Introduction to New Testament: The Early Church

The Earliest Church

Now as we are done with the Gospels, now we begin with the beginning of Church History. The start of an age that we are now currently in. This is the start of a colorful, wonders, not always good, History

Roman Empire

Now we get to go outside of Judea to the rest of the roman empire and the rest of the world as the church will grow and will be attacked by the world. Look back at the roman Rulers that will be during the growth and beginning of the Church.

2 most important Periods of persecution that will effect the New Testament are

Nero - Peter and Paul will be put to death under

Domitian - a very cruel leader

Reasons for persecution

Perceived as being against the State

In the Graeco-Roman world State is of the Highest Good

All was subordinated to the State

Including Religion

Service to the State was the purpose of Life

Christians were citizens of a kingdom that was not of this world

They recognized an authority that was higher than the State

and if the law of the Empire came in conflict with the Law of God

God would win

Therefore in evangelism

Christians were asking Romans to renounce the existing State religion and to believe in the only True religion

Thus they were anti-national and hostile to the State and disloyal to the Empire

They have no right to Exist

They were accused of Treason and would be punished as such

Christianity was a new religion

In the Roman peace, new religions are not allowed

they disturb the peace

There is also a law against meeting in secret

Secret associations are unlawful corporations

Difference in Lifestyles

Rome advocated

Pleasure

Happiness

satisfaction of the senses as personal ends

Orgies

Food orgies

Drunken parties

Homosexuality

Luxurious living

Christians preached and practiced

Self-denial

Joy of a future life not focusing on the now

They didn’t decorate for pagan festivals

they would not make advantageous marriages into heathen families

they would not accept political positions where they had to practice or perform religious rituals outside of Christianity

ETC

Rome began to look upon Christians as a race that was averse to all that is great, fair, and noble in humanity

thus they are haters of Mankind

Christians were seen as Atheists

“No God”

Roman

Religion was external

Very pompous

Temples

Images of gods

Sacrifices

Christianity

no impressive temples

Temple in Jerusalem being built but not very impressive

No images or Idols

No Sacrifices or Alters

Worshiped an unseen God

Romans could not understand such worship

So Christians had no God therefore were Atheists

a very serious offence in the Roman Empire

Common charge during Domitian’s reign

Refusal to worship the Emperor

there for they were anarchist

Against slavery

Rome was built on slavery

Christians taught equality

This however will change later on in the history of the Church

and whites will be seen as the true race

God’s given race

During one period of time it was even believed that Jesus was white

something that is still being fought today

Not to mention the idea of manifest destiny

It was God’s given right for a certain group, race, country

to expand its boarders

However, Christians will be leaders in removing slavery

Family life

In Rome

Infidelity

divorce were common

Infanticide was a prevailing practice

Christians

sacredness of marriage and family life

Condemned exposure of infants as murder

Miracles

Miracles of healing and cures of demonic

brought Christians under the suspicion of practicing magic

Economics

Smiths

People who sold cattle for sacrifices

Prisoners

fortune-tellers

ETC

Christians injured their trade

Cannibalism

secrecy of the meetings plus misunderstandings

Bread and wine are the body and blood of Christ

Early Church

On the day of Pentecost when the Holy Sprit is poured out on the Believers in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit institutionalizes the Church. The Christian Church will become the fastest Growing Religion until recently

Beliefs Common between Jews and Christians

God created Heaven and Earth

God chose the patriarchs of Isreal

God delivered Isreal out of Egypt

God led his people through the wilderness

God revealed himself at Sinai

God granted Isreal the land of Canaan

God raised up kings in Israel

God chose Jerusalem

God sent his prophets

God delights in communion with each and all of his people

God calls his people to a life of holiness

God is faithful to his covenant

Jews felt as if Christianity was heresy brought in

Christians felt that Jews were abandoning their own heritage by rejecting God’s promised deliverer

The believed themselves as the to be the true accepters of the Lord

Something that Jews have neglected

Uniqueness of Christians

Jesus

God had taken human form

God was more than one with being one

Resurrection

that brings salvation

Jesus was the savior of the world not just the Jews

Acts 1-7

Author

Luke, same person who wrote Luke. Luke used sources. May have used many of the same sources: Records of Speeches, Ancient historiography

Luke as a Historian. Luke has shaped his story to tell the story of the universal Christ

Historical value

More Than Thirty Countries Are Found in Acts

Over Fifty Cities and Towns Are Found in Acts

Numerous Islands Are Identified in Acts

Approximately One Hundred Persons Are Noted in Acts

Sixty of Whom Are Not Mentioned Elsewhere in the New Testament

Demonstrates Impressive Knowledge of Geography

Reflects Knowledge of Local Politics and Customs

Shows Knowledge of Seafaring

Provides Background of the First-Century Mediterranean

World

Doesn’t deal with How did Christianity come to Rome(acts 28) or Egypt (acts 11)

Date

80-100

Ends with Paul in Rome preaching the gospel unhindered

Paul arrived in Rome Ca AD 59

Stayed 2 years died in early 60’s

during Neronian persecution

Died no later than 66

If he was writing as he goes it would be no later than 60s

Geography

Luke has shaped his story around Jerusalem moving to the rest of the world

Title

Acts of The Apostles

Acts of the Holy Spirit

Growth of the Church

Acts of God through His Apostles

Themes

World Mission

The Providence of God

The Power of the Spirit

Restored Isreal

Inclusive Gospel

Gospel’s Triumph

Apostles

Shadowy figures in Acts. Peter and John. Silent partner mentioned

James, John’s brothers killed by the sword (12) no elaboration

Luke Concentrates on Paul, does not really mention the 12 disciples that often

Purpose of Writing

Missionary story becomes a missionary tract. story is unfinished because others will add to it. Defend Christians against troublesome element in the empire.

Luke arranges his narrative into 10 major sections

Prologue and account of the ascension (1:1-11)

Founding of the Jerusalem Church (1:12-2:47)

Work of Peter and the Apostles (3:1-5:42)

Persecution of the Hellenist Jewish Christians and the first missions (6:6:1-8:40)

Preparation for the Gentile mission: The conversions of Saul and Cornelius (9:1-12:25)

First Missionary Journey of Paul and Barabbas (13:1-15:35)

Paul’s second missionary journey: Evangelizing Greece (16:1-18:21)

Paul’s Third missionary Journey: Revisiting Asia Minor and Greece (18:22-20:38)

Paul’s Arrest in Jerusalem and imprisonment in Caesarea (21:1-26:32)

Paul’s Journey to Rome and his preaching to Roman Jews (27:1-28:31)

Outline of Acts 1-7

The Witness to Christ in and Around Jerusalem

Introduction and Instructions 1:1–8

The Ascension 1:9–11

The Selection of Judas’s Replacement 1:12–26

Pentecost: Emergence of the Church 2:1–47

First Encounter of the Church with the Religious Leaders 3:1–4:35

Ananias and Sapphira: A Case of Discipline 4:36–5:16

Second Encounter of the Church with Church Leaders 5:17–42

The Seven Servants: An Example of Problem Solving 6:1–7

Stephen: Fatal Clash with Judaism 6:8–7:60

Acts 1:1–11 LEB

I produced the former account, O Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and to teach, until the day he was taken up, after he had given orders through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen, to whom he also presented himself alive after he suffered, with many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking the things about the kingdom of God. And while he was with them, he commanded them, “Do not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for what was promised by the Father, which you heard about from me. For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” So when they had come together, they began asking him, saying, “Lord, is it at this time you are restoring the kingdom to Israel?” But he said to them, “It is not for you to know the times or seasons that the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the farthest part of the earth.” And after he had said these things, while they were watching, he was taken up, and a cloud received him from their sight. And as they were staring into the sky while he was departing, behold, two men in white clothing stood by them who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand there looking into the sky? This Jesus who was taken up from you into heaven like this will come back in the same way you saw him departing into heaven!”

Acts takes up where Luke’s Gospel ends. Jesus has died and has been resurrected though he did not leave immediately. He stayed behind and taught and gave instruction. He leaves standing orders. 1:4-5 - Stay in Jerusalem until you are baptized with the holy spirit. When the Holy Sprit comes you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the Earth.

Verse 8 serves as an outline of the Book:

Jerusalem

Judea

Samaria

and to the Ends of the Earth

Verses 9-11 recount Jesus’ ascension

Acts 1:12–2:47 LEB

Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mountain that is called Olive Grove which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey away. And when they had entered, they went up to the upstairs room where they were staying—Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas son of James. All these were busily engaged with one mind in prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus and with his brothers. And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the brothers (and it was a crowd of persons of about one hundred twenty at the same place) and said, “Men and brothers, it was necessary that the scripture be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit proclaimed beforehand through the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus, because he was counted among us and received a share in this ministry.” (Now this man acquired a field for the wages of his wickedness, and falling headlong, he burst open in the middle and all his intestines spilled out. And it became known to all who live in Jerusalem, so that that field was called in their own language “Akeldama,” that is, “Field of Blood.”) “For it is written in the book of Psalms, ‘Let his residence become deserted, and let there be no one to live in it,’ and, ‘Let another person take his position.’ Therefore it is necessary for one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time in which the Lord Jesus went in and went out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day on which he was taken up from us—one of these men must become a witness of his resurrection together with us.” And they proposed two men, Joseph called Barsabbas (who was called Justus) and Matthias. And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show clearly which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to depart to his own place.” And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was added to serve with the eleven apostles. And when the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in the same place. And suddenly a sound like a violent rushing wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. And divided tongues like fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages as the Spirit gave them ability to speak out. Now there were Jews residing in Jerusalem, devout men from every nation under heaven. And when this sound occurred, the crowd gathered and was in confusion, because each one was hearing them speaking in his own language. And they were astounded and astonished, saying, “Behold, are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how do we hear, each one of us, in our own native language? Parthians and Medes and Elamites and those residing in Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya toward Cyrene, and the Romans who were in town, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs—we hear them speaking in our own languages the great deeds of God!” And all were amazed and greatly perplexed, saying to one another, “What can this mean?” But others jeered and said, “They are full of sweet new wine!” But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and declared to them, “Judean men, and all those who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and pay attention to my words! For these men are not drunk, as you assume, because it is the third hour of the day. But this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: ‘And it will be in the last days,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters will prophesy, and your young men will see visions, and your old men will dream dreams. And even on my male slaves and on my female slaves I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. And I will cause wonders in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and vapor of smoke. The sun will be changed to darkness and the moon to blood, before the great and glorious day of the Lord comes. And it will be that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.’ “Israelite men, listen to these words! Jesus the Nazarene, a man attested to you by God with deeds of power and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, just as you yourselves know—this man, delivered up by the determined plan and foreknowledge of God, you executed by nailing to a cross through the hand of lawless men. God raised him up, having brought to an end the pains of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. For David says with reference to him, ‘I saw the Lord before me continually, for he is at my right hand so that I will not be shaken. For this reason my heart was glad and my tongue rejoiced greatly, furthermore also my flesh will live in hope, because you will not abandon my soul in Hades, nor will you permit your Holy One to experience decay. You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with gladness with your presence.’ “Men and brothers, it is possible to speak with confidence to you about the patriarch David, that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us until this day. Therefore, because he was a prophet and knew that God had sworn to him with an oath to seat one of his descendants on his throne, by having foreseen this, he spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that neither was he abandoned in Hades nor did his flesh experience decay. This Jesus God raised up, of which we all are witnesses. Therefore, having been exalted to the right hand of God and having received the promise of the Holy Spirit from the Father, he has poured out this that you see and hear. For David did not ascend into heaven, but he himself says, ‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.” ’ Therefore let all the house of Israel know beyond a doubt, that God has made him both Lord and Christ—this Jesus whom you crucified!” Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “What should we do, men and brothers?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized, each one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children, and for all those who are far away, as many as the Lord our God calls to himself.” And with many other words he solemnly urged and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this crooked generation!” So those who accepted his message were baptized, and on that day about three thousand souls were added. And they were devoting themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayers. And fear came on every soul, and many wonders and signs were being performed by the apostles. And all who believed were in the same place, and had everything in common. And they began selling their possessions and property, and distributing these things to all, to the degree that anyone had need. And every day, devoting themselves to meeting with one purpose in the temple courts and breaking bread from house to house, they were eating their food with joy and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding every day to the total of those who were being saved.

First Christian Pentecost

50 Days after Passover

Days of Preparation - 11 up in the upper room where they had the last disciple with them was the woman Mary, Other women. Jesus Brothers

Peter speaks to the believers that have been following chose a person to take the place of Judas the traitor make the circle strong again.

First chose two that had been with them from the beginning

Joseph called Barsabbas

AKA Justus

Matthias

when they pray and cast lots

Matthias is chosen

Pentecost

They were all in one place presumably in the upper room violent wind came from heave and filled the whole house where they were sitting saw tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them, began to speak in tongues

On the day of Pentecost Jews came from everywhere, it was an important festival. Each of the people groups heard the message in their own language, in their own tongues, thus the gift of tongues. Some believed they were drunk.

Peter addresses the crowd, over a dozen nations are present, they each hear his words in their own tongue. Peter draws from Old Testament, which the people would have known.

Peter calls for repentance. Verse 37 When they heard this they were cut to the heart. What can we do? Repent and receive the Holy Spirit. Over 3000 men were saved and presented for baptism. Women and children did not often attend these meetings, But could have just not been counted.

Verse 42-47 maps out the longer term outcome of the Pentecost conversions.

The Teaching of the Disciples Was to Be the Focus

The Importance of Fellowship of Believers

An Awe of the Wondrous Works Done by the Apostles

Sharing of Physical Goods and Possessions

Meeting Together in the Temple Courts

Enjoyment of the Heartfelt Praise of God and Favor of Outsiders

Growth of the Church

The themes dominate the remainder of this section of Acts

Miracles and Message

What is a miracle?

Anything that strengthens the faith of the Lord. Something that shows the power of the Lord. Do miracles happen? Yes

Why don’t we see them more often. We don’t look for them. We don’t believe them when they do happen.

Christian Community: Growth and coming together as a community

Conflict: resistance and persecution to the word of God

Acts 3:1–10 LEB

Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a certain man was being carried who was lame from birth. He was placed every day at the gate of the temple called “Beautiful,” so that he could ask for charitable gifts from those who were going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to go into the temple courts, he began asking to receive alms. And Peter looked intently at him, together with John, and said, “Look at us!” So he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not possess, but what I have, this I give to you—in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, walk!” And taking hold of him by the right hand, he raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. And leaping up, he stood and began walking around and entered into the temple courts with them, walking and leaping and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God, And they recognized him, that this one was the one who used to sit asking for alms at the Beautiful Gate of the temple, and they were filled with awe and astonishment at what had happened to him.

Peter heals a Crippled Beggar

Acts 3:11–26 LEB

And while he was holding fast to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the portico called Solomon’s, utterly astonished. And when he saw it, Peter replied to the people, “Men and Israelites, why are you astonished at this? Or why are you staring at us, as if by our own power or godliness we have made him walk? The God of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus, whom you handed over and denied in the presence of Pilate, after he had decided to release him. But you denied the Holy and Righteous One and demanded that a man—a murderer—be granted to you. And you killed the originator of life, whom God raised from the dead, of which we are witnesses! And on the basis of faith in his name, his name has made this man strong, whom you see and know, and the faith that is through him has given him this perfect health in the presence of you all. And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, just as your rulers did also. But the things which God foretold through the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer, he has fulfilled in this way. Therefore repent and turn back, so that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and he may send the Christ appointed for you—Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the times of the restoration of all things, about which God spoke through the mouth of his holy prophets from earliest times. Moses said, ‘The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet like me from your brothers. You will listen to him in everything that he says to you. And it will be that every soul who does not listen to that prophet will be destroyed utterly from the people.’ And indeed, all the prophets from Samuel and all those who followed him have spoken about and proclaimed these days. You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant that God ordained with your fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your offspring all the nations of the earth will be blessed.’ God, after he had raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you by turning each of you back from your wickedness!”

