Tag: New Covenant

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How To Pray, Part 1 | Clothing, Location And Posture

We’re living and working in Indonesia, a nation that puts great emphasis on prayer. We are reminded of it six times a day when we hear the “call to prayer” sounded from loud speakers all around the city. In this country how, when and where one prays is important.

Prayer on Knees

In American “church” culture we can see some interesting traditions as well. Some groups pray to crucifixes, statues of Mary or other saints and kneel for certain prayers. Others seem to think praying in a ‘church’ building is more special than other places.

The Bible says that, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Tim 3:16-17). Prayer is definitely a good work, so lets see what the Bible has to say about it.

Obviously, this will not be a complete list, it is a blog post not a doctoral dissertation, so please add your comments in the comment section.

Proper clothing for prayer. We can observe some religious groups prescribing certain clothes for men and/or women to wear when they come to God in prayer. But, in the Bible we see people wearing a variety of clothing types when praying.

  • Dirty bloody clothing and chains (Acts 16:25)
  • Work clothes (Neh 2:4-5)
  • Sweaty military clothing (1 Chr 5:20)
  • Probably everyday clothes (Luke 6:12-13)

For a thorough study of the head covering see Kevin Moore’s five part series titled Female Head-coverings in 1 Corinthians 11:2-16.

While there is no prescribed special clothing that we must wear in prayer there are, of course, other principles found in Scripture that would govern the clothing we wear in prayer. For example, the principle of modesty should tell us that we should dress appropriate for the location we are at.

Location for prayer. For some groups a certain location and/or direction is important when praying. However, when we look at the Bible we see just about any location conceivable being used as a place of prayer. We see people praying in the following locations just to name a few.

  • Outside in a garden (Mat 26:36)
  • On the beach (Acts 21:5)
  • In a house (Acts 12:12)
  • On the battlefield (1 Chr 5:20)
  • At work (Neh 2:4-5)
  • In jail (Acts 16:25)

If we are to pray without ceasing (1 Thess 5:17) then any place we find ourselves is an appropriate place to pray.

Body posture in prayer. For some groups body position is very important. They even have prescribed postures at certain points of their prayers. Others may seem to think that raising their hands is more spiritual than other body positions. In the Bible we see the following body positions used in prayer.

  • Standing (1 Sam 1:26; Matt 6:5; Mark 11:25; Luke 18:11,13)
  • Standing bowing the head, while striking the breast (Luke 18:13)
  • Hands spread out and/or lifted heavenward (1 Kings 8:22-23; Neh 8:6)
  • Bowing the head (Neh 8:6)
  • Bowing the head, with face between the knees (1 Kings 18:42)
  • Lifting eyes heavenward (John 11:41; 17:1)
  • Kneeling (Dan 6:10; Luke 22:41; Acts 9:40, 20:36, 21:5; Eph 3:14)
  • Face on ground (Matt 26:39; Mark 14:35)

Hendriksen and Kistemaker have done an interesting job of interpreting the significance of some of the various body positions found in the Bible. Get their commentary here.

Brother Kevin Moore also has an excellent article on the subject of raising hands. Read it here.

When we read the Bible and use it as our only guide, it becomes clear that there is no prescribed special clothing, location, or posture that a New Testament Christian must follow when praying.

If you found this post helpful please spread the love by sharing it!

Question: What other examples from Scripture would you include for clothing, location and posture in prayer? Leave a comment by clicking here.

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Identifying the Church: Designation

Lesson 3e in the Personal Bible Study Series

Helpful Hints
This is a simple lesson that can be used before, instead of, or in addition to any of the above supplementary lessons.

Lesson 3e: Identifying the Church: Designation (PDF version)

Instructions: Read each passage of Scripture, then answer the questions underneath. For additional Scripture references, refer to the corresponding numbers at the end of the lesson.

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF A NAME

1. Isaiah 62:2

Was there to be a name by which the Lord would have His people called?

2. Philippians 2:5-11

What name is above every other name?

3. Acts 4:10-12

Salvation is found only in whose name?

4. Acts 8:12; 9:15, 27, 29

Whose name is emphasized by Christ’s followers?

5. Colossians 3:17

All that we do is to be done in whose name?

 

WHAT SHOULD CHRIST’S FOLLOWERS BE CALLED?

6. Acts 11:26

What were early disciples called?

What is conveyed by this identification?

