Bible E-Course 7A - The Age of Baptism

We don’t need to be divided over the topic of baptism. Biblically, there is room for our preferences without disunity, if we ask simple questions. What does the Bible really require? What does the Bible leave up to us? Let’s look more deeply into baptism than narrow ideas may allow.

Age of Baptism

Should we follow Jesus and be baptized at age 30? His example was not a mandate.

“Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and … Jesus, when he began his ministry, was about thirty years of age …” (Luke 3:21-23 ESV)

When we understand the broader implications of baptism, we will later see that Jesus was actually fulfilling an ordination rite, partly. Should we legalistically follow Peter and be baptized at an age when we can repent?

“ ‘Repent,’ Peter said to them, ‘and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’ ” (Acts 2:38 HCSB)

Should we do like many Christians and ignore the next verse?

“This promise is for you, your children, and for all who are far away—as many as the Lord our God invites.” (Acts 2:39 CEB)

Whole Households

Should we ignore the possibility of an infant being baptized in at least one of several whole families?

“I did baptize the family of Stephanas, but I don't remember if I baptized anyone else.” (1 Corinthians 1:16 CEV)

“And he told us how he had seen the angel stand in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon who is called Peter; he will declare to you a message by which you will be saved, you and all your household.’ ” (Acts 11:13-14 ESV)

“After she and her household were baptized, she urged us, ‘If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house.’ And she persuaded us… So they said, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.’ … He took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds. Right away he and all his family were baptized.” (Acts 16:15, 31, 33 HCSB)

Is the Bible completely silent on infant baptism or are there precedents?

All Israel

What about everyone, including infants, being baptized into Moses in the Red Sea?

“Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea” (1 Corinthians 10:1-2 KJV)

What about the association of circumcision with baptism? Circumcision was performed both on adults and infants.

“In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off when you were circumcised by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:11-12 NIV)

Discipleship

Many parents treat baptism superstitiously, their children are baptized and they never come back to church. They ignore Christ’s mandate for discipleship after baptism. In the Great Commission, Jesus mentioned the importance of teaching. A main part of church life after baptism and church services ought to be primarily teaching.

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20 NIV)

Does Jesus care about including little children in church life? Would this include teaching them too?

“Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, ‘Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.’ And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.” (Mark 10:13–16 NKJV)

Did God deliberately avoid any age mandate for baptism, so that it becomes a ceremony of grace rather than law? Nowhere is a specific age required or banned from baptism. Repentance is required somewhere along the journey, but not necessarily prior to an infant baptism. It is an option that Jesus did not specifically ban or endorse.

If you have never been baptized, will you have a change of heart and mind, believe the good news about the reign of God, and be baptized with the laying on of hands to receive the Holy Spirit. You decide!

Bible E-Course 6D - Works or Not?

Doing good works is a very controversial topic among Christians, because they are either overemphasized or underemphasized. It’s hard to find the balance, but the scriptures are the best help, if we’ll listen to them instead of blindly accepting the prejudices of men. There are several factors to consider. On the one hand belief in Jesus is a work.

“This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” (John 6:29b ESV)

Consensus

The Protestant Reformation emphasized a difference of opinion between Catholics and Protestants on this issue. Yet, if we look closely, there may not be as much difference as we assume.

The Catholic Encyclopedia states, “Faith shown by works has ever been the doctrine of the Catholic Church”. Calvin wrote, “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone”. Luther is reputed to have written, “We are not saved by works; but if there be no works, there must be something amiss with faith.” An Eastern Orthodox comment is, “Rather than separate faith and works, Jesus closely united the two as being definitive to Christian life. That’s the undeniable implication of His great discourse we call ‘Sermon on the Mount.’ ”

Faith without Works

James was inspired to write that saving faith is alway accompanied by some kind of good works such as helping the needy.

“What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 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.

“But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works.’ Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.’ And he was called the friend of God. You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.

“Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” (James 2:14-26 NKJV)

Does James contradict the other apostles or complement them? Seemingly contradictory comments in the Bible are two facets of the same jewel. There are no contradictions in scripture.

Salvation & Reward

There is also a difference between salvation and reward. We are saved by faith, but our reward in eternity is lesser or greater, measured by our good works here and now.

“For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.” (Matthew 16:27 KJV)

Should a Christian ignore good works?

“but in every nation he who fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:35 WEB)

“... I preached to those in Damascus first, and to those in Jerusalem and in all the region of Judea, and to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works worthy of repentance.” (Acts 26:20 HCSB)

The Law

Are good works the same as works of the law, obeying the letter of all 613 commandments in the Old Testament? Is there a difference between good works and works of the law?

“Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on obeying the law. It is based on faith.” (Romans 3:27 NLT)

Is there a kind of righteousness apart from works of the law?

“David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the one to whom God credits righteousness apart from works” (Romans 4:6 NIV).

What about the works of the law?

“yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.” (Galatians 2:16 ESV)

Righteous by Faith

What is righteousness for the Christian?

“But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference” (Romans 3:21-22 NKJV)

“So what are we going to say? Gentiles who weren’t striving for righteousness achieved righteousness, the righteousness that comes from faith.” (Romans 9:30 CEB)

Living Faith

What then was James talking about? Was it that a fruit of saving faith is good works? Was it that a living faith is alive with good works? How else can we explain the day of judgment?

“I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and they opened books. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged out of the things which were written in the books, according to their works.” (Revelation 20:12 WEB)

How can we harmonize all these views about faith and works? Can we say that faith without works is dead because good works done with a pure motive are evidence of our participation in salvation and not the cause of it? Maybe this is where Catholics, Orthodox and Protestants agree.

Will you have a change of heart and mind, turning from sin to God, and have faith in Jesus, a living faith alive with good works? You decide!

Bible E-Course 6C - What Faith

As we repent from sin and turn to God, what must also be included?

“I have had one message for Jews and Greeks alike—the necessity of repenting from sin and turning to God, and of having faith in our Lord Jesus.” (Acts 20:21 NLT)

Repentance is also from unbelief to faith. Are good works evidence of repentance? What did Paul say?

“but declared first to them of Damascus, at Jerusalem, and throughout all the country of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, doing works worthy of repentance.” (Acts 26:20 WEB)

We are not saved by good works, but saved for good works.

Faith and Belief

What’s the difference between belief and faith? They are related. We’re not interested in a modern dictionary definition that is influenced by the ideas of a corrupt world. We need a lexicon, because we want to know how those words are used in various contexts in the Bible.

In biblical Greek, a word translated as belief (pisteuó) means to have faith, to trust or have confidence (in God). A word translated as faith (pistis) is similar, because it means faith or belief, but includes the concept of faithfulness. Godly faith is higher than mere human belief, because it comes from God. What is faith?

“Now faith is the certainty of things hoped for, a proof of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1 NASB)

Source

What is the ultimate source of this kind of faith?

“... Use good sense and measure yourself by the amount of faith that God has given you.” (Romans 12:3 CEV)

Faith or faithfulness comes from the Holy Spirit.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control…” (Galatians 5:22-23 CEB)

Faith is also built up by hearing. So if we want to grow in faith, we need to hear from faithful preachers, who actually believe that the whole Bible is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16). A Christ-centered message is the most important. We can also hear the Bible read, or read the Bible aloud to ourselves, an ancient practice.

“So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.” (Romans 10:17 NLT)

The original Greek literally says, “hearing through the word of Christ,” so listening to Christ-centered instruction is important. How do we discern that? If a sermon quotes Jesus and expounds upon what Jesus taught, we can be more sure that we are hearing through the word of Christ. However, if Jesus is quoted, but the preacher springboards to an unrelated subject entirely, or creates an application that is mere man-made rules, then we should be wary that the word of Christ is being misused.

Ancient Faith

Faith is not just a New Testament phenomenon. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Rahab, Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel and the prophets all had faith (Hebrews 11). Just as they had very different circumstances to us, so too do Christians believe a wide variety of different non-essential doctrines, but can have the same faith in the weightier matters. The patriarchs and matriarchs understood the weightier matters even in the Old Testament.

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You pay a tenth of mint, dill, and cumin, yet you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. These things should have been done without neglecting the others.” (Matthew 23:23 HCSB)

How Much Faith

Even with little faith we can do great things.

“... If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.” (Matthew 17:20 KJV)

Justified

Since nobody can keep the law perfectly, faith is the only key. It renders us just, innocent.

“Therefore, since we have been justified [made innocent] by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:1-2 ESV)

The Original Faith

Is the original faith in traditions of post apostolic church fathers, much much later Protestant doctrines, modern emotional experiences, or any other thing that came along after the faith written about in the New Testament? Or, should we contend for the faith that was already there when Jude wrote?

“Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints.” (Jude 3 NASB)

There is nothing wrong with seeking the advice of early church fathers, Protestant reformers, or others who have had faith in Christ, but we must be wise when they deviate from or add to the God-breathed words in the Bible. We need life-long personal study of the Bible, like the Bereans.

“Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” (Acts 17:11 NIV)

Let’s pray for God to grant us repentance and faith. Will you turn from sin to God and believe the good news of God’s reign? You decide!