Peter will speak and carry the message to people

Acts 4:1–22 LEB

And while they were speaking to the people, the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees approached them, greatly annoyed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. And they laid hands on them and put them in custody until the next day, because it was already evening. But many of those who listened to the message believed, and the number of the men was approximately five thousand. And it happened that on the next day, their rulers and elders and scribes came together in Jerusalem, and Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas and John and Alexander, and all those who were from the high priest’s family. And they made them stand in their midst and began to ask, “By what power or by what name did you do this?” Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a sick man—by what means this man was healed—let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead—by him this man stands before you healthy! This one is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, that has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among people by which we must be saved.” Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were astonished, and recognized them, that they had been with Jesus. And because they saw the man who had been healed standing there with them, they had nothing to say in return. But after they had ordered them to go outside the Sanhedrin, they began to confer with one another, saying, “What should we do with these men? For that a remarkable sign has taken place through them is evident to all those who live in Jerusalem, and we are not able to deny it! But in order that it may not spread much further among the people, let us warn them to speak no more in this name to anyone at all.” And they called them back and commanded them not to speak or to teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than God, you decide! For we are not able to refrain from speaking about the things that we have seen and heard.” So after threatening them further, they released them, finding no way to punish them on account of the people, because they were all praising God for what had happened. For the man on whom this sign of healing had been performed was more than forty years old.

Peter and John are seized by the Sanhedrin. By what power or what name did you do this, Jesus Christ. When the saw the courage of peter and John realized that they were unschooled ordinary men begin to see how they can stop it. Must stop the people from preaching in this name, there was nothing they could do to stop them. they must release them. the people of God are strengthened and they are brought together further as a community.

Acts 5 LEB

Now a certain man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, and he kept back for himself some of the proceeds, and his wife was aware of it. And he brought a certain part and placed it at the feet of the apostles. But Peter said, “Ananias, for what reason has Satan filled your heart, that you lied to the Holy Spirit and kept back for yourself some of the proceeds of the piece of land? When it remained to you, did it not remain yours? And when it was sold, was it at your disposal? How is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to people, but to God!” And when Ananias heard these words, he fell down and died. And great fear came on all those who heard about it. So the young men stood up, wrapped him up, and carried him out and buried him. And it happened that there was an interval of about three hours, and his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. And Peter said to her, “Tell me whether you both were paid this much for the piece of land.” And she said, “Yes, this much.” So Peter said to her, “How is it that it was agreed by you two to test the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of those who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out!” And immediately she fell down at his feet and died. So when the young men came in, they found her dead, and carried her out and buried her with her husband. And great fear came on the whole church and on all who heard about these things. Now many signs and wonders were being performed among the people through the hands of the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon’s Portico. And none of the rest dared to join them, but the people spoke highly of them. And even more believers in the Lord were being added, large numbers of both men and women, so that they even carried out the sick into the streets and put them on cots and mats so that when Peter came by, at least his shadow would fall on some of them. And the people of the towns around Jerusalem also came together, bringing the sick and those tormented by unclean spirits, who were all being healed. Now the high priest rose up and all those who were with him (that is, the party of the Sadducees), and they were filled with jealousy. And they laid hands on the apostles and put them in the public prison. But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the prison and led them out and said, “Go and stand in the temple courts and proclaim to the people all the words of this life.” And when they heard this, they entered at daybreak into the temple courts and began teaching. Now when the high priest and those with him arrived, they summoned the Sanhedrin—even the whole council of elders of the sons of Israel—and sent to the prison to have them brought. But the officers who came did not find them in the prison, and they returned and reported, saying, “We found the prison locked with all security and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them, we found no one inside!” Now when both the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were greatly perplexed concerning them, as to what this might be. But someone came and reported to them, “Behold, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple courts and teaching the people!” Then the captain went with the officers and brought them, not with force (for they were afraid of the people, lest they be stoned by them). And when they had brought them, they made them stand in the Sanhedrin, and the high priest put a question to them, saying, “We strictly commanded you not to teach in this name? And behold, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching! And you are intending to bring upon us the blood of this man!” But Peter and the apostles answered and said, “It is necessary to obey God rather than men! The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. This one God has exalted to his right hand as Leader and Savior to grant repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him.” Now when they heard this, they were infuriated, and were wanting to execute them. But a certain man stood up in the Sanhedrin, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law respected by all the people, and gave orders to put the men outside for a short time. And he said to them, “Men and Israelites, take care for yourselves what you are about to do to these men! For before these days, Theudas rose up saying he was somebody. A number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was executed, and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing. After this man, Judas the Galilean rose up in the days of the census and caused people to follow him in revolt. And that one perished, and all who followed him were scattered. And now I tell you, keep away from these men, and leave them alone, because if this plan or this matter is from people, it will be overthrown. But if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them, lest you even be found fighting against God.” So they were persuaded by him. And they summoned the apostles, beat them, commanded them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and released them. So they went out from the presence of the Sanhedrin rejoicing, because they had been considered worthy to be dishonored for the sake of the name. Every day, both in the temple courts and from house to house, they did not stop teaching and proclaiming the good news that the Christ was Jesus.

Meet Ananias and Sapphira, sold a piece of property, they kept part of the money for themselves and brought the rest for the apostles. Never do they ask Ananias to give them everything. But they say they did and lied to God. Satan has filled your heart. Fell down dead and the bodies were buried. There is a big price for lying to God.

Chapter 6

Disciples are busy spreading the word, seven are chosen. Seven to keep the ministry going.

Acts 6:8-8:1

Stephen one of the seven

man full of God’s grace and power

Seized by the Sanhedrin

Stephen is stoned as the stoning Saul who will become Paul is holding the jackets

Acts 8-12

Outline

The Witness to Christ in Judea and Samaria

Saul the Persecutor and Philip the Evangelist Acts 8:1–40

The Conversion of Saul Acts 9:1–31

Peter’s Ministry in Judea Acts 9:32–11:18

The Antioch Church: Barnabas’s Ministry Acts 11:19–30

Peter’s Miraculous Deliverance Acts 12:1–25

After the stoning of Stephen, The believers in Jerusalem were scattered. Philip's story is one example of the way they took the good news with them.

Philip, One of the seven helpers of the Jerusalem church, goes to the capital of Samaria. Place shunned by most Jerusalem Jews But as it is stated in Acts 1:8, Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earth.

Many people are healed and he preaches about Jesus.

Simon the Sorcerer

a famous magician. It appeared to have magic powers,j not shy about using them. In a world of Polytheism he would have been seen as divinely empowered. Makes a public profession of faith and is baptized. Did Simon really convert? I is called to question when Peter and John arrive latter. he offers them money so that they would share their power with him.

Simony - the buying or selling of church office or privilege. something that will make its way into the church. Some would argue has never left. name synonymous with heresy. one of the first false believers. people that claim him but are just for show, all religion, no faith

Amazed that Samaritans (Jews of mixed descent) have become Christians. Peter and John are sent to Samaria to investigate. Samaritan believers receive the Holy Spirit. Peter and John return.

Philip is sent to the Jerusalem-Gaza road. There he meets the treasurer to the queen of Ethiopia returning home after pilgrimage.

Ethiopian Eunuch

Phillip finds him reading Isaiah 53. This passage tells of an innocent victim dying willing to atone for the sins of others. Philip relates this passage to Jesus and how he died for their sins, also used in book of Mormon. Mosiah 14, few differences from the KJV other than context.

Philip explains the good news to him and he is baptized

Acts 8:39 LEB

39 And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him any longer, for he went on his way rejoicing.

Philip travels north, preaching in every town. turns up in Azotus. He reaches Caesarea, where he later settles with his wife and daughters (Acts 21:8–9).

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook Philip’s Exploits

After the stoning of Stephen, the believers in Jerusalem were scattered. Philip’s story is one example of the way they took the good news with them.

1. Philip, one of the seven helpers of the Jerusalem church, goes to the capital of Samaria.

2. Many people are healed and he preaches about Jesus. Simon, a famous magician, is converted.

3. Amazed that Samaritans (Jews of mixed descent) have become Christians, Peter and John are sent to Samaria to investigate. Samaritan believers receive the Holy Spirit. Peter and John return.

4. Philip is sent to the Jerusalem-Gaza road.

5. There he meets the treasurer to the queen of Ethiopia returning home after pilgrimage. Philip explains the good news to him and he is baptized.

6. Philip travels north, preaching in every town.

7. He reaches Caesarea, where he later settles with his wife and daughters (Acts 21:8–9).

Saul

Acts 9 LEB

1 But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked for letters from him to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, both men and women, he could bring them tied up to Jerusalem. 3 Now as he proceeded, it happened that when he approached Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” 5 So he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting! 6 But get up and enter into the city, and it will be told to you what you must do.” 7 (Now the men who were traveling together with him stood speechless, because they heard the voice but saw no one.) 8 So Saul got up from the ground, but although his eyes were open he could see nothing. And leading him by the hand, they brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was unable to see for three days, and he did not eat or drink. 10 Now there was a certain disciple in Damascus named Ananias, and the Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias!” And he said, “Behold, here I am, Lord!” 11 And the Lord said to him, “Get up, go to the street called ‘Straight’ and in the house of Judas look for a man named Saul from Tarsus. For behold, he is praying, 12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in and placing hands on him so that he may regain his sight.” 13 But Ananias replied, “Lord, I have heard from many people about this man, how much harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem, 14 and here he has authority from the chief priests to tie up all who call upon your name!” 15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, because this man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel. 16 For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” 17 So Ananias departed and entered into the house, and placing his hands on him, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road by which you came, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes and he regained his sight and got up and was baptized, 19 and after taking food, he regained his strength. And he was with the disciples in Damascus several days. 20 And immediately he began proclaiming Jesus in the synagogues: “This one is the Son of God!” 21 And all who heard him were amazed, and were saying, “Is this not the one who was wreaking havoc in Jerusalem on those who call upon this name, and had come here for this reason, that he could bring them tied up to the chief priests?” 22 But Saul was increasing in strength even more, and was confounding the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that this one is the Christ. 23 And when many days had elapsed, the Jews plotted to do away with him. 24 But their plot became known to Saul, and they were also watching the gates both day and night so that they could do away with him. 25 But his disciples took him at night and let him down through the wall by lowering him in a basket. 26 And when he arrived in Jerusalem, he was attempting to associate with the disciples, and they were all afraid of him, because they did not believe that he was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and related to them how he had seen the Lord on the road and that he had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus. 28 And he was going in and going out among them in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. 29 And he was speaking and debating with the Greek-speaking Jews, but they were trying to do away with him. 30 And when the brothers found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him away to Tarsus. 31 Then the church throughout all of Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace, being strengthened. And living in the fear of the Lord and the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it was increasing in numbers. 32 Now it happened that as Peter was traveling through all the places, he also came down to the saints who lived in Lydda. 33 And he found there a certain man named Aeneas who was paralyzed, who had been lying on a mat for eight years. 34 And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you! Get up and make your bed yourself!” And immediately he got up. 35 And all those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him, who all indeed turned to the Lord. 36 Now in Joppa there was a certain female disciple named Tabitha (which translated means “Dorcas”). She was full of good deeds and charitable giving which she was constantly doing. 37 Now it happened that in those days after becoming sick, she died. And after washing her, they placed her in an upstairs room. 38 And because Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, when they heard that Peter was in Lydda, sent two men to him, urging, “Do not delay to come to us!” 39 So Peter got up and accompanied them. When he arrived, they brought him up to the upstairs room, and all the widows came to him, weeping and showing him tunics and other clothing that Dorcas used to make while she was with them. 40 But Peter sent them all outside, and, falling to his knees, he prayed. And turning toward the body, he said, “Tabitha, get up!” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand and raised her up. And he called the saints and the widows and presented her alive. 42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43 And it happened that he stayed many days in Joppa with a certain Simon, a tanner.

Meet Saul Saul is a Jew of Jews Very Religious Man. He sees a blinding light and realizes it’s the Lord and is blinded. He will be taken to the house of Ananias, sent to Paul in Damascus to announce the restoration of Paul’s Sight. Monumental in the conversions of Paul. as well as the furthering of the Kingdom.

Acts 9:33-35 Aeneas - Peter traveled about the country visiting the saints. Aeneas paralytic. bed ridden for 8 years. Lord Heals through Peter. Many come to know the Lord.

Acts 9:36-42 - In Joppa disciple named Tabitha (Dorcas). Name both mean Gazelle: Aramaic Tabitha, Greek Dorcas. Joppa port city for Jerusalem lots of foot traffic. Saintly woman helping the poor, doing good. She dies. Peter will be greatly distressed. He fell to his knees in prayer, called the dead woman’s name. Her eyes opened and she sat up. More came to know the Lord

Simon the Tanner

Acts 9:43 Peter will stay at his house during his times at Joppa. Being a tanner he was unclean, dealt with dead things uncooked, especially blood. Peter’s willingness to stay with him shows the universal Jesus. Luke emphasized Jesus is for everyone

Acts 10:1–11:18 LEB

1 Now there was a certain man in Caesarea named Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Cohort, 2 devout and fearing God together with all his household, doing many charitable deeds for the people and praying to God continually. 3 About the ninth hour of the day, he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming to him and saying to him, “Cornelius.” 4 And he stared at him and became terrified and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said to him, “Your prayers and your charitable deeds have gone up for a memorial offering before God. 5 And now, send men to Joppa and summon a certain Simon, who is also called Peter. 6 This man is staying as a guest with a certain Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.” 7 And when the angel who spoke to him departed, he summoned two of the household slaves and a devout soldier from those who attended him, 8 and after he had explained everything to them, he sent them to Joppa. 9 And the next day, as they were on their way and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray at about the sixth hour. 10 And he became hungry and wanted to eat. But while they were preparing the food, a trance came over him. 11 And he saw heaven opened and an object something like a large sheet coming down, being let down to the earth by its four corners, 12 in which were all the four-footed animals and reptiles of the earth and birds of the sky. 13 And a voice came to him, “Get up, Peter, slaughter and eat!” 14 But Peter said, “Certainly not, Lord! For I have never eaten anything common and unclean!” 15 And the voice came again to him for the second time: “The things which God has made clean, you must not consider unclean!” 16 And this happened three times, and immediately the object was taken up into heaven. 17 Now while Peter was greatly perplexed within himself as to what the vision that he had seen might be, behold, the men who had been sent by Cornelius, having found the house of Simon by asking around, stood at the gate. 18 And they called out and asked if Simon who was also called Peter was staying there as a guest. 19 And while Peter was reflecting about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, men are looking for you. 20 But get up, go down, and go with them—not hesitating at all, because I have sent them.” 21 So Peter went down to the men and said, “Behold, I am he whom you are looking for! What is the reason for which you have come?” 22 And they said, “Cornelius, a centurion, a righteous and God-fearing man—and well spoken of by the whole nation of the Jews—was directed by a holy angel to summon you to his house and to hear words from you.” 23 So he invited them in and entertained them as guests, and on the next day he got up and went away with them. And some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. 24 And on the next day he entered into Caesarea. Now Cornelius was waiting for them, and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 So it happened that when Peter entered, Cornelius met him, fell at his feet, and worshiped him. 26 But Peter helped him up, saying, “Get up! I myself am also a man!” 27 And as he conversed with him, he went in and found many people gathered. 28 And he said to them, “You know that it is forbidden for a Jewish man to associate with or to approach a foreigner. And to me God has shown that I should call no man common or unclean. 29 Therefore—and without raising any objection—I came when I was sent for. So I ask for what reason you sent for me.” 30 And Cornelius said, “Four days ago at this hour, the ninth, I was praying in my house. And behold, a man in shining clothing stood before me 31 and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and your charitable deeds have been remembered before God. 32 Therefore send to Joppa and summon Simon who is also called Peter. This man is staying as a guest in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea. 33 Therefore I sent for you at once, and you were kind enough to come. So now we all are present before God to hear all the things that have been commanded to you by the Lord.” 34 So Peter opened his mouth and said, “In truth I understand that God is not one who shows partiality, 35 but in every nation the one who fears him and who does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 As for the message that he sent to the sons of Israel, proclaiming the good news of peace through Jesus Christ—this one is Lord of all—37 you know the thing that happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee, after the baptism that John proclaimed: 38 Jesus of Nazareth—how God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, because God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all the things that he did both in the land of the Judeans and in Jerusalem, whom they also executed by hanging him on a tree. 40 God raised this one up on the third day and granted that he should become visible, 41 not to all the people but to us who had been chosen beforehand by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify solemnly that this one is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and of the dead. 43 To this one all the prophets testify, that through his name everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins.” 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who were listening to the message. 45 And those believers from the circumcision who had accompanied Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, 46 for they heard them speaking in tongues and glorifying God. Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can withhold the water for these people to be baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit as we also did!” 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to stay for several days. 1 Now the apostles and the brothers who were throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had accepted the word of God. 2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision took issue with him, 3 saying, “You went to men who were uncircumcised and ate with them!” 4 But Peter began and explained it to them in an orderly sequence, saying, 5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision—an object something like a large sheet coming down, being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came to me. 6 As I looked intently into it, I was considering it, and I saw the four-footed animals of the earth and the wild animals and the reptiles and the birds of the sky. 7 And I also heard a voice saying to me, ‘Get up, Peter, slaughter and eat!’ 8 But I said, ‘Certainly not, Lord! For nothing common or unclean has ever entered into my mouth!’ 9 But the voice replied from heaven for the second time, ‘The things which God has made clean, you must not consider unclean!’ 10 And this happened three times, and everything was pulled up into heaven again. 11 And behold, at once three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea approached the house in which we were staying. 12 And the Spirit told me to accompany them, not hesitating at all. So these six brothers also went with me, and we entered into the man’s house. 13 And he reported to us how he had seen the angel standing in his house and saying, ‘Send to Joppa and summon Simon, who is also called Peter, 14 who will speak words to you by which you will be saved, you and all your household.’ 15 And as I was beginning to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them, just as also on us at the beginning. 16 And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 Therefore if God gave them the same gift as also to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?” 18 And when they heard these things, they became silent and praised God, saying, “Then God has granted the repentance leading to life to the Gentiles also!”

