Ecclesiastes 7:29 -God made man upright, but men have sought out many inventions
Isaiah 59:1-8 -Sin separates men from God
Reconciliation through Christ
Though we have all sinned and separated ourselves from God, we can be reconciled to Him through Christ.
Zechariah 1:1-4 -Return to God and He will return to you
II Corinthians 5:12-21 -Reconciled to God by Christ Jesus
Romans 5:6-11 -Reconciliation by Christ’s death and resurrection
Colossians 1:19-23 -Once enemies, we are now reconciled
Ephesians 2:14-18 -Both Jews and Gentiles can be reconciled together
Luke 15:11-32 -The parable of the prodigal son
Repentance
To be reconciled we must repent and turn back to serving Him. A change from following after sin to following after Christ must b made.
II Corinthians 7:8-12 -The repentance of the Corinthians
II Timothy 2:11-26 -Repentance of those who acknowledge the truth
Hebrews 6:4-6 -If someone falls away, how can we return them to repentance?
Luke 13:1-5 -Repent or you shall also perish
Showing posts with label First Principles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label First Principles. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Friday, December 4, 2009
I Corinthians 15 - 12/6/09pm
Hebrews 5:12-6:3 -First principles, including the resurrection and judgment
I Corinthians 15:1-2
The same gospel was taught by Paul both in word and in writing
If we hold fast to the gospel, we are saved by it
It is possible to believe in vain
I Corinthians 15:3-8
Evidence provided of Christ’s resurrection
Acts 1:1-3 -Infallible proofs of Christ’s resurrection
Other evidence provided that God can raise the dead:
The starving widow’s son, through Elijah -I Kings 17
The Shunammite’s (replenishing oil) Son, through Elisha -II Kings 4
A dead man, through Elisha’s body -II Kings 13
The widow of Nain’s son, by Jesus -Luke 7
The ruler’s daughter, by Jesus -Matthew 9
Lazarus, by Jesus -John 11
Many saints, at crucifixion -Matthew 27
Dorcas, through Peter -Acts 9
Eutychus, through Paul -Acts 20
I Corinthians 15:9-11
Unity of teaching among the apostles
I Corinthians 15:12-19
Christ’s resurrection is of first importance in Christianity
Belief in the resurrection is necessary
I Corinthians 15:20-28
We are currently under Christ’s reign - the kingdom is now
Acts 1:4-8 -Disciples ask if Christ is to restore the kingdom
Acts 2:1-4 -The kingdom comes with power
Christ, by the resurrection, brings the end of death as brought by Adam
Genesis 3:15 -Seed of woman will crush the serpent’s head
I Corinthians 15:29-32
Without the resurrection, there is no point to following Christ
I Corinthians 15:33-34
Evil company corrupts the faith and actions of the good
I Corinthians 15:35-49
We will rise and be changed from physical and earthly to spiritual and heavenly
The kingdom is not a physical earthly kingdom, but a heavenly, spiritual, and eternal kingdom
I Corinthians 15:50-57
All the dead shall rise at the same time
Acts 24:14-15 -Resurrection of the just and the unjust
John 5:28-29 - One resurrection
Physical death will be defeated
Hebrews 9:27 -It is appointed to man once to die, then judgment
Revelation 21:6-8 -The second death
I Corinthians 15:58
Because of all this, we must life for Christ, in faithful obedience
There is purpose to laboring for God, it is not in vain (vv. 1-2)
I Peter 1:1-3 -A living hope through Christ’s resurrection
Romans 6:3-9 -United through baptism to His death, burial, and resurrection
I Corinthians 15:1-2
The same gospel was taught by Paul both in word and in writing
If we hold fast to the gospel, we are saved by it
It is possible to believe in vain
I Corinthians 15:3-8
Evidence provided of Christ’s resurrection
Acts 1:1-3 -Infallible proofs of Christ’s resurrection
Other evidence provided that God can raise the dead:
The starving widow’s son, through Elijah -I Kings 17
The Shunammite’s (replenishing oil) Son, through Elisha -II Kings 4
A dead man, through Elisha’s body -II Kings 13
The widow of Nain’s son, by Jesus -Luke 7
The ruler’s daughter, by Jesus -Matthew 9
Lazarus, by Jesus -John 11
Many saints, at crucifixion -Matthew 27
Dorcas, through Peter -Acts 9
Eutychus, through Paul -Acts 20
I Corinthians 15:9-11
Unity of teaching among the apostles
I Corinthians 15:12-19
Christ’s resurrection is of first importance in Christianity
Belief in the resurrection is necessary
I Corinthians 15:20-28
We are currently under Christ’s reign - the kingdom is now
Acts 1:4-8 -Disciples ask if Christ is to restore the kingdom
Acts 2:1-4 -The kingdom comes with power
Christ, by the resurrection, brings the end of death as brought by Adam
Genesis 3:15 -Seed of woman will crush the serpent’s head
I Corinthians 15:29-32
Without the resurrection, there is no point to following Christ
I Corinthians 15:33-34
Evil company corrupts the faith and actions of the good
I Corinthians 15:35-49
We will rise and be changed from physical and earthly to spiritual and heavenly
The kingdom is not a physical earthly kingdom, but a heavenly, spiritual, and eternal kingdom
I Corinthians 15:50-57
All the dead shall rise at the same time
Acts 24:14-15 -Resurrection of the just and the unjust
John 5:28-29 - One resurrection
Physical death will be defeated
Hebrews 9:27 -It is appointed to man once to die, then judgment
Revelation 21:6-8 -The second death
I Corinthians 15:58
Because of all this, we must life for Christ, in faithful obedience
There is purpose to laboring for God, it is not in vain (vv. 1-2)
I Peter 1:1-3 -A living hope through Christ’s resurrection
Romans 6:3-9 -United through baptism to His death, burial, and resurrection
Faith is the Victory 0 12/6/09am
I John 5:1-5 -This is the victory that has overcome the world
The Example of Noah
In Noah we see an example of one who lived by faith, and so was victorious and overcame the world. Because of his faith and his obedient adherence to that faith, he and his family alone were saved from destruction.
