Legalism or Faith (Bible E-Course Philippians 3)
Did Paul use strong terms for those who promoted a variety of legalism?
So then, my brothers and sisters, be glad in the Lord. It’s no trouble for me to repeat the same things to you because they will help keep you on track. Watch out for the “dogs.” Watch out for people who do evil things. Watch out for those who insist on circumcision, which is really mutilation. (Philippians 3:1-2 CEB)
What is true circumcision? Is the flesh or letter of the law something to brag about?
But we are the ones who are truly circumcised, because we worship by the power of God's Spirit and take pride in Christ Jesus. We don't brag about what we have done, although I could. Others may brag about themselves, but I have more reason to brag than anyone else. I was circumcised when I was eight days old, and I am from the nation of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin. I am a true Hebrew. As a Pharisee, I strictly obeyed the Law of Moses. (Philippians 3:3-5 CEV)
How zealous was Paul for the law?
I was so zealous that I harshly persecuted the church. And as for righteousness, I obeyed the law without fault. (Philippians 3:6 NLT)
How did Paul count his past legalism?
But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. (Philippians 3:7 ESV)
Is anything worth more than knowing Christ?
More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of Him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ (Philippians 3:8 HCSB)
What is far better than righteousness of the law?
And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith (Philippians 3:9 KJV)
What does knowing Christ offer?
that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; if somehow I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. (Philippians 3:10-11 NASB)
Does Paul give any indication of eternal security or once saved always saved here?
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:12-14 NIV)
Do mature Christians try to argue others into agreement or leave that up to God.
Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind. (Philippians 3:15-16 NKJV)
Do words alone or does faith alone reveal where we are in Christ or is conduct the evidence?
Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example. For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. (Philippians 3:17-18 NLT)
Where are they headed? Where is their worship? What are their thoughts?
whose end is destruction, whose god is the belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who think about earthly things. (Philippians 3:19 WEB)
Where is our true citizenship and our hope?
Our citizenship is in heaven. We look forward to a savior that comes from there—the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform our humble bodies so that they are like his glorious body, by the power that also makes him able to subject all things to himself. (Philippians 3:20-21 CEB)
Do we rely on circumcision of the flesh or the heart? Do we rely on righteousness by the letter of the law or by faith? Do we have a lazy faith of eternal security, or do we press on toward the goal? You decide!
So then, my brothers and sisters, be glad in the Lord. It’s no trouble for me to repeat the same things to you because they will help keep you on track. Watch out for the “dogs.” Watch out for people who do evil things. Watch out for those who insist on circumcision, which is really mutilation. (Philippians 3:1-2 CEB)
What is true circumcision? Is the flesh or letter of the law something to brag about?
But we are the ones who are truly circumcised, because we worship by the power of God's Spirit and take pride in Christ Jesus. We don't brag about what we have done, although I could. Others may brag about themselves, but I have more reason to brag than anyone else. I was circumcised when I was eight days old, and I am from the nation of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin. I am a true Hebrew. As a Pharisee, I strictly obeyed the Law of Moses. (Philippians 3:3-5 CEV)
How zealous was Paul for the law?
I was so zealous that I harshly persecuted the church. And as for righteousness, I obeyed the law without fault. (Philippians 3:6 NLT)
How did Paul count his past legalism?
But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. (Philippians 3:7 ESV)
Is anything worth more than knowing Christ?
More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of Him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ (Philippians 3:8 HCSB)
What is far better than righteousness of the law?
And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith (Philippians 3:9 KJV)
What does knowing Christ offer?
that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; if somehow I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. (Philippians 3:10-11 NASB)
Does Paul give any indication of eternal security or once saved always saved here?
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:12-14 NIV)
Do mature Christians try to argue others into agreement or leave that up to God.
Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind. (Philippians 3:15-16 NKJV)
Do words alone or does faith alone reveal where we are in Christ or is conduct the evidence?
Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example. For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. (Philippians 3:17-18 NLT)
Where are they headed? Where is their worship? What are their thoughts?
whose end is destruction, whose god is the belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who think about earthly things. (Philippians 3:19 WEB)
Where is our true citizenship and our hope?
Our citizenship is in heaven. We look forward to a savior that comes from there—the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform our humble bodies so that they are like his glorious body, by the power that also makes him able to subject all things to himself. (Philippians 3:20-21 CEB)
Do we rely on circumcision of the flesh or the heart? Do we rely on righteousness by the letter of the law or by faith? Do we have a lazy faith of eternal security, or do we press on toward the goal? You decide!
Joy despite Persecution (Bible E-Course - Philippians 2)
What is good to remember in persecution?
Just one thing: Live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind, working side by side for the faith that comes from the gospel, not being frightened in any way by your opponents. This is a sign of destruction for them, but of your deliverance—and this is from God. (Philippians 1:27-28 HCSB)
Did Philippi suffer persecution like Paul?
For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me. (Philippians 1:29-30 KJV)
Is a church meant to have joy and unity?
Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. (Philippians 2:1-2 NASB)
How does humility promote unity?
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (Philippians 2:3-4 NIV)
Christ
Was Jesus humble?
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant [slave], and coming in the likeness of men. (Philippians 2:5-7 NKJV cp. John 17:5)
How did Jesus humble Himself?
When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. (Philippians 2:7b-8 NLT)
Did God bless Jesus’ humility?
Therefore God also highly exalted him, and gave to him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11 WEB)
Salvation
Does God help us work out our salvation?
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. (Philippians 2:12-13 ESV)
What sets Christians apart?
