Introduction
I give thanks, praise, and glory to the Lord for using me to publish this Bible study material. I have simply organized the vast Word of God in a way that is easier to understand, according to the wisdom He has given me. Therefore, I declare that this material belongs to our Lord, and it is a gift He freely offers to anyone who desires to be reborn and grow as a faithful believer.
I have taught my congregation using various Bible study materials. However, one question has always lingered in my mind: do we need to study this much? What has truly changed? The gospel is neither complicated nor difficult. Thus, using the gift God has given me, I organized this study material. It helps believers understand the gospel accurately, and if applied to one’s life, I am confident they will be commended by the Lord as an A+ believer. The key is that because this material is entirely based on the Bible, it will not become one’s own just by studying it once. Therefore, I encourage you to read it repeatedly and share the content with others.
The structure of this material is designed entirely in question format, with answers that can only be found in Scripture. Moreover, spaces are included for personal reflection, allowing time to think through each answer. I hope that all who study this material will grow into complete Christians and receive praise from our Lord Jesus Christ.
A. God’s Perfect Creation
1. God Who Commands Perfection
How should we be before God? (Deuteronomy 18:13)
“You shall be blameless before the LORD your God.” (Looking at the context, it instructs us not to imitate the detestable practices of those who do not know God, nor to accept the words of fortune-tellers, diviners, or those who consult spirits.)
Deuteronomy 18:13 You shall be blameless before the Lord your God.
What does God require of us, just as He is holy?(1 Peter 1:15-16)
He said, “Be holy, for I am holy.
1 Peter 1:15-16 “But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.'”
What did Jesus command us, just as God the Father is perfect? (Matthew 5:48)
He said, “Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (This is connected to His command to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.)
Matthew 5:48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
What does it mean when Jesus commands us to be perfect, and what is the purpose of this command? (John 17:19-23, Ephesians 4:11-15, and Hebrews 6:1-2)
Just as the Father is in Jesus, making them one, being perfect means that with Jesus in us, we also become perfectly one. To achieve this, we must all reach unity of the faith and knowledge of the Son of God. And as the body of Christ, we become mature, growing up in every way into Christ, which is the meaning of being perfect. Since God is love, we are filled with love. The purpose is to let the world know that the Father sent Jesus and loves us just as He loves Jesus and sent us.
John 17:19-23 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.
Ephesians 4:11-15 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.
Hebrews 6:1-2 Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.
What is the goal of preaching the gospel, admonishing, and teaching each person? (Colossians 1:28-29)
We proclaim Jesus Christ, admonishing everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, in order to present everyone mature in Christ.
Colossians 1:28-29 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.
Who are the ministers that God appointed to perfect the saints? (Ephesians 4:11)
God appointed some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, and some as shepherds and teachers in order to equip the saints for the work of ministry and to build up the body of Christ.
Ephesians 4:11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers.
What should we be trained with in order to reach Christian perfection? (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
We must be trained with Scripture, which is written to make the man of God perfect.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 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.
What is the environment in which God trains us to become perfect? (2 Corinthians 12:9, Hebrews 2:10, 5:8-9, James 1:2-4, 1 Peter 5:10)
God trains His children to become perfect through suffering and trials.
2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Hebrews 2:10 For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.
Hebrews 5:8-9 Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him.
James 1:2-4 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
1 Peter 5:10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.
What is our faith made perfect by? (James 2:22)
Faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect.
James 2:22 You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works.
τέλειος (teleios): in the Bible signifies perfection, maturity, and a state of having reached one’s purpose, often relating to spiritual and moral maturity. This word goes beyond being merely without defect, referring to a growth toward a spiritually perfect state in faith.
2. God Who Created Me and Gave Me a Mission
How did everything in the world come into existence? (Genesis 1:1, 1 Corinthians 8:6)
All things came from God the Father, and God created everything in the world by His word.
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
1 Corinthians 8:6 Yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.
What does it mean that the world was created by the Word? (John 1:1-3, Colossians 1:16, Hebrews 1:1-2)
The Word is Jesus, the Son of God, who was with God from the beginning. Through Him, God made all the worlds. All things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities, all things were created through Him and for Him, and nothing was made without Him.
John 1:1-3 1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.
Colossians 1:16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.
Hebrews 1:1-2 1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.
How did God create all living creatures, making evolution an impossible theory? (Genesis 1:11, 21, 24)
God created grass, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit each according to its own kind, the creatures that move in the waters according to their kind, the birds with wings according to their kind, and livestock, creeping things, and beasts of the earth according to their kind. Therefore, the species of all living creatures have not evolved.
Genesis 1:11 And God said, “Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, on the earth.” And it was so.
Genesis 1:21 So God created the great sea creatures and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarm, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.
Genesis 1:24 And God said, “Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds—livestock and creeping things and beasts of the earth according to their kinds.” And it was so.
How does a person who knows that the Lord is God confess their relationship with Him? (Psalm 100:3)
God is the one who made us, and we are His; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
Psalm 100:3 Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
How did God create me? (Job 10:10-12, 18; Psalm 139:13; Isaiah 44:2; 64:8)
God formed me with His hands. He poured me out like milk and curdled me like cheese. He knit me together in my mother’s womb, clothed me with skin and flesh, and wove me together with bones and sinews. He granted me life and grace, and He brought me forth from the womb.
Job 10:10 Did you not pour me out like milk and curdle me like cheese? 11 You clothed me with skin and flesh, and knit me together with bones and sinews. 12 You have granted me life and steadfast love, and your care has preserved my spirit. 18 “Why did you bring me out from the womb? Would that I had died before any eye had seen me.”
Psalm 139:13 For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.
Isaiah 44:2 Thus says the Lord who made you, who formed you from the womb and will help you: Fear not, O Jacob my servant, Jeshurun whom I have chosen.
Isaiah 64:8 But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.
How was our heart formed? (Psalm 33:15)
God forms the hearts of us all, and He watches over everything we do.
Psalm 33:15 He who fashions the hearts of them all and observes all their deeds.
How was our spirit (the human spirit) formed? (Zechariah 12:1)
God has formed the spirit within man.
Zechariah 12:1 The oracle of the word of the Lord concerning Israel: Thus declares the Lord, who stretched out the heavens and founded the earth and formed the spirit of man within him.
As water reflects the face, what in a person reflects another? (Proverbs 27:19)
Just as water reflects the face, so a person’s heart reflects to another.
Proverbs 27:19 As in water face reflects face, so the heart of man reflects the man.
When did the Lord know me? (Jeremiah 1:5)
Before I was formed in the womb, the Lord knew me, and before I came out of the womb, He set me apart.
Jeremiah 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.
How did the Lord regard me after He created me? (Genesis 1:31)
After God created me, He looked at me and saw that it was very good.
Genesis 1:31 And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.
What promise did God make regarding my life after He created me? (Isaiah 46:3-4)
From the time I was born, I have been carried and upheld by God. And because He created me, He will carry me until my old age, even until my gray hairs. In other words, the Lord has promised to carry, uphold, and deliver me throughout my life.
Isaiah 46:3 Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from before your birth, carried from the womb; 4 even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.
How does God regard me, who is in Christ? (Zephaniah 3:17)
God is the one who, because of me, cannot contain His delight, who loves me quietly, and who rejoices over me with singing and gladness.
Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.
What responsibility did God give to man over all creation after creating him? (Genesis 1:28)
God said to the people, ‘Be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and every living creature that moves on the ground.’
Genesis 1:28 “And God blessed them. And God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.'”
Where are God’s eternal power and divine nature revealed? (Romans 1:19-23)
God has clearly shown it to be understood through the things He has made, so that people are without excuse.
Romans 1:19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools,23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.
In ‘For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son,’ the word ‘world’ in the original Scripture is κόσμος, which refers to the entire universe. How does God care for the birds of the air and the grass of the field? (Matthew 6:26-30)
The Heavenly Father also feeds the birds of the air and clothes the grass of the field.
Matthew 6:26-30 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?27 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?28 And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin,29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
What is the connection between a bird falling to the ground and God? (Matthew 10:29)
Not a single sparrow falls to the ground apart from your Father’s will.
Matthew 10:29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father.
Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard, but what is it like? (Psalm 19:2-4)
Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.
Psalm 19:2 Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.3 There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard.4 Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun.
Who are the suffering creatures waiting for because of mankind? (Romans 8:19-22)
The creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed.
Romans 8:19 For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.20 For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope21 that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.
What is the mission of God’s children toward the suffering creation?
What creation longs for is to be set free from its bondage to decay and to obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. Therefore, the mission of God’s children is to care for and steward creation, helping to free it from its suffering and to give it the freedom, like the sons of God.
3. The Relationship Between God’s Image and Obedience
When God created man, in whose image did He create him? (Genesis 1:26,27)
God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created them.
Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
What is the image of God? (John 1:14, 2 Corinthians 4:4, Colossians 1:15-18)
The image of God is Jesus Christ, who became flesh and dwelt among us.
John 1:14 “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
2 Corinthians 4:4 “In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
Colossians 1:15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.
Why is Jesus called the image of God? (John 14:7-10)
Though He is the Son of God, Jesus is the image of the Father because He is in the Father and the Father is in Him.
John 14:7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.8 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.”9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works.”
What does Jesus mean when He says, ‘Whoever has seen me has seen the Father’? (John 14:7-10, 8:28, 5:30, 12:49)
What Jesus does is not done by Himself, but the Father who is in Him is doing His work. That is why Jesus does not speak on His own, but speaks just as the Father has taught Him. Therefore, seeing Jesus is the same as seeing the Father.
John 14:7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.8 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.”9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works.
John 8:28 So Jesus said to them, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me.”
John 5:30 “I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me.”
John 12:49 “For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak.”
To what extent did Jesus obey the will of the Father? (Philippians 2:3-8)
Jesus humbled Himself and obeyed the will of the Father to the point of death, even death on a cross.
Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
Following the example of Jesus, who had reached perfection, who did Paul tell us to imitate? (Galatians 2:20, 1 Corinthians 11:1)
Paul, following the example of Christ who was obedient to the point of death, said that it is no longer he who lives but Christ who lives in him because he also died on the cross. Therefore, Paul showed people Jesus who lives in him and said, ‘Imitate me, as I imitate Christ.’
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
1 Corinthians 11:1 Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.
When people see you, who should they be seeing for you to be considered a Christian striving for perfection? (John 14:20-21)
Jesus is in me, and I am in Jesus, so seeing me should be the same as seeing Jesus.
John 14:20 In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.21 Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.
What blessings do we receive when we fully obey God’s Word? (Philippians 2:8-11, Deuteronomy 28:1-14)
God highly exalted Jesus and gave Him the name that is above every name, so that all would confess Jesus Christ as Lord. In the same way, for those who obey God’s Word, He will set them high above all the nations as His holy people, making them the head and not the tail. God will send rain in its season, and all the work of their hands will prosper. Their livestock and the produce of their land will increase, enabling them to lend to many nations and not borrow. There is no need to fear enemy attacks, for God will cause the enemy to be defeated and flee in seven directions. Most importantly, God will give blessing to their food and water, granting them a healthy life.
Philippians 2:8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name,10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Deuteronomy 28:1 And if you faithfully obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all his commandments that I command you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth.2 And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God.3 Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field.4 Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground and the fruit of your cattle, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock.5 Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl.6 Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.7 The Lord will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you. They shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways.8 The Lord will command the blessing on you in your barns and in all that you undertake. And he will bless you in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.9 The Lord will establish you as a people holy to himself, as he has sworn to you, if you keep the commandments of the Lord your God and walk in his ways.10 And all the peoples of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the Lord, and they shall be afraid of you.11 And the Lord will make you abound in prosperity, in the fruit of your womb and in the fruit of your livestock and in the fruit of your ground, within the land that the Lord swore to your fathers to give you.12 The Lord will open to you his good treasury, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hands. And you shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.13 And the Lord will make you the head and not the tail, and you shall only go up and not down, if you obey the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you today, being careful to do them,14 and if you do not turn aside from any of the words that I command you today, to the right hand or to the left, to go after other gods to serve them.
4. The Consequences of Disobedience
What does it mean that Adam, created in the image of God, fell? (Genesis 3:17, Romans 5:19)
Adam, by listening to his wife, who followed the serpent’s words, and by not obeying God’s word, lost God’s image and instead began to display the image of the serpent. Therefore, the Bible refers to fallen people by saying, “Your father is the devil.”
Genesis 3:17 And to Adam he said, ‘Because you have listened to the voice of your wife and have eaten of the tree of which I commanded you, “You shall not eat of it,” cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life.’
Romans 5:19 For as by the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous.
God said to Adam, “Do not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for on the day you eat of it, what will happen to you?” (Genesis 2:17)
On the day you eat of it, you shall surely die.
Genesis 2:17 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.
What did the serpent say about this? (Genesis 3:4)
The serpent, contrary to God’s word, said, ‘You will not surely die.’
Genesis 3:4 But the serpent said to the woman, ‘You will not surely die.’
What is the serpent that tempted and caused Eve to fall? (Revelation 20:2, 12:9)
The serpent that tempted Eve is the great dragon, the ancient serpent, the devil, or Satan.
Revelation 20:2 And he seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.
Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.
What are the works and titles of the devil? (John 8:44, 10:10, Ephesians 2:2, Matthew 13:19, 12:24, John 14:30, Revelation 12:9-10)
The devil is a murderer, the father of lies, a thief, the ruler of the power of the air, the one who deceives the whole world, the accuser of the brethren day and night, and the evil one. He is called Beelzebul, the prince of demons, the ruler of this world, the great dragon, the ancient serpent, the devil, and Satan.
John 8:44 You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Ephesians 2:2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience.
Matthew 13:19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path.
Matthew 12:24 But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, ‘It is only by Beelzebul, the prince of demons, that this man casts out demons.’
John 14:30 I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me.
Revelation 12:9 And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, ‘Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.'”
What kind of organization does the devil have? (Ephesians 6:12, Acts 7:42)
The devil is made up of the spirits of wickedness in heaven, and after being cast out of God’s kingdom, he has the organization of rulers, authorities, powers of this dark world, and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.
Acts 7:42 But God turned away and gave them over to worship the host of heaven, as it is written in the book of the prophets: ‘Did you bring to me slain beasts and sacrifices, during the forty years in the wilderness, O house of Israel?’
Whom does the devil seek to devour? (1 Peter 5:5-8)
The devil is always seeking to devour those who are not vigilant and steadfast in their faith.
1 Peter 5:5 “Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”
In whom does the devil work as a spirit? (Ephesians 2:2)
The devil is the spirit at work in the sons of disobedience.
Ephesians 2:2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience.
Who are those who cannot enter into rest? (Hebrews 3:18, 4:11)
Those who cannot enter into rest are those who do not obey.
Hebrews 3:18 And to whom did he swear that they would not enter his rest, but to those who were disobedient?
Hebrews 4:11 Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience.
Upon whom does God’s wrath come? (Ephesians 5:6, John 3:36)
God’s wrath comes upon the sons of disobedience.
Ephesians 5:6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.
John 3:36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.
5. All Have Sinned
What is the general condition of a person’s heart? (Genesis 8:21, Jeremiah 17:9, Matthew 15:19)
The heart of a person is deceitful and exceedingly corrupt, and from youth, the intentions of the heart are evil. Therefore, what comes out of the heart are evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, and slander.
Genesis 8:21 And when the Lord smelled the pleasing aroma, the Lord said in his heart, ‘I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man’s heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature as I have done.’
Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?
Matthew 15:19 For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.
What has separated people from God and prevented them from reaching God’s glory? (Romans 3:23, Isaiah 59:2)
Sin separates people from God. Since all have committed sin, they have fallen short of the glory of God.
Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Isaiah 59:2 But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.
Regarding sin, it was said, ‘because they do not believe in me.’ Who is ‘me’ referring to? (John 16:9)
Because Jesus spoke these words, ‘me’ refers to Jesus Himself.
John 16:9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me.
When Adam and Eve ate the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil, what happened to their eyes? (Genesis 3:5, 7)
Their eyes were opened, and they realized they were naked, so they sewed fig leaves together and made loincloths for themselves.
Genesis 3:5 For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.
Genesis 3:7 Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths.
What is the reason sin remains in us and does not depart? (John 9:41)
Because we (………………..) the sin remains in us.
John 9:41 Jesus said to them, ‘If you were blind, you would have no guilt; but now that you say, “We see,” your guilt remains.’
What caused death to come upon all people? (Romans 5:12, 6:23)
Death came as a result of sin.
Romans 5:12 Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
It is appointed for man to die once, and what comes after that? (Hebrews 9:27)
It is appointed for man to die once, and after that, there will be judgment.
Hebrews 9:27 And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.
What is God’s judgment like? (Genesis 18:25, Psalm 9:8, Ecclesiastes 12:14, John 5:30, Romans 2:6-10, 12, Romans 3:19, Revelation 16:5, 7)
God judges each person according to their deeds, and His judgment is fair, just, righteous, and true.
Genesis 18:25 Far be it from you to do such a thing, to put the righteous to death with the wicked, so that the righteous fare as the wicked! Far be that from you! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?
Psalm 9:8 And he judges the world with righteousness; he judges the peoples with uprightness.
Ecclesiastes 12:14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.
John 5:30 I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me.
Romans 2:6-10 He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury. There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek, but glory and honor and peace for everyone who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek.
Romans 2:12 For all who have sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law.
Romans 3:19 Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God.
Revelation 16:5 And I heard the angel in charge of the waters say, ‘Just are you, O Holy One, who is and who was, for you brought these judgments.’
Revelation 16:7 And I heard the altar saying, ‘Yes, Lord God the Almighty, true and just are your judgments!’
To what extent does God know my actions that He judges fairly? (Psalm 139:2-4)
You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You discern my thoughts from afar. You have searched out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, You know it altogether.
Psalm 139:2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar.3 You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways.4 Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.
What is God’s judgment concerning you? (John 3:18, 5:24, 29, Revelation 20:11-15)
If your name is written in the Book of Life, you will avoid judgment, but if it is not written, you will be thrown into the lake of fire.
John 3:18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.
John 5:24 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.
John 5:29 and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment.
Revelation 20:11 Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. From his presence earth and sky fled away, and no place was found for them.12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done.13 And the sea gave up the dead who were in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them, and they were judged, each one of them, according to what they had done.14 Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.15 And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.
What kind of place is hell? (Matthew 8:11-12, Matthew 25:30, 41, 46, Mark 9:43, 48, 49, Revelation 19:20, Revelation 20:14-15, 2 Thessalonians 1:9)
Hell is a place of outer darkness, eternal fire, unquenchable flames, where the worm never dies, where people are salted with fire. It is a place of everlasting punishment, the lake of fire burning with sulfur, the fiery pit, and where souls face the eternal destruction of God’s judgment.
Matthew 8:11 I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven,12 while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Matthew 25:30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Matthew 25:41 Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’
Matthew 25:46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.
Mark 9:43 And if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than with two hands to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire.
Mark 9:48 ‘where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.’49 For everyone will be salted with fire.
Revelation 19:20 And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who in its presence had done the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur.
Revelation 20:14 Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.15 And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.
2 Thessalonians 1:9 They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might.
What are God’s thoughts toward us, who are caught in sin? (Jeremiah 29:11)
The Lord says, ‘For I know the plans I have for you, plans for peace and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.’
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
B. God Who Saves Us from Sin
1. Justification
1) Circumcision of the heart
What is the sign that Abraham and his descendants are the covenant people of God? (Genesis 17:10, 14)
The sign of being a covenant people is circumcision. If one does not receive circumcision, they are breaking God’s covenant and will be cut off from the people.
Genesis 17:10 “This is my covenant, which you shall keep, between me and you and your offspring after you: Every male among you shall be circumcised.”
Genesis 17:14 “Any uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin shall be cut off from his people; he has broken my covenant.”
