BIBLICAL SALVATION
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Have you started a relationship with Jesus?
Have you started a relationship with Jesus?
When were you born into the family of God?
When were you born into the family of God?
When did you put your faith and truth in Jesus Christ for your salvation?
When did you put your faith and truth in Jesus Christ for your salvation?
As one is Born into this earthly life so one must be born again into their eternal life.
As one is Born into this earthly life so one must be born again into their eternal life.
So then my question when were you born again?
So then my question when were you born again?
If you cannot pinpoint the time you were born again then it leaves the ,question have I been born again?
If you cannot pinpoint the time you were born again then it leaves the ,question have I been born again?
BIBLICAL SALVATION
BIBLICAL SALVATION
Memory Verse: Matthew 4:4 Lesson Verses: 1 John 5:11,12
4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
I. Introduction
I. Introduction
The decision to trust Jesus Christ as the Saviour of your soul is the greatest decision you could ever make!
The decision to trust Jesus Christ as the Saviour of your soul is the greatest decision you could ever make!
This lesson will briefly explain what happens when a person gets saved, and how the decision to trust Christ forever affects their relation-ship with God.
This lesson will briefly explain what happens when a person gets saved, and how the decision to trust Christ forever affects their relation-ship with God.
II. Is Anyone “Good?”
II. Is Anyone “Good?”
A. The spiritual condition of everyone is described as what?
A. The spiritual condition of everyone is described as what?
Look in Romans 3:10, and 23, where we are described as _______________.
Look in Romans 3:10, and 23, where we are described as _______________.
10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
B. What does the Bible say “sin” is? (1 John 3:4) _______________________ _____________________.
B. What does the Bible say “sin” is? (1 John 3:4) _______________________ _____________________.
4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.
To “trans-gress” is to “cross a line” that God laid-out showing what is right and wrong. When we cross His laws (break through them), we sin.
We call it “breaking God’s laws.” Everybody could be doing something, but if God said NOT to do it, and we go ahead anyway, then we have sinned.
C. God says, “There is ________ righteous; no not one” (Romans 3:10).
C. God says, “There is ________ righteous; no not one” (Romans 3:10).
10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
III. God’s Absolute Laws of Right and Wrong
III. God’s Absolute Laws of Right and Wrong
A. Most everyone agrees that we all break a few of God’s laws here and there, but hardly anyone believes these sins are serious enough to keep them out of heaven.
A. Most everyone agrees that we all break a few of God’s laws here and there, but hardly anyone believes these sins are serious enough to keep them out of heaven.
The Bible says otherwise!
The Bible says otherwise!
B. God laid out the requirements for entrance into His heaven in a simple list, and that requirement is perfection - having NO sin in us at all.
B. God laid out the requirements for entrance into His heaven in a simple list, and that requirement is perfection - having NO sin in us at all.
C. If you think you don’t sin, then God says you are __________ (1 John 1:8)!
C. If you think you don’t sin, then God says you are __________ (1 John 1:8)!
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
D. If you want to try and prove that you don’t sin, take the following test:
D. If you want to try and prove that you don’t sin, take the following test:
E. The above list is not anything new. What do we call this list? Not the Ten Suggestions, but God’s Ten ___________________.
E. The above list is not anything new. What do we call this list? Not the Ten Suggestions, but God’s Ten ___________________.
You find this list in every Bible in Exodus 20:1-17.
You find this list in every Bible in Exodus 20:1-17.
1 And God spake all these words, saying, 2 I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me. 4 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: 5 Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; 6 And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. 7 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. 8 Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. 9 Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: 10 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: 11 For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it. 12 Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. 13 Thou shalt not kill. 14 Thou shalt not commit adultery. 15 Thou shalt not steal. 16 Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. 17 Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour’s.
F. So, to be classified as a sinner does not only mean being a murderer, or a thief, but it means when a person does ANY sin (James 2:9,10; like stealing, cursing, rebelling,
F. So, to be classified as a sinner does not only mean being a murderer, or a thief, but it means when a person does ANY sin (James 2:9,10; like stealing, cursing, rebelling,
9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.
10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
G. Compare this truth to a tree – a small tree can be known for what it is, even when it has no fruit.
G. Compare this truth to a tree – a small tree can be known for what it is, even when it has no fruit.
The fruit (let’s say, apples) comes later, but the tree will produce apples because it is an APPLE tree. In the same way, a person sins because he/she is a sinner.
The fruit (let’s say, apples) comes later, but the tree will produce apples because it is an APPLE tree. In the same way, a person sins because he/she is a sinner.
H. Note that if you ticked NEVER in number 6 above, remember that God says “Whoso-ever _________ his brother is a __________: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” (1John 3:15)
H. Note that if you ticked NEVER in number 6 above, remember that God says “Whoso-ever _________ his brother is a __________: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” (1John 3:15)
15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
I. If you ticked NEVER in number 7 above, remember that Jesus said, “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to _______ after her hath committed __________ with her already in his heart.” (Matthew 5:28).