II Peter 2:4-5 -Noah, a preacher of righteousness
I Peter 3:18-20 -Christ preached through Noah
Genesis 6:1-8 -The wicked world to be destroyed, but Noah found favor with God
Genesis 6:9-22 -Noah receives directions to build the ark and obeys
Genesis 7:1-16 -Noah, his family, and the animals get on the ark
Genesis 7:17-24 -All creatures were destroyed save those on the ark
Genesis 8:1-5 -The ark comes to rest on Ararat
Genesis 8:6-19 -The earth is dried, and Noah, his family, and the animals leave the ark
Hebrews 11:7 -Noah, by faith, did these things
The Reward for Overcoming
Revelation 21:1-8 -He who overcomes shall inherit all things
The Example of Noah
In Noah we see an example of one who lived by faith, and so was victorious and overcame the world. Because of his faith and his obedient adherence to that faith, he and his family alone were saved from destruction.
II Peter 2:4-5 -Noah, a preacher of righteousness
I Peter 3:18-20 -Christ preached through Noah
Genesis 6:1-8 -The wicked world to be destroyed, but Noah found favor with God
Genesis 6:9-22 -Noah receives directions to build the ark and obeys
Genesis 7:1-16 -Noah, his family, and the animals get on the ark
Genesis 7:17-24 -All creatures were destroyed save those on the ark
Genesis 8:1-5 -The ark comes to rest on Ararat
Genesis 8:6-19 -The earth is dried, and Noah, his family, and the animals leave the ark
Hebrews 11:7 -Noah, by faith, did these things
The Reward for Overcoming
Revelation 21:1-8 -He who overcomes shall inherit all things
Saturday, February 7, 2009
He Is Risen - 2/8/09am
Matthew 26:47-56 -Jesus is betrayed and arrested
Although Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, remember that the other disciples did not. It’s easy to know the anger and dismay this would cause the apostles
Matthew 26:57-66 -Jesus is brought before the Sanhedrin
If you are Peter, having followed Christ, you see the Lord being obviously falsely accused, mocked, and smitten. You see Him obviously unjustly condemned by the council of those who are supposed to be judging according to the Law.
Matthew 26:67-68 -Jesus is mocked and struck
Matthew 26:69-75 -Jesus is again betrayed by one close to Him
With all of this, it is easy to understand why Peter would deny the Lord. And yet, we see his remorse after doing so. Truly, at this point, it must seem to Peter that everyone had lost faith.
Matthew 27:11-26 -Jesus is brought before Pilate
And now we see Christ before Pilate, the hand of Rome in Judea. Pilate, who had no great regard for Jews, finds the man obviously innocent. Nonetheless, in order to sate the crowd, he hands him over and frees Barabbas. In a sense, taking the man’s place.
Matthew 27:27-31 -Jesus is again mocked and beaten
And now Christ is mocked and beaten again, this time by gentiles. It is as though the entire world, Jews, gentiles, and His disciples, have turned against Him.
Matthew 27:32-44 -Jesus is crucified and mocked
Matthew 27:45-56 -Jesus dies
Jesus, the Son of God, God the Son, gave up the spirit. How dark an hour this must have been for His disciples.
We often complain about how bad things are now, in the year 2009. Yet consider that moment in time. It seemed as though the entire world had rejected Christ, Satan had won, and God had been shown powerless and unable to bring about His will.
Matthew 27:57-61 -Jesus is buried
Matthew 28:1-10 -Jesus is risen
And yet, at this darkest hour of history, God overcomes! Jesus is risen from the dead. And those who follow Him have the victory because of this.
No matter ho bad things may seem to be, whether in politics, the economy, world affairs, or whatever else may trouble us, we have the victory, if we are baptized into the Lord’s death, and rise a new creature. If we do not deny and betray Him, if we follow Him, then salvation awaits us. Have you obeyed the gospel?
Although Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, remember that the other disciples did not. It’s easy to know the anger and dismay this would cause the apostles
Matthew 26:57-66 -Jesus is brought before the Sanhedrin
If you are Peter, having followed Christ, you see the Lord being obviously falsely accused, mocked, and smitten. You see Him obviously unjustly condemned by the council of those who are supposed to be judging according to the Law.
Matthew 26:67-68 -Jesus is mocked and struck
Matthew 26:69-75 -Jesus is again betrayed by one close to Him
With all of this, it is easy to understand why Peter would deny the Lord. And yet, we see his remorse after doing so. Truly, at this point, it must seem to Peter that everyone had lost faith.
Matthew 27:11-26 -Jesus is brought before Pilate
And now we see Christ before Pilate, the hand of Rome in Judea. Pilate, who had no great regard for Jews, finds the man obviously innocent. Nonetheless, in order to sate the crowd, he hands him over and frees Barabbas. In a sense, taking the man’s place.
Matthew 27:27-31 -Jesus is again mocked and beaten
And now Christ is mocked and beaten again, this time by gentiles. It is as though the entire world, Jews, gentiles, and His disciples, have turned against Him.
Matthew 27:32-44 -Jesus is crucified and mocked
Matthew 27:45-56 -Jesus dies
Jesus, the Son of God, God the Son, gave up the spirit. How dark an hour this must have been for His disciples.
We often complain about how bad things are now, in the year 2009. Yet consider that moment in time. It seemed as though the entire world had rejected Christ, Satan had won, and God had been shown powerless and unable to bring about His will.
Matthew 27:57-61 -Jesus is buried
Matthew 28:1-10 -Jesus is risen
And yet, at this darkest hour of history, God overcomes! Jesus is risen from the dead. And those who follow Him have the victory because of this.
No matter ho bad things may seem to be, whether in politics, the economy, world affairs, or whatever else may trouble us, we have the victory, if we are baptized into the Lord’s death, and rise a new creature. If we do not deny and betray Him, if we follow Him, then salvation awaits us. Have you obeyed the gospel?
Saturday, January 17, 2009
O Ye of Little Faith - 1/18/09am
Hebrews 11:1 -Faith is
Luke 12:22-30 -Will he not clothe you?
The disciples’ lack of faith resulted in worry and concern. If our faith is not what it should be, then we too will be overcome with worry and concern for the things that God can provide.