What effect does circumcision in the flesh have? (Galatians 5:6, 6:15, 1 Corinthians 7:18-19)
In Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any effect. Therefore, being circumcised is nothing, and not being circumcised is nothing.
Galatians 5:6 “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.”
Galatians 6:15 “For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.”
1 Corinthians 7:18 “Was anyone at the time of his call already circumcised? Let him not seek to remove the marks of circumcision. Was anyone at the time of his call uncircumcised? Let him not seek circumcision.
19 For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God.”
Who performs circumcision, and where is it done? (Deuteronomy 10:16, Jeremiah 4:4)
When someone desires to receive circumcision, our God performs circumcision on that person’s heart.
Deuteronomy 10:16 “Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn.”
Jeremiah 4:4 “Circumcise yourselves to the Lord; remove the foreskin of your hearts, O men of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem; lest my wrath go forth like fire, and burn with none to quench it, because of the evil of your deeds.”
Why does God intend to perform circumcision on our hearts and the hearts of our descendants? (Deuteronomy 30:6)
The circumcision of the heart is necessary so that we may love God with all our heart and all our soul, and also for God to give us life.
Deuteronomy 30:6 “And the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.”
What is the spiritual life like for someone who has not received circumcision of the heart? (Acts 7:51)
Those who have not received circumcision of the heart and ears are stiff-necked and always resist the Holy Spirit.
Acts 7:51 “You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you.”
What is the meaning of an outward Jew and an inward Jew? (Romans 2:28-29)
An outward Jew is one born of Jewish descent and circumcised in the flesh, while an inward Jew is a Christian who has received circumcision of the heart.
Romans 2:28 “For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. 29 But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God.”
To whom do those who belong to Jesus Christ trace their lineage? (Galatians 3:29)
Those who belong to Jesus Christ, having received circumcision of the heart, are the descendants of Abraham.
Galatians 3:29 “And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.”
What does it mean that Jesus will save His people from their sins, and who are His people? (Matthew 1:21, Hebrews 7:14)
Since Jesus was born from the tribe of Judah, His people refer to the spiritual Jews, those who have received circumcision of the heart.
Matthew 1:21 “She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
Hebrews 7:14 “For it is evident that our Lord was descended from Judah, and in connection with that tribe Moses said nothing about priests.”
2) The blood of Jesus
Where are our sins recorded? (Jeremiah 17:1)
The sin of Judah is written with an iron pen, with a diamond point; it is engraved on the tablet of their hearts and on the horns of their altars. Therefore, we can understand that the sins of inward Jews, like us, are recorded in two places: on the tablet of our hearts and on the horns of the altar.
Jeremiah 17:1 “The sin of Judah is written with a pen of iron; with a point of diamond it is engraved on the tablet of their heart, and on the horns of their altars.”
What can wash away sin, and why? (Leviticus 17:11, 16:18-19, Hebrews 10:22)
Since life is in the blood, by sprinkling blood on the altar, applying blood to the horns of the altar where our sins are recorded, and sprinkling blood on our hearts, our sins can be washed away.
Leviticus 17:11 “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.”
Leviticus 16:18 “Then he shall go out to the altar that is before the Lord and make atonement for it, and shall take some of the blood of the bull and of the blood of the goat, and put it on the horns of the altar all around. 19 And he shall sprinkle some of the blood on it with his finger seven times, and cleanse it and consecrate it from the uncleannesses of the people of Israel.”
Hebrews 10:22 “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”
What kind of offering should we present to God? (Exodus 12:5, Leviticus 1:3,10)
It must be an animal from the young cattle, goats, or lambs without blemish, or a young pigeon.
Exodus 12:5 “Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male a year old. You may take it from the sheep or from the goats.”
Leviticus 1:3 “If his offering is a burnt offering from the herd, he shall offer a male without blemish. He shall bring it to the entrance of the tent of meeting, that he may be accepted before the Lord.”
Leviticus 1:10 “If his gift for a burnt offering is from the flock, from the sheep or goats, he shall bring a male without blemish.”
After reading Leviticus 16, how did God instruct the method for cleansing sin?
The high priest would kill a bull and a goat, apply their blood to the horns of the altar, and sprinkle it seven times to consecrate the altar. Then, after laying his hands on the head of the scapegoat (Azazel) and confessing all the sins of the people, the goat would be sent into the wilderness.
Why is it said that the blood of bulls and goats cannot take away sins? (Hebrews 10:1-4)
The blood of bulls and goats cannot take away sins because they are merely a shadow of the good things to come.
Hebrews 10:1 For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities, it can never, by the same sacrifices that are continually offered every year, make perfect those who draw near. 2 Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, since the worshipers, having once been cleansed, would no longer have any consciousness of sins? 3 But in these sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. 4 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.
What is the sacrificial system that God showed Moses? (Hebrews 8:5, 9:9)
The sacrificial system in the Old Testament is a copy and shadow of the things in heaven or a symbol.
Hebrews 8:5 “They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. For when Moses was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, ‘See that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.'”
Hebrews 9:9 “(which is symbolic for the present age). According to this arrangement, gifts and sacrifices are offered that cannot perfect the conscience of the worshiper.”
What is the reality behind the copies, shadows, and parables? (Hebrews 10:9-10, 18-20)
The reality is Jesus Christ, who became the sacrificial Lamb, and Jesus Christ, who, after His resurrection, serves as our High Priest.
Hebrews 10:9 then he added, “Behold, I have come to do your will.” He does away with the first in order to establish the second.10 And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
Hebrews 10:18 Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus,20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh.
What did Jesus become in relation to our sins? (John 1:29, 1 Corinthians 5:7, Romans 3:25)
Jesus became the Lamb of God (Azazel) who takes away the sins of the world, the Passover Lamb, and the atoning sacrifice for our sins.
John 1:29 “The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!'”
1 Corinthians 5:7 “Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.”
Romans 3:25 “whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.”
For what did Jesus give His life for many people? (Mark 10:45, 1 Timothy 2:6, 1 John 2:2, 4:10)
Jesus gave His life as a ransom for many, and He became the atoning sacrifice for our sins.
Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
1 Timothy 2:6 “Who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.”
1 John 2:2 “He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.”
1 John 4:10 “In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”
What kind of sacrifice is Jesus, considering that offerings to God must be without blemish? (Hebrews 4:15, 9:14; 1 Peter 1:19, 2:22-23; 1 John 3:5; 2 Corinthians 5:21)
Jesus, like a lamb without blemish or spot, is completely without sin.
Hebrews 4:15 “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.”
Hebrews 9:14 “How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.”
1 Peter 1:19 “But with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.”
1 Peter 2:22-23 “He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.”
1 John 3:5 “You know that he appeared in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin.”
2 Corinthians 5:21 “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
What did Jesus pour out when He became the sacrifice on the cross? (Colossians 1:20, John 19:34)
He poured out both water and blood from His body.
Colossians 1:20 “and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross”.
John 19:34 “But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water”.
What does the blood of Jesus do? (Matthew 26:28, John 6:53-56, Romans 3:24-25, 5:9, Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:20, Hebrews 10:19, 13:12, 9:14, 1 Peter 1:18-19, 1 John 1:7, Revelation 1:5, 5:9, 7:14, 12:9-11)
The blood of Jesus Christ is the blood of the covenant that brings forgiveness of sins. It is true drink, and through His blood we are justified, reconciled with God, and made holy, allowing us to enter the sanctuary. His blood cleanses our consciences so we may serve God, purifies us from all sin, and sets us free from sin. Furthermore, Jesus Christ purchased us with His blood and offered us to God, washing our robes white with His blood. Moreover, His blood gives us the power to overcome the devil.
Matthew 26:28 “for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
John 6:53-56 “So Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him.'”
Romans 3:24-25 “and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.”
Romans 5:9 “Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.”
Ephesians 1:7 “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.”
Colossians 1:20 “and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.”
Hebrews 10:19 “Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus.”
Hebrews 13:12 “So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood.”
Hebrews 9:14 “how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.”
1 Peter 1:18-19 “knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.”
1 John 1:7 “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”
Revelation 1:5 “and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood.”
Revelation 5:9 “And they sang a new song, saying, ‘Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.'”
Revelation 7:14 “I said to him, ‘Sir, you know.’ And he said to me, ‘These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.'”
Revelation 12:9-11 “And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, ‘Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.'”
What is the significance of Jesus’ death on the cross for me? (Romans 4:25)
Jesus was delivered up for my transgressions.
Romans 4:25 “who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.”
3) The resurrection of Jesus
What is the significance of Jesus’ resurrection for me? (Romans 4:25)
Jesus was raised for my justification.
Romans 4:25 “who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.”
To whom did God give the authority to sprinkle blood for the cleansing of sins? (Hebrews 7:1-25, 8:3, 9:7)
God gave the authority to sprinkle blood to the high priest.
Hebrews 8:3 “For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices; thus it is necessary for this priest also to have something to offer.”
Hebrews 9:7 “But into the second only the high priest goes, and he but once a year, and not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the unintentional sins of the people.”
What authority did God give to the risen Jesus concerning our sins? (Hebrews 2:17, 4:14, 5:4-6)
God gave the risen Jesus the authority of a high priest.
Hebrews 2:17 “Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.”
Hebrews 4:14 “Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.”
Hebrews 5:4-6 “And no one takes this honor for himself, but only when called by God, just as Aaron was. So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, ‘You are my Son, today I have begotten you’; as he says also in another place, ‘You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.'”
How can we participate in the ritual of sprinkling blood to be justified? (Hebrews 11:28)
God made the ritual of sprinkling blood a spiritual one, so we can participate through faith.
Hebrews 11:28 “By faith he kept the Passover and sprinkled the blood, so that the Destroyer of the firstborn might not touch them.”
Where does Jesus, our High Priest, sprinkle His blood? (Hebrews 10:22, Exodus 12:7)
esus sprinkles His blood on our hearts, where our sins are recorded.
Hebrews 10:22 “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”
Exodus 12:7 “Then they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat it.”
Where would we be if Jesus had not risen again, and why? (1 Corinthians 15:17)
Our faith would be in vain, and we would remain in our sins. This is because, although the blood for atonement was shed through Jesus’ death on the cross, without His resurrection, there would be no High Priest to sprinkle that blood, leaving our sins unforgiven.
1 Corinthians 15:17 “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.”
What faith must we hold firmly to? (Hebrews 4:14)
We must hold firmly to the faith that Jesus Christ, who has risen and ascended, serves as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary.
Hebrews 4:14 “Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.”
What does Jesus do for those whom He has sprinkled with His blood? (Revelation 5:9, Acts 20:28, 1 Corinthians 6:20)
Jesus purchased them with His blood and presents them to God.
Revelation 5:9 “And they sang a new song, saying, ‘Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.'”
Acts 20:28 “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”
1 Corinthians 6:20 “For you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
4) A change in values
For what purpose was the Scripture sent to those who were chosen? (1 Peter 1:2)
It was sent to those who were chosen to receive the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 1:2 “according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood: May grace and peace be multiplied to you.”
Who do those who have received the grace of justification belong to? (Romans 1:5-6, Galatians 3:29, 1 Peter 2:9)
When one receives the grace of justification, they become the possession of Jesus Christ.
Romans 1:5-6 “through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.”
Galatians 3:29 “And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.”
1 Peter 2:9 “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”
What role does the conscience play? (Romans 2:15)
When their thoughts accuse or excuse one another, the conscience plays the role of bearing witness.
Romans 2:15 “They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them.”
What do you call the conscience of someone who uses something that is not theirs as they please? (Hebrews 10:22)
Such a person’s conscience is wrong and can be called an evil conscience.
Hebrews 10:22 “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”
What is a good conscience? Can you confess that you have a good conscience? (1 Corinthians 15:10, Galatians 2:20)
A good conscience is when one confesses, “Because the Lord purchased me with His blood and gave me to God, I am no longer my own but belong to the Lord. Therefore, I cannot live according to my own will but will live according to the Lord’s will for Him.”
1 Corinthians 15:10 “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.”
Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
What happens to a person’s conscience when they receive the grace of the sprinkling of blood? (Hebrews 10:22, 9:14, 1 Timothy 1:19)
When a person receives the grace of the sprinkling of blood, their evil conscience is transformed into a good, purified conscience.
Hebrews 10:22 “Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”
Hebrews 9:14 “How much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without blemish to God, purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.”
1 Timothy 1:19 “Holding faith and a good conscience. By rejecting this, some have made shipwreck of their faith.”
Who can draw near to God? (Hebrews 10:19-22, Ephesians 2:18-19)
Since we can enter the Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, we can draw near to God with a true heart and full assurance of faith when we have been sprinkled with His blood and freed from an evil conscience.
Hebrews 10:19-22 “Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.”
Ephesians 2:18-19 “For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.”
When should we receive God’s grace? (2 Corinthians 6:2, James 4:14)
We must decide now, because now is the favorable time to receive grace, and behold, now is the day of salvation, as the Scriptures say. Furthermore, we do not know what tomorrow may bring.
2 Corinthians 6:2 “For he says, ‘In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.’ Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
James 4:14 “Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.”
What can you do to receive the grace of justification? (Mark 1:15, Luke 24:47, Romans 2:4, Galatians 2:16, Romans 4:5)
To receive the grace of justification, we must have repentance and faith.
Mark 1:15 “And saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.'”
Luke 24:47 “And that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”
Romans 2:4 “Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?”
Galatians 2:16 “Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.”
Romans 4:5 “And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.”
What is the faith required to be justified? (Romans 4:3-8, Ephesians 2:1)
It is the faith that believes I was dead in my trespasses and sins and, as a sinner deserving of hell, Jesus shed His atoning blood to save me. When I believe this, God sees my faith and justifies me.
Romans 4:3-8 “For what does the Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.’ Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness, just as David also speaks of the blessing of the one to whom God counts righteousness apart from works: ‘Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.'”
Ephesians 2:1 “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins.”
What is the difference between wages and grace? (Romans 4:4)
Wages are the payment a worker receives for the work done, while grace is something given freely, out of compassion, even though nothing was done to deserve it.
Romans 4:4 “Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due.”
Why can’t we be justified by works of the law? (Galatians 2:16-17)
No flesh can be justified by works of the law because, when we are in the flesh, we do not regard God’s grace as grace but rather as something earned, leading us to complain and commit all kinds of sins.
Galatians 2:16-17 “Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified. But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we too were found to be sinners, is Christ then a servant of sin? Certainly not!”
What does the statement “a person is justified by works and not by faith alone” mean? (James 2:14-26)
It means that faith without works is dead. Therefore, faith comes first, and then that faith is proven genuine by actions.
James 2:20-22 “Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works.”
What are we no longer under, and what blessings do we receive when we have the faith of justification? (Galatians 3:2, 5, 9-14, 27-29)
We are no longer under the law and receive the blessings promised to Abraham, including the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Galatians 3:2 “Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith?”
Galatians 3:5 “Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith?”
Galatians 3:9-14 “So then, those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. 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.’ Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’ But the law is not of faith, rather ‘The one who does them shall live by them.’ Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree’—so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.”
Galatians 3:27-29 “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.”
How does the Holy Spirit help me confess Jesus Christ? (1 Corinthians 12:3, Matthew 16:16-17)
The Holy Spirit enables me to confess Jesus as Lord.
1 Corinthians 12:3 “Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says ‘Jesus is accursed!’ and no one can say ‘Jesus is Lord’ except in the Holy Spirit.”
Matthew 16:16-17 “Simon Peter replied, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’ And Jesus answered him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.'”
How can we know if calling Jesus ‘Lord’ is by the Spirit’s faith or not? (John 3:36, Matthew 7:18-27, James 2:26)
A person who confesses Jesus as Lord by the Spirit will obey the Lord’s words. However, faith without works, that is, without obedience, is dead.
John 3:36 “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.”
Matthew 7:18-27 “A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”
James 2:26 “For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.”
What status does a person with justifying faith in Christ Jesus gain? (Galatians 3:26)
A person in Christ Jesus gains the status of being a child of God.
Galatians 3:26 “For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.”
When you become a child of God, where is your name written? (Revelation 20:12, 15)
The names of God’s children are written in the Book of Life.
Revelation 20:12 “And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done.”
Revelation 20:15 “And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”
How can we distinguish between the children of God and the children of the devil? (1 John 3:1-10)
The distinction is made based on whether a person sins or not, whether they practice righteousness or not, and whether they love their brothers or not.
1 John 3:1-10 “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. You know that he appeared to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him. Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous. Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God. By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.”
Who testifies that you are a child of God? (Romans 8:16, Galatians 4:6)
The Holy Spirit testifies that I am a child of God, and because of this, I am able to call God “Father.”
Romans 8:16 “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.”
Galatians 4:6 “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!'”
What is Jesus’ relationship with me? (John 1:1, 8, 20:28; Romans 9:5; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 12:2; Acts 3:15; 1 Corinthians 2:8; Philippians 2:11; Hebrews 4:14; John 10:11, 14; Luke 2:11; Romans 11:26; Hebrews 2:10; 1 Timothy 2:5; John 15:14-15; 1 John 2:1; John 14:6; 10:7,9; 1:9; 8:12; 9:5)
Jesus is my God, Creator, Lord, High Priest, King, Good Shepherd, Friend, Savior, Mediator, Advocate, and Head. He is also the Way, the Truth, and the Life for me, the Light, the Door, and the Bread of Life.
John 1:1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
John 1:8 “He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.”
John 20:28 “Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!'”
Romans 9:5 “To them belong the patriarchs, and from their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever. Amen.”
Colossians 1:16 “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.”
Hebrews 12:2 “Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Acts 3:15 “And you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses.”
1 Corinthians 2:8 “None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.”
Philippians 2:11 “And every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Hebrews 4:14 “Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.”
John 10:11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me.”
Luke 2:11 “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
Romans 11:26 “And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, ‘The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob.'”
Hebrews 2:10 “For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.”
1 Timothy 2:5 “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
John 15:14-15 “You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.”
1 John 2:1 “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”
John 14:6 “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”
John 10:7 “So Jesus again said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep.'”
John 10:9 “I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.”
John 1:9 “The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.”
John 8:12 “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'”
John 9:5 “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”
Take a moment now to examine your faith and reflect on whether you are serving Jesus as your King and Lord in every moment of your daily life. Then, make your decision and spend time in prayer.
2. Conversion
Conversion is the act of putting off the old self and putting on the new. It is the transformation from a self-centered life to a Christ-centered life. Therefore, conversion marks the beginning of a life of obedience to the Lord, accompanied by the assurance of justification and the confirmation of the Holy Spirit.
1) From a person of the flesh to a person of the Spirit
What is the “old self” (the person of the flesh) according to the Bible? (Colossians 3:5-9, Ephesians 4:22, Romans 1:29-31, Galatians 5:19-21)
The old self is characterized by following the corrupted desires of the flesh. It includes lying, pride, boasting, slander, gossip, anger, divisions, factions, abusive language, foolish talk, mocking, uproar, wrath, unrighteousness, wickedness, evil schemes, idolatry, heresy, deceit, malice, theft, immorality, evil desires, lust, impurity, disputes, enmity, betrayal, jealousy, quarreling, murder, lack of conscience, heartlessness, cruelty, greed, drunkenness, debauchery, disobedience to parents, and all forms of wickedness.
Colossians 3:5-9 “Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices.”
Ephesians 4:22 “To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires.”
Romans 1:29-31 “They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless.”
Galatians 5:19-21 “Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
What is the “new self” (the person of the Spirit)? (Colossians 3:10-12, Ephesians 4:23-24)
The new self is created after the image of God in true righteousness and holiness. It is characterized by compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, not letting the sun go down on anger, generosity, working with one’s hands, being kind, forgiving one another, speaking truth, using words that build up, speaking with gratitude, and in everything—whether in word or deed—doing it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Colossians 3:10-12 “And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all. Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.”
Ephesians 4:23-24 “And to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”
What happens to anyone who is converted and in Christ? (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Anyone who is in Christ becomes a new creation. The old has passed away, and from now on, everything has become new.
