What are Christians called to? Are we called to be holy, set apart by God? Is that what the word saint means? Are all Christians saints?
To all who are in Rome, loved by God, called as saints. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 1:7 HCSB)
Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both their's and our's: (1 Corinthians 1:2 KJV)
Is it a permanent calling?
For God's gifts and his call can never be withdrawn. (Romans 11:29 NLT)
Is it wrong to talk to saints who have died? Are they awake or asleep until the resurrection? What does Jesus’ transfiguration teach us?
And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. (Matthew 17:2-3 NASB)
Was this a vision of future resurrected saints looking back in history or did they speak of events still in their future?
And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. (Luke 9:30-31 ESV)
Are deceased saints really aware of events here on earth?
When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. They called out in a loud voice, “How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?” (Revelation 6:9-10 NIV)
Are we also called into fellowship with Jesus?
God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:9 ESV)
Should we be vain and arrogant about our calling, or humble? Are mostly foolish and weak people without much influence called? Is that designed by God to put the wise and strong of this world to shame?
Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. (1 Corinthians 1:26-27 NIV)
Did God call the righteous or sinners?
Go and learn what the Scriptures mean when they say, ‘Instead of offering sacrifices to me, I want you to be merciful to others.’ I didn't come to invite good people to be my followers. I came to invite sinners. (Matthew 9:13 CEV)
Is our calling holy, not according to our works, but because of God’s plan and grace?
… God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity (2 Timothy 1:8-9 NASB)
Must we make an effort to confirm our calling?
Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble (2 Peter 1:10 NKJV)
When Matthew was called, did he choose to follow Jesus?
As Jesus continued on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at a kiosk for collecting taxes. He said to him, “Follow me,” and he got up and followed him. (Matthew 9:9 CEB)
What was a rich young man’s choice, when Jesus called him to be a follower? What did Jesus say to him?
Jesus replied, “If you want to be perfect, go sell everything you own! Give the money to the poor, and you will have riches in heaven. Then come and be my follower.” When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he was very rich. (Matthew 19:21-22 CEV)
Do some respond to the call, but are not chosen? In the parable of the wedding feast, we see a man who was not properly clothed, and therefore kicked out of the royal wedding celebrations.
But when the king came in to look over the dinner guests, he saw a man there who was not dressed in wedding clothes, and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without wedding clothes?’ And the man was speechless. Then the king said to the servants, ‘Tie his hands and feet, and throw him into the outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth in that place.’ (Matthew 22:11-13 NASB)
Did the guest at the wedding figuratively not put on the righteousness of Christ, the sanctification of the Holy Spirit? How many are like this, called but not chosen?
For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matthew 22:14 NKJV)
Can we rely on mere human righteousness?
But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. (Isaiah 64:6 KJV)
Why are many called but not chosen? Does the parable of the bags of gold or talents teach us that our calling entails responsibility? What happened to the lazy servant?
‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ (Matthew 25:28-29 NIV)
How did Paul view his personal responsibility towards his calling?
I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. (Philippians 3:14 NLT)
To what kind of life have we been called?
God didn't choose you to be filthy, but to be pure. (1 Thessalonians 4:7 CEV)
but just as he who called you is holy, you yourselves also be holy in all of your behavior (1 Peter 1:15 WEB)
Will we respond to our calling like Matthew, or walk away like the rich young man? Are we diligent or lazy in our calling? Have we put on Christ or are we self-satisfied with our own righteousness which is like filthy rags? You decide!
Christmas
Christmas is a season mixed with good and evil. Let’s learn about the good from Luke 2.
A Decree
“And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.” (Luke 2:1-5 NKJV)
Bethlehem was surrounded by sheep herds, to be offered in the Temple sacrifices. How symbolic that the Lamb of God should be born there.
Delivered
“So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:6-7 NKJV)
The word inn is a weak translation. They were probably staying with relatives, who had several extra “lodging rooms” available, but these were filled, so Joseph and Mary probably stayed in an attached barn, the lowest of circumstances.
Shepherds
“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:8-12 NKJV)
Shepherds were poor, yet angels invited them to celebrate the birth of Christ. It’s not wrong to celebrate the birth of Christ. Wealthy local dignitaries were not invited.
Angels
“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!’ So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.’” (Luke 2:13-15 NKJV)
Men from one of the lowliest professions celebrated with the angels. We too are invited.
“And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.” (Luke 2:16-20 NKJV)
Do we glorify and praise God for this birth?
Circumcision and Dedication
“And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, ‘Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord’), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, ‘A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.’” (Luke 2:21-24 NKJV)
Leviticus 12 gives more details, 40 days of purification, a lamb to be offered, unless you were poor, only doves and pigeons. This gives us a glimpse into Joseph and Mary’s finances.
Simeon
“And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: ‘Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.’” (Luke 2:25-32 NKJV)
Since the early centuries this section has been set to music and called the Song of Simeon. It is sometimes sung before departing an evening church service.
“And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, ‘Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.’” (Luke 2:33-35 NKJV)
Imagine attending church and someone saying something similar to you.
Anna
“Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:36-38 NKJV)
Because of her closeness to God, she was instantly aware of what was going on, giving God thanks.
Return to Nazareth
“So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” (Luke 2:39-40 NKJV)
Puritans ignore Christmas. It was never a Bible mandate. It was not celebrated by Christians until hundreds of years later. Many people have a completely worldly, materialistic Christmas, filling children’s heads with lies. Let’s rejoice with the shepherds, angels and two wise and faithful senior citizens. Let’s join the angels singing “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” You decide!
A Decree
“And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.” (Luke 2:1-5 NKJV)
Bethlehem was surrounded by sheep herds, to be offered in the Temple sacrifices. How symbolic that the Lamb of God should be born there.
Delivered
“So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:6-7 NKJV)
The word inn is a weak translation. They were probably staying with relatives, who had several extra “lodging rooms” available, but these were filled, so Joseph and Mary probably stayed in an attached barn, the lowest of circumstances.
Shepherds
“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:8-12 NKJV)
Shepherds were poor, yet angels invited them to celebrate the birth of Christ. It’s not wrong to celebrate the birth of Christ. Wealthy local dignitaries were not invited.
Angels
“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!’ So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.’” (Luke 2:13-15 NKJV)
Men from one of the lowliest professions celebrated with the angels. We too are invited.
“And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.” (Luke 2:16-20 NKJV)
Do we glorify and praise God for this birth?
Circumcision and Dedication
“And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, ‘Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord’), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, ‘A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.’” (Luke 2:21-24 NKJV)
Leviticus 12 gives more details, 40 days of purification, a lamb to be offered, unless you were poor, only doves and pigeons. This gives us a glimpse into Joseph and Mary’s finances.
Simeon
“And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: ‘Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.’” (Luke 2:25-32 NKJV)
Since the early centuries this section has been set to music and called the Song of Simeon. It is sometimes sung before departing an evening church service.
“And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, ‘Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.’” (Luke 2:33-35 NKJV)
Imagine attending church and someone saying something similar to you.
Anna
“Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:36-38 NKJV)
Because of her closeness to God, she was instantly aware of what was going on, giving God thanks.
Return to Nazareth
“So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” (Luke 2:39-40 NKJV)
Puritans ignore Christmas. It was never a Bible mandate. It was not celebrated by Christians until hundreds of years later. Many people have a completely worldly, materialistic Christmas, filling children’s heads with lies. Let’s rejoice with the shepherds, angels and two wise and faithful senior citizens. Let’s join the angels singing “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” You decide!
Bible E-Course 23a - What is Salvation?
What is salvation? How does it work? In Greek the word for Savior or Deliverer is σωτήρ (soter) and so we call the study of salvation soteriology.
The word save means to liberate, deliver or rescue. We must look at the context to understand what kind of salvation is being referred to.
Temporal Salvation
When enthusiastic Christians ask others if they have been saved, do they even know what that means? In the case of ancient Israel, they were saved from slavery in Egypt.
Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians... (Exodus 14:30 KJV)
We may be saved from sickness.
O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed; if you save me, I will be truly saved. My praises are for you alone! (Jeremiah 17:14 NLT)
We may be saved from our enemies.
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us (Luke 1:68-71 ESV)
Eternal Salvation
More important than temporary physical salvation is eternal salvation from hell. That salvation is on offer to the whole world because of one man.
They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (John 4:42 NIV)
That man is the Son of God.
We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. (1 John 4:14 NASB)
Salvation can refer to being saved from physical problems, but ultimately and primarily refers to being saved from death and hell.
Salvation is a Gift
Eternal salvation is a gift to those who believe. It is not earned.
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9 NKJV)
Many people misunderstand this verse believing it says that faith is the gift. That seems to make sense in English. But in Greek the words “grace” and “faith” are feminine, and the word “saved” is masculine, and the word “that” is neuter. In Greek grammar, the word “that” cannot apply to any of them alone. The gift can be the concept “by grace you have been saved,” a phrase that Paul uses twice. The gift can also mean the concept “by grace you have been saved through faith.” Paul clarifies this elsewhere.
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. (Romans 3:23-25a ESV)
What is God’s free gift?
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23 ESV)
What is grace? Grace is an undeserved kindness, given freely as a gift.
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men (Titus 2:11 KJV)
What saves us?
But God was merciful! We were dead because of our sins, but God loved us so much he made us alive with Christ, and God's gift of undeserved grace is what saves you. (Ephesians 2:5 CEV)
Grace is an undeserved gift of God.
Saving Faith
What is the only requirement for receiving the gift of salvation?
From infancy, you have known the holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith, which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 3:15 WEB)
When will salvation be revealed?
You are being protected by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. (1 Peter 1:5 HCSB)
What kind of faith is required, one that is just a dead claim but does nothing, or a living faith, alive with good works?
What use is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,” yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? 17 In the same way, faith also, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself. (James 2:14-17 NASB)
What is the end result of our faith?
for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (1 Peter 1:9 NIV)
Salvation is a free gift. It is not of works lest any of us should boast, but saving faith is evident by good works. Do you receive God’s undeserved gift? You decide!
The word save means to liberate, deliver or rescue. We must look at the context to understand what kind of salvation is being referred to.
Temporal Salvation
When enthusiastic Christians ask others if they have been saved, do they even know what that means? In the case of ancient Israel, they were saved from slavery in Egypt.
Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians... (Exodus 14:30 KJV)
We may be saved from sickness.
O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed; if you save me, I will be truly saved. My praises are for you alone! (Jeremiah 17:14 NLT)
We may be saved from our enemies.
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us (Luke 1:68-71 ESV)
Eternal Salvation
More important than temporary physical salvation is eternal salvation from hell. That salvation is on offer to the whole world because of one man.
They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (John 4:42 NIV)
That man is the Son of God.
We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. (1 John 4:14 NASB)
Salvation can refer to being saved from physical problems, but ultimately and primarily refers to being saved from death and hell.
Salvation is a Gift
Eternal salvation is a gift to those who believe. It is not earned.
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9 NKJV)
Many people misunderstand this verse believing it says that faith is the gift. That seems to make sense in English. But in Greek the words “grace” and “faith” are feminine, and the word “saved” is masculine, and the word “that” is neuter. In Greek grammar, the word “that” cannot apply to any of them alone. The gift can be the concept “by grace you have been saved,” a phrase that Paul uses twice. The gift can also mean the concept “by grace you have been saved through faith.” Paul clarifies this elsewhere.
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. (Romans 3:23-25a ESV)
What is God’s free gift?
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23 ESV)
What is grace? Grace is an undeserved kindness, given freely as a gift.
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men (Titus 2:11 KJV)
What saves us?
But God was merciful! We were dead because of our sins, but God loved us so much he made us alive with Christ, and God's gift of undeserved grace is what saves you. (Ephesians 2:5 CEV)
Grace is an undeserved gift of God.
Saving Faith
What is the only requirement for receiving the gift of salvation?
From infancy, you have known the holy Scriptures which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith, which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 3:15 WEB)
When will salvation be revealed?
You are being protected by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. (1 Peter 1:5 HCSB)
What kind of faith is required, one that is just a dead claim but does nothing, or a living faith, alive with good works?
What use is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,” yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that? 17 In the same way, faith also, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself. (James 2:14-17 NASB)
What is the end result of our faith?
for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (1 Peter 1:9 NIV)
Salvation is a free gift. It is not of works lest any of us should boast, but saving faith is evident by good works. Do you receive God’s undeserved gift? You decide!
God with Us
The world’s most important birth was about to take place. Why was it almost unknown? What was Joseph's dilemma? What were the baby’s names? Was Mary a perpetual virgin? Let’s look at Matthew 1:18-25.
Joseph’s Dilemma
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 1:18 NKJV)
Joseph, betrothed to Mary, found her pregnant. At that time, a groom typically prepared a home for his bride, which could take a year. When all was prepared, he came to collect his bride, like Christ comes for the Church. Joseph decided to cancel the wedding privately for Mary’s sake.
Joseph’s Mercy
Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. (Matthew 1:19 NKJV)
Imagine being engaged, feeling betrayed, yet loving her and not wanting to disgrace nor punish her. An angel says, it’s of God and her son would bring salvation. You marry her knowing there will be gossip. You also know the child’s name, Jesus (God saves) and Immanuel (God with us).
Name Him Jesus
But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21 NKJV)
Jesus’ name means “YHWH (the Lord) saves.” His name is the hope of the whole world (Matthew 12:15-21). Jesus’ name heals (Mark 9:38-40). We should take Jesus' name seriously and pray for blasphemers. His Greek name is sometimes abbreviated ΙΗΣ[1], IHS in English letters, a sign seen in churches everywhere.
