DISCIPLESHIP LESSONS

Noel Merrick

DISCIPLESHIP LESSONS series lessons 1-4 • Sermon • Submitted 6 years ago

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Lesson 0ne

Salvation

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” ().

Romans 1:16 KJV 1900

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

This lesson is written under the assumption that you, the disciple, have been saved or born again. If you have not had this experience then it is our prayer that this lesson will be used of God to bring you to salvation.

I. What Is Salvation?

A. Passing from death to life

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life” ().

John 5:24 KJV 1900

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

B. Escaping hell (and the lake of fire) and gaining heaven

“And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire” ().

Revelation 20:15 KJV 1900

And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

C. Turning from a life devoted to serving self to a life devoted to serving God according to the teachings of His Son Jesus Christ

“And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me” ().

Matthew 10:38 KJV 1900

And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.

D. Adoption into the family of God

2 • Lesson One

“To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father” ().

Galatians 4:5–6 KJV 1900

To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

II. How Does a Person Get Saved?

A. By believing the gospel of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ

“Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures” ().

1 Corinthians 15:1–4 KJV 1900

Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:

B. By submitting to God’s command to repent

“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord” ().

Acts 3:19 KJV 1900

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

C. By making a determination that from this moment on, I will attempt to live my life in the way most pleasing to God

“That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God” ().

Colossians 1:10 KJV 1900

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

D. By calling upon the Lord, asking Him to save you

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” ().

Salvation • 3

Romans 10:13 KJV 1900

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

III.Scriptural Steps to Salvation:

Things You Should Understand

A. Ye must be born again

“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again” (). “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” ().

John 3:3–7 KJV 1900

Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

1 Peter 1:23 KJV 1900

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

B. Jesus is the only way

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” ().

John 14:6 KJV 1900

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

“For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” ().

1 Timothy 2:5 KJV 1900

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

1. Recognize your sinful nature

“Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned” (). “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” ().

Romans 5:12 KJV 1900

Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

Romans 3:23 KJV 1900

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

2. Recognize the “wages of sin”

4 • Lesson One

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (). “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” (). “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” ().

Romans 6:23 KJV 1900

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Hebrews 9:27 KJV 1900

And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

Mark 8:36 KJV 1900

For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?

3. Salvation is by grace (unmerited mercy)

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast” (). “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost” ().

Ephesians 2:8–9 KJV 1900

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Titus 3:5 KJV 1900

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

4. Salvation is through the blood of Jesus

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (). “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace” (). “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin” (). “And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission” (). “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” ().

Ephesians 1:3 KJV 1900

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

Ephesians 1:7 KJV 1900

In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

1 John 1:7 KJV 1900

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Hebrews 9:22 KJV 1900

And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.

Romans 5:8 KJV 1900

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

5. Accept salvation on faith

Salvation • 5

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (). “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief” (). “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” ().

Romans 10:17 KJV 1900

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

1 Timothy 1:15 KJV 1900

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

John 3:16 KJV 1900

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.

6. The condition of repentance (turning away from sin)

“For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death” (). “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord” (). “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” ().

2 Corinthians 7:10 KJV 1900

For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

Acts 3:19 KJV 1900

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

2 Timothy 2:19 KJV 1900

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.

7. Ask God to save you based on Jesus’ atoning death on the cross

6 • Lesson One

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (). “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (). “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out” (). “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” ().

Romans 10:9–10 KJV 1900

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Romans 10:13 KJV 1900

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

John 6:37 KJV 1900

All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

Revelation 3:20 KJV 1900

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.

8. If you understand what you have just been studying and realize that you have never truly made a commitment to God of this nature, and if you want to make that commitment now, you should do so by praying a simple prayer such as the following one:

Dear God, I realize now that I am a sinner headed for eternity in hell. I know that because Jesus paid for my sins on Calvary’s cross, I can be forgiven and purified, and have peace with you. I now renounce my life of serving sin and self and ask You to grant me the gift of eternal life. I thank You that You have said whosoever will may come and that includes me. I thank You for saving me based solely on what Jesus did on the cross, In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Salvation • 7

IV.What Happened to Me When I Got Saved?

A. You became a “new creature” and a “new man”

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (). “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” ().

2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV 1900

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Ephesians 4:24 KJV 1900

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

B. You received new desires

“Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart” ().

Psalm 37:4 KJV 1900

Delight thyself also in the Lord; And he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

C. You received new purpose and new goals

“Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord” ().

Acts 11:23 KJV 1900

Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.

D. Your sins were washed away by the blood of Jesus Christ

8 • Lesson One

“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” ().

Revelation 1:5 KJV 1900

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,

E. You were justified in the eyes of God. You may prefer to state it like this: “I was made ‘just as if I’d’ never sinned.”

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him” ().

Romans 5:8–9 KJV 1900

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.

V. God Gets Me, What Do I Get Out of It?

A. Everlasting life

“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” (). “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life” ().

John 3:16 KJV 1900

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 5:24 KJV 1900

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

B. Peace with God

“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” ().

Romans 5:1 KJV 1900

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

C. A life with purpose and meaning

“And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again” ().

2 Corinthians 5:15 KJV 1900

And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

D. A concerned and loving Father

“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” ().

1 John 2:1 KJV 1900

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:

E. Forgiveness for all past sins and also for all future sins

“Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God” (). “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” ().

Romans 3:25 KJV 1900

Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

1 John 1:9 KJV 1900

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

F. The ministry of the Holy Ghost

Salvation • 9

“And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 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” ().

John 14:16–17 KJV 1900

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 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.

“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” ().

John 14:26 KJV 1900

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.

G. A new body for eternity

“So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: . . . It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body” (, ).

1 Corinthians 15:42 KJV 1900

So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption:

1 Corinthians 15:44 KJV 1900

It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.

H. Access to the throne of God’s grace through prayer

“For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (). “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” ().

Hebrews 4:15–16 KJV 1900

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

James 5:16 KJV 1900

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

I. Grace to live day-by-day

10 • Lesson One

“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” ().

1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV 1900

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.

VI.What Does God Expect From Me Now?

Meditate on the following verses.

Let God speak to you through the ministry of the Holy Ghost.

“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” ().

Titus 2:11–14 KJV 1900

For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

“This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men” ().

Titus 3:8 KJV 1900

This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

“He must increase, but I must decrease” ().

John 3:30 KJV 1900

He must increase, but I must decrease.

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen” ().

Salvation • 11

Matthew 28:19–20 KJV 1900

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints” ().

Ephesians 6:10–18 KJV 1900

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Lesson Two

The Bible (Word of God)

“The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever” ().

Psalm 12:6–7 KJV 1900

The words of the Lord are pure words: As silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, Thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.

I. What Is the Word of God?

A. By the “Word of God” here we are referring to the written record of God’s communication with men as presented in the Holy Bible. In the English language the Word of God is found in the Authorized 1611 King James Version of the Bible.

B. The Bible is actually a collection of sixty-six (66) separate writings in the form of historical accounts, prophecies, inspirational writings, and letters of instruction given to men by the Holy Ghost to be preserved for all time as a manual to guide men to God. These sixty-six books, written over a period of nearly 2,000 years, are in perfect agreement and essentially combine to form one book.