2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
Where is one’s citizenship when they are born again? (Philippians 3:20)
When someone is born again, their citizenship is in Heaven, that is, in the Kingdom of God or the Kingdom of Heaven.
Philippians 3:20 “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Who did Jesus say would enter the Kingdom of Heaven? (Matthew 7:21)
Jesus said that only those who do the will of the Father in Heaven will enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
Matthew 7:21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
How are people separated into eternal punishment and eternal life? (Matthew 25:31-46)
People are separated into eternal life or eternal punishment based on how they treated even the least of the Lord’s brothers and sisters through acts of kindness.
Matthew 25:40-46 “And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
Who did Jesus say are His brothers? (Matthew 12:50)
Jesus said that whoever does the will of my Father in Heaven is my brother, sister, and mother.
Matthew 12:50 “For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”
How does the Bible describe someone who attends church but is still worldly? (1 Corinthians 3:1-2)
The Bible says that if someone is still worldly, even though they attend church, they are infants in Christ.
1 Corinthians 3:1-2 “But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ. I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it. And even now you are not yet ready.”
How does a worldly person behave? (1 Corinthians 3:3, Galatians 5:17-21)
A worldly person does not follow the Spirit but follows the desires of the flesh, leading to jealousy, strife, and other conflicts.
1 Corinthians 3:3 “For you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way?”
Galatians 5:17-21 “For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
What is the elementary doctrine of God’s Word? (Hebrews 5:12-14, 6:1-2)
The elementary doctrine refers to a faith that remains focused on basic teachings such as repentance from dead works, faith in God, instructions about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment, without progressing toward spiritual maturity and perfection.
Hebrews 5:12-14 “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.”
Hebrews 6:1-2 “Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.”
Who is a mature person in Christ? (Hebrews 5:12-14)
A mature person in Christ is someone who has moved beyond the elementary teachings of God’s Word, has experienced the word of righteousness, and through constant practice has trained their senses to distinguish between good and evil. This person sets an example and teaches others.
Hebrews 5:12-14 “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.”
What happens if someone continues to hear God’s Word but fails to combine it with faith? (Hebrews 4:1-2)
Even though the promise of entering His rest still stands, they will not be able to enter it.
Hebrews 4:1-2 “Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it. For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened.”
What happens to a person who continues to follow the flesh until the end, instead of the Spirit? (Hebrews 6:7-8)
If a person lives a fleshly life, producing thorns and thistles, they will be rejected and near to being cursed, and their end is to be burned.
Hebrews 6:7-8 “For land that has drunk the rain that often falls on it, and produces a crop useful to those for whose sake it is cultivated, receives a blessing from God. But if it bears thorns and thistles, it is worthless and near to being cursed, and its end is to be burned.”
2) Being born again through the Holy Spirit
How can we enter the Kingdom of God? (John 3:3-6)
Jesus said, “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.'” Therefore, we must be born again by the water and the Spirit to enter the Kingdom of God.
John 3:3-6 “Jesus answered him, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.’ Nicodemus said to him, ‘How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?’ Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.'”
Why did the Lord say that unless we become like little children, we cannot enter the Kingdom of Heaven? (Matthew 18:3-4, Mark 10:15, Luke 10:21, 1 Corinthians 1:27-29)
The Lord compared those who humble themselves, or those who are not wise and powerful by worldly standards, to little children. Therefore, it is those who humble themselves like a little child who receive the Kingdom of God and are able to enter it.
Matthew 18:3-4 “And said, ‘Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'”
Mark 10:15 “‘Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.'”
Luke 10:21 “In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, ‘I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.'”
1 Corinthians 1:27-29 “But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God.”
Where is the Kingdom of God? (Luke 17:20-21)
Jesus said, “The kingdom of God is not coming in ways that can be observed, nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.”
Luke 17:20-21 “Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, he answered them, ‘The kingdom of God is not coming in ways that can be observed, nor will they say, “Look, here it is!” or “There!” for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.'”
What kind of place is the Kingdom of God? (Matthew 12:28, Romans 14:17)
The Kingdom of God is a place of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, established by driving out demons through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 12:28 “But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.”
Romans 14:17 “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
How does the Bible describe and symbolize the Holy Spirit? (John 3:8, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Isaiah 32:15)
The Bible compares the Holy Spirit to the wind, and says that “all were baptized by one Spirit into one body and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” It also uses the expression of pouring out the Spirit.
John 3:8 “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 12:13 “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”
Isaiah 32:15 “Until the Spirit is poured upon us from on high, and the wilderness becomes a fruitful field, and the fruitful field is deemed a forest.”
What is the breath of a person born again by the Holy Spirit? (2 Corinthians 13:13, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Luke 11:13)
A person born again by the Holy Spirit must have fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Since the Heavenly Father has said He will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask, we must pray without ceasing to have fellowship with the Spirit. Therefore, prayer is the breath of the soul, through which we commune with the Holy Spirit.
2 Corinthians 13:13 “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
1 Thessalonians 5:17 “Pray without ceasing.”
Luke 11:13 “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
What is the “milk” that a person born again by the Holy Spirit should drink? (1 Peter 2:2, Isaiah 55:1, 1 Corinthians 3:2, Hebrews 5:12-14)
Just as newborn babies crave spiritual milk, this refers to the elementary teachings of the Word of God for salvation.
1 Peter 2:2 “Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—”
Isaiah 55:1 “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”
1 Corinthians 3:2 “I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it. And even now you are not yet ready,”
Hebrews 5:12-14 “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.”
After a person born again by the Holy Spirit is weaned from milk, what should they eat in order to mature? (Hebrews 5:12-14)
They should eat solid food, which is experienced through training and discipline in the word of righteousness.
Hebrews 5:12-14 “For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.”
What words does a person born spiritually learn? (Philippians 3:20, John 8:47)
A person who belongs to God hears God’s words, and therefore learns the language of the Kingdom of God.
Philippians 3:20 “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,”
John 8:47 “Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.”
How can we distinguish whether a person is born again by the Holy Spirit or not? (Matthew 12:28-37)
Every person speaks from the fullness of their heart. A good person brings forth good from the good stored up in them, while an evil person brings forth evil from the evil stored up in them. Therefore, you can tell by listening to their words.
Matthew 12:34-35 “You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The good person out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure brings forth evil.”
What is the basis for you being able to call God “Abba Father”? (Romans 8:14-16, Galatians 4:6)
It is because the Holy Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children, and therefore, we cry out to God as “Abba Father.”
Romans 8:14-16 “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’ The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,”
Galatians 4:6 “And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!'”
What is it that someone born of God cannot do? (1 John 3:9)
No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God.
1 John 3:9 “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God.”
3) Deliverance from the power of the devil
Who is in control of the whole world? (1 John 5:19)
The whole world lies in the power of the evil one.
1 John 5:19 “We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one.”
Who does the one who commits sin belong to? (1 John 3:7-8)
The one who commits sin belongs to the devil.
1 John 3:7-8 “Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous. Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.”
What did Jesus do in relation to the devil in this world? (Hebrews 2:14-17, 1 John 3:8, Acts 10:38)
Jesus freed all who were held in slavery by their fear of death, destroyed the works of the devil, and healed all who were oppressed by the devil.
Hebrews 2:14-17 “Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.”
1 John 3:8 “Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.”
Acts 10:38 “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”
How did Jesus overcome the works of the devil? (Colossians 2:14-15)
Jesus canceled the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. He set it aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.
Colossians 2:14-15 “By canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.”
When does the devil relinquish his control and leave? (Mark 16:17, Luke 10:17-19, Philippians 2:9-10)
The devil submits and leaves when he is commanded in the name of Jesus, bowing his knee.
Mark 16:17 “And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues;”
Luke 10:17-19 “The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, ‘Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!’ And he said to them, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you.'”
Philippians 2:9-10 “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,”
Why are people unable to believe the gospel and experience conversion? (2 Corinthians 4:3-4)
It is because the god of this world has blinded the minds of unbelievers, preventing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ from shining on them, which is why they cannot come to conversion.
2 Corinthians 4:3-4 “And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
How does Satan disguise himself when approaching people? (2 Corinthians 11:14)
Satan disguises himself as an angel of light when he approaches people.
2 Corinthians 11:14 “And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.”
How do Satan’s servants disguise themselves? (2 Corinthians 11:14-15)
Satan’s servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness.
2 Corinthians 11:14-15 “And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.”
How should we resist the devil when he approaches disguised as an angel of light or a servant of righteousness? (Revelation 12:11, James 4:7, 1 Peter 5:8-9, Ephesians 6:11-17)
We must resist him with the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
Revelation 12:11 “And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.”
James 4:7 “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
1 Peter 5:8-9 “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.”
Ephesians 6:11-17 “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,”
What is the whole armor of God? (Ephesians 6:11-17)
The whole armor of God consists of the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
What must be done after a demon has left? (Matthew 12:43-45, Ephesians 5:18)
After an evil spirit has gone out, it may return with seven more wicked spirits, so one must be filled with the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 12:43-45 “When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, but finds none. Then it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when it comes, it finds the house empty, swept, and put in order. Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and dwell there, and the last state of that person is worse than the first. So also will it be with this evil generation.”
Ephesians 5:18 “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,”
Why does the one born of God not commit sin? (1 John 5:18)
We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin because the one who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.
1 John 5:18 “We know that everyone who has been born of God does not keep on sinning, but he who was born of God protects him, and the evil one does not touch him.”
What were all angels created to do? (Hebrews 1:14, Matthew 18:10)
All angels are created as ministering spirits, sent by God to serve those who will inherit salvation.
Hebrews 1:14 “Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?”
Matthew 18:10 “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.”
How do God’s children have authority over angels? (1 Corinthians 6:3)
God’s children have the authority to judge the world and angels.
1 Corinthians 6:3 “Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, then, matters pertaining to this life!”
C. God Who Sanctifies Us as the Body of Christ
1. Sanctification
1) A life of continual repentance
What causes many Christians, even after becoming righteous, to have a broken spirit and not grow spiritually? (2 Peter 2:8)
It is because, though they are righteous, when they live among sinners and day after day see and hear their lawless deeds, their righteous soul is tormented.
2 Peter 2:8 “For as that righteous man lived among them day after day, he was tormenting his righteous soul over their lawless deeds that he saw and heard.”
Is it acceptable for a born-again person to sin because they are under grace? (Romans 6:15-20)
Certainly not. Our old self, which was enslaved to sin, has been crucified and put to death, and we have been set free from sin. Although sin no longer has dominion over us, it still tempts. However, we live in the newness of life under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and therefore we must confess, “Shall we sin? By no means!”
Romans 6:15-20 “What then? Are we to sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed, and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness. I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations. For just as you once presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness leading to sanctification.”
What is the cry, “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” for? (Romans 8:4-6)
It expresses the despair of being enslaved to sin while living in the flesh, which results in death. In such a state, one is wretched. However, the Apostle Paul follows with, “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord,” signifying that through the grace of atonement, he has been freed from sin. With baptism, his flesh has been crucified, enabling him to reject sin and live according to the Spirit.
Romans 8:4-6 “In order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”
What does the phrase “I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin” mean? (Romans 7:14, 6:6)
The flesh (σάρξ) is enslaved to sin, and therefore it naturally serves the law of sin. However, the renewed self confesses that the flesh has died with Christ on the cross, and thus, by the Spirit (πνεῦμα), it serves the law of God.
Romans 7:14 “For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am of the flesh, sold under sin.
Romans 6:6 “We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.”
What did the Apostle John mean when he said, “Let no one deceive you”? (1 John 3:5-9)
Even though it is written, “No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God,” this statement warns against being deceived by the notion that someone born of God can still live in sin. The point is to not rationalize or justify committing sin under this misconception.
1 John 3:5-9 “You know that he appeared in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him. Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous. Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God.”
Does a person born of God, or a regenerated person, never sin? (Matthew 6:34, 10:28; Acts 15:36-39; Galatians 2:11-14)
The moment fear enters the heart, causing someone to turn away from faith, sin can take control. For example, we see instances such as the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas, or Peter’s hypocritical behavior when he withdrew from eating with Gentiles out of fear of the circumcision group. Therefore, even those born of God must maintain continual repentance and faith.
Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
Matthew 10:28 “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”
Acts 15:36-39 “And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, ‘Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.’ Now Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. But Paul thought best not to take with them one who had withdrawn from them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus,”
Galatians 2:11-14 “But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party. And the rest of the Jews acted hypocritically along with him, so that even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy. But when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, ‘If you, though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews?'”
What does “I die every day” mean in 1 Corinthians 15:31?
Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Therefore, the confession “I die every day” is a declaration made to walk with Christ. The moment we forget this confession, we fail to follow the Holy Spirit and succumb to sin.
1 Corinthians 15:31 “I protest, brothers, by my pride in you, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die every day!”
What kind of mindset should someone striving toward perfection have, according to the Apostle Paul (Philippians 3:12-15)?
A person striving toward perfection should have the mindset: “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, 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.”
2) A life that accomplishes God’s righteousness
What is revealed in the gospel? (Romans 1:17)
The righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”
Romans 1:17 “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.'”
What is the righteousness of God revealed in the gospel? (Romans 3:21-27)
The righteousness of God is that through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, we are justified freely by His grace. In this way, God demonstrates His own righteousness and also justifies those who have faith in Jesus.
Romans 3:21 “But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it—” 22 “the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction:” 23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” 24 “and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,” 25 “whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins.” 26 “It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” 27 “Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith.”
What does it mean to have zeal for God but fail to submit to His righteousness? (Romans 10:2-4, James 1:20, 4:11-12)
Among those who have zeal for God, failing to submit to His righteousness includes actions like anger that does not produce the righteousness of God (James 1:20) and criticizing or judging a brother (James 4:11-12). This is because such behavior is an attempt to establish one’s own righteousness, rather than submitting to the righteousness of God (Romans 10:3).
Romans 10:2 “For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.” 3 “For being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness.” 4 “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.”
James 1:20 “For the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
James 4:11 “Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge.” 12 “There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?”
What does it mean to live a life that fulfills the righteousness of God? (2 Corinthians 5:18-21)
God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). And God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has entrusted to us the message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:19). Therefore, living this kind of life is what it means to fulfill the righteousness of God.
2 Corinthians 5:18 “All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation;” 19 “that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” 20 “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” 21 “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
What decision did the Apostle Paul make to reveal the righteousness that comes from God? (Philippians 3:7-9)
He considered all things that were once gain to him as loss and regarded them as rubbish. Otherwise, he would be asserting his own righteousness, which would obscure the righteousness of God.
Philippians 3:7 “But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.” 8 “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ” 9 “and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.”
3) A life lived by faith
How does a person of faith live, if not by what they see? (2 Corinthians 5:7, Hebrews 10:38)
A person of faith lives by faith and not by sight. In other words, living by faith means not reacting to visible circumstances but responding according to faith.
2 Corinthians 5:7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
Hebrews 10:38 “But my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.”
What is anything that is not done in accordance with faith? (Romans 14:23)
Everything that is not done in accordance with faith is considered sin.
Romans 14:23 “But whoever has doubts is condemned if he eats, because the eating is not from faith. For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.”
What does it mean to “see”? (John 9:41, Genesis 3:5-7)
To “see” means to act without faith, and it is therefore considered sin. The spiritual world is invisible to the eye, but it is real. A person of faith does not become angry, judge, or condemn based solely on what they see and hear. For example, if someone judged Mary as an unclean woman for being pregnant without a husband’s involvement, it would be a sin, as it disregards the true nature of God’s work.
John 9:41 “Jesus said to them, ‘If you were blind, you would have no guilt; but now that you say, “We see,” your guilt remains.'”
Genesis 3:5 “For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” 6 “So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate.” 7 “Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths.”
How did the people of the flesh act when they killed Stephen? (Acts 6:11-14)
They bribed false witnesses to say, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against God.”
Acts 6:10 “But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking.” 11 “Then they secretly instigated men who said, ‘We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.'” 12 “And they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes, and they came upon him and seized him and brought him before the council,” 13 “and they set up false witnesses who said, ‘This man never ceases to speak words against this holy place and the law.'”
How does faith come about? (Romans 10:17)
Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
Romans 10:17 “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”
What should we say after obeying all of God’s commands if we want our faith to increase? (Luke 17:10)
After obeying all of God’s commands, we should say, “We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.”
Luke 17:10 “So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'”
Why is this the case? (Romans 4:4-5, Matthew 20:1-16)
To the one who works, their wages are not counted as grace but as obligation. Therefore, when the payment doesn’t meet their expectations, they grumble and complain. This is why we often see people’s faith weaken after they have worked in the church. For this reason, after obeying all of God’s commands, we must say, “We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.”
Romans 4:4 “Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due.” 5 “And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.”
Matthew 20:8 “And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.'” 9 “And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius.” 10 “Now when those hired first came, they thought they would receive more, but each of them also received a denarius.” 11 “And on receiving it they grumbled at the master of the house,” 12 “saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.'” 13 “But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius?'” 14 “‘Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you.'” 15 “‘Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?'” 16 “So the last will be first, and the first last.”
What is faith without works? (James 2:17-22)
Faith without works is useless and dead (James 2:17).
James 2:17 “So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” 18 “But someone will say, ‘You have faith and I have works.’ Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” 19 “You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!” 20 “Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless?” 21 “Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar?” 22 “You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works.”
What should we do when we have the assurance of faith in God’s Word? (Matthew 17:20, Luke 17:6)
When the assurance of faith comes, we experience God working according to His Word when we confess and declare it with our mouth.
Matthew 17:20 He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.”
Luke 17:6 And the Lord said, “If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.”
Romans 10:10 “For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.”
4) A life in the Holy Spirit
Who dwells in a born-again believer? (Romans 8:9, John 14:20)
The Spirit of Christ dwells in a born-again believer.
Romans 8:9 “You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.”
John 14:20 “In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.”
How does God work His will in us? (Philippians 2:13)
God works in us by giving us the desire and the ability to fulfill His good purpose.
Philippians 2:13 “For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”
To whom does God give the Holy Spirit? (Luke 11:13, Acts 2:38, Acts 5:32, Acts 8:15-17)
God gives the Holy Spirit as a gift to anyone who repents, is baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and receives forgiveness of sins. He also gives the Holy Spirit to those who ask and obey Him, and sometimes through the laying on of hands by His servants.
Luke 11:13 “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
Acts 2:38 “And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'”
Acts 5:32 “And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”
Acts 8:15-17 “Who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit.”
What does the Holy Spirit do? (John 14:26, 15:26, 16:8-14)
The Holy Spirit enables us to confess Jesus as Lord, teaches us all things, and brings to our remembrance everything the Lord has said. He also testifies about our Lord Jesus Christ, convicts the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment, guides us into all truth, and reveals future things to us.
John 14:26 “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”
John 15:26 “But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me.”
John 16:8-14 “And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.”
How can we fulfill the law when we were too weak to keep it? (Romans 8:3-4)
God enables the righteous requirement of the law to be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
Romans 8:3-4 “For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.”
What commitment is necessary to be people who follow the Spirit of Christ Jesus? (Galatians 5:24-25, 2:20)
The people of Christ Jesus are those who confess, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” The evidence of this commitment is expressed in the confession, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.”
Galatians 5:24-25 “And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.”
Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
What is my future if the Holy Spirit dwells in me? (Romans 8:11)
The God who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to our mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in us.
Romans 8:11 “If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.”
What are the fruits that are produced when we follow the Holy Spirit? (Galatians 5:22-23)
When we follow the Spirit, we bear the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
2. The Fruit of the Spirit
1) Love
How has God’s love been poured into the hearts of Christians? (Romans 5:5)
God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Romans 5:5 “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
How does Jesus love His own people? (John 13:1)
Jesus loved His own who were in the world, and He loved them to the end.
John 13:1 “Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.”
