A Major Milestone
May 25, 2011 at 9:13 am | Posted in Discipleship Lessons, Uncategorized | 15 CommentsTags: Basic Christianity, Christian doctrine, discipleship, discipleship lessons, discipleship training, Jesus Christ, Luke 5, Matthew 4, the deep end
Yesterday “The Deep End” surpassed a major milestone for number of views all time. Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to drop by and read a post here and there, and especially to everyone who has checked in regularly and faithfully. In honor of the occasion, I’m going to re-post a popular series of lessons.
These discipleship lessons are intended for Christian believers: those who have been saved by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ His Son. They contain the bare basics for understanding some of the major doctrines of the Christian faith. They are not intended as a substitute for going through God’s Word, precept by precept, in diligent and prayerful study. These lessons will help you grasp enough of Christianity to be able to converse intelligently on the topics outlined, but it should be every Christian’s goal to spend his or her lifetime learning more and more about the Lord of the Bible.
While these lessons are really designed for believers, my prayer is that you will still share them with your lost friends, family members, co-workers, and acquaintances. When the Lord Jesus recruited disciples, He did so with this command: “Follow me…” (Matthew 4:19; Luke 5:27) In this command we have both a path (follow), and a Person (Me). If you are to walk the path of eternal life, you must go the way of Jesus Christ. He is infinitely worthy to be studied, worshiped, adored, emulated, obeyed, and followed.
Lesson 1: Salvation
Lesson 2: Everlasting Security
Lesson 3: Baptism
Lesson 4: The Bible
Lesson 5: Prayer
Lesson 6: The Local Church
Lesson 7: Sin
Lesson 8: The World
Lesson 9: The Holy Spirit
Discipleship Lesson 9: The Holy Spirit
May 3, 2011 at 2:29 pm | Posted in Discipleship Lessons, John | 46 CommentsTags: 1 Corinthians 2, 1 Corinthians 6, 1 John 4, Ephesians 1, Ephesians 2, Ephesians 3, Ephesians 4, Ephesians 5, Galatians 4, Galatians 5, Genesis 1, Isaiah 1, Job 33, John 14, John 16, John 3, Revelation 12, Romans 8, Zechariah 4
I. Where is the Holy Spirit?
He dwells in the temple of your body if you are a Christian, having taken up permanent residence at the moment of salvation.
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
John 14:16-17
Only Christians are indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.
I Corinthians 6:19-20
To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.
Galatians 4:5-6
Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Ephesians 2:19-22
II. How does the Holy Spirit work?
A. He “reproves.”
Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
John 16:7-8
He reproves of sin, righteousness, and judgment. “Reprove” is a better description of what He does than “convict” or “convince,” although the meanings of both of those words are included in it. “Reprove” (as in “a reproving look”) contains the idea of both anger and sadness (grief), and the idea of the bringing to light of guilt or shame. The Greek Word is elegcho (from the same root word as “elegy,” which is a song or poem of lament). To “reprove of sin” means to show that something is wrong, to show that it is to be rejected, and to show that it is to be condemned.
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Isaiah 1:18
That’s a good Scriptural example of “reproof” – which includes convincing and convicting.
And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.
Revelation 12:10
The devil accuses with an eye toward condemnation, but he is not the only one who makes Christians feel bad about sin. The difference is that his condemnation drives you away from God. God’s reproof brings you back to God – and He does this reproving in the Person of the Holy Spirit.
B. He is involved in creation.
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
Genesis 1:1-2
The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.
Job 33:4
C. He is active in regeneration.
Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
John 3:5
D. He seals Christians as children of God.
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
Ephesians 4:30
I know I am going to Heaven because of my new-birth experience, and because of the Scriptures, but also because God’s Spirit dwells in me permanently. One day He is going to Heaven to be with God forever. Therefore, I must go with Him.