Bible E-Course 6B - Repentance

Two main components of New Testament preaching are repentance and faith. Let’s examine how they go together.

Repent & Believe

What do repentance and belief have to do with salvation? Feeling sorry for ourselves but refusing to change does nothing. But, grief with repentance leads to salvation.

“For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief [worldly sorrow] produces death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10 ESV)

Trust in Jesus is the way to be saved?

“They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.’ ” (Acts 16:31 NIV)

If we lack salvation faith where do we go to get it?

“for by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8 WEB).

Does Jesus’ resurrection play a part?

“... we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.” (Romans 5:10 NKJV)

Many churches today are willing to talk about faith but not repentance. Instead, congregations are coddled like spoiled babies, because they can’t handle the truth and prefer a worldly message of so-called “love” for neighbor but disobedience to God. Let’s look at repentance. It was John’s message.

“In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ ” (Matthew 3:1-2 ESV)

John did not encourage people to turn to the vain traditions of men, but to turn to God and put their faith in Jesus.

“Paul replied, ‘John baptized people so they would turn to God. But he also told them someone else was coming, and they should put their faith in him. Jesus is the one that John was talking about.’ ” (Acts 19:4 CEV)

Repentance was also Jesus’ message.

“Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.’ ” (Mark 1:14-15 NKJV)

Notice that both John and Jesus coupled repentance with believing the good news.

What is Repentance?

What does the word repent mean? In Greek it is the word metanoeó and literally means a change of heart and mind. Does it stop there or are fruits required? In Hebrew the word shub (pronounced shoob) means to turn back or return, that is to God. Another Hebrew word is nacham (pronounced nah-kham) meaning to be sorry. These were key topics in Jesus’ preaching.

“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:17 KJV)

It remained a main theme of Peter’s preaching.

“Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’ ” (Acts 2:38 NASB)

Nowhere in the Bible is an exact mode or age of baptism specified or demanded. People often surmise a mode or age, but neither is explicitly commanded. For instance, at Jesus’ baptism, because He came up away from the water, some assume that means He was immersed. But, the water could have been ankle deep and He came up the river bank. Water is used in baptism in some manner. That’s it!

Turn

When speaking of repentance, Peter was inspired to include turning to God.

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord” (Acts 3:19 NIV).

Repentance includes a change of direction, turning FROM something and TO something. We turn from sin to God, from the ways that lead to death to the way of eternal life.

“When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, ‘Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.’ ” (Acts 11:18 NKJV)

God’s Kindness

To whom should we be grateful for the ability to repent?

“Or do you have contempt for the riches of God’s generosity, tolerance, and patience? Don’t you realize that God’s kindness is supposed to lead you to change your heart and life?” (Romans 2:4 CEB)

Sorrow & Rebuke

Some people don’t like sermons that make them sad, but is sorrow a necessary part of the repentance process?

“Now I am happy, but not because I hurt your feelings. It is because God used your hurt feelings to make you turn back to him, and none of you were harmed by us. When God makes you feel sorry enough to turn to him and be saved, you don't have anything to feel bad about. But when this world makes you feel sorry, it can cause your death.” (2 Corinthians 7:9-10 CEV)

Some Christians believe that redefining some popular sins as no longer sin is love of neighbor. But, true love of neighbor includes correction not condoning of sins that hurt us and separate us from God.

“Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent.” (Revelation 3:19 NASB)

If we should ever be called upon to correct someone’s mistaken ideas, our attitude is important.

“Be humble when you correct people who oppose you. Maybe God will lead them to turn to him and learn the truth.” (2 Timothy 2:25 CEV)

Will you have a change of heart and mind, change direction from trust in the world to faith in God, and believe the good news about the reign of God? You decide!

Bible E-Course 6A - Salvation

In the Bible, temporal salvation is often a rescue from such circumstances as enemy attack, slavery, calamity and sickness. Eternal salvation is deliverance from death (Romans 6:23; Hebrews 5:7; James 5:20) and hell (Matthew 10:28; Jude 1:23).

Eternal salvation is often referred to as saving souls and we have a part to play.

“Save some by snatching them from the fire. Fearing God, have mercy on some, hating even the clothing contaminated by their sinful urges.” (Jude 23 CEB)

What about those who refuse salvation or hide from the things of God?

“So if we refuse this great way of being saved, how can we hope to escape? The Lord himself was the first to tell about it, and people who heard the message proved to us that it was true.” (Hebrews 2:3 CEV)

Eternal salvation involves calling on the name of the Lord.