“We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” ().

2 Peter 1:19–21 KJV 1900

We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

C. The Bible makes bold claims about itself. It claims to be inspired and preserved by God.

If these claims are true, it must be infallible, inerrant, authoritative and immutable. The Bible claims that it’s words will be preserved forever and that belief in what it says is necessary for salvation. “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” (). “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away” ).

1 Peter 1:23 KJV 1900

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

Matthew 24:35 KJV 1900

Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

II. Navigating the Word of God In order for the Bible to become an effective tool in your daily life, you need to learn your way around in it.

The basic things you will need to understand are that it is divided into two major sections called the Old Testament and the New Testament. These sections are further divided into a number of individual books written at various times by various authors who were led of the Holy Ghost.

Each book is further broken down onto a number of chapters generally according to the amount of material contained in it. Finally, each chapter is broken down into a number of ‘bite size’ sections called verses.

By this means any portion of Scripture can be easily referenced and quickly found by anyone interested in checking it out. The particular Testament in which a reference is found is rarely given so you would be wise to memorize the books in their proper order in each Testament.

Using the above methodology, to find a verse referenced as , you would first of all have to know that the book of John is in the New Testament and further that it is the fourth book from the beginning.

John 3:16 KJV 1900

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.

This can be determined in most Bibles by looking in the table of contents found either before the Old Testament or before the Testament in which the book is found. Upon finding the Book of John (as distinguished from the books called 1 John, 2 John, or 3 John), you would scan the text for the large numbers that mark off the chapters or for a chapter heading.

When you find the third chapter, you simply follow the smaller numbers down the page until you come to number 16.

The entire set of words, phrases or sentences found up to the number 17 comprise the verse in question. With a little practice you will soon see how very easy this is to do.

From now on, many verses will be referenced without being quoted in these lessons. It will be up to you to look these up and determine how and why they fit the subject being discussed.

This will provide abundant opportunities to familiarize yourself with your Bible and soon you will find that you can find any reference within less than a minute, often in a few seconds.

A. Old Testament Thirty-nine (39) books, primarily Jewish in flavor and outlook. Breaks down naturally into 3 categories. There is overlap of form and function between the categories, nevertheless they are readily distinguishable.

1. History of the world from the perspective of the messianic line to Jesus. Covers approximately the first 3500 years of creation.

2. Inspirational writings, wisdom literature, and instructional writings for living day by day. Mostly valid for any era.

The Bible • 3

3. Prophetical books dealing primarily with the first and second comings of Christ. They also deal with Israel’s future problems with the nations of the world.

B. New Testament Twenty-seven (27) books, primarily Christian in flavor and outlook. Breaks down naturally into 4 sections for a total of 7 broad sections to entire Bible.

1. Gospels: four separate accounts of Jesus’ earthly ministry, His call to repentance, and His offer of salvation to a lost and dying world.

They chronicle the completion of God’s part in His great plan of redemption for “whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord.” These books start with Matthew, a book with heavy Jewish overtones and outlook. They transition to the book of John, a book that demonstrates God’s great love and inspires to put one’s faith and trust in Him, whether Jew or Gentile.

2. History of the beginning of the Church.

3. Letters of instruction and inspiration from the Apostles meant to be applied to all our day to day lives.

4. A prophetical book dealing primarily with the second coming of Christ and the cataclysmic events that surround it.

C. Study the chart following. It will show each of the books of the Bible in their proper setting.

Notice the orderly fashion in which the Bible, which on casual inspection seems to be just a conglomeration of books, actually is laid out. Each book is listed in it’s order of appearance in the Bible and is in it’s proper place. It is very significant that there are 7 distinct divisions to the Bible. That God works in sevens is abundantly clear not only through the Scriptures, but also in the natural creation around us. For a few examples, there are 7 notes on the musical scale, there are 7 colors in the spectrum, there are 7 periods in the periodic table of the elements, and there are 7 days to a week on the calendar. We have 7 days in our week because God completed the creation process in 7 days. He worked for 6 days and rested the 7th. He then instructed man to follow His example: work 6 days, rest

1. Knowing that 7 is God’s number of completion, we can have complete confidence that He has finished His written revelation to us.

The Bible is complete and perfect as it stands today.

O L D T E S T A M E N T N E W T E S T A M E N T

Prophetical Books Gospels Historical Book Inspirational/ Instructional Books Prophetical Books

Age of Law Age of Faith (Jewish Emphasis) (Christian Emphasis)

(Future) (Transitional) (Past) (Present) (Future)

34567

Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea • Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah • Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

Matthew Mark Luke John Acts & 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians & & 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews & , & 3 John Jude Revelation

Historical Books Inspirational/ Instructional Books

(Past) (Present)

Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges & & & 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah

Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Solomon

The Bible • 5

III.Can I Have Complete Confidence and Faith in the Word of God?

A. The Bible is a majestic, inspiring, and amazing book, but that alone doesn’t prove that it came from Almighty God.

We must, in the final analysis, accept it on faith and make a conscious decision that we will not doubt it.

As a new Christian, you may have many reasons to doubt it thrown in your face. You need to realize that you now have a powerful enemy, the Devil, who wants to destroy your faith and make you an ineffective Christian. You must make up your mind that you will stand firm and true to your God.

Ephesians 6:10–18 KJV 1900

B. The Word of God is full of internal proofs as to its reliability.

6 • Lesson Two

These proofs are objectively demonstrable in the areas of historical accuracy, the findings of archaeology, and the astounding record of fulfilled prophecy. There are also subjectively observable proofs of its authorship and reliability in the emotional responses to it by both believers and unbelievers. Through the centuries many men have given their lives to preserve it. On the other hand, their oppressors have been willing to murder them in order to keep it out of the hands of the general populace. Even today, in America’s public schools,the Bible is strictly forbidden while writings and teachings of other religions are freely discussed and studied. The Bible has been challenged for centuries regarding it’s historical accuracy. Yet one by one the findings of archaeology and historians have defeated these challenges. The Bible is now considered an important source book by many secular historians and archaeologists. Some important milestones in these areas have been the discovery of artifacts and tablets proving that the Hittite empire existed and the finding of an ancient level to the city of Jericho which matches in detail the story of its defeat at the hands of the Joshua-led Israelites.