7. 1 Corinthians 1:9-13

What happens when believers wear different names?

Does this honor Christ?

 

THE CHURCH

8. Matthew 16:16-18

Whose church did Jesus promise to build?

To whom does this church belong?

9. Ephesians 5:23

Who is the head of Christ’s church?

10. 1 Corinthians 12:27

The church is described as the body of whom?

Whose name should the church wear?

 

WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING NAMES CAN YOU FIND IN THE BIBLE TO DESCRIBE FOLLOWERS OF CHRIST?

  • Catholics 
  • Pentecostals 
  • 7th-day Adventists
  • Protestants 
  • Apostolic 
  • Mormons
  • Anglicans 
  • Jehovah’s Witnesses
  • Presbyterians 
  • Mennonites 
  • Methodists 
  • Quakers 
  • Christian Scientists
  • Lutherans 
  • Congregationalists 
  • Ratana
  • Episcopalians 
  • Greek Orthodox 
  • Salvation Army
  • Baptists 
  • Russian Orthodox 
  • Wesleyans

Which of these names give honor to the Lord?

 

WHICH OF THESE DESCRIPTIVE TERMS CAN YOU FIND IN THE BIBLE?

  • The body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:27) 
  • Christians (Acts 11:26)
  • The churches of Christ (Rom. 16:16 )
  • Disciples (Acts 6:1, 7)
  • The churches of God (1 Cor. 11:16) 
  • Believers (Acts 5:14)
  • The church of Christ (Matt. 16:16-18) 
  • Heirs of God (Rom. 8:17)
  • The church of God (1 Cor. 1:2) 
  • Servants of Christ (Eph 6:6)
  • The kingdom of God and Christ (Eph. 5:5)
  • The kingdom of the Son of His love (Col. 1:13)

 Do these designations honor the Lord?

 

CONCLUSION

A. Does the Bible indicate that what we are called as Christ’s disciples is important?

B. Whose name do you want to wear?

C. Are there any man-made religious designations that are important to you?

Note: While the name we wear is important, there are other identifying characteristics of faithful disciples of Jesus. A person or group may wear the name of Christ, but if they are not faithful to all of Christ’s teachings, they are not wearing his name legitimately
(Matt. 7:21; John 8:31).

 

Additional Scripture References

  1. Isaiah 56:5; 65:15; James 2:7; Acts 11:26
  2. Ephesians 1:20-21; Hebrews 1:1-4; Colossians 3:11
  3. Acts 2:38; 10:43; 2 Timothy 2:10; Colossians 3:4
  4. Acts 4:2, 17-18; 5:28, 40, 42; 8:5, 35; 1 Cor. 1:23; 2:2; Phil. 1:18
  5. Matthew 28:18; 1 Corinthians 3:11; Acts 4:7-10
  6. Acts 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16; James 2:7
  7. John 17:20-23; 1 Corinthians 3:1-5; 11:17-19; 12:25
  8. 1 Corinthians 1:13; Eph. 4:4; 5:23-29; Col. 1:24; Galatians 1:3-12
  9. Matthew 28:18; Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:23; Colossians 1:18
  10. Ephesians 1:23; 3:6; Colossians 1:24; Romans 16:16

 

“If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).

 

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Identifying the Church: Lord’s Supper

Lesson 3c in the Personal Bible Study Series

Helpful Hints
In this lesson, if the student agrees that it would be wrong to add elements to the Lord’s Supper (#7), this can be used to further illustrate the point of the previous lesson. It also shows a difference between the weekly observance of the Lord’s Supper and what is practiced by most denominations.

Lesson 3b: Identifying the Church: Lord’s Supper (PDF version)

Instructions: Read each passage of Scripture, then answer the questions underneath. For additional Scripture references, refer to the corresponding numbers at the end of the lesson.

 

REMEMBERING CHRIST’S DEATH

1. 1 Corinthians 2:2

Is the crucifixion of Christ a significant event for Christians?

Why is this so?

2. 1 Corinthians 11:23-29

What are Christians instructed to do in order to remember Christ’s death?

This must be done with what frame of mind?

 Is this to be done when Christians assemble together? (cf. vs. 18, 20)

 Is this a collective activity, an individual responsibility, or both?

 Is this something that is to be done “often”?

 

HOW OFTEN?

3. 1 Corinthians 16:1-2

How often did these Christians assemble together?