Do everything without grumbling and arguing so that you may be blameless and pure, innocent children of God surrounded by people who are crooked and corrupt. Among these people you shine like stars in the world because you hold on to the word of life. This will allow me to say on the day of Christ that I haven’t run for nothing or worked for nothing. (Philippians 2:14-16 CEB)
Are faith and service important?
Your faith in the Lord and your service are like a sacrifice offered to him. And my own blood may have to be poured out with the sacrifice. If this happens, I will be glad and rejoice with you. In the same way, you should be glad and rejoice with me. (Philippians 2:17-18 CEV)
Two Faithful Servants
Was Timothy a unique servant?
But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. (Philippians 2:19-20 KJV)
How was Tim unique?
For they all seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus. But you know of his proven character, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child serving his father. (Philippians 2:21-22 NASB)
What was Paul hoping?
I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon. (Philippians 2:23-24 NIV)
Who was Epaphroditus?
Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need; since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. (Philippians 2:25-26 NKJV)
Was he deathly sick at one point?
And he certainly was ill; in fact, he almost died. But God had mercy on him—and also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow after another. So I am all the more anxious to send him back to you, for I know you will be glad to see him, and then I will not be so worried about you. (Philippians 2:27-28 NLT)
Was Epa somewhat of a hero?
Receive him therefore in the Lord with all joy, and hold such people in honor, because for the work of Christ he came near to death, risking his life to supply that which was lacking in your service toward me. (Philippians 2:29-30 WEB)
Do humble unity, joy, faith and service to Christ mark your church? You decide!
Just one thing: Live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind, working side by side for the faith that comes from the gospel, not being frightened in any way by your opponents. This is a sign of destruction for them, but of your deliverance—and this is from God. (Philippians 1:27-28 HCSB)
Did Philippi suffer persecution like Paul?
For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me. (Philippians 1:29-30 KJV)
Is a church meant to have joy and unity?
Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. (Philippians 2:1-2 NASB)
How does humility promote unity?
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. (Philippians 2:3-4 NIV)
Christ
Was Jesus humble?
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant [slave], and coming in the likeness of men. (Philippians 2:5-7 NKJV cp. John 17:5)
How did Jesus humble Himself?
When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. (Philippians 2:7b-8 NLT)
Did God bless Jesus’ humility?
Therefore God also highly exalted him, and gave to him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9-11 WEB)
Salvation
Does God help us work out our salvation?
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. (Philippians 2:12-13 ESV)
What sets Christians apart?
Do everything without grumbling and arguing so that you may be blameless and pure, innocent children of God surrounded by people who are crooked and corrupt. Among these people you shine like stars in the world because you hold on to the word of life. This will allow me to say on the day of Christ that I haven’t run for nothing or worked for nothing. (Philippians 2:14-16 CEB)
Are faith and service important?
Your faith in the Lord and your service are like a sacrifice offered to him. And my own blood may have to be poured out with the sacrifice. If this happens, I will be glad and rejoice with you. In the same way, you should be glad and rejoice with me. (Philippians 2:17-18 CEV)
Two Faithful Servants
Was Timothy a unique servant?
But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. (Philippians 2:19-20 KJV)
How was Tim unique?
For they all seek after their own interests, not those of Christ Jesus. But you know of his proven character, that he served with me in the furtherance of the gospel like a child serving his father. (Philippians 2:21-22 NASB)
What was Paul hoping?
I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me. And I am confident in the Lord that I myself will come soon. (Philippians 2:23-24 NIV)
Who was Epaphroditus?
Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need; since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. (Philippians 2:25-26 NKJV)
Was he deathly sick at one point?
And he certainly was ill; in fact, he almost died. But God had mercy on him—and also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow after another. So I am all the more anxious to send him back to you, for I know you will be glad to see him, and then I will not be so worried about you. (Philippians 2:27-28 NLT)
Was Epa somewhat of a hero?
Receive him therefore in the Lord with all joy, and hold such people in honor, because for the work of Christ he came near to death, risking his life to supply that which was lacking in your service toward me. (Philippians 2:29-30 WEB)
Do humble unity, joy, faith and service to Christ mark your church? You decide!
Christian Confidence (Bible E-Course - Philippians 1)
Intro
Paul and Timothy, probably as stenographer, wrote to help the saints in Philippi to find confidence and joy in the midst of persecution. It was an established church, mature enough to have the oversight of a team of elders. In those days the terms bishop or overseer, pastor or shepherd, and elder or older male were synonymous. Philippi also had a team of deacons to serve in physical functions.
Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons (Philippians 1:1 ESV)
Do Paul and Timothy wish them well?
May the grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. (Philippians 1:2 CEB)
Does Paul thank God and pray for them?
Every time I think of you, I thank my God. And whenever I mention you in my prayers, it makes me happy. (Philippians 1:3-4 CEV)
Why?
because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. (Philippians 1:5 HCSB)
Christian Confidence
Did Paul discuss confidence in God while suffering? What was he confident about?
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. (Philippians 1:6-7 KJV)
Did Paul have affection for this church?
For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:8 NASB)
And what was Paul's prayer?
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:9-11 NIV)
Was Paul’s suffering a blessing in disguise?
But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. (Philippians 1:12-14 NKJV)
Was there a mix of motives among preachers then?
It’s true that some are preaching out of jealousy and rivalry. But others preach about Christ with pure motives. They preach because they love me, for they know I have been appointed to defend the Good News. Those others do not have pure motives as they preach about Christ. They preach with selfish ambition, not sincerely, intending to make my chains more painful to me. (Philippians 1:15-17 NLT)
What if some preachers have wrong motives?