C. The Bible has one aspect, however, that no other book on Earth has.

the Bible is strictly forbidden while writings and teachings of other religions are freely discussed and studied. The Bible has been challenged for centuries regarding it’s historical accuracy. Yet one by one the findings of archaeology and historians have defeated these challenges. The Bible is now considered an important source book by many secular historians and archaeologists. Some important milestones in these areas have been the discovery of artifacts and tablets proving that the Hittite empire existed and the finding of an ancient level to the city of Jericho which matches in detail the story of its defeat at the hands of the Joshua-led Israelites. C. The Bible has one aspect, however, that no other book on Earth has. It has a solid, 100% accurate record of fulfilled prophecy. It is in this area that the Bible gains irrefutable credibility. Perhaps the most exciting thing about its prophecies is that many are being fulfilled in our lifetime and many, many more are indicated for the very near future. These will be dealt with in a later lesson. Here is a tiny sampling of the Bible’s already fulfilled prophecies. 1. First advent Messianic prophecies: Prophecy O.T. Scripture N.T. Fulfillment Place of birth ..................; Born of a virgin ..........; Rejection by Jews .....................; ; ; Triumphal entry ..... ; Betrayed by a friend .................................. ; , Sold for 30 pieces of silver .......... ; Crucified w/sinners ............................ ; ; Hands/feet pierced , ............; Cast lots for His coat .........; Buried with the rich ......................... His resurrection ; His ascension ............. ;

It has a solid, 100% accurate record of fulfilled prophecy. It is in this area that the Bible gains irrefutable credibility. Perhaps the most exciting thing about its prophecies is that many are being fulfilled in our lifetime and many, many more are indicated for the very near future. These will be dealt with in a later lesson. Here is a tiny sampling of the Bible’s already fulfilled prophecies.

1. First advent Messianic prophecies:

The Bible • 7

Prophecy O.T. Scripture N.T.

Fulfillment Place of birth ..................;

Micah 5:2 KJV 1900

But thou, Beth-lehem Ephratah, Though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; Whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.

Matthew 2:1 KJV 1900

Now when Jesus was born in Beth-lehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

Luke 2:4–7 KJV 1900

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Beth-lehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

Born of a virgin ..........;

Isaiah 7:14 KJV 1900

Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, And shall call his name Immanuel.

Matthew 1:18 KJV 1900

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.

Luke 1:26–35 KJV 1900

And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Rejection by Jews .....................; ; ;

Isaiah 53:3 KJV 1900

He is despised and rejected of men; A man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: And we hid as it were our faces from him; He was despised, and we esteemed him not.

John 1:11 KJV 1900

He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

Luke 4:29 KJV 1900

And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong.

Luke 17:25 KJV 1900

But first must he suffer many things, and be rejected of this generation.

Luke 23:18 KJV 1900

And they cried out all at once, saying, Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas:

Triumphal entry ..... ;

Zechariah 9:9 KJV 1900

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: Behold, thy King cometh unto thee: He is just, and having salvation; Lowly, and riding upon an ass, And upon a colt the foal of an ass.

John 12:12–16 KJV 1900

On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord. And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written, Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass’s colt. These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him.

Matthew 21:1–11 KJV 1900

And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me. And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them. All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them, And brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him thereon. And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way. And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest. And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this? And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.

Betrayed by a friend .................................. ; ,

Psalm 41:9 KJV 1900

Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, Which did eat of my bread, Hath lifted up his heel against me.

Mark 14:10 KJV 1900

And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them.

Matthew 26:14–16 KJV 1900

Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.

Matthew 26:47–50 KJV 1900

And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people. Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he: hold him fast. And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master; and kissed him. And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.

Sold for 30 pieces of silver .......... ;

Zechariah 11:12–13 KJV 1900

And I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. And the Lord said unto me, Cast it unto the potter: a goodly price that I was prised at of them. And I took the thirty pieces of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the Lord.

Matthew 26:15 KJV 1900

And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.

Matthew 27:3–10 KJV 1900

Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself. And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood. And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter’s field, to bury strangers in. Wherefore that field was called, The field of blood, unto this day. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value; And gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord appointed me.

Crucified w/sinners ............................ ; ;

Isaiah 53:12 KJV 1900

Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, And he shall divide the spoil with the strong; Because he hath poured out his soul unto death: And he was numbered with the transgressors; And he bare the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors.

Matthew 27:38 KJV 1900

Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left.

Mark 15:27–28 KJV 1900

And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left. And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.

Luke 23:33 KJV 1900

And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.

Hands/feet pierced , ............;

Psalm 22:16 KJV 1900

For dogs have compassed me: The assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: They pierced my hands and my feet.

Zechariah 12:10 KJV 1900

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.

John 20:25–27 KJV 1900

The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.

John 19:37 KJV 1900

And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced.

Cast lots for His coat .........;

Psalm 22:18 KJV 1900

They part my garments among them, And cast lots upon my vesture.

Mark 15:24 KJV 1900

And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.

John 19:23–24 KJV 1900

Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.

Buried with the rich .........................

Isaiah 53:9 KJV 1900

And he made his grave with the wicked, And with the rich in his death; Because he had done no violence, Neither was any deceit in his mouth.

Matthew 27:57–60 KJV 1900

When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus’ disciple: He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.

His resurrection ;

Psalm 16:10 KJV 1900

For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; Neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

Matthew 28:5–9 KJV 1900

And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you. And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.

Luke 24:36–48 KJV 1900

And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet. And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. And he took it, and did eat before them. 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. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.

His ascension ............. ;

Psalm 68:18 KJV 1900

Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: Thou hast received gifts for men; Yea, for the rebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among them.

Luke 24:50–51 KJV 1900

And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.

Acts 1:9 KJV 1900

And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.

2. Specific modern day prophetic fulfillments

a. Israel became a nation “And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.

And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria [all Jews were out of Syria by October 1994], and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush [Africa/Ethiopia], and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea” ().

Isaiah 11:10–11 KJV 1900

And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, Which shall stand for an ensign of the people; To it shall the Gentiles seek: And his rest shall be glorious. And it shall come to pass in that day, That the Lord shall set his hand again the second time To recover the remnant of his people, Which shall be left, from Assyria, And from Egypt, and from Pathros, And from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, And from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.

“Behold, I will bring them from the north country, [as the massive, ongoing Russian immigration] and gather them from the coasts of the earth, [Ethiopia is a coastal nation] and with them the blind and the lame, the woman with child and her that travaileth with child together: [Seven babies were born ‘in flight’ during the massive midnight airlift of Ethiopian Jews to Israel that occurred a few years ago] a great company shall return thither” ().

Jeremiah 31:8 KJV 1900

Behold, I will bring them from the north country, And gather them from the coasts of the earth, And with them the blind and the lame, The woman with child and her that travaileth with child together: A great company shall return thither.

8 • Lesson Two

“Who hath heard such a thing? who hath seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in one day? or shall a nation be born at once? [How about May 14, 1948? The day Israel was made a nation by an act of the United Nations.] for as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children” ().

Isaiah 66:8 KJV 1900

Who hath heard such a thing? who hath seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in one day? Or shall a nation be born at once? For as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children.

b. Prophesied description of man at this time “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, [slaughtering their own babies through abortion perhaps? Engaging in homosexuality perhaps?] trucebreakers, false accusers incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God” ().

2 Timothy 3:1–4 KJV 1900

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;

c. Prophecies by Jesus Christ for the same time period.

“For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows” ().

The Bible • 9

Matthew 24:5–8 KJV 1900

For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.

“And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled? And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you: For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows” ().

Mark 13:3–8 KJV 1900

And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled? And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you: For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.

“And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass? And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven” ().

Luke 21:7–11 KJV 1900

And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass? And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.

IV.Learning From the Word of God

A. The Bible offers guidelines for every area of your daily life.

However, to effectively use it, you must constantly read and study it. The Bible is unique in that it cannot be truly understood by someone who is not a child of God. Read .

