().

Liberals attack the Mosaic authorship of the Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible), but Jesus affirmed it (; ).

Liberals attack the Mosaic authorship of the Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible),

Luke 24:44 KJV 1900

44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.

John 5:46 KJV 1900

46 For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.

but Jesus affirmed it (; ).

Liberals ridicule the story of Jonah and the whale but our Lord declared it to be true ().

Matthew 12:39–41 KJV 1900

39 But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: 40 For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.

Liberals ridicule the story of Jonah and the whale but our Lord declared it to be true ().

Liberals deny that Daniel wrote his prophecies but our Lord referred to "Daniel the prophet" ().

Matthew 24:15 KJV 1900

15 When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)

Liberals deny that Daniel wrote his prophecies but our Lord referred to "Daniel the prophet" ().

Many other examples could be given, including our Lord’s references to Adam and Eve (),

Matthew 19:4 KJV 1900

4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,

Many other examples could be given, including our Lord’s references to Adam and Eve (),

Noah and the flood (), the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (),the personality of Satan (), and the unity of Isaiah (liberals teach that there were three different "Isaiahs," cf. ).

Matthew 8:17 KJV 1900

17 That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.

Noah and the flood (), the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (),

John 8:44 KJV 1900

44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

the personality of Satan (), and the unity of Isaiah

Luke 17:29 KJV 1900

29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.

(liberals teach that there were three different "Isaiahs," cf. ).

Baptists have always believed that the Bible is our only authority and that is the complete Word of God.

However, most of the various Protestant groups which came out of Romanism tend to elevate their "creeds" and "confessions" above the Bible.

However, most of the various Protestant groups which came out of Romanism tend to elevate their

"creeds" and "confessions" above the Bible.

Romanists, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons, Seventh-Day Adventists and all cults add to the Bible.

They do not accept the Bible as their final authority.

Pentecostals and charismatics do not accept the authority of the Bible.

They undermine its authority by adding their strange visions, dreams, prophecies, and tongues (cf. ,).

They undermine its authority by adding their strange visions, dreams, prophecies,

Revelation 22:18 KJV 1900

18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:

Revelation 22:19 KJV 1900

19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

and tongues (cf. ,).

"I can hardly think that the Bible, which was transmitted through human beings, is totally perfect.

I believe it to be the Word of God and a fully inspired book, but not perfection"

– Pat Robertson (Answers, p. 71; cited in The Agony of Deceit, Michael Horton, editor, p. 65).

Notice the double-talk coming from the host of the charismatic "700 Club" TV show, and the founder of the Christian Coalition, CBN University, "The Family Network," etc.

and the founder of the Christian Coalition, CBN University, "The Family Network," etc.

How can the "fully inspired" Word of God be less than perfect? Cf. ; ,.

A perfect God has given us a perfect Bible.

Furthermore, God has preserved His Word.

"The King James Version is the Word of God in the English language. It has no errors in it because it carefully reflects the original language texts closest to the autographa (original autographs)"

It has no errors in it because it carefully reflects the original language

texts closest to the autographa (original autographs)"

– Thomas M. Strouse, The Lord God Hath Spoken).

We are saved by the Word of God (I peter 1:23-25; ).

Romans 10:17 KJV 1900

17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

We are changed by the Word of God (; ).

Psalm 119:11 KJV 1900

11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, That I might not sin against thee.

Hebrews 4:12 KJV 1900

12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

We are cleansed by the Word of God (; ).

Psalm 119:9 KJV 1900

9 BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word.

John 15:3 KJV 1900

3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.

We are guided by the Word of God (,; ).

Psalm 119:105 KJV 1900

105 NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, And a light unto my path.

Psalm 119:130 KJV 1900

130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; It giveth understanding unto the simple.

Joshua 1:8 KJV 1900

8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

We have victory over the devil by the Word of God (; ).

Psalm 17:4 KJV 1900

4 Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.

Matthew 4:4–10 KJV 1900

4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 5 Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, 6 And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. 7 Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. 8 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; 9 And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. 10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

We are built up by the Word of God ().

Acts 20:32 KJV 1900

32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

We should delight in the Word of God ().

Psalm 1:2 KJV 1900

2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord; And in his law doth he meditate day and night.

God’s Word is magnified above His name ().

Psalm 138:2 KJV 1900

2 I will worship toward thy holy temple, And praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: For thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.

Voltaire, the French infidel (died in 1778), boasted that within 100 years Christianity would be extinct.

However, in 1878 his house was being used by the Geneva Bible Society to print Bibles (cf. ).