What does it mean to love God? (1 John 4:21)
To love God is to love our brothers and sisters according to the Lord’s commandment.
1 John 4:21 “And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.”
How is the love of a person led by the Holy Spirit expressed? (1 Corinthians 13:4-7, 1 Peter 4:8)
Love is patient and kind; it does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things, and covers a multitude of sins.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
1 Peter 4:8 “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”
How does a person led by the Holy Spirit treat their enemies? (Matthew 5:44, Psalm 109:4)
They love their enemies and pray for those who oppose them.
Matthew 5:44 “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Psalm 109:4 “In return for my love they accuse me, but I give myself to prayer.”
2) Joy
How does a person led by the Holy Spirit consider various trials? (James 1:2, 1 Peter 4:13, Colossians 1:24)
A person led by the Spirit considers it pure joy when they face various trials.
James 1:2 “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds.”
1 Peter 4:13 “But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.”
Colossians 1:24 “Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church.”
What did the Apostle Paul say he overflows with even in all his afflictions? (2 Corinthians 7:4, 2 Corinthians 12:10)
The Apostle Paul said that even in all his afflictions, he is filled with comfort and overflows with joy. He also said that, for the sake of Christ, he delights in weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and difficulties.
2 Corinthians 7:4 “I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.”
2 Corinthians 12:10 “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
How does a person led by the Holy Spirit regard being insulted, persecuted, and falsely accused because of Jesus Christ? (Matthew 5:11-12)
They consider such suffering as evidence that they are blessed, and because their reward in heaven is great, just like the prophets, they rejoice and are glad.
Matthew 5:11-12 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
What will be made full if we keep the commandment to love one another as Jesus has loved us? (John 15:9-12)
The Lord said, “As I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in His love, so if you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be full.”
John 15:9-12 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.”
When does a person in the Lord rejoice? (1 Thessalonians 5:16, Philippians 4:4)
A person in the Lord rejoices always.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 “Rejoice always.”
Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”
3) Peace
What kind of God is He, if not a God of disorder? (1 Corinthians 14:33, Philippians 4:9)
God is a God of peace.
1 Corinthians 14:33 “For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.”
Philippians 4:9 “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.”
What did the resurrected Jesus say when He met His disciples? (John 20:19, 26)
He said, “Peace be with you.”
John 20:19 “On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.'”
John 20:26 “Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.'”
What role has God given to those who have become new creations in Christ? (2 Corinthians 5:17-18)
God has reconciled us to Himself through Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation.
2 Corinthians 5:17-18 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”
What blessing is given to those who are peacemakers? (Matthew 5:9)
Peacemakers are blessed to be called sons of God.
Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”
How should we treat everyone if we want to see the Lord? (Hebrews 12:14)
If we want to see the Lord, we must pursue peace with everyone and holiness.
Hebrews 12:14 “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”
4) Patience
What is the perseverance of the saints? (Revelation 14:12, Matthew 10:22)
The perseverance of the saints is to keep God’s commandments and maintain faith in Jesus until the end.
Revelation 14:12 “Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.”
Matthew 10:22 “And you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.”
What did the Apostle Paul boast about concerning the Thessalonian church to other churches? (2 Thessalonians 1:4)
It was that the Thessalonian church endured with perseverance and faith through all the persecutions and afflictions they were suffering.
2 Thessalonians 1:4 “Therefore we ourselves boast about you in the churches of God for your steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions that you are enduring.”
Why must Christians go through trials of faith? (James 1:3-4)
The testing of faith produces perseverance, and when perseverance has fully developed, it makes us mature and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:3-4 “For you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Whose faith should we imitate? (James 5:10-11, Hebrews 6:12)
We should imitate the faith, suffering, and perseverance of the prophets.
James 5:10-11 “As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.”
Hebrews 6:12 “So that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.”
What is needed to receive what God has promised after doing His will? (Hebrews 10:36)
After doing God’s will, we need perseverance in order to receive what He has promised.
Hebrews 10:36 “For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.”
What does it mean when the seed is sown on good soil in Jesus’ parable? (Luke 8:15)
The seed sown on good soil represents those who hear the word with a noble and good heart, hold fast to it, and produce fruit with perseverance.
Luke 8:15 “As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.”
5) Kindness
What is God’s heart that leads people to repentance? (Romans 2:4)
God’s kindness leads us to repentance. He is the one who patiently accepts us and waits for us to return to Him.
Romans 2:4 “Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?”
Where must we remain to avoid falling? (Romans 11:22)
God shows severity to those who fall. Therefore, to avoid falling, we must remain in His kindness.
Romans 11:22 “Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off.”
How does God show the riches of His grace? (Ephesians 2:7)
God shows the riches of His grace by demonstrating His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus, to be revealed in the coming ages.
Ephesians 2:7 “so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.”
What did the Lord require of us, just as your Father is merciful? (Luke 6:36)
The Lord said, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”
Luke 6:36 “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.”
What was the answer of the lawyer and the command of Jesus after He shared the parable? (Luke 10:25-37)
The lawyer answered, “The one who showed mercy on him.” And Jesus said, “Go, and do likewise.”
Luke 10:34 He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ 36 Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” 37 He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.”
6) Goodness
What was the purpose of Christ giving Himself for us, redeeming us, and purifying us (Titus 2:14)?
He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people who are zealous for good works.
Titus 2:14 “who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.”
What does the term “light” mean when it says, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14-16)?
In the verse, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven,” it is clear that good works represent the light.
Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 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.”
How should we respond to the slander of unbelievers (1 Peter 2:12)?
We should keep our conduct honorable among the Gentiles, so that when they speak against us as evildoers, they may see our good deeds and glorify God on the day of Christ’s return.
1 Peter 2:12 “Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.”
What is the priority for doing good works (Galatians 6:10)?
We should do good to everyone as we have the opportunity, but especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
Galatians 6:10 “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
How does God regard the good deeds of the saints (Hebrews 6:10)?
God will not forget the work you have done in serving the saints, and that you continue to serve them.
Hebrews 6:10 “For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do.”
How should the church teach about good works (Titus 3:8, 14)?
The church should encourage believers to be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people.
Titus 3:8 “The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people.”
Titus 3:14 “And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful.”
7) Faithfulness
What do God’s promises become in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20)?
For all the promises of God find their Yes in Christ. That is why through Him we utter our Amen to God for His glory. In other words, God is faithful to fulfill His promises, which is the meaning of πιστός (faithful).
2 Corinthians 1:20 “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.”
What happened to the good promises that God spoke to His people (Joshua 21:45)?
Not one of the good promises that the Lord had spoken to the house of Israel failed; all came to pass.
Joshua 21:45 “Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass.”
How does God regard the trials we face (1 Corinthians 10:13)?
God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, He will also provide a way of escape so that you may be able to endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
What was the Lord’s evaluation of Moses, Joshua, and other faithful people who believed in God’s promises and followed His direction, and how did He evaluate those who did not (Hebrews 3:5)?
They were called faithful servants, while those who were not were described as being hard-hearted.
Hebrews 3:5 “Now Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant, to testify to the things that were to be spoken later.”
To whom does the Lord entrust a position of responsibility (Matthew 24:45, 1 Timothy 1:12)?
The Lord entrusts a position to a faithful and wise servant.
Matthew 24:45 “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time?”
1 Timothy 1:12 “I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service.”
8) Gentleness
What is the heart of our Lord Jesus like (Matthew 11:29)?
The heart of Jesus is gentle and humble.
Matthew 11:29 “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
What do the gentle receive from God (Matthew 5:5)?
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Matthew 5:5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
Who can restore someone who has sinned (Galatians 6:1)?
If anyone is caught in any transgression, those who are spiritual should restore them in a spirit of gentleness.
Galatians 6:1 “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.”
How should Christians show themselves to everyone in all things (Titus 3:2)?
They should speak evil of no one, avoid quarreling, be gentle, and show perfect courtesy toward all people.
Titus 3:2 “to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.”
9) Self-control
How does a person who competes to win conduct themselves (1 Corinthians 9:25)?
Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we do it to receive an imperishable one.
1 Corinthians 9:25 “Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.”
What did Paul preach to Felix that made him afraid (Acts 24:25)?
Paul reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the coming judgment, and Felix was afraid and replied, “Go away for now; when I have an opportunity, I will summon you.”
Acts 24:25 “And as he reasoned about righteousness and self-control and the coming judgment, Felix was alarmed and said, ‘Go away for the present. When I get an opportunity I will summon you.'”
What kind of spirit does God give us (2 Timothy 1:7)?
For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power, love, and self-control.
2 Timothy 1:7 “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
What is something we should not even look at because it brings disaster, sorrow, strife, and complaints (Proverbs 23:29-32, 31:4)?
It is wine. Proverbs says not to even look at wine when it is red, and that it is not fitting for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to crave strong drink.
Proverbs 23:29-32 “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who tarry long over wine; those who go to try mixed wine. Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder.”
Proverbs 31:4 “It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or for rulers to take strong drink.”
D. The Means of God’s Grace
1. Baptism (βάπτισμα)
1) Water Baptism
Why is water used in baptism? (1 Peter 3:21)
Water is a symbol that saves us through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 3:21 “Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
What is baptism? (1 Peter 3:20-21)
Baptism is the appeal to God for a good conscience. In other words, it is a pledge to live a pure life by offering one’s life to God with a sincere heart, committing to live with a clean conscience before Him.
1 Peter 3:20-21 “because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
With whom does baptism unite us? (Romans 6:3-5, Colossians 2:12)
Baptism is the act of being united with Jesus Christ, joining in His death and resurrection. In other words, since Jesus Christ died to sin and lives to God, those who are baptized must also die to sin and live to righteousness.
Romans 6:3-5 “Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.”
Colossians 2:12 “having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.”
When you are baptized, what are you clothed with? (Galatians 3:27)
I am a person who has been clothed with Christ.
Galatians 3:27 “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”
In whose name is baptism given? (Matthew 28:19, Acts 2:38, 8:16)
Baptism is given in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, or in the name of Jesus Christ.
Matthew 28:19 “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 2:38 “And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'”
Acts 8:16 “for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.”
What method should be used for baptism?
The Bible does not specify a particular method. However, since the baptism of the Holy Spirit is described as being poured out, we can infer that water baptism may also be done by pouring. In the Didache 7:1-4, written around A.D. 80-110, it states: “Concerning baptism, baptize in this way: after you have said all these things, baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit in living (running) water. If you do not have living water, baptize in other water. If you cannot use cold water, use warm water. If you have neither, pour water on the head three times in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Before the baptism, both the one baptizing and the one being baptized should fast, as well as others who are able. You shall instruct the one being baptized to fast for one or two days beforehand.”
What is the meaning of the word βαπτίζω as used in the Bible? (Hebrews 9:10, Revelation 19:13, John 13:26)
In these passages, βαπτίζω has been interpreted to mean washing, sprinkling, or dipping.
Hebrews 9:10 “For these deal only with food and drink and various washings-βαπτισμοῖς, regulations for the body imposed until the time of reformation”.
Revelation 19:13 “He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood-βάπτω, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God”.
“He is clothed in a garment sprinkled-βάπτω, with blood. His name is called The Word of God.”(WEB, ASV)
John 13:26 “Jesus answered, ‘It is he to whom I will give this morsel of bread when I have dipped-βάπτω it.’ So when he had dipped the morsel, he gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot”.
Who receives baptism? (Acts 2:38-41, 8:35-36, 11:18)
Baptism is received by those who repent of their sins and believe in Jesus as the Christ.
Acts 2:38-41: Peter calls the people to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins, and about 3,000 people accept and are baptized.
Acts 8:35-36: Philip preaches about Jesus, and the Ethiopian eunuch, after hearing the gospel, asks to be baptized as soon as they find water.
Acts 11:18: The early church acknowledges that God grants repentance that leads to life, including to the Gentiles, confirming their right to receive baptism.
Where did John the Baptist baptize, and how did he do it? (Mark 1:9-10, John 3:23)
John the Baptist baptized people by immersing them in the Jordan River or in places where there was plenty of water.
Mark 1:9-10 “Jesus came to be baptized by John in the Jordan River, and as He came up out of the water, the heavens were opened”.
John 3:23 “John was also baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because water was plentiful there”.
What was the method of baptism implied when our ancestors passed through the sea? (1 Corinthians 10:2)
This refers to the Israelites being identified with Moses and God through their miraculous journey through the Red Sea. While there was no physical immersion, the event symbolized a kind of baptism, representing their separation from their past life in Egypt and a new life under God’s guidance.
1 Corinthians 10:2 “And all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea.”
What might have been the method of baptism when 3,000 people were baptized? (Acts 2:41)
Since there was no large river or body of water in Jerusalem that could accommodate 3,000 people, it is plausible to think that the baptism might have been performed in a different manner, possibly through pouring or sprinkling rather than full immersion.
Acts 2:41 “So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.” Given the practical circumstances of baptizing such a large number of people in Jerusalem, it is possible that alternative methods were used to symbolize the baptism.
What might have been the method of baptism for Lydia and the jailer’s family, and how might they have handled the baptism of children, if present? (Acts 16:15, 16:31, 16:33)
In these passages, Lydia and her entire household were baptized, as well as the jailer and his family. Since it is not specified whether there were children in the household, it is uncertain how they would have been handled. However, if there were children, it is possible that they could have been baptized along with the rest of the family. The method of baptism could have been similar to the instructions in the Didache, where baptism is done by pouring water if full immersion is not possible.
Acts 16:15: “And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, ‘If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.’ And she prevailed upon us.”
Acts 16:31-33 “And they said, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.’ And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family.”
In situations where immersion might not have been feasible, it is likely that water was poured or sprinkled on the individuals, as suggested by early Christian practices like those found in the Didache.
Did Jesus ever baptize people with water? (John 4:1-2)
Jesus Himself did not baptize people with water, but His disciples did.
John 4:1-2 “Now when Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John (although Jesus himself did not baptize, but only his disciples),”
Where did the Apostle Paul place his emphasis: on baptizing or preaching the gospel? (1 Corinthians 1:14-17)
The Apostle Paul placed more emphasis on preaching the gospel rather than baptizing.
1 Corinthians 1:14-17 “I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, so that no one may say that you were baptized in my name. (I did baptize also the household of Stephanas. Beyond that, I do not know whether I baptized anyone else.) For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.”
2)Baptism with the Holy Spirit
Who baptizes with the Holy Spirit? (Mark 1:8, Luke 3:16, John 1:33)
Jesus Christ baptizes with the Holy Spirit, as He receives the promised Spirit from the Father and gives it to us.
Mark 1:8 “I have baptized you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
Luke 3:16 “John answered them all, saying, ‘I baptize you with water, but He who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.'”
John 1:33 “I myself did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.'”
How is the method of the baptism of the Holy Spirit described? (Acts 2:33, 10:45, Titus 3:6)
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is described as the Lord pouring out the Spirit.
Acts 2:33 “Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing.”
Acts 10:45 “And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles.”
Titus 3:6 “Whom He poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
What mission do we receive when baptized with the Holy Spirit? (Acts 1:8)
When baptized with the Holy Spirit, we are called to be witnesses of Jesus Christ and to fulfill the mission of evangelism.
Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
What is the evidence of being baptized with the Holy Spirit, as promised by Jesus? (Acts 1:5, 2:4, 2:11, 4:31)
The evidence of receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit is being filled with the Spirit, which includes speaking in other tongues as the Spirit enables, praising God, and boldly testifying to the Word of God.
Acts 1:5 “For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”
Acts 2:4 “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
Acts 2:11 “Both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.”
Acts 4:31 “And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.”
What kind of language were the tongues spoken at that time? (Acts 2:7-8)
The tongues spoken at that time were the languages of various nations used in the world, as evidenced by the people saying, “How is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language?”
Acts 2:7-8 “And they were amazed and astonished, saying, ‘Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language?'”
What must be done to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit? (Acts 1:4, 14; 8:15)
In the early church, to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, they devoted themselves to prayer together, waiting with one mind and heart.
Acts 1:4 “And while staying with them, He ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, He said, ‘you heard from Me.'”
Acts 1:14 “All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers.”
Acts 8:15 “Who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit.”
What did Peter witness that led him to say, “These people have received the Holy Spirit just as we have”? (Acts 10:44-46, 11:15)
Peter said this after seeing them speak in tongues and praise God.
Acts 10:44-46 “While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God.”
Acts 11:15 “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them just as on us at the beginning.”
What happened when Paul laid his hands on people and the Holy Spirit came upon them? (Acts 19:6)
When Paul laid his hands on them, they began to speak in tongues and prophesy.
Acts 19:6 “And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying.”
When people are baptized with the Holy Spirit, how are they united with Christ? (1 Corinthians 12:13)
They become one body with Christ.
1 Corinthians 12:13 “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.”
Note: Water baptism is a public declaration of one’s union with Christ, made before others and heard by God, whereas the baptism of the Holy Spirit is a grace from God, signifying the actual union with Christ, as declared by God Himself.
How diverse are the manifestations of the Holy Spirit? (1 Corinthians 12:7-13, Romans 12:6-8)
The manifestations of the Holy Spirit come through various gifts, such as the word of wisdom, the word of knowledge, faith, gifts of healing, working of miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, different kinds of tongues, interpretation of tongues, teaching, serving, exhortation, giving, mercy, and leadership.
1 Corinthians 12:7-11 “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.”
Romans 12:6-8 “Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.”
What is the purpose of the baptism of the Holy Spirit being manifested in these various gifts to each person? (1 Corinthians 12:11-12)
The baptism of the Holy Spirit brings believers into one body with Christ, and each person is given gifts according to their role as a member of the body, to build up the church of Christ.
1 Corinthians 12:11-12 “All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as He wills. For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.”
What makes spiritual gifts of no benefit to oneself? (1 Corinthians 13:1-3)
Without love, speaking in tongues, angelic speech, prophecy, understanding all mysteries and knowledge, having faith to move mountains, giving away all one’s possessions, and even sacrificing one’s body for martyrdom, are of no benefit to oneself.
1 Corinthians 13:1-3 “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.”
How is the speaking in tongues in 1 Corinthians different from that in Acts 2:4-11? (1 Corinthians 14:2, 15)
In Acts 2, the speaking in tongues refers to human languages directed toward people, used to testify about Jesus Christ and glorify God in a way that others can understand. In 1 Corinthians, the speaking in tongues is directed toward God, as a form of prayer or praise made in the spirit, which may not be understood by others without interpretation.
1 Corinthians 14:2 “For one who speaks in a tongue speaks not to men but to God; for no one understands him, but he utters mysteries in the Spirit.”
1 Corinthians 14:15 “What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also.”
What was poured when priests, kings, and prophets were appointed? (Exodus 40:13-15, 1 Kings 1:34, 1 Kings 19:16)
When priests, kings, and prophets were appointed, oil was poured on them.
Exodus 40:13-15 “And you shall put on Aaron the holy garments, and you shall anoint him and consecrate him, that he may serve me as priest… and their anointing shall admit them to a perpetual priesthood throughout their generations.”
1 Kings 1:34 “There Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet shall anoint him king over Israel.”
1 Kings 19:16 “And Jehu the son of Nimshi you shall anoint to be king over Israel, and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel-meholah you shall anoint to be prophet in your place.”
What does it mean when God anoints someone? (Luke 4:18, Acts 10:38, 1 John 2:27)
Anointing signifies the pouring out of the Holy Spirit.
Luke 4:18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed.”
Acts 10:38 “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.”
1 John 2:27 “But the anointing that you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as His anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in Him.”
What does it mean to be sealed? (2 Corinthians 1:21-22, Ephesians 1:13)
Being sealed means that we have been given the Holy Spirit as a guarantee or assurance of salvation.
2 Corinthians 1:21-22 “And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, and who has also put His seal on us and given us His Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.”
Ephesians 1:13 “In Him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in Him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.”