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
Ephesians 1:13-14
E. He bears witness of the salvation of Christians.
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
Romans 8:16
Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
I John 4:13
F. He teaches the Bible to Christians.
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 14:26
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
John 16:13-14
G. He intercedes for Christians in prayer.
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Romans 8:26-27
Neither saints who have died and gone to Heaven (including Jesus’s mother, Mary), nor angels intercede for us in prayer.
For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
Ephesians 2:18
H. He is our Comforter in times of need.
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.
John 14:16-18
The Greek word for “Comforter” in this verse is Parakletos. It means “a helper who comes alongside and an advocate who stands beside you and speaks on your behalf.”
I. He empowers Christians to serve God.
That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;
Ephesians 3:16
Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.
J. He gives Christians discernment in decision-making.
But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
I Corinthians 2:14
In one sense, the Holy Spirit acts as an antenna or receiver: He helps Christians stay attuned to the Truth of God and filter out the false.
III. What does the Holy Spirit do?
He produces spiritual fruit to the glory of God.
The Christian’s job is to bear fruit. The Holy Spirit’s job is to produce fruit. God has graciously given us responsibility, but He keeps ultimate control. Spiritual fruit has seeds within it. It brings joy when shared. It brings glory to the Gardener.
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
John 16:13-14
The Holy Spirit’s job is not to glorify the Holy Spirit. His job is to glorify God in what God has said, and to glorify the Person of Jesus Christ. Therefore, our job primarily is not to glorify the Holy Spirit in worship, but to glorify God and magnify Jesus Christ.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Galatians 5:22-25
Spiritual fruit is “singular.” These character qualities are part of the same process and fruit.
IV. Questions
A. What are the nine character qualities which are called the fruit of the Spirit?
The first three are “inward:”
1. Love: We must love God in order to truly love others.
2. Joy: Our joy must be in Christ or else the best we can hope for is only a circumstances-dependent temporary happiness.
3. Peace: We can’t have peace with others without peace in our own souls – and we can’t have either one of those without first being at peace with God.
The next three are “outward:”
1. Longsuffering: This involves bearing patiently the issues of dealing with others.
2. Gentleness: This involves dealing with those issues tenderly.
3. Goodness: This involves choosing to deal with others the right, instead of the wrong, way.
The last three are “upward” (toward God):
1. Faith: This involves believing that God is Who He says He is, and that He will do what He has said He will do.
2. Meekness: This involves understanding that God is everything, and I am nothing apart from Him.
3. Temperance: This involves being yielded in our attitudes – being even-keeled (being a thermostat, not a thermometer).
B. Can a person be a Christian without the Holy Spirit?
No.
There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism,
Ephesians 4:4-5
C. What is more important for a Christian:
1. You getting more of the Holy Spirit?
2. The Holy Spirit getting more of you?
Answer: 2
And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
Ephesians 5:18
Being filled with the Spirit is not a matter of finding where the Spirit is and hoping to be filled with Him. It is a matter of emptying out of self, vanity, and worldly, fleshly junk – so that He fills every room of your heart.
V. Memory Verses
A.
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.
I Corinthians 6:19-20
B.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23
C.
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Galatians 5:16
Discipleship Lesson 8: The World
April 6, 2011 at 12:03 pm | Posted in Discipleship Lessons | 67 CommentsTags: 1 Corinthians 8, 1 John 2, 1 John 5, 1 Peter 2, 1 Timothy 3, 2 Corinthians 6, 2 Corinthians 8, 2 Timothy 3, Colossians 3, Colossians 4, discipleship, discipleship lessons, Ephesians 2, friendship with the world, Galatians 4, Hebrews 11, James 1, James 4, Jesus Christ, John 15, Matthew 10, Matthew 28, Matthew 5, Philippians 3, pilgrims, Proverbs 13, Proverbs 15, Proverbs 16, Romans 12, separation, world, worldliness
I. Why does the world oppose Christians?
A. The world opposes Christians because the world opposed Christ.
If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
John 15:18-19
B. The world opposes Christians because Christians are supposed to live for Christ.
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
II Timothy 3:12
C. The world opposes Christians because there are two spiritual families that are at war with each other.
But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.