“And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Acts 2:21 KJV)

“Are you saved?” That’s a question sometimes asked by naïve Christians. Christians who know their Bibles well might reply, I AM saved (Romans 8:24, Ephesians 2:5–8), am BEING saved (1 Corinthians 1:18, 2 Corinthians 2:15, Philippians 2:12), and WILL BE saved (Romans 5:9–10, 1 Corinthians 3:12–15).

The Only Way

So what is the way of being saved? The simple answer is Jesus.

“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” (John 3:17 ESV)

What about other religions? In an inclusive world is Jesus really so exclusive?

“... there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12 NASB)

Confess

Is being unashamed to confess our faith publicly relevant?

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9 NLT)

Obey

Is obedience to Jesus important for eternal salvation?

“And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (Hebrews 5:9 KJV).

How is God’s word involved in salvation?

“Therefore, with humility, set aside all moral filth and the growth of wickedness, and welcome the word planted deep inside you—the very word that is able to save you.” (James 1:21 CEB)

Bible

What about doctrines that developed after the time of Jesus and the Apostles? Are they important? Is any particular church tradition more important than another or do the teachings of Jesus and the apostles take primacy in our faith?

“Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all time handed down to the saints.” (Jude 3 NASB)

Salvation is based upon faith, a gift from God, and the teachings of Jesus and the apostles as laid out in Holy Scripture. No church is perfect, but one that teaches from the Bible is better. A church that actually believes and seeks to obey the Bible is best.

The more we know our Bibles, the easier it is to filter out man-made ideas and ancient or modern traditions that neither Jesus nor the apostles taught. The best source for the faith once for all handed down to the saints is found in the most reliable collection of ancient documents in human history, the Bible.

Will you have a change of heart and mind, and believe the good news of salvation in God’s reign? You decide!

Bible E-Course 5G - Triumph & Suffering

 Triumph and suffering often go hand in hand. Jesus went from triumph on Palm Sunday, prophesied His ultimate triumph, and then experienced horrendous suffering. Yet His suffering was just the beginning of the ultimate victory.

Prophecy

Before Christ comes back there will be much suffering for the whole world. The most important thing to learn about the Second Coming is that we do not know when it will be, just that He will come back and that we must keep watch (Matthew 24).

“But nobody knows when that day or hour will come, not the heavenly angels and not the Son. Only the Father knows.” (Matthew 24:36 CEB)

This is a purposefully vague prophecy. It’s obvious that God does not want us caught up in prediction addiction. Jesus includes a picture of normal life before Noah’s flood.

“When the Son of Man appears, things will be just as they were when Noah lived. People were eating, drinking, and getting married right up to the day the flood came and Noah went into the big boat. They didn't know anything was happening until the flood came and swept them all away. This is how it will be when the Son of Man appears.” (Matthew 24:37-39 CEV)

Does Jesus confirm the Noah flood narrative? In the context of Noah’s flood, what does being “taken” portray?

“Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one left.” (Matthew 24:40-41 ESV)

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. As the world suffers, what must we do?

“Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.” (Matthew 24:42 KJV)

What does watch mean?

“Keep watching and praying, so that you do not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41 NASB)

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 explained it further.

“But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.” (Matthew 24:43-44 NIV)

Jesus is like a burglar in only one important way, His coming is unexpected. Jesus challenges us to stay alert, be vigilant, prepared for His coming. Watch and pray so that when He comes we will be ready.

Communion

Communion reminds us of His suffering. It is variously called the Eucharist (giving thanks), the Lord’s Supper, and Mass (from dismissal). It is common to almost all Christians, except perhaps Quakers and the Salvation Army. What did Jesus say?

“And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body.’ Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.’ ” (Matthew 26:26-28 NKJV)

Jesus gave thanks. That’s eucharisteo in Greek, giving rise to our English word Eucharist. Notice that He neither said, this “transubstantiates” into my body nor this “symbolizes” my body. Jesus simply said, “is.” Leaving it as a mystery. In the west, the word mystery was translated as a sacrament, originally meaning a divine blessing by physical means.

Denied and Betrayed

As Jesus suffered, Peter denied Him three times. The other disciples scattered. Judas betrayed him. Will we too fail Jesus? Are these experiences still common in church life?

“Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!” (Matthew 26:41 NLT)

The Garden Prayer

In the garden Jesus taught us by example, a prayer that many have prayed since.

“My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” (Matthew 26:39 ESV)

Kangaroo Courts

Witnesses were found who would give false testimony of Jesus. Christians have been falsely accused at many times and places ever since.