Cornelius a centurion part of the roman guard. Devoutly religious a Christian. Roman’s could practice their own religions, Polytheism. God will tell him to bring Peter to his house. Up on the roof. falls into a trance has a vision, dreaming of food. sees a sheet from heaven coming down, on it were unclean animals un-kosher food.

Peter being a good Jew, I shouldn’t eat it. God has made all things clean happens three times. Three being a holy number.

Thinking about the dream men from Cornelius arrive to bring Peter to Cornelius. Peter knows that the unclean was not just food, but the people. Samaritans and the Gentiles. In fact Peter propbably went on eating in a kosher manner.

Universal God. In the house of Cornelius Peter knows now that the Lord does not show favoritism. Witnesses to the Italian and his family. Holy Spirit comes on the people who heard the message.

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook Antioch: Gentile Church

Antioch was the third largest city of the Roman Empire. It was non-Jewish, made up of many different races. It soon became the centre of Gentile Christianity.

1. Stephen is martyred and the believers are scattered everywhere (Acts 8:1–4).

2. Some travel as far as Antioch. They tell the message to Jews only (Acts 11:19).

3. Other believers come from Cyprus and north Africa. They preach to Gentiles in Antioch with dramatic results (Acts 11:20–21).

4. The Jerusalem church sends Barnabas, a trusted leader, to investigate.

5. He is pleased at the church’s progress. He collects Saul from Tarsus and the two stay to teach (Acts 11:22–26).

6. Here, the name ‘Christians’ is coined.

7. Inset: The Antioch church soon becomes strong. The believers send relief money to the mother church in Jerusalem (Acts 11:27–30).

8. Paul and Barnabas are sent out by the church in Antioch. They are the first messengers of the gospel to foreign countries (Acts 13:1–3).

The leaders in Antioch give a cross-section of this cosmopolitan church (Acts 13:1):

Barnabas, a Jew from Cyprus.

Simeon (called the Black) probably from Africa.

Lucius from Cyrene, a north African city.

Manaen, foster-brother to Herod Antipas.

Saul, a Jew from Roman Tarsus, later to become Paul the apostle.

Acts 12:1–23 CSB

1 About that time King Herod violently attacked some who belonged to the church, 2 and he executed James, John’s brother, with the sword. 3 When he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter too, during the Festival of Unleavened Bread. 4 After the arrest, he put him in prison and assigned four squads of four soldiers each to guard him, intending to bring him out to the people after the Passover. 5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was praying fervently to God for him. 6 When Herod was about to bring him out for trial, that very night Peter, bound with two chains, was sleeping between two soldiers, while the sentries in front of the door guarded the prison. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared, and a light shone in the cell. Striking Peter on the side, he woke him up and said, “Quick, get up!” And the chains fell off his wrists. 8 “Get dressed,” the angel told him, “and put on your sandals.” And he did. “Wrap your cloak around you,” he told him, “and follow me.” 9 So he went out and followed, and he did not know that what the angel did was really happening, but he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 After they passed the first and second guards, they came to the iron gate that leads into the city, which opened to them by itself. They went outside and passed one street, and suddenly the angel left him. 11 When Peter came to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s grasp and from all that the Jewish people expected.” 12 As soon as he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John who was called Mark, where many had assembled and were praying. 13 He knocked at the door of the outer gate, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer. 14 She recognized Peter’s voice, and because of her joy, she did not open the gate but ran in and announced that Peter was standing at the outer gate. 15 “You’re out of your mind!” they told her. But she kept insisting that it was true, and they said, “It’s his angel.” 16 Peter, however, kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were amazed. 17 Motioning to them with his hand to be silent, he described to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. “Tell these things to James and the brothers,” he said, and he left and went to another place. 18 At daylight, there was a great commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. 19 After Herod had searched and did not find him, he interrogated the guards and ordered their execution. Then Herod went down from Judea to Caesarea and stayed there. 20 Herod had been very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. Together they presented themselves before him. After winning over Blastus, who was in charge of the king’s bedroom, they asked for peace, because their country was supplied with food from the king’s country. 21 On an appointed day, dressed in royal robes and seated on the throne, Herod delivered a speech to them. 22 The assembled people began to shout, “It’s the voice of a god and not of a man!” 23 At once an angel of the Lord struck him because he did not give the glory to God, and he was eaten by worms and died.

Herod Agrippa 1 Persecuted James Acts 12:1–4. James the first of the 12 to die, Beheaded.

When he saw that this pleased the Jews. ordered that Peter be taken. Night before his trial, angel comes and frees him from prison. Herod ordered execution of guards Acts 12:19. Negotiated with cities of Tyre and Sidon Acts 12:20. Their he addressed public Acts 12:21. and was called a god Acts 12:22. Herod was struck down by and angel of the Lord, eaten by worms and Died.

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook Peter’s Journeys

1. On the Day of Pentecost, Peter preaches, and 3,000 become believers (Acts 2:14–42).

2. Peter heals a lame man. He is arrested with John and warned not to preach (Acts 3:1–4:22).

3. At this stage Peter is leader of the church in Jerusalem.

4. Peter and John follow Philip into Samaria. Samaritans become believers (Acts 8:4–24).

5. They return, preaching in Samaritan villages (Acts 8:25).

6. Peter goes to Lydda on to Joppa to raise Dorcas from death. He stays for some time (Acts 9:32–43).

7. Cornelius in Caesarea has a vision to send for Peter. Peter has a vision in Joppa. Peter goes to Caesarea and Gentiles become believers (Acts 10).

8. Peter reports to the Jerusalem church who accept the gospel is for Gentiles, too (Acts 11:1–18).

9. Peter is arrested, but miraculously released. He flees Jerusalem (Acts 12:1–19).

10. Peter speaks at the Jerusalem council (Acts 15:1–21). James now appears to head the Jerusalem church.

There is little information about the rest of Peter’s work.

11. Peter meets Paul in Antioch (Galatians 2:11–14).

12. Peter a visitor to churches in north Asia Minor (1 Peter 1:1).

13. Evidence of Peter in Corinth (1 Corinthians 1:12).

14. Peter in Rome, where he was executed (1 Peter 5:13). (‘Babylon’ = Rome). There is strong evidence that Mark, a follower of Peter, wrote his Gospel in Rome just after Peter’s death, using Peter’s eyewitness preaching about Jesus.

Acts 13-28

Outline – To The Ends of the Earth

Paul’s First Missionary Journey Acts 13:1–14:28

The Jerusalem Council Acts 15:1–35

Paul’s Second Missionary Journey Acts 15:36–18:22

Paul’s Third Missionary Journey Acts 18:23–21:15

Paul’s Arrest in Jerusalem and Incarceration at Caesarea Acts 21:15–26:32

Paul’s Voyage to Rome Acts 27:1–28:10

Paul’s Ministry at Rome Acts 28:11–31

Paul

Saul - Paul after his conversion, born in Tarsus as a Roman citizen. He became a strict Pharisee in Jerusalem and in the early days of the church's life. Was notorious in his crusade to stamp out belief in Jesus. His abrupt conversion made many Christians suspicious at first that this was another tactic in his persecutions. But Paul had been transformed by his meeting with Jesus, risen and alive, on the Damascus road. He was to become the apostle to the Gentiles, taking the message of Jesus from the streets of Jerusalem to the imperial palace in Rome.

For twenty years he travelled, preaching, starting Christian communities, encouraging, teaching. Wrote the letters that became a major part of the New Testament.

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook Midday outside Damascus

Saul’s early life until his conversion.

1. Saul (later called Paul) is born and spends his early years in Tarsus—an important Roman city. He is born a Roman citizen (Acts 22:25–29).

2. Taken to Jerusalem as a young boy and educated by the well-known teacher Gamaliel (Acts 22:3). He is a Pharisee.

3. When Stephen is stoned to death for his faith, Saul holds the stoners’ coats. He becomes a violent persecutor of the church, given authority to imprison Christians (Acts 26:9–11). He even travels to foreign cities to root them out.

4. On one such visit, Saul travels to Damascus to arrest believers. At midday, near the city, he has a vision of Jesus. A voice says, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’

5. In the city a believer called Ananias visits Saul. His blindness is healed and he is baptized (Acts 9:1–19).

6. Paul stays for 3 years in Damascus, preaching in the synagogues. At some point in (Acts 9:19–22 he went into the desert of Arabia (Galatians 1:15–17), and returned to continue his work there.

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook Apostle to the Gentiles

Saul’s work after Damascus and before his first journey.

1. Three years after his conversion, Saul is forced to escape from the Jews of Damascus in a basket (Acts 9:23–25).

2. He goes to Jerusalem to see Peter. The believers still suspect him, but Barnabas introduces him to them. He talks with Peter and meets James. But after only 2 weeks he has to be smuggled out because of opposition from some Jews (Acts 9:26–30; Galatians 1:18–20).

3. Saul is taken to Caesarea.

4. From there he leaves for his home city of Tarsus (Acts 9:30).

5. He spends 10 years in Tarsus. During this time he visits places in Cilicia and Syria. He is still unknown personally to believers in Judea (Galatians 1:21–24).

6. Barnabas (who had been sent to work in the church in Antioch) goes to find Saul in Tarsus. He brings him back to Antioch. They teach together for 1 year (Acts 11:25–26).

7. Saul, Barnabas, and Titus go to Jerusalem with famine relief money for Judea. They meet privately with the church leaders. Despite some disagreements, the leaders recognize Saul’s ministry to the Gentiles (Acts 11:27–30; Galatians 2:1–10).

First missionary Journey – Mission to Galatia

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook Mission to the Galatians

1. Paul and Barnabas sent out by the Antioch church, with John Mark (Acts 13:1–3).

2. They encounter Bar-Jesus, false prophet and friend of the governor. Bar-Jesus is struck blind. The governor believes (Acts 13:4–12).

3. John Mark leaves to go back to Jerusalem (Acts 13:13).

4. Paul preaches to Jews and Gentiles. The Jews are jealous and stir up opposition (Acts 13:14–52).

5. They stay a long time. Many Jews and Gentiles become believers. A Gentile plot on their lives forces them on (Acts 14:1–7).

6. Paul heals a cripple. They are hailed as gods. Enemies arrive from Antioch and Iconium—they are almost killed (Acts 14:8–20).

7. Many more disciples won. They return the way they came, encouraging the young churches (Acts 14:21–26).

8. They report everything to the church in Antioch (Acts 14:27–28).

Acts 15:1–35 CSB

1 Some men came down from Judea and began to teach the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom prescribed by Moses, you cannot be saved.” 2 After Paul and Barnabas had engaged them in serious argument and debate, Paul and Barnabas and some others were appointed to go up to the apostles and elders in Jerusalem about this issue. 3 When they had been sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and they brought great joy to all the brothers and sisters. 4 When they arrived at Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church, the apostles, and the elders, and they reported all that God had done with them. 5 But some of the believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them and to command them to keep the law of Moses.” 6 The apostles and the elders gathered to consider this matter. 7 After there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, “Brothers, you are aware that in the early days God made a choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles would hear the gospel message and believe. 8 And God, who knows the heart, bore witness to them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he also did to us. 9 He made no distinction between us and them, cleansing their hearts by faith. 10 Now then, why are you testing God by putting a yoke on the disciples’ necks that neither our ancestors nor we have been able to bear? 11 On the contrary, we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus in the same way they are.” 12 The whole assembly became silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul describe all the signs and wonders God had done through them among the Gentiles. 13 After they stopped speaking, James responded, “Brothers, listen to me. 14 Simeon has reported how God first intervened to take from the Gentiles a people for his name. 15 And the words of the prophets agree with this, as it is written: 16 After these things I will return and rebuild David’s fallen tent. I will rebuild its ruins and set it up again, 17 so that the rest of humanity may seek the Lord— even all the Gentiles who are called by my name— declares the Lord who makes these things 18 known from long ago. 19 Therefore, in my judgment, we should not cause difficulties for those among the Gentiles who turn to God, 20 but instead we should write to them to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from eating anything that has been strangled, and from blood. 21 For since ancient times, Moses has had those who proclaim him in every city, and every Sabbath day he is read aloud in the synagogues.” 22 Then the apostles and the elders, with the whole church, decided to select men who were among them and to send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas: Judas, called Barsabbas, and Silas, both leading men among the brothers. 23 They wrote: “From the apostles and the elders, your brothers, To the brothers and sisters among the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia: Greetings. 24 Since we have heard that some without our authorization went out from us and troubled you with their words and unsettled your hearts, 25 we have unanimously decided to select men and send them to you along with our dearly loved Barnabas and Paul, 26 who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 27 Therefore we have sent Judas and Silas, who will personally report the same things by word of mouth. 28 For it was the Holy Spirit’s decision—and ours—not to place further burdens on you beyond these requirements: 29 that you abstain from food offered to idols, from blood, from eating anything that has been strangled, and from sexual immorality. You will do well if you keep yourselves from these things. Farewell.” 30 So they were sent off and went down to Antioch, and after gathering the assembly, they delivered the letter. 31 When they read it, they rejoiced because of its encouragement. 32 Both Judas and Silas, who were also prophets themselves, encouraged the brothers and sisters and strengthened them with a long message. 33 After spending some time there, they were sent back in peace by the brothers and sisters to those who had sent them. 35 But Paul and Barnabas, along with many others, remained in Antioch, teaching and proclaiming the word of the Lord.

The Jerusalem council (15:1-35), Ca. Ad 49. Opposition to the Gospel. Same People who had criticized Peter Earlier. Jerusalem Council Apostles and Elders Meet, Peter, Barnabas, Paul, James the Brother of Jesus. Discussing the Jews and The Gentiles.

A letter sent to the Gentiles, List points in which Jews and non-Jews different greatly on moral observances. Don’t make it difficult for the Gentile Believers. Stay away from: Food Sacrificed to Idols, From Blood, Sexual Immorality, Meat of Strangled animals.

Second Missionary Journey – Mission to Greece

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook Mission to Greece

1 Paul and Barnabas agree to revisit the Galatian churches. But they disagree about taking John Mark who had left them on the earlier mission (Acts 15:36–38).

2 After an argument, Barnabas takes Mark to Cyprus (Acts 15:39).

3 Paul takes Silas. At Lystra Paul asks Timothy to join them (Acts 16:1–3).

4 They revisit the towns, telling the believers the decisions of the Jerusalem Council about Gentile converts (Acts 16:4–5).