[1] Greek capital letters Iota-Eta-Sigma, biblestudytools.com, newadvent.org/cathen, christogenea.org
God with Us
So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” (Matthew 1:22-23 NKJV)
Jesus is the cornerstone of Christianity, His birth, resurrection, salvation, divinity and humanity. In 451 AD, the last Ecumenical Council recognized by most Protestants, came to the greatest historical consensus on Christ, affirming the Trinity, Christ's virgin birth, his humanity and his deity, and his two natures in one person.
Jesus means Joshua. Two Joshuas were forerunners of Jesus. Joshua the son of Nun conquered 31 cities in Canaan beginning around 1400 BC. Joshua and the promised land symbolize Jesus and eternal life. Joshua the son of Jozadak was a high priest (Haggai 1). Jesus is our high priest (Hebrews 8:3-5).[2]
[2] newadvent.org/cathen; The Oxford History of the Biblical World. 1998. Oxford University Press; biblearchaeology.org; orthodoxytoday.org)
Perpetual Virginity?
Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, 25 and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name Jesus. (Matthew 1:24-25 NKJV)
Was Mary a Perpetual Virgin? Jesus had siblings (Mark 6:3, Matthew 13:55, John 7:3, Acts 1:14, 1 Corinthians 9:5). The Greek word for cousins was not used. In John 19:26-27 Mary is a spiritual mother, not without her own children to look after her.
Psalm 69 is quoted several times in the New Testament, referring prophetically to Jesus.
Those who hate me without a cause (Psalm 69:4; cf. John 15:25)
zeal for Your house has eaten me up (Psalm 69:9a; cf. John 2:17)
the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me. (Psalm 69:9b; cf. Romans 15:3)
And for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink. (Psalm 69:21; cf. John 19:28-29)
It also states plainly that Jesus’ mother had other children.
I have become a stranger to my brothers, And an alien to my mother’s children; (Psalm 69:8 NKJV cf. Isaiah 53:3; Mark 3:21; Luke 8:19; John 7:3-5)
Let’s not be deceived by those who hide doctrinal errors behind claims to infallibility, but repent and seek the truth.
God was born a baby in a stable, suffered, died, was raised again, founded a church, sits now at God’s right hand and will come again to bring about world peace. He offers us the gift of eternal life. Will you accept it? You decide!
Joseph’s Dilemma
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 1:18 NKJV)
Joseph, betrothed to Mary, found her pregnant. At that time, a groom typically prepared a home for his bride, which could take a year. When all was prepared, he came to collect his bride, like Christ comes for the Church. Joseph decided to cancel the wedding privately for Mary’s sake.
Joseph’s Mercy
Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. (Matthew 1:19 NKJV)
Imagine being engaged, feeling betrayed, yet loving her and not wanting to disgrace nor punish her. An angel says, it’s of God and her son would bring salvation. You marry her knowing there will be gossip. You also know the child’s name, Jesus (God saves) and Immanuel (God with us).
Name Him Jesus
But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21 NKJV)
Jesus’ name means “YHWH (the Lord) saves.” His name is the hope of the whole world (Matthew 12:15-21). Jesus’ name heals (Mark 9:38-40). We should take Jesus' name seriously and pray for blasphemers. His Greek name is sometimes abbreviated ΙΗΣ[1], IHS in English letters, a sign seen in churches everywhere.
[1] Greek capital letters Iota-Eta-Sigma, biblestudytools.com, newadvent.org/cathen, christogenea.org
God with Us
So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” (Matthew 1:22-23 NKJV)
Jesus is the cornerstone of Christianity, His birth, resurrection, salvation, divinity and humanity. In 451 AD, the last Ecumenical Council recognized by most Protestants, came to the greatest historical consensus on Christ, affirming the Trinity, Christ's virgin birth, his humanity and his deity, and his two natures in one person.
Jesus means Joshua. Two Joshuas were forerunners of Jesus. Joshua the son of Nun conquered 31 cities in Canaan beginning around 1400 BC. Joshua and the promised land symbolize Jesus and eternal life. Joshua the son of Jozadak was a high priest (Haggai 1). Jesus is our high priest (Hebrews 8:3-5).[2]
[2] newadvent.org/cathen; The Oxford History of the Biblical World. 1998. Oxford University Press; biblearchaeology.org; orthodoxytoday.org)
Perpetual Virginity?
Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, 25 and did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son. And he called His name Jesus. (Matthew 1:24-25 NKJV)
Was Mary a Perpetual Virgin? Jesus had siblings (Mark 6:3, Matthew 13:55, John 7:3, Acts 1:14, 1 Corinthians 9:5). The Greek word for cousins was not used. In John 19:26-27 Mary is a spiritual mother, not without her own children to look after her.
Psalm 69 is quoted several times in the New Testament, referring prophetically to Jesus.
Those who hate me without a cause (Psalm 69:4; cf. John 15:25)
zeal for Your house has eaten me up (Psalm 69:9a; cf. John 2:17)
the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me. (Psalm 69:9b; cf. Romans 15:3)
And for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink. (Psalm 69:21; cf. John 19:28-29)
It also states plainly that Jesus’ mother had other children.
I have become a stranger to my brothers, And an alien to my mother’s children; (Psalm 69:8 NKJV cf. Isaiah 53:3; Mark 3:21; Luke 8:19; John 7:3-5)
Let’s not be deceived by those who hide doctrinal errors behind claims to infallibility, but repent and seek the truth.
God was born a baby in a stable, suffered, died, was raised again, founded a church, sits now at God’s right hand and will come again to bring about world peace. He offers us the gift of eternal life. Will you accept it? You decide!
Bible E-Course 22c - The Word of God
What does it mean to say that something is the word of God?
The Bible
Is the Bible the Word of God? The Scriptures and the Word of God are sometimes treated synonymously throughout the Bible.
Example 1: God said the following.
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you. (Genesis 12:3 NIV)
This is also described as something that scripture said.
Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: ‘All nations will be blessed through you.’ (Galatians 3:8 NIV)
Example 2: We read what God said.
But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” (Exodus 9:16 NIV)
Elsewhere this is something that scripture said.
Scripture says to Pharaoh: ‘I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.’ (Romans 9:17 NIV)
Example 3: David asked a question.
Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?” (Psalm 2:1 NIV)
Peter and John concluded that God said this.
You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: ‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?' (Acts 4:24-25 NIV)
So the word of God can refer to scripture.
If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture can’t be broken), (John 10:35 WEB)
The phrase “word of God” can also mean various other things depending on context.
A Quote from God
Can the word of God mean a quote from God?
But the word of God came unto Shemaiah the man of God, saying… (1 Kings 12:22 KJV)
What followed the word “saying” was the word of God in that context. Again we read:
But it happened that same night, that the word of God came to Nathan, saying… (1 Chronicles 17:3 NASB)
In both these cases the word of God was what God actually said, a quote from God. This is the narrowest definition of the phrase.
God’s Commandments
Can the word of God refer to God’s commandments? The Pharisees say:
they are not to ‘honor their father or mother’ with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. (Matthew 15:6 NIV)
Preaching
Can the word of God refer to public preaching?
So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, (Luke 5:1 NKJV)
So, the word of God can refer to something we hear.
Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” (Luke 11:28 NLT)
Can it refer to what people speak?
And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. (Acts 4:31 ESV)
So both ends of a discourse, the speaking and hearing, can be described as the word of God.
Jesus
Is Jesus also the Word of God?
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-3, 14 NKJV)
Depending on context, the phrase “word of God” can be narrowly a quote from God, and more broadly God’s commandments, public preaching, the person of Jesus and even the scriptures. Do you believe in the Word of God? You decide!
The Bible
Is the Bible the Word of God? The Scriptures and the Word of God are sometimes treated synonymously throughout the Bible.
Example 1: God said the following.
I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you. (Genesis 12:3 NIV)
This is also described as something that scripture said.
Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: ‘All nations will be blessed through you.’ (Galatians 3:8 NIV)
Example 2: We read what God said.
But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” (Exodus 9:16 NIV)
Elsewhere this is something that scripture said.
Scripture says to Pharaoh: ‘I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.’ (Romans 9:17 NIV)
Example 3: David asked a question.
Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?” (Psalm 2:1 NIV)
Peter and John concluded that God said this.
You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: ‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?' (Acts 4:24-25 NIV)
So the word of God can refer to scripture.
If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture can’t be broken), (John 10:35 WEB)
The phrase “word of God” can also mean various other things depending on context.
A Quote from God
Can the word of God mean a quote from God?
But the word of God came unto Shemaiah the man of God, saying… (1 Kings 12:22 KJV)
What followed the word “saying” was the word of God in that context. Again we read:
But it happened that same night, that the word of God came to Nathan, saying… (1 Chronicles 17:3 NASB)
In both these cases the word of God was what God actually said, a quote from God. This is the narrowest definition of the phrase.
God’s Commandments
Can the word of God refer to God’s commandments? The Pharisees say:
they are not to ‘honor their father or mother’ with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition. (Matthew 15:6 NIV)
Preaching
Can the word of God refer to public preaching?
So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, (Luke 5:1 NKJV)
So, the word of God can refer to something we hear.
Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” (Luke 11:28 NLT)
Can it refer to what people speak?
And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. (Acts 4:31 ESV)
So both ends of a discourse, the speaking and hearing, can be described as the word of God.
Jesus
Is Jesus also the Word of God?
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-3, 14 NKJV)
Depending on context, the phrase “word of God” can be narrowly a quote from God, and more broadly God’s commandments, public preaching, the person of Jesus and even the scriptures. Do you believe in the Word of God? You decide!
Matthew 11 Offended by Jesus
Was John the Baptist offended by Jesus? If He walked the earth today would we be offended by Him? Let’s examine the real Jesus and being offended at Jesus in Matthew 11:2-11.
Are You the One?
And when John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples and said to Him, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (Matthew 11:2-3 NKJV)
After preparing the way for Jesus, John the Baptist doubted. Was Jesus the ONE? He was different from what John and even the disciples expected. He was a pacifist not a freedom fighter. Jesus ate and drank with sinners. John was an ascetic under a Nazirite vow who did not drink alcohol. Like John, Jesus preached repentance and the kingdom, but He also turned the other cheek and healed people.
Are we as disappointed in Jesus? He did not encourage many things that our denominations push - tongues, Sabbaths, prayers to Mary, rosaries, nationalism, or a materialistic health-wealth gospel. He condemned abusive, authoritarian religious leadership. He preached to the poor about giving and self-sacrifice, and a kingdom not of this world.
Are we frustrated by Jesus? John was an activist and revolutionary. Jesus was a healer and teacher. Jesus did not make John a disciple. John looked for a political Messiah to free the Jews from Rome. Are we disappointed with Jesus, His life of poverty and dying on a cross or do we wait patiently for His return?
Offended by Jesus
Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: The blind see and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” (Matthew 11:4-6 NKJV)
Jesus warned of the danger of doubt. It can cause us to be offended. What do we think about when we hear about Jesus, a little baby in a manger, or someone who heals people and preaches to the poor? Instead of an imaginary Jesus of our wishes, let us get to know the real Jesus and be grateful for who He really is.
Is our salvation found in the ways of this world? Jesus used no worldly methods. The blind received sight, the lame walked, lepers were cleansed, the deaf heard, the dead were raised up, and the poor heard the good news. This is what the Messiah looks like. He is the one.
Have we created a fake Jesus in our minds? Do vain human traditions picture the truth about Jesus? Denominationalism, politics, and traditions only divide us. Do we build a Jesus that we created, because we are disappointed with the simplicity of the real Jesus? The real Jesus unites us.
I Send My messenger
As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. For this is he of whom it is written: ‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, Who will prepare Your way before You.’ (Matthew 11:7-12 NKJV)
A reed shaken by a wind describes preachers who teach what's popular, the latest wind, not timeless truths. The early church rescued December from paganism to rejoice with the angels and shepherds over a birth. But Christmas can still be a pagan festival, merchandising for profit, focusing on gifts, parties, the pressure to spend, and filling our children's heads with lies. There is still a voice of one crying in the wilderness. Let’s rescue Christmas from its ever present paganism.
The Violent Take it by Force
“Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. (Matthew 11:11-12 NKJV)
God’s kingdom suffered violence when John was murdered. Violent people take over the church with evil motives. The Greek word can also be translated as zeal and certainly ardent zeal in the face of opposition is needed for Christians to enter God’s kingdom. Christianity is not the easy path. It is an ongoing spiritual battle against evil.
Do we know the real Jesus or have we created a fictitious Jesus? Are we expecting Him to create a cushy Disneyland for us now, or do we look forward to that day when He will return and take over the governments of this world? Have we put our faith in the real Jesus?
Are You the One?
And when John had heard in prison about the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples and said to Him, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (Matthew 11:2-3 NKJV)
After preparing the way for Jesus, John the Baptist doubted. Was Jesus the ONE? He was different from what John and even the disciples expected. He was a pacifist not a freedom fighter. Jesus ate and drank with sinners. John was an ascetic under a Nazirite vow who did not drink alcohol. Like John, Jesus preached repentance and the kingdom, but He also turned the other cheek and healed people.
Are we as disappointed in Jesus? He did not encourage many things that our denominations push - tongues, Sabbaths, prayers to Mary, rosaries, nationalism, or a materialistic health-wealth gospel. He condemned abusive, authoritarian religious leadership. He preached to the poor about giving and self-sacrifice, and a kingdom not of this world.