“Now the chief priests, the elders, and the whole council sought false testimony against Jesus… at last two false witnesses came forward and said, ‘This man said, “I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.” ’ ” (Matthew 26:59-61 WEB)

Jesus was beaten, slapped, spat upon, flogged, mocked and crucified.

“Those who were walking by insulted Jesus, shaking their heads and saying, ‘So you were going to destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, were you? Save yourself! If you are God’s Son, come down from the cross.’ ” (Matthew 27:39-40 CEB)

And He was buried.

Resurrection

Women discovered the empty tomb very early on that Sunday morning. An angel spoke.

“The angel said to the women, ‘Don't be afraid! I know you are looking for Jesus, who was nailed to a cross. He isn't here! God has raised him to life, just as Jesus said he would. Come, see the place where his body was lying. Now hurry! Tell his disciples he has been raised to life and is on his way to Galilee. Go there, and you will see him. This is what I came to tell you.’ ” (Matthew 28:5-7 CEV)

Then, they met Jesus.

“So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, ‘Greetings!’ And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.’ ” (Matthew 28:8-9 ESV)

The Great Commission

When Jesus appeared after He rose, He had some important instructions to tell them all.

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Matthew 28:18-20 KJV)

Suffering has always been a part of the Christian path to victory.

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us.” (Romans 8:18 HCSB)

Many martyrs have had to suffer death as Jesus did. In politically free countries, Christians may suffer loss of a friendship, a university placement, or even the ire of church elders that only want “smooth things” preached (Isaiah 30:9-13).

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though something strange were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that at the revelation of His glory you may also rejoice and be overjoyed.” (1 Peter 4:12-13 NASB)

Faithful churches obey the Great Commission and make the teachings of Jesus central to our common faith. Will you have a change of heart and mind, believe the good news of God’s reign and obey Jesus? You decide!

Bible E-Course 5F - Miracles of Jesus

Christians are a miracle-believing people. All existence is due to a series of divine miracles, and some are extraordinary miracles. What lessons can we learn from the miracles that Jesus performed?

A Leper

What did Jesus say when healing a leper?

“Jesus said to him, ‘Don’t say anything to anyone. Instead, go and show yourself to the priest and offer the gift that Moses commanded. This will be a testimony to them.’ ” (Matthew 8:4 CEB)

Centurion’s Servant

When a Roman centurion asked Jesus to heal his servant, what did he say?

“I have officers who give orders to me, and I have soldiers who take orders from me. I can say to one of them, ‘Go!’ and he goes. I can say to another, ‘Come!’ and he comes. I can say to my servant, ‘Do this!’ and he will do it. When Jesus heard this, he was so surprised that he turned and said to the crowd following him, ‘I tell you in all of Israel I've never found anyone with this much faith!’ ” (Matthew 8:9-10 CEV)

Heals Many

What prophecy did Jesus fulfill by healing many?

“This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah: ‘He took our illnesses and bore our diseases.’ ” (Matthew 8:17 ESV cf. Isaiah 53:4)

Heals a Paralytic

Does Jesus know people’s thoughts? Does Jesus forgive sins?

“And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.” (Matthew 9:4-6 KJV)

Blind Men Healed

Does our faith have anything to do with healing?

“Then He touched their eyes, saying, ‘It shall be done for you according to your faith.’ ” (Matthew 9:27-31 NASB)

A Mute Speaks

People were amazed when a mute began to talk.

“And the multitudes marveled, saying, ‘It was never seen like this in Israel!’ ” (Matthew 9:33b NKJV)

Sabbath Healing

When the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus for healing a man on the Sabbath, He shamed them.

“If you had a sheep that fell into a well on the Sabbath, wouldn’t you work to pull it out? Of course you would. And how much more valuable is a person than a sheep! Yes, the law permits a person to do good on the Sabbath.” (Matthew 12:11b-12 NLT)

Wind and Waves

Why did Jesus rebuke the disciples for THEIR lack of faith?

“He said to them, ‘Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?’ Then he got up, rebuked the wind and the sea, and there was a great calm. The men marveled, saying, ‘What kind of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?’ ” (Matthew 8:26-27 WEB)

Demon-Possessed Healed

Jesus didn’t mess with demons but told them to go away.

“Then he said to the demons, ‘Go away,’ and they came out and went into the pigs. The whole herd rushed down the cliff into the lake and drowned.” (Matthew 8:32 CEB)

Bleeding Healed

What did Jesus tell a woman who had been bleeding for twelve years about HER faith?