I. If you ticked NEVER in number 7 above, remember that Jesus said, “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to _______ after her hath committed __________ with her already in his heart.” (Matthew 5:28).
J. Even if you only ticked a few of the above NEVERS, then you probably are a pretty good person in man’s eyes, but in God’s eyes, you still are a SINNER (a law breaker), and you have proven God to be correct, and ought to now realise the truth that you need something to save you from the coming penalty for your sin.
J. Even if you only ticked a few of the above NEVERS, then you probably are a pretty good person in man’s eyes, but in God’s eyes, you still are a SINNER (a law breaker), and you have proven God to be correct, and ought to now realise the truth that you need something to save you from the coming penalty for your sin.
IV. The Need for Salvation
IV. The Need for Salvation
A. Ok, so we are sinners – we break God’s laws. We break a lot of them!
A. Ok, so we are sinners – we break God’s laws. We break a lot of them!
But, so what? Well, there is a BIG penalty for all our sins. What is it? ________ (Romans 6:23).
But, so what? Well, there is a BIG penalty for all our sins. What is it? ________ (Romans 6:23).
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
B. Notice the word “wages” in Romans 6:23. Wages are what we earn - they are the result of our actions, whether on a job, or as we live our life.
B. Notice the word “wages” in Romans 6:23. Wages are what we earn - they are the result of our actions, whether on a job, or as we live our life.
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
So, every sin we commit, we are only earning “________”. And, that is NOT what we want is it?
So, every sin we commit, we are only earning “________”. And, that is NOT what we want is it?
C. And there are two deaths to worry about.
C. And there are two deaths to worry about.
The first death is the end of your physical life, but it is not the end of your existence.
The first death is the end of your physical life, but it is not the end of your existence.
What lies beyond a person’s death is eter-nity. And if a person dies in their sins, they are condemned to die for an eternity IN A PLACE CALLED HELL.
What lies beyond a person’s death is eter-nity. And if a person dies in their sins, they are condemned to die for an eternity IN A PLACE CALLED HELL.
1. No one normally believes they will end up in a devil’s hell. They would never accept that they deserve such punishment. But what does the Bible say?
1. No one normally believes they will end up in a devil’s hell. They would never accept that they deserve such punishment. But what does the Bible say?
2. The Bible says hell is a real place where Satan, his angels, and all sinful people will spend eternity suffering eternal punishment and separation from God.
2. The Bible says hell is a real place where Satan, his angels, and all sinful people will spend eternity suffering eternal punishment and separation from God.
3. It is no joking matter: There are 162 clear references to hell in the New Testament alone, and 70 of these were made by Jesus himself!
3. It is no joking matter: There are 162 clear references to hell in the New Testament alone, and 70 of these were made by Jesus himself!
They include: Matthew 13:41,42; 5:29,30; 10:28; 11:23,24; 16:18; James 3:6; Revelation 20:13,14.
They include: Matthew 13:41,42; 5:29,30; 10:28; 11:23,24; 16:18; James 3:6; Revelation 20:13,14.
41 The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;
42 And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
28 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.
23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.
24 But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee.
18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.
13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.
14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.
D. But WHY did God create Hell?
D. But WHY did God create Hell?
1. God created hell because He is a righteous and holy God and cannot allow sin in His Heaven (Revelation 21:8).
1. God created hell because He is a righteous and holy God and cannot allow sin in His Heaven (Revelation 21:8).
8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
2. Since all men and women, boys and girls are sinners, God’s Son came into the world to save us from hell's punishment.
2. Since all men and women, boys and girls are sinners, God’s Son came into the world to save us from hell's punishment.
How did Jesus do that? By living a perfect sinless life that none of us could ever live, and then die a death in place of all mankind, be buried for three full days and nights, and then triumphantly raised again from the grave!
How did Jesus do that? By living a perfect sinless life that none of us could ever live, and then die a death in place of all mankind, be buried for three full days and nights, and then triumphantly raised again from the grave!
Jesus did all this so that sinful people could receive the free gift of eternal _________ (Romans 6:23), and thus have free access to heaven.
Jesus did all this so that sinful people could receive the free gift of eternal _________ (Romans 6:23), and thus have free access to heaven.
3. It is only by believing Jesus' finished work on the cross that sinners such as you and I can ever be allowed into Heaven.
3. It is only by believing Jesus' finished work on the cross that sinners such as you and I can ever be allowed into Heaven.
But those who do not accept what Jesus did for them are destined to go to hell because they remain in their sins (John 3:18,36)!
But those who do not accept what Jesus did for them are destined to go to hell because they remain in their sins (John 3:18,36)!