Galatians 4:29
D. The world opposes Christians because the world’s system is opposed to Christ.
Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
James 4:4
II. How does the world oppose Christians?
A. By using those closest to Christians.
For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household.
Matthew 10:35-36
B. By cooperating with Satan in using unredeemed sinners against Christians.
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
Ephesians 2:2
III. How can a Christian get the victory over the world?
A. By showing love, kindness, meekness, and gentleness to others.
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Proverbs 15:1
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
Romans 12:18
B. By pleasing the Lord.
When a man’s ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Proverbs 16:7
C. By faith in God.
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?
I John 5:4-5
D. By returning good for evil.
Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:21
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Matthew 5:44
E. By choosing our friends wisely.
He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
Proverbs 13:20
F. By renewing our minds every day in the Word of God.
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Romans 12:1-2
IV. How should the world view Christians?
A. As sincere, by our actions even more than our words.
But if any man love God, the same is known of him.
I Corinthians 8:3
B. As set apart and different.
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
II Corinthians 6:14-18
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
I Peter 2:9
B. As open and honest.
Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Romans 12:17
Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
II Corinthians 8:21
C. As people who love unbelievers, but know what we ourselves believe.
Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
Colossians 4:6
Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
I Timothy 3:7
V. How should Christians view the world?
A. The way a pilgrim views a strange land.
Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
I Peter 2:11
These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
Hebrews 11:13
B. From the viewpoint of a citizen of Heaven.
For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
Philippians 3:20
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
Ephesians 2:6
C. As a mission field.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Matthew 28:19-20
VI. Questions
A. What three institutions has God ordained for man in this world?
The family, the government, the church.
B. Where is a Christian’s home?
In Heaven.
C. What is the principle of “separation” for a Christian?
To be in the world, but not of the world. Not to touch the unclean thing.
VII. Memory Verses
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
II Timothy 3:12
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
I John 2:15-16
But if any man love God, the same is known of him.
I Corinthians 8:3
Discipleship Lesson 7: Sin
March 11, 2011 at 10:11 am | Posted in Discipleship Lessons | 26 CommentsTags: 1 Corinthians 10, 1 Corinthians 11, 1 Corinthians 15, 1 John 1, 1 John 2, 1 John 3, 1 John 5, 2 Corinthians 10, 2 Corinthians 5, 2 Corinthians 7, Biblical discipleship, Colossians 3, definition of sin, discipleship, discipleship lessons, Galatians 5, Galatians 6, God's Law, Hebrews 12, Hebrews 4, James 1, Jesus Christ, Proverbs 28, Psalm 119, Psalm 139, Romans 13, Romans 14, Romans 5, Romans 6, Romans 7, Romans 8, sin
If you are a Christian, when you were born again (regenerated by the Holy Spirit), you became a new “man,” (or new woman if you are female). But the old man did not disappear. The old man – in the image of Adam – has a sinful nature. The new man – in Christ Jesus – has God’s nature. These two men are at war with each other. It is an intense struggle.
I. What is sin?
A. Sin is breaking God’s law.
Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.
I John 3:4
B. Sin is any unrighteousness.
All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.
I John 5:17
C. Sin is anything done apart from faith.
And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
Romans 14:23
II. What causes sin?
A. My inherited sinful nature causes me to sin.
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:
Romans 5:12
And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.
I Corinthians 15:45-49
B. My old nature draws me into sin.
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
James 1:14-15
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Romans 7:14-25
C. We are tempted in three major areas: we like to feel good; we like to look at that which is pleasing to the eyes; we like to feel important in the eyes of others.