1 Corinthians 2:12–16 KJV 1900

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 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. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

B. On the other hand, we who are the children of God have been given a helper to dwell within.

He will guide us into the truth if we will follow scriptural guidelines.

The Bible tells us: “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 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” ().

John 14:16–17 KJV 1900

“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” ().

John 14:26 KJV 1900

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.

C. The scriptural guidelines mentioned in point B above refer to a principle of Bible study taught in the Old Testament book of Isaiah.

“Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little” ().

Isaiah 28:9–10 KJV 1900

Whom shall he teach knowledge? And whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, And drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; Line upon line, line upon line; Here a little, and there a little:

It is important to learn all that the Bible has to say on a subject before forming a doctrinal position. Many people have not followed the biblical principals for formulating doctrine and have ended up forming or joining dangerous cults. The Word of God must never be handled so carelessly or half-heartedly.

D. For these reasons you can see that it is very important for every Christian to read the Bible from cover to cover, over and over. In this way he can become competent to interpret what he reads.

10 • Lesson Two

However, lest you become discouraged, the next section will show you a few study aids that will let you take advantage of the study time that others have put in.

V. Study Aids

A. The best tool is a good quality Bible that has helps and cross references in a column on the same page as the text it supports.

These cross references will quickly steer you to most of the other verses on the subject they apply to.

B. The second most useful tool is a good concordance.

This is a book which has every word used in the Bible listed in alphabetical order. Under each word is a list of all the verses in which that word occurs throughout the Bible. Some of the text that immediately precedes or follows the word is given for context. By far the best concordance available is called Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible.

C. Additional useful reference sources are:

1. A good Bible Dictionary.

2. A Webster’s 1828 edition of the American Dictionary of the English Language for understanding the fullest and best meanings of individual words at the time they were written.

3. A topical Bible such as Nave’s Topical Bible.

4. Bible commentaries.

5. Writings in books and articles of other respected men of God.

D. Prayer.

You should always ask your Heavenly Father to clear your mind of any incorrect preconceived ideas and to open your heart to receive His truth before you sit down to study his Word.

Lesson 3

Christianity: A Daily Walk with Jesus

Titus 2:11–13 KJV 1900

Living as a Christian in a lost world can be a very tough job if we try to do it in our own strength. We must have God’s help to be effective. It is therefore imperative that we quickly develop a close and proper relationship with Him. The apostle James stated it like this: “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded” ().

James 4:8 KJV 1900

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

I. Building a Personal Relationship With Your God

A. Through Bible study—God speaks to us

“God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds” ().

2 • Lesson Three

Hebrews 1:1–2 KJV 1900

God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;

You should find a place and time that is free of distraction where you can read your Bible every day. You now have a powerful enemy, the Devil, who will use every means at his disposal to prevent you from concentrating on and learning from the Scriptures. He knows that the more you read your Bible and pray, the less likely it is that he can make you ineffective. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” ().

1 Peter 5:8 KJV 1900

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

1. Study daily

“And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. 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” ().

Acts 17:10–11 KJV 1900

And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Berea: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. 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.

2. Study objectively

“And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power” ().

Colossians 2:4–10 KJV 1900

And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power:

3. Four ways by which God communicates with us

a. Through the Word of God: ,

1 John 5:9–11 KJV 1900

If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

1 John 5:13 KJV 1900

These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

b. Through other people: ;

Nehemiah 8:5–8 KJV 1900

And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up: And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the Lord with their faces to the ground. Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place. So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.

Jeremiah 1:7 KJV 1900

But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak.

c. Through the circumstances of life (God will open and close doors if we ask Him to): ;

Colossians 4:3 KJV 1900

Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

Revelation 3:7–8 KJV 1900

And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.

d. Through His “still, small voice.

” When reading your Bible, the Lord may impress some particular verse upon you such that you will want to apply it to your life in some special situation. This isn’t, however, the only way he may speak:

1 Kings 19:11–12 KJV 1900

And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.

B. Through prayer—we speak to God.

“But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking” ().

Christianity: A Daily Walk with Jesus • 3

You need to find a place and time where you can get away every day to commune with God and tell Him your problems, needs, and desires. The best way to pray at such a time is on your knees to show the Lord that He is your Lord. It is also recommended that you pray with your eyes closed if things around you are distracting you. You must remember that you now have a powerful enemy, the Devil, who hates it when you pray. He will use every means at his disposal to distract you and make prayer uncomfortable. At such times the Bible tells us to “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” ().

1. Pray daily ; ;

Daniel 6:10 KJV 1900

Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.

Psalm 55:17 KJV 1900

Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: And he shall hear my voice.

1 Thessalonians 3:9–10 KJV 1900

For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

2. Pray continually , ; ;

Acts 2:42 KJV 1900

And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Romans 1:9 KJV 1900

For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;

Ephesians 6:18 KJV 1900

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

1 Thessalonians 5:17 KJV 1900

Pray without ceasing.

3. Pray according to God’s will

1 John 5:14–15 KJV 1900

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

4. Some topics of prayer

a. Worship:

Genesis 24:26–27 KJV 1900

And the man bowed down his head, and worshipped the Lord. And he said, Blessed be the Lord God of my master Abraham, who hath not left destitute my master of his mercy and his truth: I being in the way, the Lord led me to the house of my master’s brethren.

b. Confession/forgiveness for sins: ;

1 John 1:9 KJV 1900

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

Nehemiah 1:6 KJV 1900

Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, day and night, for the children of Israel thy servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against thee: both I and my father’s house have sinned.

c. For personal and family needs/wants: ; ,;

Matthew 6:9–13 KJV 1900

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Philippians 4:6 KJV 1900

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Philippians 4:19 KJV 1900

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

1 John 3:22 KJV 1900

And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.

d. For your pastor and your church: ; ;

1 Thessalonians 5:25 KJV 1900

Brethren, pray for us.

2 Thessalonians 3:1 KJV 1900

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:

James 5:16 KJV 1900

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

e. Intercession for others: , and

Romans 1:9 KJV 1900

For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;

James 5:13–16 KJV 1900

Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

f. For country and government:

1 Timothy 2:1–2 KJV 1900

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

g. For wisdom:

James 1:5–7 KJV 1900

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.

h. Thanksgiving (for food and other blessings): ; ;

Mark 8:6 KJV 1900

And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground: and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake, and gave to his disciples to set before them; and they did set them before the people.

John 6:11 KJV 1900

And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.

1 Timothy 4:4–5 KJV 1900

For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.

C. Through praising God. God inhabits the praise of His people.

“But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel” ().

Psalm 22:3 KJV 1900

But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.

1. In singing ; ;

Acts 16:25 KJV 1900

And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

Psalm 7:17 KJV 1900

I will praise the Lord according to his righteousness: And will sing praise to the name of the Lord most high.

Psalm 48:1–2 KJV 1900

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised In the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, On the sides of the north, the city of the great King.

2. In conversation

Hebrews 13:15 KJV 1900

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

D. Through giving to God “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.

For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again” ().