“Jesus turned. He saw the woman and said, ‘Don't worry! You are now healed because of your faith.’ At that moment she was healed.” (Matthew 9:22 CEV)

Life Restored

People mocked Jesus, just as people mock modern believers. What did He say to the noisy mourners?

“he said, ‘Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.’ And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose.” (Matthew 9:24-25 ESV)

Blind Healed

Whose faith was the healing of two blind men dependent upon, at least in part?

“Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.” (Matthew 9:29 KJV)

A Mute Speaks

What was a common false accusation about Jesus from religious leaders? Do religious leaders sometimes still make false accusations?

“But the Pharisees were saying, ‘He casts out the demons by the ruler of the demons.’ ” (Matthew 9:34 NASB)

Feeding Five Thousand

What did Jesus tell the disciples about feeding a crowd? Is He still saying something similar regarding meager church resources?

“Jesus replied, ‘They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.’ ” (Matthew 14:16 NIV)

Walks on Water

What are two things that Jesus said during a miraculous calming of the wind on Lake Galilee? Is He saying something similar to us, that we should not be afraid?

“But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.’ … And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’ ” (Matthew 14:27, 31 NKJV)

A Touch Healed

On the other side of the lake, how were people healed? Can we still touch the fringe of His robe?

“They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed.” (Matthew 14:36 NLT)

Gentile Faith

Jesus tested a woman’s faith with words that some might think was an insult. Are we more politically correct than Jesus? What high compliment did He then give regarding HER faith?

“Then Jesus answered her, ‘Woman, great is your faith! Be it done to you even as you desire.’ And her daughter was healed from that hour.” (Matthew 15:28 WEB)

Feeding Four Thousand

Similar to feeding the five thousand, Jesus miraculously fed another crowd. How filled were they? Can Jesus provide our needs too?

“Everyone ate until they were full. The disciples collected seven baskets full of leftovers.” (Matthew 15:32-39)

A Boy Healed

When healing a boy, what did Jesus say was a reason that we sometimes lack faith?

“Jesus said, ‘You people are too stubborn to have any faith! How much longer must I be with you? Why do I have to put up with you? Bring the boy here.’ ” (Matthew 17:17 CEV)

When the disciples asked why they couldn’t help the boy, what did Jesus say they lacked?

“Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20b ESV)

Pay Taxes

Why did Jesus pay taxes? How was the tax money provided? Will God also provide for us?

“Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.” (Matthew 17:27 KJV)

Casting out Demons

When falsely accused by religious leaders, how did Jesus answer?

“Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and no city or house divided against itself will stand. And if Satan is casting out Satan, he has become divided against himself; how then will his kingdom stand? And if by Beelzebul I cast out the demons, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore, they will be your judges. But if I cast out the demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. Or, how can anyone enter the strong man’s house and carry off his property, unless he first ties up the strong man? And then he will plunder his house.” (Matthew 12:25-29 NASB)

Two Blind Men

What was the reason that Jesus healed two blind men?

“Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.” (Matthew 20:34 NIV)

Fruitless Fig Tree

What did Jesus do to a fruitless fig tree? Is this symbolic of empty religious rituals without spiritual fruit?

“And seeing a fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it but leaves, and said to it, ‘Let no fruit grow on you ever again.’ Immediately the fig tree withered away.” (Matthew 21:19 NKJV)

When asked how the tree withered so quickly, what was the answer Jesus gave?

“Then Jesus told them, ‘I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don’t doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, “May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.’ ” (Matthew 21:21-22 NLT)

Will you have a change of heart and mind, choose faith over skepticism and believe the good news of God’s reign and bear fruit? You decide!

Bible E-Course 5E - Parables

Why did Jesus preach in parables? It’s because people really don’t want the truth.

“All of them have stubborn minds! They refuse to listen; they cover their eyes. They cannot see or hear or understand. If they could, they would turn to me, and I would heal them.” (Matthew 13:15 CEV)

Shepherds

We can learn many important spiritual lessons from Jesus’ farm parables.

“Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were troubled and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36 CEB)

Pastor means shepherd. The ideal political and church leader is pictured as a caring shepherd (Psalm 23; Isaiah 40:11; Jeremiah 3:15; 23:4; Ezekiel 34:23-24; John 10:1-16; 1 Peter 5:1-4). People are burdened by leaders with vain traditions and bad ideas, weighed down in ignorance, neglected and scattered abroad without care and attention.

An urgent task in the church is still to seek and care for lost sheep and bring them into the kingdom.

Seed

The Parable of the Sower reveals four possibilities for the word of the kingdom.

“A farmer went out to scatter seed.” (Matthew 13:3b CEB)

Jesus spoke of sowing the word of the kingdom like an indiscriminate seed sower. There is no target audience. The seed of the kingdom is sown with wild abandon, like spreading the Gospel with faith instead of formulas.