Are we frustrated by Jesus? John was an activist and revolutionary. Jesus was a healer and teacher. Jesus did not make John a disciple. John looked for a political Messiah to free the Jews from Rome. Are we disappointed with Jesus, His life of poverty and dying on a cross or do we wait patiently for His return?
Offended by Jesus
Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: The blind see and the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear; the dead are raised up and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” (Matthew 11:4-6 NKJV)
Jesus warned of the danger of doubt. It can cause us to be offended. What do we think about when we hear about Jesus, a little baby in a manger, or someone who heals people and preaches to the poor? Instead of an imaginary Jesus of our wishes, let us get to know the real Jesus and be grateful for who He really is.
Is our salvation found in the ways of this world? Jesus used no worldly methods. The blind received sight, the lame walked, lepers were cleansed, the deaf heard, the dead were raised up, and the poor heard the good news. This is what the Messiah looks like. He is the one.
Have we created a fake Jesus in our minds? Do vain human traditions picture the truth about Jesus? Denominationalism, politics, and traditions only divide us. Do we build a Jesus that we created, because we are disappointed with the simplicity of the real Jesus? The real Jesus unites us.
I Send My messenger
As they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. For this is he of whom it is written: ‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face, Who will prepare Your way before You.’ (Matthew 11:7-12 NKJV)
A reed shaken by a wind describes preachers who teach what's popular, the latest wind, not timeless truths. The early church rescued December from paganism to rejoice with the angels and shepherds over a birth. But Christmas can still be a pagan festival, merchandising for profit, focusing on gifts, parties, the pressure to spend, and filling our children's heads with lies. There is still a voice of one crying in the wilderness. Let’s rescue Christmas from its ever present paganism.
The Violent Take it by Force
“Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. (Matthew 11:11-12 NKJV)
God’s kingdom suffered violence when John was murdered. Violent people take over the church with evil motives. The Greek word can also be translated as zeal and certainly ardent zeal in the face of opposition is needed for Christians to enter God’s kingdom. Christianity is not the easy path. It is an ongoing spiritual battle against evil.
Do we know the real Jesus or have we created a fictitious Jesus? Are we expecting Him to create a cushy Disneyland for us now, or do we look forward to that day when He will return and take over the governments of this world? Have we put our faith in the real Jesus?
Bible E-Course 22b - Bible Canon
The Christian Bible forms the measure of our faith. While tradition, reason and experience can contribute in valuable ways to our faith, they are not always the teachings of Jesus, the prophets and apostles. Let’s look at the canon of the Bible.
Compiling the Bible over thousands of years is called canonization. Canon means rule or measure and the Bible canon is thus the measure of the Christian faith. Canonization was a process whereby over time, ancient documents were deemed as authoritative and thus incorporated into the Bible by believers.
The Old Testament or Hebrew Scriptures were put together in a gradual process beginning with the earliest records compiled by Moses and concluding with Ezra. The New Testament canon was widely recognized long before any official acceptance.
Factors involved in deciding which books ought to be in the New Testament included that each piece was to be of apostolic origin, catholic (that is, universally accepted), Christ-centered, orthodox in its teaching, and contain internal evidence supporting it.
The number of books in the Christian Bible varies across Protestant, Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Assyrian Eastern traditions. However, we all agree on the same central 66 books. The canon was already widely recognized and later confirmed during many North African meetings of church leaders known as the Councils of Carthage from 397 to 419 AD.
Inerrancy and infallibility
Inerrancy is a term that is much maligned and misunderstood. It is not found in the Bible. Rather, it is a negative synonym to the positive biblical word truth.
Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. (John 17:17 NIV)
Is understanding the Bible important?
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV)
Inerrant explains truth to a world that no longer believes in absolute truth. It does not include translation errors. It means that the Bible will not fail in its purpose.
Inerrancy is not a perfect word but is widely used among conservative Christians and usually limited to describing the original writings. Inerrantists recognize that no later translation of the Bible is perfect.
Another proposition is the infallibility of the Bible. Some believe it’s a better word, some think it is equal, and others consider it to be inferior to inerrancy. Infallibility means that the Bible is completely trustworthy as a guide to salvation and faith. It will accomplish its purpose.
How to Understand the Bible
Interpretation
How can we understand the Bible? Do we need heaven to help us understand? Did the Holy Spirit aid the apostles in accurately recalling events of Christ’s earthly ministry that they would eventually write down?
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. (John 14:26 NASB)
Does something or someone lighten our path?
There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. (John 1:9 NASB)
The most widely accepted process of understanding the Bible among faithful experts is to start with exegesis. That means to prayerfully extract as best we can the original meaning. We don’t begin by shoving our culture backwards into history. Rather, we begin in the past, with their culture, their grammar, genre, history, and ask questions like “What did the author intend?”, “What did God intend?”, “What does the text actually say?”, and “What does the text NOT say?”
The process of exegesis is already done in large part down through history by dedicated theologians and other researchers who understand the original languages and study ancient history. One of the very best places to start is by using trusted conservative commentaries. Beware! Some Bible commentaries are written by people who do not believe that all scripture is God breathed. They sow doubt and not faith.
It is almost a useless exercise asking a group Bible Study questions like, “What does this verse mean to you?” In reality, we should not care what people THINK a text means. We should want to know what it actually means. That’s where experts who write commentaries help.
Application
The whole process of studying the Bible should take us from the historical context through a modern application into our hope of eternity. This process is also called hermeneutics. Since ancient times, Bible students have studied four different facets of hermeneutics: a literal, moral, allegorical and anagogical lesson. The last of these deals with the afterlife. Any passage of scripture can involve all four facets.
Application can be a joyful journey of Christian discussion. The application step is where everyone can be an expert. How does a passage of Scripture apply to business, politics, church, farm, community and family?
The application step can also be dangerous, legalistic and even heretical. We may be tempted to have legalistic man-made rules which supersede God’s law, vain traditions and even heresy.
The Holy Spirit’s Help
The Holy Spirit helps us understand the Bible. However, we need to be careful, pray for discernment, and test or prove the spirits.
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1 NASB)
Many people have gone off in crazy directions claiming that the Holy Spirit led them there. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Bible to our understanding, but He also lights up the understanding of others who can advise us. Going it alone is dangerous for any Christian. Conservative Bible commentaries, written by those who actually believe the Bible, are excellent counselors.
Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. (Proverbs 11:14 ESV)
Of course, the Holy Spirit is our main advisor.
… these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit… that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual… they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:9-14 ESV)
May our hearts be flooded with heavenly light.
I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. (Ephesians 1:18 NLT)
Do you believe that God inspired a handbook for all humanity? Do you believe it to be a record of His dealings with mankind through many generations? Do you believe it contains a blueprint of His eternal plan for us? You decide!
Compiling the Bible over thousands of years is called canonization. Canon means rule or measure and the Bible canon is thus the measure of the Christian faith. Canonization was a process whereby over time, ancient documents were deemed as authoritative and thus incorporated into the Bible by believers.
The Old Testament or Hebrew Scriptures were put together in a gradual process beginning with the earliest records compiled by Moses and concluding with Ezra. The New Testament canon was widely recognized long before any official acceptance.
Factors involved in deciding which books ought to be in the New Testament included that each piece was to be of apostolic origin, catholic (that is, universally accepted), Christ-centered, orthodox in its teaching, and contain internal evidence supporting it.
The number of books in the Christian Bible varies across Protestant, Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Assyrian Eastern traditions. However, we all agree on the same central 66 books. The canon was already widely recognized and later confirmed during many North African meetings of church leaders known as the Councils of Carthage from 397 to 419 AD.
Inerrancy and infallibility
Inerrancy is a term that is much maligned and misunderstood. It is not found in the Bible. Rather, it is a negative synonym to the positive biblical word truth.
Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. (John 17:17 NIV)
Is understanding the Bible important?
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV)
Inerrant explains truth to a world that no longer believes in absolute truth. It does not include translation errors. It means that the Bible will not fail in its purpose.
Inerrancy is not a perfect word but is widely used among conservative Christians and usually limited to describing the original writings. Inerrantists recognize that no later translation of the Bible is perfect.
Another proposition is the infallibility of the Bible. Some believe it’s a better word, some think it is equal, and others consider it to be inferior to inerrancy. Infallibility means that the Bible is completely trustworthy as a guide to salvation and faith. It will accomplish its purpose.
How to Understand the Bible
Interpretation
How can we understand the Bible? Do we need heaven to help us understand? Did the Holy Spirit aid the apostles in accurately recalling events of Christ’s earthly ministry that they would eventually write down?
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. (John 14:26 NASB)
Does something or someone lighten our path?
There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. (John 1:9 NASB)
The most widely accepted process of understanding the Bible among faithful experts is to start with exegesis. That means to prayerfully extract as best we can the original meaning. We don’t begin by shoving our culture backwards into history. Rather, we begin in the past, with their culture, their grammar, genre, history, and ask questions like “What did the author intend?”, “What did God intend?”, “What does the text actually say?”, and “What does the text NOT say?”
The process of exegesis is already done in large part down through history by dedicated theologians and other researchers who understand the original languages and study ancient history. One of the very best places to start is by using trusted conservative commentaries. Beware! Some Bible commentaries are written by people who do not believe that all scripture is God breathed. They sow doubt and not faith.
It is almost a useless exercise asking a group Bible Study questions like, “What does this verse mean to you?” In reality, we should not care what people THINK a text means. We should want to know what it actually means. That’s where experts who write commentaries help.
Application
The whole process of studying the Bible should take us from the historical context through a modern application into our hope of eternity. This process is also called hermeneutics. Since ancient times, Bible students have studied four different facets of hermeneutics: a literal, moral, allegorical and anagogical lesson. The last of these deals with the afterlife. Any passage of scripture can involve all four facets.
Application can be a joyful journey of Christian discussion. The application step is where everyone can be an expert. How does a passage of Scripture apply to business, politics, church, farm, community and family?
The application step can also be dangerous, legalistic and even heretical. We may be tempted to have legalistic man-made rules which supersede God’s law, vain traditions and even heresy.
The Holy Spirit’s Help
The Holy Spirit helps us understand the Bible. However, we need to be careful, pray for discernment, and test or prove the spirits.
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. (1 John 4:1 NASB)
Many people have gone off in crazy directions claiming that the Holy Spirit led them there. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Bible to our understanding, but He also lights up the understanding of others who can advise us. Going it alone is dangerous for any Christian. Conservative Bible commentaries, written by those who actually believe the Bible, are excellent counselors.
Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. (Proverbs 11:14 ESV)
Of course, the Holy Spirit is our main advisor.
… these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit… that we might understand the things freely given us by God. And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual… they are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:9-14 ESV)
May our hearts be flooded with heavenly light.
I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. (Ephesians 1:18 NLT)
Do you believe that God inspired a handbook for all humanity? Do you believe it to be a record of His dealings with mankind through many generations? Do you believe it contains a blueprint of His eternal plan for us? You decide!
Matthew 3 Preparing the Way for Christ
Is believing without repenting valid? Why did both Jesus and John the Baptist preach repent? Let’s learn why in Matthew 3:1-12.
Preaching & Teaching (vs 1)
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea (Matthew 3:1)
In the Bible the word "preach" means “announce” the Gospel publicly (Matthew 3:1-2; 4:17). We call an in-house sermon preaching, but the Bible calls it teaching. Preaching was public. Teaching was instructing believers (Matthew 28:19-20). What did John preach?
Repent (vs 2a)
and saying, “Repent” (Matthew 3:2a)
Repent of what? What was wrong? What’s wrong with our world? The meaning here is “a change of heart.” Does our world need to change? Repentance brings hope of a new beginning.
Is repentance then just a one time thing? Big “R” repentance is when one first turns from sin to God. Little “r” repentance is like course corrections on our pilgrimage. In this life we never stop repenting.
God’s Kingdom (vs 2b)
“… for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 3:2b)
John’s announcement of repentance had a great sense of urgency, “the kingdom of heaven is near.” The rule of God or heaven is now in the lives of those who accept him. A modern equivalent is saying that God is now taking control.1
1 The Gospel of Matthew, The New International Commentary of the New Testament, R. T. France, 2007, Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing Co, p. 102
Wilderness (vs 3)
For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.’ ” (vs 3)
John did not preach in Jerusalem or the temple. He preached both in the literal wilderness and the spiritual wilderness of a sinful world. An international trade route passed here. Hence, the analogy of preparing the way and paths. How interesting that there is one way, but many paths. That is like Christianity as one way, but with many denominations.
Country Preacher (vs 4)
Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. (vs 4)
John the baptizer was a wilderness preacher dressed in poor country rags, challenging established religion, likely seen by religious leaders as a rebel. He emphasized repentance, a change of heart. John did not encourage the repentant to make a sin offering (Leviticus 5), but to be baptized in water. He paved the way for a new high priest who would also baptize people with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Baptized (vs 5-6)
Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. (vs 5-6)
We are introduced to one of the most important newscasters of all history. His announcement was made in the wilderness at the edge of Roman imperial control. This last of the Old Testament prophets was dressed in the simple clothing of poor farming folk like Elijah. Where Israel crossed the Jordan to become God’s kingdom on earth, John announced the kingdom of heaven.
Snakes (vs 7)
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (vs 7)
John’s preaching was the uncomfortable truth. Like Jesus, he said repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and called religious leaders snakes. What was needed?
Fruits (vs 8)
Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, (vs 8)
True repentance is accompanied by fruits, action. The unasked question is: What must change? The root cause of all our planet’s ills is spiritual and so is the solution. What are the necessary fruits?
but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. (Acts 26:20)
If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. (James 2:15-17)
What happens if we don’t bear fruit?