Luke 6:38 KJV 1900

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it ().

Malachi 3:10 KJV 1900

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be meat in mine house, And prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, If I will not open you the windows of heaven, And pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

You need to find a place to give your offerings to the Lord to. Your local church should be that place. We will discuss how to find a local church in the next lesson.

“And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, even of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD” ().

Leviticus 27:32 KJV 1900

And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, even of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the Lord.

“For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace”().

Hebrews 7:1–2 KJV 1900

For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace;

1. Give of your time ; ;

Romans 13:11 KJV 1900

And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.

Ephesians 5:15–17 KJV 1900

See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

Colossians 4:5 KJV 1900

Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

2. Give of your talents

1 Peter 4:11 KJV 1900

If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

3. Give of your treasures ; ;

2 Corinthians 9:6–8 KJV 1900

But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

Luke 6:38 KJV 1900

Malachi 3:8 KJV 1900

Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.

E. Through loving God “Jesus said unto him,

Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets” ().

Matthew 22:37–40 KJV 1900

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

1. A few reasons for loving God

A few reasons for loving God

a. Because He first loved us: 1

John 1:19 KJV 1900

And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou?

b. Because He died in our stead:

Romans 5:8 KJV 1900

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

c. He ever lives to make intercession for us: ;

Hebrews 7:25 KJV 1900

Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.

1 John 2:1–2 KJV 1900

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

d. He watches over and cares for us: ;

1 Peter 5:7 KJV 1900

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Matthew 10:29–31 KJV 1900

Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

F. Through fearing God. God is love, but God is also just. Disobedience cannot go unpunished.

“And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear” ().

1 Peter 1:17 KJV 1900

And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:

“O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!” ().

Deuteronomy 5:29 KJV 1900

O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!

1. Because God has all power ;

Matthew 10:28 KJV 1900

And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Proverbs 1:7 KJV 1900

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

2. Because He is just and He will judge all men according to their works ;

Hebrews 9:27 KJV 1900

And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

1 Timothy 5:24 KJV 1900

Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.

a. The saved at the judgment seat of Christ: ; ; ;

Romans 14:10 KJV 1900

But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:10 KJV 1900

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

1 Peter 4:17 KJV 1900

For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

1 John 4:17–18 KJV 1900

Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

. The lost at the Great White Throne judgment: ; ;

1 John 4:17–18b KJV 1900

II. Living in a Non-Christian World

“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” ().

1 John 2:15–17 KJV 1900

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

A. We are called to separation from the world ; ; ; ; ;

John 15:19 KJV 1900

If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.

2 Corinthians 6:14–17 KJV 1900

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,

James 4:4–6 KJV 1900

Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

1 Corinthians 2:12 KJV 1900

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

1 Corinthians 5:9–11 KJV 1900

I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.

John 17:13–17 KJV 1900

And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

B. We are called to holiness ; ; ;

Psalm 4:1–4 KJV 1900

Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: Thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; Have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer. O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? How long will ye love vanity, and seek after leasing? Selah. But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for himself: The Lord will hear when I call unto him. Stand in awe, and sin not: Commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.

Titus 2:11–14 KJV 1900

1 Peter 1:15–16 KJV 1900

But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

1 Peter 4:1–5 KJV 1900

Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.

C. We are called to self-control ; ;

Psalm 39:1 KJV 1900

I said, I will take heed to my ways, That I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, While the wicked is before me.

Romans 6:12–13 KJV 1900

Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

Ephesians 4:23–27 KJV 1900

And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.

D. We are called to yield to civil authorities whenever they do not require us to break God’s laws ; ; ; ,

Proverbs 29:2 KJV 1900

When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: But when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

Acts 5:29 KJV 1900

Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

Titus 3:1–2 KJV 1900

Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.

1 Peter 2:11–15 KJV 1900

Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:

1 Peter 2:18 KJV 1900

Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.

E. We are called to be citizens of the heavenly kingdom right now ; ; ; , , ; ; ;

John 14:2–3 KJV 1900

In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

John 18:36 KJV 1900

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.

Romans 12:2 KJV 1900

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

2 Corinthians 5:1 KJV 1900

For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

2 Corinthians 5:6–11 KJV 1900

Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.

2 Corinthians 5:20 KJV 1900

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.

Ephesians 2:19 KJV 1900

Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

Hebrews 11:13–16 KJV 1900

These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.

1 Peter 2:9–11 KJV 1900

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;

F. We are called to watch for our blessed hope. One day soon Jesus will physically return to change our natural bodies into perfect, glorified bodies that can never be harmed or sick. We will then be eternal beings ready to take up residence in our new homes. ; ; ; Thessalonians 4:13–18;

John 14:2–3 KJV 1900

Acts 1:6–11 KJV 1900

When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 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 when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.

1 Corinthians 15:51–52 KJV 1900

1 Corinthians 15:1 KJV 1900

Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;

1 John 3:1–3 KJV 1900

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

III.Dealing With the Troubles That Life Brings Your Way

“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” ().

2 Peter 1:4 KJV 1900

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.

Just because you’ve been saved and put God in control in your life, that doesn’t mean that your troubles will all be over. As long as you live in this world, sin (whether yours or others’) will bring problems that touch everyone around it. But take heart, Jesus has already won the victory over sin and every problem of life. You must do whatever you can about the situation and trust Him to take care of the rest. He will always see you through the hard times to a place of ultimate victory (see ).

Romans 8:37–39 KJV 1900

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The Word of God is filled with precious promises that can comfort and sustain you through the “valleys” of life. The following is but a small sampling of the promises that God has given us concerning life’s problems. As you read your Bible you should expand on this list, writing down promises that are especially precious to you. This way, in times of trouble you will know right where to turn for help (see ).

1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV 1900

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” ().

Proverbs 3:5–6 KJV 1900

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.

(The following list is excerpted from the book God’s Promises For Your Every Need, written and published by: C&D International, 9029 Director’s Row, Dallas, Texas 75247) What to do when . . .

A. You have a physical illness.

“Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him” (). ; ; ; ;

James 5:14–15 KJV 1900

Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

3 John 2 KJV 1900

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.

Jeremiah 17:14 KJV 1900

Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.

Jeremiah 30:17 KJV 1900

For I will restore health unto thee, And I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the Lord; Because they called thee an Outcast, saying, This is Zion, whom no man seeketh after.

Exodus 15:26 KJV 1900

And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the Lord that healeth thee.

Proverbs 4:20–22 KJV 1900

My son, attend to my words; Incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; Keep them in the midst of thine heart. For they are life unto those that find them, And health to all their flesh.

B. You are in financial trouble.

“Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass” (). ; ; ; ; ; ;

Psalm 37:5 KJV 1900

Commit thy way unto the Lord; Trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.

Psalm 34:10 KJV 1900

The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: But they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing.

Deuteronomy 28:2–8 KJV 1900

And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God. Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field. Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep. Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store. Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out. The Lord shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways. The Lord shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.

Matthew 19:29 KJV 1900

And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.

Joshua 1:8 KJV 1900

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.