Matthew 8:24-27 -Jesus calms the storm
Once again, we see a lack of faith resulting in concern. Moreover, we see a lack of faith in the ability of God to carry out His plan and to protect His Son.
Matthew 14:22-36 -Peter tries to walk on water
Even when Peter cried out to the Lord, he was rebuked for his little faith. I daresay he showed more faith than most of us do! Nonetheless, he doubted the power of Christ. If our faith is not what it should be, we too will doubt the ability of the Lord to do as He said.
Matthew 16:1-12 -Beware the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees
The lack of faith of the disciples’ resulted in not understanding what Christ said. We must put our trust in the Lord, or we will misunderstand. We will not take heed of what is said, and we will fall.
Matthew 17:14-20 -The disciples fail to cast out a demon
The disciples’ faith was insufficient to do the will of God. If we are lacking in our faith, we too will fail to do what the Lord requires of us.
Luke 7:1-10 -The centurion’s great faith
We see here what having great faith is: look at the centurion’s complete conviction regarding the power and authority of the Lord. And we see the result is that the Lord hears him, and grants him a blessing.
Matthew 15:21-31 -The Canaanite woman’s great faith
Once again, we see that great faith is an absolute conviction: in this case that even the smallest part of Christ’s power would be enough to make her daughter whole.
Luke 17:5 -Increase our faith
Acts 16:1-5 -Churches increased in faith and grew in number
II Corinthians 10:12-16 -As your faith is increased
II Thessalonians 1:1-5 -Your faith grows exceedingly
We must strive to grow in faith. We cannot remain stagnant and of little faith. We must move beyond being of “little faith” and increase to “great faith.”
Luke 12:22-30 -Will he not clothe you?
The disciples’ lack of faith resulted in worry and concern. If our faith is not what it should be, then we too will be overcome with worry and concern for the things that God can provide.
Matthew 8:24-27 -Jesus calms the storm
Once again, we see a lack of faith resulting in concern. Moreover, we see a lack of faith in the ability of God to carry out His plan and to protect His Son.
Matthew 14:22-36 -Peter tries to walk on water
Even when Peter cried out to the Lord, he was rebuked for his little faith. I daresay he showed more faith than most of us do! Nonetheless, he doubted the power of Christ. If our faith is not what it should be, we too will doubt the ability of the Lord to do as He said.
Matthew 16:1-12 -Beware the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees
The lack of faith of the disciples’ resulted in not understanding what Christ said. We must put our trust in the Lord, or we will misunderstand. We will not take heed of what is said, and we will fall.
Matthew 17:14-20 -The disciples fail to cast out a demon
The disciples’ faith was insufficient to do the will of God. If we are lacking in our faith, we too will fail to do what the Lord requires of us.
Luke 7:1-10 -The centurion’s great faith
We see here what having great faith is: look at the centurion’s complete conviction regarding the power and authority of the Lord. And we see the result is that the Lord hears him, and grants him a blessing.
Matthew 15:21-31 -The Canaanite woman’s great faith
Once again, we see that great faith is an absolute conviction: in this case that even the smallest part of Christ’s power would be enough to make her daughter whole.
Luke 17:5 -Increase our faith
Acts 16:1-5 -Churches increased in faith and grew in number
II Corinthians 10:12-16 -As your faith is increased
II Thessalonians 1:1-5 -Your faith grows exceedingly
We must strive to grow in faith. We cannot remain stagnant and of little faith. We must move beyond being of “little faith” and increase to “great faith.”
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Creating & Maintianing Faith - 12/14/08am
While we often discuss what faith is and what the role of faith is in salvation and daily life, we will take some time to look at a different aspect of faith: how scripture creates faith in a person, and how scripture maintains that faith.
Creating Faith
What does the Bible provide us with, that we might come to believe?
John 20:30-31 -Written that we might believe
Romans 10:17 -Faith comes by hearing
Romans 16:25-27 -Prophecies provided to build faith
What Faith is Created?
For that matter, what is our initial belief supposed to be? How much must we know in order to have faith and obey?
I John 5:1-5 -Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God
I Corinthians 15:12-28 -The resurrection
Acts 2:14-41 -Pentecost - “simplicity” of initial faith
Matthew 16:13-16 -The good confession
Acts 8:26-40 -What the Ethiopian believed
-Jesus, the Christ, is the Son of God
-Obedience is necessary (Hebrews 5:9)
Maintaining Faith
How much of the Bible was written to maintain faith in the faithful?
Romans 1:1-7
I Corinthians 1:1-3
II Corinthians 1:1-3
Galatians 1:1-5
Ephesians 1:1-2
Philippians 1:1-2
Colossians 1:1-2
I Thessalonians 1:1
II Thessalonians 1:1-2
I Timothy 1:1-2
II Timothy 1:1-2
Titus 1:1-4
Philemon 1-3
Hebrews 3:1
James 1:1
I Peter 1:1-2
II Peter 1:1-2
II John 1:1-3
III John 1
Jude 1-2
Revelation 1:4-6
Acts 2:42-47 -The disciples after Pentecost
Creating Faith
What does the Bible provide us with, that we might come to believe?
John 20:30-31 -Written that we might believe
Romans 10:17 -Faith comes by hearing
Romans 16:25-27 -Prophecies provided to build faith
What Faith is Created?
For that matter, what is our initial belief supposed to be? How much must we know in order to have faith and obey?
I John 5:1-5 -Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God
I Corinthians 15:12-28 -The resurrection
Acts 2:14-41 -Pentecost - “simplicity” of initial faith
Matthew 16:13-16 -The good confession
Acts 8:26-40 -What the Ethiopian believed
-Jesus, the Christ, is the Son of God
-Obedience is necessary (Hebrews 5:9)
Maintaining Faith
How much of the Bible was written to maintain faith in the faithful?