5 Paul tries to go into Bithynia, but is blocked by the Holy Spirit (Acts 16:6–7).

6 At night, Paul has a vision. A Macedonian urges him to come across to help. They decide to sail for Macedonia (Acts 16:8–10). At this point Luke (author of Acts) joins them.

7 Paul delivers a girl fortune-teller from an evil spirit. The girl’s owners protest and a crowd attacks Paul and Silas. Flogged and imprisoned, they are freed by an earthquake. Their jailer believes (Acts 16:11–40).

8 Paul convinces both Jews and Greeks. Some Jews stir up a riot—Paul leaves secretly (Acts 17:1–9).

9 Paul receives a better reception. But a mob is stirred up by people from Thessalonica. Paul leaves, but Silas and Timothy stay behind (Acts 17:10–15).

10 Paul speaks to the court of the Areopagus which met to consider new religions. His mention of the resurrection divides his audience: some laugh, some believe (Acts 17:16–34).

11 Silas and Timothy arrive with news of Thessalonica. Paul writes 1 and 2 Thessalonians, encouraging that church in its difficulties. They spend almost 2 years here, building up the church. Despite Jewish opposition, they are able to stay (Acts 18:1–17).

12 They stop briefly in Ephesus—Paul had been forbidden earlier by the Spirit to preach in Asia. He debates with the Jews who want him to stay longer (Acts 18:18–21).

13 They travel back to Antioch, via Caesarea and Jerusalem (Acts 18:22).

Paul’s third Missionary Journey – Corinth affair

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook The Corinthian Affair

1 Paul makes Ephesus the base for his mission work for the next 3 years. Disciples of Apollos receive the Holy Spirit and a church is founded (Acts 19:1–7). The gospel spreads in Asia (Acts 19:8–20).

2 Paul plans to go to Macedonia. He sends Timothy and Erastus ahead (Acts 19:21–22). They may also visit Corinth (1 Corinthians 16:10–11). Paul is worried about immorality at the church there.

3 Three members of the Corinthian church bring a letter to Paul (1 Corinthians 16:17–18). It is full of questions that reveal the problems to be far greater than Paul had thought.

4 Paul writes and sends 1 Corinthians, tackling the problems.

5 Paul hears bad news about the church in Corinth, possibly from Timothy.

6 He hurries to Corinth (implied by the intended third visit of 2 Corinthians 12:14). The visit is extremely painful for everyone. Paul has to be severe.

7 He returns to Ephesus. Here he writes a ‘painful letter’ to them (2 Corinthians 2:4). Titus takes the letter to Corinth. Paul arranges to meet Titus again at Troas urgently, to get news of the situation.

8 Paul is the centre of a riot in Ephesus. His message threatens the sale of statues of the Ephesian goddess (Acts 19:23–41).

9 Paul goes to Troas. The work goes well, but Paul is worried about his ‘painful letter.’ Was it too harsh? Titus does not appear as arranged (2 Corinthians 2:12–13).

10 Paul enters Macedonia in search of Titus. By doing this he breaks an arrangement he made with the Corinthians—he was going to go to them by sea before visiting Macedonia. He apologizes in 2 Corinthians 1:15–2:4. He didn’t want another painful visit.

11 He encourages the churches (Acts 20:1–2) and collects money for the Jerusalem church (2 Corinthians 8:1–5).

12 Paul and Titus finally meet. Titus brings good news—the ‘painful letter’ has been taken as Paul intended (2 Corinthians 7:5–16).

13 Paul writes 2 Corinthians—full of joy. He encourages them to complete their promised giving for the Jerusalem church (2 Corinthians 8:10–15).

14 Titus takes the letter ahead of Paul to prepare the church for Paul’s third visit (2 Corinthians 8:16–24).

15 Paul stays in Achaia 3 months, probably in Corinth. Here he writes the letter to the Romans.

16 He plans to travel to Jerusalem by sea via Syria. A plot by his enemies forces him to return through Macedonia (Acts 20:2–6).

To Jerusalem

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook To Jerusalem

Paul is anxious to be in Jerusalem for the Feast of Pentecost, 7 weeks away.

1. Paul arrives from Philippi. While he preaches on till midnight, Eutychus falls asleep and out of a 3 story window. But he is raised from death.

2. Elders from the church in Ephesus meet Paul, who gives a farewell speech. He says they will never see him again. Paul leaves with great emotion.

3. At Patara they change ships.

4. They stay at Philip the evangelist’s house. Agabus the prophet tells Paul he will be bound by Jews in Jerusalem and handed over to Gentiles. Paul is determined to go on, despite warnings and pleas.

5. At Jerusalem Paul is welcomed by the church.

1st Appeal To Caesar

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook I Appeal to Caesar!

1. Paul recognized by Jews from Asia in the temple. A mob drags him outside and tries to kill him.

2. Roman troops arrest (and rescue) him. Paul is allowed to speak to the rioters. His words incite them to more violence.

3. He is taken into the Roman Fortress.

4. Next day, Paul defends himself before the Jewish Council. Again the arguments turn to violence. Paul is taken back to the Fortress.

5. Over forty men plot to kill Paul.

6. The Roman commander hears of the plot. That night he sends Paul under armed escort to the governor Felix in Caesarea.

7. Paul’s case heard by Felix, but he defers a decision. Two years later Festus replaces Felix. Paul still imprisoned.

8. Festus hears Paul’s case. He seems unfavourable, so Paul appeals to have his case heard by the emperor. He waits to go to Rome and presents his story to Agrippa II.

9. Paul and companions (including Luke) leave for Rome, Paul under armed guard.

Storm and Shipwreck

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook Storm and Shipwreck

1. In bad weather Paul’s ship reaches Fair Havens.

2. They shelter there until early October—the end of the safe sailing season. They decide to winter in the better harbour at Phoenix.

3. On route to Phoenix they are blown out to sea.

4. South of Cauda they pull the boat on board, lower the sail, and let the ship run.

5. Next day they jettison ship’s cargo.

6. Next day they jettison ship’s equipment.

7. Inset: Night 14 of the storm, land is near. Sailors try to escape but fail. After eating, they lighten the ship.

8. Ship hits a sandbank in a bay and begins to break up. All hands are saved.

To Rome

Nelson’s 3-D Bible Mapbook And so We Came to Rome

1. On Malta, Paul recovers from a snake bite and heals other sick people. They stay 3 months, until the bad weather has passed.

2. At Syracuse they stop for 3 days.

3. They reach Puteoli, one of the great ports of the empire. Paul and friends stay with the local believers for a week.

4. They now set out on the 100 mile journey to Rome. Paul is worried and apprehensive, but is encouraged when believers from Rome come out to welcome him.

5. Paul is kept under house arrest in Rome, awaiting his trial. For 2 years he rents a house and has considerable freedom to preach.

All Things To All People – Teaching of Paul

Which letters did Paul write?

Wish it was always clear cut, this is who wrote them. Not. The writing of books has and always will be argued. Roman, Corinthians, Galatians, Philippians, Philemon, 1 Thessalonians have the strongest evidence for Pauline authorship. The other 6 are arguable. We will go with the tradition that Paul wrote all thirteen

Books

Galatians ca. A.D. 48

1 Thessalonians A.D. 50

2 Thessalonians A.D. 50

1 Corinthians A.D. 55–56

2 Corinthians A.D. 56–57

Romans A.D. 57

Ephesians A.D. 60–62

Philippians A.D. 60–62

Colossians A.D. 60–62

Philemon A.D. 60–62

1 Timothy ca. A.D. 63–66

Titus ca. A.D. 63–66

2 Timothy ca. A.D. 67

Some would include Hebrews

Paul’s Teaching

God

Paul will emphasize the glory of God in Christ. God is infinite, wise, all knowing. God is the center, to him and through him. Will speak in Trinitarian language but will emphasize God’s oneness.

Evil and the Human Dilemma

In Paul’s Theology Evil is real and influential. The Devil is behind the Evil. In the End the Devil and Evil will be crushed. We are slaves to sin, through the savior freed, need the savior.

Law

Paul will embrace the law. Jew of Jews, But will condemn legalism. Realizes that we are all sinners, fallen short. Hate to do the things I Do. Law cannot save. Condemn law because of legalism. Encourage Law because of Faith. We are Justified through Faith. We are Sanctified though Works. Justified, made righteous. Sanctified, made holy, Set apart. We do the law not to save us but because we are saved.

People of God

Paul believes that Israel was Chosen, Through the blood of Jesus Christ the fulfillment of Prophesies. Promise extends to those who believe.

Messiah

High view of the Christ, Jew of Jew.

Redemption

Substitution Atonement, Idea that Christ died in place of sinners. Bearing the punishment that should have been theirs, perfect lamb. Save us from punishment of our sin.

Cross

Roman world it was a Source of shame and torture. For Paul, Symbolic for the atonement of Christ, Source of Strength. Stands with the knowledge of Resurrection.

Resurrection

Main theme in Paul’s Letter. Jesus Christ was Resurrected is not dead but lives. Victory over sin and death. Becoming Christ like we to will be resurrected

Ethics

Summed up in three words: Faith, Hope, Love. Good works come out of these three things, Follow these three things live a moral life.

Church

Christ died to rescue the body as well as the individual. Body of Believers Christ is the head. emphasizes the importance of Church

Last things

Eschatology. Kingdom of God is at hand. Seemed to believe in his life time. should be set apart so that when Jesus does come not caught of Guard.

How are letters written

Books to be helpful in this Paul and First-Century Letter Writing by Randolph Richards and Paul the Letter-Writer by Jerome Murphy-O'Connor.

https://youtu.be/ZPZ2uABVMKA - New Testament Letters: Literary Context

Letters were written in groups, didn’t have a study. Could have been in the making for weeks and even months. Would even have wax tablets where notes could be taken before writing and even erasing them. Parchment would have been the permanent method of keeping material. Then need to get a scribe or secretary to write. Have to agree in the price. Timothy probably could have Britten by mostly would have hired a professorial because of the price of the material. Paper, ink, pens expensive. Then a first draft would have been written, probably giving the scribe notes on tablets, and through vocal notes. Final draft would have been approved and finally put on bet material in best handwriting.

https://youtu.be/GZuceW7eh5M - New Testament Letters: Historical Context

Romans

Roman’s has the most theology in it out of all the rest of Paul’s Letters. First of Paul’s Letters in New Testament, Not first Written. Written during his third missionary Journey CA AD 57 in Corinth. placed first because our bile Starts with the longest of Paul’s letters and works to the shortest.

Roman’s Influence

One of the most influential books that has changed the society which we live in and the church we go too.

Augustine -Pagan Philosopher Read Romans 13:13-14

Rom 13:13-14 KJVA Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. (14) But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Romans 13:13–14 LEB

13 Let us live decently, as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and licentiousness, not in strife and jealousy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ and do not make provision for the desires of the flesh.

Realized that his life was full of lust and drunkenness and needed to be saved

Martin Luther (Not King)

Rom 1:17 KJVA For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Romans 1:17 LEB

17 For the righteousness of God is revealed in it from faith to faith, just as it is written, “But the one who is righteous by faith will live.”

At this point he wishes to reform the Catholic Church and change some of its practices, a major one being the sell of indulgences. After this a series of events in his life and the lives of others, lead to the protestant reformation

Roman Road - I learn on and use all the time

Rom 3:23 KJVA For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Rom 6:23 KJVA For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Rom 5:8 KJVA But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Rom 10:9-10 KJVA 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. (10) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Rom 10:13 KJVA For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

City of Rome

100 million inhabitant - domain extended Great Britain, Germany, Iran, Nile in Egypt.

Known as the City of 7 Hills. Had great buildings. Was the seat of the Empire. Home of the Coliseum. Machine made for entertainment.

Home of a religious revival

Watch Video: “Wonders of the Ancient World Ancient Rome”

Will be home to some of the most influential religious leaders:

Clement of Rome

Justin Martyr

Clement of Alexandria

Origen

Polycarp

Irenaeus

Tertullian

Eusebius

We are not told how Christianity came to Rome in the first place. Probably came to Rome first with Jews ho heard Peter’s preaching at Pentecost and brought back. Ancient tradition state that Peter ministered in Rome in Late Ad 30’s. By AD 49 the Christian presence among Jews in Rome was great enough to provoke riots in the community.

Themes of Romans

Salvation of Individual

Salvation of the World

Occasion and purpose

Paul writes in part to rally support for the upcoming mission to Spain

Theological - Teach about salvation on further Christ’s Kingdom

Paul’s own concerns - Personal hopes and passions

Paul’s concerned for others, especially the church

Outline

Introduction: The Generosity of Servanthood 1:1–18

Diagnosis: The Knowledge of God and the Sinful Fall of Humanity 1:19–3:20

Prognosis I: Justified by Faith in Jesus Christ 3:21–8:17

Prognosis II: Subjected to Futility, Subjected in Hope 8:18–11:36

Prescription: Faithful Servants in Action 12:1–15:13

Conclusion 15:14–16:27

Introduction 1:1-18

Romans 1:1–18 LEB

Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised previously through his prophets in the holy scriptures, concerning his Son, who was born a descendant of David according to the flesh, who was declared Son of God in power according to the Holy Spirit by the resurrection from the dead of Jesus Christ our Lord, through whom we have received grace and apostleship for the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles on behalf of his name, among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ. To all those in Rome who are loved by God, called to be saints. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I give thanks to my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being proclaimed in the whole world. For God, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, is my witness, how constantly I make mention of you, always asking in my prayers if somehow now at last I may succeed to come to you in the will of God. For I desire to see you, in order that I may impart some spiritual gift to you, in order to strengthen you, that is, to be encouraged together with you through our mutual faith, both yours and mine. Now I do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, that often I intended to come to you, and was prevented until now, in order that I might have some fruit among you also, just as also among the rest of the Gentiles. I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. Thus I am eager to proclaim the gospel also to you who are in Rome. For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For the righteousness of God is revealed in it from faith to faith, just as it is written, “But the one who is righteous by faith will live.” For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all impiety and unrighteousness of people, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,

Begins with the longest of all Paul’s Introductory statements

Starts with his name as is custom in writings in this time period. Servant of Christ Jesus “slave” of Christ.

He will give thanks to the readers another custom of the day and he will express his desire to visit Rome. Obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are at Rome

Romans 1:14–15 LEB

I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. Thus I am eager to proclaim the gospel also to you who are in Rome.

Romans 1:16 LEB

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Powerful passage (Romans 1:16)

Rom 1:16 KJVA 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.

Not ashamed. How does this work in today's society. With all the words out there are we ever ashamed of christ. Maybe what has been done in Christ name. This not ashamed is easy to say but it is what will get Paul killed.

This letter is for all those who would hear as is Paul’s Desire to preach.