Good Fruit (vs 9-10)
and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. (vs 9-10)
What is good fruit?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)
that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; (Colossians 1:10)
How did John speak of Jesus?
A More Powerful One (vs 11)
I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (vs 11)
A bishop’s mitre hat pictures tongues of fire of Pentecost. The pouring out of the Holy Spirit is also symbolized by water poured out on the head, practiced by some in baptism.
Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. (Acts 2:3)
Baptism with fire has a double meaning. The unrepentant will also be tossed into a lake of fire.
And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:15)
What does the lake of fire do?
Unquenchable Fire (vs 12)
“His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” (vs 12)
This seems to describe annihilation in hell. Other scriptures seem to describe eternal suffering, not annihilation. Let’s leave that on the shelf until Christ’s return? The bottom line? Hell bad; heaven good; choose heaven. Jesus spoke more about hell than any other in the entire Bible. Should we follow John’s and Christ’s example calling for repentance?
That this is a rebellious people, Lying children, Children who will not hear the law of the Lord; Who say to the seers, “Do not see,” And to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us right things; Speak to us smooth things, prophesy deceits. Get out of the way, Turn aside from the path, Cause the Holy One of Israel To cease from before us.” (Isaiah 30:9-11)
Outro/Take Home
Have we in the contemporary church failed God, by preaching smooth things? Instead of a hollow motivational speech do we need to get back to preaching repentance and the kingdom of God like John and Jesus? You decide!
Preaching & Teaching (vs 1)
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea (Matthew 3:1)
In the Bible the word "preach" means “announce” the Gospel publicly (Matthew 3:1-2; 4:17). We call an in-house sermon preaching, but the Bible calls it teaching. Preaching was public. Teaching was instructing believers (Matthew 28:19-20). What did John preach?
Repent (vs 2a)
and saying, “Repent” (Matthew 3:2a)
Repent of what? What was wrong? What’s wrong with our world? The meaning here is “a change of heart.” Does our world need to change? Repentance brings hope of a new beginning.
Is repentance then just a one time thing? Big “R” repentance is when one first turns from sin to God. Little “r” repentance is like course corrections on our pilgrimage. In this life we never stop repenting.
God’s Kingdom (vs 2b)
“… for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 3:2b)
John’s announcement of repentance had a great sense of urgency, “the kingdom of heaven is near.” The rule of God or heaven is now in the lives of those who accept him. A modern equivalent is saying that God is now taking control.1
1 The Gospel of Matthew, The New International Commentary of the New Testament, R. T. France, 2007, Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing Co, p. 102
Wilderness (vs 3)
For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; Make His paths straight.’ ” (vs 3)
John did not preach in Jerusalem or the temple. He preached both in the literal wilderness and the spiritual wilderness of a sinful world. An international trade route passed here. Hence, the analogy of preparing the way and paths. How interesting that there is one way, but many paths. That is like Christianity as one way, but with many denominations.
Country Preacher (vs 4)
Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. (vs 4)
John the baptizer was a wilderness preacher dressed in poor country rags, challenging established religion, likely seen by religious leaders as a rebel. He emphasized repentance, a change of heart. John did not encourage the repentant to make a sin offering (Leviticus 5), but to be baptized in water. He paved the way for a new high priest who would also baptize people with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Baptized (vs 5-6)
Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. (vs 5-6)
We are introduced to one of the most important newscasters of all history. His announcement was made in the wilderness at the edge of Roman imperial control. This last of the Old Testament prophets was dressed in the simple clothing of poor farming folk like Elijah. Where Israel crossed the Jordan to become God’s kingdom on earth, John announced the kingdom of heaven.
Snakes (vs 7)
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (vs 7)
John’s preaching was the uncomfortable truth. Like Jesus, he said repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and called religious leaders snakes. What was needed?
Fruits (vs 8)
Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, (vs 8)
True repentance is accompanied by fruits, action. The unasked question is: What must change? The root cause of all our planet’s ills is spiritual and so is the solution. What are the necessary fruits?
but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. (Acts 26:20)
If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. (James 2:15-17)
What happens if we don’t bear fruit?
Good Fruit (vs 9-10)
and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. (vs 9-10)
What is good fruit?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)
that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; (Colossians 1:10)
How did John speak of Jesus?
A More Powerful One (vs 11)
I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (vs 11)
A bishop’s mitre hat pictures tongues of fire of Pentecost. The pouring out of the Holy Spirit is also symbolized by water poured out on the head, practiced by some in baptism.
Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. (Acts 2:3)
Baptism with fire has a double meaning. The unrepentant will also be tossed into a lake of fire.
And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:15)
What does the lake of fire do?
Unquenchable Fire (vs 12)
“His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” (vs 12)
This seems to describe annihilation in hell. Other scriptures seem to describe eternal suffering, not annihilation. Let’s leave that on the shelf until Christ’s return? The bottom line? Hell bad; heaven good; choose heaven. Jesus spoke more about hell than any other in the entire Bible. Should we follow John’s and Christ’s example calling for repentance?
That this is a rebellious people, Lying children, Children who will not hear the law of the Lord; Who say to the seers, “Do not see,” And to the prophets, “Do not prophesy to us right things; Speak to us smooth things, prophesy deceits. Get out of the way, Turn aside from the path, Cause the Holy One of Israel To cease from before us.” (Isaiah 30:9-11)
Outro/Take Home
Have we in the contemporary church failed God, by preaching smooth things? Instead of a hollow motivational speech do we need to get back to preaching repentance and the kingdom of God like John and Jesus? You decide!
Bible E-Course 22a - How God Reveals Himself
Does God reveal Himself in the Bible? How do we understand the Bible? How was the Bible composed? Studying God’s revelation of Himself in the Bible is called bibliology.
22a. How God Reveals Himself
God reveals Himself to humans in various ways, generally in His creation and specially in other ways. One of those special forms of self-disclosure is the Bible. Let’s first look at general revelation.
1. General Revelation
Does all creation broadcast abundant and compelling evidence for God’s existence?
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. (Psalm 19:1-4 NIV)
Do people suppress the truth of God’s existence? Do highly educated, very intelligent people bury the ubiquitous evidence for God under a cloud of excuses?
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. (Romans 1:18-20 NASB)
Are the basics of God’s law universally instinctive throughout human cultures?
Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. (Romans 2:14-15 NLT)
Does God still lovingly provide even for those who ignore the obvious natural witnesses of His existence and instead worship things made by mankind?
… God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them, who in bygone generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. (Acts 14:15-17 NKJV)
How much information about God can we discover without extra revelation?
2. Special Revelation
Does God provide us with special revelation beyond what we can observe with our eyes or that human culture can discover naturally? To whom do the scriptures point?
You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. (John 5:39-40 NIV)
Must God condescend to and accommodate our limited human abilities? Does God reveal His will in special ways?
Dreams
Has God revealed Himself in dreams?
But God came to Abimelek in a dream one night and said to him, "You are as good as dead because of the woman you have taken; she is a married woman." (Genesis 20:3 NIV)
Visions
Has God revealed Himself in visions, something seen in an ecstatic state?
Some time later, the LORD spoke to Abram in a vision and said to him, "Do not be afraid, Abram, for I will protect you, and your reward will be great." (Genesis 15:1 NLT)
Theophanies
Has God used a theophany, a visible manifestation of Himself?
When Joshua was by Jericho, he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing before him… I am the commander of the army of the Lord… Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so. (Joshua 5:13-15 ESV)
Divine Speech
Has God revealed Himself in voice only?
Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said, “Who is this that darkens counsel By words without knowledge? (Job 38:1-2 NASB)
Special Acts
Has God revealed Himself in special acts?
And Israel saw that great work which the LORD did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD, and his servant Moses. (Exodus 14:31 KJV)
Jesus Christ
Is God revealed in Jesus?
No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him. (John 1:18 NKJV)
The Bible
Is the Bible a written form of special revelation? Is all of it inspired, even the parts that some people avoid?
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)
The Bible is a collection of documents from about forty witnesses, written down over perhaps 1500 years. What special claim is made about its source?
for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:21 NKJV)
Was the Bible given by inspiration of God as its writers were moved by the Holy Spirit? Is it right then, to call all scripture God breathed? You decide!
22a. How God Reveals Himself
God reveals Himself to humans in various ways, generally in His creation and specially in other ways. One of those special forms of self-disclosure is the Bible. Let’s first look at general revelation.
1. General Revelation
Does all creation broadcast abundant and compelling evidence for God’s existence?
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. (Psalm 19:1-4 NIV)
Do people suppress the truth of God’s existence? Do highly educated, very intelligent people bury the ubiquitous evidence for God under a cloud of excuses?
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. (Romans 1:18-20 NASB)
Are the basics of God’s law universally instinctive throughout human cultures?
Even Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, show that they know his law when they instinctively obey it, even without having heard it. They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right. (Romans 2:14-15 NLT)
Does God still lovingly provide even for those who ignore the obvious natural witnesses of His existence and instead worship things made by mankind?
… God, who made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all things that are in them, who in bygone generations allowed all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. (Acts 14:15-17 NKJV)
How much information about God can we discover without extra revelation?
2. Special Revelation
Does God provide us with special revelation beyond what we can observe with our eyes or that human culture can discover naturally? To whom do the scriptures point?
You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. (John 5:39-40 NIV)
Must God condescend to and accommodate our limited human abilities? Does God reveal His will in special ways?
Dreams
Has God revealed Himself in dreams?
But God came to Abimelek in a dream one night and said to him, "You are as good as dead because of the woman you have taken; she is a married woman." (Genesis 20:3 NIV)
Visions
Has God revealed Himself in visions, something seen in an ecstatic state?
Some time later, the LORD spoke to Abram in a vision and said to him, "Do not be afraid, Abram, for I will protect you, and your reward will be great." (Genesis 15:1 NLT)
Theophanies
Has God used a theophany, a visible manifestation of Himself?
When Joshua was by Jericho, he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing before him… I am the commander of the army of the Lord… Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so. (Joshua 5:13-15 ESV)
Divine Speech
Has God revealed Himself in voice only?
Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said, “Who is this that darkens counsel By words without knowledge? (Job 38:1-2 NASB)
Special Acts
Has God revealed Himself in special acts?
And Israel saw that great work which the LORD did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD, and his servant Moses. (Exodus 14:31 KJV)
Jesus Christ
Is God revealed in Jesus?
No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him. (John 1:18 NKJV)
The Bible
Is the Bible a written form of special revelation? Is all of it inspired, even the parts that some people avoid?
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)
The Bible is a collection of documents from about forty witnesses, written down over perhaps 1500 years. What special claim is made about its source?
for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:21 NKJV)
Was the Bible given by inspiration of God as its writers were moved by the Holy Spirit? Is it right then, to call all scripture God breathed? You decide!
Bible E-Course 21b - Solution to Sin
What’s the origin and solution to sin? Sin actually began in the angelic realm. Who deceived Eve?
“But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:3 KJV)
How was sin transferred to humanity?
“When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.” (Romans 5:12 NLT)
Inherited
Did Adam’s original sin create an environment in which everybody suffers and dies?
“For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:12-21 NLT)
How early does sin affect us?
“For I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.” (Psalm 51:5 NLT)
When Christians Sin
Christians have had a life-changing repentance or “metanoia” experience in regard to sin. Do Christians still sin even though they don’t want to?
“For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. 16 If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. 17 But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. 19 For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. 20 Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.” (Romans 7:15-20 NKJV)
The difference is that a Christian’s sin is covered.
“Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them.” (Romans 4:7-8 NIV)
Must we forgive others?
“Forgive us for doing wrong, as we forgive others.” (Matthew 6:12 CEV)
Must Christians even forgive the sins of fellow Christians?
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32 KJV)
Is it sinless perfection, or faith that makes us right with God?
“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.” (Romans 5:1 NLT)
Must we confess our sins?
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 NIV)
God’s Solution
What are the consequences for those who reject God’s offer of forgiveness of sin?
“Then the King will turn to those on the left and say, ‘Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his demons… And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life.” (Matthew 25:41, 46 NLT)
What is the answer?
“Now we see how God does make us acceptable to him. The Law and the Prophets tell how we become acceptable, and it isn’t by obeying the Law of Moses. God treats everyone alike. He accepts people only because they have faith in Jesus Christ…” (Romans 3:21-26 CEV)
What does God do with forgiven sins?
“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, Whose sin is covered.” (Psalm 32:1 NKJV cf. Romans 4:7)
“You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins.” (Psalm 85:2 NIV)
What is involved in God’s forgiveness?
“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” (Matthew 26:28 NIV)
Is perfect doctrine required, which no church has, or something else?
“To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” (Acts 10:43 ESV)
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” (Ephesians 1:7 NIV)
Does Jesus’ name have any bearing on this?
“I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.” (1 John 2:12 NIV)
Though we repented, turned from sinfulness to God, we still sin. As we do, we need ongoing repentance and faith in the sacrifice of Jesus. Those who refuse to repent and believe, have made a choice with terrible consequences. Repentant, we chose faith in Jesus, and God covers our sins with love and forgiveness, granting us eternal life. Which option do you choose? You decide!
“But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:3 KJV)
How was sin transferred to humanity?
“When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.” (Romans 5:12 NLT)
Inherited
Did Adam’s original sin create an environment in which everybody suffers and dies?
“For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:12-21 NLT)
How early does sin affect us?
“For I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.” (Psalm 51:5 NLT)
When Christians Sin
Christians have had a life-changing repentance or “metanoia” experience in regard to sin. Do Christians still sin even though they don’t want to?
“For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. 16 If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. 17 But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. 19 For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. 20 Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.” (Romans 7:15-20 NKJV)
The difference is that a Christian’s sin is covered.
“Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them.” (Romans 4:7-8 NIV)
Must we forgive others?
“Forgive us for doing wrong, as we forgive others.” (Matthew 6:12 CEV)
Must Christians even forgive the sins of fellow Christians?
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32 KJV)
Is it sinless perfection, or faith that makes us right with God?
“Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.” (Romans 5:1 NLT)
Must we confess our sins?
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 NIV)
God’s Solution
What are the consequences for those who reject God’s offer of forgiveness of sin?
“Then the King will turn to those on the left and say, ‘Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his demons… And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life.” (Matthew 25:41, 46 NLT)
What is the answer?
“Now we see how God does make us acceptable to him. The Law and the Prophets tell how we become acceptable, and it isn’t by obeying the Law of Moses. God treats everyone alike. He accepts people only because they have faith in Jesus Christ…” (Romans 3:21-26 CEV)
What does God do with forgiven sins?
“Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, Whose sin is covered.” (Psalm 32:1 NKJV cf. Romans 4:7)
“You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins.” (Psalm 85:2 NIV)
What is involved in God’s forgiveness?
“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” (Matthew 26:28 NIV)
Is perfect doctrine required, which no church has, or something else?
“To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” (Acts 10:43 ESV)
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace” (Ephesians 1:7 NIV)
Does Jesus’ name have any bearing on this?
“I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.” (1 John 2:12 NIV)
Though we repented, turned from sinfulness to God, we still sin. As we do, we need ongoing repentance and faith in the sacrifice of Jesus. Those who refuse to repent and believe, have made a choice with terrible consequences. Repentant, we chose faith in Jesus, and God covers our sins with love and forgiveness, granting us eternal life. Which option do you choose? You decide!
Matthew 24 Be Ready
Is our job to predict when Jesus will return or to be ready? Let’s discuss this in Matthew 24:36-44.
End of an Era
But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. (Matthew 24:36)
If Jesus is God the Son and coequal with the Father, how does He not know the day or hour? The Athanasian Creed says that Christ is "equal to the Father, as touching his Godhead; and inferior to the Father, as touching his manhood.” Jesus the man is speaking here.
When is the end of this age? Jesus predicted the fall of Jerusalem and the Gospel preached in the whole world. No one knows the day or the hour of His return, a purposefully vague prophecy. We keep watch, because we don’t know on what day our Lord will come.
Like Noah’s Day
But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. (Matthew 24:37-39)
Jesus confirms the Noah flood narrative. Does science prove it wrong? Are we sure? If the flood is a myth, how were transcontinental sedimentary rock layers formed? How were the Grand Canyon layers formed without any evidence of erosion between layers? How are whale and possum fossils found mixed together?
Jesus includes a picture of normal life before Noah’s flood. We can become deluded that we don’t need to keep vigilant watch in prayerful preparation for his return. It appears that in apocalyptic times there may also be periods of normalcy. During those times watching will be even more imperative.
Left Behind
Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. (Matthew 24:40-41)
The “left behind” theories have difficulties with this passage. Jesus compares those “taken away” with evil people swept away in Noah’s flood. The natural reading of this passage is the opposite of the “left behind” theories. Jesus gave us enough to encourage hope, and enough left out to stimulate faith.
Watch
Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. (Matthew 24:42)
A mandate in the passage is to watch. A watchman must be vigilant. In Matthew 26:41 we are to watch and pray not to give into temptation. Jesus encourages us to be ready at all times, because he is coming at an hour when we do not think he will.
Shepherds watch flocks to protect them. Jesus warns us to remain clothed (Revelation 16:15), to watch and pray that we do not fall into temptation (Mark 14:38). Unlike the five foolish virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) a good watch is always ready, on guard lest the enemy tempt them.
Jesus Like a Burglar
But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. (Matthew 24:43-44)
Jesus is like a burglar in only one way, his coming is unexpected. The only way to deal with burglars is to be ready, watching. Are we ready for Jesus? Most people will be uninterested in Jesus and unaware of the approach of his coming. Jesus challenges us to stay alert, be vigilant, ready for his coming.
Rather than becoming deluded by consumerism and materialism, let’s live out the kingdom of God here and now. We cannot know when Christ will return but He will and we must keep watch. We need to watch and pray so that when he comes we will be ready.
New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
End of an Era
But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only. (Matthew 24:36)
If Jesus is God the Son and coequal with the Father, how does He not know the day or hour? The Athanasian Creed says that Christ is "equal to the Father, as touching his Godhead; and inferior to the Father, as touching his manhood.” Jesus the man is speaking here.
When is the end of this age? Jesus predicted the fall of Jerusalem and the Gospel preached in the whole world. No one knows the day or the hour of His return, a purposefully vague prophecy. We keep watch, because we don’t know on what day our Lord will come.
Like Noah’s Day
But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. (Matthew 24:37-39)
Jesus confirms the Noah flood narrative. Does science prove it wrong? Are we sure? If the flood is a myth, how were transcontinental sedimentary rock layers formed? How were the Grand Canyon layers formed without any evidence of erosion between layers? How are whale and possum fossils found mixed together?
Jesus includes a picture of normal life before Noah’s flood. We can become deluded that we don’t need to keep vigilant watch in prayerful preparation for his return. It appears that in apocalyptic times there may also be periods of normalcy. During those times watching will be even more imperative.
Left Behind
Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left. (Matthew 24:40-41)
The “left behind” theories have difficulties with this passage. Jesus compares those “taken away” with evil people swept away in Noah’s flood. The natural reading of this passage is the opposite of the “left behind” theories. Jesus gave us enough to encourage hope, and enough left out to stimulate faith.
Watch
Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. (Matthew 24:42)
A mandate in the passage is to watch. A watchman must be vigilant. In Matthew 26:41 we are to watch and pray not to give into temptation. Jesus encourages us to be ready at all times, because he is coming at an hour when we do not think he will.
Shepherds watch flocks to protect them. Jesus warns us to remain clothed (Revelation 16:15), to watch and pray that we do not fall into temptation (Mark 14:38). Unlike the five foolish virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) a good watch is always ready, on guard lest the enemy tempt them.
Jesus Like a Burglar
But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. (Matthew 24:43-44)
Jesus is like a burglar in only one way, his coming is unexpected. The only way to deal with burglars is to be ready, watching. Are we ready for Jesus? Most people will be uninterested in Jesus and unaware of the approach of his coming. Jesus challenges us to stay alert, be vigilant, ready for his coming.
Rather than becoming deluded by consumerism and materialism, let’s live out the kingdom of God here and now. We cannot know when Christ will return but He will and we must keep watch. We need to watch and pray so that when he comes we will be ready.
New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Luke 23 Giving & Forgiving
Two great laws would solve many of humanity’s problems. In His hour of greatest trial, Jesus exemplified giving and forgiving. Let’s look at these two great legacies in Luke 23:33-43.
Forgiveness
Luke 23:33-34 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do. And they divided His garments and cast lots.”
While giving His life for all, Jesus says something remarkable, “Father forgive them.” Do we forgive others only after an apology or repentance? Jesus teaches us a new level of forgiveness, before repentance, because of a deed done in ignorance.
Sneered, Mocked, Blasphemed
Luke 23:35-39 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.” 36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.” 38 And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. 39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”
Human leaders, in and out of the church will disappoint us. We do not know what we are doing. We say of the suffering Jesus, “Let him save himself.” Human governments are devouring beasts.
The Manner of a King
World leaders are usually oriented towards taking instead of giving. Jesus is the opposite, a giver. What will a king, symbolic of all worldly leadership, do?
“He will take your sons … take your daughters … take the best… take a tenth… take your male servants, your female servants, your finest young men, and your donkeys… take a tenth of your sheep. And you will be his servants [or slaves].” (1 Samuel 8:10-17)
Only the worst tax systems take assets as well as profit. And that’s just highlighting the word “take.” Read the same passage highlighting the word “his.” Obviously, world leaders tend to be selfish, not giving. Luke’s Gospel describes Christ’s government, giving and forgiving. He gave his life and forgave our sins.
Remember Me
At the cross, many failed: Romans, Jews, and even the Disciples. One criminal did better than they all. He spoke out in faith.
Luke 23:40-43 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
That day, the thief on the cross would be received into Paradise, the third heaven (2 Corinthians 12:2-4). He was received there without baptism, communion, church rites, or good works, only the work of faith exhibited in his prayer.
Paradise literally means a garden, symbolic of the garden of Eden and heavenly joy. He was probably surprised that he would be in Paradise that very day. That is the sense that all ancient manuscripts give and contradicts the theory of our souls being asleep until the resurrection.
We are the Romans, Jews, and even the Disciples who sneered, mocked, blasphemed and failed Jesus. We are the thief on the cross. He knew his guilt, but in faith prayed, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom”? Unlike the thief, we have lives yet to live. Let’s live to give and forgive? You decide!
New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Forgiveness
Luke 23:33-34 And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left. 34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do. And they divided His garments and cast lots.”
While giving His life for all, Jesus says something remarkable, “Father forgive them.” Do we forgive others only after an apology or repentance? Jesus teaches us a new level of forgiveness, before repentance, because of a deed done in ignorance.
Sneered, Mocked, Blasphemed
Luke 23:35-39 And the people stood looking on. But even the rulers with them sneered, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is the Christ, the chosen of God.” 36 The soldiers also mocked Him, coming and offering Him sour wine, 37 and saying, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself.” 38 And an inscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. 39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.”
Human leaders, in and out of the church will disappoint us. We do not know what we are doing. We say of the suffering Jesus, “Let him save himself.” Human governments are devouring beasts.
The Manner of a King
World leaders are usually oriented towards taking instead of giving. Jesus is the opposite, a giver. What will a king, symbolic of all worldly leadership, do?
“He will take your sons … take your daughters … take the best… take a tenth… take your male servants, your female servants, your finest young men, and your donkeys… take a tenth of your sheep. And you will be his servants [or slaves].” (1 Samuel 8:10-17)
Only the worst tax systems take assets as well as profit. And that’s just highlighting the word “take.” Read the same passage highlighting the word “his.” Obviously, world leaders tend to be selfish, not giving. Luke’s Gospel describes Christ’s government, giving and forgiving. He gave his life and forgave our sins.
Remember Me
At the cross, many failed: Romans, Jews, and even the Disciples. One criminal did better than they all. He spoke out in faith.
Luke 23:40-43 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
That day, the thief on the cross would be received into Paradise, the third heaven (2 Corinthians 12:2-4). He was received there without baptism, communion, church rites, or good works, only the work of faith exhibited in his prayer.
Paradise literally means a garden, symbolic of the garden of Eden and heavenly joy. He was probably surprised that he would be in Paradise that very day. That is the sense that all ancient manuscripts give and contradicts the theory of our souls being asleep until the resurrection.
We are the Romans, Jews, and even the Disciples who sneered, mocked, blasphemed and failed Jesus. We are the thief on the cross. He knew his guilt, but in faith prayed, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom”? Unlike the thief, we have lives yet to live. Let’s live to give and forgive? You decide!
New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Bible E-Course 21a - What is Sin?
What is sin? How did sin originate? Did we inherit sin? What happens when Christians sin? Does God have a solution to sin?
Our English word sin is a translation of many different words. The original meanings have much to teach us.
Missing the Mark
A common Greek word for sin ἁμαρτία (hamartia) means to miss the mark. Thus the study of sin is called hamartiology. How did sin enter the world?
“When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.” (Romans 5:12 NLT)
One Hebrew word חָטָא (chata) also means to miss the mark or miss the way, like missing the bull’s eye on a target or taking the wrong road. We miss an ideal life because of bad decisions. Like a healthy fear of heights can prevent us falling, a healthy fear of God will keep us from going the wrong way.
“Moses said to the people, ‘Do not be afraid; for God has come in order to test you, and in order that the fear of Him may remain with you, so that you may not sin.’ " (Exodus 20:20 NASB)
Abject Moral Evil
Another Hebrew word רַע (ra) is much more serious, meaning evil, wicked or ruin.
“But Er was a wicked man in the LORD's sight, so the LORD took his life.” (Genesis 38:7 NLT)
Some human actions are just plain evil, like murder and theft. That is not judgmentalism, but a simple fact of life. Some things are just plain wrong. Another Greek word πονηρός (poneros) also refers to the more serious side of sin, moral evil.
“See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.” (Hebrews 3:12 NIV)
Morality keeps a society civilized. When moral evil prevails, anarchy results and offers little to no individual protection.
Going Astray
Another Hebrew word translated as sin שָׁגָה (shag’ah) means going astray. Can we go astray by ignorance?
“But if you sin unintentionally, and do not observe all these commandments that the LORD has spoken to Moses…” (Numbers 15:22 ESV)
Lawlessness
Another Greek word describing sin is ἀνομία (anomia), meaning lawlessness. Do Christians believe in anarchy?
“Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness.” (1 John 3:4 NIV)
All free societies must balance the twin sides of “freedom to” and “freedom from”. Freedom to do what we want must be balanced by everyone’s need to be free from harm. Can we be saved and continue to sin?
“What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.” (Romans 6:15 KJV)
Who sets us free?
“So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.” (Galatians 5:1 NLT)
Sinners
Why do some Christians say they are no longer sinners while others say they are? The word sinner has two meanings, depending on context. It can mean those still devoted to sin who are 1) pre-eminently sinful, especially wicked. In this sense, we are either categorized as saint or sinner.
“If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” (1 Peter 4:18 NIV)
The word sinner can also mean 2) not free from sin. In this sense, all of us are sinners. Notice that Paul, even after conversion, says I am, not was, a sinner.