18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
V. The Way of Salvation is found in a Person, Not a Religion
V. The Way of Salvation is found in a Person, Not a Religion
A. When Jesus died on the cross, What did God make available to everyone?
A. When Jesus died on the cross, What did God make available to everyone?
1. “____________ life” (John 3:16,17) – think about it! Instead of an eternity in hell!
1. “____________ life” (John 3:16,17) – think about it! Instead of an eternity in hell!
16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
2. But to get eternal life, Jesus said we “must be born _______” (John 3:3,7).
2. But to get eternal life, Jesus said we “must be born _______” (John 3:3,7).
3 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.
7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
3. Read Romans 6:23 again. Thankfully, God doesn’t just show us our condition (as sinners), and then abandon us – He offers us a free gift.
3. Read Romans 6:23 again. Thankfully, God doesn’t just show us our condition (as sinners), and then abandon us – He offers us a free gift.
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The “______ of God” (which CANNOT be earned) is the opposite of the wages of our sin!
The “______ of God” (which CANNOT be earned) is the opposite of the wages of our sin!
4. Specifically, that free GIFT that God offers is called, “_____________ life.”
4. Specifically, that free GIFT that God offers is called, “_____________ life.”
B. Jesus was God’s gift to us, like an innocent lamb, taking the place of a sinful world. John the Baptist cried out “Behold the _________ of God which taketh away the _______ of the world” (John 1:29).
B. Jesus was God’s gift to us, like an innocent lamb, taking the place of a sinful world. John the Baptist cried out “Behold the _________ of God which taketh away the _______ of the world” (John 1:29).
29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
Jesus is our substitute in death so that we can receive the gift of eternal life!
Jesus is our substitute in death so that we can receive the gift of eternal life!
C. What does salvation cost?
C. What does salvation cost?
1. God’s gift is given to us freely, requiring only a committed choice on our part to accept it. Take it as your own.
1. God’s gift is given to us freely, requiring only a committed choice on our part to accept it. Take it as your own.
2. God’s gift of eternal life is provided FREE to you through the willingness of Jesus Christ to take your and my place in death and God’s judgment on the cross! There is no other way to heaven than through Jesus alone (John 14:6)!
2. God’s gift of eternal life is provided FREE to you through the willingness of Jesus Christ to take your and my place in death and God’s judgment on the cross! There is no other way to heaven than through Jesus alone (John 14:6)!
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
D. Did you know that Ephesians 2:8,9, says it is impossible for a sinner to save them-selves from the penalty of their sin through good works?
D. Did you know that Ephesians 2:8,9, says it is impossible for a sinner to save them-selves from the penalty of their sin through good works?
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
1. Notice getting saved is “not of _________, lest any man should boast.”
1. Notice getting saved is “not of _________, lest any man should boast.”
2. What do we normally think are good works that should get us into heaven? _________________________________________________________________
2. What do we normally think are good works that should get us into heaven? _________________________________________________________________
3. Notice in Titus 3:5 that it is “not by works of ____________________…”
3. Notice in Titus 3:5 that it is “not by works of ____________________…”
5 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. Have you tried to live righteously for any length of time? Yes, No (circle one).
4. Have you tried to live righteously for any length of time? Yes, No (circle one).
Was any of your righteous works good enough to get you saved? Yes, No.
Was any of your righteous works good enough to get you saved? Yes, No.
5. The gift of Salvation is only obtained by surrender to Christ - allow Jesus to do all the saving of your soul – with you no longer trying to do all the right things to earn heaven.
5. The gift of Salvation is only obtained by surrender to Christ - allow Jesus to do all the saving of your soul – with you no longer trying to do all the right things to earn heaven.
So stop working at being good, and just finally accept what Jesus did for you in your place. Believe it with all your heart that Jesus did it for YOU!
So stop working at being good, and just finally accept what Jesus did for you in your place. Believe it with all your heart that Jesus did it for YOU!
E. Just WHO are you going to trust?
E. Just WHO are you going to trust?
1. An honourable man, named Jesus of Nazareth, who lived 2,000 years ago in Gali-lee?
1. An honourable man, named Jesus of Nazareth, who lived 2,000 years ago in Gali-lee?
Who did amazing miracles like raising the dead, and healing blind and deaf people; who taught people how to pray, and how to love one another; who died at the hands of the Roman soldiers on a cross?
Who did amazing miracles like raising the dead, and healing blind and deaf people; who taught people how to pray, and how to love one another; who died at the hands of the Roman soldiers on a cross?
Are you trusting in Jesus the MAN?
Are you trusting in Jesus the MAN?
2. Or are you trusting the GOD who became a man, who willingly took your and my place in death on the cross as a Man, in the place of all men and women every-where, and who raised Himself out of the tomb and lives forevermore to give LIFE to all that believe on Him?
2. Or are you trusting the GOD who became a man, who willingly took your and my place in death on the cross as a Man, in the place of all men and women every-where, and who raised Himself out of the tomb and lives forevermore to give LIFE to all that believe on Him?