Diagnosis (1:19-3:20)

Romans 1:19–3:20 LEB

because what can be known about God is evident among them, for God made it clear to them. For from the creation of the world, his invisible attributes, both his eternal power and deity, are discerned clearly, being understood in the things created, so that they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their reasoning, and their senseless hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God with the likeness of an image of mortal human beings and birds and quadrupeds and reptiles. Therefore God gave them over in the desires of their hearts to immorality, that their bodies would be dishonored among themselves, who exchanged the truth of God with a lie, and worshiped and served the creation rather than the Creator, who is blessed for eternity. Amen. Because of this, God gave them over to degrading passions, for their females exchanged the natural relations for those contrary to nature, and likewise also the males, abandoning the natural relations with the female, were inflamed in their desire toward one another, males with males committing the shameless deed, and receiving in themselves the penalty that was necessary for their error. And just as they did not see fit to recognize God, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do the things that are not proper, being filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greediness, malice, full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malevolence. They are gossipers, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boasters, contrivers of evil, disobedient to parents, senseless, faithless, unfeeling, unmerciful, who, although they know the requirements of God, that those who do such things are worthy of death, not only do they do the same things, but also they approve of those who do them. Therefore you are without excuse, O man, every one of you who passes judgment. For in that which you pass judgment on someone else, you condemn yourself, for you who are passing judgment are doing the same things. Now we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who do such things. But do you think this, O man who passes judgment on those who do such things, and who does the same things, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you despise the wealth of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance? But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart, you are storing up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and of the revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who will reward each one according to his works: to those who, by perseverance in good work, seek glory and honor and immortality, eternal life, but to those who act from selfish ambition and who disobey the truth, but who obey unrighteousness, wrath and anger. There will be affliction and distress for every human being who does evil, of the Jew first and of the Greek, but glory and honor and peace to everyone who does good, to the Jew first and to the Greek. For there is no partiality with God. For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned under the law will be judged by the law. For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be declared righteous. For whenever the Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature the things of the law, these, although they do not have the law, are a law to themselves, who show the work of the law written on their hearts, their conscience bearing witness and their thoughts one after another accusing or even defending them on the day when God judges the secret things of people, according to my gospel, through Christ Jesus. But if you call yourself a Jew and rely on the law and boast in God and know his will and approve the things that are superior, because you are instructed by the law, and are confident that you yourself are a guide of the blind, a light of those in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of the immature, having the embodiment of knowledge and of the truth in the law. Therefore, the one who teaches someone else, do you not teach yourself? The one who preaches not to steal, do you steal? The one who says not to commit adultery, do you commit adultery? The one who abhors idols, do you rob temples? Who boast in the law, by the transgression of the law you dishonor God! For just as it is written, “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” For circumcision is of value if you do the law, but if you should be a transgressor of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. Therefore, if the uncircumcised person follows the requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be credited for circumcision? And the uncircumcised person by nature who carries out the law will judge you who, though provided with the precise written code and circumcision are a transgressor of the law. For the Jew is not one outwardly, nor is circumcision outwardly, in the flesh. But the Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter, whose praise is not from people but from God. Therefore, what is the advantage of the Jew, or what is the use of circumcision? Much in every way. For first, that they were entrusted with the oracles of God. What is the result if some refused to believe? Their unbelief will not nullify the faithfulness of God, will it? May it never be! But let God be true but every human being a liar, just as it is written, “In order that you may be justified in your words, and may prevail when you are judged.” But if our unrighteousness demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? God, who inflicts wrath, is not unjust, is he? (I am speaking according to a human perspective.) May it never be! For otherwise, how will God judge the world? But if by my lying, the truth of God abounded to his glory, why am I also still condemned as a sinner? And why not (as we are slandered, and as some affirm that we say), “Let us do evil, in order that good may come of it”? Their condemnation is just! What then? Do we have an advantage? Not at all. For we have already charged both Jews and Greeks are all under sin, just as it is written, “There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. All have turned aside together; they have become worthless; There is no one who practices kindness; there is not even one. Their throat is an opened grave; they deceive with their tongues; the venom of asps is under their lips, whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness. Their feet are swift to shed blood; destruction and distress are in their paths, and they have not known the way of peace. The fear of God is not before their eyes.” Now we know that whatever the law says, it speaks to those under the law, in order that every mouth may be closed and the whole world may become accountable to God. For by the works of the law no person will be declared righteous before him, for through the law comes knowledge of sin.

Paul launches into a lengthy exposure of the sinfulness of man. Good news is so good because Bad news is so bad. All people are cut off from God and subject to eternal judgment. Paul must convince the people of their sin, until people are persuaded of their lost condition. They are not likely to be concerned about deliverance. Paul demonstrates the lack of righteousness God requires.

False worship has infiltrated the people. Rome capital city of a pagan religion. Not just the obviously wicked. All have fallen short, Jews and Gentiles alike.

Prognosis 1: Justified by Faith in Jesus Christ (3:21-8:17)

Romans 3:21–8:17 LEB

But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been revealed, being testified about by the law and the prophets—that is, the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. For there is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by his grace, through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God made publicly available as the mercy seat through faith in his blood, for a demonstration of his righteousness, because of the passing over of previously committed sins, in the forbearance of God, for the demonstration of his righteousness in the present time, so that he should be just and the one who justifies the person by faith in Jesus. Therefore, where is boasting? It has been excluded. By what kind of law? Of works? No, but by a law of faith. For we consider a person to be justified by faith apart from the works of the law. Or is God the God of the Jews only? Is he not also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, also of the Gentiles, since God is one, who will justify those who are circumcised by faith and those who are uncircumcised through faith. Therefore, do we nullify the law through faith? May it never be! But we uphold the law. What then shall we say that Abraham, our ancestor according to the flesh, has found? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the scripture say? “And Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him for righteousness.” Now to the one who works, his pay is not credited according to grace, but according to his due. But to the one who does not work, but who believes in the one who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited for righteousness, just as David also speaks about the blessing of the person to whom God credits righteousness apart from works: “Blessed are they whose lawless deeds have been forgiven, and whose sins are covered over. Blessed is the person against whom the Lord will never count sin.” Therefore, is this blessing for those who are circumcised, or also for those who are uncircumcised? For we say, “Faith was credited to Abraham for righteousness.” How then was it credited? While he was circumcised or uncircumcised? Not while circumcised but while uncircumcised! And he received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness by faith which he had while uncircumcised, so that he could be the father of all who believe although they are uncircumcised, so that righteousness could be credited to them, and the father of those who are circumcised to those who are not only from the circumcision, but who also follow in the footsteps of the faith of our father Abraham which he had while uncircumcised. For the promise to Abraham or to his descendants, that he would be heir of the world, was not through the law, but through the righteousness by faith. For if those of the law are heirs, faith is rendered void and the promise is nullified. For the law produces wrath, but where there is no law, neither is there transgression. Because of this, it is by faith, in order that it may be according to grace, so that the promise may be secure to all the descendants, not only to those of the law, but also to those of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all (just as it is written, “I have made you the father of many nations”) before God, in whom he believed, the one who makes the dead alive and who calls the things that are not as though they are, who against hope believed in hope, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was said, “so will your descendants be.” And not being weak in faith, he considered his own body as good as dead, because he was approximately a hundred years old, and the deadness of Sarah’s womb. And he did not waver in unbelief at the promise of God, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God and being fully convinced that what he had promised, he was also able to do. Therefore it was credited to him for righteousness. But it was not written for the sake of him alone that it was credited to him, but also for the sake of us to whom it is going to be credited, to those who believe in the one who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was handed over on account of our trespasses, and was raised up in the interest of our justification. Therefore, because we have been declared righteous by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we boast in the hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also boast in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces patient endurance, and patient endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. For while we were still helpless, yet at the proper time Christ died for the ungodly. For only rarely will someone die on behalf of a righteous person (for on behalf of a good person possibly someone might even dare to die), but God demonstrates his own love for us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Therefore, by much more, because we have been declared righteous now by his blood, we will be saved through him from the wrath. For if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, by much more, having been reconciled, we will be saved by his life. And not only this, but also we are boasting in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. Because of this, just as sin entered into the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death spread to all people because all sinned. For until the law, sin was in the world, but sin is not charged to one’s account when there is no law. But death reigned from Adam until Moses even over those who did not sin in the likeness of the transgression of Adam, who is a type of the one who is to come. But the gift is not like the trespass, for if by the trespass of the one, the many died, by much more did the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, multiply to the many. And the gift is not as through the one who sinned, for on the one hand, judgment from the one sin led to condemnation, but the gift, from many trespasses, led to justification. For if by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through the one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one, Jesus Christ. Consequently therefore, as through one trespass came condemnation to all people, so also through one righteous deed came justification of life to all people. For just as through the disobedience of the one man, the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one, the many will be made righteous. Now the law came in as a side issue, in order that the trespass could increase, but where sin increased, grace was present in greater abundance, so that just as sin reigned in death, so also grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. What therefore shall we say? Shall we continue in sin, in order that grace may increase? May it never be! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Or do you not know that as many as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Therefore we have been buried with him through baptism into death, in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so also we may live a new way of life. For if we have become identified with him in the likeness of his death, certainly also we will be identified with him in the likeness of his resurrection, knowing this, that our old man was crucified together with him, in order that the body of sin may be done away with, that we may no longer be enslaved to sin. For the one who has died has been freed from sin. Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him, knowing that Christ, because he has been raised from the dead, is going to die no more, death no longer being master over him. For that death he died, he died to sin once and never again, but that life he lives, he lives to God. So also you, consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, so that you obey its desires, and do not present your members to sin as instruments of unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who are alive from the dead, and your members to God as instruments of righteousness. For sin will not be master over you, because you are not under law, but under grace. What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? May it never be! Do you not know that to whomever you present yourselves as slaves for obedience, you are slaves to whomever you obey, whether sin, leading to death, or obedience, leading to righteousness? But thanks be to God that you were slaves of sin, but you have obeyed from the heart the pattern of teaching to which you were entrusted, and having been set free from sin, you became enslaved to righteousness. (I am speaking in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh.) For just as you presented your members as slaves to immorality and lawlessness, leading to lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness, leading to sanctification. For when you were slaves of sin, you were free with respect to righteousness. Therefore what sort of fruit did you have then, about which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now, having been set free from sin and having been enslaved to God, you have your fruit leading to sanctification, and its end is eternal life. For the compensation due sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Or do you not know, brothers (for I am speaking to those who know the law), that the law is master of a person for as long a time as he lives? For the married woman is bound by law to her husband while he lives, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law of the husband. Therefore as a result, if she belongs to another man while her husband is living, she will be called an adulteress. But if her husband dies, she is free from the law, so that she is not an adulteress if she belongs to another man. So then, my brothers, you also were brought to death with respect to the law through the body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to the one who was raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God. For when we were in the flesh, sinful desires were working through the law in our members, to bear fruit for death. But now we have been released from the law, because we have died to that by which we were bound, so that we may serve in newness of the Spirit and not in oldness of the letter of the law. What then shall we say? Is the law sin? May it never be! But I would not have known sin except through the law, for I would not have known covetousness if the law had not said, “Do not covet.” But sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, produced in me all kinds of covetousness. For apart from the law, sin is dead. And I was alive once, apart from the law, but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life and I died, and this commandment which was to lead to life was found with respect to me to lead to death. For sin, seizing the opportunity through the commandment, deceived me and through it killed me. So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good. Therefore, did that which is good become death to me? May it never be! Rather it was sin, in order that it might be recognized as sin, producing death through what is good for me, in order that sin might become sinful to an extraordinary degree through the commandment. For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am fleshly, sold into slavery to sin. For what I am doing I do not understand, because what I want to do, this I do not practice, but what I hate, this I do. But if what I do not want to do, this I do, I agree with the law that it is good. But now I am no longer the one doing it, but sin that lives in me. For I know that good does not live in me, that is, in my flesh. For the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not. For the good that I want to do, I do not do, but the evil that I do not want to do, this I do. But if what I do not want to do, this I am doing, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin that lives in me. Consequently, I find the principle with me, the one who wants to do good, that evil is present with me. For I joyfully agree with the law of God in my inner person, but I observe another law in my members, at war with the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that exists in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself with my mind am enslaved to the law of God, but with my flesh I am enslaved to the law of sin. Consequently, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what was impossible for the law, in that it was weak through the flesh, God did. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and concerning sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the requirement of the law would be fulfilled in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who are living according to the flesh are intent on the things of the flesh, but those who are living according to the Spirit are intent on the things of the Spirit. For the mindset of the flesh is death, but the mindset of the Spirit is life and peace, because the mindset of the flesh is enmity toward God, for it is not subjected to the law of God, for it is not able to do so, and those who are in the flesh are not able to please God. But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, this person does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, the one who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also make alive your mortal bodies through his Spirit who lives in you. So then, brothers, we are obligated not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh, you are going to die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all those who are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself confirms to our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer together with him so that we may also be glorified together with him.

There is hope for sinners, Because of Jesus Christ. Sinners can receive new life. God looks at them as righteous because of the blood of Christ. Righteousness comes through faith.

Faith. Paul was a Pharisee, Jew among Jews. Saul would have that he could earn God’s favor. Paul however rejects that Idea. It is through Faith and the Grace of God. Not of our own self.

Prognosis II: Redeemed by Grace (8:18-11:36)

Romans 8:18–11:36 LEB

For I consider that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is about to be revealed to us. For the eagerly expecting creation awaits eagerly the revelation of the sons of God. For the creation has been subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be set free from its servility to decay, into the glorious freedom of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans together and suffers agony together until now. Not only this, but we ourselves also, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves while we await eagerly our adoption, the redemption of our body. For in hope we were saved, but hope that is seen is not hope, for who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we await it eagerly with patient endurance. And likewise also, the Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as one ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with unexpressed groanings. And the one who searches our hearts knows what the mindset of the Spirit is, because he intercedes on behalf of the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose, because those whom he foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he should be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined, these he also called, and those whom he called, these he also justified, and those whom he justified, these he also glorified. What then shall we say about these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Indeed, he who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all, how will he not also, together with him, freely give us all things? Who will bring charges against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies. Who is the one who condemns? Christ is the one who died, and more than that, who was raised, who is also at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will affliction or distress or persecution or hunger or lack of sufficient clothing or danger or the sword? Just as it is written, “On account of you we are being put to death the whole day long; we are considered as sheep for slaughter.” No, but in all these things we prevail completely through the one who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. I am telling the truth in Christ—I am not lying; my conscience bears witness to me in the Holy Spirit—that my grief is great and there is constant distress in my heart. For I could wish myself to be accursed from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my fellow countrymen according to the flesh, who are Israelites, to whom belong the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the temple service, and the promises, to whom belong the patriarchs, and from whom is the Christ according to human descent, who is God over all, blessed forever! Amen. But it is not as if the word of God had failed. For not all those who are descended from Israel are truly Israel, nor are they all children because they are descendants of Abraham, but “In Isaac will your descendants be named.” That is, it is not the children by human descent who are children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as descendants. For the statement of the promise is this: “At this time I will return and Sarah will have a son.” And not only this, but also when Rebecca conceived children by one man, Isaac our father—for although they had not yet been born, or done anything good or evil, in order that the purpose of God according to election might remain, not by works but by the one who calls—it was said to her, “The older will serve the younger,” just as it is written, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” What then shall we say? There is no injustice with God, is there? May it never be! For to Moses he says, “I will have mercy on whomever I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whomever I have compassion.” Consequently therefore, it does not depend on the one who wills or on the one who runs, but on God who shows mercy. For the scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very reason I have raised you up, so that I may demonstrate my power in you, and so that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” Consequently therefore, he has mercy on whomever he wishes, and he hardens whomever he wishes. Therefore you will say to me, “Why then does he still find fault? For who has resisted his will? On the contrary, O man, who are you who answers back to God? Will what is molded say to the one who molded it, “Why did you make me like this”? Or does the potter not have authority over the clay, to make from the same lump a vessel that is for honorable use and one that is for ordinary use? And what if God, wanting to demonstrate his wrath and to make known his power, endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction? And he did so in order that he could make known the riches of his glory upon vessels of mercy that he prepared beforehand for glory, us whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles? As he also says in Hosea, “I will call those who were not my people, ‘My people,’ and those who were not loved, ‘Loved.’ And it will be in the place where it was said to them, ‘You are not my people,’ there they will be called ‘sons of the living God.’ ” And Isaiah cries out concerning Israel, “Even if the number of the sons of Israel is like the sand of the sea, the remnant will be saved, for the Lord will execute his sentence thoroughly and decisively upon the earth.” And just as Isaiah foretold, “If the Lord of hosts had not left us descendants, we would have become like Sodom and would have resembled Gomorrah.” What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, attained righteousness—even the righteousness that is by faith. But Israel, pursuing the law of righteousness, did not attain to the law. Why that? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if by works. They stumbled over the stone that causes people to stumble, just as it is written, “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone that causes people to stumble, and a rock that causes them to fall, and the one who believes in him will not be put to shame.” Brothers, the desire of my heart and my prayer to God on behalf of them is for their salvation. For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For ignoring the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not subject themselves to the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. For Moses writes about the righteousness that is from the law: “The person who does this will live by it.” But the righteousness from faith speaks like this: “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’ ” (that is, to bring Christ down), or “Who will descend into the abyss?” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? “The word is near to you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim), that if you confess with your mouth “Jesus is Lord” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation. For the scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord is Lord of all, who is rich to all who call upon him. For “everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.” How then will they call upon him in whom they have not believed? And how will they believe in him about whom they have not heard? And how will they hear about him without one who preaches to them? And how will they preach, unless they are sent? Just as it is written, “How timely are the feet of those who bring good news of good things.” But not all have obeyed the good news, for Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?” Consequently, faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word about Christ. But I say, they have not heard, have they? On the contrary, “Their voice has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the inhabited world.” But I say, Israel did not know, did they? First, Moses says, “I will provoke you to jealousy by those who are not a nation; by a senseless nation I will provoke you to anger.” And Isaiah is very bold and says, “I was found by those who did not seek me; I became known to those who did not ask for me.” But about Israel he says, “The whole day long I held out my hands to a disobedient and resistant people.” Therefore I say, God has not rejected his people, has he? May it never be! For I also am an Israelite, from the descendants of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. God has not rejected his people, whom he foreknew! Or do you not know, in the passage about Elijah, what the scripture says—how he appeals to God against Israel? “Lord, they have killed your prophets, they have torn down your altars, and I alone am left, and they are seeking my life!” But what does the divine response say to him? “I have left for myself seven thousand people who have not bent the knee to Baal.” So in this way also at the present time, there is a remnant selected by grace. But if by grace, it is no longer by works, for otherwise grace would no longer be grace. What then? What Israel was searching for, this it did not obtain. But the elect obtained it, and the rest were hardened, just as it is written, “God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that do not see and ears that do not hear, until this very day.” And David says, “Let their table become a snare and a trap, and a cause for stumbling and a retribution to them; let their eyes be darkened so that they do not see, and cause their backs to bend continually.” I say then, they did not stumble so that they fell, did they? May it never be! But by their trespass, salvation has come to the Gentiles, in order to provoke them to jealousy. And if their trespass means riches for the world and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will their fullness mean? Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Therefore, inasmuch as I am apostle to the Gentiles, I promote my ministry, if somehow I may provoke my people to jealousy and save some of them. For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean except life from the dead? Now if the first fruits are holy, so also is the whole batch of dough, and if the root is holy, so also are the branches. Now if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although you were a wild olive tree, were grafted in among them and became a sharer of the root of the olive tree’s richness, do not boast against the branches. But if you boast against them, you do not support the root, but the root supports you. Then you will say, “Branches were broken off in order that I could be grafted in.” Well said! They were broken off because of unbelief, but you stand firm because of faith. Do not think arrogant thoughts, but be afraid. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you. See, then, the kindness and severity of God: severity upon those who have fallen, but upon you the kindness of God—if you continue in his kindness, for otherwise you also will be cut off. And those also, if they do not persist in unbelief, will be grafted in, because God is able to graft them in again. For if you were cut off from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these who are natural branches be grafted into their own olive tree? For I do not want you to be ignorant, brothers, of this mystery, so that you will not be wise in your own sight, that a partial hardening has happened to Israel, until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, and so all Israel will be saved, just as it is written, “The deliverer will come out of Zion; he will turn away ungodliness from Jacob. And this is the covenant from me with them when I take away their sins.” With respect to the gospel, they are enemies for your sake, but with respect to election, they are dearly loved for the sake of the fathers. For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. For just as you formerly were disobedient to God, but now have been shown mercy because of the disobedience of these, so also these have now been disobedient for your mercy, in order that they also may now be shown mercy. For God confined them all in disobedience, in order that he could have mercy on them all. Oh, the depth of the riches and the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how incomprehensible are his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor? Or who has given in advance to him, and it will be paid back to him?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory for eternity! Amen.