Wheat and Weeds

A man planted wheat.

“but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away.” (Matthew 13:25 ESV)

The church has done much good in the world, like schools, universities, medical care, music, arts, literature, science, human rights, opposing human trafficking, influencing laws, providing orphanages, and caring for the hungry and poor. But the weeds of sin also exist in the church.

God’s sovereign decision is that we may choose (Deuteronomy 30:19; Joshua 24:15; Proverbs 1:29-33; Matthew 7:7-8; Revelation 3:20). God wants children who love Him by choice, not robots. What will happen to the weeds within the church who choose sin?

“So just as the weeds are gathered up and burned with fire, so shall it be at the end of the age.” (Matthew 13:40 NASB)

Jesus attests to judgment and hell more than anybody else. Heretics may deny it, and lenient people may think it harsh, but a loving God will not tolerate lawlessness for eternity.

Righteousness for Christians is by faith in forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Let’s pray for God’s forgiveness and focus on the day when the righteous will shine like the sun.

Mustard Seed

“Another parable He put forth to them, saying: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, which indeed is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.’ ” (Matthew 13:31-32 NKJV)

Exclusive small sects that think they are still that “little flock” (Luke 12:32), totally miss the point of this parable. The “least of all the seeds” is conversational speech, an informal superlative. Jesus’ frequently taught with imagery and hyperbole.

Leaven

“Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.” (Matthew 13:33 KJV)

Leaven spreads. Is it the kingdom growing or sin inside the kingdom? Both seem to be relevant, but this is a parable about the kingdom growing. It’s growing even though the church is so very imperfect.

Hidden Treasure

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” (Matthew 13:44 NIV)

The most valuable treasure of all is in this world but buried. Would we be willing to sell everything for the kingdom of heaven?

Priceless Pearl

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” (Matthew 13:45-46 NKJV)

The buried treasure was found by accident. The pearl was found by someone searching. Both men sold all that they had.

Fishing Net

“Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind. When the net was full, they dragged it up onto the shore, sat down, and sorted the good fish into crates, but threw the bad ones away.” (Matthew 13:47-48 NLT)

Trawlers separate their catch. Many moderns don’t like to hear about hell, but Jesus does not shy away from it. Angels will only confirm what we have already chosen, to avoid God or be near Him. Hell is separation from God. Don’t choose distance from God or neglect salvation.

“There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” (Matthew 13:42 WEB)

Householder

“So he told them, ‘Every student of the Scriptures who becomes a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like someone who brings out new and old treasures from the storeroom.’ ” (Matthew 13:51-52 CEV)

Earthly treasures will all fade, but the new and old treasures of the kingdom of heaven are forever. Do we count the kingdom of heaven as our greatest treasure?

Virgins

Part of being ready for His coming is to have oil in our lamps.

“For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps.” (Matthew 25:3-4 (ESV)

Perhaps this is the oil of gladness (Psalm 45:7) and the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:38). Definitely a form of spiritual preparedness is mandatory and that always involves the Holy Spirit.

Talents

What does God expect us to do with what Heaven has given us? Why hasn’t God given to us all equally? The kingdom of heaven is like various heavenly investments.

“And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.” (Matthew 25:15 KJV)

Let’s not bury heaven’s investment in us, but work diligently to increase its kingdom value.

Sheep and Goats

It may not be politically correct, but God expects us to love our neighbor who is needy, a foreigner, someone in need of health care or in prison for crimes committed.

“For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger [literally, foreigner], and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.“ (Matthew 25:35-36 NASB)

What will happen to those who fail this modern political test?

“... they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” (Matthew 25:46 NIV)

God’s reign is growing large, giving everyone a chance, gathering good and bad, leaven, hidden, priceless, new and old treasures. Will you have a change of heart and mind and believe the good news of God’s reign? You decide!

Bible E-Course 5D - Jesus' Commands

The Ten Commandments are important, but are we aware of the commandments of Christ? Let’s look at some of Jesus’ commands in the Gospel of Matthew.

Repent

What was an important focus of Jesus’ preaching?

“From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ ” (Matthew 4:17 ESV)

Our English word repent translates words meaning a change of heart and mind, to feel sorrow, and to turn back. There must also be proof or fruit of repentance in action (Matthew 3:8; Acts 26:20; Revelation 2:5; 2:21-22; 9:20-21; 16:9-11). Repentance includes a change of direction in two areas:

1. turning from evil (2 Chronicles 7:14; Ezekiel 18:21; James 5:20) and

2. turning to God (Deuteronomy 4:30; 30:10; 2 Chronicles 15:4; Luke 1:16; Acts 14:15; 15:19; 26:18-20; 1 Thessalonians 1:9).