Romans 1:1-7
I Corinthians 1:1-3
II Corinthians 1:1-3
Galatians 1:1-5
Ephesians 1:1-2
Philippians 1:1-2
Colossians 1:1-2
I Thessalonians 1:1
II Thessalonians 1:1-2
I Timothy 1:1-2
II Timothy 1:1-2
Titus 1:1-4
Philemon 1-3
Hebrews 3:1
James 1:1
I Peter 1:1-2
II Peter 1:1-2
II John 1:1-3
III John 1
Jude 1-2
Revelation 1:4-6
Acts 2:42-47 -The disciples after Pentecost
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Heaven and Hell - 11/16/08am
Hebrews 5:12-6:3 -Eternal judgment is a first principle
I Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 -The day of the Lord
II Peter 3:1-13 -The day of the Lord
Judgment
One Judgment
II Timothy 4:1 -Christ to judge the living and dead
Hebrews 9:27 -Once to die, then the judgment
Judged by our actions
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 -God will judge all actions
Romans 14:10-12 -Give an account at judgment
II Corinthians 5:9-11 -All stand before the judgment seat
Revelation 20:11-13 -Judged by our works
Righteous Judgment
Romans 1:28-32 -Righteous judgment of God
Luke 16:19-31 -The rich man and Lazarus
Heaven
John 14:1-4 -Mansion has many rooms
Revelation 21:1-22:5 -Figurative description of Heaven’s glory
Hell
Mark 9:42-48 -Where the worm doesn’t die, the fire isn’t quenched
II Peter 2:4 -”Chains of darkness”
Jude 6-7 -”Chains under darkness”
Revelation 20:14-15 -Lake of fire
Amos 4:12 -Prepare to meet your God
I Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 -The day of the Lord
II Peter 3:1-13 -The day of the Lord
Judgment
One Judgment
II Timothy 4:1 -Christ to judge the living and dead
Hebrews 9:27 -Once to die, then the judgment
Judged by our actions
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 -God will judge all actions
Romans 14:10-12 -Give an account at judgment
II Corinthians 5:9-11 -All stand before the judgment seat
Revelation 20:11-13 -Judged by our works
Righteous Judgment
Romans 1:28-32 -Righteous judgment of God
Luke 16:19-31 -The rich man and Lazarus
Heaven
John 14:1-4 -Mansion has many rooms
Revelation 21:1-22:5 -Figurative description of Heaven’s glory
Hell
Mark 9:42-48 -Where the worm doesn’t die, the fire isn’t quenched
II Peter 2:4 -”Chains of darkness”
Jude 6-7 -”Chains under darkness”
Revelation 20:14-15 -Lake of fire
Amos 4:12 -Prepare to meet your God
Monday, October 6, 2008
First Principles of the World - 10/5/08pm
Hebrews 5:12-6:3
We’ve talked before about the first principles of Christ. We’ve studied the things listed here, and learned of what the Bible had to say on them. Today, let us consider the first principles of the world. Let us look at what they are and where they lead.
Colossians 2:8-10 -Cheated through empty words and basic principles
-Not according to Christ
Human Tradition
We must not allow human traditions, great or small, to be our guide in this life.
Matthew 15:1-9 -Christ condemns replacing God’s word with tradition
Hollow Philosophy
How many “good sounding” philosophies are there in this world? How many intelligent men have come up with ideas which people hold to and follow because they sound good?
I Corinthians 1:20-25 -Where is the philosopher? God’s wisdom is greater
Colossians 2:11-17 -Directed at Christians who have put on Christ
Colossians 2:18-19 -Do not let yourself be cheated by:
Worship of Angels
There is only one we are to worship: God.
Revelation 22:8-9 -John told by the angel who gave the vision to only worship God
Exodus 20:3-6 -No other gods
Intruding into things he has not seen
In zeal, many people make declarations about things they do not understand, whether small or great. Let us each remember there are bounds on what we know.
Romans 10:2 -Zeal not in accordance with knowledge
Proverbs 19:2 -Zeal without knowledge is not good
Job 26:5-14 -Who can understand the fringes of God’s power?
Not holding fast to the head
Christ is the head. If we do not hold to Him, then we are lost and not part of the body.
Hebrews 3:15 -We must hold fast to be of His house
Colossians 2:20-23 -As Christians, should be dead to the basic principles of the world
”Do not touch/taste/handle”
Some things are forbidden by God. Yet many would add things that they think should be avoided.
I Timothy 4:3-5 -Forbid to marry and to eat certain foods
Appearance of Wisdom
There are many things that seem wise, yet are contrary to what God says. Which shall we hold to? The simple, foolish things of Christ? Or the “wisdom” of men?
I Corinthians 1:26-31 -God chose the “foolish things”
Self-imposed Religion
Who should choose what is worship? The one being worshipped? Or the worshiper? The answer is clear: the one who is worshipped. Let us not decide on our own what the Lord wants!
John 4:24 -Worship in spirit and in truth
Isaiah 1:10-17 -Improper worship
False Humility
Have you ever seen people make a pretence of their humility? “Why, everyone should be as humble as me! I’m the most humble person I know!”
Matthew 23:23-28 -Hypocrisy of the Pharisees
Neglect of the Body
There are those, throughout history, who have decided that the best way to worship God was through self abuse and making a show of it.
Matthew 6:16-18 -Improper fasting
Indulgence of the Flesh
The elementary teachings of the world are of no use in helping us not indulge in the things of the flesh. Let us instead hold to those things which will help us!
Galatians 5:19-21 -Works of the flesh
I Peter 4:2-4 -In our past we…
Galatians 4:3-9 -”elements of the world” lead to bondage
We’ve talked before about the first principles of Christ. We’ve studied the things listed here, and learned of what the Bible had to say on them. Today, let us consider the first principles of the world. Let us look at what they are and where they lead.
Colossians 2:8-10 -Cheated through empty words and basic principles
-Not according to Christ
Human Tradition
We must not allow human traditions, great or small, to be our guide in this life.
Matthew 15:1-9 -Christ condemns replacing God’s word with tradition
Hollow Philosophy
How many “good sounding” philosophies are there in this world? How many intelligent men have come up with ideas which people hold to and follow because they sound good?
I Corinthians 1:20-25 -Where is the philosopher? God’s wisdom is greater
Colossians 2:11-17 -Directed at Christians who have put on Christ
Colossians 2:18-19 -Do not let yourself be cheated by:
Worship of Angels
There is only one we are to worship: God.
Revelation 22:8-9 -John told by the angel who gave the vision to only worship God
Exodus 20:3-6 -No other gods
Intruding into things he has not seen
In zeal, many people make declarations about things they do not understand, whether small or great. Let us each remember there are bounds on what we know.