What does it matter? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed. I rejoice in this, yes, and will rejoice. (Philippians 1:18 WEB)
Why was Paul confident?
For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. (Philippians 1:19-20 KJV)
What was his attitude to life and death?
If I live, it will be for Christ, and if I die, I will gain even more. (Philippians 1:21 CEV)
Was Paul torn between two desires?
But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. (Philippians 1:22-23 NLT)
Why would he want to live?
However, it’s more important for me to stay in this world for your sake. (Philippians 1:24 CEB)
Was Paul confident of visiting them again? History seems to show that he did.
Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again. (Philippians 1:25-26 ESV)
We can be confident that God will finish what He began in us, no matter the motives of those who shared the Gospel with us. Do you trust that God can still work even through very imperfect preachers? You decide!
Paul and Timothy, probably as stenographer, wrote to help the saints in Philippi to find confidence and joy in the midst of persecution. It was an established church, mature enough to have the oversight of a team of elders. In those days the terms bishop or overseer, pastor or shepherd, and elder or older male were synonymous. Philippi also had a team of deacons to serve in physical functions.
Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons (Philippians 1:1 ESV)
Do Paul and Timothy wish them well?
May the grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. (Philippians 1:2 CEB)
Does Paul thank God and pray for them?
Every time I think of you, I thank my God. And whenever I mention you in my prayers, it makes me happy. (Philippians 1:3-4 CEV)
Why?
because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. (Philippians 1:5 HCSB)
Christian Confidence
Did Paul discuss confidence in God while suffering? What was he confident about?
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. (Philippians 1:6-7 KJV)
Did Paul have affection for this church?
For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:8 NASB)
And what was Paul's prayer?
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:9-11 NIV)
Was Paul’s suffering a blessing in disguise?
But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. (Philippians 1:12-14 NKJV)
Was there a mix of motives among preachers then?
It’s true that some are preaching out of jealousy and rivalry. But others preach about Christ with pure motives. They preach because they love me, for they know I have been appointed to defend the Good News. Those others do not have pure motives as they preach about Christ. They preach with selfish ambition, not sincerely, intending to make my chains more painful to me. (Philippians 1:15-17 NLT)
What if some preachers have wrong motives?
What does it matter? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed. I rejoice in this, yes, and will rejoice. (Philippians 1:18 WEB)
Why was Paul confident?
For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. (Philippians 1:19-20 KJV)
What was his attitude to life and death?
If I live, it will be for Christ, and if I die, I will gain even more. (Philippians 1:21 CEV)
Was Paul torn between two desires?
But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. (Philippians 1:22-23 NLT)
Why would he want to live?
However, it’s more important for me to stay in this world for your sake. (Philippians 1:24 CEB)
Was Paul confident of visiting them again? History seems to show that he did.
Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again. (Philippians 1:25-26 ESV)
We can be confident that God will finish what He began in us, no matter the motives of those who shared the Gospel with us. Do you trust that God can still work even through very imperfect preachers? You decide!
A Living Faith (Bible E-Course - James on Works)
When reading James, we must understand that works of the law (Romans 9:32; Galatians 2:16; 3:2, 5, 10) are not the same thing as good works of obedience to Christ (Matthew 5:16; Ephesians 2:10; 1 Timothy 6:18; Titus 2:7, 14; 3:8, 14). How does James present faith and good works? Is Christianity about doing?
You must be doers of the word and not only hearers who mislead themselves. (James 1:22 CEB)
Why?
For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. (James 1:23-24 ESV)
Does the law of liberty involve doing?
But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. (James 1:25 KJV)
What are some good works that define the Christian religion?
Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. (James 1:27 NASB)
Some translations avoid the word “works” but it’s the same Greek word. Let’s see one such translation and insert the word “works” where it was avoided. What does a lack of good works prove about our faith?
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds [works]? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action [works], is dead. (James 2:14-17 NIV)
Other translations seem to directly contradict the idea of sola fide or faith alone.
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. (James 2:17 KJV)
The idea of “faith alone” can be understood as a dead faith without good works of obedience to Christ, and disagrees with James. Is faith alone or is a living faith one that results in good works?
But someone may well say, “You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” (James 2:18 NASB)
Does belief by itself help the demons?
You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. (James 2:19 NIV)
What kind of faith has no accompanying works, a living or a dead faith? Can faith truly be alone?
But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? (James 2:20 NKJV)
Was Abraham justified by a faith that went to work? Do works then perfect faith?
Wasn’t Abraham our father justified by works, in that he offered up Isaac his son on the altar? You see that faith worked with his works, and by works faith was perfected. So the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him as righteousness,” and he was called the friend of God. (James 2:21-23 WEB)
Is faith truly alone, invisible and only internal, or does it become outwardly visible by the works we do?
You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. (James 2:24 ESV)
Is Rahab another example of a faith that went to work?
And in the same way, wasn’t Rahab the prostitute also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by a different route? (James 2:25 HCSB)
Some fellow Protestants falsely accuse our Catholic brothers of salvation by works, but that's either a misunderstanding or an outright lie. Does James solve the dispute? Can we really separate faith from good works?
Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works. (James 2:26 NLT)
James teaches that we must be doers of the word, doers of the work. We must have a faith that is accompanied by works. We must show our faith by our works, and by works faith is perfected. Faith is dead without good works. What good things does your faith prompt you to do? You decide!