“This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.” (1 Timothy 1:15 NKJV)
Sin covers a spectrum of wrongs from merely missing the mark to abject moral evil. It was chosen by Adam and Eve. It is inherited from a sinful environment. Only Jesus can set us free. Be set free and stay free. You decide!
Our English word sin is a translation of many different words. The original meanings have much to teach us.
Missing the Mark
A common Greek word for sin ἁμαρτία (hamartia) means to miss the mark. Thus the study of sin is called hamartiology. How did sin enter the world?
“When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.” (Romans 5:12 NLT)
One Hebrew word חָטָא (chata) also means to miss the mark or miss the way, like missing the bull’s eye on a target or taking the wrong road. We miss an ideal life because of bad decisions. Like a healthy fear of heights can prevent us falling, a healthy fear of God will keep us from going the wrong way.
“Moses said to the people, ‘Do not be afraid; for God has come in order to test you, and in order that the fear of Him may remain with you, so that you may not sin.’ " (Exodus 20:20 NASB)
Abject Moral Evil
Another Hebrew word רַע (ra) is much more serious, meaning evil, wicked or ruin.
“But Er was a wicked man in the LORD's sight, so the LORD took his life.” (Genesis 38:7 NLT)
Some human actions are just plain evil, like murder and theft. That is not judgmentalism, but a simple fact of life. Some things are just plain wrong. Another Greek word πονηρός (poneros) also refers to the more serious side of sin, moral evil.
“See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.” (Hebrews 3:12 NIV)
Morality keeps a society civilized. When moral evil prevails, anarchy results and offers little to no individual protection.
Going Astray
Another Hebrew word translated as sin שָׁגָה (shag’ah) means going astray. Can we go astray by ignorance?
“But if you sin unintentionally, and do not observe all these commandments that the LORD has spoken to Moses…” (Numbers 15:22 ESV)
Lawlessness
Another Greek word describing sin is ἀνομία (anomia), meaning lawlessness. Do Christians believe in anarchy?
“Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness.” (1 John 3:4 NIV)
All free societies must balance the twin sides of “freedom to” and “freedom from”. Freedom to do what we want must be balanced by everyone’s need to be free from harm. Can we be saved and continue to sin?
“What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.” (Romans 6:15 KJV)
Who sets us free?
“So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.” (Galatians 5:1 NLT)
Sinners
Why do some Christians say they are no longer sinners while others say they are? The word sinner has two meanings, depending on context. It can mean those still devoted to sin who are 1) pre-eminently sinful, especially wicked. In this sense, we are either categorized as saint or sinner.
“If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” (1 Peter 4:18 NIV)
The word sinner can also mean 2) not free from sin. In this sense, all of us are sinners. Notice that Paul, even after conversion, says I am, not was, a sinner.
“This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.” (1 Timothy 1:15 NKJV)
Sin covers a spectrum of wrongs from merely missing the mark to abject moral evil. It was chosen by Adam and Eve. It is inherited from a sinful environment. Only Jesus can set us free. Be set free and stay free. You decide!
Luke 21 Don't be Terrified
Jesus said the gates of hell will not destroy His Church (Matthew 16:18). He was not talking about a building. People are the Church. Let’s look at deception and endurance in Luke 21:5-19.
Not One Stone
Luke 21:5-6 Then, as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and donations, He said, 6 “These things which you see—the days will come in which not one stone shall be left upon another that shall not be thrown down.”
Jesus predicted the Temple would be destroyed. It lasted over 500 years. God closes spiritually worthless buildings. Jesus’ prediction came right after he had praised a widow for her very generous contribution to the temple fund, the proverbial widow’s mite. Church buildings are not the "forever" part of church life.
The majesty of a large church service and the intimacy of a small church are unsurpassed. Large churches are not the norm and not always lasting. A few ancient churches were large. Usually, they were small and scattered. Jesus is more impressed with the grandeur of a faithful heart.
God may destroy what we have built for our own good. The Temple once served a good purpose but it became a distraction. The Gospels help us realize how we often miss God’s perspective. To gain perspective we sit at the feet of the Master.
A tour guide once remarked that St Peter's Basilica in Rome cost most of northern Europe. Built by financial corruption, indulgences, it is a monument to sin and arrogant pride in the Church. Our traditions and structures can become monuments to our own sin and conceited arrogance which God must eventually destroy.
Jesus spoke of a permanent Temple. Christians are that house of God (Ephesians 2:18-20), the living stones (1 Peter 2:4-6) in a spiritual temple. Our hope is in a permanent structure being built by Jesus Christ. If we build with him we will not be disappointed.
Don’t be Deceived
Luke 21:7-9 So they asked Him, saying, “Teacher, but when will these things be? And what sign will there be when these things are about to take place?” 8 And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them. 9 But when you hear of wars and commotions, do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end will not come immediately.”
Let’s not be deceived by wild claims about the end times. Let’s not be frightened. In the midst of calamity and destruction, let’s stand firm on God’s foundation: Jesus, the prophets and apostles, the whole Bible. End-time theories make us lazy. Real Christianity involves steadfastness in the midst of uncertainty.
An Occasion for Testimony
Luke 21:10-13 Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. 13 But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony.
Many Christians already live in GREAT tribulation. In Afghanistan, North Korea, Somalia, Libya, Yemen, Eritrea, Nigeria, Pakistan and many other countries Christians face labor camps, imprisonment, kidnapping, deportation, home burning, torture and death. Let us pray for those who face persecution in dozens of countries today.
Every generation since the cross has thought that theirs was the last generation and none of them was right. Jesus encouraged us not to be fearful but to put our faith in him. Worry and doubt distract us from the important job of spreading the gospel message.
Patient Endurance
Luke 21:14-19 Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. 17 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. 18 But not a hair of your head shall be lost. 19 By your patience possess your souls.
By patient endurance, we will gain our lives. Martyr means testimony, a witness. 50 countries persecute Christians according to Open Doors and Voice of the Martyrs. Fake gospels abound in free countries. Jesus encouraged us to stand firm.
There are 4 main schools of prophecy: preterists (ancient fulfillment), historicists (fulfilled through history), futurists (to be fulfilled) and idealists (symbolic or spiritual fulfillment). The symbolic view can include all other views and fits the genre of apocalyptic literature. Elements of this prophecy were fulfilled in 70 AD and some will be fulfilled at Christ’s return.
Someday there will be a new heaven and a new earth. Our church buildings will be gone. To God, the only important things are you and me. Are we trusting God with patient endurance, to gain that blessed life in the eternal kingdom of God? You decide!
New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Not One Stone
Luke 21:5-6 Then, as some spoke of the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and donations, He said, 6 “These things which you see—the days will come in which not one stone shall be left upon another that shall not be thrown down.”
Jesus predicted the Temple would be destroyed. It lasted over 500 years. God closes spiritually worthless buildings. Jesus’ prediction came right after he had praised a widow for her very generous contribution to the temple fund, the proverbial widow’s mite. Church buildings are not the "forever" part of church life.
The majesty of a large church service and the intimacy of a small church are unsurpassed. Large churches are not the norm and not always lasting. A few ancient churches were large. Usually, they were small and scattered. Jesus is more impressed with the grandeur of a faithful heart.
God may destroy what we have built for our own good. The Temple once served a good purpose but it became a distraction. The Gospels help us realize how we often miss God’s perspective. To gain perspective we sit at the feet of the Master.
A tour guide once remarked that St Peter's Basilica in Rome cost most of northern Europe. Built by financial corruption, indulgences, it is a monument to sin and arrogant pride in the Church. Our traditions and structures can become monuments to our own sin and conceited arrogance which God must eventually destroy.
Jesus spoke of a permanent Temple. Christians are that house of God (Ephesians 2:18-20), the living stones (1 Peter 2:4-6) in a spiritual temple. Our hope is in a permanent structure being built by Jesus Christ. If we build with him we will not be disappointed.
Don’t be Deceived
Luke 21:7-9 So they asked Him, saying, “Teacher, but when will these things be? And what sign will there be when these things are about to take place?” 8 And He said: “Take heed that you not be deceived. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ Therefore do not go after them. 9 But when you hear of wars and commotions, do not be terrified; for these things must come to pass first, but the end will not come immediately.”
Let’s not be deceived by wild claims about the end times. Let’s not be frightened. In the midst of calamity and destruction, let’s stand firm on God’s foundation: Jesus, the prophets and apostles, the whole Bible. End-time theories make us lazy. Real Christianity involves steadfastness in the midst of uncertainty.
An Occasion for Testimony
Luke 21:10-13 Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and rulers for My name’s sake. 13 But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony.
Many Christians already live in GREAT tribulation. In Afghanistan, North Korea, Somalia, Libya, Yemen, Eritrea, Nigeria, Pakistan and many other countries Christians face labor camps, imprisonment, kidnapping, deportation, home burning, torture and death. Let us pray for those who face persecution in dozens of countries today.
Every generation since the cross has thought that theirs was the last generation and none of them was right. Jesus encouraged us not to be fearful but to put our faith in him. Worry and doubt distract us from the important job of spreading the gospel message.
Patient Endurance
Luke 21:14-19 Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer; 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. 17 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. 18 But not a hair of your head shall be lost. 19 By your patience possess your souls.
By patient endurance, we will gain our lives. Martyr means testimony, a witness. 50 countries persecute Christians according to Open Doors and Voice of the Martyrs. Fake gospels abound in free countries. Jesus encouraged us to stand firm.
There are 4 main schools of prophecy: preterists (ancient fulfillment), historicists (fulfilled through history), futurists (to be fulfilled) and idealists (symbolic or spiritual fulfillment). The symbolic view can include all other views and fits the genre of apocalyptic literature. Elements of this prophecy were fulfilled in 70 AD and some will be fulfilled at Christ’s return.
Someday there will be a new heaven and a new earth. Our church buildings will be gone. To God, the only important things are you and me. Are we trusting God with patient endurance, to gain that blessed life in the eternal kingdom of God? You decide!
New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Bible E-Course 20 - Humanity
Who are we? What are we? Why do we exist? The Greek word for mankind is ἄνθρωπος (anthropos) and studying what the Bible teaches about humanity is called biblical anthropology.
“When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—the moon and the stars you set in place—what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?” (Psalm 8:3-4 NLT)
Who are We?
The first man, Adam was named for his origin, the ground.
“Then the LORD God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.” (Genesis 2:7 NASB)
Is there something greater than our earthly stature?
“The first man was of the earth, made of dust; the second Man is the Lord from heaven… And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.” (1 Corinthians 15:47-49 KJV)
Whose image do we bear now?
“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness… So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.’ “ (Genesis 1:26-27 NIV)
Because both male and female resemble God, does it mean something more than the bodily shape or gender? Is God limited to a particular outward form?
“Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD.” (Jeremiah 23:24 KJV)
Because we have a similar but limited ability to reason and rule like God, was Adam called the son of God?
“Kenan was the son of Enosh. Enosh was the son of Seth. Seth was the son of Adam. Adam was the son of God.” (Luke 3:38 NLT)
Yet does the story end there? Is there something new?
“… and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:24 NKJV)
“Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.” (Colossians 3:10 NLT)
Apart from rare and unfortunate genetic abnormalities, we are also male and female, different but equal in intellect and status before God.
“ ‘At last!’ the man exclaimed. ‘This one is bone from my bone, and flesh from my flesh! She will be called “woman,” because she was taken from “man.” ’ This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.” (Genesis 2:23-24 NLT)
What is the Soul?
The word soul has various meanings depending on context. It can mean the whole person, as a being.
“And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” (Genesis 2:7 KJV)
The word soul can refer to the human spirit.
“Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28 NLT)
The word soul can refer to the mind.
“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB)
The word soul can refer to the psyche or seat of our desires.
“He answered, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' " (Luke 10:27 NIV)
Why are We?
What is our purpose? Let’s begin by asking, what caused the breakdown in trust between God and humanity?
“Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” (Genesis 2:15-17 KJV)
Can one bad decision bring lifelong consequences?
“The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, ‘Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?’ ‘Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,’ the woman replied. ‘It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, “You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.” ’ ‘You won’t die!’ the serpent replied to the woman. ‘God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.’ The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too.” (Genesis 3:1-6 NLT)
What did the man and woman then do?
“Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” (Genesis 3:7-8 NIV)
How did God question the man?
“Where are you?”... “Who told you that you were naked?”... “Have you eaten from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat?” (Genesis 3:9-11 NLT)
How did He question the woman?
“What have you done?” (Genesis 3:13 NLT)
How did He judge the serpent?
“Because you have done this, you are cursed…” (Genesis 3:14-15 NLT)
How did He judge the couple?
“By the sweat of your brow will you have food to eat until you return to the ground from which you were made. For you were made from dust, and to dust you will return.” (Genesis 3:16-19 NLT)
Did God provide for them even in their punishment?
“And the Lord God made clothing from animal skins for Adam and his wife… So the Lord God banished them from the Garden of Eden, and he sent Adam out to cultivate the ground from which he had been made.” (Genesis 3:21-23 NLT)
Did God still bless them in other ways?
“... As for you, be fruitful and increase in number; multiply on the earth and increase upon it.” (Genesis 9:6-7 NIV)
Was God well aware of the possibility that our first parents would sin? Does He have a plan? Why do we exist?
“For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” (Romans 8:29 NLT)
Does that plan include us bearing the image of the heavenly? Can we bear the image of God in an even higher sense, reborn?
“Just as we have borne the image of the earthy, we will also bear the image of the heavenly.” (1 Corinthians 15:49 NASB)
How will being reborn eventually affect our bodies?