Romans 10:2 -Zeal not in accordance with knowledge
Proverbs 19:2 -Zeal without knowledge is not good
Job 26:5-14 -Who can understand the fringes of God’s power?
Not holding fast to the head
Christ is the head. If we do not hold to Him, then we are lost and not part of the body.
Hebrews 3:15 -We must hold fast to be of His house
Colossians 2:20-23 -As Christians, should be dead to the basic principles of the world
”Do not touch/taste/handle”
Some things are forbidden by God. Yet many would add things that they think should be avoided.
I Timothy 4:3-5 -Forbid to marry and to eat certain foods
Appearance of Wisdom
There are many things that seem wise, yet are contrary to what God says. Which shall we hold to? The simple, foolish things of Christ? Or the “wisdom” of men?
I Corinthians 1:26-31 -God chose the “foolish things”
Self-imposed Religion
Who should choose what is worship? The one being worshipped? Or the worshiper? The answer is clear: the one who is worshipped. Let us not decide on our own what the Lord wants!
John 4:24 -Worship in spirit and in truth
Isaiah 1:10-17 -Improper worship
False Humility
Have you ever seen people make a pretence of their humility? “Why, everyone should be as humble as me! I’m the most humble person I know!”
Matthew 23:23-28 -Hypocrisy of the Pharisees
Neglect of the Body
There are those, throughout history, who have decided that the best way to worship God was through self abuse and making a show of it.
Matthew 6:16-18 -Improper fasting
Indulgence of the Flesh
The elementary teachings of the world are of no use in helping us not indulge in the things of the flesh. Let us instead hold to those things which will help us!
Galatians 5:19-21 -Works of the flesh
I Peter 4:2-4 -In our past we…
Galatians 4:3-9 -”elements of the world” lead to bondage
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Spiritual Gifts - 8/10/08pm
Much confusion exists over the matter of spiritual gifts. Let us consider what the Bible says about such things, that we may discern the truth!
Acts 8:9-25 Simon the Sorcerer
Vs 8-11 People were deceived by his “miraculous” abilities.
Vs 12-13 They (including Simon) believed the gospel, and were astonished by the miracles they saw (evidently better than Simon’s)
Vs 14-17 Apostles lay on hands, giving the Holy Spirit
Vs 18-19 Simon goes to an apostle for laying on of hands, not one of the others
Vs 20-25 Simon tried to gain the spirit by physical means, and was rebuked
I Corinthians 12:1-11 Spiritual gifts: different sorts for the common good
Vs 8: Word of Wisdom
Knowledge
Vs 9: Faith
Healing
Acts 3:1-10 Peter wholly heals a well known lame beggar
Vs 10: Miracles
Prophecy
Deuteronomy 13:1-5 Know a prophet by whether he’s right
Discerning of Spirits
Speaking in Tongues
Acts 2:1-13 Apostles speak in tongues they hadn’t studied
Interpreting Tongues
I Corinthians 12:27-13:13 Spiritual gifts: temporary nature of
Vs 8: Prophecies will cease
Tongues will cease
Knowledge will pass away
Vs 10: That which is perfect comes, and then they will end
Hebrews 2:2-4 Purpose of spiritual gifts
Vs 11: These are the “childish” things
Vs 12: Seen darkly in a mirror - a poor reflection
Vs 13: Faith, hope, and love remain AFTER the perfect has come. If “the perfect” is Christ, then why would faith and hope remain?
I Corinthians 14:1-25 Spiritual gifts: prophecy and tongues
Vs 1-5 Prophecy greater than tongues
Tongues edify self, not others
Vs 6-12 If speaking in different language, what good is it?
Vs 13-17 No edification or understanding with tongues
Vs 18-25 Tongues are for the unbeliever, prophecy for the believer
Tongues: speak to new people to convert them
Prophecy: fill in knowledge for believers
I Corinthians 14:26-40 Spiritual gifts: the orderly use of
Vs 26-28 Speaking in tongues to be done in limited amount, one at a time in the assembly, or remain silent if without an interpreter
Vs 29-33 When prophets speak, others should weight their words, and all should be done in turn for the sake of order and edification
Vs 34-40 They should want spiritual gifts, but everything should be done in an orderly fashion
Acts 8:9-25 Simon the Sorcerer
Vs 8-11 People were deceived by his “miraculous” abilities.
Vs 12-13 They (including Simon) believed the gospel, and were astonished by the miracles they saw (evidently better than Simon’s)
Vs 14-17 Apostles lay on hands, giving the Holy Spirit
Vs 18-19 Simon goes to an apostle for laying on of hands, not one of the others
Vs 20-25 Simon tried to gain the spirit by physical means, and was rebuked
I Corinthians 12:1-11 Spiritual gifts: different sorts for the common good
Vs 8: Word of Wisdom
Knowledge
Vs 9: Faith
Healing
Acts 3:1-10 Peter wholly heals a well known lame beggar
Vs 10: Miracles
Prophecy
Deuteronomy 13:1-5 Know a prophet by whether he’s right
Discerning of Spirits
Speaking in Tongues
Acts 2:1-13 Apostles speak in tongues they hadn’t studied
Interpreting Tongues
I Corinthians 12:27-13:13 Spiritual gifts: temporary nature of
Vs 8: Prophecies will cease
Tongues will cease
Knowledge will pass away
Vs 10: That which is perfect comes, and then they will end
Hebrews 2:2-4 Purpose of spiritual gifts
Vs 11: These are the “childish” things
Vs 12: Seen darkly in a mirror - a poor reflection
Vs 13: Faith, hope, and love remain AFTER the perfect has come. If “the perfect” is Christ, then why would faith and hope remain?
I Corinthians 14:1-25 Spiritual gifts: prophecy and tongues
Vs 1-5 Prophecy greater than tongues
Tongues edify self, not others
Vs 6-12 If speaking in different language, what good is it?