Note: The Greek phrase katamian sabbatôn in v. 2 literally means “every first day of the week.”

4. Acts 20:7

What was the purpose of this Christian assembly on the first day of the week?

 

REASONING FROM THE SCRIPTURES

5. Exodus 20:8-10

When the Jews were commanded to keep the Sabbath day holy, did this mean annually, monthly, or every week?

Consider the following:

  1. The church at Corinth was instructed to observe the Lord’s Supper as often as they assembled for worship (1 Cor. 11:18-26).
  2. They assembled every first day of the week (1 Cor. 16:1-2; cf. Acts 20:6-7).
  3. Other early Christians assembled on the first day of the week to observe the Lord’s Supper (Acts 20:7).

Therefore, how often should Christians today observe the Lord’s Supper?

 

THE ELEMENTS OF THE LORD’S SUPPER

6. Matthew 26:17, 26-29

What kind of bread did Jesus use? (cf. Ex. 12:20)

What was in the cup? (cf. Gen. 40:9-11).

What does the bread represent?

What does the fruit of the vine represent?

 

PROCLAIMING THE LORD’S DEATH

7. 1 Corinthians 11:24-26

How are Christians to remember and proclaim the Lord’s death?

How long is this to be done?

8. Matthew 7:24-27

What is required to be a true follower of Jesus?

If someone fails to do what the Lord says, the way He says to do it, is this person a true follower of Jesus?

 

CONCLUSION

A. Does the Bible teach that the weekly observance of the Lord’s Supper is an important part of being a member of Christ’s church?

B. Do you want this to be a part of your obedient response to the Lord?

 

Additional Scripture References

  1. Rom. 5:6-11; 1 Cor. 1:23; 15:1-4; Gal. 6:14; 1 Peter 2:21-24; 3:18
  2. Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17
  3. Mark 16:9 (cf. 1 Cor. 15:17-20); John 20:1, 19; Acts 20:7
  4. Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 10:16; 11:20, 24-26
  5. John 4:23-24; Acts 2:42; 1 Cor. 14: 33, 40; Hebrews 10:23-25
  6. 1 Cor. 5:7-8; 10:16; 11:24-25; Gen. 49:11; Lev. 25:5; Num. 13:20; Song 2:13, 15; Isa. 5:1-4; Jer. 6:9; Rev. 14:18
  7. Matthew 26:26-29; John 8:31; 14:15; Galatians 2:20
  8. Matthew 7:21-23; 12:50; 15:8-9; 1 John 2:3-6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).

 

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Identifying the Church: Musical Praise

Lesson 3b in the Personal Bible Study Series

Helpful Hints
Most denominational people assume that instrumental music in Christian worship is acceptable. Some will be convinced otherwise after lesson 3a, but many will need further instruction.

The main purposes of this study are to illustrate another difference between man-made religious groups and the New Testament church, and to stress the importance of worshipping God acceptably (if or when the student decides to obey the gospel).

If the student is still not convinced, use other supplementary studies to test his/her attitude. For many people it just takes time to sink in.

Lesson 3b: Identifying the Church: Musical Praise (PDF version)

Instructions: Read each passage of Scripture, then answer the questions underneath. For additional Scripture references, refer to the corresponding numbers at the end of the lesson.

 

1. 2 Corinthians 3:12-16

Does the Old Testament serve as today’s model and guide for Christian life and worship?

Which part of the Bible, the Old or New Testament, is our final authority today? [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][Refer to Lessons 1 and 1b if necessary]

How can we find out about the kind of musical praise God desires in Christian worship?

2. After reading each passage that relates to the kind of musical praise sanctioned in the NT, mark the appropriate column.

Vocal? Instrumental? Both?
  Matthew 26:30
  Mark 14:26
  Acts 16:25
  Romans 15:9
  1 Corinthians 14:15
  Ephesians 5:19
  Colossians 3:16
  Hebrews 2:12
  James 5:13

 

3. Galatians 3:10-11; 5:1-4 [Note: “the law” = the old covenant, Heb. 9:18-22]

If a person adopts an Old Testament religious practice that is not authorized in the NT, is that person obliged to keep the whole OT law?

What is the spiritual condition of those who attempt to go back under the old law?