March series Sanctification Message 2

Sanctification -------God calling us

++1. Life of VICTORY

++The All Sufficient Christ

—Six claims about Jesus in Colossians

1 All Things Were Created in Christ

2 All the Fulness of the Divinity Dwells in Him

3 Every Human Being Can Be Made Complete in Christ

4 All the Treasures of Wisdom and Knowledge are Hidden in Christ

5 All Things Are Under the Authority of Christ

6 All Our Sins Are Forgiven Through Christ

I} The All Sufficient Christ -

Introduction

I. THE KING OVER HIS KINGDOM

A. JESUS HIMSELF PROCLAIMED TO BE A KING

B. HIS KINGSHIP AND KINGDOM PROCLAIMED IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION

II. THE SAVIOR FROM OUR SINS

A. BY VIRTUE OF HIS BLOOD WE HAVE REDEMPTION

B. BY VIRTUE OF HIS BLOOD WE HAVE FORGIVENESS

III. THE IMAGE OF THE INVISIBLE GOD

A. THE WORD IMAGE

B. JESUS IS THE IMAGE OF GOD WHO IS INVISIBLE!

IV. THE FIRSTBORN OVER ALL CREATION

A. CONCERNING THE TERM FIRSTBORN

B. THE PURPOSE IN USING THE PHRASE FIRSTBORN OVER ALL CREATION

CONCLUSION (of part one):

Introduction

V. THE CREATOR OF ALL THINGS

A. THIS AMAZING TRUTH CONCERNING JESUS IS ALSO CONFIRMED BY

B. FROM THESE VERSES WE LEARN THAT WHEN THE WORLD WAS CREATED

C. AS THE CREATOR OF ALL THINGS

VI. THE SUSTAINER OF ALL THINGS

A. IN HIM ALL THINGS CONSIST

B. WHAT IF JESUS CHOSE TO REMOVE HIS POWER?

VII. THE HEAD OF THE BODY, THE CHURCH

A. THE CHURCH IS THE BODY OF CHRIST

B. AS THE HEAD, JESUS IS OVER THE CHURCH

VIII. THE BEGINNING, THE FIRSTBORN FROM THE DEAD

A. THE WORD BEGINNING

B. REMEMBER THE USE OF THE WORD FIRSTBORN

C. THUS, IN REGARDS TO THE RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD

IX. THE FULLNESS OF ALL THINGS

A. JESUS IS CLEARLY THE FULLNESS OF DEITY

B. JESUS IS ALSO OUR FULLNESS

++ LIFE OF VICTORY

++ the Saving Life of Christ

1) KNOW (v.3,6,9);

2) RECKON (v.11);

3) YIELD (v.13).

First, the believer must KNOW THE FACTS!

Secondly, the believer must RECKON or COUNT ON THESE FACTS (consider them to be true).

Thirdly, the believer in Christ is to YIELD or present his bodily members to God as one who is ALIVE FROM THE DEAD (v.13).

++THE NECESSITY OF THE SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE

THE PERSON AND WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

WHILE EVERY CHRISTIAN POSSESSES THE HOLY SPIRIT,

THE HOLY SPIRIT DOES NOT POSSESS EVERY CHRISTIAN.

1. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can live in OBEDIENCE TO THE WILL OF GOD.

2. ’BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can experience an ABUNDANT LIFE.

3. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can engage in EFFECTIVE SERVICE.

4. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can be KEPT FROM BACKSLIDING.

5. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can know THE BLESSING OF A GUIDED LIFE.

6. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that your life can be one of FRUITFULNESS.

7. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that the DIVINE LIFE CAN BE FULLY REPRODUCED IN US.

++ THE HINDRANCES TO A SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE

THE PERSON AND WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

IF WE ARE NOT FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT, THE FAULT IS NEVER ON GOD’S SIDE

- IT IS ALWAYS ON MAN’S SIDE.

1. It may be due to an unwillingness on our part to acknowledge that we need His infilling.

2. It may be due to an unwillingness on our part to accept the implications which go with His infilling.

3. It may be due to an unwillingness on our part to abandon the sins which prevent His infilling.

4. It may be due to an unwillingness on our part to accept by faith the promise which secures His infilling.

5. It may be due to an unwillingness on our part to adopt the means which maintain His infilling.

++THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE

THE PERSON AND WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

LET US BEGIN BY SAYING WHAT THE EVIDENCES ARE NOT.

(1) If a man is filled with the Holy Spirit he will not necessarily be noisy, highly excited or full of physical strength.

(2) To be filled with the Holy Spirit is not to reach a state of sinless perfection or to attain a state where the old nature is eradicated (,).

(3) The Spirit-filled life is not a life free from temptation ().

(4) The Spirit-filled life is not a life where further and fuller growth is impossible or unnecessary ().

There are at least seven ways in which we may study the characteristics of the Spirit-filled life. It would take too long to expound these seven lines of study fully, but they are briefly mentioned here as a guide to individual study.

1. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can live in OBEDIENCE TO THE WILL OF GOD.

2. ’BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can experience an ABUNDANT LIFE.

3. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can engage in EFFECTIVE SERVICE.

4. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can be KEPT FROM BACKSLIDING.

5. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that you can know THE BLESSING OF A GUIDED LIFE.

6. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that your life can be one of FRUITFULNESS.

7. ‘BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT’, so that the DIVINE LIFE CAN BE FULLY REPRODUCED IN US.

IF WE ARE NOT FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT, THE FAULT IS NEVER ON GOD’S SIDE

- IT IS ALWAYS ON MAN’S SIDE.

2. THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE ARE SEEN IN OUR LORD’S TEACHING ON THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.