Proverbs 13:22 KJV 1900

A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: And the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

Matthew 6:31–33 KJV 1900

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Philippians 4:19 KJV 1900

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

C. You are having marital problems.

“Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you” (). , ; ; ; ; ;

Ephesians 4:31–32 KJV 1900

Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Genesis 2:18 KJV 1900

And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.

Genesis 2:24 KJV 1900

Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.

Ephesians 5:21–33 KJV 1900

Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

1 Peter 3:1–11 KJV 1900

Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.

Romans 13:10 KJV 1900

Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

Proverbs 3:5–6 KJV 1900

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.

1 Peter 1:22 KJV 1900

Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:

D. You are in grief.

“When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee” (). ; ; ; ;

Isaiah 43:2 KJV 1900

When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; Neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.

2 Corinthians 1:3–4 KJV 1900

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

Isaiah 61:1–3 KJV 1900

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; Because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, To give unto them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they might be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.

Psalm 23:4 KJV 1900

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Isaiah 41:10 KJV 1900

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: Be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; Yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Revelation 21:4 KJV 1900

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

E. You need confidence.

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (). ; ; ; ;

Philippians 4:13 KJV 1900

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Hebrews 10:35–36 KJV 1900

Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

Philippians 1:6 KJV 1900

Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

1 John 5:14–15 KJV 1900

Zechariah 4:6 KJV 1900

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.

Proverbs 3:26 KJV 1900

For the Lord shall be thy confidence, And shall keep thy foot from being taken.

F. You are discouraged.

“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” (). ; ; ; ; ; ;

John 14:27 KJV 1900

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.

Isaiah 51:11 KJV 1900

Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, And come with singing unto Zion; And everlasting joy shall be upon their head: They shall obtain gladness and joy; And sorrow and mourning shall flee away.

1 Peter 1:6–7 KJV 1900

Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

Philippians 4:6–8 KJV 1900

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Psalm 138:7 KJV 1900

Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: Thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, And thy right hand shall save me.

John 14:1 KJV 1900

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

Hebrews 10:35–36 KJV 1900

Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

Psalm 27:1–14 KJV 1900

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, They stumbled and fell. Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: Though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident. One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: In the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; He shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: Therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord. Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice: Have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek. Hide not thy face far from me; Put not thy servant away in anger: Thou hast been my help; leave me not, Neither forsake me, O God of my salvation. When my father and my mother forsake me, Then the Lord will take me up. Teach me thy way, O Lord, And lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies. Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: For false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty. I had fainted, unless I had believed To see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord: Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: Wait, I say, on the Lord.

G. You are experiencing fear.

“Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken” (). ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; , , ; ; , ;

Proverbs 3:25–26 KJV 1900

Be not afraid of sudden fear, Neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. For the Lord shall be thy confidence, And shall keep thy foot from being taken.

2 Timothy 1:7 KJV 1900

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Romans 8:15 KJV 1900

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

1 John 4:18 KJV 1900

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Psalm 91:1 KJV 1900

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

Psalm 91:4–7 KJV 1900

He shall cover thee with his feathers, And under his wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; Nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; Nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, And ten thousand at thy right hand; But it shall not come nigh thee.

Psalm 91:10–11 KJV 1900

There shall no evil befall thee, Neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, To keep thee in all thy ways.

Isaiah 59:14 KJV 1900

And judgment is turned away backward, And justice standeth afar off: For truth is fallen in the street, And equity cannot enter.

Psalm 56:11 KJV 1900

In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid What man can do unto me.

Psalm 23:4–5 KJV 1900

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Romans 8:29 KJV 1900

For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.

Romans 8:31 KJV 1900

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

Romans 8:35–39 KJV 1900

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Psalm 31:24 KJV 1900

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, All ye that hope in the Lord.

Psalm 27:1 KJV 1900

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalm 27:3 KJV 1900

Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: Though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.

Hebrews 13:6 KJV 1900

So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

H. You are deserted by loved ones.

“Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him” (). ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;

Psalm 91:14–15 KJV 1900

Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

Psalm 9:10 KJV 1900

And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: For thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.

Psalm 27:10 KJV 1900

When my father and my mother forsake me, Then the Lord will take me up.

Matthew 28:20 KJV 1900

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

2 Corinthians 4:9 KJV 1900

Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

1 Peter 5:7 KJV 1900

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Isaiah 49:15–16 KJV 1900

Can a woman forget her sucking child, That she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? Yea, they may forget, Yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; Thy walls are continually before me.

Psalm 43:5 KJV 1900

Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? Hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, Who is the health of my countenance, and my God.

Hebrews 10:23 KJV 1900

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)

Psalm 138:8 KJV 1900

The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: Thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: Forsake not the works of thine own hands.

I. You do not understand God’s ways.

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (). ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;

Isaiah 55:8–9 KJV 1900

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, Neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are my ways higher than your ways, And my thoughts than your thoughts.

Jeremiah 33:3 KJV 1900

Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.

Romans 8:35–37 KJV 1900

1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV 1900

Psalm 34:19 KJV 1900

Many are the afflictions of the righteous: But the Lord delivereth him out of them all.

Psalm 55:22 KJV 1900

Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.

Isaiah 41:10 KJV 1900

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: Be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; Yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Romans 8:28 KJV 1900

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Psalm 18:30 KJV 1900

As for God, his way is perfect: The word of the Lord is tried: He is a buckler to all those that trust in him.

Hebrews 10:23 KJV 1900

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)

Psalm 138:8 KJV 1900

The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: Thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: Forsake not the works of thine own hands.

Lesson four

Choosing A Local Church

“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” ().

Hebrews 10:24–25 KJV 1900

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

I. The Universal Church

A. The body of Christ and more The universal “Church” is composed of all the saved of all the world.

It differs from the local church primarily in scope and government. The universal Church answers to Jesus Christ through the Holy Ghost. ; The relationship of Jesus Christ to the Church is described through a number of symbols in the New Testament:

Hebrews 12:22–23 KJV 1900

But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,

1 Corinthians 12:12–27 KJV 1900

For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 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. For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

1. The Head and the body ; ; , ; ; ;

Romans 12:4–5 KJV 1900

For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

1 Corinthians 6:15 KJV 1900

Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid.

1 Corinthians 12:12–13 KJV 1900

1 Corinthians 12:27 KJV 1900

Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

Ephesians 4:4 KJV 1900

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;

Ephesians 5:30 KJV 1900

For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

Colossians 1:18 KJV 1900

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.

2. The Bridegroom and the bride ; ;

2 Corinthians 11:2 KJV 1900

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.

Ephesians 5:22–32 KJV 1900

Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

Revelation 21:9 KJV 1900

And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife.

3. The Vine and the branches

John 15:1–5 KJV 1900

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. 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. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 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.

4. The Shepherd and the sheep ; ;

John 10:11 KJV 1900

I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

Hebrews 13:20 KJV 1900

Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,

1 Peter 5:4 KJV 1900

And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

5. The High Priest and the kingdom of priests , ; ; ; ; ; ; ;

Hebrews 2:9 KJV 1900

But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.

Hebrews 2:17 KJV 1900

Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

Hebrews 3:1 KJV 1900

Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

Hebrews 4:14–16 KJV 1900

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Hebrews 5:9–10 KJV 1900

And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.