Which of the following OT practices should be adopted into Christianity today

Old Testament Practice                     New Testament Teaching

□ Musical Instruments Psa. 150              Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16

□ Dancing Ex. 15:20; Psa. 149:3            1 Corinthians 14:40; James 5:13

□ Animal Sacrifices Lev. 1:1-17              Romans 12:1-2; Hebrews 9:28

□ Burning Incense Mal. 1:11                   Revelation 5:8; 8:3-4

□ 7th-day Sabbath Ex. 20:8-11              1 Corinthians 16:1-2; Acts 20:7

□ Circumcision Gen. 17:10-14                Romans 2:28-29; 1 Corinthians 7:19

□ Jewish feasts Ex. 23:14-19                  Colossians 2:14-17; 1 Cor. 11:26

□ Killing the disobedient Deut. 21:21       2 Thessalonians 3:6, 13-15

□ Food restrictions Deut. 14:8-10            1 Timothy 4:1-5; Acts 10:12-16

□ Tithing Num. 18:26; Mal. 3:10               1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Cor. 9:7

□ Levitical priesthood Ex. 40:15               Hebrews 7:12; 1 Peter 2:5-9

□ Polygamy Ex. 21:10; 2 Sam. 5:13         1 Corinthians 7:2; Ephesians 5:23

□ Jerusalem temple Isa. 44:28                 Acts 17:24; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

□ Jew/Gentile distinction Eph. 2:11-12    Galatians 3:26-28; Eph. 2:13-19

 Why or why not?

 4. Matthew 26:17, 26-30

The Lord has specified what two elements for the Lord’s supper?

 Which of the following ingredients would be permissible to substitute for or add to the Lord’s supper?

□ potatoes

□ cake

□ lemonade

□ jelly beans

□ peanut butter

□ coffee

□ water

□other?

Why or why not?

What verse in the New Testament authorizes any of the above?

Since the New Testament specifies heart-based singing as the form of musical praise in Christian worship, which of the following would bempermissible to substitute for or add to it?

□ piano

□ guitar

□ bagpipes

□ dancing

□ organ

□ drums

□ fireworks

□ other?

Why or why not?

What verse in the New Testament authorizes any of the above?

5. In the absence of any NT authority, the modern-day practice of worshipping God with man-made musical instruments is based on whose authority?

□ OT worship (1 Chron. 15:16) □ Roman Catholic innovation (Rev. 22:18)

□ Ancient paganism (Dan. 3:5, 15) □ Personal preference (Jer. 10:23)

If you are still unsure, would you have an objection to singing praises to God in worship without the accompaniment of musical instruments?

 

Additional Scripture References and Information

  1. Rom. 7:1-7; Gal. 3:19-25; Eph. 2:11-16; Col. 2:13-17; Hebrews 7:12; 8:6-13; 9:1-15
  2. John 4:23-24; Heb. 13:15. Note: All NT references to musical instruments (e.g. Luke 7:32; 1 Cor. 14:7; Rev. 14:2) are used for illustrative purposes or to symbolize things other than Christian worship.
  3. Heb. 7:12; 8:6-13; 10:1-10; James 2:10. Note: In John 10:34 and 15:25 Jesus quoted Psalms 82:6 and 69:4, attributing both of these passages to the Jewish “law.”
  4. 1 Co. 4:6; 11:23-26; Rv. 22:18-19; cf. Gen. 4:3-5 (He. 11:4); Lev. 10:1-3; He. 7:12-16
  5. Prov. 3:5; 14:12; Acts 17:24-25. Note: While instrumental music in ancient times was common among infidels (Gen. 4:21; Job 21:12; Dan. 3:5-15), it was adopted in Jewish celebrations only after the Israelites had spent over two centuries with the Egyptians (Ex. 15:20; Judg. 11:34). It was David who introduced musical instruments into Israel’s corporate worship (1 Chron. 15:16; Ezra 3:10), but whether or not this ever had divine sanction is a matter of dispute (cf. Amos 6:1-5). Nevertheless, singing from the heart is the only kind of worship-music authorized in the new covenant of Jesus Christ, and church history attests to a cappella singing as the only form of musical praise in Christian worship for several hundred years after the time of Christ. It was not until the mid-7th century AD that the organ was first introduced into Roman Catholic worship, although it did not become commonplace until after the 8th century. Early Reformation leaders strongly opposed mechanical instruments in worship as a Roman Catholic innovation, but by the 1800s most Protestant denominations had gradually adopted the practice. Those committed to the restoration of NT Christianity, however, have rejected all unauthorized additions or alterations to the simple NT pattern.