You must be doers of the word and not only hearers who mislead themselves. (James 1:22 CEB)
Why?
For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. (James 1:23-24 ESV)
Does the law of liberty involve doing?
But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. (James 1:25 KJV)
What are some good works that define the Christian religion?
Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. (James 1:27 NASB)
Some translations avoid the word “works” but it’s the same Greek word. Let’s see one such translation and insert the word “works” where it was avoided. What does a lack of good works prove about our faith?
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds [works]? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action [works], is dead. (James 2:14-17 NIV)
Other translations seem to directly contradict the idea of sola fide or faith alone.
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. (James 2:17 KJV)
The idea of “faith alone” can be understood as a dead faith without good works of obedience to Christ, and disagrees with James. Is faith alone or is a living faith one that results in good works?
But someone may well say, “You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” (James 2:18 NASB)
Does belief by itself help the demons?
You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. (James 2:19 NIV)
What kind of faith has no accompanying works, a living or a dead faith? Can faith truly be alone?
But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? (James 2:20 NKJV)
Was Abraham justified by a faith that went to work? Do works then perfect faith?
Wasn’t Abraham our father justified by works, in that he offered up Isaac his son on the altar? You see that faith worked with his works, and by works faith was perfected. So the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him as righteousness,” and he was called the friend of God. (James 2:21-23 WEB)
Is faith truly alone, invisible and only internal, or does it become outwardly visible by the works we do?
You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. (James 2:24 ESV)
Is Rahab another example of a faith that went to work?
And in the same way, wasn’t Rahab the prostitute also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by a different route? (James 2:25 HCSB)
Some fellow Protestants falsely accuse our Catholic brothers of salvation by works, but that's either a misunderstanding or an outright lie. Does James solve the dispute? Can we really separate faith from good works?
Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works. (James 2:26 NLT)
James teaches that we must be doers of the word, doers of the work. We must have a faith that is accompanied by works. We must show our faith by our works, and by works faith is perfected. Faith is dead without good works. What good things does your faith prompt you to do? You decide!
A Living Faith (Bible E-Course - Judged by Works)
If we are justified by faith not by works, why are we judged by our works? Are works proof of a living faith?
… The dead were judged out of the things which were written in the books, according to their works. The sea gave up the dead who were in it. Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them. They were judged, each one according to his works. (Revelation 20:12-13 WEB)
There are works of the law and good works of obedience to Christ. Are there also wicked works?
Do not incline my heart to any evil thing, To practice wicked works With men who work iniquity; And do not let me eat of their delicacies. (Psalm 141:4 NKJV)
Are evil works also called works of the flesh?
Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21 HCSB)
Are evil works also called works of darkness?
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. (Ephesians 5:11 NKJV)
What fruit comes from the Holy Spirit? Is this just an emotion or how Christians behave?
God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. There is no law against behaving in any of these ways. And because we belong to Christ Jesus, we have killed our selfish feelings and desires. (Galatians 5:22-24 CEV)
Are good works then a fruit?
so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:10 NASB)
Is a claim to repentance meaningless without the fruit of a changed life?
Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ … (Luke 3:7-9 NKJV)
Do many profess God, but what they do reveals the opposite?
They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work. (Titus 1:16 ESV)
We are not saved BY our works, but our works are evidence of repentance and a living faith, they are what we have been called to, and that’s why our works are the criteria whereby we will be judged.
Sheep and Goats
Does the parable of the sheep and goats also reveal how everyone will be judged when Jesus returns? Does it also contradict a dead faith without works?
When the Son of Man comes in his glory with all his angels, he will sit on his royal throne. The people of all nations will be brought before him, and he will separate them, as shepherds separate their sheep from their goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. (Matthew 25:31-33 CEV)
How will the sheep on the right be blessed, by faith “alone” without works or faith in action?
Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger [foreigner] and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ (Matthew 25:34-36 ESV)
Did Jesus commend the sheep for faith that did nothing or faith that did things?
Then those who are righteous will reply to him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you a drink? When did we see you as a stranger and welcome you, or naked and give you clothes to wear? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ Then the king will reply to them, ‘I assure you that when you have done it for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you have done it for me.’ (Matthew 25:37-40 CEB)
What did Jesus say to the goats on the left?
Then He will also say to those on the left, ‘Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels! For I was hungry and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty and you gave Me nothing to drink; I was a stranger and you didn’t take Me in; I was naked and you didn’t clothe Me, sick and in prison and you didn’t take care of Me.’ (Matthew 25:41-43 HCSB)
How will He answer their natural question? Was their problem possibly faith without accompanying works?
Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. (Matthew 25:44-46 KJV)
Is there really a difference between Protestants and the ancient churches on this issue? Could it be as some have said, that Protestants believe good works follow faith, and Catholics and Orthodox believe faith and good works are simultaneous? We all believe that salvation is a free gift, that we are saved by grace through faith, not BY our good works.
Yet, a living faith is rich in good works, and a dead faith lacks good works or even does evil works. A living faith is not a faith that is “alone,” not a dead faith, and on judgment day, the evidence of that faith will be our good works. Does faith prompt us to do good things?
So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. (2 Thessalonians 1:11 NLT)
We all fall far short of perfection and need the sacrifice of Jesus to cover our sins. But, have you repented and put your trust in God? Is that repentance and faith evidenced by a change in the direction of your life from evil to good works? You decide!
… The dead were judged out of the things which were written in the books, according to their works. The sea gave up the dead who were in it. Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them. They were judged, each one according to his works. (Revelation 20:12-13 WEB)
There are works of the law and good works of obedience to Christ. Are there also wicked works?