Are you trusting Jesus the Son of God?
Are you trusting Jesus the Son of God?
3. One belief will leave you lost and unconverted. The other will transform your life!
3. One belief will leave you lost and unconverted. The other will transform your life!
VI. Let's explore the two births the Bible talks about
VI. Let's explore the two births the Bible talks about
A. Our first birth is our PHYSICAL birth (read all of John 3:1-7):
A. Our first birth is our PHYSICAL birth (read all of John 3:1-7):
1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: 2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. 3 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. 4 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? 5 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. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
1. The first birth is a water birth (John 3:5). It is not baptism. We all start our life in water. Every human is born out of a water sack in the womb.
1. The first birth is a water birth (John 3:5). It is not baptism. We all start our life in water. Every human is born out of a water sack in the womb.
5 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.
2. Your first birth comes from your physical parents. Their “flesh” produced your _________ (John 3:6).
2. Your first birth comes from your physical parents. Their “flesh” produced your _________ (John 3:6).
6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
3. But that is not all there is to you! You are more than just bone and muscle and blood and brain.
3. But that is not all there is to you! You are more than just bone and muscle and blood and brain.
4. Take a look at the chart below.
4. Take a look at the chart below.
5. You are a THREE-part being, with a body, a soul and a spirit.
5. You are a THREE-part being, with a body, a soul and a spirit.
6. The most important part of You is the box in the middle labelled SOUL:
6. The most important part of You is the box in the middle labelled SOUL:
a. Your soul is the real you – the part that feels, wishes, dreams, and chooses.
a. Your soul is the real you – the part that feels, wishes, dreams, and chooses.
b. Your body is what God gave your soul to interact with this world.
b. Your body is what God gave your soul to interact with this world.
c. Your spirit is what God gave your soul to interact with Him.
c. Your spirit is what God gave your soul to interact with Him.
7. In simpler words, the real you (your soul) is invisible, inside you, using your body to interact with this world, and using your spirit to attempt to interact with God.
7. In simpler words, the real you (your soul) is invisible, inside you, using your body to interact with this world, and using your spirit to attempt to interact with God.
8. What is the Soul?
8. What is the Soul?
a. The soul is part of the trinity of man (1Thes 5:23). Each part of you is vital, but Jesus said the _______ is the most important (Matt 16:26)
a. The soul is part of the trinity of man (1Thes 5:23). Each part of you is vital, but Jesus said the _______ is the most important (Matt 16:26)
23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
b. It is called the hidden or the inner man (1Peter 3:3,4; 2Corinthians 4:16-18)
b. It is called the hidden or the inner man (1Peter 3:3,4; 2Corinthians 4:16-18)
3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
4 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.
16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
c. The soul is the source of your emotions, your will, the ability to reason, and understand. It is your awareness of yourself.
c. The soul is the source of your emotions, your will, the ability to reason, and understand. It is your awareness of yourself.
d. In other words, your soul is the real you – what you really are, what you think, how you feel, and why you feel that way.
d. In other words, your soul is the real you – what you really are, what you think, how you feel, and why you feel that way.
e. It is separate from the body – an immaterial, invisible part of you (2Cor 4:18).
e. It is separate from the body – an immaterial, invisible part of you (2Cor 4:18).
18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
9. Everything would be fine, except the part of you that is supposed to be able to communicate with God (your spirit) is DEAD.
9. Everything would be fine, except the part of you that is supposed to be able to communicate with God (your spirit) is DEAD.
a. Sin by our first parents killed that part of us on the inside (Gen 2:17). Who were our first parents? ____________ and ____________.
a. Sin by our first parents killed that part of us on the inside (Gen 2:17). Who were our first parents? ____________ and ____________.
17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
b. The only way to regenerate (give life to) the spirit is by being born again, but this time, on the inside (Ephesians 2:1; Titus 3:5)!
b. The only way to regenerate (give life to) the spirit is by being born again, but this time, on the inside (Ephesians 2:1; Titus 3:5)!
B. The second birth is your SPIRITUAL birth (John 3:5,6):
B. The second birth is your SPIRITUAL birth (John 3:5,6):
5 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.
6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
1. Your first birth only gave you human life – not eternal life. You HAVE to have a SECOND birth.
1. Your first birth only gave you human life – not eternal life. You HAVE to have a SECOND birth.
2. This birth can only come from God. John 4:24 says that “God is a __________.” He is not flesh like we humans are. According to John 3:6, His Spirit will produce _________ in the life of a sinner if they would just fully believe on His Son, Jesus Christ (John 7:37-39)!
2. This birth can only come from God. John 4:24 says that “God is a __________.” He is not flesh like we humans are. According to John 3:6, His Spirit will produce _________ in the life of a sinner if they would just fully believe on His Son, Jesus Christ (John 7:37-39)!