The Law

Did Jesus abolish the law?

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” (Matthew 5:17-18 ESV)

Does the letter of the law apply to Christians or the spirit of the law (Romans 2:29; 7:6; 2 Corinthians 3:4-6)?

Reconciliation

How should we keep the peace?

“... First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court.” (Matthew 5:24-25 NIV)

Reconciliation is the goal, though it may not always be possible. In some circumstances, we just have to walk away and wipe the dust off our feet (Matthew 10:14; Mark 6:11; Luke 9:5; Acts 13:51).

Lust

Making a point by exaggeration, how did Jesus want us to avoid lust?

“If your right eye causes you to sin, poke it out and throw it away. It is better to lose one part of your body, than for your whole body to end up in hell. If your right hand causes you to sin, chop it off and throw it away! It is better to lose one part of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.” (Matthew 5:29-30 CEV)

Literal self-mutilation would be against God’s will (Leviticus 19:28; Deuteronomy 14:1; Mark 5:2–5; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Philippians 3:2). Jesus often uses hyperbolic or exaggerated teaching for emphasis. Here Jesus reminds us to take drastic action so as not to look or touch if it leads to adulterous thoughts.

Oaths

Should Christians make silly oaths?

“When you make a promise, say only ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’ Anything else comes from the devil.” (Matthew 5:37 CEV)

Saying some mumbo jumbo, raising your right hand, swearing on a Bible or on your mother’s grave is all just superstitious leverage. Though we may be required by man’s law to do these things, Christians know that in reality they do nothing to guarantee the truth. Jesus encourages us to simply say yes or no without resorting to silly oaths.

Enemies

How should Christians deal with enemies?

“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44 KJV).

What do we do if an enemy is coming over the hill to rape and murder our families? Is there a just war? That debate has gone on for a long time.

Perfection

What should a Christian seek?

“Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48 WEB)

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.” (Matthew 6:33 NASB)

Perfection is the goal, and we all fall far short of it. We still need Jesus.

Judgmentalism

Should Christians be judgmental?

“Do not judge [censure], or you too will be judged.” (Matthew 7:1 NIV)

Does not being judgmental mean that we should be naïve without discernment?

“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.” (Matthew 7:6 NKJV)

“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.” (Matthew 7:15 NLT)

We need to know who dogs, swine and false prophets are so that we can take appropriate action. Judgmentalism is never appropriate. Not sharing holy things with those who will reject them with disdain and being aware of pretenders are necessary.

Ask, Seek, Knock

Should we persist in prayer?

“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7 NLT)

Golden Rule

What is the golden rule?

“Treat others as you want them to treat you. This is what the Law and the Prophets are all about.” (Matthew 7:12 CEV)

How does that relate to little ones?

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10 NIV)

Offenses

How do we handle serious offenses?

“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother.” (Matthew 18:15 NKJV)

This is for serious infractions and does not encourage being nit-pickers, constantly nagging others. Instead we should patiently bear with one another (Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:13). How often?

“Then Peter came and said to him, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Until seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I don’t tell you until seven times, but, until seventy times seven.’ ” (Matthew 18:21-22 WEB)

Poor

How should Christians treat poor neighbors?

“Whenever you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers, your relatives, nor wealthy neighbors, otherwise they may also invite you to a meal in return, and that will be your repayment. But whenever you give a banquet, invite people who are poor, who have disabilities, who are limping, and people who are blind; and you will be blessed, since they do not have the means to repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” (Luke 14:12b-14 NASB)

Love

What are our priorities in love?

Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.” (Matthew 22:37-38 NIV)

“And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” (Matthew 22:39 NKJV)

Some Christians love God but not their neighbor. They ignore the needy, the sick, hate foreigners (Matthew 25:31-46) and are goats bound for hell. Some Christians love their neighbor but not God, encouraging sins that God forbids. Like Ephesus they have left their first love (Revelation 2:4). Jesus commands both.

Watchfulness

Are we ready for Christ’s coming?

“So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.” (Matthew 24:42-44 NLT)

Keep watch means we are spiritually ready at any moment for Christ to come.

 
Great Commission

What is our mission?

“ ‘Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Amen.” (Matthew 28:19-20 WEB)

These mandates are just some of Jesus’ commandments. There are more. Will you have a change of heart and mind, turning from sin to God, and believe the good news of God’s reign? You decide!