Do not incline my heart to any evil thing, To practice wicked works With men who work iniquity; And do not let me eat of their delicacies. (Psalm 141:4 NKJV)
Are evil works also called works of the flesh?
Now the works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar. I tell you about these things in advance—as I told you before—that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21 HCSB)
Are evil works also called works of darkness?
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. (Ephesians 5:11 NKJV)
What fruit comes from the Holy Spirit? Is this just an emotion or how Christians behave?
God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. There is no law against behaving in any of these ways. And because we belong to Christ Jesus, we have killed our selfish feelings and desires. (Galatians 5:22-24 CEV)
Are good works then a fruit?
so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:10 NASB)
Is a claim to repentance meaningless without the fruit of a changed life?
Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ … (Luke 3:7-9 NKJV)
Do many profess God, but what they do reveals the opposite?
They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work. (Titus 1:16 ESV)
We are not saved BY our works, but our works are evidence of repentance and a living faith, they are what we have been called to, and that’s why our works are the criteria whereby we will be judged.
Sheep and Goats
Does the parable of the sheep and goats also reveal how everyone will be judged when Jesus returns? Does it also contradict a dead faith without works?
When the Son of Man comes in his glory with all his angels, he will sit on his royal throne. The people of all nations will be brought before him, and he will separate them, as shepherds separate their sheep from their goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. (Matthew 25:31-33 CEV)
How will the sheep on the right be blessed, by faith “alone” without works or faith in action?
Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger [foreigner] and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ (Matthew 25:34-36 ESV)
Did Jesus commend the sheep for faith that did nothing or faith that did things?
Then those who are righteous will reply to him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you a drink? When did we see you as a stranger and welcome you, or naked and give you clothes to wear? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ Then the king will reply to them, ‘I assure you that when you have done it for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you have done it for me.’ (Matthew 25:37-40 CEB)
What did Jesus say to the goats on the left?
Then He will also say to those on the left, ‘Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels! For I was hungry and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty and you gave Me nothing to drink; I was a stranger and you didn’t take Me in; I was naked and you didn’t clothe Me, sick and in prison and you didn’t take care of Me.’ (Matthew 25:41-43 HCSB)
How will He answer their natural question? Was their problem possibly faith without accompanying works?
Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal. (Matthew 25:44-46 KJV)
Is there really a difference between Protestants and the ancient churches on this issue? Could it be as some have said, that Protestants believe good works follow faith, and Catholics and Orthodox believe faith and good works are simultaneous? We all believe that salvation is a free gift, that we are saved by grace through faith, not BY our good works.
Yet, a living faith is rich in good works, and a dead faith lacks good works or even does evil works. A living faith is not a faith that is “alone,” not a dead faith, and on judgment day, the evidence of that faith will be our good works. Does faith prompt us to do good things?
So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. (2 Thessalonians 1:11 NLT)
We all fall far short of perfection and need the sacrifice of Jesus to cover our sins. But, have you repented and put your trust in God? Is that repentance and faith evidenced by a change in the direction of your life from evil to good works? You decide!
A Living Faith (Bible E-Course - Good Works)
Is faith a dead, intellectual belief without works or alive with good works of obedience to Christ? Martin Luther added the word alone to scripture as follows:
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith [ALONE] apart from the deeds of the law. (Romans 3:28 NKJV)
This then became a Protestant mantra, faith alone, in Latin sola fide. But James appears to contradict that.
You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. (James 2:24 ESV, NASB)
Does Jesus command good works? Why?
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 ESV)
Can our motive be wrong?
When you do good deeds, don't try to show off. If you do, you won't get a reward from your Father in heaven. (Matthew 6:1 CEV)
Simple belief in God grows to become faith (trust and faithfulness). Trust involves obedience. Faithfulness involves obedience. Are we created for good works?
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10 KJV)
Are good works different from works of the law?
know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified. (Galatians 2:16 NIV)
Was God’s kindness in saving us based on our righteous works or His mercy?
… he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy …(Titus 3:4-5 ESV)
Living faith is alive with good deeds. Without good deeds, we will be judged unfaithful on judgment day. Are works of the law different?
However, we know that a person isn’t made righteous [justified] by the works of the Law but rather through the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. We ourselves believed in Christ Jesus so that we could be made righteous by the faithfulness of Christ and not by the works of the Law—because no one will be made righteous by the works of the Law. (Galatians 2:16 CEB)
What are the works or deeds of the law?
For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.” (Galatians 3:10 ESV)
Was the law bad?
What then shall we say? That the law is sin? By no means! Yet if it had not been for the law, I would not have known sin. For I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.” (Romans 7:7 ESV)
What is sin?
Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. (1 John 3:4 KJV)
This is puzzling. Why was the law added?
Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. (Galatians 3:19 KJV)
Was the law added because of transgression of something that didn’t yet exist? Let’s look at a more accurate translation.
Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness. (1 John 3:4 NKJV)
Was there a universal law before the law from Mount Sinai?
Abram believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness. (Genesis 15:6 HCSB)
Did Abraham believe but not obey God?
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. (Hebrews 11:8 NIV)
Men divide the law into moral, ceremonial and civil categories. Does the New Testament speak of the law as a whole, the letter and Spirit of the whole law?
He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. (2 Corinthians 3:6 NIV)
Could spiritual circumcision of the heart be an example?
… a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by the Spirit … (Romans 2:29 NLT)
What really counts, the work of being circumcised in the flesh or something else?