 

“If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).

 

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Contrasting the Old and New Covenants

Lesson 1b in the Personal Bible Study Series

Helpful Hints
This lesson is for those who are reluctant to accept that the Old Covenant, including the 10 Commandments, is now obsolete (e.g. 7th-Day Adventists). If the student is still not convinced at the end of lesson 1b, this may indicate a closed mind. 

Lesson 1b: Contrasting the Old and New Covenants (PDF version)

Instructions: Read each passage of Scripture, then answer the questions underneath. For additional Scripture references, refer to the corresponding numbers at the end of the lesson.

1. Exodus 34:27-28

With whom did God make this covenant?

Did this covenant include the Ten Commandments?

2. Joshua 23:14-16

Were the promises of this covenant conditional?

3. Jeremiah 11:8-11

Was Israel faithful to God’s covenant?

4. Jeremiah 31:31-34

Did God promise to make a new covenant?

Was this covenant to be different from the previous one?

5. Hebrews 8:6-13

Did the new covenant of Christ replace the old covenant of the Jews?

DID THE OLD COVENANT CONSIST OF TWO SEPARATE LAWS: A PERMANENT “MORAL LAW” & A TEMPORARY “CEREMONIAL LAW”? OR WAS THERE A SINGLE LAW FOR ANCIENT ISRAEL CONTAINING MORAL & CEREMONIAL ASPECTS? LET’S CONSIDER WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS . . . .

6. Deuteronomy 5:1-2; Malachi 4:4

Is the covenant, which God made with Israel, also called “the Law of Moses”?

7. Nehemiah 8:1, 8, 14, 18

How is the old covenant law described?

 the Law of Moses

 the Law of God

 the Law

Is there a distinction made between a “Moral Law” and a “Ceremonial Law”?

8. Romans 2:17-18

How many “laws” did the Jews have? *

*Note: Jesus even considered the book of Psalms to be part of that law: John 10:34; 15:25 (cf. Psalm 82:6; 69:4).

9. Romans 2:21-25

Which of the following were contained in “the law”?

 Do not steal

 Do not commit adultery

 No idols

 Circumcision

Were the 10 commandments recorded in a “moral law” and circumcision in a separate “ceremonial law,” or did the one law contain both?

10. Romans 3:20-22

Are we, today, justified by that law?

11. Romans 7:4-7

What does Paul mean when he says that we have become dead to the law (v. 4) and have been delivered from the law (v. 6)?

Is this the same law that contains the Ten Commandments? (v. 7; cf. Exodus 20:17)

12. Galatians 3:10; 5:3

If a person wants to observe any part of the law, is he obliged to observe all of the law?

13. Which of the following are we to observe from the law today?

 7th-Day Sabbath Exodus 20:8-11

 Animal sacrifices Exodus 20:24

 Slavery Exodus 21:7

 Polygamy Exodus 21:10

 Stoning transgressors to death Exodus 21:29

 Three annual feasts Exodus 23:14-17

 Daily offerings Exodus 29:38-42

 Death for Sabbath-breaker Exodus 31:15; 35:2

 Forbidden foods Leviticus 11:4-47

 Circumcision Leviticus 12:3

 Death penalty for immorality Leviticus 19:20; 20:10

 Levitical priesthood Numbers 3:1-13

 Tithing Numbers 18:25-32

 Dancing/musical instruments Psalm 149:3; 150:4

 Daily incense Malachi 1:11

 If you chose any of the above, should you observe all of the above? Explain.

14. Galatians 5:1-4

What is the consequence of trying to follow the old law?

 

Additional Scripture References

  1. Deuteronomy 4:13; 5:1-22; 9:9-10; 1 Kings 8:9, 21
  2. Leviticus 26:14-39; Deut. 11:26-28; 28:15 ff.; 1 Kgs. 9:6-7; Jer. 22:5-9
  3. Josh 7:11; Judg 2:20; 2 Kgs. 17:22-23; Isa 42:24; 65:2; Jer. 31:32; Hosea 4:1; 8:1
  4. Zechariah 11:10; Hosea 2:11; Malachi 3:1; Hebrews 8:7-12
  5. Ephesians 2:15; Hebrews 7:12, 18-19, 22; 9:15; 10:9
  6. Deuteronomy 4:44-45; 33:4, 9; Joshua 23:6; Ezra 7:6; Heb. 9:18-22
  7. 2 Chronicles 31:3; Daniel 9:11; Luke 2:22-23
  8. John 1:17; 7:19; Romans 3:19; 4:13-16
  9. Genesis 17:10-14; Ex. 20:3-4, 14, 15, 23-24; Acts 15:1, 5; Phil. 3:3-9
  10. Acts 13:39; Romans 3:28-30; 8:3; Galatians 2:16; Hebrews 10:1
  11. Galatians 2:19-21; 3:22-25; 4:21-31; Col. 2:14-17; 2 Cor. 3:5-16
  12. Romans 2:21-25; James 2:10-11
  13.  Galatians 2:16, 21; 3:11-14; Hebrews 10:1, 8-10