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
I John 2:16
III. How does God deal with sin in the life of a Christian?
A. God judged at our sin at Calvary.
For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
II Corinthians 5:21
B. God chastens His children when they continue in sin.
For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
Hebrews 12:6
C. God allows us to reap what we have sown.
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
Galatians 6:7-8
IV. How can a Christian get the victory over sin?
A. By accepting responsibility for his own sin.
He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.
Proverbs 28:13
B. By refusing to allow sinful thoughts to control his mind.
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
II Corinthians 10:5
C. By not giving the flesh an opportunity to achieve its desires.
But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
Romans 13:14
D. By remembering that he is dead to sin in Jesus Christ.
Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 6:11
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
Colossians 3:1-10
D. By agreeing with God about his sin (judging it).
But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another.
I Corinthians 11:31-32
E. By confessing his sins to God.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
I John 1:9
F. By recognizing that God has made a way to escape from every temptation.
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
I Corinthians 10:13
G. By remembering God’s Word.
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
Psalm 119:11
H. By trusting God’s promises and praying.
For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 4:15-16
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
II Corinthians 7:1
I. By walking in the Holy Spirit.
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
Galatians 5:16
J. By being led by, and following after, the Holy Spirit.
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
Romans 8:1
K. By submitting himself to regular examinations by the Holy Ghost.
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Psalm 139:23-24
V. Memory Verses
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
Psalm 119:11
For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
Hebrews 4:15
Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 6:11
Discipleship Lesson 6: The Local Church
February 7, 2011 at 10:18 am | Posted in Discipleship Lessons, I Corinthians | 86 CommentsTags: 1 Corinthians 12, 1 Corinthians 6, 2 Timothy 2, Acts 13, Acts 14, Acts 17, Acts 2, Acts 6, Biblical discipleship, Body of Christ, Christian church, church, church membership, discipleship, discipleship lessons, Ephesians 2, Ephesians 4, fellowship, James 1, John 4, local church, Matthew 7, Titus 1
God has established three main institutions here on earth: the family; the government; and the local church. The local church acts as Christ’s body in carrying out God’s purposes in reaching the lost and helping to perfect the saved.
I. What is the local church?
And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.
Acts 14:27
The local church is not a building.
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
John 4:24
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
I Corinthians 6:19
There is “The Church,” which is the Bride and Body of Christ, and which consists of all the born-again Christians from all times and from all over the world. And then there is “the local church.” Local churches are made up of people who meet together regularly to worship and serve the Lord in a specific place.
For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body.
I Corinthians 12:14-20
Each part of your body has at least one specific function. Each member of the local church should have at least one specific function. Not all members have the same function.
And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
I Corinthians 12:21
No part of your body can function alone. In the local church, members aren’t meant to function alone.
Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
I Corinthians 12:22-23
Each member’s contribution is important.
For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
I Corinthians 12:24-28
A properly functioning body operates as a single unit. A local church should operate in harmony and unity.
II. What are the responsibilities of the local church?
The first local church was organized in Jerusalem.
And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Acts 2:42
The local church’s responsibilities include: the teaching of the Word of God; fellowship with other believers; prayer.
Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Acts 2:41
The local church should observe the two ordinances of the Church: baptism and the Lord’s Supper.
And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
Acts 2:43
The local church should be a testimony of God’s grace and power.
And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
Acts 2:44-45
The local church should be involved in mutual assistance and ministry.
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Acts 2:46-47
The local church should reach out into the community and glorify and praise God.
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Ephesians 4:11-16
According to the Scriptures the number one priority of the local church seems to be to build up, teach, and strengthen believers.
III. Why is it important for you to be involved in a local church?
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Ephesians 4:11-12
There are three basic growth stages in the life of a believer: (1) observe and learn; (2) participate; (3) lead by serving.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
II Timothy 2:2
As a believer who belongs to a local church, first you learn, and then you teach what you have learned.
IV. Questions
A. How should you decide with which local church to become involved?
Pray about it.