It doesn’t matter whether we have been circumcised or not. What counts is whether we have been transformed into a new creation. (Galatians 6:15 NLT)
Could all 613 laws in the Old Testament have a spiritual application? Does Jeremiah give us a clue to this?
But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. (Jeremiah 31:33 NKJV)
A Sabbath day is nowhere commanded in the New Testament. Though a day off is wise, a particular day is nowhere commanded in the New Testament. Is the Sabbath command also transformed into a spiritual rest?
Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29 WEB)
Do the sacrifices point to a better sacrifice?
… when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God … (Hebrews 10:11-13 ESV)
What is true spiritual worship?
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. (Romans 12:1 ESV)
Do the days of unleavened bread take on a new spiritual meaning?
Clean out the old yeast so you can be a new batch of dough, given that you’re supposed to be unleavened bread. Christ our Passover lamb has been sacrificed, so let’s celebrate the feast with the unleavened bread of honesty and truth, not with old yeast or with the yeast of evil and wickedness. (1 Corinthians 5:7-8 CEB)
The new covenant is about the heart not the flesh, the Spirit not the letter. Though we are not saved BY good works, are we saved FOR good works?
For we are His creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10 HCSB)
Are there penalties and rewards for doing evil or good?
There will be tribulation and distress for every soul of mankind who does evil, for the Jew first and also for the Greek, but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who does what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For there is no partiality with God. (Romans 2:9-11 NASB)
Does a lack of works prove that some people who profess God, really deny Him?
To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure; but both their minds and their consciences are defiled. They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work. (Titus 1:15-16 ESV)
Though we are not saved BY good works, yet does a zeal FOR good works confirm a Christian life?
He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for Himself a people for His own possession, eager to do good works. (Titus 2:14 HCSB)
Having been justified by faith may we then neglect good works?
This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men. (Titus 3:8 NKJV)
To what do Christians motivate each other?
Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. (Hebrews 10:24 NLT)
Do good works lead others to glorify God?
Conduct yourselves honorably among the Gentiles, so that in a case where they speak against you as those who do what is evil, they will, by observing your good works, glorify God on the day of visitation. (1 Peter 2:12 HCSB)
We are not saved BY good works, but FOR good works. They are a light to the world, and bring God glory. Are your deeds good or evil or a bit of both? You decide!
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith [ALONE] apart from the deeds of the law. (Romans 3:28 NKJV)
This then became a Protestant mantra, faith alone, in Latin sola fide. But James appears to contradict that.
You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. (James 2:24 ESV, NASB)
Does Jesus command good works? Why?
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 ESV)
Can our motive be wrong?
When you do good deeds, don't try to show off. If you do, you won't get a reward from your Father in heaven. (Matthew 6:1 CEV)
Simple belief in God grows to become faith (trust and faithfulness). Trust involves obedience. Faithfulness involves obedience. Are we created for good works?
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10 KJV)
Are good works different from works of the law?
know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified. (Galatians 2:16 NIV)
Was God’s kindness in saving us based on our righteous works or His mercy?
… he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy …(Titus 3:4-5 ESV)
Living faith is alive with good deeds. Without good deeds, we will be judged unfaithful on judgment day. Are works of the law different?
However, we know that a person isn’t made righteous [justified] by the works of the Law but rather through the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. We ourselves believed in Christ Jesus so that we could be made righteous by the faithfulness of Christ and not by the works of the Law—because no one will be made righteous by the works of the Law. (Galatians 2:16 CEB)
What are the works or deeds of the law?
For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them.” (Galatians 3:10 ESV)
Was the law bad?
What then shall we say? That the law is sin? By no means! Yet if it had not been for the law, I would not have known sin. For I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.” (Romans 7:7 ESV)
What is sin?
Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. (1 John 3:4 KJV)
This is puzzling. Why was the law added?
Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. (Galatians 3:19 KJV)
Was the law added because of transgression of something that didn’t yet exist? Let’s look at a more accurate translation.
Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness. (1 John 3:4 NKJV)
Was there a universal law before the law from Mount Sinai?
Abram believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness. (Genesis 15:6 HCSB)
Did Abraham believe but not obey God?
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. (Hebrews 11:8 NIV)
Men divide the law into moral, ceremonial and civil categories. Does the New Testament speak of the law as a whole, the letter and Spirit of the whole law?
He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. (2 Corinthians 3:6 NIV)
Could spiritual circumcision of the heart be an example?
… a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not merely obeying the letter of the law; rather, it is a change of heart produced by the Spirit … (Romans 2:29 NLT)
What really counts, the work of being circumcised in the flesh or something else?
It doesn’t matter whether we have been circumcised or not. What counts is whether we have been transformed into a new creation. (Galatians 6:15 NLT)
Could all 613 laws in the Old Testament have a spiritual application? Does Jeremiah give us a clue to this?
But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. (Jeremiah 31:33 NKJV)
A Sabbath day is nowhere commanded in the New Testament. Though a day off is wise, a particular day is nowhere commanded in the New Testament. Is the Sabbath command also transformed into a spiritual rest?
Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28-29 WEB)
Do the sacrifices point to a better sacrifice?
… when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God … (Hebrews 10:11-13 ESV)
What is true spiritual worship?
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. (Romans 12:1 ESV)
Do the days of unleavened bread take on a new spiritual meaning?