 “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).

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Final Authority of the Scriptures

Lesson 1a in the Personal Bible Study Series

Helpful Hints
This lesson is to be used if the student is reluctant to accept the Bible as our sole standard of authority, whether he/she is inclined to consider other religious writings as authoritative, or is swayed by subjective feelings, or is heavily influenced by the Pentecostal idea of direct guidance from the Holy Spirit. In the latter case, you may want to share “The Work of the Holy Spirit” lessons in the Special Studies series (coming soon).

Lesson 1a: The Final Authority of Scripture (PDF version)

Instructions: Read each passage of Scripture, then answer the questions underneath. For additional Scripture references, refer to the corresponding numbers at the end of the lesson.

1. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

What does the Bible claim for itself?

How much of Scripture is inspired of God?

Is the word of God complete?

 

WHAT CONSTITUTES “SCRIPTURE”?

2. 1 Timothy 5:18

Does Paul quote from the Old Testament? (cf. Deut. 25:4)

Does he also quote from the New Testament? (cf. Luke 10:7)

Does he refer to both of them as “Scripture”?

3. Jude 3

What is “the faith”? (cf. Acts 6:7; Col. 1:23)

How often has this system of faith been delivered?

4. Galatians 1:6-9

Is any other religious message (“gospel”) acceptable to God?

5. 1 Peter 1:25

Is there a legitimate reason to believe that any part of God’s word, which He intended us to have, is not in the Bible?

 

THE WRITTEN WORD

6. 1 Corinthians 4:6

Is there an emphasis on the written word?

7. 2 Peter 3:1-2

Why is the written word important?

8. John 20:30-31

What is the purpose of the written word?

9. Matthew 7:15, 21-23

Why should we be cautious about those who claim to receive new revelations from God today?

10. Acts 17:11

What standard should be used to determine truth?

 

THE POWER OF THE WORD

11. Hebrews 4:12

Is the Bible a lifeless document?

12. Ephesians 6:17

Which of the following has given life & power to the Bible’s message?

 The paper and ink

 The human writers

 The Holy Spirit

 

THE ULTIMATE STANDARD

13. Matthew 28:18

Who has been given all authority?

14. 2 Corinthians 5:10

Who will judge you on the last day?

15. John 12:48

By what standard will Christ judge you?

 

CONCLUSION

A. Do you believe that the Bible is the complete, inspired word of God?

B. Are you willing to accept whatever the Bible says as truth?

 

Additional Scripture References

  1. Ephesians 3:1-5; 2 Peter 1:3, 16-21; Hebrews 4:12; 10:15-17
  2. Luke 24:27; 2 Peter 3:15-16; Romans 16:25-26
  3. Acts 13:7-12; Galatians 1:23; 2:2; cf. Hebrews 9:27-28
  4. Deuteronomy 4:2; Proverbs 30:5-6; Revelation 22:18-19
  5. Matthew 24:35; John 8:31-32; 2 Peter 1:3; 2 John 2
  6. Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 14:37; Rev. 1:10-11, 19; cf. Rom. 1:17; 3:4, 10; 4:23; 15:3, 9; 1 Cor. 15:54; 2 Cor. 4:13; Heb. 10:7
  7. Exodus 24:4, 7; Deuteronomy 17:18-20; Luke 1:1-4; 1 Cor. 10:11; 2 Cor. 13:10; 1 John 1:1-4; Revelation 1:3
  8. Romans 10:17; 1 Timothy 3:14-15; 2 Timothy 3:15-17
  9. Matthew 24:24; 2 Thess. 2:9-12; 2 Peter 2:1-2; 1 John 4:1; cf. Deuteronomy 13:1-5; 18:20-22; 1 Kings 13:18
  10. John 8:31-32; 1 John 2:3-5; 2 John 9; 1 Thess. 5:21
  11. Romans 1:16-17; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 1 Peter 1:22-23
  12. John 14:25-26; 16:12-13; Ephesians 3:3-5; 2 Peter 1:19-21
  13. John 5:22-27; Ephesians 1:20-22; Philippians 2:9-11
  14. John 5:22; Acts 17:30-31; Romans 2:16; 14:10
  15. Romans 2:16; 1 Cor. 14:37; Gal. 1:11-12; Revelation 20:12-15

 

“If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).