24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. 39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
3. The second birth involves trusting God’s ________ to be true (1Peter 1:23). You can fully and completely trust the death of Jesus Christ to be your payment for your sin, because God said in His word you could, and that He would give you a free gift, eternal salvation - eternal life!
3. The second birth involves trusting God’s ________ to be true (1Peter 1:23). You can fully and completely trust the death of Jesus Christ to be your payment for your sin, because God said in His word you could, and that He would give you a free gift, eternal salvation - eternal life!
23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
4. If you didn’t have God’s perfect word to discover all this, how could you know what to believe at all?
4. If you didn’t have God’s perfect word to discover all this, how could you know what to believe at all?
Everyone’s guess would be as good as another’s. No wonder there are so many religious wars!
Everyone’s guess would be as good as another’s. No wonder there are so many religious wars!
C. Therefore, there are only two “births” that a person can experience.
C. Therefore, there are only two “births” that a person can experience.
1. The first birth gives only temporary life - it came from temporary parents didn’t it? And it ends in death because of _________ (Rom 5:12) in all of us.
1. The first birth gives only temporary life - it came from temporary parents didn’t it? And it ends in death because of _________ (Rom 5:12) in all of us.
12 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:
2. The second birth is only experienced by a person who turns to Christ for salvation from sin. It never ends because it came from an eternal Parent – _____ (1John 5:1)!
2. The second birth is only experienced by a person who turns to Christ for salvation from sin. It never ends because it came from an eternal Parent – _____ (1John 5:1)!
1 Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.
3. The first birth makes you physically a child of your parents. The second birth makes you spiritually and eternally a child of ____ (John 1:11,12).
3. The first birth makes you physically a child of your parents. The second birth makes you spiritually and eternally a child of ____ (John 1:11,12).
11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
D. A person desperately needs Jesus Christ to save them, because without Him, there is no other _____ to God (John 14:6).
D. A person desperately needs Jesus Christ to save them, because without Him, there is no other _____ to God (John 14:6).
You cannot look to Allah, or Buddha, or Mary, etc., to get to God!
You cannot look to Allah, or Buddha, or Mary, etc., to get to God!
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
1. It is SIN that _____________ all of humanity from God (Isaiah 59:2).
1. It is SIN that _____________ all of humanity from God (Isaiah 59:2).
2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God,
And your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.
2. And no one can take away sin except __________ ___________ (John 1:29).
2. And no one can take away sin except __________ ___________ (John 1:29).
29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
3. If a person dies without having their sin paid-off by faith in what Jesus Christ did on the cross, there is only one destiny for them (John 3:36; Matthew 23:33; Mat-thew 25:41; Revelation 20:10-15).
3. If a person dies without having their sin paid-off by faith in what Jesus Christ did on the cross, there is only one destiny for them (John 3:36; Matthew 23:33; Mat-thew 25:41; Revelation 20:10-15).
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
33 Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?
10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.
11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
a. What is that destiny? _____________________________
a. What is that destiny? _____________________________
b. That’s why God calls upon everyone everywhere to ____________ (Acts 17:30) and be saved when? ___________ (2 Corinthians 6:2)
b. That’s why God calls upon everyone everywhere to ____________ (Acts 17:30) and be saved when? ___________ (2 Corinthians 6:2)
30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
c. “Succoured” means to help you. That means, God will even help you believe His Son when you don’t know how!
c. “Succoured” means to help you. That means, God will even help you believe His Son when you don’t know how!
E. Salvation is NOT a "process" - it is instantly given (Luke 18:9-14).
E. Salvation is NOT a "process" - it is instantly given (Luke 18:9-14).
9 And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: 10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. 12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. 13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
1. The Pharisee thought he was good enough.
1. The Pharisee thought he was good enough.
2. The Publican (a public official, greedy tax collector) easily admitted he was a “__________” (Luke 18:13).
2. The Publican (a public official, greedy tax collector) easily admitted he was a “__________” (Luke 18:13).
13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
3. There is always a process to the humbling of a person, but when they know they are lost, and in need of forgiveness, once salvation is asked for, it is INSTANTLY given as a free gift by God – because of Christ (Rom 6:23)!
3. There is always a process to the humbling of a person, but when they know they are lost, and in need of forgiveness, once salvation is asked for, it is INSTANTLY given as a free gift by God – because of Christ (Rom 6:23)!
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
F. What must a person do in order to be saved from hell (born again)?
F. What must a person do in order to be saved from hell (born again)?
1. ______________ (Acts 20:20,21; 2Peter 3:9). Repentance is a determined choice to turn away FROM sin, and turn TO Jesus Christ for salvation. It is being very sorry for your sin, and hating it! It is different from “penance” which is you trying to PAY for your sinfulness. You cannot pay for your sins - only Jesus can!
1. ______________ (Acts 20:20,21; 2Peter 3:9). Repentance is a determined choice to turn away FROM sin, and turn TO Jesus Christ for salvation. It is being very sorry for your sin, and hating it! It is different from “penance” which is you trying to PAY for your sinfulness. You cannot pay for your sins - only Jesus can!