Vs 13-17 No edification or understanding with tongues
Vs 18-25 Tongues are for the unbeliever, prophecy for the believer
Tongues: speak to new people to convert them
Prophecy: fill in knowledge for believers
I Corinthians 14:26-40 Spiritual gifts: the orderly use of
Vs 26-28 Speaking in tongues to be done in limited amount, one at a time in the assembly, or remain silent if without an interpreter
Vs 29-33 When prophets speak, others should weight their words, and all should be done in turn for the sake of order and edification
Vs 34-40 They should want spiritual gifts, but everything should be done in an orderly fashion
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Repentance - 8/3/08am
Joel 2:12-14 Rend you heart, not your garments
What is repentance?
II Corinthians 7:8-12 Godly sorrow leads to repentance - action
II Corinthians 12:19-21 Paul afraid the Corinthians haven’t repented
Being “sorry” isn’t the same as repentance:
Matthew 27:3-5 Judas is sorrowful
What does repentance accomplish?
I Kings 8:46-51 Solomon prays that God will forgive the penitent
Jonah 3:1-10 Nineveh repents and is spared by God
Acts 3:17-19 Repent so your sins may be washed away
Romans 2:5-11 God’s consequences for (non)repentance
Who needs to repent?
Romans 3:23 All have sinned and fallen short
II Peter 3:9 All should come to repentance
Acts 17:30 God commands all to repent
II Samuel 12:1-23 Even David, a man after God’s own heart, needed to repent.
-Repentance does not mean there will be no consequences
How do we repent?
Judges 2:6-19 When people turned back to God, away from sin, He helped them
Acts 26:19-20 Perform deeds appropriate to repentance
Acts 8:18-24 Simon repents through prayer and action
When should we repent?
Romans 13:11-14 The time is at hand
I Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 The day of the Lord comes like a thief in the night
James 4:13-17 Life is short, so do good
What is repentance?
II Corinthians 7:8-12 Godly sorrow leads to repentance - action
II Corinthians 12:19-21 Paul afraid the Corinthians haven’t repented
Being “sorry” isn’t the same as repentance:
Matthew 27:3-5 Judas is sorrowful
What does repentance accomplish?
I Kings 8:46-51 Solomon prays that God will forgive the penitent
Jonah 3:1-10 Nineveh repents and is spared by God
Acts 3:17-19 Repent so your sins may be washed away
Romans 2:5-11 God’s consequences for (non)repentance
Who needs to repent?
Romans 3:23 All have sinned and fallen short
II Peter 3:9 All should come to repentance
Acts 17:30 God commands all to repent
II Samuel 12:1-23 Even David, a man after God’s own heart, needed to repent.
-Repentance does not mean there will be no consequences
How do we repent?
Judges 2:6-19 When people turned back to God, away from sin, He helped them
Acts 26:19-20 Perform deeds appropriate to repentance
Acts 8:18-24 Simon repents through prayer and action
When should we repent?
Romans 13:11-14 The time is at hand
I Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 The day of the Lord comes like a thief in the night
James 4:13-17 Life is short, so do good
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Baptism - 7/20/08am
Hebrews 6:1-2 -Baptism is an elementary principle
While we must move on beyond elementary principles, it is good to occasionally remind ourselves of them, so that we can more easily recall the details so that we may better teach others. Baptism, being a point that is hotly contested in the world, is worthy of examination.
What is baptism?
What is baptism? It’s a word that is misunderstood by many. It is the transliterated Greek word baptizo. It means “to immerse” or “to dip.” It can also mean “to wash” based on it’s primary meaning: people would wash things by putting them in water.
Acts 8:38-39 -Down into the water
Matthew 3:16 -Came up out of the water
Mark 14:20 -“Dips” - embaptomeno (same root word)
It is to fulfill all righteousness
The Bible teaches us that baptism is necessary for righteousness’ sake. Christ was baptized for that very reason. Christ set us an example, so that we might understand the importance of it.
Matthew 3:15 -Christ baptized to fulfill all righteousness
I Peter 2:21 -Follow in Christ’s example
It grants forgiveness of sins
One of the primary purposes of baptism is so that a person might be forgiven of sins. Some people teach that baptism is for other purposes. Let us examine what the scriptures teach!
Acts 2:38 -Baptized for the forgiveness of sins
Matthew 26:28 -Christ’s blood is shed for the forgiveness of sins
Acts 10:43 -Belief is for the forgiveness of sins
Acts 22:16 -Washing away your sins
It is a commandment
It is something that is ordered. If we want to follow Christ, we must be obedient to His will and follow His commandments. Anything else, and we will be lacking.
Acts 22:16 -Not only washes away sins, but DO THIS
Acts 10:47-48 -Peter ordered the first gentile believers to be baptized
II John 6 -Love is walking in His commandments
I Corinthians 16:22 -Anyone who does not love the Lord…
It is a burial
While the burial concept also implies immersion, there is another point being made here. It is in baptism that we put away our old self: our selfish lusts and sins, and rise anew as a Christian. It is tied to the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord.
Romans 6:1-7 -Buried/united in His death, united in His resurrection
Colossians 2:12 -Having been buried with Him in baptism
It is necessary to put on Christ
We all want to put on Christ, yes? We all want Christ to live in us? Then we must be baptized.
Galatians 3:26-27 -Those who were baptized have put on Christ
Galatians 2:20 -Crucified with Christ, now Christ lives in me
It is how to be added to the church
If we want to be added to the Lord’s church, we must be baptized. The Lord’s body is made up of those who are saved: those who are baptized. You may attend a worship service with other people, but if you are not baptized, you are not a part of His church.
Acts 2:41 -Those being baptized were added by the Lord
Acts 2:47 -Those being saved were added by the Lord
It is necessary for salvation
Just as we saw that it washes away sins, adds you to the church, and fulfills all righteousness, the Bible plainly states that it is necessary for salvation.
Mark 16:16 -He that believes and is baptized will be saved
I Peter 3:21 -It now saves you
While we must move on beyond elementary principles, it is good to occasionally remind ourselves of them, so that we can more easily recall the details so that we may better teach others. Baptism, being a point that is hotly contested in the world, is worthy of examination.
What is baptism?
What is baptism? It’s a word that is misunderstood by many. It is the transliterated Greek word baptizo. It means “to immerse” or “to dip.” It can also mean “to wash” based on it’s primary meaning: people would wash things by putting them in water.