Clean out the old yeast so you can be a new batch of dough, given that you’re supposed to be unleavened bread. Christ our Passover lamb has been sacrificed, so let’s celebrate the feast with the unleavened bread of honesty and truth, not with old yeast or with the yeast of evil and wickedness. (1 Corinthians 5:7-8 CEB)
The new covenant is about the heart not the flesh, the Spirit not the letter. Though we are not saved BY good works, are we saved FOR good works?
For we are His creation, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10 HCSB)
Are there penalties and rewards for doing evil or good?
There will be tribulation and distress for every soul of mankind who does evil, for the Jew first and also for the Greek, but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who does what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For there is no partiality with God. (Romans 2:9-11 NASB)
Does a lack of works prove that some people who profess God, really deny Him?
To the pure, all things are pure, but to the defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure; but both their minds and their consciences are defiled. They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work. (Titus 1:15-16 ESV)
Though we are not saved BY good works, yet does a zeal FOR good works confirm a Christian life?
He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for Himself a people for His own possession, eager to do good works. (Titus 2:14 HCSB)
Having been justified by faith may we then neglect good works?
This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men. (Titus 3:8 NKJV)
To what do Christians motivate each other?
Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. (Hebrews 10:24 NLT)
Do good works lead others to glorify God?
Conduct yourselves honorably among the Gentiles, so that in a case where they speak against you as those who do what is evil, they will, by observing your good works, glorify God on the day of visitation. (1 Peter 2:12 HCSB)
We are not saved BY good works, but FOR good works. They are a light to the world, and bring God glory. Are your deeds good or evil or a bit of both? You decide!
Free Will (Bible E-Course)
Potter
Are we like clay in the hands of the master potter? Does that mean we don’t have free will or can the clay be stubborn and unworkable?
And whenever the clay would not take the shape he wanted, he would change his mind and form it into some other shape. (Jeremiah 18:4 CEV)
What did the clay say to the potter?
But the people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires.” (Jeremiah 18:12 NLT)
From the beginning, did God give Adam and Eve the freedom to choose whether or not to obey Him?
And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die [or dying you shall die].” (Genesis 2:16-17 ESV)
Some say that free will is not even in the Bible. What does the Bible actually say?
So the Israelites brought a freewill offering to the Lord… (Exodus 35:29 HCSB)
Was free will involved in a burnt offering?
… he shall offer it of his own free will … (Leviticus 1:3 NKJV)
Does God even demand that they offer of their own will?
… ye shall offer it at your own will. (Leviticus 19:5 KJV)
Did God place a choice before ancient Israel?
See, I am placing before you today a blessing and a curse: the blessing, if you listen to the commandments of the Lord your God, which I am commanding you today; and the curse, if you do not listen … (Deuteronomy 11:26-28 NASB)
Was that choice not just to hear but also to obey?
… All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God… (Deuteronomy 28:1-2, 15 NIV)
Choose
Was it God’s clear preference that they choose blessings rather than curses?
This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life … (Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NKJV)
Was serving God irresistible or were they encouraged to make a choice?
So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve … (Joshua 24:14-15 NLT)
Does everything, even our ability to choose come from God?
But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly as this? For all things come from you, and we have given you of your own. (1 Chronicles 29:14 WEB)
Can people resist or even ignore God’s call?
I will offer you to the sword. You will all bow down for slaughter, because I called and you didn’t answer; I spoke and you wouldn’t hear. You did what I considered evil, and chose what I didn’t want. (Isaiah 65:12 CEB)
Would God want people to stop something they cannot stop?
I will judge each of you for what you've done. So stop sinning, or else you will certainly be punished. Give up your evil ways and start thinking pure thoughts. And be faithful to me! Do you really want to be put to death for your sins? I, the Lord God, don't want to see that happen to anyone. So stop sinning and live! (Ezekiel 18:30-32 CEV)
Are people free to choose the fear of the Lord? Is evil in the world basically the fruit of humanity’s own way?
Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord, would have none of my counsel and despised all my reproof, therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way, and have their fill of their own devices. (Proverbs 1:29-31 ESV)
Did Jerusalem have free will to accept or reject Jesus?
Jerusalem, Jerusalem! You who kill the prophets and stone those who were sent to you. How often I wanted to gather your people together, just as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. But you didn’t want that. (Matthew 23:37 CEB)
Is being a follower of Jesus a free choice?
Summoning the crowd along with His disciples, He said to them, “If anyone wants to be My follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. (Mark 8:34 HCSB)
Did some choose to receive Christ?
He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:12-13 KJV)
Do some choose to believe in Jesus?
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16 NASB)
Does God draw men to Christ?
No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day. (John 6:44 NIV)
Who is drawn to Christ, only the elect or all?
And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself. (John 12:32 NKJV)
Must someone want to do God’s will?
Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own. (John 7:17 NLT)
Is the forensic evidence for God’s existence ubiquitous and obvious, but men choose to suppress this truth?
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 of God is revealed in them, for God revealed it to them. (Romans 1:18-19 WEB)
In choosing to ignore the obvious, are people deluded that they are wise?
Ever since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities—God’s eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, because they are understood through the things God has made. So humans are without excuse. Although they knew God, they didn’t honor God as God or thank him. Instead, their reasoning became pointless, and their foolish hearts were darkened. While they were claiming to be wise, they made fools of themselves. (Romans 1:20-22 CEB)
What has been the result? Read the rest of Romans 1 and make your own mind up.
Predestination
Did God know in advance those who would choose to follow him and those who would choose not to follow him?
For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son … (Romans 8:29-30 ESV)
Is our choice dependent upon God’s mercy?