“It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, ‘The first man Adam became a living being.’ The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.” (1 Corinthians 15:44-45 NKJV)
We were born earthly with the potential to be born again and bear the image of the heavenly. God loves His children and has a plan to save us from the consequences of humanity’s ongoing sins inherited from our first parents. Do you want to hear more about that plan? You decide!
“When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—the moon and the stars you set in place—what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?” (Psalm 8:3-4 NLT)
Who are We?
The first man, Adam was named for his origin, the ground.
“Then the LORD God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being.” (Genesis 2:7 NASB)
Is there something greater than our earthly stature?
“The first man was of the earth, made of dust; the second Man is the Lord from heaven… And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.” (1 Corinthians 15:47-49 KJV)
Whose image do we bear now?
“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness… So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.’ “ (Genesis 1:26-27 NIV)
Because both male and female resemble God, does it mean something more than the bodily shape or gender? Is God limited to a particular outward form?
“Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD.” (Jeremiah 23:24 KJV)
Because we have a similar but limited ability to reason and rule like God, was Adam called the son of God?
“Kenan was the son of Enosh. Enosh was the son of Seth. Seth was the son of Adam. Adam was the son of God.” (Luke 3:38 NLT)
Yet does the story end there? Is there something new?
“… and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:24 NKJV)
“Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.” (Colossians 3:10 NLT)
Apart from rare and unfortunate genetic abnormalities, we are also male and female, different but equal in intellect and status before God.
“ ‘At last!’ the man exclaimed. ‘This one is bone from my bone, and flesh from my flesh! She will be called “woman,” because she was taken from “man.” ’ This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.” (Genesis 2:23-24 NLT)
What is the Soul?
The word soul has various meanings depending on context. It can mean the whole person, as a being.
“And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” (Genesis 2:7 KJV)
The word soul can refer to the human spirit.
“Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28 NLT)
The word soul can refer to the mind.
“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB)
The word soul can refer to the psyche or seat of our desires.
“He answered, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' " (Luke 10:27 NIV)
Why are We?
What is our purpose? Let’s begin by asking, what caused the breakdown in trust between God and humanity?
“Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” (Genesis 2:15-17 KJV)
Can one bad decision bring lifelong consequences?
“The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, ‘Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?’ ‘Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,’ the woman replied. ‘It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, “You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.” ’ ‘You won’t die!’ the serpent replied to the woman. ‘God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.’ The woman was convinced. She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too.” (Genesis 3:1-6 NLT)
What did the man and woman then do?
“Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden.” (Genesis 3:7-8 NIV)
How did God question the man?
“Where are you?”... “Who told you that you were naked?”... “Have you eaten from the tree whose fruit I commanded you not to eat?” (Genesis 3:9-11 NLT)
How did He question the woman?
“What have you done?” (Genesis 3:13 NLT)
How did He judge the serpent?
“Because you have done this, you are cursed…” (Genesis 3:14-15 NLT)
How did He judge the couple?
“By the sweat of your brow will you have food to eat until you return to the ground from which you were made. For you were made from dust, and to dust you will return.” (Genesis 3:16-19 NLT)
Did God provide for them even in their punishment?
“And the Lord God made clothing from animal skins for Adam and his wife… So the Lord God banished them from the Garden of Eden, and he sent Adam out to cultivate the ground from which he had been made.” (Genesis 3:21-23 NLT)
Did God still bless them in other ways?
“... As for you, be fruitful and increase in number; multiply on the earth and increase upon it.” (Genesis 9:6-7 NIV)
Was God well aware of the possibility that our first parents would sin? Does He have a plan? Why do we exist?
“For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” (Romans 8:29 NLT)
Does that plan include us bearing the image of the heavenly? Can we bear the image of God in an even higher sense, reborn?
“Just as we have borne the image of the earthy, we will also bear the image of the heavenly.” (1 Corinthians 15:49 NASB)
How will being reborn eventually affect our bodies?
“It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, ‘The first man Adam became a living being.’ The last Adam became a life-giving spirit.” (1 Corinthians 15:44-45 NKJV)
We were born earthly with the potential to be born again and bear the image of the heavenly. God loves His children and has a plan to save us from the consequences of humanity’s ongoing sins inherited from our first parents. Do you want to hear more about that plan? You decide!
Bible E-Course 19b - Revelation 18-22
Revelation reveals a righteous king and kingdom to come. But first, will this world’s Babylonian system end?
“He cried with a mighty voice, saying, ‘Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great…” (Revelation 18:2a WEB)
Are kings and merchants alike corrupt?
“Babylon's evil and immoral wine has made all nations drunk. Every king on earth has slept with her, and every merchant on earth is rich because of her evil desires.” (Revelation 18:3 CEV)
Should God’s people leave Babylon?
“Then I heard another voice from heaven say, “Come out of her, my people, so that you don’t take part in her sins and don’t receive any of her plagues.” (Revelation 18:4 CEB)
Will this debauched realm collapse quickly?
“Her sufferings will frighten them, and they will stand at a distance and say, ‘Pity that great and powerful city! Pity Babylon! In a single hour her judgment has come.’ ” (Revelation 18:10 CEV)
Will merchants mourn?
“The merchants of the earth will also weep and mourn over her, because no one buys their merchandise any longer” (Revelation 18:11 HCSB)
Will she engage in human trafficking?
“cinnamon, spice, incense, perfume, frankincense, wine, olive oil, fine flour, wheat, cattle, sheep, and cargo of horses, carriages, slaves, and human lives.” (Revelation 18:13 NASB)
Is righteous capitalism very different to unethical Babylonian capitalism? Will there be joy when its corrupt reign ends?
“After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out, ‘Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for his judgments are true and just; for he has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality, and has avenged on her the blood of his servants.’ ” (Revelation 19:1-2 ESV)
Will Jesus finally marry His Bride the Church?
“Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready” (Revelation 19:7 ESV)
What will the Bride wear?
“And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.” (Revelation 19:8 KJV)
No longer on a donkey (Matthew 21:1-7), what will Jesus ride?
“Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse. Its rider is called Faithful and True, and He judges and makes war in righteousness.” (Revelation 19:11 HCSB)
Will the arch deceiver be bound?
“He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:2 NIV)
If we are saved by faith, what relevance do good works have?
“And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.” (Revelation 20:12 NKJV)
What else will be new?
“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone.” (Revelation 21:1 NLT)
Was this also foretold by Old Testament prophets (Isaiah 65:17; Ezekiel 40-48; Matthew 19:28)? How does Revelation describe it?
“I saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared like a bride adorned for her husband. I heard a loud voice out of heaven saying, ‘Behold, God’s dwelling is with people, and he will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.’ ” (Revelation 21:2-3 WEB)
Will there be any more reason for sorrow?
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more. There will be no mourning, crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4 CEB)
How will overcomers be blessed?
“All who are victorious [overcome, conquer] will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children.” (Revelation 21:7 NLT)
What is the joyful conclusion of all things?
“The angel showed me a river that was crystal clear, and its waters gave life. The river came from the throne where God and the Lamb were seated. Then it flowed down the middle of the city's main street. On each side of the river are trees that grow a different kind of fruit each month of the year. The fruit gives life, and the leaves are used as medicine to heal the nations.” (Revelation 22:1-2 CEV)
Will there come a time when we will no longer even try to bring men to repentance?
“Let the evildoer still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and the holy still be holy.” (Revelation 22:11 ESV)
We are saved by faith, but how is our reward determined?
“Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to reward each one as his work deserves.” (Revelation 22:12 NASB)
Who will not be there?
“Outside are the dogs, the drug users and spell-casters, those who commit sexual immorality, the murderers, the idolaters, and all who love and practice deception.” (Revelation 22:15 CEB)
Is explaining technical details important (Nehemiah 8:7-8) being careful not to add anything not supported by the text? Should we take anything away from these prophecies or take them out of our lectionaries?
“Here is my warning for everyone who hears the prophecies in this book: If you add anything to them, God will make you suffer all the terrible troubles written in this book. If you take anything away from these prophecies, God will not let you have part in the life-giving tree and in the holy city described in this book.” (Revelation 22:18-19 CEV)
We have seen the mysteries of Christ revealed in symbolism, the end of all evil and the dawning of a new era of supreme joy. May our Lord and Savior come quickly! Do we choose the lake of fire or the blessed eternity revealed in these prophecies? You decide!
“He cried with a mighty voice, saying, ‘Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great…” (Revelation 18:2a WEB)
Are kings and merchants alike corrupt?
“Babylon's evil and immoral wine has made all nations drunk. Every king on earth has slept with her, and every merchant on earth is rich because of her evil desires.” (Revelation 18:3 CEV)
Should God’s people leave Babylon?
“Then I heard another voice from heaven say, “Come out of her, my people, so that you don’t take part in her sins and don’t receive any of her plagues.” (Revelation 18:4 CEB)
Will this debauched realm collapse quickly?
“Her sufferings will frighten them, and they will stand at a distance and say, ‘Pity that great and powerful city! Pity Babylon! In a single hour her judgment has come.’ ” (Revelation 18:10 CEV)
Will merchants mourn?
“The merchants of the earth will also weep and mourn over her, because no one buys their merchandise any longer” (Revelation 18:11 HCSB)
Will she engage in human trafficking?
“cinnamon, spice, incense, perfume, frankincense, wine, olive oil, fine flour, wheat, cattle, sheep, and cargo of horses, carriages, slaves, and human lives.” (Revelation 18:13 NASB)
Is righteous capitalism very different to unethical Babylonian capitalism? Will there be joy when its corrupt reign ends?
“After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in heaven, crying out, ‘Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for his judgments are true and just; for he has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality, and has avenged on her the blood of his servants.’ ” (Revelation 19:1-2 ESV)
Will Jesus finally marry His Bride the Church?
“Let us rejoice and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready” (Revelation 19:7 ESV)
What will the Bride wear?
“And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.” (Revelation 19:8 KJV)
No longer on a donkey (Matthew 21:1-7), what will Jesus ride?
“Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse. Its rider is called Faithful and True, and He judges and makes war in righteousness.” (Revelation 19:11 HCSB)
Will the arch deceiver be bound?
“He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:2 NIV)
If we are saved by faith, what relevance do good works have?
“And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.” (Revelation 20:12 NKJV)
What else will be new?
“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone.” (Revelation 21:1 NLT)
Was this also foretold by Old Testament prophets (Isaiah 65:17; Ezekiel 40-48; Matthew 19:28)? How does Revelation describe it?
“I saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared like a bride adorned for her husband. I heard a loud voice out of heaven saying, ‘Behold, God’s dwelling is with people, and he will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.’ ” (Revelation 21:2-3 WEB)
Will there be any more reason for sorrow?
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more. There will be no mourning, crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:4 CEB)
How will overcomers be blessed?
“All who are victorious [overcome, conquer] will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children.” (Revelation 21:7 NLT)
What is the joyful conclusion of all things?
“The angel showed me a river that was crystal clear, and its waters gave life. The river came from the throne where God and the Lamb were seated. Then it flowed down the middle of the city's main street. On each side of the river are trees that grow a different kind of fruit each month of the year. The fruit gives life, and the leaves are used as medicine to heal the nations.” (Revelation 22:1-2 CEV)
Will there come a time when we will no longer even try to bring men to repentance?
“Let the evildoer still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and the holy still be holy.” (Revelation 22:11 ESV)
We are saved by faith, but how is our reward determined?
“Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to reward each one as his work deserves.” (Revelation 22:12 NASB)
Who will not be there?
“Outside are the dogs, the drug users and spell-casters, those who commit sexual immorality, the murderers, the idolaters, and all who love and practice deception.” (Revelation 22:15 CEB)
Is explaining technical details important (Nehemiah 8:7-8) being careful not to add anything not supported by the text? Should we take anything away from these prophecies or take them out of our lectionaries?
“Here is my warning for everyone who hears the prophecies in this book: If you add anything to them, God will make you suffer all the terrible troubles written in this book. If you take anything away from these prophecies, God will not let you have part in the life-giving tree and in the holy city described in this book.” (Revelation 22:18-19 CEV)
We have seen the mysteries of Christ revealed in symbolism, the end of all evil and the dawning of a new era of supreme joy. May our Lord and Savior come quickly! Do we choose the lake of fire or the blessed eternity revealed in these prophecies? You decide!
Luke 19:1-10 A Reject Saved
Is there any hope for someone who has been rejected by the community? Let’s look at the change that allowed a man with a bad reputation to receive eternal salvation in Luke 19:1-10.
Taxes
Before we examine the chief tax collector, we need to speak about taxes. In principle they are not wrong. God’s law in ancient Israel provided for the collection of tithes and offerings, which were used not only for worship purposes, but also for welfare for the poor and needy. In the New Testament, Jesus encouraged giving to Caesar. The problem with our friend Zachaeus, was that tax collectors were notorious for cheating the people, by not only helping the Romans collect oppressive taxes way beyond what would be ethical, but they also took money on the side for themselves.
Dirty Money
Do we know someone in our community who is lost and Jesus is calling them?
“Then Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 2 Now behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. 3 And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not because of the crowd, for he was of short stature. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him, for He was going to pass that way.” (Luke 19:1-4 NKJV)
Zacchaeus had become “very rich” as a chief tax collector for Roman occupiers. He knew he was despised because it was dirty money. Yet, he wanted to see Jesus, who taught how hard it was for a wealthy person to enter the kingdom (Luke 18:24-25). Zacchaeus was short and despite the obvious embarrassment, he climbed a tree.
Your House
Why would Jesus invite himself to the home of a notorious crook?