2. The Lord’s Supper
What did Jesus say when He broke the bread and gave it to His disciples the night before He was arrested? (Matthew 26:26)
Jesus said, “Take, eat; this is my body.”
Matthew 26:26 “Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, ‘Take, eat; this is my body.'”
What did Jesus say when He gave the cup of wine to His disciples? (Matthew 26:28)
Jesus said, “Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
Matthew 26:28 “For this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
What did the Lord say to remember when partaking in communion? (Luke 22:19, 1 Corinthians 11:24-25)
Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me” whenever you eat the bread and drink the cup.
Luke 22:19 “And He took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.'”
1 Corinthians 11:24-25 “And when He had given thanks, He broke it, and said, ‘This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way also He took the cup, after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.'”
What must we proclaim every time we partake in communion, and until when? (1 Corinthians 11:26)
Every time we partake in communion, we are to proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes again.
1 Corinthians 11:26 “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.”
What do we partake in when we receive communion? (1 Corinthians 10:16)
When we receive communion, we partake in the body and blood of Christ.
1 Corinthians 10:16 “The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ?”
What does it mean to eat and drink without discerning the Lord’s body? (1 Corinthians 11:27-29)
To eat and drink without discerning the Lord’s body means partaking of the bread and wine without understanding or acknowledging that Jesus died to cleanse us from our sins. If someone eats and drinks in this way, they are guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord, bringing judgment upon themselves. Additionally, knowing the significance of the Lord’s body but avoiding communion out of a sense of personal unworthiness also means rejecting the Lord’s mercy, which is an error in itself.
1 Corinthians 11:27-29 “Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself.”
3. Prayer
1) Thanksgiving prayer
What did Paul say about the reason for his identity? (1 Corinthians 15:10)
Paul said, “By the grace of God, I am what I am,” acknowledging that his identity and achievements were due to God’s grace. He also emphasized that all his efforts were not by his own doing but by the grace of God working with him.
1 Corinthians 15:10 “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me.”
Who is the source of everything we have? (1 Corinthians 4:7, Romans 11:36)
Everything we enjoy in life comes from the Lord and is through the Lord.
1 Corinthians 4:7 For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?Romans 11:36 “For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.”
Why do we have every reason to give thanks to God? (Psalm 106:1, 107:1, 118:1, 136:1)
God is good, and His steadfast love endures forever.
Psalm 106:1 Praise the Lord! Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!
How can we glorify God? (Psalm 50:23)
We can glorify God by offering a sacrifice of thanksgiving.
Psalm 50:23 The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me; to one who orders his way rightly I will show the salvation of God!
In whose name should we do everything, whether in word or deed, and what must we do? (1 Thessalonians 2:13, 5:18, Colossians 3:17)
We should do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Why must we devote ourselves to prayer and stay alert with thanksgiving? (Colossians 4:2, Luke 21:34-36)
Only those who devote themselves to prayer and remain alert with thanksgiving will be able to stand before the Son of Man.
Colossians 4:2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
Luke 21:34-36 “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
2) Prayer of repentance
What is repentance? (Ezekiel 18:30)
Turning in repentance means departing from all wickedness.
Ezekiel 18:30 “Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, declares the Lord God. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin.”
What must true repentance include? (Matthew 3:8)
It must bear fruit in keeping with repentance.
Matthew 3:8 “Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.”
What is the repentance of a believer? (Hebrews 6:1)
It is leaving behind the elementary teachings about Christ and repenting from dead works.
Hebrews 6:1 “Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God.”
What must an unbeliever repent of? (Mark 1:15)
They must repent of their unbelief in the gospel.
Mark 1:15 “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”
What gift does God give when we repent and receive forgiveness of sins? (Acts 2:38)
Anyone who repents and is baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 2:38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
What happens when we repent? (Acts 3:19)
When we repent and turn back, so that our sins may be forgiven, times of refreshing will come from the presence of the Lord.
Acts 3:19 “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.”
What happens if we do not repent and return to our first works after our faith has declined? (Revelation 2:5)
The Lord said He will remove your lampstand from its place.
Revelation 2:5 “Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.”
What is failing to repent likened to? (Romans 2:5)
Failing to repent is like storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed.
Romans 2:5 “But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed.”
3) Intercessory prayer
When we are discouraged and do not know what to pray for, how does the Holy Spirit help us? (Romans 8:26)
The Holy Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words, praying for us in accordance with God’s will.
Romans 8:26 “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”
What is Jesus always doing for us? (Hebrews 7:24-25, Romans 8:34)
Jesus is always interceding for those who come to God through Him, as He lives forever to intercede on their behalf.
Hebrews 7:24-25 “But because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood. Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.”
Romans 8:34 “Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.”
What was Paul’s request for intercessory prayer? (Colossians 4:3, 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2)
Paul requested prayer for God to open a door for the word so that he might proclaim the mystery of Christ, and for protection from wicked and evil men, so that the word of the Lord would be glorified.
Colossians 4:3 “At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison.”
2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 “Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you, and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith.”
What was the content of Paul’s earnest prayer for the churches? (1 Thessalonians 3:13, 5:23)
Paul prayed that when the Lord returns, the brothers and sisters would be found blameless in holiness before God the Father.
1 Thessalonians 3:13: “So that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints.”
1 Thessalonians 5:23: “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
What happens when we pray for the salvation of someone’s soul? (1 John 5:14-16)
God will give life to that person.
1 John 5:14-16 “And this is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of Him. If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life.”
What did the church do when Peter was imprisoned? (Acts 12:5-12)
The church earnestly prayed for Peter while he was in prison.
Acts 12:5 “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.”
Acts 12:12 “When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying.”
Who did the Lord’s servants always pray for? (Colossians 1:3, 9; 1 Thessalonians 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; Philemon 1:4)
They always prayed with thanksgiving, remembering and interceding for the believers, and they never ceased praying for them.
Colossians 1:3 “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.”
Colossians 1:9 “For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you.”
1 Thessalonians 1:2 “We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers.”
2 Thessalonians 1:11 “To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of His calling.”
Philemon 1:4 “I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers.”
What did the Lord’s servants ask from the church for themselves, and what should the church always do for the Lord’s servants? (Colossians 4:3, 1 Thessalonians 5:25, 2 Thessalonians 3:1, Hebrews 13:18)
The Lord’s servants asked the church for prayer on their behalf, and the church should always pray for the Lord’s servants.
Colossians 4:3 “At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ.”
1 Thessalonians 5:25 “Brothers, pray for us.”
2 Thessalonians 3:1 “Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you.”
Hebrews 13:18 “Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things.”
4) Praying in tongues
The disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit. What did they do as the Spirit enabled them? (Acts 2:1-4)
The disciples began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
Acts 2:1-4 “When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
How can the tongue be controlled if no one can tame it? (James 3:8, Acts 2:4)
The tongue cannot be controlled by the flesh; only the Holy Spirit can truly bring the tongue under control.
James 3:8 “But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”
Acts 2:4 “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
What was the evidence that the Holy Spirit came upon the baptized when Paul laid his hands on them? (Acts 19:4-7)
The evidence of the Holy Spirit coming upon them was that they began to speak in tongues and prophesy.
Acts 19:4-7 “And Paul said, ‘John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.’ On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying.”
What is the gift that builds up oneself and makes them blessed? (1 Corinthians 14:4)
The gift of tongues is said to build up oneself, as Paul explains that the one who speaks in tongues builds up themselves, while the one who prophesies builds up the church.
1 Corinthians 14:4 “The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church.”
What does it mean when my spirit prays? (1 Corinthians 14:14)
When I pray in tongues, it is my spirit that is praying. Therefore, those who belong to the Spirit pray both with their spirit and with their mind.
1 Corinthians 14:14 “For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful.”
Who does the Bible desire to pray in tongues? (1 Corinthians 14:5)
The Bible expresses the desire that everyone all pray in tongues.
1 Corinthians 14:5 “Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up.”
5) The order and content of prayer (Matthew 6:9-13)
What kind of prayer did Jesus tell us not to pray? (Matthew 6:31-32)
Jesus instructed us not to worry about tomorrow, saying, “Do not ask, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?'”
Matthew 6:31-32 “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.”
What should the children of God pray for, knowing that the Father knows their needs before they ask? (Matthew 6:33, Matthew 6:8-13)
When we seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness, all these things will be added to us.
Matthew 6:33 “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Matthew 6:8-13 “Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. Pray then like this: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.'”
How is the Father’s name hallowed? (John 17:4-6)
The Father’s name is hallowed when I accomplish the work He has given me to do.
John 17:4-6 “I glorified You on earth, having accomplished the work that You gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify Me in Your own presence with the glory that I had with You before the world existed. I have manifested Your name to the people whom You gave Me out of the world. Yours they were, and You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word.”
How does the kingdom of God come? (Matthew 12:28)
The kingdom of God comes when demons are cast out by the power of God’s Spirit, as this demonstrates the presence of God’s kingdom among us.
Matthew 12:28 “But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.”
What is the will of God as accomplished in heaven? (Hebrews 10:9-10, Matthew 26:39, 42)
The will of God as accomplished in heaven is that Jesus Christ bore the sins of all people and died on the cross, rising again on the third day.
Hebrews 10:9-10 “Then He said, ‘Behold, I have come to do Your will.’ He does away with the first in order to establish the second. And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”
Matthew 26:39 “And going a little farther He fell on His face and prayed, saying, ‘My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.'”
Matthew 26:42 “Again, for the second time, He went away and prayed, ‘My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, Your will be done.'”
What is God’s will in sending His only Son into the world? (John 6:38-40)
God the Father’s will is that everyone who sees and believes in His only Son, Jesus Christ, shall have eternal life.
John 6:38-40 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of Him who sent me. And this is the will of Him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that He has given me, but raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in Him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”
What is God’s will to be accomplished on earth? (1 Timothy 2:4, 1 John 5:12-16, Colossians 4:2-3)
God desires for all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. Therefore, when we pray, “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” we are praying for the gospel to be proclaimed, for the doors to open so that the mystery of Christ can be revealed, and for people to be saved.
1 Timothy 2:4 “Who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
1 John 5:12-16 “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life… if anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life.”
Colossians 4:2-3 “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ.”
What is the food of our Lord Jesus Christ? (John 4:34)
Jesus said that His food is to do the will of Him who sent Him and to accomplish His work.
John 4:34 “Jesus said to them, ‘My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work.'”
What food should we seek? (John 4:34, Matthew 4:4)
As members of Christ’s body, we should seek to do the will of the One who sent us and to accomplish His work, just as Jesus did. To fulfill this, we must daily seek every word that comes from the mouth of God.
John 4:34 “Jesus said to them, ‘My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work.'”
Matthew 4:4 “But He answered, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”‘”
Why must we forgive those who sin against us from the heart? (Matthew 6:14-15, 18:35, Mark 11:25, James 5:15-16, John 20:23)
Forgiving those who sin against us from the heart shows that we ourselves have been forgiven by God, and it is an acknowledgment to others of the forgiveness we have received from Him.
Matthew 6:14-15 “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
Matthew 18:35 “So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”
Mark 11:25 “And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”
James 5:15-16 “And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.”
John 20:23 “If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”
Why should we pray, “Lead us not into temptation”? (Matthew 26:41, Luke 22:40-46)
We should pray not to be led into temptation because if we do not stay watchful and pray, we may fall when the devil sifts us like wheat, as we are vulnerable to falling into temptation without God’s help.
Matthew 26:41 “Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Luke 22:40-46 “And when He came to the place, He said to them, ‘Pray that you may not enter into temptation.'”
Why should we pray, “Deliver us from evil”? (Luke 6:45)
We should pray to be delivered from evil because when we fall into evil, it causes evil to come out of our mouths, leading to actions that bring harm rather than salvation. In other words, praying for deliverance from evil ensures that our efforts for the salvation of souls are not in vain.
Luke 6:45 “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.”
To whom should the kingdom, power, and glory be given? (1 Corinthians 4:7, Romans 11:36)
All things come from the Father, and everything belongs to the Father, so the kingdom, power, and glory must be given to Him. If we fail to do so, Satan will attempt to claim the kingdom, power, and glory for himself.
1 Corinthians 4:7 “For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?”
Romans 11:36 “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen.”
6) Method
What should be the state of our heart when we pray? (Philippians 4:6-7, James 1:5-7, Matthew 21:22, Mark 11:24)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, present your requests to God with thanksgiving.
Philippians 4:6 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
James 1:5-6 “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.”
Matthew 21:22 “And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”
Mark 11:24 “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”
Who should we pray to, and in whose name should we pray? (John 14:13-14, 16:23-24)
Prayer is to be directed to the Father in the name of Jesus Christ.
John 14:13-14 “Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.”
John 16:23-24 “In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Until now you have
How should we ask God? (Luke 11:5-9, Jeremiah 33:3)
We should ask with an urgent heart, as if pleading earnestly, seeking, and knocking with all our heart.
Luke 11:9 “And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”
Jeremiah 33:3 “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”
What posture should be taken in earnest prayer? (Psalm 28:2, 1 Kings 8:54, Psalm 95:6, Luke 22:41, Acts 9:40, Acts 20:36, Acts 21:5)
Our forefathers in faith cried out to the Lord in prayer with their hands lifted, or knelt down, lifting their hands toward heaven, and at times they knelt in prayer.
Psalm 28:2 “Hear the voice of my pleas for mercy, when I cry to you for help, when I lift up my hands toward your most holy sanctuary.”
1 Kings 8:54 “Now as Solomon finished offering all this prayer and plea to the Lord, he arose from before the altar of the Lord, where he had knelt with hands outstretched toward heaven.”
Psalm 95:6 “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!”
Luke 22:41 “And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed.”
Acts 9:40 “But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, ‘Tabitha, arise.’ And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up.”
Acts 20:36 “And when he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all.”
Acts 21:5 “When our days there were ended, we departed and went on our journey, and they all, with wives and children, accompanied us until we were outside the city. And kneeling down on the beach, we prayed.”
What should we do when there is no response? (Luke 18:1-8)
We should not lose heart, but cry out day and night. This is the kind of faith God is looking for.
Luke 18:7-8 “And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”
What is the atmosphere of prayer that the Father listens to? (Matthew 6:6)
The prayer that the Father listens to is offered in a private room with the door closed, where God sees in secret.
Matthew 6:6 “But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
It is said, “Pray without ceasing.” How did the forefathers of faith practice this? (1 Thessalonians 5:17, Luke 18:1, Luke 21:36, Daniel 6:13, Acts 3:1, Acts 10:9, Acts 16:16)
The forefathers of faith set aside specific times and places to pray three times a day, remaining constantly vigilant in prayer.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 “Pray without ceasing.”
Luke 18:1 “And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.”
Luke 21:36 “But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Daniel 6:13 “Then they answered and said before the king, ‘Daniel, who is one of the exiles from Judah, pays no attention to you, O king, or the injunction you have signed, but makes his petition three times a day.'”
Acts 3:1 “Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour.”
Acts 10:9 “The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray.”
Acts 16:16 “As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling.”
What should a spiritual leader avoid? (1 Samuel 12:23)
A spiritual leader must never commit the sin of failing to pray for those entrusted to them by God, and they must teach them the good and right way.
1 Samuel 12:23 “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you, and I will instruct you in the good and the right way.”
7) Time
When does God help? (Psalm 46:5, Psalm 88:13)
God is said to help at daybreak, and my prayer will come before Him in the morning.
Psalm 46:5 “God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.”
Psalm 88:13 “But I, O Lord, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you.”
When is the time to meet God? (The Hebrew word שָׁחַר [shachar] can be translated as “diligently or earnestly” and “early morning.”) (Proverbs 8:17)
Those who seek God earnestly will find Him.
Proverbs 8:17 “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.”
When was the work of creation completed each of the six days? (Genesis 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31)
The work of creation was completed at dawn, as it is written, “There was evening and there was morning,” marking the completion of each day.
Genesis 1:5 “And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.”
Genesis 1:31 “And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.”
At what time of day did the Israelites safely cross the Red Sea? (Exodus 14:24, 27)
The time when the Israelites crossed the Red Sea on dry ground and the waters returned was at dawn.
Exodus 14:24 “And in the morning watch the Lord in the pillar of fire and of cloud looked down on the Egyptian forces and threw the Egyptian forces into a panic.”
Exodus 14:27 “So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to its normal course when the morning appeared. And as the Egyptians fled into it, the Lord threw the Egyptians into the midst of the sea.”
When did God provide manna to the Israelites? (Exodus 16:13-21)
God provided manna in the early morning, and the people gathered enough to eat every morning.
Exodus 16:13-14 “In the evening quail came up and covered the camp, and in the morning dew lay around the camp. And when the dew had gone up, there was on the face of the wilderness a fine, flake-like thing, fine as frost on the ground.”
Exodus 16:21 “Morning by morning they gathered it, each as much as he could eat; but when the sun grew hot, it melted.”
When did our Lord Jesus rise from the dead? (Matthew 28:1, Mark 16:2, Luke 24:1, John 20:1)
It was at dawn, before the sun had risen and while it was still dark.
Matthew 28:1 “Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.”
Mark 16:2 “And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb.”
Luke 24:1 “But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared.”
John 20:1 “Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb.”
When did the apostles teach in the temple? (Acts 5:21)
The apostles entered the temple at dawn and taught the people the word of life.
Acts 5:21 “And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach.”
What did Jesus call Himself? (Revelation 22:16)
Jesus called Himself the bright morning star.
Revelation 22:16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.”
8) Results
What has God promised to give to those who ask? (Matthew 7:9-11; Luke 11:13; John 14:13-17)
God has promised to give the Holy Spirit to those who ask.
Matthew 7:11 “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!”
Luke 11:13 “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
John 14:16-17 “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”
How much fruit did the early church, with 120 people praying earnestly, bear by preaching the gospel? (Acts 2:38-41)
They bore the fruit of three thousand people repenting and being baptized.
Acts 2:41 “So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.”
How were the baptized people cared for? (Acts 2:42)
The believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, the breaking of bread, and to prayer.
Acts 2:42 “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”
What kind of prayer is not answered? (James 4:2-3)
You do not receive because you did not ask, and when you ask, you do not receive because you ask with wrong motives, intending to spend it on your passions.
James 4:2-3 “You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.”
When does the Lord not hear my prayer? (Psalm 66:18)
If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.
Psalm 66:18 “If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.”
4. Laying on of hands
What did Moses do before the assembly when appointing Joshua as his successor? (Numbers 27:18-23)
Moses, following the Lord’s command, laid his hands on Joshua before the assembly and commissioned him.
Numbers 27:23 “He laid his hands on him and commissioned him as the Lord directed through Moses.”
What did the early church do when appointing ministers? (Acts 6:6, 13:3, 14:23)
When appointing ministers, they prayed and laid hands on them, or after fasting and praying, entrusted them with their duties. When sending out missionaries, they fasted, prayed, and laid hands on them.
Acts 6:6 “These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.”
Acts 13:3 “Then after fasting and praying, they laid their hands on them and sent them off.”
Acts 14:23 “And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting, they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.”
What was received when laying on of hands? (Deuteronomy 34:9, Acts 8:17-18, 19:6, 1 Timothy 4:14)
When the servants of the Lord laid hands, the Holy Spirit was received, and gifts such as wisdom or prophecy were imparted to them.
Deuteronomy 34:9 “And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him.”
Acts 8:17 “Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 19:6 “And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying.”
1 Timothy 4:14 “Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you.”
What was done to receive or rekindle God’s gift? (1 Timothy 4:14, 2 Timothy 1:6)
When the servants of the Lord laid hands, gifts were imparted, and through the laying on of hands, God’s gift was rekindled like a flame.
1 Timothy 4:14 “Do not neglect the gift you have, which was given you by prophecy when the council of elders laid their hands on you.”