Everything then depends on God's mercy and not on what people want or do. (Romans 9:16 CEV)
Like the potter who predestined the clay for a fine work, did God purpose us for adoption?
For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption … (Ephesians 1:4-5, 11 NIV)
Does God want everyone to be saved?
For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved … (1 Timothy 2:3-4 NKJV)
What is God’s desire?
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9 NIV)
So what does God do about His desire for everyone to come to repentance? If He knocks, must we choose to open?
Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. (Revelation 3:20 NLT)
God’s sovereignty is greater than turning us into robots who cannot resist His grace. He gave us ubiquitous evidence of His eternal power and divine nature and a choice between atheistic self-delusion and knowing Him. He commands us to choose. What is your choice? You decide!
Are we like clay in the hands of the master potter? Does that mean we don’t have free will or can the clay be stubborn and unworkable?
And whenever the clay would not take the shape he wanted, he would change his mind and form it into some other shape. (Jeremiah 18:4 CEV)
What did the clay say to the potter?
But the people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires.” (Jeremiah 18:12 NLT)
From the beginning, did God give Adam and Eve the freedom to choose whether or not to obey Him?
And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of every tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die [or dying you shall die].” (Genesis 2:16-17 ESV)
Some say that free will is not even in the Bible. What does the Bible actually say?
So the Israelites brought a freewill offering to the Lord… (Exodus 35:29 HCSB)
Was free will involved in a burnt offering?
… he shall offer it of his own free will … (Leviticus 1:3 NKJV)
Does God even demand that they offer of their own will?
… ye shall offer it at your own will. (Leviticus 19:5 KJV)
Did God place a choice before ancient Israel?
See, I am placing before you today a blessing and a curse: the blessing, if you listen to the commandments of the Lord your God, which I am commanding you today; and the curse, if you do not listen … (Deuteronomy 11:26-28 NASB)
Was that choice not just to hear but also to obey?
… All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God… (Deuteronomy 28:1-2, 15 NIV)
Choose
Was it God’s clear preference that they choose blessings rather than curses?
This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life … (Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NKJV)
Was serving God irresistible or were they encouraged to make a choice?
So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve … (Joshua 24:14-15 NLT)
Does everything, even our ability to choose come from God?
But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly as this? For all things come from you, and we have given you of your own. (1 Chronicles 29:14 WEB)
Can people resist or even ignore God’s call?
I will offer you to the sword. You will all bow down for slaughter, because I called and you didn’t answer; I spoke and you wouldn’t hear. You did what I considered evil, and chose what I didn’t want. (Isaiah 65:12 CEB)
Would God want people to stop something they cannot stop?
I will judge each of you for what you've done. So stop sinning, or else you will certainly be punished. Give up your evil ways and start thinking pure thoughts. And be faithful to me! Do you really want to be put to death for your sins? I, the Lord God, don't want to see that happen to anyone. So stop sinning and live! (Ezekiel 18:30-32 CEV)
Are people free to choose the fear of the Lord? Is evil in the world basically the fruit of humanity’s own way?
Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the Lord, would have none of my counsel and despised all my reproof, therefore they shall eat the fruit of their way, and have their fill of their own devices. (Proverbs 1:29-31 ESV)
Did Jerusalem have free will to accept or reject Jesus?
Jerusalem, Jerusalem! You who kill the prophets and stone those who were sent to you. How often I wanted to gather your people together, just as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. But you didn’t want that. (Matthew 23:37 CEB)
Is being a follower of Jesus a free choice?
Summoning the crowd along with His disciples, He said to them, “If anyone wants to be My follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me. (Mark 8:34 HCSB)
Did some choose to receive Christ?
He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (John 1:12-13 KJV)
Do some choose to believe in Jesus?
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16 NASB)
Does God draw men to Christ?
No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day. (John 6:44 NIV)
Who is drawn to Christ, only the elect or all?
And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself. (John 12:32 NKJV)
Must someone want to do God’s will?
Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own. (John 7:17 NLT)
Is the forensic evidence for God’s existence ubiquitous and obvious, but men choose to suppress this truth?
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 of God is revealed in them, for God revealed it to them. (Romans 1:18-19 WEB)
In choosing to ignore the obvious, are people deluded that they are wise?
Ever since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities—God’s eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, because they are understood through the things God has made. So humans are without excuse. Although they knew God, they didn’t honor God as God or thank him. Instead, their reasoning became pointless, and their foolish hearts were darkened. While they were claiming to be wise, they made fools of themselves. (Romans 1:20-22 CEB)
What has been the result? Read the rest of Romans 1 and make your own mind up.
Predestination
Did God know in advance those who would choose to follow him and those who would choose not to follow him?
For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son … (Romans 8:29-30 ESV)
Is our choice dependent upon God’s mercy?
Everything then depends on God's mercy and not on what people want or do. (Romans 9:16 CEV)
Like the potter who predestined the clay for a fine work, did God purpose us for adoption?
For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption … (Ephesians 1:4-5, 11 NIV)
Does God want everyone to be saved?
For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved … (1 Timothy 2:3-4 NKJV)
What is God’s desire?
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9 NIV)
So what does God do about His desire for everyone to come to repentance? If He knocks, must we choose to open?
Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. (Revelation 3:20 NLT)
God’s sovereignty is greater than turning us into robots who cannot resist His grace. He gave us ubiquitous evidence of His eternal power and divine nature and a choice between atheistic self-delusion and knowing Him. He commands us to choose. What is your choice? You decide!
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