Acts 8:38-39 -Down into the water
Matthew 3:16 -Came up out of the water
Mark 14:20 -“Dips” - embaptomeno (same root word)
It is to fulfill all righteousness
The Bible teaches us that baptism is necessary for righteousness’ sake. Christ was baptized for that very reason. Christ set us an example, so that we might understand the importance of it.
Matthew 3:15 -Christ baptized to fulfill all righteousness
I Peter 2:21 -Follow in Christ’s example
It grants forgiveness of sins
One of the primary purposes of baptism is so that a person might be forgiven of sins. Some people teach that baptism is for other purposes. Let us examine what the scriptures teach!
Acts 2:38 -Baptized for the forgiveness of sins
Matthew 26:28 -Christ’s blood is shed for the forgiveness of sins
Acts 10:43 -Belief is for the forgiveness of sins
Acts 22:16 -Washing away your sins
It is a commandment
It is something that is ordered. If we want to follow Christ, we must be obedient to His will and follow His commandments. Anything else, and we will be lacking.
Acts 22:16 -Not only washes away sins, but DO THIS
Acts 10:47-48 -Peter ordered the first gentile believers to be baptized
II John 6 -Love is walking in His commandments
I Corinthians 16:22 -Anyone who does not love the Lord…
It is a burial
While the burial concept also implies immersion, there is another point being made here. It is in baptism that we put away our old self: our selfish lusts and sins, and rise anew as a Christian. It is tied to the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord.
Romans 6:1-7 -Buried/united in His death, united in His resurrection
Colossians 2:12 -Having been buried with Him in baptism
It is necessary to put on Christ
We all want to put on Christ, yes? We all want Christ to live in us? Then we must be baptized.
Galatians 3:26-27 -Those who were baptized have put on Christ
Galatians 2:20 -Crucified with Christ, now Christ lives in me
It is how to be added to the church
If we want to be added to the Lord’s church, we must be baptized. The Lord’s body is made up of those who are saved: those who are baptized. You may attend a worship service with other people, but if you are not baptized, you are not a part of His church.
Acts 2:41 -Those being baptized were added by the Lord
Acts 2:47 -Those being saved were added by the Lord
It is necessary for salvation
Just as we saw that it washes away sins, adds you to the church, and fulfills all righteousness, the Bible plainly states that it is necessary for salvation.
Mark 16:16 -He that believes and is baptized will be saved
I Peter 3:21 -It now saves you
Sunday, May 4, 2008
To Fall into the Hands of the Living God - 5/4/08am
Exodus 20:4-5 -The Lord is a jealous God
Hebrews 10:31 -A terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God
God does not change
Many seek to make a differentiation between the “God of the Old Testament” and the “God of the New Testament.” I say that this is not so. The same God that lives today is the same God that lived in the time of Abraham. And what He detested then, He detests now. As He kept promises then, He keeps promises now.
Malachi 3:6 -God does not change
Hebrews 13:8 -Jesus is always the same
James 1:17 -There is no variation with God
Examples of God’s punishment
Let us look at passages in the Bible, and see how God deals with those who oppose Him and fail to serve Him as they should!
Genesis 6:1-7 -God repents of having made man
Genesis 18:20-33 -How many righteous men in Sodom?
Genesis 19:15-25 -God destroys Sodom and Gomorrah
Genesis 38:7 -God kills Er for being wicked
Leviticus 10:1-2 -Nadab and Abihu offer strange fire
Numbers 16:16-35 -God destroys Korah’s rebellion
Numbers 16:41-50 -God destroys those who murmur about Korah’s death
II Samuel 6:6-7 -God smites Uzzah
II Samuel 24:10-17 -God kills 70,000 for David’s sin
II Kings 1:9-12 -God kills those who seek to capture Elijah
II Kings 2:23-25 -God kills the mocking youths
And just so that no one thinks it is only in the Old Testament:
Acts 5:1-11 -Ananias and Sapphira
Promises of God’s punishment
God does not change. He is the same God as when He performed all these punishments. And what we have today is the same promise: punishment for sin.
Luke 12:4-5 -Fear He who can cast you into hell
Mark 9:42-48 -Hell, where the worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched
Revelation 20:11-15 -The lake of fire, which is the second death
II Thessalonians 1:3-10 -Punishment for those who do not obey or know the gospel
Are you in danger of God’s wrath and punishment? Will you not now repent and put away your sin, that you can avoid it? Will you not come to know Christ, and to obey the gospel in baptism?
Hebrews 10:31 -A terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God
God does not change
Many seek to make a differentiation between the “God of the Old Testament” and the “God of the New Testament.” I say that this is not so. The same God that lives today is the same God that lived in the time of Abraham. And what He detested then, He detests now. As He kept promises then, He keeps promises now.
Malachi 3:6 -God does not change
Hebrews 13:8 -Jesus is always the same
James 1:17 -There is no variation with God
Examples of God’s punishment
Let us look at passages in the Bible, and see how God deals with those who oppose Him and fail to serve Him as they should!
Genesis 6:1-7 -God repents of having made man
Genesis 18:20-33 -How many righteous men in Sodom?
Genesis 19:15-25 -God destroys Sodom and Gomorrah
Genesis 38:7 -God kills Er for being wicked
Leviticus 10:1-2 -Nadab and Abihu offer strange fire
Numbers 16:16-35 -God destroys Korah’s rebellion
Numbers 16:41-50 -God destroys those who murmur about Korah’s death
II Samuel 6:6-7 -God smites Uzzah
II Samuel 24:10-17 -God kills 70,000 for David’s sin
II Kings 1:9-12 -God kills those who seek to capture Elijah
II Kings 2:23-25 -God kills the mocking youths
And just so that no one thinks it is only in the Old Testament:
Acts 5:1-11 -Ananias and Sapphira
Promises of God’s punishment
God does not change. He is the same God as when He performed all these punishments. And what we have today is the same promise: punishment for sin.
Luke 12:4-5 -Fear He who can cast you into hell
Mark 9:42-48 -Hell, where the worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched
Revelation 20:11-15 -The lake of fire, which is the second death
II Thessalonians 1:3-10 -Punishment for those who do not obey or know the gospel
Are you in danger of God’s wrath and punishment? Will you not now repent and put away your sin, that you can avoid it? Will you not come to know Christ, and to obey the gospel in baptism?