2 Timothy 1:6 “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.”
What was done to heal the sick? (Mark 6:5, 16:18, Luke 4:40, 13:11-13, Acts 9:12, 17, Acts 28:8)
Our Lord Jesus and His servants prayed and laid hands on the sick to heal them.
Mark 6:5 “And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them.”
Mark 16:18 “They will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
Luke 4:40 “Now when the sun was setting, all those who had any who were sick with various diseases brought them to him, and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them.”
Luke 13:13 “And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God.”
Acts 9:17 “So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, ‘Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.'”
Acts 28:8 “It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with fever and dysentery. And Paul visited him and prayed, and putting his hands on him, healed him.”
What did the servants of the Lord do when blessing others? (Matthew 19:14-15, Mark 10:16, Genesis 48:14-16, Leviticus 9:22)
The servants of the Lord blessed by laying hands or lifting their hands in blessing.
Matthew 19:15 “And he laid his hands on them and went away.”
Mark 10:16 “And he took them in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.”
Genesis 48:14 “And Israel stretched out his right hand and laid it on the head of Ephraim, who was the younger, and his left hand on the head of Manasseh, crossing his hands, for Manasseh was the firstborn.”
Leviticus 9:22 “Then Aaron lifted up his hands toward the people and blessed them, and he came down from offering the sin offering and the burnt offering and the peace offerings.”
What was done in the Old Testament to transfer one’s sins? (Leviticus 16:21)
Aaron laid both of his hands on the head of the live goat, confessed over it all the iniquities and transgressions of the Israelites, placing their sins on the goat’s head, and sent it away into the wilderness.
Leviticus 16:21 “And Aaron shall lay both his hands on the head of the live goat, and confess over it all the iniquities of the people of Israel, and all their transgressions, all their sins. And he shall put them on the head of the goat and send it away into the wilderness by the hand of a man who is in readiness.”
5. Fasting
What did God say to do in order to return to Him with all your heart? (Joel 2:12)
He said, “Even now, return to me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.”
Joel 2:12 “Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.”
When returning to God with fasting, weeping, and mourning, what did He say to rend? (Joel 2:12-13)
He said to “rend your hearts” and return to God. This also signifies receiving the circumcision of the heart.
Joel 2:13 “And rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.”
What grace is promised when a fast is declared and a sacred assembly is proclaimed in repentance? (Joel 2:15, 28-32)
God promised to pour out His Spirit on all people.
Joel 2:28 “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions.”
Joel 2:29 “Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit.”
How many days did the Apostle Paul fast as a sign of his conversion after encountering Jesus? (Acts 9:9)
Paul fasted for three days without eating or drinking.
Acts 9:9 “And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.”
What did Samuel require when the people wanted to repent and return to God? (1 Samuel 7:5-6)
Samuel told the people, “If you are returning to the Lord with all your heart, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtaroth from among you and direct your heart to the Lord and serve Him only.” The people gathered at Mizpah, fasted all day, and repented, saying, “We have sinned against the Lord.”
1 Samuel 7:6 “So they gathered at Mizpah and drew water and poured it out before the Lord and fasted on that day and said there, ‘We have sinned against the Lord.'”
Why did Ezra proclaim a fast? (Ezra 8:21)
Ezra proclaimed a fast to humble themselves before God and to seek a safe journey for all the people and their possessions.
Ezra 8:21 “Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from him a safe journey for ourselves, our children, and all our goods.”
What is the content of the fast that pleases God? (Isaiah 58:6-7)
The kind of fasting that pleases God is “to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke. Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the homeless poor into your house, to clothe the naked when you see them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?”
What happens when we fast in a way that pleases God? (Isaiah 58:8-9, Psalm 35:13)
When we fast in a way that pleases God, “your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will spring up quickly. Your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.'”
Isaiah 58:8-9 “Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, ‘Here I am.'”
Psalm 35:13 “But I, when they were sick—I wore sackcloth; I afflicted myself with fasting; I prayed with head bowed on my chest.”
How many days did Jesus fast? (Matthew 4:2)
Jesus fasted for forty days and forty nights.
Matthew 4:2 “And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.”
What did Jesus say is necessary for a demon to be cast out? (Matthew 17:21)
The Bible says that this kind of demon does not go out except by prayer and fasting.
Matthew 17:21 “But this kind never comes out except by prayer and fasting.”
What kind of fasting does God accept? (Matthew 6:16-18)
When fasting, anoint your head and wash your face so that your fasting may not be obvious to others, but only to your Father.
Matthew 6:17-18 “But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
6. The Bible
What is the Bible made of, and what is it useful for? (2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Peter 1:20-21)
All Scripture is spoken by men who were moved by the Holy Spirit, having received it from God. It is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 “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 Peter 1:21 “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
Who does the Bible testify about? (John 5:39, Luke 24:27, 44)
Jesus said, “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me.”
John 5:39 “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me.”
Luke 24:27 “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.”
Luke 24:44 “Then he said to them, ‘These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.'”
What revives the soul, makes the simple wise, brings joy to the heart, and enlightens the eyes? Psalm 19:7-8.
The Bible says, “The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether.”
What is God’s word like to my feet and path? (Psalm 119:105)
God’s word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
What power does God’s word have? (Hebrews 4:12)
God’s word is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and it has the power to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
When reading the Bible and not understanding it, whom has God prepared for interpretation? (Acts 8:30-31)
Just as the Holy Spirit sent Philip to explain the meaning of Isaiah’s words to the Ethiopian eunuch who was struggling to understand, God has prepared His servants for interpreting the Scriptures.
Acts 8:30-31 “So Philip ran to him and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet and asked, ‘Do you understand what you are reading?’ And he said, ‘How can I, unless someone guides me?'”
What happens if one tries to interpret difficult parts of the Bible by force? (2 Peter 3:16)
They will bring about their own destruction.
2 Peter 3:16 “There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures.”
What must we eat to live? (John 4:34, Matthew 4:4)
To live, we must feed on the word that comes from the mouth of God, in order to do the will of the Lord and complete His work.
John 4:34 “Jesus said to them, ‘My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.'”
Matthew 4:4 “But he answered, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”‘”
What happens to the word that goes out from God’s mouth? (Isaiah 55:11)
The word that goes out from God’s mouth will not return to Him empty but will accomplish God’s will and succeed in the purpose for which He sent it.
Isaiah 55:11 “So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”
How did the Bereans study the Scriptures? (Acts 17:11-12)
The Bereans received the word with eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.
Acts 17:11 “Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.”
When should we read and study the Scriptures for the growth of our faith? (Acts 17:11-12)
To grow in our faith, we should study the Scriptures daily, just as the Bereans did.
How should we listen to the words of the Lord’s servants for transformation to occur? (1 Thessalonians 2:13)
When receiving God’s word from the Lord’s servants, we must not accept it as the word of men, but as the word of God. This is how the word works powerfully in those who believe.
1 Thessalonians 2:13 “And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.”
Who is blessed by the Bible? (Revelation 1:3)
Those who read, hear, and keep what is written in the Scriptures are blessed.
Revelation 1:3 “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near.”
Why did Jesus speak about the mysteries of the Kingdom of God in parables? (Matthew 13:13-16)
It is because, though they see, they do not see; though they hear, they do not hear or understand. Parables are a way to express spiritual truths in a manner understandable in this world. Therefore, through parables, we must, by faith, understand the realities they point to.
Matthew 13:13 “This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand.”
7. Praise
What is God’s purpose in creating His people? (Isaiah 43:21-22)
God created His people so that they might declare His praise.
Isaiah 43:21 “The people whom I formed for myself that they might declare my praise.”
What is God’s purpose in granting us forgiveness of sins through the blood of Jesus Christ and making us His children? (Ephesians 1:3-14)
It is so that we might praise the glory of His grace, which He has freely given to us.
Ephesians 1:6 “to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.”
What is the secret to not being put to shame in this world? (Joel 2:26)
The Bible says, “You shall praise the name of the Lord your God, who has dealt wondrously with you. And my people shall never again be put to shame.”
What did people of faith do when their hearts were discouraged and anxious? (Psalm 42:5)
They placed their hope in God and continued to praise Him for His help.
Psalm 42:5 “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation.”
What should we do when many twist our words and attack us? (Psalm 56:4, Psalm 40:3)
We should trust in God and praise His word, as He has put a new song of praise to our God in our mouth.
Psalm 56:4 “In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?”
Psalm 40:3 “He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the Lord.”
What happened when Paul and Silas prayed and sang hymns in prison? (Acts 16:25)
Suddenly, a great earthquake occurred, the prison doors were opened, and everyone’s chains were loosed.
Acts 16:26 “And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were unfastened.”
How did King Jehoshaphat defeat the Aramean army? (2 Chronicles 20:15-21)
Jehoshaphat appointed singers dressed in holy attire to go before the army and sing praises. As they praised, the Lord set ambushes against the enemies, leading to their destruction and securing victory.
2 Chronicles 20:21 “And when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed those who were to sing to the Lord and praise him in holy attire, as they went before the army, and say, ‘Give thanks to the Lord, for his steadfast love endures forever.'”
What left Saul when David praised God with an instrument? (1 Samuel 16:23)
When David played the lyre, Saul was refreshed and relieved, and the evil spirit departed from him.
1 Samuel 16:23 “And whenever the harmful spirit from God was upon Saul, David took the lyre and played it with his hand. So Saul was refreshed and was well, and the harmful spirit departed from him.”
What instruments were used to praise God in the Psalms? (Psalm 47:1, 149:3, 150:3-5, 134:2, 2 Chronicles 5:13)
They praised God by clapping hands, raising joyful shouts, playing the tambourine and dancing, lifting hands, and using instruments like trumpets, harps, lyres, strings, flutes, and cymbals.
Psalm 47:1 “Clap your hands, all peoples! Shout to God with loud songs of joy!”
Psalm 149:3 “Let them praise his name with dancing, making melody to him with tambourine and lyre!”
Psalm 150:3-5 “Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp! Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe! Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals!”
Psalm 134:2 “Lift up your hands to the holy place and bless the Lord!”
2 Chronicles 5:13 “And it was the duty of the trumpeters and singers to make themselves heard in unison in praise and thanksgiving to the Lord, and when the song was raised, with trumpets and cymbals and other musical instruments, in praise to the Lord…”
When should we praise God? (Psalm 68:19, 145:2)
We should praise God daily, as He bears our burdens and is our salvation.
Psalm 68:19 “Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation.”
Psalm 145:2 “Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever.”
How many times a day did the forefathers of faith praise God? (Psalm 119:164)
Because of God’s righteous laws, they praised Him seven times a day.
Psalm 119:164 “Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous rules.”
8. Worship
How should we worship God the Father, who is Spirit? (John 4:23-24)
True worshipers must worship the Father in spirit and truth.
John 4:23-24 “But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”
What is the spiritual worship that God accepts, and how should we offer our bodies? (Romans 12:1)
The spiritual worship we offer is presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God..
Romans 12:1 “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.”
What was the altar where God accepted the Lamb as the atoning sacrifice? (John 1:29, Revelation 5:12)
When the atoning lamb was offered as a burnt offering, it was placed on the altar. Likewise, Jesus, the Lamb of God, was lifted up on the cross.
John 1:29 “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
Revelation 5:12 “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!”
What is the cross on which Jesus was crucified, and what happens to anything that touches it, and why? (Leviticus 8:15, Exodus 29:37)
The cross of Jesus is the altar of burnt offering. In the Old Testament, when blood was applied to the four horns of the altar, it was made clean. Similarly, Jesus was nailed to the cross at His hands and feet, and a crown of thorns was placed on His head, symbolically marking the four corners of the altar with His holy blood. Therefore, the cross of Jesus Christ became holy. Anything that touches a holy altar becomes holy as well.
Exodus 29:37 “Seven days you shall make atonement for the altar and consecrate it, and the altar shall be most holy. Whatever touches the altar shall become holy.”
Leviticus 8:15 “And he slaughtered it, took the blood, and with his finger put it on the horns of the altar on all sides, purifying the altar.”
What is the altar on which we should offer ourselves as living sacrifices, pleasing to God? (Galatians 2:20)
We must be crucified with Christ on the altar of the cross. By being crucified there, it is no longer we who live, but Christ who lives in us, as we confess that we have died on the cross.
Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Why must we offer ourselves to the cross of Jesus Christ? (Romans 6:6)
Our old self must be crucified with Jesus so that the body of sin may be brought to nothing, and we will no longer be slaves to sin.
Romans 6:6 “We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.”
What must be included for worship to be acceptable to God? (Isaiah 29:13, Matthew 15:6-9)
Worship becomes vain when people teach human commandments as doctrines. Therefore, for worship to be acceptable to God, it must be based solely on God’s commandments.
Matthew 15:9 “In vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.”
Isaiah 29:13 “And the Lord said: ‘Because this people draw near with their mouth and honor me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me, and their fear of me is a commandment taught by men.'”
What should we wear when worshiping? (Psalm 29:2, Revelation 19:8, Matthew 22:11-12)
We should worship clothed in holy and pure fine linen, which represents the righteous deeds of the saints.
Revelation 19:8 “It was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure—for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints.”
Psalm 29:2 “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.”
Matthew 22:12 “And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless.”
How can stained clothes be washed in the spiritual realm? (Revelation 7:14)
They can be made white only by washing them in the blood of the Lamb.
Revelation 7:14 “They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”
How did the forefathers of faith worship in the Bible? (2 Chronicles 29:30, Job 1:20, Matthew 2:11)
The forefathers of faith worshiped by bowing down or falling to the ground in reverence.
2 Chronicles 29:30 “And they bowed their heads and worshiped.”
Job 1:20 “Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head and fell on the ground and worshiped.”
Matthew 2:11 “And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him.”
How should everything offered in worship to God be? (Psalm 96:9)
Everything offered in worship to God must be in the beauty of holiness.
Psalm 96:9 “Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness; tremble before him, all the earth.”
9. Offering
What did God say not to show when coming before Him? (Exodus 23:15)
He said, “Do not appear before Me empty-handed.”
Exodus 23:15 “None shall appear before me empty-handed.”
What should we bring when worshiping God? (Psalm 96:8-9, Matthew 2:11)
When worshiping God, we should bring an offering and come into His presence.
Psalm 96:8 “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering, and come into his courts!”
Matthew 2:11 “And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.”
What must be included when giving your heart to God? Matthew 6:21.
Since “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also,” the expression of the heart includes your treasure.
Matthew 6:21 “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
What did Jesus say we cannot serve alongside God? (Matthew 6:24)
Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”
Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters. For either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”
Whose are silver and gold? (Haggai 2:8, 1 Corinthians 4:7, 1 Peter 4:10)
Silver and gold belong to God, and we are merely stewards of His grace, entrusted to fulfill our responsibilities.
Haggai 2:8 “The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, declares the Lord of hosts.”
1 Corinthians 4:7 “What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?”
1 Peter 4:10 “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”
Whose is the tithe of the land? (Leviticus 27:30)
The tithe of the land, whether of the grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, is the Lord’s; it is holy to the Lord.
Leviticus 27:30 “Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord’s; it is holy to the Lord.”
What is the true sign of repentance and returning to God? (Malachi 3:7-8)
The true sign of returning to God is faithful tithing, because failing to do so is considered robbing God.
Malachi 3:7-8 “Return to me, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts. But you say, ‘How shall we return?’ Will man rob God? Yet you are robbing me. But you say, ‘How have we robbed you?’ In your tithes and contributions.”
What is the secret to God pouring out blessings until there is no more room? (Malachi 3:10-12)
The secret is bringing the full tithe into the storehouse, and God promises to open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings until there is no more room to contain them.
Malachi 3:10 “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
Thoughts on full tithe (gross or net): The concept of an “on-time and full tithe” typically refers to offering a tenth of your gross income (before taxes and deductions), as it reflects giving God the first and best portion of your earnings, demonstrating trust and gratitude for His provision. However, this practice can vary among believers depending on personal convictions and guidance from church leadership.
Who does the firstborn belong to? (Exodus 13:2, 23:19)
The firstborn of both humans and animals, as well as the firstfruits of grain and produce, belong to the Lord and must be offered to Him.
Exodus 13:2 “Consecrate to me all the firstborn. Whatever is the first to open the womb among the people of Israel, both of man and of beast, is mine.”
Exodus 23:19 “The best of the firstfruits of your ground you shall bring into the house of the Lord your God.”
How does God love those who give offerings? (2 Corinthians 9:5-7)
God loves those who give cheerfully, as they have prepared in their hearts, not reluctantly or under compulsion, but with joy.
2 Corinthians 9:7 “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
How did the early church believers’ attitude toward possessions change when they received grace? (Acts 4:32-37)
No one claimed any of their possessions as their own; instead, they shared everything they had.
Acts 4:32 “Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common.”
What kind of offering did the Macedonian church give amid severe trials and extreme poverty? (2 Corinthians 8:2-3)
They gave abundantly of their own free will, not only according to their ability but even beyond their means.
2 Corinthians 8:2-3 “For in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord.”
10. Evangelism
What is the Lord’s command to those who believe in Jesus as Lord? (Mark 16:15)
He commanded, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to all creation.”
Mark 16:15 “And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'”
What does it mean to confess with the mouth, as in “one believes with the heart and is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and is saved”? (Romans 10:8-15)
It means to proclaim to others that Jesus is Lord and that God raised Him from the dead. Therefore, sharing the gospel by confessing Jesus as Lord with our mouth is an essential condition for salvation.
Romans 10:9 “Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
What blessing comes to those who acknowledge Jesus before others? (Matthew 10:32-33)
Anyone who acknowledges Jesus before others, Jesus said He will also acknowledge them before His Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 10:32 “So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, 33 but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.”
What should we feel if we do not proclaim the gospel? (Jeremiah 20:9)
If I say I will not mention the Lord or speak anymore in His name, my heart should feel like a fire shut up in my bones, and I should become weary of holding it in, unable to endure it.
Jeremiah 20:9 “If I say, ‘I will not mention him, or speak any more in his name,’ there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot.”
With what attitude did Paul proclaim the gospel even to Rome? (Romans 1:14-15)
Paul proclaimed the gospel with a sense of being a debtor to all people.
Romans 1:14 “I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. 15 So I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.”
What attitude should we have toward the gospel in order to proclaim it? (Romans 1:16)
We should not be ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.
Romans 1:16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”
What is the difference between a grain of wheat that falls to the ground and dies versus one that does not? (John 12:24)
Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains a single grain, but if it dies, it bears much fruit.
John 12:24 “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.”
What are the outcomes of loving one’s life versus hating it in this world? (John 12:25)
Those who love their life will lose it, while those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Therefore, proclaiming the gospel becomes a blessing that preserves one’s life for eternity.
John 12:25 “Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.”
Therefore, how should we regard our life for the sake of proclaiming the gospel? (Acts 20:24)
We should not consider our life of any value, but instead, be willing to lay it down in order to finish the course and the ministry received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
Acts 20:24 “But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”
How should we approach those who hear the gospel when we proclaim it? (2 Corinthians 4:5)
We should approach them with the attitude of a servant, because we do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as their servants for Jesus’ sake.
2 Corinthians 4:5 “For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.”
What did the master command the servant to do when he prepared a banquet? (Luke 14:23)
The master told the servant to go out to the roads and hedges and compel people to come in, so that his house may be filled.
Luke 14:23 “And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled.’”
What does God rejoice over more than ninety-nine righteous persons? (Luke 15:7)
God rejoices more over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
Luke 15:7 “Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.”
How did the Lord speak about the value of a person’s soul? (Matthew 16:26)
The Lord evaluated that each person’s soul holds a value that cannot be exchanged for the whole world. Therefore, proclaiming the gospel is more valuable than giving someone the entire world as a gift.
Matthew 16:26 “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?”
What befalls us if we do not proclaim the valuable gospel? (1 Corinthians 9:16, Ezekiel 3:17-21)
If we do not proclaim the gospel, woe comes upon us, for God said He will demand the blood of others at our hands.