It is through the grace of God that one can be saved not of works. There is no denying Election is at work here. how much in the argument however.

Grace of God. even though those he has chosen have rejected him, not all Jews. lets not be anti-Semitic. God has still grace to give to us, and to take away the punishment of our sins, for those who will confess and believe

Prescription (12:1-15:13)

Romans 12:1–15:13 LEB

Therefore I exhort you, brothers, through the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, so that you may approve what is the good and well-pleasing and perfect will of God. For by the grace given to me I say to everyone who is among you not to think more highly of yourself than what one ought to think, but to think sensibly, as God has apportioned a measure of faith to each one. For just as in one body we have many members, but all the members do not have the same function, in the same way we who are many are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another, but having different gifts according to the grace given to us: if it is prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if it is service, by service; if it is one who teaches, by teaching; if it is one who exhorts, by exhortation; one who gives, with sincerity; one who leads, with diligence; one who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Love must be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; be attached to what is good, being devoted to one another in brotherly love, esteeming one another more highly in honor, not lagging in diligence, being enthusiastic in spirit, serving the Lord, rejoicing in hope, enduring in affliction, being devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, pursuing hospitality. Bless those who persecute, bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep. Think the same thing toward one another; do not think arrogantly, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own sight. Pay back no one evil for evil. Take thought for what is good in the sight of all people. If it is possible on your part, be at peace with all people. Do not take revenge yourselves, dear friends, but give place to God’s wrath, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. But “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by doing this, you will heap up coals of fire upon his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except by God, and those that exist are put in place by God. So then, the one who resists authority resists the ordinance which is from God, and those who resist will receive condemnation on themselves. For rulers are not a cause of terror for a good deed, but for bad conduct. So do you want not to be afraid of authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from it, for it is God’s servant to you for what is good. But if you do what is bad, be afraid, because it does not bear the sword to no purpose. For it is God’s servant, the one who avenges for punishment on the one who does what is bad. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath but also because of conscience. For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are servants of God, busily engaged in this very thing. Pay to everyone what is owed: pay taxes to whom taxes are due; pay customs duties to whom customs duties are due; pay respect to whom respect is due; pay honor to whom honor is due. Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another, for the one who loves someone else has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, you shall not commit murder, you shall not steal, you shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are summed up in this statement: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does not commit evil against a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. And do this because you know the time, that it is already the hour for you to wake up from sleep. For our salvation is nearer now than when we believed. The night is far gone, and the day has drawn near. Therefore let us throw off the deeds of darkness and put on the weapons of light. Let us live decently, as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and licentiousness, not in strife and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ and do not make provision for the desires of the flesh. Now receive the one who is weak in faith, but not for quarrels about opinions. One believes he may eat all things, but the one who is weak eats only vegetables. The one who eats must not despise the one who does not eat, and the one who does not eat must not judge the one who eats, because God has accepted him. Who are you, who passes judgment on the domestic slave belonging to someone else? To his own master he stands or falls, and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand. One person prefers one day over another day, and another person regards every day alike. Each one must be fully convinced in his own mind. The one who is intent on the day is intent on it for the Lord, and the one who eats eats for the Lord, because he is thankful to God, and the one who does not eat does not eat for the Lord, and he is thankful to God. For none of us lives for himself and none dies for himself. For if we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord. Therefore whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For Christ died and became alive again for this reason, in order that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living. But why do you judge your brother? Or also, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. For it is written, “As I live, says the Lord, every knee will bow to me, and every tongue will praise God.” So each one of us will give an account concerning himself. Therefore, let us no longer pass judgment on one another, but rather decide this: not to place a cause for stumbling or a temptation before a brother. I know and am convinced in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean of itself, except to the one who considers something to be unclean; to that person it is unclean. For if because of food, your brother is grieved, you are no longer living according to love. Do not destroy by your food that person for whom Christ died. Therefore do not let your good be slandered. For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For the one who serves Christ in this way is well-pleasing to God and approved by people. So then, let us pursue what promotes peace and what edifies one another. Do not destroy the work of God on account of food. All things are clean, but it is wrong for the person who eats and stumbles in the process. It is good not to eat meat or to drink wine or to do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is weakened. The faith that you have, have with respect to yourself before God. Blessed is the one who does not pass judgment on himself by what he approves. But the one who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not do so from faith, and everything that is not from faith is sin. But we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each one of us please his neighbor for his good, for the purpose of edification. For even Christ did not please himself, but just as it is written, “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” For whatever was written beforehand was written for our instruction, in order that through patient endurance and through the encouragement of the scriptures we may have hope. Now may the God of patient endurance and of encouragement grant you to be in agreement with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that with one mind you may glorify with one mouth the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore accept one another, just as Christ also has accepted you, to the glory of God. For I say, Christ has become a servant of the circumcision on behalf of the truth of God, in order to confirm the promises to the fathers, and that the Gentiles may glorify God for his mercy, just as it is written, “Because of this, I will praise you among the Gentiles, and I will sing praise to your name.” And again it says, “Rejoice, Gentiles, with his people.” And again, “Praise the Lord, all the Gentiles, and let all the peoples praise him.” And again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse will come, even the one who rises to rule over the Gentiles; in him the Gentiles will put their hope.” Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Offer yourselves as holy sacrifices to God

Worship God not just with singing. Worship through actions 12:1

Love

Faith

Brings righteousness

Hope

through God’s Grace

Love

Because we were first loved

Love must be sincere

Hate what is evil; cling to what is good

Romans 12:9 LEB

Love must be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; be attached to what is good,

Loving those around us and therefore sanctifying ourselves. Submitting yourselves to authorities. Loving the weak. Love For the end is near.

Conclusion (15:14-16:27)

Romans 15:14–16:27 LEB

Now I myself also am convinced about you, my brothers, that you yourselves also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to instruct one another. But I have written to you more boldly on some points, so as to remind you again because of the grace that has been given to me by God, with the result that I am a servant of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles, serving the gospel of God as a priest, in order that the offering of the Gentiles may become acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Therefore I have a reason for boasting in Christ Jesus regarding the things concerning God. For I will not dare to speak about anything except that which Christ has accomplished through me, resulting in the obedience of the Gentiles by word and deed, by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit, so that from Jerusalem and traveling around as far as Illyricum I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. And so, having as my ambition to proclaim the gospel where Christ has not been named, in order that I will not build on the foundation belonging to someone else, but just as it is written, “Those to whom it was not announced concerning him will see, and those who have not heard will understand.” For this reason also I was hindered many times from coming to you, and now, no longer having a place in these regions, but having a desire for many years to come to you whenever I travel to Spain. For I hope while I am passing through to see you and to be sent on my way by you, whenever I have first enjoyed your company for a while. But now I am traveling to Jerusalem, serving the saints. For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem. For they were pleased to do so, and they are obligated to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual things, they ought also to serve them in material things. Therefore, after I have accomplished this and sealed this fruit for delivery to them, I will depart by way of you for Spain, and I know that when I come to you, I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ. Now I exhort you, brothers, through our Lord Jesus Christ and through the love of the Spirit, to contend along with me in your prayers on my behalf to God, that I may be rescued from those who are disobedient in Judea, and my ministry in Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, so that, coming to you with joy by the will of God, I may rest with you. Now may the God of peace be with all of you. Amen. Now I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is also a servant of the church in Cenchrea, in order that you may welcome her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever task she may have need from you, for she herself also has been a helper of many, even me myself. Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life, for which not only I am thankful, but also all the churches of the Gentiles; also greet the church in their house. Greet Epenetus my dear friend, who is the first convert of Asia for Christ. Greet Mary, who has worked hard for you. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my compatriots and my fellow prisoners, who are well known to the apostles, who were also in Christ before me. Greet Ampliatus, my dear friend in the Lord. Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my dear friend Stachys. Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ. Greet those of the household of Aristobulus. Greet Herodion my compatriot. Greet those of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord. Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, the laborers in the Lord. Greet Persis, the dear friend who has worked hard in the Lord. Greet Rufus, the chosen one in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas, and the brothers with them. Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you. Now I exhort you, brothers, to look out for those who cause dissensions and temptations contrary to the teaching which you learned, and stay away from them. For such people do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own stomach, and by smooth speech and flattery they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. For the report of your obedience has reached to all; therefore I am rejoicing over you, and I want you to be wise toward what is good, but innocent toward what is evil. And in a short time the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Timothy, my fellow worker, greets you, and Lucius and Jason and Sosipater, my compatriots. I, Tertius, the one who wrote this letter, greet you in the Lord. Gaius, my host and the host of the whole church, greets you. Erastus the city treasurer greets you, and Quartus the brother. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you. Amen.

Paul outlines his unique insight and mission in taking the Good News to the Gentiles

calls for support on his proposed mission to Spain

Ask for prayer

Passes on greetings to various Roman believers

Concludes with a doxology

Romans 16:25–27 CSB

Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation about Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept silent for long ages but now revealed and made known through the prophetic Scriptures, according to the command of the eternal God to advance the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles—to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ—to him be the glory forever! Amen.

Corinthians

Author

Paul

Case for Pauline authorship of 1 Corinthians

Statements in the Epistle Itself

Mentioned in 2 Peter 3:16

Clement of Rome—A.D. 95

Second-Century Figures: Ignatius, Marcion, Irenaeus

Together make the lengthiest communique to any single place. Romans is the longest single letter.

All about Church. House Church in NM. Used Corinthians as their first sermon serious. All about what the church should be and the message it should stand for.

Corinth

Largest city in first-century Greece

Capital of the province of Achaia

40 miles west of Athens

Major shipping and trading area

Thus it was an important social area, cultures were exchanged. Including traditions, languages, Religions.

Sizable Jewish Presence in Corinth

Religious area places high in trade had many religions from all the people that did business their, and lived their to do business. Venus main deity of Corinth, were others. goddess of Sexual love and Beauty. goddess of garden.

Famous for immorality. it was a sailors town and it had its red light district all over. Prostitution was both Secular and religious. There were lonely sailors and people looking for money. Sacred prostitution is associated with fertility deities. Worship of Venus is no different. Of course Roman world has especially ain the wealthy made it all about your own pleasure.

Christianity in Corinth

Paul arrived in Corinth during his second missionary journey after preaching in Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens

With the sizable Jewish Presence it opened the door for Paul to come in and preach the Good News

1 Corinthians

Why wrote

While in Ephesus Paul received word by way of three prominent leaders of the Corinthian congregation, Church being torn apart by quarreling, Dissatisfaction had arisen regarding Paul’s authority. wrote letter to deal with the matter before he could make a visit. Dealing with problems. One of the problesms we have in interepritation is the quotation mark. Greek doesn’t have one. So where is he quoting their stuff and where is he not.

Outline

Epistolary Introduction (1:1-9)

Paul’s Response to Reports about the Community at Corinth (1:10-6:20)

A Report of Factions within the Community (1:10-4:20)

A Report of Immorality, Arrogance, and Improper Judgment (5:1-6:20)

Paul’s Response to Questions from the Corinthians (7:1-16:4)

Questions about Marriage, Divorce, and Celibacy (7:1-40)

Questions about Food, Idolatry, and Freedom (8:1-11:1)

Questions about Worship, Gifts, and Order (11:2-14:40)

Questions about the Resurrection and Life in The Age To Come (15:1-58)

Questions about the Collection and Paul’s Plan (16:1-9)

The Recommendation of Others (16:10-18)

Final Greetings and Formal Closing (16:19-24)

Message

Paul commends the Corinthians for their initial reception of the Gospel But they are divided, due to heeding human rather than divine wisdom. listening to man instead of God. Many Churches go down this path. They have been trying to change the message to better meet the “needs” of the People. Can’t change the message.

1 Corinthians 14:33–36 CSB

33 since God is not a God of disorder but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints, 34 the women should be silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak, but are to submit themselves, as the law also says. 35 If they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home, since it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church. 36 Or did the word of God originate from you, or did it come to you only?

1Co 14:33-36 KJVA For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. (34) 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. (35) 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. (36) What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?

This book still deals with issues of the church

Source of argument in the church

Can a woman preach

Need to look at the Religious area

By not speaking they are being freed from

Temptation

Responsibility

False Religion

Priestess of Venus and Artemis

Still Applicable today dealing with the Church

Gifts

Don’t use them you loose them

Get rid of false teachers

Stop being accepting of the sexual and immoral practices of the outside

2 Corinthians

About a year after first Corinthians

Paul writes to praise the Corinthians for their progress, warn them of new threats. Prepare them for a third visit by Paul.