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
James 1:5
B. What are some qualities you should look for in a local church?
1. Evidence of evangelism
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
Matthew 7:20
2. A belief that the Bible is the Word of God and that it is absolutely true.
Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
Titus 1:9
Members should be encouraged to read the Bible as much as leaders.
These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
Acts 17:11
3. Ministry to needs
And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.
Acts 6:1
4. Support of missionaries
And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
Acts 13:3
C. What are two of the main purposes of the local church?
Reaching the lost and helping to perfect the saved.
V. Memory verses
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
Ephesians 4:11-12
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
I Corinthians 12:27
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
II Timothy 2:2
Discipleship Lesson 5: Prayer
January 14, 2011 at 12:23 pm | Posted in Biblical prayer, Discipleship Lessons | 60 CommentsTags: 1 Peter 3, 1 Thessalonians 5, 1 Timothy 2, discipleship, discipleship lessons, Ephesians 2, Ephesians 6, intercessory prayer, James 4, Luke 11, Matthew 6, Philippians 4, prayer, prayer lesson, Proverbs 28, Psalm 100, Psalm 50, Psalm 66, Revelation 3, Romans 8
I. Why should we pray?
We should pray in order to be conformed to God’s will, more than to attempt to change God’s mind. Prayer is also good for our peace of mind and heart.
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
God allows needs to come into our lives so that we will draw close to Him and learn to depend on Him.
Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
Matthew 6:8
Pray without ceasing.
I Thessalonians 5:17
It is dangerous for us to believe that all our needs are met and that we are not dependent.
So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
Revelation 3:16-17
We must give thanks for our needs and even for our times of difficulty.
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
I Thessalonians 5:18
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
Psalm 100:4
Prayer should be our first reaction in times of trouble.
And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.
Psalm 50:15
II. How should we pray?
A. We should pray in the Holy Spirit.
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Romans 8:26-27
B. We should pray constantly.
Pray without ceasing.
I Thessalonians 5:17
C. Public prayer is good, but most of our prayer time should be in private.
And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
Matthew 6:5-7
D. We should pray in the name of Jesus Christ.
For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
I Timothy 2:5
For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
Ephesians 2:18
E. We should pray with our sins confessed.
If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:
Psalm 66:18
F. We should pray with a forgiving heart.
For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Matthew 6:14-15
G. Husbands should pray without bitterness toward our wives.
Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.
Colossians 3:19
Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
I Peter 3:7
H. We should ask God to fulfill specific requests when we pray.
Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
James 4:2-3
I. We should pray consistently with what is revealed in God’s Word.
He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.
Proverbs 28:9
III. What should we pray?
A. Be specific.
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Philippians 4:6
B. Give thanks.
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
I Thessalonians 5:18
C. Pray for others.
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
Ephesians 6:18
D. Praise and worship the Lord.
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
Psalm 100:4
E. Pray for the lost.
Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
Matthew 9:38
F. Pray for God’s will to be done – pray the way Jesus told us to pray.
And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
Luke 11:2
IV. Questions
A. Should we pray to the saints in Heaven or to angels? (No.)
B. Does praying for the same thing over and over show a lack of faith? (No.)
C. Should certain prayers be memorized and repeated word for word without feeling or as a substitute for personalized prayer? (No.)
V. Memory verses
For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
I Timothy 2:5
If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:
Psalm 66:18
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
I Thessalonians 5:18
Discipleship Lesson 4: The Bible
December 20, 2010 at 3:39 pm | Posted in Discipleship Lessons | 121 CommentsTags: 1 Corinthians 15, 1 Corinthians 2, 1 Corinthians 3, 1 Peter 1, 1 Peter 2, 2 Peter 1, 2 Timothy 3, Biblical discipleship, discipleship, discipleship lessons, Ephesians 2, Ephesians 5, Ephesians 6, Genesis 1, Hebrews 11, Hebrews 5, Isaiah 55, James 1, Jeremiah 15, Job 23, John 1, John 14, John 15, John 16, Luke 4, Proverbs 16, Proverbs 25, Proverbs 3, Proverbs 7, Psalm 119, Psalm 12, Psalm 138, Psalm 33, Romans 10, The Bible, Word of God
We have the revealed WORD OF GOD. Therefore, as Christians, we must let its principles guide our lives.