1 Corinthians 9:16 “For if I preach the gospel, that gives me no ground for boasting. For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!”
Ezekiel 3:18 “If I say to the wicked, ‘You shall surely die,’ and you give him no warning, nor speak to warn the wicked from his wicked way, in order to save his life, that wicked person shall die for his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand.”
What blessing is given to those who lead many to righteousness? (Daniel 12:3)
Those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever and ever.
Daniel 12:3 “And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.”
When should we proclaim the gospel of salvation? (1 Chronicles 16:23, Psalm 96:2)
We should sing to the Lord, bless His name, and proclaim His salvation from day to day.
1 Chronicles 16:23 “Sing to the Lord, all the earth! Tell of his salvation from day to day.”
Psalm 96:2 “Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day.”
11. Charity
What did the Lord say to do to cleanse the greed and wickedness within us? (Luke 11:39-41)
He said to give as charity those things that are within, and everything will be clean for you.
Luke 11:41 “But give as alms those things that are within, and behold, everything is clean for you.”
How does God’s love abide in us when a brother is in need? (1 John 3:17)
When we see a brother in need and have the means to help with the world’s goods, and we are willing to assist, God’s love abides in us.
1 John 3:17 “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?”
What should we do for those in distress? (1 Timothy 5:10)
We ought to provide relief for those in distress.
1 Timothy 5:10 “And having a reputation for good works: if she has brought up children, has shown hospitality, has washed the feet of the saints, has cared for the afflicted, and has devoted herself to every good work.”
How can we live a life of complete faith? (Matthew 19:21)
Jesus said, if you would be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.
Matthew 19:21 “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.”
What is the secret to storing up treasures in heaven? (Luke 12:33)
Sell your possessions and give to the needy. Make for yourselves purses that do not wear out, a treasure in heaven that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.
Luke 12:33 “Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.”
How should we give to the needy? (Matthew 6:3-4)
When you give to the needy, do not let your right hand know what your left hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you.
Matthew 6:3-4 “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
E. Use of God’s Law
1. The law perfected and established by Christ
What is the essence of the Law and the Prophets? (Matthew 22:37-40)
The essence of the Law and the Prophets is, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-40)
Matthew 22:37-40 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.”
How did God show His love for us? (Romans 5:8)
God showed His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8 “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Why did Jesus come in relation to the Law? (Matthew 5:17)
Jesus did not come to abolish the Law or the Prophets, but to fulfill them.
Matthew 5:17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
How should we regard the Law through faith? (Romans 3:31)
We do not nullify the Law by faith; rather, we uphold the Law.
Romans 3:31 “Do we then overthrow the law by this faith? By no means! On the contrary, we uphold the law.”
How can we fulfill the Law? (Romans 13:8-10, Galatians 5:14)
Fulfilling the Law is by loving others, for love is the fulfillment of the Law.
Romans 13:10 “Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.”
Galatians 5:14 “For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'”
What is the Law that Jesus commanded? (John 13:34)
Jesus commanded, “Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.”
John 13:34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.”
How will people know that we are disciples of Jesus? (John 13:35)
People will know that we are disciples of Jesus if we love one another.
John 13:35 “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
What does it mean to love the Lord? (John 14:15, 23)
Loving the Lord means keeping His word and commandments.
John 14:15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”
John 14:23 “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.”
When will the Lord make His home with us? (John 14:23)
The Lord will make His home with us when we keep His commandment to love one another.
John 14:23 “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.”
What does it mean if someone claims to love the Lord but hates their brother? (1 John 4:20)
If anyone claims to love God but hates their brother, they are a liar. For anyone who does not love their brother, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.
1 John 4:20 “If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.”
How can we show that God’s love is in us, and what does it mean to love not just in words but in action and truth? (1 John 3:16-18)
We demonstrate that God’s love is in us by helping our brothers in need with the world’s goods. If we see a brother in need and close our heart, God’s love cannot dwell in us. Therefore, to love not only in words but in action and truth means using our material resources to help those in need.
1 John 3:17-18 “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.”
2. The law abolished by Christ
What happened to the ceremonial and purification laws of Moses when Jesus came? (Hebrews 7:18, 9:10)
These laws, concerning food, drink, and various washings, were merely fleshly ordinances imposed until the time of reformation. With the coming of Jesus Christ, they were set aside as weak and useless, having been fulfilled in Him.
Hebrews 7:18 “For on the one hand, a former commandment is set aside because of its weakness and uselessness.”
Hebrews 9:10 “But deal only with food and drink and various washings, regulations for the body imposed until the time of reformation.”
What is the law that serves as a type, shadow, and illustration of Jesus Christ? (Hebrews 9:9-15, 24-26; 10:1, 4, 9-10)
The law, which is a shadow and illustration of Christ, pointed to the true High Priest, Jesus Christ, who, by His own blood, removes the sins of those who come to Him in faith. Therefore, Christ did not enter a sanctuary made by human hands, which is only a copy of the true one. The blood of bulls and goats was only a shadow and could not take away sins, for it is not the reality but a symbol. Only Christ’s sacrifice, as the true offering, could accomplish the removal of sins.
Hebrews 9:24 “For Christ has entered, not into holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true things, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf.”
Hebrews 10:1 “For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities, it can never, by the same sacrifices that are continually offered every year, make perfect those who draw near.”
Hebrews 10:4 “For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.”
Hebrews 10:9-10 “He does away with the first in order to establish the second. And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”
What is the Law that Christ abolished in Ephesians 2:11-19?
We were once foreigners to the covenants of promise in comparison to the Jews. The law, which divided Jews and Gentiles, acted as a barrier between them. Jesus Christ, through His flesh, broke down this dividing wall and abolished the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, so that we may now have access to the Father in one Spirit.
Ephesians 2:14-15 “For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace.”
What are we in Christ without distinction of Jew, Greek, slave, free, male, or female? (Galatians 3:28)
In Christ Jesus, we are all one, whether Jew or Greek, slave or free, male or female. Therefore, in Christ, there is no racial or gender discrimination.
Galatians 3:28 “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
Is there any rank or hierarchy in Christ? (Luke 13:30)
There is no rank or hierarchy in Christ, as it is said, “Some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”
Luke 13:30 “And behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”
3. The functions of the law
What does the Law make us aware of? (Romans 3:20)
No one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the Law; rather, the Law makes us aware of sin.
Romans 3:20 “For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin.”
What is the guardian that leads us to Christ? (Galatians 3:24)
It is the Law. Before faith came, we were held captive under the Law, locked up until the coming faith was revealed. The Law became our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we might be justified by faith.
Galatians 3:24 “So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith.”
How does the Apostle Paul describe himself in relation to the Law? (1 Corinthians 9:19-23)
Paul said that to those under the Law, he became like one under the Law, though he himself is not under the Law, in order to win those under the Law. To those without the Law, he became like one without the Law, though he is not without God’s Law but under Christ’s Law, in order to win those without the Law.
1 Corinthians 9:21 “To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law.”
How should the church deal with a so-called brother who is wicked? (1 Corinthians 5:11-13)
If someone who claims to be a brother is sexually immoral, greedy, an idolater, a reviler, a drunkard, or a swindler, do not associate with them. Paul instructs the church to expel such an evil person from among them.
1 Corinthians 5:11 “But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one.”
1 Corinthians 5:13 “Purge the evil person from among you.”
What does the Bible say about the fate of those who engage in sexual immorality, idolatry, adultery, homosexuality, theft, greed, drunkenness, slander, robbery, murder, sorcery, and lying? (1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Galatians 5:19-21, Revelation 21:8, Revelation 22:15)
The Bible states that such people will not inherit the kingdom of God.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
Galatians 5:19-21 “Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Revelation 21:8 “But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”
Revelation 22:15 “Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.”
What kind of person is someone who claims to know Jesus Christ but does not keep His commandments? (1 John 2:4)
The one who claims to know Jesus Christ but does not keep His commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in them.
1 John 2:4 “Whoever says ‘I know him’ but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”
What did Jesus say about the Ten Commandments? (Matthew 19:17-19)
Jesus said that if we want to enter into life, we should keep the commandments. He specifically mentioned some of the Ten Commandments: “You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not bear false witness, honor your father and mother, and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Matthew 19:17-19 “If you would enter life, keep the commandments. […] You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother, and You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
4. The Ten Commandments
1) You shall have no other gods before Me.
Can faith in the God of Judaism or Islam lead to heaven?
Heaven is a place where one must receive forgiveness of sins in order to enter. Therefore, the gospel of atonement through the blood of the Lamb (Jesus Christ) must be proclaimed to them as well. Without the forgiveness provided by Christ’s sacrifice, entry into heaven is not possible according to the Christian faith.
Why can we only know God and receive salvation through Jesus? (Acts 4:12, John 14:6-7)
Jesus said that if you have seen Him, you have seen the Father, because the Father is in Him. Therefore, we can know God through Jesus. Additionally, there is no other name given under heaven by which we must be saved except through Jesus.
Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
John 14:6-7 “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.'”
What happens if we serve money, even though it is easier to trust in money than in the unseen God? (1 Timothy 6:9-10, 1 Timothy 3:3, 2 Timothy 3:1-2, Hebrews 13:5, Ecclesiastes 7:12, John 10:28)
The Bible warns that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil, and we are instructed not to love money but to be content with what we have. Moreover, the Lord has promised never to leave or forsake us, and He gives eternal life and will protect us until the end. If we fail to trust in this promise and instead love, trust, and serve money, we will stray from the faith and pierce ourselves with many sorrows.
1 Timothy 6:9-10 “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.”
1 Timothy 3:3 “Not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.”
2 Timothy 3:1-2 “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy.”
Hebrews 13:5 “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'”
Ecclesiastes 7:12 “For the protection of wisdom is like the protection of money, and the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of him who has it.”
John 10:28 “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
What is the sign of my confession that I have returned to God and serve Him alone? (Matthew 6:24-26, Malachi 3:7-8)
We cannot serve both God and money. Therefore, giving a full tithe is a sign of our confession that we have returned to God and serve Him alone.
Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”
Malachi 3:7-8 “Return to me, and I will return to you, says the Lord of hosts. But you say, ‘How shall we return?’ Will man rob God? Yet you are robbing me. But you say, ‘How have we robbed you?’ In your tithes and contributions.”
2) You shall not make idols.
What is it like when someone refuses to obey God’s word and insists on their own way? (1 Samuel 15:23)
Refusing to obey God’s word and being stubborn is like the sin of idolatry.
1 Samuel 15:23 “For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry.”
What is it when people, despite knowing God, neither glorify Him nor give thanks, but live according to their desires? (Romans 1:18-23)
God has clearly revealed His invisible attributes—His eternal power and divine nature—through creation, so people are without excuse. Despite this, when they fail to glorify or thank God and instead follow their own desires, they exchange the glory of the incorruptible God for images resembling corruptible creatures, which is idolatry.
Romans 1:22-23 “Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.”
What is the number of the beast in the last days, when only those who worship the beast and receive its mark can buy or sell? (Revelation 13:15-18)
In the last days, only those who receive the mark on their right hand or forehead, which is the name of the beast or the number of its name, will be able to buy or sell. The number is the number of a man, and that number is six hundred sixty-six.
Revelation 13:18 “This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666.”
What is covetousness (greed) likened to? (Colossians 3:5)
Covetousness is likened to idolatry. The Bible urges us to put to death earthly desires such as sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
Colossians 3:5 “Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.”
3) You shall not take the Lord’s name in vain.
What is it like to swear falsely by the Lord’s name? (Leviticus 19:12)
Swearing falsely by the Lord’s name dishonors and profanes God’s name.
Leviticus 19:12 “You shall not swear by my name falsely, and so profane the name of your God: I am the Lord.”
When is God’s name blasphemed because of believers? (Romans 2:24)
God’s name is blasphemed when believers break the Law in front of unbelievers, causing them to dishonor God.
Romans 2:24 “For, as it is written, ‘The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.'”
How should we treat the name of God? (Psalm 18:49, 20:7, 30:4, 34:3, 44:5, 86:11-12, Colossians 3:17)
We should praise, give thanks, fear, exalt, and glorify the name of the Lord. In whatever we do, whether in word or deed, we should do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Psalm 18:49 “For this I will praise you, O Lord, among the nations, and sing to your name.”
Psalm 20:7 “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”
Psalm 30:4 “Sing praises to the Lord, O you his saints, and give thanks to his holy name.”
Psalm 34:3 “Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!”
Psalm 44:5 “Through you we push down our foes; through your name we tread down those who rise up against us.”
Psalm 86:11-12 “Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. 12 I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever.”
Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
4) Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.
What did the Apostle Paul say about observing the Sabbath? (Colossians 2:16-17, Hebrews 4:5-11)
Paul instructed that no one should judge you regarding the observance of the Sabbath, as it is merely a shadow of what was to come, and the substance belongs to Christ. The Sabbath was given for rest, but true rest is not found in observing a particular day. It is given to those who are saved from sin through Christ and who obey God’s Word.
Colossians 2:16-17 “Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.”
Hebrews 4:8-11 “For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. 9 So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, 10 for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. 11 Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience.”
Who set the Lord’s Day, and how should we observe it? (Psalm 118:22-24, Acts 4:11, Hebrews 4:8-9)
Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, testified, “Jesus, whom you crucified and whom God raised from the dead, is the stone that you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone” (Acts 4:11). This fulfills the prophecy in Psalm 118:22-24.
Therefore, the Lord’s Day is established by Yahweh (the Lord), and we are to observe it with praise, rejoicing, and gladness. It is a day to worship God, celebrate His works, and find joy in His presence.
Psalm 118:22-24 “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Hebrews 4:8 “For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. 9 So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God,
5) Honor your father and mother.
What blessings are there for honoring parents? (Eph 6:2-3)
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—this is the first commandment with a promise—so that it may go well with you and that you may live long on the earth.
Eph 6:2-3 “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.”
What kind of relationship does Jesus say those who obey the will of God the Father have with Him? (Matt 12:50)
Whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother, thus speaking of a new family in Christ.
Matt 12:50 “For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”
What position does a spiritual leader hold? (1 Cor 4:14-16, Gal 4:19, 1 Tim 1:2, 2 Kings 2:12)
A spiritual leader is like a parent in Christ to the believers, laboring until Christ is formed in them, much like a parent goes through the pains of childbirth.
1 Cor 4:14-16 “I do not write these things to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children. For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. I urge you, then, be imitators of me.”
Gal 4:19 “My little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you!”
1 Tim 1:2 “To Timothy, my true child in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.”
2 Kings 2:12 “And Elisha saw it and he cried, ‘My father, my father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!’ And he saw him no more. Then he took hold of his own clothes and tore them in two pieces.”
6) You shall not murder.
What is it to hate a brother? (1 John 3:15)
Anyone who hates a brother is a murderer, and no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
1 John 3:15 “Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”
What did Jesus add to the commandment not to murder? (Matt 5:21-22)
Anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment, and whoever insults his brother, saying “Raca,” will be answerable to the council. But whoever says “You fool” will be in danger of the fire of hell.
Matt 5:21-22 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire.”
Who is the enemy when we try to live a life worthy of the Lord? (Matt 10:36-38)
When we seek to live a life worthy of the Lord, the enemy who hinders such a life may be one’s own family. However, since hating them is akin to murder, we must instead pray with tears for life to enter them.
Matt 10:36-38 “And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.”
7) You shall not commit adultery.
What kind of heart does Jesus say constitutes adultery when looking at someone? (Matt 5:28)
Anyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Matt 5:28 “But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
When does a married couple commit adultery? (Matt 5:32, Mark 10:9-12)
Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against his wife, and if a wife divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.
Matt 5:32 “But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
Mark 10:9-12 “What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” And in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. And he said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”
What does the Bible say about divorce? (Mal 2:16, Mark 10:7-12, 1 Cor 7:10-11)
Divorce is something God hates, and if a couple separates, they should either remain unmarried or be reconciled. If an unbeliever departs, let them go, but if they are willing to live together, they should not be divorced, for in doing so, they avoid adultery, are sanctified, and may save their spouse.
Mal 2:16 “For the man who does not love his wife but divorces her, says the Lord, the God of Israel, covers his garment with violence, says the Lord of hosts. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and do not be faithless.”
Mark 10:7-12 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” And in the house the disciples asked him again about this matter. And he said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”
1 Cor 7:10-11 “To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife.”
8) You shall not steal.
What has God appointed as the portion for the poor? (Lev 19:9-10, Deut 14:28-29, Deut 24:19-22)
When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the edges of your field, nor gather the gleanings of your harvest. Similarly, you are not to strip your vineyard bare or gather the fallen grapes; instead, leave them for the poor and the sojourner. Every three years, you are to set aside a tithe of your produce and store it in your towns so that the Levites, who have no portion or inheritance, as well as the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, may come and eat and be satisfied. Thus, these provisions are the portion for the poor.
Lev 19:9-10 “When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field right up to its edge, neither shall you gather the gleanings after your harvest. And you shall not strip your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard. You shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner: I am the Lord your God.”
Deut 14:28-29 “At the end of every three years you shall bring out all the tithe of your produce in the same year and lay it up within your towns. And the Levite, because he has no portion or inheritance with you, and the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, who are within your towns, shall come and eat and be filled, that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands that you do.”
Deut 24:19-22 “When you reap your harvest in your field and forget a sheaf in the field, you shall not go back to get it; it shall be for the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands. When you beat your olive trees, you shall not go over them again; it shall be for the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow. When you gather the grapes of your vineyard, you shall not strip it afterward; it shall be for the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow. You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt; therefore I command you to do this.”
What is the meaning of “You who have devoured the vineyard, the spoil of the poor is in your houses”? (Isa 3:14)
It can be interpreted as consuming what was meant to be left for the poor, including even the tithe of the produce every three years.
Isa 3:14 “The Lord will enter into judgment with the elders and princes of his people: ‘It is you who have devoured the vineyard, the spoil of the poor is in your houses.'”
How did the early Christians’ view of possessions change when they were filled with the Holy Spirit? (Acts 2:44-45, Acts 4:31-35)
The believers were of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of their possessions was their own. Their view of material things shifted, and they shared everything they had. As a result, they sold their property and possessions and distributed to each according to their needs.
Acts 2:44-45 “And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.”
Acts 4:31-35 “And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.”
9) You shall not bear false witness.
What did Jesus say about bearing false witness or slander? (Matt 7:2-5)
Jesus said, “Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.”
Matt 7:2-5 “For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.”
What is the relationship between a liar and Jesus Christ? (1 John 2:21-22)
Since all lies do not come from the truth, a liar is someone who denies that Jesus is the Christ.
1 John 2:21-22 “I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth. Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son.”
What has a liar’s conscience been seared with? (1 Tim 4:2)
A liar’s conscience has been seared with a “hot iron,” which signifies being branded as a slave of Satan.
1 Tim 4:2 “Through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared.”
10) You shall not covet.
What does the Bible say not to covet? (Exodus 20:17)
You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
Exodus 20:17 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor’s.”
What did Jesus tell us to guard against, since life does not consist in the abundance of possessions? (Luke 12:15)
Jesus said, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
Luke 12:15 “And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.'”
Why should we not covet possessions? (Col 3:5, Phil 4:12, Prov 30:8, 1 Tim 6:10, Heb 13:5)
Coveting is idolatry, and it can lead one astray from the faith. Christians are called to know how to live in both humble and abundant circumstances, and to be content with what they have because they trust in God.
Col 3:5 “Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.”
Phil 4:12 “I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.”
Prov 30:8 “Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me.”
1 Tim 6:10 “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.”
Heb 13:5 “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'”
F. God’s Use of the Church for Christian Perfection
1. The Church
What is the church? (1 Cor 1:2, 1 Cor 12:12, Eph 1:22-23)
The church is made up of those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints, who call upon the name of Jesus Christ. Christ is the head of the church, and the church is His body.