 

 

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Forgiveness of Sin

Lesson 4 in the Personal Bible Study Series

Helpful Hints
It is imperative that the initial review questions are answered before this study begins. Use additional open-ended questions to find out what the student’s understanding is of what he/she has done, has been taught, or has believed in the past. Make sure you and the student both write down these answers on your respective outlines. Otherwise, if there is (or has been) strong religious ties and the student has probably undergone some kind of baptism, there is a tendency to take the newly learned information in this study and apply it to past experiences. By determining beforehand what was previously done and believed, this problem can be avoided.

The student needs to become aware of any potential differences between what was done in the past and what has now been learned from the Bible so that he/she can see the need to comply with God’s directives.

Lesson 4 picks up where Lesson 3 left off — the necessity of being a member of Christ’s body. In addition to baptism, it also covers the prerequisites of belief and repentance. On question 6, if the student does not understand what repentance is, use the additional scripture references on the back page to help explain it.

Lesson 4: Forgiveness of Sin (PDF version)

Instructions: Read each passage of Scripture, then answer the questions underneath. For additional Scripture references, refer to the corresponding numbers at the end of the lesson.

REVIEW OF YOUR PAST OBEDIENCE:

  • Have you tried to obey Jesus in the past?
  • What specifically have you done in response to Jesus?
  • Have you had your sins forgiven by God in the past?
  • What specifically did you do to have your sins forgiven?
  • Are you currently saved or have you been saved in the past?
  • At what point in your response to God were you saved?
  • Have you ever been baptized?
  • If so, explain how and why you were baptized.

1. Ephesians 5:23

Must one be in the body to be saved?

2. 1 Corinthians 12:13

How does a person enter into the one body?

WHAT IS BAPTISM?

3. Colossians 2:12

How is baptism pictured here?

How would you describe a burial?

4. Acts 8:35-39

How is the action of baptism depicted here?

Baptism is a burial (& resurrection) in what?

 

WHO IS TO BE BAPTIZED?

5. Acts 8:12

What had these people done prior to baptism?

Would infants be excluded? If so, why?

6. Acts 2:37-38

What must precede baptism?

What does it mean to repent?

 

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF BAPTISM?

7. Acts 2:38

Baptism is for what purpose?

Is baptism necessary for salvation?

 

IF YOU HAVE BEEN BAPTIZED IN ANY OTHER WAY OR FOR ANY OTHER REASON:

9. Acts 19:1-5

Had these disciples been immersed? (cf. John 3:23)

Had they believed and repented? (v. 4)

Is there any reason to think they were insincere?

Since they were initially baptized for the wrong reason, were they baptized again?

Is understanding what you are doing an important part of being baptized correctly?

10. John 14:15

Is it important to obey Christ exactly as He directs?

 

CONCLUSION
A. Must one be a member of Christ’s church (body) to be saved?

B. How does one enter Christ’s church (body)?

C. Do you believe in Jesus and are you willing to repent of your sins?

D. What do you now need to do to have your sins forgiven?

 

Additional Scripture References

  1. Eph. 1:22-23; 4:4-6; Col. 1:13-14, 18; Acts 2:47; cf. Heb. 5:8-9
  2. Eph. 6:17; Heb. 4:12; 1 Pet. 1:22-23; 3:21; Acts 2:41, 47
  3. Rom. 6:3-5; Eph. 2:4-6; 1 Cor. 15:3-4; Acts 8:35-39
  4. Matt. 3:13-16; John 3:23; Acts 10:47; 1 Peter 3:20-21
  5. John 8:24; Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:37-41; 8:35-39
  6. 2 Cor. 7:9-10; Acts 3:19, 26; 26:18-20; cf. Luke 13:3; Acts 17:30
  7. Acts 22:16; Rom. 6:3-4, 17-18; cf. Eph. 1:7; Matt. 26:28; Rev. 1:5
  8. Mark 16:15-16; John 3:5; Rom. 6:4; Gal. 3:26-27; Eph. 1:7
  9. Matt. 7:21-23; Luke 6:46; Rom. 6:3-4, 17-18; (cf. Matt. 13:13-23; Mark 12:30, 33; John 12:40; Eph. 5:17; 6:6).
  10. Matt. 28:18-20; Heb. 5:8-9; Acts 10:33, 48; 1 John 2:3-5

“If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).