I. What does the Bible do for a lost person?
It is active in his salvation.
Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
I Peter 1:23
The Word of God is active in bringing about the new birth.
For by grace are ye saved through faith…
Ephesians 2:8
So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Romans 10:17
Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
James 1:21
There is an emphasis on the Word of God in the Gospel:
Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
I Corinthians 15:1-4, emphasis added
Believing what the Bible says about the Gospel is necessary for salvation.
II. What does the Bible do for a saved person?
A. It is the Owner’s manual. If we don’t follow the Owner’s and the Manufacturer’s plans, we won’t “work” – we won’t be successful Christians.
NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
Psalm 119:105
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
B. It equips us for service.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
II Timothy 3:16-17
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Ephesians 6:17
C. It sustains us.
Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.
Job 23:12
Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.
Jeremiah 15:16
As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
I Peter 2:2
How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Psalm 119:103
Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
Proverbs 16:24
Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.
Proverbs 7:2
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Proverbs 25:11
And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.
Luke 4:4
For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
Isaiah 55:10-11
For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
Hebrews 5:12-14
I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.
I Corinthians 3:2
D. It cleans us.
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
Ephesians 5:26
BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
Psalm 119:9-11
Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
John 15:3
E. It makes us pleasing to God.
Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.
Psalm 119:165
III. Is the Bible ever wrong?
No, it is a “more sure word,” even than the audible voice of God.
For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
II Peter 1:16-21
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:1
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
Hebrews 11:3
I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.
Psalm 138:2
The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.
Psalm 12:6-7
By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.
Psalm 33:6
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.
Genesis 1:3
IV. What is the best way to study the Bible?
Compare Scripture with Scripture – not our own intellect or experiences.
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 14:26
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.
John 16:13-15
But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
I Corinthians 2:9-16
V. Questions
A. Was the Bible created by men or by God?
It was created by God. It contains 66 books, 39 in the Old Testament, and 27 in the New Testament. God used over 40 human instruments in writing it, but it fits together perfectly because the Holy Spirit is the real Author. It was written over a time span of 2000 years. It is totally accurate in history, prophecy, and life application. It contains no contradictions.
B. Is the Bible too hard for a Christian to understand?
No, it is not. However, there are difficult passages, and one of the key things for a Christian to remember is to live what you do understand, and God will reveal to you in His time what you do not yet understand.
C. Is there any value in memorizing Scriptures?
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
Psalm 119:11
VI. Memory Verses
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
II Peter 1:21
BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.
Psalm 119:9
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
II Timothy 3:16
Discipleship Lesson 3: Baptism
November 17, 2010 at 1:48 pm | Posted in Discipleship Lessons | 21 CommentsTags: Acts 16, Acts 18, Acts 2, Acts 8, Acts 9, Ephesians 2, Ethiopian eunuch, Luke 3, Mark 1, Matthew 28, Matthew 3, Philip, Romans 10, Romans 6
I. Why does God want me to be baptized after I am saved?
It is the first act of service in obedience to the Lord. Anyone can be baptized – it takes no special talents or effort.
Jesus set the example by submitting to baptism before He began His public ministry.
Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Matthew 3:13-17, emphasis added
And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Mark 1:9-11, emphasis added
Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.
Luke 3:21-22, emphasis added
Jesus was baptized in obedience to God’s plan. The single most important thing about baptism sounds like two things, but it is really two-things-in-one: submission and obedience.
And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.
Acts 9:18
And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
Acts 8:36-39
And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed. And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here. Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.
Acts 16:25-33
These are all examples in the Book of Acts of people who were baptized after being saved.