20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,
21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
2. ______________ (John 1:11,12; John 5:24; 6:28,29; Acts 16:30,31).
2. ______________ (John 1:11,12; John 5:24; 6:28,29; Acts 16:30,31).
11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
24 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.
28 Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?
29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.
30 And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?
31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
a. What does it mean to “believe on Jesus?”
a. What does it mean to “believe on Jesus?”
1) Not just agree with the Bible with our head (even “the devils also ___________, and tremble”; James 2:19)
1) Not just agree with the Bible with our head (even “the devils also ___________, and tremble”; James 2:19)
19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
2) But it means to understand from the heart that the only payment God will accept for your sins is the death of Jesus in your place (1John 2:1,2; 5:4,5).
2) But it means to understand from the heart that the only payment God will accept for your sins is the death of Jesus in your place (1John 2:1,2; 5:4,5).
1 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:
2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?
3) And it means to accept by faith His payment for your sins and allow Him to come into your life and save you FROM your sins!
3) And it means to accept by faith His payment for your sins and allow Him to come into your life and save you FROM your sins!
b. The word “propitiation” in 1 John 2:2, means “full payment.” God had to do more than just “forgive” sins, He had to completely pay-off all the broken laws that had mounted up against us, and that is what Jesus’ death did - it paid in full all our sin debt!
b. The word “propitiation” in 1 John 2:2, means “full payment.” God had to do more than just “forgive” sins, He had to completely pay-off all the broken laws that had mounted up against us, and that is what Jesus’ death did - it paid in full all our sin debt!
2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
G. Read carefully Romans 10:13,17. Can you be sure Christ will save you if you ask Him to do so? Yes, or No (circle one)
G. Read carefully Romans 10:13,17. Can you be sure Christ will save you if you ask Him to do so? Yes, or No (circle one)
13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
1. Would you agree that if God said it - that should settle it?
1. Would you agree that if God said it - that should settle it?
Then believe it! That is all Jesus asks of us – just believe with all your heart!
Then believe it! That is all Jesus asks of us – just believe with all your heart!
2. Faith is “confidence” in God’s promise, that He will never lie to you! He promises in His word over and over that He can and will save you!
2. Faith is “confidence” in God’s promise, that He will never lie to you! He promises in His word over and over that He can and will save you!
Have you ever asked the Lord Jesus to save you from your sin and make you a child of God? ________.
Have you ever asked the Lord Jesus to save you from your sin and make you a child of God? ________.
When was that? ___________.
When was that? ___________.
If you have not, will you ask Him, now?
If you have not, will you ask Him, now?
(Revelation 3:20) Yes, or No.
(Revelation 3:20) Yes, or No.
20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
He stands at the door of your heart, knocking, and waiting. The handle is on YOUR side of the door. Open it, and let Him in! THAT’s when you become BORN AGAIN.
VII. The Four ‘R’s of Salvation - Learn these well!
VII. The Four ‘R’s of Salvation - Learn these well!
You can use these four great truths and Scriptures to explain to anybody how to become a born again believer in Jesus Christ!
You can use these four great truths and Scriptures to explain to anybody how to become a born again believer in Jesus Christ!
A. Realize you are a sinner, and are without the necessary righteousness to earn your entrance into heaven (Romans 3:23).
A. Realize you are a sinner, and are without the necessary righteousness to earn your entrance into heaven (Romans 3:23).
God’s law proves that we sin, and that we are in eternal trouble with God because of our sin!
God’s law proves that we sin, and that we are in eternal trouble with God because of our sin!
So, none of us are good enough to live with God as we are! We HAVE to be changed from condemned to forgiven. But how?
So, none of us are good enough to live with God as we are! We HAVE to be changed from condemned to forgiven. But how?
23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
B. Recognize that you cannot fix yourself, but only by God's specific intervention can a person be saved from coming punishment (Titus 3:5).
B. Recognize that you cannot fix yourself, but only by God's specific intervention can a person be saved from coming punishment (Titus 3:5).
None of us have the ability to pay off our sins, no matter how much we try to go to church, say our prayers, and be nice to people!
None of us have the ability to pay off our sins, no matter how much we try to go to church, say our prayers, and be nice to people!
The truth is, no one can be "good enough" to make up for all the bad.
The truth is, no one can be "good enough" to make up for all the bad.
5 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;
C. Repent of your life, and all the sin that filled it (that means, hate the sin that separates you from God, and stop trusting your attempts to be good), and then, give all that you are (sin and all) to the One who loves you and gave Himself for you on the cross (2 Corinthians 7:10).
C. Repent of your life, and all the sin that filled it (that means, hate the sin that separates you from God, and stop trusting your attempts to be good), and then, give all that you are (sin and all) to the One who loves you and gave Himself for you on the cross (2 Corinthians 7:10).