Outline

Epistolary Introduction (1:1-11)

Paul’s Explanation of His conduct in Recent Matters (1:12-2:13)

The Basis for Paul’s Behavior and an Appeal for Understanding (1:1:12-2:13)

entering into Macedonia before Corinth

broke his promise

The Cause for Paul’s Change of Plans (1:15-2:2)

The Purpose of Paul’s Last Letter (2:3-11)

The Motive for Paul’s Movement from Troas to Macedonia (2:12-13)

Paul’s Reflection upon His Ministry (2:14-5:21

The Source and Character of Paul’s Ministry (2:14-3:6a)

The Message of Paul’s Ministry (3:6b-4:6)

The Cost of Paul’s Ministry (4:7-5:10)

The Perspective of Paul’s Ministry (5:11-21)

Paul’s Appeal to the Corinthians (6:1-13:10)

An Appeal for Complete Reconciliation (6:1-7:4)

A New Basis for Appeal (7:5-16)

An Appeal for Full Response to the Collection (8:1-9:15)

An Appeal for Full Allegiance to Apostolic Authority (10:1-18)

Support for the Appeal (11:1-12:13)

The Conclusion of the Appeal (12:14-13:10)

Epistolary Conclusion (13:11-14)

Message

Theme - The way to Glory is the Way of the Cross.

Two different understandings of the Gospel.

Theologia Gloriae

Theology of Glory

Christ is a means of self betterment

The way to success

The way to power

and affirmation by pears

Corinthians accept

Theologia Crucis

Theology of the cross

True way to glory was through the cross

Suffering

Suffering is evidence of the legitimacy of his ministry

Devil’s not attacking, then you pose no threat

Galatians

Outline

Introduction 1:1–10

Paul and the Nature of His Apostleship 1:11–2:21

Treatise: The Efficacy of Grace over Law 3:1–4:7

An Appeal to the Galatians 4:8–31

Freedom in Christ 5:1–6:10

Conclusion with Personal Appeal 6:11–18

Purpose

Paul writes to call a group of Churches in Galatia back to the Gospel. They have deserted the Gospel, accepted a false Gospel.

True and False Gospel

True Gospel

God of Israel has from ancient times been working saving a people from their sins

Davis’s Descent Jesus, announced by John the Baptist, is the savior sing from god

The Message that Salvation lies in Jesus has been entrusted to Jews like Paul as well as to Non-Jews who will receive it

Old Testament prophets attest to the Good news that there is salvation in Jesus Christ

Therefore, all who hear the message about Jesus are urged to receive it and be joined to God’s People

Misguided Leadership

False teachers

Leadership that views things different from what Paul is teaching. Remember there is no Bible yet.

False teachers usually don’t start out with wild claims they work their way into it

Grace and Law

Salvation is a Gift of God

We work because of that free gift

Sanctify because we are Justified

Does not oppose the laws

just realizes that following the Law, even if its perfect

will save us

It is only through Faith that we are Justified

Ephesians

Port city at the mouth of the Cayster River on the Aegean Sea. Capital of the Roman province of Asia. 500,000 people. The Wealthy are the civic leaders.

The Fame of Ephesus

Political Center

capital

Home of the powerful

Commercial

Trade center

Port city

Artemis Worship

goddess of animals and hunting

Greek-speaking Asia (Ephesus)

mother goddess

Here she is seen as a multi-breast woman

Virgin goddess

Helps lead to Mary Worship

This is one of her center of worship

Occult Practices

Magic arts

Sorcery

Dealing with Evil Spirits

Sounds funny today

Real

Emperor worship

Excavations have uncovered an amphitheater seating 24,000 people

https://media.faithlife.com/logos-media/165968-37192474--

Outline

Introduction 1:1–2

Re-creating the Human Family: What God Has Done 1:3–3:21

Re-creating the Human Family: What God Is Doing 4:1–6:20

Closing Remarks 6:21–24

Purpose

Recreating the Family, Body of Believers, Church

Message

Becoming the Family, The body of Christ. What does that mean, In this city of Pagan influences. Paul seeks to prepare the people for the spiritual battle that they are facing.

Ephesians 6:13–17 LEB

13 Because of this, take up the full armor of God, in order that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, girding your waist with truth, and putting on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and binding shoes under your feet with the preparation of the good news of peace, 16 in everything taking up the shield of faith, with which you are able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one, 17 and receive the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,

Isaiah 59:16-19 “16 And he saw that there was no man, and he was appalled that there was no one who intercedes, so his arm came to assist him, and his righteousness was what sustained him. 17 And he put on righteousness like a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on his head, and he put on garments of vengeance for clothing, and he wrapped himself in zeal as in a robe. 18 According to deeds, so he will repay; wrath to his enemies, requital to those who are his enemies. He will repay requital to the coastlands. 19 So they shall fear the name of Yahweh from the west, and his glory from the sunrise, for he will come like a narrow stream; the wind of Yahweh drives it on.”

Best Example of this. Put on your armor of God.

Belt of Truth

Breastplate of Righteousness

Feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the Gospel of Peace

Shield of Faith

Helmet of Salvation

Sword of the Spirit - word of God

These things are defensive and offensive aids: Defending and witnessing

Philippians

Philippi the Town. Named for Philip II of Macedon. Father of Alexander the Great. Settled after battles in the region. It is important because of its location on the Via Egnatia, Major Road going East-West. Trade zone

Outline

Introduction 1:1–11

Biographical Prologue: Paul’s Present Circumstances in Serving the Gospel 1:12–26

Exhortations to a Lifestyle Worthy of the Gospel 1:27–2:30

Warnings against False Teachings Contrary to the Gospel 3:1–4:1

Further Exhortations to Application of Earlier Themes 4:2–9

Personal Epilogue: Paul’s Gratitude for Partnership in Spreading the Gospel 4:10–20

Closing Salutation 4:21–23

Purpose

To prepare them for impending visits.

Epaphroditus

Personal aid to Paul

Sent back to Philippi for health reasons

Sends a letter with him

Timothy

Paul was planning to send him his way

Paul

wished to be able to return

Even though he was imprisoned

Update the Philippians believers to Paul’s circumstances

Personal relationship with this church. Paul was supported Financially. He will Visit numerous times.

Voices Paul’s pastoral concern for them in their present situation.

Seeks to promote: harmony among the quarreling, Christian joy and peace, sense of satisfaction of the financial support they had made.

Enemies of the Gospel

Three groups hindering the progress of the gospel: Rome itself, Troublemakers advocates of the of a false gospel Very similarity to what Paul speaks out about in Galatians, Mutilators who Combine faith in Christ with Old rituals like circumcision. Philippians themselves, Church fighting within itself. If the boat is at war with itself. Why would anyone want to get on.

Colossians

Colossae, Never Excavated so little is known about it. Located east southeast of Ephesus. Plagued by earthquakes. Paul was not the one who started the church in Colossae, Epaphras.

Outline

Salutation 1:1–2

Thanksgiving and Prayer 1:3–14

Body 1:15–3:4

Ethical Exhortations and Instructions 3:5–4:6

Closing 4:7–18

Purpose

Two fold

Assure the Colossians of his interest and care

False teaching and teachers who may be misleading some in the church

Message

Follows a Hellenistic letter form:

Salutation

Thanksgiving

Prayer

Body

Closing

Christ is the image of the invisible God. Christ is God and is they way we can know about YHWH. All Things hold together in Christ. Resist false teaching. Put to death your old self.

Old Self:

Sexual Immorality

Idolatry

Impurity

Anger

Lust

Rage

Evil Desires

Malice

Greed

Slander

Filthy Language

New person in Christ:

Compassion

Gentleness

Kindness

Patience

Humility

Philemon

Deals with a runaway slave named Onesimus

Outline

Greeting vv. 1–3

Commendation of Philemon vv. 4–7

Intercession for Onesimus vv. 8–22

Salutations and Benediction vv. 23–25

Purpose

Philemon was personal acquaintance of Paul, Lived in Colossae. Owned slaves, Common in Roman world. Onesimus ran away from his duties under Philemon. Serious crime. Punishment: Burning, Branding, Maiming, or death.

Found Paul and became a Christian. Decided that he should return to his master and straighten things out. Paul writes to Philemon urging for mercy and even that he might give Onesimus his freedom.

Thessalonians

Paul’s Second missionary journey went To Syrian Antioch, To Macedonia, Philippi, Traveled to Amphipolis, Apollonia (no Jewish synagogue there), Thessalonica. hundred miles west of Philippi.

Strong Jewish Community there. First to the Jews and then to The Gentiles. He will later write two letters encouraging the Christian church in this town. 1 and 2 Thessalonians

Thessalonica original named Therma. Cassandra son on Antipater renamed it when he enlarged it. Thessalonica was the name of his wife and Alexander the Greats sister.

Large City. Still buried under a modern city, Thessaloniki. One of the most important cities in Turkey today.

Commercial Center lay on the Via Egnatia. Major east-west trade route. Major Sea port.

Political Center, the provincial governor lived there. Leading citizens enjoyed a prosperous economy.

Home of Pagan temples. No over all deity worshiped there.

Purpose

Reason for writing. Paul founded the church in Thessalonica. During Opposition. Paul and Silas had to slip away during the cover of darkens. Mob from Thessalonica tracked them down and stirred up trouble in Berea for them. Paul was worried about the church and the Christians that were there.

Message to the Church

TEACHES

them that hard times are part of God’s plan

Paul and Jesus had to endure

Hard times which in this hostile environment are a deterrent of people converting and staying in the faith

Makes stronger believers

COMMENDS

them for their faith and love

This encourages them

He remembers in his prayers them continually

He is concerned for their long term survival

In the faith

and as the Church

ENCOURAGES

them with further instruction

Guidelines of the Faith

Morality

Christian love

things that Human beings need

We today need

very practical Book

GIVES

them insight into the last things for encouragement

Insight into the Last days gives hope

Hope is the best thing you can Give to a suffering people

God focused people

Thessalonians calls for the focus to be not on ones self but on God. Totally Contrary to the self absorbed all about pleasure attitude of the time, And times

God

36 times 1st Thessalonians

18 times 2nd Thessalonians

Jesus

16 times

13 times

Lord

24 times

22 times

Christ

10 times

10 times

1 Thessalonians

Outline

The Greeting 1:1

Personal Reminiscences 1:2–10

The Nature of the Apostolic Ministry 2:1–12

The Reception of the Gospel 2:13–16

Paul’s Concern for the Thessalonians 2:17–3:13

Exhortation to Christian Living 4:1–12

Problems Related to Christ’s Coming 4:13–5:11

The Internal Life of the Church 5:12–24

Closing Comments 5:24–28

2 Thessalonians

outline

The Greeting 1:1–2

The Judgment at Christ’s Coming 1:3–12

Events Surrounding Christ’s Coming 2:1–12

Right Attitudes Encouraged 2:13–17

Intercessory Prayer 3:1–5

Instruction in Faith and Life 3:6–15

Final Greetings 3:16–18

Pastoral Letters

What are they?

1 Timothy

2 Timothy

Titus

Why called?

Show pastoral care for their recipients. Timothy and Titus.

All Three deal with pastoral matters. By that we mean: Care of souls; Orderly conduct of God’s people in Church and the world;

Date

?

Before AD 95

probably between AD 40-60

1st Timothy

Outline

Salutation 1:1–2

Warnings against False Teachers 1:3–7

The Proper Use of the Law 1:8–11

God’s Grace to Paul 1:12–17

Paul’s Charge to Timothy 1:18–20

Instructions concerning Prayer 2:1–8

Instructions to Women 2:9–15

Overseers and Deacons 3:1–16

False Asceticism 4:1–5

Ministerial Training 4:6–16

Christian Duties 5:1–6:2

Final Indictment of False Teachers 6:3–5

The Love of Money 6:6–10

Final Exhortation 6:11–16

Instruction for the Rich 6:17–19

Final Admonition 6:20-21

Occasion and Message

Strengthening Timothy. Who is preaching in Ephesus. That is why when you look at the outline. It deals with many of the same things Ephesians did. He will deal with false teachings and the correction of them.

2 Timothy

Outline

Salutation 1:1–2

Encouragement to Be Faithful 1:3–18

Be Strong and Suffer Hardship 2:1–13

What an Approved Workman Needs to Know and Do 2:14–26

The Difficult Times of the Last Days 3:1–9

Another Appeal to Timothy to Continue in the Faith 3:10–17

The Charge to Preach the Word 4:1–5

The Final Testimony of Paul 4:6–8

Personal Remarks and Instructions 4:9–18

Final Greetings 4:19–22

Occasion for writing and message

Paul writes 2 Timothy from Prison. Probably while waiting on his final trial before his execution. Picture him: Cold, Alone, Old, Waiting to die. Wanted to pass on encouragement to Timothy, as well as warnings and Teachings.

He writes To Timothy, reminds him to be faithful in these hard times. Calls him to preach the word. Wants to see him before he dies. We don’t know if he made it.

Pastoral Advice to Timothy

Resist False Teachers

Flee Youthful Lusts and Quarreling

Develop Christian Virtues

Titus

Outline

Salutation 1:1–4

Qualifications for Elders 1:5–9

Silencing the False Teachers 1:10–16

Instructions for Various Groups 2:1–10

The Basis for the Instructions 2:11–15

Doing Good in Society 3:1–8

Further Instructions about False Teachers 3:9–11

Personal Instructions and Greetings 3:12–15

Occasion for Writing and Message

Shortest pastoral Epistle

Purpose is to Give Titus, Who is overseeing a number of other Pastors on the Island of Crete, practical direction until Paul’s aids arrive.

Paul wants Titus to come join him for the winter at Nicopolis, port city lying some 140 miles northwest of Corinth. Writes to remind him of the high standards required for elders or pastors. Handling those who oppose the Christian message. He will give instructions for all ages of Christians: Old men, Old women, Young women, Young men, Slaves.

Generals Epistles

General They do not appeal to a specific audience. Or the audience is Somewhat broad.

Catholic Epistles - Universal, For everyone, Not written just for a specific Group. Not referring to the Roman Catholic Church.

Eight Books

Hebrews

James

1 John

2 John

3 John

1 Peter

2 Peter

Jude

Hebrews

Author

Not clear who wrote Hebrews. Possible Authors: Paul, Timothy, Student of Paul, Luke, Barnabas, Apollos.

Pauline ideas but not same style of Writing. Different scribe. Someone who knew Paul.

To

probably to a Jewish Christian audience.

Title

To the Hebrews supports a Jewish decent. Author assumes a level of Knowledge of the Old Testament. Expects the readers to know it already.

Purpose

Written to warn his readers not to turn back to Judaism. Encourage them to stay true to faith in Jesus Christ. They turned to Christ and now they face persecution from other Jews. Hard to stay faithful.

Outline

The Superiority of the Christian Faith 1:1–10:18

Exhortations to Persevere in the Christian Faith 10:19–12:29

Concluding Exhortations 13:1–19

Benediction and Greetings 13:20–25

Two main aims of Hebrews

Remind readers of the incomparable greatness of Jesus Christ. Jesus is superior to: Prophets, Angels, Moses, Aaron. No one can compare to Christ

Readers need to reaffirm their courageous Christian faith. God is faithful to his promises. Believers can have confidence in troubled times.