II. What is my being baptized supposed to show to others?
Physical baptism is a picture of spiritual truth.
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin.
Romans 6:1-7
Baptism pictures the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. It is also a public testimony of identification with Christ.
III. What is the requirement for being baptized?
And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
Acts 8:36-37
That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Romans 10:9-10
Baptism does not save anyone. The requirement for being baptized is the requirement of first being saved. The requirement for being baptized is believing in your heart that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior, and confession that He is Lord and Savior. In the Bible Christians are baptized after being saved.
But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
Acts 8:12
And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.
Acts 18:8
IV. What is Biblical baptism?
And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
Acts 8:38-39
Both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water. So did Jesus.
And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
Matthew 3:16
Baptism is a picture of death, burial, and resurrection. No one is buried by having dirt sprinkled on them.
Baptism does not save (Ephesians 2:8-9), but it is essential for service and spiritual growth.
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Matthew 28:19-20
Baptism is right up there with teaching, maybe before, in importance.
V. Questions
A. Why should babies not be baptized?
They are not saved.
B. Why is sprinkling with water not Biblical baptism?
It’s not a picture of death, burial, and resurrection.
C. Where should the baptism take place?
In public (in front of witnesses), as part of a Christian church service.
VI. Memory Verses
Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Romans 6:3-4
And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
Matthew 3:16
And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
Acts 8:36
Next time: Discipleship Lesson Four – The Bible
Discipleship Lesson 2: Everlasting Security
October 29, 2010 at 9:25 am | Posted in Discipleship Lessons, Eternity, John | 26 CommentsTags: 1 John 2, 1 John 3, 1 John 5, 2 Timothy 1, Ephesians 1, Ephesians 2, Ephesians 4, Galatians 2, Galatians 3, Hebrews 6, James 2, John 1, John 10, John 6, Numbers 23, once saved always saved, Romans 8, Titus 1
I. Will God or someone else take away the salvation He has given me?
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
John 1:12-13
We must never base our beliefs on this subject on our experience or the experience of another person. We must let the Bible speak for itself. Consider the testimony of Jesus Himself:
All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
John 6:37 (Emphasis added.)
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.
John 10:27-29 (Emphasis added.)
II. Can I lose it on my own?
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9
If we had to do anything to keep it, we would lose it easily.
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
Galatians 3:10
For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
James 2:10
But we do not “keep” the salvation that God gives us. Christ keeps it.
For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.
II Timothy 1:12 (Emphasis added.)
If we could get it – or keep it – ourselves, then Christ died in vain.
I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
Galatians 2:21
III. Can some other power or condition take away from me the salvation given by the Lord?
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-39
According to John 1:12-13, when God saved you, He became your Father, and you became His child. Your biological father can never not be your biological father. Likewise, once you are made a child of God, your Heavenly Father can never not be your Father.
There is almost always a record made of physical birth, but there is always a record made of Spiritual birth.
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
I John 5:11-13 (Emphasis added.)
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Ephesians 1:13 (Emphasis added.)
And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
Ephesians 4:30 (Emphasis added.)
Ephesians 4:30 would have been a perfect place to say that if you grieve the Holy Spirit, He will leave you, but instead it says right there that He seals you unto the day of redemption.
We are not saved by feelings, and feelings do not affect the objective truth of the Word of God.
For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.
I John 3:20
In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
Titus 1:2
And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.
I John 2:25
IV. Questions
A. Does I John 5:13 teach us that God wants us to be secure or insecure about salvation? Secure.
B. Does I John 3:20 teach that we can trust our own hearts and feelings about whether we are saved? No.
C. Find three Bible Verses that promise that God cannot lie.
In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
Titus 1:2
That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
Hebrews 6:18
God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Numbers 23:19
V. Memory Verses
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9
And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.
I John 2:25
These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.