No one truly repents unless they first see themselves as a law-breaker, separated from God, and deserving of hell (John 3:36).
No one truly repents unless they first see themselves as a law-breaker, separated from God, and deserving of hell (John 3:36).
Once you have re-pented, you are then empty of all self-righteousness, and are now ready to…
Once you have re-pented, you are then empty of all self-righteousness, and are now ready to…
10 For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
D. Receive the priceless free gift of eternal life from God by simple faith, asking in prayer for God to save you, all because of Jesus (John 1:12; Ephesians 2:8,9; Romans 10:13)!
D. Receive the priceless free gift of eternal life from God by simple faith, asking in prayer for God to save you, all because of Jesus (John 1:12; Ephesians 2:8,9; Romans 10:13)!
You will need to ask specifically to be saved - don’t be vague or shy with God! And remember: you can ask simply because Jesus Christ paid for all your sins, past, present, and future!
You will need to ask specifically to be saved - don’t be vague or shy with God! And remember: you can ask simply because Jesus Christ paid for all your sins, past, present, and future!
Nothing could be more important than knowing these four truths!
Nothing could be more important than knowing these four truths!
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
VIII. The Completion of A Person’s Salvation
VIII. The Completion of A Person’s Salvation
A. Salvation is a one-time event that changes your destiny forever (from hell, to heaven).
A. Salvation is a one-time event that changes your destiny forever (from hell, to heaven).
It is NOT a “continual process”, nor a “journey” that a person is on!
It is NOT a “continual process”, nor a “journey” that a person is on!
It occurs when a person decides to fully believe on the Lord Jesus Christ to save them from the punish-ment of their sins!
It occurs when a person decides to fully believe on the Lord Jesus Christ to save them from the punish-ment of their sins!
Just like your first birth was a one time event, so also is your second birth!
Just like your first birth was a one time event, so also is your second birth!
Have YOU experienced such an event? Yes or No?
Have YOU experienced such an event? Yes or No?
B. Would you think that your salvation is now dependent upon your ability to live a sin-less, perfect and holy life? (see Galatians 3:11) Yes or No?
B. Would you think that your salvation is now dependent upon your ability to live a sin-less, perfect and holy life? (see Galatians 3:11) Yes or No?
No one can live sinlessly, even after getting saved.
No one can live sinlessly, even after getting saved.
11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
C. So, what KEEPS a person saved? JESUS! He intercedes with God, as ____________ on behalf of a Christian who yields to temptation in a time of weakness?
C. So, what KEEPS a person saved? JESUS! He intercedes with God, as ____________ on behalf of a Christian who yields to temptation in a time of weakness?
(1Timothy 2:5; 1 John 2:1,2).
(1Timothy 2:5; 1 John 2:1,2).
Don’t ever believe that a Christian is perfect - only forgiven.
Don’t ever believe that a Christian is perfect - only forgiven.
5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
1 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:
2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
D. We therefore can never lose our gift of salvation once we have been born again! (Ro-mans 8:37-39; John 10:27-29; Jude 24). Let’s examine why not!
D. We therefore can never lose our gift of salvation once we have been born again! (Ro-mans 8:37-39; John 10:27-29; Jude 24). Let’s examine why not!
27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.
24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,
1. Because we have been ______________ into God’s family - taken from being con-demned sinners, and made into children of God, and heirs of everything that God has (Romans 8:15-17)!
1. Because we have been ______________ into God’s family - taken from being con-demned sinners, and made into children of God, and heirs of everything that God has (Romans 8:15-17)!
We are in God’s family now!
We are in God’s family now!
15 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. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
2. Because we are fully Forgiven - all our sins (past, present and future) were paid-for completely at the cross by Jesus Christ!
2. Because we are fully Forgiven - all our sins (past, present and future) were paid-for completely at the cross by Jesus Christ!
There is NO further payment necessary for us to pay (Ephesians 1:7; Acts 13:38,39)!
There is NO further payment necessary for us to pay (Ephesians 1:7; Acts 13:38,39)!
7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
38 Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:
39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.
3. Because we have been ______________ -
3. Because we have been ______________ -
we exchanged our sinfulness for the righteousness of Jesus Christ (Acts 13:38,39; 2 Corinthians 5:21)!!!
we exchanged our sinfulness for the righteousness of Jesus Christ (Acts 13:38,39; 2 Corinthians 5:21)!!!
38 Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:
39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.
21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Jesus did not justify our sins, but instead, justified US – made us right with God!
Jesus did not justify our sins, but instead, justified US – made us right with God!
IX. Dealing With Sin Once You Are Already Saved
IX. Dealing With Sin Once You Are Already Saved
A. Okay, but what happens now, when a Christian sins?
A. Okay, but what happens now, when a Christian sins?
1. The Holy Spirit first shames us, and makes us aware we are doing wrong.
1. The Holy Spirit first shames us, and makes us aware we are doing wrong.
It is called “reproving” or convicting us – making us know we are guilty (John 16:7,8).