Hebrews 11

Hebrews 11 CSB

1 Now faith is the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen. 2 For by this our ancestors were approved. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible. 4 By faith Abel offered to God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was approved as a righteous man, because God approved his gifts, and even though he is dead, he still speaks through his faith. 5 By faith Enoch was taken away, and so he did not experience death. He was not to be found because God took him away. For before he was taken away, he was approved as one who pleased God. 6 Now without faith it is impossible to please God, since the one who draws near to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. 7 By faith Noah, after he was warned about what was not yet seen and motivated by godly fear, built an ark to deliver his family. By faith he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. 8 By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed and set out for a place that he was going to receive as an inheritance. He went out, even though he did not know where he was going. 9 By faith he stayed as a foreigner in the land of promise, living in tents as did Isaac and Jacob, coheirs of the same promise. 10 For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. 11 By faith even Sarah herself, when she was unable to have children, received power to conceive offspring, even though she was past the age, since she considered that the one who had promised was faithful. 12 Therefore, from one man—in fact, from one as good as dead—came offspring as numerous as the stars of the sky and as innumerable as the grains of sand along the seashore. 13 These all died in faith, although they had not received the things that were promised. But they saw them from a distance, greeted them, and confessed that they were foreigners and temporary residents on the earth. 14 Now those who say such things make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. 15 If they were thinking about where they came from, they would have had an opportunity to return. 16 But they now desire a better place—a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. 17 By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac. He received the promises and yet he was offering his one and only son, 18 the one to whom it had been said, Your offspring will be traced through Isaac. 19 He considered God to be able even to raise someone from the dead; therefore, he received him back, figuratively speaking. 20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. 21 By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and he worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff. 22 By faith Joseph, as he was nearing the end of his life, mentioned the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions concerning his bones. 23 By faith Moses, after he was born, was hidden by his parents for three months, because they saw that the child was beautiful, and they didn’t fear the king’s edict. 24 By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter 25 and chose to suffer with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasure of sin. 26 For he considered reproach for the sake of Christ to be greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, since he was looking ahead to the reward. 27 By faith he left Egypt behind, not being afraid of the king’s anger, for Moses persevered as one who sees him who is invisible. 28 By faith he instituted the Passover and the sprinkling of the blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn might not touch the Israelites. 29 By faith they crossed the Red Sea as though they were on dry land. When the Egyptians attempted to do this, they were drowned. 30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after being marched around by the Israelites for seven days. 31 By faith Rahab the prostitute welcomed the spies in peace and didn’t perish with those who disobeyed. 32 And what more can I say? Time is too short for me to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets, 33 who by faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, 34 quenched the raging of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, gained strength in weakness, became mighty in battle, and put foreign armies to flight. 35 Women received their dead, raised to life again. Other people were tortured, not accepting release, so that they might gain a better resurrection. 36 Others experienced mockings and scourgings, as well as bonds and imprisonment. 37 They were stoned, they were sawed in two, they died by the sword, they wandered about in sheepskins, in goatskins, destitute, afflicted, and mistreated. 38 The world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and on mountains, hiding in caves and holes in the ground. 39 All these were approved through their faith, but they did not receive what was promised, 40 since God had provided something better for us, so that they would not be made perfect without us.

Faith Chapter, most famous of chapter sin Hebrews.

List over dozen figures as examples for Christians to follow from the Old Testament.

Abel

Enoch

Noah

Abraham

Isaac

Jacob

Joseph

Moses

Rahab

Gideon

Barak

Samson

Jephthah

David

Samuel

The Prophets

Numerous Unnamed Men and Women People of Israel

In this Jewish realm these people of a new Christian faith have to resist the urge and call from the others To revert Apostasy. Fall away from the faith.

Hebrews has been accused of being anti Old Testament. Not. It attacks a false conception of faith in God that was in the Old Testament. The Idea that God could be appeased by dutiful observance of religious rituals. Religion but not faith.

Something that will plague the Israelites. One of the false assumptions of the people before their going into exile in Babylon CA 587 BC.

James – Epistle of Straw

Epistle of Straw. Martin Luther. Viewed it as less than Romans, Galatians, Ephesians. His Mantra was Romans 1:17 - Just shall live by Faith.

Emphasizes Good works, almost to the point that is seems to contradict Paul’s statements of Faith.

James 2:24 CSB

24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.

However, when we look at James in its own context, not taking just sections, but the letter in its own context. James is speaking of a true Faith. True faith is a faith that produces work. It isn’t this idea of once saved always saved and live like hell, that isn’t true faith. True faith is saved and living. not because the works save but because you are saved. Goes hand in hand with Paul’s teaching. Sanctify because you are Justified. James just emphasizes the works. Paul does not.

Author

James, a servant of God. Most likely half brother of Jesus. Skeptic at first, Becomes the lead pastor of the Jerusalem Church. Called old Camel knees. Spent so much time in prayer that his knees became hard and callous.

Steadfast in his faith. Named in Galatians 2:9 by Paul on of the Three pillars of the Jewish Church. Refused to deny Jesus as Lord when Jewish authorities demanded that he publicly do so, AD 62 Put to Death.

Date

Late 30’s -60’s

Long enough for the Gospel to spread, Before he died.

Written To

Jewish community outside of Palestine. Jewish Letter. Written to people that have spread out through time

Outline

Address and Greeting 1:1

Trials and Temptations 1:2–18

Putting the Word into Practice 1:19–2:26

Worldliness in the Church 3:1–4:12

Looking at Life from a Christian Perspective 4:13–5:11

Concluding Exhortations 5:12–20

James focus on Works calls him to teach about the Right way to live

Trials that can be overcome. Through Christ Jesus because we have him.

Resist the Devil and he must flee.

Not because we are strong but because he is.

Evil comes from The Devil.

God can not tempt with Evil

James 1:13–15 CSB

13 No one undergoing a trial should say, “I am being tempted by God,” since God is not tempted by evil, and he himself doesn’t tempt anyone. 14 But each person is tempted when he is drawn away and enticed by his own evil desire. 15 Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and when sin is fully grown, it gives birth to death.

Worldliness: Letting the world influence our actions. Taming the Tongue. No man can tame the tongue.

James 3 CSB

1 Not many should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we will receive a stricter judgment. 2 For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is mature, able also to control the whole body. 3 Now if we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we direct their whole bodies. 4 And consider ships: Though very large and driven by fierce winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. 5 So too, though the tongue is a small part of the body, it boasts great things. Consider how a small fire sets ablaze a large forest. 6 And the tongue is a fire. The tongue, a world of unrighteousness, is placed among our members. It stains the whole body, sets the course of life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. 7 Every kind of animal, bird, reptile, and fish is tamed and has been tamed by humankind, 8 but no one can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in God’s likeness. 10 Blessing and cursing come out of the same mouth. My brothers and sisters, these things should not be this way. 11 Does a spring pour out sweet and bitter water from the same opening? 12 Can a fig tree produce olives, my brothers and sisters, or a grapevine produce figs? Neither can a saltwater spring yield fresh water. 13 Who among you is wise and understanding? By his good conduct he should show that his works are done in the gentleness that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t boast and deny the truth. 15 Such wisdom does not come down from above but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there is disorder and every evil practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, compliant, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without pretense. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who cultivate peace.

Not at war with each other, be at peace with those around you. Be not arrogant

Letters of Peter

Simon Peter - One of the Best known figures in the New Testament. Originally named Simon. Jesus Changed his name: Petros - Rock. The Rock the Church was built on. Tradition puts him in Rome by the End. Establishing the Roman Church. Crucified about the same time Paul Died.

1 Peter

Written in Babylon, probably not the ruins of the Mesopotamian city, but Probably Rome. Rome is compared to Babylon on several occasions during in this time. If Peter wrote it, it was written during Nero’s Persecution of Christians. Written AD 64-66

Outline

Suffering as a Christian 1:1–2:10

At Home, But Not in This World 2:11–3:13

Suffering—The Road to Glory 3:13–4:19

Final Exhortations and Greetings 5:1–14

Persecution

Peter lived during a time of immense suffering and persecution for Christians. The end was near and Still is. His end was near, only a matter of time it seems. He is facing death and so are many of those around him, including the people he is writing to.

Suffering is a part of the calling. We have been called to suffer. Why because we are not of this world.

Salvation

another major theme. Life is short. Keep your eye on the life that comes after. hope for the future. words of encouragement in a suffering world, hope brings Joy. Rejoice in your suffering.

Believer as a pilgrim

We as Christians are like pilgrims in this world, strangers on the way home. Need to act accordingly.

Following Christ, Because we are Christians. Goal is to live as Christ would. Embody Christ.

2 Peter

Date

No later than 68 Probably in Rome

Outline

Salutation 1:1–2

Concern for Sanctification 1:3–11

Confidence in the Scripture 1:12–21

Caution toward False Teachers 2:1–22

Constancy in Light of the Last Days 3:1–16

Conclusion 3:17–18

Message

Sanctification, Begins and ends his letter by encoring in them to Grow in the Christian walk, Grow up -Healthy things grow

Walk the Walk

List virtues that encourage growth

Faith

Goodness

Knowledge

Self-control

Perseverance

godliness

brotherly kindness

Love

Scripture

People began to doubt the scriptures and the prophets. Peter attempts to assure them of what the lord Promises. They will come true.

False Teachers

Peter warns of False Teachers. They will be Destructive, Shameful, Greedy, Arrogant, Blasphemous, boastful, sinful. They will turn their backs on God’s commandments. They will arise so be ready and wary

End of the Age

Why hasn’t the end happened yet. Difference in time, God’s patience. Wishes all to be saved. t will be a fiery destruction, cleansing. replaced with a new heaven and new earth, home of righteousness not sin.

Jude

Author

Three men named Jude (Judas) in the New Testament other than the Betrayer

Jude son of James - one of the original 13 disciples

Judas - called Barsabbas. Went with Paul Barnabas and Silas to Antioch after the Council of Jerusalem.

Jude - Listed along with James (Jacob) Joseph and Simon as a Brother of Jesus.

For me the Brother of Jesus makes most since. Didn’t accept Jesus during his ministry. Convince during resurrection. Not accepted widely.

Place and Date

Palestine

AD 60 – 80

Outline

Salutation 1-2

Reason for Writing 3-4

God’s Judgment in the Past 5-7

Warning against False Teachers 8-16

A Call To Persevere 17-23

Doxology 24-25

Message

I write to appeal to you to contend for the faith, to assert, Take the Gospel onward.,

Warns the readers of the godless evil doers of the day. Calls them to preserve in time of troubles and in the face of these False teachers.

Jude 9-10 “9 But Michael the archangel, when he argued with the devil, disputing concerning the body of Moses, did not dare to pronounce a blasphemous judgment, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” 10 But these persons blaspheme all that they do not understand, and all that they understand by instinct like the irrational animals, by these things they are being destroyed.”

Points to the Assumption of Moses a book found in the Apocrypha

Michael contends with Devil for the body of Moses. Good example of Info Judas expected his readers to know, things we don’t. This was accepted reading then.

Epistles of John

Three letters

Different from his Gospel. These are letters and tracts, not a telling of the Good news.

John the beloved Disciple, one whom Jesus loved.

1 John

Outline

The Incarnation Makes Fellowship Possible 1:1–4

Fellowship with God Is Based on Truth and Love 1:5–5:17

Fellowship Comprises Three Certainties 5:18–21

Purpose and Teaching

Why write

So that their Joy many be full in the Knowledge that Jesus is the Son of God in flesh

So that they will not sin

if we do sin must confess and be cleansed

to restore fellowship

To remind them to Love one another

found throughout the Old Testament

Embodied by Jesus Christ

Warn them about those who would lead them astray

Assure them of their victory in Christ

Readers would be assured of their salvation

2 John

Shortest writing in the New Testament

Outline

The Elder Greets the Elect Lady and Her Children vv. 1–3

Abiding in the Truth Is the Basis for Walking in Love vv. 4–11

The Truth Is the Basis of Christian Fellowship vv. 12–13

Purpose and Teaching

To a Chosen lady and her Children

Literal - Woman allowed a church to meet in her house

Allegorical -Personification of a particular church, Children are the believers.

Message is similar to 1 John

Walk in Love

Don’t listen to the false teachers

Reject those who reject Christ

Base your meeting together on Truth

Gather with people normally wouldn’t

Brought together by truth

Focus on the Truth

Ends by saying that he is out of paper and will elaborate more when he visits in person

3 John

Outline

The Elder Addresses Gaius in Love v. 1

Love Must Prevail in the Circle of the Truth vv. 2–12

Peace Should Prevail among Friends vv. 13–14

Written To:

Gaius

A convert of John

Commended for being faithful to and walk in the Truth

Shows hospitality

Diotrephes

Not willing to help other Christina workers

Gossiper

Rejects john’s advice

expels from the church those who seek to help those laboring to further the true gospel

Doesn’t want competition

Demetrius

Well spoken of by everyone

Embodiment of good and not a troublemaker

Ends by saying he would rather meet in person

Revelation

Why do we not read this book? Why do we Read it?

Skip to the end - Source of hope. Read the pages and skip to the end.

afraid

Don’t understand

Basic guidelines for reading

Book consist of a long and complicated series of visions. over 60 of them. Visionary account of reality that were given by God to portray profound spiritual and theological truths. Many of these images taken from Old Testament, 350 allusion or references.

Apocalyptic literature - To Reveal hidden things. Revelation from God, To Angel, To Prophet, TO Servants.

Christian Theology is woven throughout the book

Apocalyptic Literature

Revelation

from God,

To Angel,

To Prophet,

To Servants.

Dualism

Persian influences

Good vs. Evil

Light Vs Darkness

Predestination

God is over all

God brings peace and justice to earth

Exclusivism

Either a follower of the Lamb or the Beast

Violence and Suffering

Last days are treacherous times

Evil will be repaid with violence

Eschatology

This will take place at the End of the Age

Periodization

History is Divided into periods

Use of Symbols and Codes

Language of the in-Group

Pseudonymous

Use of false names

Rev differs in that it doesn’t

Author and Date

Image taken from Nelson Bible Charts

John on the Island of Patmos, small island off the coast of Asia Minor in the Aegean Sea. Barren rocky place. Exiled there to Die.

Same John that wrote the Letters and the Gospel? Traditionally, yes

No one said that this life was going to be easy.

Dated sometimes towards the end of Domitian’s Reign - 81-96

Revelation: Four Views Part I: The Seven Letters (Revelation 1–3)

What Is the Significance of Christ’s Commission to John? What Do the Seven Churches Signify?

Historicist Approach:

• John is given a vision of Christ, who announces that he is to write of things that would soon begin to take place, and which would extend through the entire age of the church.

• Seven churches in Asia received these letters, but they represent seven periods of church history, each exhibiting the special features of the respective original church.

Preterist Approach:

• Christ appears to John on Patmos, commissioning him to write things that would soon afterward find fulfillment in the fall of Jerusalem.

• The letters reflect the conditions prevailing in seven churches in the Roman province of Asia prior to the Jewish war of A.D. 66–70.

Futurist Approach:

• While a prisoner on the isle of Patmos, John sees a vision of Christ, commanding him to write of events that would be fulfilled at the end of the present age, just prior to the Second Coming.

• Some futurists take the letters in the same manner as do the historicists, while others take them more as do the preterists or those taking the spiritual approach.

Spiritual Approach:

• The symbolic vision of Christ depicts His glorious character and sovereignty, conveying Christ’s sovereign involvement in the affairs of the world and of the church, including his intimate concern for His suffering servants.

• The churches resemble churches that might exist at any time throughout the church age, and the letters are applicable to any churches that may share their conditions. The number seven is symbolic, suggesting application to the whole Christian church of all ages.

Outline

Introductory Vision and Letters to Seven Asian Churches Ch 1–3

Unfolding of History up to the Return of Christ Chapters 4–19

Millennial Reign of Christ Chapters 20–22

Seven Churches

Church at Ephesus

You have left your first love

Church at Smyrna

Be Faithful until death and I will give you the crown of life

Church at Pergamum

I have a few things against you

Keeps faith

Tolerates immorality, idolatry and Heresies

Church at Thyatira

Hold fast what you have till I come

Love service, faith patience

Tolerates cult of idolatry and immorality

Church at Sardis

You have a name that you are alive but your are dead

Dead church

Church at Philadelphia

I have set before you and open door

Perseveres in the faith

Church at Laodicea

You are neither cold nor hot

Indifferent

Four Different views

Historic Premillennial Theory

Book relates to the life of the Church

Resurrection

Followed by a millennium

Final Judgment

Amillennial Theory

Revelation is not to be considered an ordered presentation of factual events but symbolic depiction of the ongoing battle between God and Satan

Rejects the idea of a literal thousand year reign of Christ after his return at the end of the age

Book describes the historical course of the persecuted church that will end with Christ’s second coming

General Resurrection

Both lost and Believers

Then the last judgment

New heaven and earth home of Believers

Lost taken to Pit of fire

Dispensational Premillennial Theory

Resurrection comes before the Tribulation

view interprets the events beginning with Chapter 4 to be a marvelous prophecy of what is to come in the future age

Christ ushers in the millennium

Difference between older Premillennial

Dispensation

Visions describe the ages until the end of the age

Postmillennial

Resurrection doesn’t come until after the tribulation