1 Peter 2:9 KJV 1900

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Revelation 1:6 KJV 1900

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

Revelation 5:10 KJV 1900

And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

Revelation 20:6 KJV 1900

Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.

6. The Cornerstone and the living stones ; ;

Ephesians 2:19–22 KJV 1900

Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

Hebrews 2:3–8 KJV 1900

How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world to come, whereof we speak. But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the son of man, that thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honour, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.

1 Peter 2:4–5 KJV 1900

To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

B. The mystery of God The present age, which is called the “Church Age,” or the “Age of Grace,” or the “Age of Faith,” was initiated only after Israel had rejected her Messiah, Jesus Christ. It was never revealed fully to the prophets, or even to the angels, that the church age was part of God’s great redemptive plan.

In fact, if the Jews had accepted Jesus as their Messiah, it would never have occurred as we know it (see , and ).

Romans 16:25–26 KJV 1900

Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:

Ephesians 3:1–5 KJV 1900

For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

The Church Age was kept a secret for two reasons.

The first reason was to guarantee the Jews a full opportunity to accept Messiah and usher in an earthly kingdom in which Israel would become a nation of priests and Christ would rule the world from an earthly throne.

If the Jews had known the alternative, they would have had reasons to accept Messiah other than through obedience and love for God (see ). They would have known the alternative was ascendancy for the Gentiles. On the other hand, if they still rejected their Messiah, they would have the excuse that it was already prophesied and thus unavoidable. In such case they would be exonerated from all guilt.

Romans 11:25 KJV 1900

For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.

The second reason the Church Age was never revealed was that Satan would never have arranged to have Jesus die on the cross if he had realized that it was the key part of the redemptive process.

Therefore the Church Age was never revealed until after Christ had risen from the dead and ascended to the Father. The apostles were given the task of introducing the Church to the world. They were given special powers to heal, speak in foreign languages, and so on in order to accomplish their task (see and ). Colossinas 1:24–27; 2:1–2; 4:2; ; ; ; ; ;

Ephesians 3:6–11 KJV 1900

That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:

1 Corinthians 2:6–9 KJV 1900

Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

1 Corinthians 4:1 KJV 1900

Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

1 Corinthians 15:51–54 KJV 1900

Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

Ephesians 1:3–14 KJV 1900

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. 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, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

Ephesians 6:18–20 KJV 1900

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

1 Timothy 3:16 KJV 1900

And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

Revelation 10:7 KJV 1900

But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.

II. The Local Church

A. What is a local church?

A local church is a body of saved people which serves the Lord in a specific area. ; ; ;

2 Corinthians 1:1 KJV 1900

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:

Galatians 1:1–2 KJV 1900

Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;) And all the brethren which are with me, unto the churches of Galatia:

Ephesians 1:1 KJV 1900

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus:

Colossians 1:1–2 KJV 1900

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother, To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

B. What is the mission of a local church?

The local church actually has a three primary missions.

1. The salvation of sinners

Acts 2:46–47 KJV 1900

And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

2. The edification of the saints ; When you were saved, you became one of the saints of God ; ; ;

1 Timothy 1:1–4 KJV 1900

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope; Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord. As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine, Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.

1 Corinthians 1:4–5 KJV 1900

I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;

1 Corinthians 1:1–2 KJV 1900

Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

Romans 1:7 KJV 1900

To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 14:19 KJV 1900

Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 KJV 1900

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

3. The glorification of God through the Lord Jesus Christ ; ; ;

Romans 15:6 KJV 1900

That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Thessalonians 1:11–12 KJV 1900

Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 16:27 KJV 1900

To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.

Philippians 4:20 KJV 1900

Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

C. How is the local church governed?

“Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons” ().

Philippians 1:1 KJV 1900

Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:

1. Bishops (or Elders) now called Pastors, Ministers, etc.

These men are given authority over the individual members of the congregation in all spiritual matters. ;

1 Timothy 3:1–7 KJV 1900

This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Titus 1:5–9 KJV 1900

For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

2. Deacons or lay-leaders These men are to lead the congregation by example and to assist the pastors.

4 • Lesson Four

1 Timothy 3:8–13 KJV 1900

Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

D. Why should I be involved in a local church?

Besides being a commandment of Jesus Christ (), being a member of a local church provides many benefits to the sincere Christian. A few of these are:

Hebrews 10:25 KJV 1900

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

1. Encouragement in the faith

Ephesians 3:19–21 KJV 1900

And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

2. Christian fellowship, family, and community ; ;

Acts 2:41 KJV 1900

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

1 John 1:7 KJV 1900

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Hebrews 12:22–23 KJV 1900

3. Exhortation to grow strong in the faith ; ;

1 Peter 2:2 KJV 1900

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

2 Thessalonians 1:3 KJV 1900

We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;

2 Peter 3:18 KJV 1900

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. A place to minister ; ; ;

1 Corinthians 15:58 KJV 1900

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.

Ephesians 4:11–12 KJV 1900

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

Titus 3:1 KJV 1900

Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

1 Peter 1:17 KJV 1900

And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:

5. A place to worship God ; ;

Psalm 45:11 KJV 1900

So shall the king greatly desire thy beauty: For he is thy Lord; and worship thou him.

Psalm 96:9 KJV 1900

O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: Fear before him, all the earth.

Matthew 4:10 KJV 1900

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.

III.What Are the Critical Criteria for Choosing the Right Church?

Choosing the right church is not a matter to be taken lightly. You need to know where the church stands on the important issues of the faith. Many modern churches have strayed far from biblical truths for a variety of reasons. You cannot grow properly in a church that has abandoned some of the principles of the faith. You need to pray for wisdom before making a final choice on a church ().

Choosing A Local Church • 5

James 1:5 KJV 1900

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

The following is a list of the fundamental beliefs that are absolutely necessary for a church to be true to the biblical precepts given for the Church.

Two of these issues have been dealt with in detail in previous lessons and the rest will be dealt with in detail in subsequent lessons.

Therefore no scriptural references will be provided at this time with these statements.

Any prospective church should willingly provide you with a copy of their doctrinal positions that you may compare with the list below.

“Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee” ().

1 Timothy 4:16 KJV 1900

Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

Doctrinal positions a proper church must subscribe to:

A. The Bible is the inerrant, infallible, divinely inspired and preserved Word of God and is the final authority on all matters of faith or areas of life to which it speaks.

B. There is one God, eternally existent in three persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost.

C. Jesus Christ was conceived of the Holy Ghost, born of a virgin, became God manifest in the flesh, lived a sinless life on earth, died on the cross to make an eternally all-sufficient atonement for all sin, rose bodily from death and the grave, ascended to sit at the Father’s right hand, and will one day soon return in personal, bodily form to this Earth as King of kings to reign for 1000 years.

D. Man is born in moral depravity with a sin nature and must be justified and regenerated or born again to have eternal life. Further, that justification is a judicial act of God on the believer’s behalf based solely on the merits of Jesus Christ and that the believer is regenerated and sealed by the power of the Holy Ghost and thus secure in Christ until the day of redemption.