I John 5:13
Next time: Discipleship Lesson Three – Baptism
Discipleship Lesson 1: Salvation
October 15, 2010 at 10:38 am | Posted in Discipleship Lessons, John, Salvation | 52 CommentsTags: 1 Corinthians 15, 1 Corinthians 6, 1 John 1, 1 John 2, 1 John 5, 1 Peter 5, 2 Corinthians 4, 2 Corinthians 5, 2 Corinthians 6, Colossians 3, discipleship lessons, discipleship training, family of God, Genesis 5, Hebrews 12, Jesus Christ, John 1, John 14, John 3, John 6, John 8, love of God, Matthew 6, Matthew 7, Philippians 4, Proverbs 28, Psalm 46, Romans 5, Romans 6, Romans 7, Salvation
Discipleship Lesson 1 is on salvation.
SALVATION
I. The two spiritual families
A. The devil’s family
The way to get into the devil’s family is simply by being physically born. Every human being comes into the world as a member of the devil’s family, since we have been conceived in sin and born in corruption. Not everyone likes to use the terminology of being a “child of the devil.” I am not implying that the devil creates human beings. He is a created being himself and lacks the power to create a living soul. It is also correct to say that we are born into this world as sons of Adam, and to say that we are born as children of wrath and children of disobedience. But all unsaved people are slaves to sin, and therefore slaves to Satan.
In one sense, the “children of the devil” are those who believe they are religious, but base their attempts at righteousness on a lie.
Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
John 8:44
You enter the devil’s family by birth through your physical forefather, Adam.
And Adam lived an hundred and thirty years, and begat a son in his own likeness, after his image; and called his name Seth:
Genesis 5:3
Adam’s image and likeness after the commission of sin and the “fall” in the Garden of Eden, is that of a fallen sinner.
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:
Romans 5:12
We inherited our sin nature from our “father,” Adam. Therefore, we are sentenced to die. We have to be “born again” because, up until then, we’ve only been born once – physically. We are dead spiritually before salvation.
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 6:23
For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.
I Corinthians 15:22
B. God’s family
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
John 1:12-13
Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
John 3:3
As a result of your new birth, you have inherited eternal life.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.
John 6:47
He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
John 3:36
He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.
I John 5:12
II. There should be a “family resemblance.”
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
I Corinthians 6:19
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
II Corinthians 6:14-18
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
II Corinthians 5:17-18
III. There is a “Father – son” relationship.
A. Fathers discipline and forgive their children; children love their fathers and desire to be forgiven when they have offended them.
My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
I John 2:1
B. Fathers protect their children spiritually.
But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
Matthew 6:18
C. Fathers provide for their children.
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
D. Fathers protect their children physically.
[To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth.] God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Psalm 46:1
E. Fathers teach their children.
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 14:26
F. Fathers care about their children.
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
I Peter 5:7
G. Fathers love to give gifts to their children.
If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
Matthew 7:11
IV. A saved person will still sin.
A. God commands His children not to sin.
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
Colossians 3:5-10
Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
II Corinthians 4:14-18
B. God has broken sin’s power over His children.
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Romans 7:25
C. God chastens His children in love.
And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.
Hebrews 12:5-11
D. God forgives His children when they confess their sins to Him.
If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
I John 1:6-10
He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.
Proverbs 28:13
V. Questions
A. How does someone enter God’s family?
By receiving Jesus as his Savior and being born again.
B. Find three verses that promise you eternal life.
John 6:47; John 3:36; I John 5:12
C. After salvation, God deals with you as:
a. a sinner
b. a son
c. a partner
Answer: a son
D. True or false?
1. Everyone must earn his or her way to Heaven. (F)
2. Sin must be confessed to a Christian leader in order to be forgiven. (F)
3. Each person can choose his or her own path to Heaven. (F)
VI. Memory verses
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:
Romans 5:12
Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
John 3:3
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
I John 1:9
Next time: Discipleship Lesson 2: Everlasting Security
The Deep End 