 

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Overview of the Gospel Message

Lesson 2 in the Personal Bible Study Series

Helpful Hints

This lesson is simple, basic, non-controversial, and concisely sums up the fundamental truth of the gospel.

You may want to begin the study by asking, “Are you familiar with the word ‘gospel’ and what it actually means?” If there is uncertainty, then share the information in the “Introduction.”

This lesson concludes with an emphasis on obedience, which is picked up again in lesson 3.

Lesson 2: The Gospel Overview (PDF version)

Instructions: Read each passage of Scripture, then answer the questions underneath.

For additional Scripture references, refer to the corresponding numbers at the end of the lesson.

INTRODUCTION

The word “gospel” literally means “good news.” But in order to have good news, there must be bad news. In this lesson we will compare the bad news with the good news of the gospel.

 BAD NEWS

1. Psalm 5:4-5

What is God’s attitude toward sin?

 2. Isaiah 59:1-2

How does sin affect a person’s relationship with God?

 3. Romans 3:10, 23

How many have sinned?

How many lies have you told?

What do you call a person who tells lies?

Have you ever stolen anything?

What do you call a person who steals?

Have you ever looked at a person with lust?

What do you call someone who has looked at a person with lust? (see Matthew 5:28)

How has your sin affected your relationship with God? (see 1Corinthians 6:9-10; Revelation 21:8; 22:15)

GOOD NEWS

4. 1 Timothy 2:3-4

What is the good news about this statement?

5. John 3:16-17

What has God done to save you?

6. Romans 5:6-8

What has Jesus done to save you from your sins?

How does that make you feel?

7. John 14:6

Can anyone other than Jesus reconcile you to God?

BAD NEWS

8. Matthew 7:13-14, 21

Will everyone be saved?

Will most people be saved?

Is it enough to simply call Jesus “Lord”?

9. 2 Thessalonians 1:6-9

What will happen to those who do not obey the gospel?

GOOD NEWS

10. Romans 6:16-18

Is it possible to be set free from sin?

What must one do to be set free from sin?

Is that what you want to do?

11. Hebrews 5:8-9

Jesus is the Saviour of whom?

Do you want Jesus to save you?

12. Matthew 28:18-20

How much of Jesus’ teachings must we obey?

Are you willing to do all that Jesus commands?

CONCLUSION

A. Why is your sin “bad news”?

B. What is the “good news”?

C. What must you do to be freed from your sins and be saved through Jesus?

Additional Scripture References

1. Psalm 11:5; Prov. 6:16-19; Isaiah 6:3; Habakkuk 1:13; Rev. 2:6, 15

2. Psalm 94:20; Jeremiah 5:25; 1 Peter 3:12; 1 John 1:6

3. Gal. 3:22; 5:19-21; Col. 3:5-9; Rom. 1:26-32; 1 Cor. 6:9-11

4. Ezekiel 18:32; 33:11; 2 Peter 3:9; Titus 2:11-12

5. John 17:1-8; 1 Cor. 1:29-31; Titus 3:3-7; 1 John 4:9-10

6. Isa. 53:3-9; Mark 15:1-39; John 15:13; Phil. 2:5-8; 1 John 2:1-2

7. Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5; 1 Cor. 1:30; 3:10-11; 1 John 2:1-2

8. Matthew 7:21-23; 22:1-8; 25:41; Luke 6:46; Rev. 20:15

9. Matt. 25:46; John 5:28-29; Rom. 2:5-11; 1 Pet. 4:17; Rev. 20:12-15

10. Luke 8:15; John 8:31-36; Romans 10:16-17; James 2:17-26

11. Matthew 7:21-27; 12:50; James 1:21-25; 1 John 2:3-5

12. John 14:15, 21, 23-24; 15:10, 14 Acts 3:22-23

 

“If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32).