E. Jesus Christ is the head of the Church which is the God ordained organization of the body of all true believers. Further, that the Church is called to observe the ordinances of Christian baptism by immersion and the Lord’s Supper for believers.

F. Final judgment by God is assured for all men resulting in the everlasting blessedness of the redeemed in heaven and the everlasting doom of the unregenerate in the lake of fire with the devil and his angels.

IV.What Are Some Other Criteria for Choosing a Local Church?

A. A church actively involved in ministry to the local community ; ;

Luke 10:27 KJV 1900

And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.

Galatians 5:13–14 KJV 1900

For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Romans 15:1–3 KJV 1900

We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.

B. A church deeply involved in missions ;

Acts 13:1–3 KJV 1900

Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

Matthew 28:19–20 KJV 1900

C. A church that regularly attempts to win others to Christ

Acts 2:47 KJV 1900

Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

D. A church that believes and carefully teaches the Bible as the Word of God and the infallible guide for life ; ;

Acts 17:10–12 KJV 1900

1 Timothy 3:15–16 KJV 1900

But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

2 Timothy 2:15 KJV 1900

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

V. What Is My Obligation to My Church? Your obligations to your new church will change over time.

You must take time to truly understand what the church stands for. You must also allow time to “prove” yourself to your new church.

A. Obligation to learn and grow as a Christian “Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder.

Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time” ().

1 Peter 5:5–6 KJV 1900

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

1. Learn by listening.

Attend as many services as possible to enhance your development as a Christian. ;

Matthew 7:24 KJV 1900

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:

Romans 10:17 KJV 1900

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

2. Learn by giving.

The bulk of your tithes and offerings should go to your local church. ;

Luke 6:38 KJV 1900

1 Corinthians 16:1–2 KJV 1900

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

B. Obligation to participate in ministry As you begin to mature as a Christian, you should look for ministry opportunities.

Ask the Lord to guide you into the right ministry ;

Matthew 4:19 KJV 1900

And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.

James 1:22–25 KJV 1900

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 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: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

C. Obligation to lead As you continue to mature as a Christian, you should be willing to accept leadership positions in the church’s ministries.

Alternatively, you may consider starting a new ministry that is lacking in your church

2 Timothy 2:2 KJV 1900

And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

VI.Some Important Additional Considerations

A. You will be in spiritual subjection to the pastor and his staff. You must consider whether these are the kind of men you can submit to. , ; ;

Hebrews 13:7 KJV 1900

Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

Hebrews 13:17 KJV 1900

Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

1 Peter 5:1–2 KJV 1900

The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;

1 Peter 5:5–6 KJV 1900

B. Are women given positions of authority over men? Women are not to be pastors or in positions of leadership over men. ; ;

1 Timothy 2:12 KJV 1900

But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.

1 Corinthians 11:2–3 KJV 1900

Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.

1 Corinthians 14:34–35 KJV 1900

Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.

C. Can you fit with the congregation comfortably? ; ; ;

8 • Lesson Four

1 Corinthians 1:10 KJV 1900

Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

1 Corinthians 11:17–22 KJV 1900

Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse. For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it. For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you. When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord’s supper. For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken. What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not.

Philippians 1:27 KJV 1900

Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

Colossians 2:1–2 KJV 1900

For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

D. Are “gifts of the Spirit” or “signs and wonders” used carelessly or blasphemously?

; Over the last 100 years or so, a movement has grown within the church to produce the same signs and wonders that the apostles showed in the early church.

1 Corinthians 14:27–28 KJV 1900

If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.

Mark 3:28–29 KJV 1900

Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme: But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation:

This movement has brought much confusion and ungodliness into the church. The people that practice these “miracles” are often very shallow in doctrine and scriptural knowledge, preferring a religion driven by emotion over one driven by knowledge. Much damage has been done to the cause of Christ when so-called healers perform fake healings, sometimes for exorbitant prices ().

2 Peter 2:1–3 KJV 1900

But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.

There is much to suggest that many other gifts of the Spirit are being faked as well. This is blasphemy against the Holy Ghost! If what is going on in the church seems “weird” to you, it may be the Holy Ghost is showing you that church is not for you.

We recommend that you avoid churches where unusual forms of worship are experienced or where people speak in a language you do not understand without an interpreter ().

1 Corinthians 14:27–28 KJV 1900

VII.A Biblical Exhortation The Church is a God-ordained organism of which all born again, bloodwashed Christians are automatically a part.

However, not all Christians take their part seriously. From the verses quoted at the beginning of this lesson, you can see that God expects His people to assemble themselves together to encourage and assist each other to grow in love and good works. This type of assembly, when done in a proper, organized fashion, produces what we call a local church. According to , our Lord considers this type of assembly to be even more important as we see a certain ‘day’ approaching. This “day,” which incorporates the final 1000 years of this present Earth’s history is almost here. We will go into this in greater detail in a future lesson, but for now we will summarize briefly what this day is all about. The day mentioned in the above verse is alluded to throughout the entire Bible. It is called by several names, but most frequently it is referred to as the “day of the Lord.” The day of the Lord begins with a “rapture” event.

Hebrews 10:25 KJV 1900

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

A rapture is a bodily removal of the saints of God (that’s you and I) without the intervention of death (see and ). At this time, these people will receive a glorified body that cannot get sick, feel pain, be injured, or have needs.

1 Corinthians 15:51–52 KJV 1900

1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 KJV 1900

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. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

They will truly have everlasting life. The rapture of the Church will be immediately preceded by the resurrection of the righteous dead whose souls have been in a part of heaven called Paradise.

The resurrected bodies will be glorified in the same manner as the living and the souls of these dead will be reunited with their bodies (see ; ; ).

Philippians 3:20–21 KJV 1900

For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

1 John 3:2–3 KJV 1900

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

1 Corinthians 15:35–38 KJV 1900

But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body.

Immediately following the initial rapture, will be a 7 year period known as the “tribulation.”

10 • Lesson Four

It will be characterized by devastating natural disasters, plagues, wars, and many other severe judgments from a furious God which will claim billions of lives. These judgments will result from an open rebellion and rejection of God in favor of a man the Bible calls the “man of sin” or “Antichrist.”

The tribulation will end with a final war, called the “battle of Armageddon” in which millions of people from all nations will assemble to attack and destroy Israel. At this moment, Jesus Christ will return in bodily form and rescue the Jews from extinction.

He will slaughter every one of Israel’s enemies and set up an earthly throne from which He will reign for 1000 years. Many of those in His church will also return and reign with Him.

This 1000 year period, known as the “millennium” will be a time of peace and righteousness because punishment for sin will be swift, harsh, and sure.

The millennium will end with a final rebellion against God in which the last of the enemies of God will be killed.

After that there will be a final resurrection and judgment and then this entire present universe will be destroyed by fire.

God will then create a new heaven and a new Earth, untouched by sin, where we will live forever more. This day of the Lord is now fast approaching.

We believe that, unless you are terminally ill, there is a very good likelihood that it will arrive within your lifetime–no matter how old you are!

So get involved in a local church.

Get involved in working for the Lord.

The time is very short. There are so many unsaved people.

The work is very great.

“Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame” ().

1 Corinthians 15:34 KJV 1900

Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.

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