Sunday, March 30, 2008
The Resurrection - 3/30/08pm
/There are, to the best of my knowledge, ten accounts of people being brought back to life in the Bible. It is one of the most obvious displays of God’s power, and bears looking at.
The Widow’s Son - I Kings 17:17-24
-God working through a human agent (note the physical contact and prayer)
-God’s power is what raised the son
-Glory is given to God for the miracle
The Shunammite’s Son - II Kings 4:8-37
-God granted the woman a son for her service to God’s prophet
-Once again, God works through a human agent (physical contact and prayer)
-Notice, the woman recognizes the power of God throughout the story
A Dead Man - II Kings 13:20-21
-This is an obvious display of God’s power, and of His favor towards Elisha
-Once again, there is physical contact
-The glory could only belong to God, as Elisha could not have done this, being dead
The Widow of Nain’s Son - Luke 7:11-17
-Christ (God) simply speaks, and the boy is raised
-The people recognize it is the power of God, and praise Him
-It is also a display of God’s mercy and love for man (v 13)
Lazarus - John 11:1-44
-Jesus hears that Lazarus is sick, and knows he will die. He allows this to happen for the greater glory of God (God’s will comes first, as He possesses infinite wisdom and knowledge).
-We have another example of Christ’s love (vv 35-36)
-Once again, Jesus simply speaks, and the dead rise up. Being God, He does what others have had to pray and request.
The Ruler’s Daughter - Matthew 9:18-26
-Once again, Jesus raises a dead person
-He does not even speak, just causes it to happen
-News spreads of the event
Saints -Matthew 27:50-53
-No human was involved: it was directly the action of God
-A great display of God’s power that must have made a difference, as they appeared to many
Dorcas - Acts 9:36-43
-Peter prays to the Lord, before telling her to get up (implication is that he invokes Christ’s name in this - v 34)
-The result is that people believe and the word is spread
-Even Peter, an apostle and recipient of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, had to ask the Lord for this miracle
Eutychus - Acts 20:7-12
-Once again, we see physical contact
-Although no prayer is mentioned, it seems unlikely that there was none, as it is there in the other accounts of resurrections
-The people were comforted in this - it is a sign of God’s power, and a sign of God’s mercy
Christ - Mark 15:33-41, 16:1-8
-Fulfilled prophecies made (Psalm 16:10, Psalm 49:15)
-Showed the power of God
-Was resurrected to display the power of God over death
And of course, it is Christ’s resurrection that has the most meaning to us today:
I Peter 1:3-6 -Living hope through the resurrection
I Corinthians 15:12-32 -The Resurrection: without it, teaching and faith is futile
I Peter 3:21-22 -Saved through the resurrection, baptism
-Parallel of baptism:
He died - the “old man” dies
Burial - submerged
Resurrected - arise anew
Romans 6:5 -United with Him in death and in resurrection
Philippians 3:10-11 -Know Christ & His resurrection so we can attain ours
Acts 24:14-15 -Resurrection of the righteous and the wicked
Revelation 21:6-8 -The second death. If we serve God, we can avoid this and be with Him for eternity, possessing life everlasting.
The Widow’s Son - I Kings 17:17-24
-God working through a human agent (note the physical contact and prayer)
-God’s power is what raised the son
-Glory is given to God for the miracle
The Shunammite’s Son - II Kings 4:8-37
-God granted the woman a son for her service to God’s prophet
-Once again, God works through a human agent (physical contact and prayer)
-Notice, the woman recognizes the power of God throughout the story
A Dead Man - II Kings 13:20-21
-This is an obvious display of God’s power, and of His favor towards Elisha
-Once again, there is physical contact
-The glory could only belong to God, as Elisha could not have done this, being dead
The Widow of Nain’s Son - Luke 7:11-17
-Christ (God) simply speaks, and the boy is raised
-The people recognize it is the power of God, and praise Him
-It is also a display of God’s mercy and love for man (v 13)
Lazarus - John 11:1-44
-Jesus hears that Lazarus is sick, and knows he will die. He allows this to happen for the greater glory of God (God’s will comes first, as He possesses infinite wisdom and knowledge).
-We have another example of Christ’s love (vv 35-36)
-Once again, Jesus simply speaks, and the dead rise up. Being God, He does what others have had to pray and request.
The Ruler’s Daughter - Matthew 9:18-26
-Once again, Jesus raises a dead person
-He does not even speak, just causes it to happen
-News spreads of the event
Saints -Matthew 27:50-53
-No human was involved: it was directly the action of God
-A great display of God’s power that must have made a difference, as they appeared to many
Dorcas - Acts 9:36-43
-Peter prays to the Lord, before telling her to get up (implication is that he invokes Christ’s name in this - v 34)
-The result is that people believe and the word is spread
-Even Peter, an apostle and recipient of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, had to ask the Lord for this miracle
Eutychus - Acts 20:7-12
-Once again, we see physical contact
-Although no prayer is mentioned, it seems unlikely that there was none, as it is there in the other accounts of resurrections
-The people were comforted in this - it is a sign of God’s power, and a sign of God’s mercy
Christ - Mark 15:33-41, 16:1-8
-Fulfilled prophecies made (Psalm 16:10, Psalm 49:15)
-Showed the power of God
-Was resurrected to display the power of God over death
And of course, it is Christ’s resurrection that has the most meaning to us today:
I Peter 1:3-6 -Living hope through the resurrection
I Corinthians 15:12-32 -The Resurrection: without it, teaching and faith is futile
I Peter 3:21-22 -Saved through the resurrection, baptism
-Parallel of baptism:
He died - the “old man” dies
Burial - submerged
Resurrected - arise anew
Romans 6:5 -United with Him in death and in resurrection
Philippians 3:10-11 -Know Christ & His resurrection so we can attain ours
Acts 24:14-15 -Resurrection of the righteous and the wicked
Revelation 21:6-8 -The second death. If we serve God, we can avoid this and be with Him for eternity, possessing life everlasting.
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