It is called “reproving” or convicting us – making us know we are guilty (John 16:7,8).
7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
2. We won’t enjoy the sin like we used to (Psalm 32:1-5).
2. We won’t enjoy the sin like we used to (Psalm 32:1-5).
1 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
2 Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity,
And in whose spirit there is no guile.
3 When I kept silence, my bones waxed old
Through my roaring all the day long.
4 For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me:
My moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah.
5 I acknowledged my sin unto thee,
And mine iniquity have I not hid.
I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord;
And thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
a. Notice in how disobeying God will affect us. Iniquity is another word for sin:
a. Notice in how disobeying God will affect us. Iniquity is another word for sin:
b. You will age faster.
b. You will age faster.
c. God’s ___________ will be hard against you, not blessing you.
c. God’s ___________ will be hard against you, not blessing you.
d. You will basically “dry up” on the inside like a desert.
d. You will basically “dry up” on the inside like a desert.
e. So, Can a Christian be happy while disobeying God? Yes or No?
e. So, Can a Christian be happy while disobeying God? Yes or No?
3. We will be lovingly chastised by God. Hebrews 12:5-11 explains that God always endeavours to make us mature, and holy in our lives by chastening us when we sin.
3. We will be lovingly chastised by God. Hebrews 12:5-11 explains that God always endeavours to make us mature, and holy in our lives by chastening us when we sin.
5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. 7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? 8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. 9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? 10 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. 11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
a. Chastening means “correcting” NOT punishing. God brings trouble into your life to get you back “on the strait (hard path) and narrow”
a. Chastening means “correcting” NOT punishing. God brings trouble into your life to get you back “on the strait (hard path) and narrow”
b. God chastens His children because He _________ them.
b. God chastens His children because He _________ them.
c. If a person never experiences God’s chastisement, it is evident that person never became a Christian at all and is a _____________ (Heb 12:8) – God calls them illegitimate – not the real thing – a faker.
c. If a person never experiences God’s chastisement, it is evident that person never became a Christian at all and is a _____________ (Heb 12:8) – God calls them illegitimate – not the real thing – a faker.
8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
B. What should a believer do when they sin?
B. What should a believer do when they sin?
1. ___________________ (1 John 1:9). To “confess” means to agree with God about the sinfulness of your life, and especially about specific acts where you broke His direct commandments!
1. ___________________ (1 John 1:9). To “confess” means to agree with God about the sinfulness of your life, and especially about specific acts where you broke His direct commandments!
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
2. ___________________ (Proverbs 28:13). What do you think “forsake” means? _________________________________________________________________
2. ___________________ (Proverbs 28:13). What do you think “forsake” means? _________________________________________________________________
13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper:
But whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.
X. Concluding Questions –
X. Concluding Questions –
Fill in these questions from memory.
Fill in these questions from memory.
A. The Bible was written for us to know that we are _________, and that as sinners we needed God to reach down to us (not for us to reach up), and to save us from ________.
A. The Bible was written for us to know that we are _________, and that as sinners we needed God to reach down to us (not for us to reach up), and to save us from ________.
B. God has revealed absolute truth through the _________ alone.
B. God has revealed absolute truth through the _________ alone.
C. What has separated all of humanity from God? ____________
C. What has separated all of humanity from God? ____________
D. Who can actually completely take away the sins of the whole world? ____________
D. Who can actually completely take away the sins of the whole world? ____________
E. Instead of trying to pay off all our sins ourselves with our own good works, our salva-tion depends only upon whether we are by faith willing to let the _______ of Jesus Christ be sufficient to pay off all our sin-debt to God.
E. Instead of trying to pay off all our sins ourselves with our own good works, our salva-tion depends only upon whether we are by faith willing to let the _______ of Jesus Christ be sufficient to pay off all our sin-debt to God.
F. The term “born again” refers to what? An external or an internal birth? (Circle one).
F. The term “born again” refers to what? An external or an internal birth? (Circle one).
G. When Jesus died, whose place was He taking? _______________
G. When Jesus died, whose place was He taking? _______________
H. When a person repents of their sins, and calls upon Jesus Christ to save them from hell, how long does it take before they are forgiven of all sins, past, present, and future? _______________________________________
H. When a person repents of their sins, and calls upon Jesus Christ to save them from hell, how long does it take before they are forgiven of all sins, past, present, and future? _______________________________________
I. Have you let Him take your place, and been born again yourself? Yes or No
I. Have you let Him take your place, and been born again yourself? Yes or No
J. Is Jesus Christ worthy of you living your life by following Him and obeying His word from now on? Yes, No.
J. Is Jesus Christ worthy of you living your life by following Him and obeying His word from now on? Yes, No.
Well done! Lesson One is completed!