“And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and saw him, and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.’ 6 So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully.” (Luke 19:5-6 NKJV)
Jesus wanted to be the guest of this despised crook today. Zacchaeus was immediately responsive and filled with joy. Jesus’ kingdom plans included a “notorious sinner.” Zacchaeus is genuinely receptive and ready to embrace the values of the kingdom of God. The bigger the sinner the more thankful.
Salvation
What would be the reaction of the community? What would be the reaction of this notorious con man?
“But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, ‘He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner.’ 8 Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.’ 9 And Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; 10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.’ ” (Luke 19:7-10 NKJV)
Zacchaeus was happy, the crowd grumbled, because he had collaborated with the Roman occupation. They could not see what Jesus saw. Zacchaeus responded to Jesus with the fruits of repentance within his heart, righting wrongs and giving to the poor. Jesus said Zacchaeus’ behavior was that of a true child of Abraham.
Zacchaeus means the righteous one. His name was a prophecy of his life as Jesus would make it. All our righteousness comes from God. Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus, but Jesus had already seen him, and a rich man entered the kingdom of God. Jesus can make the impossible possible.
Zacchaeus repented of his greed and began giving. Do we grumble about Jesus’ grace to those who have committed gross sins? Is Zacchaeus welcome in our churches? Jesus came to call the lost. Do we shut the lost out of the church? A rescue came to Zacchaeus, from greed to giving.
Is there any hope for someone who has totally ruined his reputation in the community? Salvation came to Zacchaeus. Salvation has also come to you and me. Jesus wants to be a guest in our homes today. Is He welcome?
Taxes
Before we examine the chief tax collector, we need to speak about taxes. In principle they are not wrong. God’s law in ancient Israel provided for the collection of tithes and offerings, which were used not only for worship purposes, but also for welfare for the poor and needy. In the New Testament, Jesus encouraged giving to Caesar. The problem with our friend Zachaeus, was that tax collectors were notorious for cheating the people, by not only helping the Romans collect oppressive taxes way beyond what would be ethical, but they also took money on the side for themselves.
Dirty Money
Do we know someone in our community who is lost and Jesus is calling them?
“Then Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 2 Now behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. 3 And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not because of the crowd, for he was of short stature. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him, for He was going to pass that way.” (Luke 19:1-4 NKJV)
Zacchaeus had become “very rich” as a chief tax collector for Roman occupiers. He knew he was despised because it was dirty money. Yet, he wanted to see Jesus, who taught how hard it was for a wealthy person to enter the kingdom (Luke 18:24-25). Zacchaeus was short and despite the obvious embarrassment, he climbed a tree.
Your House
Why would Jesus invite himself to the home of a notorious crook?
“And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and saw him, and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.’ 6 So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully.” (Luke 19:5-6 NKJV)
Jesus wanted to be the guest of this despised crook today. Zacchaeus was immediately responsive and filled with joy. Jesus’ kingdom plans included a “notorious sinner.” Zacchaeus is genuinely receptive and ready to embrace the values of the kingdom of God. The bigger the sinner the more thankful.
Salvation
What would be the reaction of the community? What would be the reaction of this notorious con man?
“But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, ‘He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner.’ 8 Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.’ 9 And Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; 10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.’ ” (Luke 19:7-10 NKJV)
Zacchaeus was happy, the crowd grumbled, because he had collaborated with the Roman occupation. They could not see what Jesus saw. Zacchaeus responded to Jesus with the fruits of repentance within his heart, righting wrongs and giving to the poor. Jesus said Zacchaeus’ behavior was that of a true child of Abraham.
Zacchaeus means the righteous one. His name was a prophecy of his life as Jesus would make it. All our righteousness comes from God. Zacchaeus wanted to see Jesus, but Jesus had already seen him, and a rich man entered the kingdom of God. Jesus can make the impossible possible.
Zacchaeus repented of his greed and began giving. Do we grumble about Jesus’ grace to those who have committed gross sins? Is Zacchaeus welcome in our churches? Jesus came to call the lost. Do we shut the lost out of the church? A rescue came to Zacchaeus, from greed to giving.
Is there any hope for someone who has totally ruined his reputation in the community? Salvation came to Zacchaeus. Salvation has also come to you and me. Jesus wants to be a guest in our homes today. Is He welcome?
Bible E-Course 19A - Revelation 1-17
Students of Revelation fall into four broad categories, those who believe it’s mostly 1) past history, 2) foretells Christian history, 3) mostly future or 4) symbolic. Revelation is apocalyptic literature, a symbolic genre.
Who and what does this book reveal?
“The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place…” (Revelation 1:1 ESV)
Should a church avoid this book?
“God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near.” (Revelation 1:3 NLT)
As symbolic literature, Revelation is mysterious by design. Should all churches listen carefully?
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Revelation 2:7, 11; 17; 29; 3:6, 13, 22 NKJV)
The seven churches are loveless, persecuted, heretical, sexually immoral, dead, faithful, and materialistic. Is overcoming still possible in all seven churches?
To “the one who conquers [overcomes]…” (Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 17 ESV)
What did John see in heaven?
“Around the throne were twenty-four thrones; and upon the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white garments, and golden crowns on their heads.” (Revelation 4:4 NASB)
Who opens the secret seals?
“I saw that the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying, as with a voice of thunder, ‘Come and see!’ ” (Revelation 6:1 WEB)
Where are Christian martyrs?
“When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony.” (Revelation 6:9 NLT)
Christians are sealed by the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 1:22), a mark or inscription of belonging (2 Timothy 2:19), a seal of holiness (Exodus 39:30). What does an angel say?
“I saw another angel coming up from the east, holding the seal of the living God… He said, ‘Don’t damage the earth, the sea, or the trees until we have put a seal on the foreheads of those who serve our God.’ ” (Revelation 7:2-3 CEB)
Are overcomers from all nations dressed in white, a symbol of righteousness?
“After this I looked, and there was a vast multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, which no one could number, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were robed in white with palm branches in their hands.” (Revelation 7:9 HCSB)
Who has been the ultimate source of humanity’s self-destructive ways?
“Their king is the angel from the bottomless pit; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek, Apollyon—the Destroyer.” (Revelation 9:11 NLT)
How large will the evil army be? There are currently not that many horses in the entire world, so what could this symbolize?
“By listening, I could tell there were more than 200,000,000 war horses.” (Revelation 9:16 CEV)
Could modern weapons cause such a large death toll?
“By these three plagues a third of humankind was killed: by the fire, smoke, and sulfur coming out of their mouths.” (Revelation 9:18 CEB)
Do these disasters result in the repentance of humanity?
“The rest of humankind, who weren’t killed by these plagues, didn’t change their hearts and lives and turn from their handiwork…” (Revelation 9:20a CEB)
Humanity’s biggest lies will be exposed (Romans 1:18-32). Will time to repent run out?
“There will be no more delay!” (Revelation 10:6b NIV)
Beasts symbolize oppressive human kingdoms (Daniel 7). Will their rule come to an end?
“And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.” (Revelation 11:15 KJV)
Will the nations be angry or repent?
“The nations were filled with wrath, but now the time of your wrath has come… It is time to destroy all who have caused destruction on the earth.” (Revelation 11:18 NLT)
Will there be a faithful remnant?
“And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” (Revelation 12:17 KJV)
Who will worship this worldly political power?
“All those who live on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name was not written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who was slaughtered.” (Revelation 13:8 HCSB)
Is the next beast a false prophet, who looks innocent but speaks evil?
“Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke as a dragon.” (Revelation 13:11 NASB)
Do we judge false prophets by their miracles or their lying words (Deuteronomy 13)?
“He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.” (Revelation 13:13 NKJV)
Are miracles surrounding religious statues anything new?
“He was then permitted to give life to this statue so that it could speak. Then the statue of the beast commanded that anyone refusing to worship it must die.” (Revelation 13:15 NLT)
What will happen to this tyrannical Babylonian system?
“Another angel, a second one, followed and said, ‘Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She made all the nations drink the wine of her lustful passion.’ ” (Revelation 14:8 CEB)
Is God angry with this brutal rule?
“And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.” (Revelation 16:1 KJV)
The scarlet woman is rich, royal, filthy with sin and carries what looks like a communion cup but full of abominations. What is on her forehead?
“And on her forehead a name was written: Mystery, Babylon The Great, The Mother Of Harlots and of the Abominations of the Earth.” (Revelation 17:5 NKJV)
Like the religion of ancient Babylon, she exploits and oppresses people. How much influence does she have?
“Then the angel said to me, “The waters you saw, where the prostitute sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations and languages.” (Revelation 17:15 NIV)
As the mark or seal of the beast is in people’s foreheads and hands, God’s words are a sign or mark in the hands and foreheads, in thoughts and deeds (Exodus 13:9, 16; Deuteronomy 6:8; 11:18; Jeremiah 31:33; Romans 2:15; Hebrews 8:10; 10:16) and we are sealed by the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 4:30). Which will you choose, the mark of the beast or the seal of the Holy Spirit? You decide!
Who and what does this book reveal?
“The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place…” (Revelation 1:1 ESV)
Should a church avoid this book?
“God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near.” (Revelation 1:3 NLT)
As symbolic literature, Revelation is mysterious by design. Should all churches listen carefully?
“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Revelation 2:7, 11; 17; 29; 3:6, 13, 22 NKJV)
The seven churches are loveless, persecuted, heretical, sexually immoral, dead, faithful, and materialistic. Is overcoming still possible in all seven churches?
To “the one who conquers [overcomes]…” (Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 26; 3:5, 12, 17 ESV)
What did John see in heaven?
“Around the throne were twenty-four thrones; and upon the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white garments, and golden crowns on their heads.” (Revelation 4:4 NASB)
Who opens the secret seals?
“I saw that the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying, as with a voice of thunder, ‘Come and see!’ ” (Revelation 6:1 WEB)
Where are Christian martyrs?
“When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony.” (Revelation 6:9 NLT)
Christians are sealed by the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 1:22), a mark or inscription of belonging (2 Timothy 2:19), a seal of holiness (Exodus 39:30). What does an angel say?
“I saw another angel coming up from the east, holding the seal of the living God… He said, ‘Don’t damage the earth, the sea, or the trees until we have put a seal on the foreheads of those who serve our God.’ ” (Revelation 7:2-3 CEB)
Are overcomers from all nations dressed in white, a symbol of righteousness?
“After this I looked, and there was a vast multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, which no one could number, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were robed in white with palm branches in their hands.” (Revelation 7:9 HCSB)
Who has been the ultimate source of humanity’s self-destructive ways?
“Their king is the angel from the bottomless pit; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek, Apollyon—the Destroyer.” (Revelation 9:11 NLT)
How large will the evil army be? There are currently not that many horses in the entire world, so what could this symbolize?
“By listening, I could tell there were more than 200,000,000 war horses.” (Revelation 9:16 CEV)
Could modern weapons cause such a large death toll?
“By these three plagues a third of humankind was killed: by the fire, smoke, and sulfur coming out of their mouths.” (Revelation 9:18 CEB)
Do these disasters result in the repentance of humanity?
“The rest of humankind, who weren’t killed by these plagues, didn’t change their hearts and lives and turn from their handiwork…” (Revelation 9:20a CEB)
Humanity’s biggest lies will be exposed (Romans 1:18-32). Will time to repent run out?
“There will be no more delay!” (Revelation 10:6b NIV)
Beasts symbolize oppressive human kingdoms (Daniel 7). Will their rule come to an end?
“And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.” (Revelation 11:15 KJV)
Will the nations be angry or repent?
“The nations were filled with wrath, but now the time of your wrath has come… It is time to destroy all who have caused destruction on the earth.” (Revelation 11:18 NLT)
Will there be a faithful remnant?
“And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” (Revelation 12:17 KJV)
Who will worship this worldly political power?
“All those who live on the earth will worship him, everyone whose name was not written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb who was slaughtered.” (Revelation 13:8 HCSB)
Is the next beast a false prophet, who looks innocent but speaks evil?
“Then I saw another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spoke as a dragon.” (Revelation 13:11 NASB)
Do we judge false prophets by their miracles or their lying words (Deuteronomy 13)?
“He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men.” (Revelation 13:13 NKJV)
Are miracles surrounding religious statues anything new?
“He was then permitted to give life to this statue so that it could speak. Then the statue of the beast commanded that anyone refusing to worship it must die.” (Revelation 13:15 NLT)
What will happen to this tyrannical Babylonian system?
“Another angel, a second one, followed and said, ‘Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She made all the nations drink the wine of her lustful passion.’ ” (Revelation 14:8 CEB)
Is God angry with this brutal rule?
“And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.” (Revelation 16:1 KJV)
The scarlet woman is rich, royal, filthy with sin and carries what looks like a communion cup but full of abominations. What is on her forehead?
“And on her forehead a name was written: Mystery, Babylon The Great, The Mother Of Harlots and of the Abominations of the Earth.” (Revelation 17:5 NKJV)
Like the religion of ancient Babylon, she exploits and oppresses people. How much influence does she have?
“Then the angel said to me, “The waters you saw, where the prostitute sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations and languages.” (Revelation 17:15 NIV)
As the mark or seal of the beast is in people’s foreheads and hands, God’s words are a sign or mark in the hands and foreheads, in thoughts and deeds (Exodus 13:9, 16; Deuteronomy 6:8; 11:18; Jeremiah 31:33; Romans 2:15; Hebrews 8:10; 10:16) and we are sealed by the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 4:30). Which will you choose, the mark of the beast or the seal of the Holy Spirit? You decide!
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