1 Cor 1:2 “To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours.”
1 Cor 12:12 “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.”
Eph 1:22-23 “And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.”
Who establishes the church, and where? (Matt 16:18)
Jesus said that He will build His church on the rock.
Matt 16:18 “And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
Where is the land that God specifically instructed Abraham to go? (Gen 22:2)
It is the land of Moriah, a mountainous region (with a rock at the summit, 18×13 meters).
Gen 22:2 “He said, ‘Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.'”
What did Abraham do there? (Gen 22:13)
Abraham offered a ram provided by God as a burnt offering in place of his only son, Isaac.
Gen 22:13 “And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram, caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son.”
What did Abraham name the land of Moriah? (Gen 22:14)
He called it Yahweh Yireh (The Lord Will Provide).
Gen 22:14 “So Abraham called the name of that place, ‘The Lord will provide’; as it is said to this day, ‘On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided.'”
What mountain did Abraham build the altar on? (Gen 22:14)
It is the mountain of the Lord (Yahweh’s mountain).
Gen 22:14 “So Abraham called the name of that place, ‘The Lord will provide’; as it is said to this day, ‘On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided.'”
Where did Solomon build the temple? (2 Chron 3:1)
It was on Mount Moriah, which contains the rock.
2 Chron 3:1 “Then Solomon began to build the house of the Lord in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the Lord had appeared to David his father, at the place that David had appointed, on the threshing floor of Ornan the Jebusite.”
What is done in the temple? (2 Chron 5:6)
It is a place where sacrifices, including burnt offerings, are offered for atonement, among the five types of sacrifices.
2 Chron 5:6 “And King Solomon and all the congregation of Israel, who had assembled before him, were before the ark, sacrificing so many sheep and oxen that they could not be counted or numbered.”
What did Jesus mean when He said, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up”? (John 2:19)
The visible temple was a shadow of the reality. The true substance is Jesus, the Lamb who took away the sins of the world, died in our place, and was raised after three days to become the High Priest, establishing His body, the church.
John 2:19 “Jesus answered them, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.'”
What is Jesus doing in the heavenly sanctuary?
After offering His own blood for the atonement of those who come to Him by faith, Jesus is building His body, the church, and working to save the world. He is also interceding on our behalf.
Hebrews 7:25 “Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.”
What is the spiritual meaning of the rock that forms the foundation of the church, which the gates of Hades cannot overcome?
While justice may be called for in the world, the church is founded on Jesus Christ, our Rock, who offers the grace of atonement. It is through the testimony and realization of this atonement that the powers of Hades cannot prevail against the church.
Matt 16:18 “And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
Whom does God call to build the church? (1 Cor 1:26-28)
God chooses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chooses the lowly, despised, and things that are not, to nullify the things that are, calling His chosen ones through the message of the gospel to build His church.
1 Cor 1:26-28 “For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are.”
What is God’s purpose in doing this? (1 Cor 1:29)
It is so that no human being may boast before God. In other words, the church is made up of those called by God’s grace, ensuring that no one can boast or assert their own will but instead rely solely on God’s grace.
1 Cor 1:29 “So that no human being might boast in the presence of God.”
What are church members? (1 Cor 12:18, 27; Rom 12:4-5)
Church members are each parts of the body, according to the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
1 Cor 12:18 “But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose.”
1 Cor 12:27 “Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.”
Rom 12:4-5 “For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.”
What is the meaning of “we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another”? (Eph 1:22, Col 1:18)
This means that each part of the body does not act according to its own will but moves according to the will of the head. Since Christ is the head, all members of the body act in unity, following His direction, making them one body.
Eph 1:22 “And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church.”
Col 1:18 “And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.”
What is the authority of the keys of the kingdom that the church holds? (Matt 16:19, 18:15-20)
The church has been given the authority that whatever it binds on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever it looses on earth will be loosed in heaven. This authority includes admonishing a brother who sins, leading them to repentance, and thereby helping them enter the kingdom of heaven.
Matt 16:19 “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
Matt 18:15-20 “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”
What command did Jesus give to prevent Satan from overthrowing the church? (Matt 16:23-24)
Jesus commanded that anyone who wishes to follow Him must deny themselves and take up their cross. This is because Satan cannot overthrow those who deny themselves.
Matt 16:23-24 “But he turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.’ Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.'”
When must we take up our cross to follow Jesus? (Luke 9:23)
We must deny ourselves and take up our cross daily to follow Him.
Luke 9:23 “And he said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.'”
What gate must the church enter and what path must it follow? (Matt 7:13-14, Luke 13:23-24)
The church must strive to enter through the narrow gate, because the gate that leads to life is narrow, and the way is hard.
Matt 7:13-14 “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.”
Luke 13:23-24 “And someone said to him, ‘Lord, will those who are saved be few?’ And he said to them, ‘Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.'”
What is the purpose for which Jesus chose His disciples? (John 15:16)
Jesus chose and appointed His disciples so that they may go and bear fruit, and that their fruit would remain, so that whatever they ask the Father in His name, He may give it to them.
John 15:16 “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.”
What system did Moses establish to efficiently manage the church in the wilderness? (Exod 18:17-23, Acts 7:38)
Moses appointed chiefs of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens to manage the people.
Exod 18:17-23 “Moses’ father-in-law said to him, ‘What you are doing is not good. You and the people with you will certainly wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you. You are not able to do it alone. Now obey my voice; I will give you advice, and God be with you! You shall represent the people before God and bring their cases to God, and you shall warn them about the statutes and the laws and make them know the way in which they must walk and what they must do. Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. And let them judge the people at all times. Every great matter they shall bring to you, but any small matter they shall decide themselves. So it will be easier for you, and they will bear the burden with you. If you do this, God will direct you, you will be able to endure, and all this people also will go to their place in peace.'”
Acts 7:38 “This is the one who was in the congregation in the wilderness with the angel who spoke to him at Mount Sinai, and with our fathers. He received living oracles to give to us.”
How many people did Jesus organize and train as a basic group? (Mark 3:13-15)
Jesus selected and trained twelve people to be with Him, to send them out to preach, and to have authority to cast out demons.
Mark 3:13-15 “And he went up on the mountain and called to him those whom he desired, and they came to him. And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach and have authority to cast out demons.”
2. Spiritual Leaders
1) Spiritual leaders sent by God
Whose mouth did God put His words into? (Deut 18:18, Jer 1:9)
God placed His words in the mouth of His prophets.
Deut 18:18 “I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers. And I will put my words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him.”
Jer 1:9 “Then the Lord put out his hand and touched my mouth. And the Lord said to me, ‘Behold, I have put my words in your mouth.'”
How does God appoint spiritual leaders? (Num 27:18-23, Acts 6:6, 13:3)
God appoints spiritual leaders by choosing people who are full of faith and the Holy Spirit, presenting them before the congregation, and through prayer and the laying on of hands by His servants.
Num 27:18-23 “So the Lord said to Moses, ‘Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him. Make him stand before Eleazar the priest and all the congregation, and you shall commission him in their sight. You shall invest him with some of your authority, that all the congregation of the people of Israel may obey. And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall inquire for him by the judgment of the Urim before the Lord. At his word they shall go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he and all the people of Israel with him, the whole congregation.’ And Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua and made him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, and he laid his hands on him and commissioned him as the Lord directed through Moses.”
Acts 6:6 “These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.”
Acts 13:3 “Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.”
How can we recognize a spiritual leader sent by God? (John 3:34)
We can recognize a spiritual leader sent by God by the fact that they speak the words of God.
John 3:34 “For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure.”
Whose will must a leader sent by God follow? (John 6:38-40)
A leader sent by God does not seek to do their own will but the will of the One who sent them.
John 6:38-40 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”
How can we discern if a spiritual leader’s teaching is from God or not? (John 7:16-18)
One who speaks on their own authority seeks their own glory, but one who seeks the glory of the One who sent them is true. Therefore, we can know by observing whose glory they seek.
John 7:16-18 “So Jesus answered them, ‘My teaching is not mine, but his who sent me. If anyone’s will is to do God’s will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority. The one who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory, but the one who seeks the glory of him who sent him is true, and in him there is no falsehood.'”
What should a spiritual leader sent by God focus on? (Acts 6:4)
A spiritual leader sent by God should devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the word.
Acts 6:4 “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
What is it that receives God’s disfavor when people seek praise from others? (Luke 16:15)
Jesus said, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.”
Luke 16:15 “And he said to them, ‘You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.'”
What is the difference between worldly rulers and spiritual leaders? (Matt 20:25-28, Titus 1:6-9)
Worldly rulers exercise authority and control over others, but spiritual leaders are called to be servants. A spiritual leader must be blameless, the husband of one wife, and have children who are not rebellious or disobedient. They must not be arrogant, quick-tempered, given to drunkenness, violent, or greedy for gain. Instead, they must be hospitable, lovers of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined, holding firmly to sound teaching.
Matt 20:25-28 “But Jesus called them to him and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.'”
Titus 1:6-9 “If anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”
What attitude should a spiritual leader have? (1 Peter 5:2-3)
A spiritual leader should shepherd God’s flock not out of compulsion but willingly, in accordance with God’s will. They should not serve for dishonest gain but do so eagerly. They must not lord over those entrusted to them but be examples to the flock.
1 Peter 5:2-3 “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.”
What authority does a spiritual leader have? (Luke 10:19)
A spiritual leader, sent by the Lord, has the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy.
Luke 10:19 “Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you.”
What did Jesus compare sending spiritual leaders into the world to? (Matt 10:16)
Jesus said, “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”
Matt 10:16 “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”
What office does the Lord give to spiritual leaders to care for the church He purchased with His blood? (Acts 20:28)
The Lord appoints spiritual leaders as overseers (or bishops) to care for the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.
Acts 20:28 “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.”
Who is a spiritual leader, sent by Christ, like? (2 Cor 5:20)
A spiritual leader, sent by Christ, is an ambassador of Christ.
2 Cor 5:20 “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.”
How did spiritual leaders pray to God regarding brothers who collectively sinned? (Exod 32:32, Rom 9:3)
Spiritual leaders prayed for God’s forgiveness for their people. They even offered to have their own names blotted out from the Book of Life or to be cursed and cut off from Christ if that would result in the salvation of their people.
Exod 32:32 “But now, if you will forgive their sin—but if not, please blot me out of your book that you have written.”
Rom 9:3 “For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh.”
Receiving a spiritual leader sent by God is equivalent to receiving whom? (Matt 10:40)
Receiving a spiritual leader sent by God is like receiving Jesus, and by receiving Him, one also receives the Father who sent Him.
Matt 10:40 “Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me.”
What is it like to listen to a spiritual leader’s words, and what is it like to reject them? (Luke 10:16)
Jesus said, “Whoever listens to you listens to me, and whoever rejects you rejects me; and whoever rejects me rejects the One who sent me.”
Luke 10:16 “The one who hears you hears me, and the one who rejects you rejects me, and the one who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”
How can we distinguish whether someone in the church belongs to the world or to God? (1 John 4:5-6)
We can apply the principle found in the words, “We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us.” This helps distinguish those who belong to God from those who do not.
1 John 4:5-6 “They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error.”
How should laypeople support spiritual leaders so that it benefits them? (Gal 6:6, Heb 13:17)
Laypeople should obey and submit to their spiritual leaders, ensuring that they can serve with joy and not with grief. Since leaders watch over their souls as those who will give an account, serving with joy brings benefit to the laypeople themselves.
Gal 6:6 “Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.”
Heb 13:17 “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.”
Why should we imitate spiritual leaders, and who are they like in Christ? (1 Cor 4:15-16)
We should imitate spiritual leaders because they are like a spiritual father in Christ, having begotten us through the gospel.
1 Cor 4:15-16 “For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. I urge you, then, be imitators of me.”
How should a spiritual leader respond when falsely accused or slandered, as when accused of saying things they did not? (Luke 23:2, John 19:12)
A spiritual leader should respond like Jesus, who remained silent when falsely accused of committing treason, such as forbidding paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus chose not to defend Himself against such accusations, demonstrating humility and trust in God’s justice.
Luke 23:2 “And they began to accuse him, saying, ‘We found this man misleading our nation and forbidding us to give tribute to Caesar, and saying that he himself is Christ, a king.'”
John 19:12 “From then on Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out, ‘If you release this man, you are not Caesar’s friend. Everyone who makes himself a king opposes Caesar.'”
2) The devil’s methods to hinder spiritual growth
What was the spiritual problem of the servant who received one talent in the parable of Matthew 25? (Matt 25:24, Gal 6:7)
The servant’s spiritual problem was that he twisted his understanding of God’s nature and word. He believed that God was a harsh master who reaped where He did not sow, demonstrating a lack of trust and a distorted view of God. This aligns with the warning in Galatians 6:7, “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” The servant’s failure was in changing God’s word to suit his own beliefs.
Matt 25:24 “He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed.'”
Gal 6:7 “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.”
What sign must be placed on the head to avoid the attacks of the devil, who disregards God’s authority? (1 Cor 11:10, Mark 3:25-27)
One must place a sign of being under God’s authority on their head. This indicates submission to the authority given by God, symbolizing protection from the devil’s attacks, as the devil does not respect any authority other than God’s.
1 Cor 11:10 “That is why a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.”
Mark 3:25-27 “And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but is coming to an end. But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. Then indeed he may plunder his house.”
Whom did the devil target for his temptation between Adam and Eve? (Gen 3:1)
The devil did not directly tempt Adam, who had received authority from God, but instead targeted Eve, who was under Adam’s authority.
Gen 3:1 “Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, ‘Did God actually say, “You shall not eat of any tree in the garden”?’ “
What is the spirit that complains and opposes spiritual leaders? (Zech 3:1, Job 1:9)
The spirit that complains, opposes, and accuses spiritual leaders is Satan.
Zech 3:1 “Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to accuse him.”
Job 1:9 “Then Satan answered the Lord and said, ‘Does Job fear God for no reason?'”
Complaints against a spiritual leader sent by God are equivalent to complaints against whom? (Exod 16:8)
When the Israelites grumbled and complained against Moses, he said, “Who are we? Your grumbling is not against us but against the Lord.” This shows that complaints and grumbling against a spiritual leader are equivalent to complaining against God.
Exod 16:8″ And Moses said, ‘When the Lord gives you in the evening meat to eat and in the morning bread to the full, because the Lord has heard your grumbling that you grumble against him—what are we? Your grumbling is not against us but against the Lord.'”
What thoughts and methods did Korah use to oppose the spiritual leader sent by God? (Num 16:1-2)
Korah, along with Dathan, Abiram, and On, formed a faction and gathered 250 well-known leaders from among the congregation to oppose Moses.
Num 16:1-2 “Now Korah the son of Izhar, son of Kohath, son of Levi, and Dathan and Abiram the sons of Eliab, and On the son of Peleth, sons of Reuben, took men. And they rose up before Moses, with a number of the people of Israel, 250 chiefs of the congregation, chosen from the assembly, well-known men.”
Why did the Israelites have to live in the wilderness for 40 years? (Num 14:2-3, 33-34)
The Israelites’ 40 years of wilderness wandering were a consequence of their evil report about the promised land and their complaints against the spiritual leaders. For each of the 40 days they spent spying out the land, God decreed a year of wandering as punishment for their rebellion and lack of faith.
Num 14:33-34 “And your children shall be shepherds in the wilderness for forty years and shall suffer for your faithlessness, until the last of your dead bodies lies in the wilderness. According to the number of the days in which you spied out the land, forty days, a year for each day, you shall bear your iniquity forty years, and you shall know my displeasure.”
What is it like to slander a spiritual leader or a brother? (James 4:11-12)
Slandering a spiritual leader or a brother is like speaking against and judging the law that God has established.
James 4:11-12 “Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?”
What resolution should we make regarding spiritual leaders to ensure victory in our spiritual life? (1 Cor 10:10)
To achieve victory in the spiritual life, we should resolve not to grumble or criticize spiritual leaders.
1 Cor 10:10 “Nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the destroyer.”
3) False leaders
How are false leaders, who are not sent by God, revealed? (Matt 7:15-20)
The Bible says, “You will recognize them by their fruit. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit… Thus you will recognize them by their fruit.”
Matt 7:15-20″Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.”
Even if one prophesies, casts out demons, and performs miracles in the Lord’s name, what makes them a false leader? (Matt 7:21-24)
A person is considered a false leader if they do not obey the Lord’s commands and instead practice lawlessness.
Matt 7:21-23 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'”
How do false leaders deceive people? (2 Thess 2:8-12, Matt 24:24-25)
False leaders deceive people through all kinds of signs, false miracles, and unrighteous deception, following Satan’s activity. If possible, they would even deceive the elect.
2 Thess 2:9-10 “The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved.”
Matt 24:24-25 “For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand.”
Who follows false leaders? (2 Thess 2:12)
Those who do not believe the truth but take pleasure in unrighteousness follow false leaders.
2 Thess 2:12 “In order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”
Why should you not listen to a prophet or dreamer, even if they show signs and wonders that come true, but then say to follow other gods? (Deut 13:1-3)
It is because the Lord your God is testing you to know whether you love Him with all your heart and with all your soul.
Deut 13:3 “You shall not listen to the words of that prophet or that dreamer of dreams. For the Lord your God is testing you, to know whether you love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul.”
What are those who pretend to be humble, exaggerate their visions, and engage in angel worship not holding onto? (Col 2:18-19)
They are not holding fast to the Head, and instead, they are puffed up without reason by their fleshly mind.
Col 2:18-19 “Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.”
Who are those who follow their lusts, commit adultery, are greedy, and despise authority? (2 Peter 2:1, 10)
These are false leaders who secretly introduce heresies.
2 Peter 2:1 “But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction.”
2 Peter 2:10 “And especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority. Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones.”
How should we deal with divisive or argumentative people (heretics) after warning them once or twice? (Titus 3:9-10)
Those who belong to heresy and engage in foolish arguments, disputes, and quarrels about the law should be warned once or twice and then be avoided.
Titus 3:9-10 “But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him.”
4) The attitude of a minister
What should ministers think wisely about and not go beyond? (Rom 12:3, 1 Cor 4:6)
Ministers should not think of themselves more highly than they ought but should think with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given each person. They must also not go beyond what is written in Scripture.
Rom 12:3 “For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.”
1 Cor 4:6 “I have applied all these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, brothers, that you may learn by us not to go beyond what is written, that none of you may be puffed up in favor of one against another.”
How did the apostles report what they had done and taught to Jesus? (Mark 6:30)
The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to Him everything they had done and taught.
Mark 6:30 “The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught.”
What kind of people did Paul instruct Timothy to pass on his teachings to? (2 Tim 2:2)
Paul instructed Timothy to entrust his teachings to faithful people who would be able to teach others as well.
2 Tim 2:2 “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.”
How did Paul urge others to follow his example? (Phil 3:17)
Paul urged others to follow his example and to keep their eyes on those who live according to the example they have in him.
Phil 3:17 “Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.”
Why must Paul strongly urge this? (Phil 3:18-19)
It is because of those who walk as enemies of the cross. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, their glory is in their shame, and their minds are set on earthly things.
Phil 3:18-19 “For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.”
As the end times draw near, what does the Bible say about gathering together? (Heb 10:24-25)
The Bible instructs us not to give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing. Instead, we should encourage one another, spurring each other on toward love and good deeds, and gather all the more as we see the Day approaching.
Heb 10:24-25 “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
How often and where did the early church gather, and what contributed to their growth? (Acts 2:46-47)
The early church met daily with one accord in the temple, and they broke bread in their homes, eating with glad and sincere hearts while praising God. They found favor with the people, and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Acts 2:46-47 “And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.”
3. Ministry
What was the ministry of Jesus, the head of the church? (Matt 4:23)
Jesus’ ministry involved teaching, proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.
Matt 4:23 “And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people.”
What ministry did Jesus entrust to His disciples? (John 21:15-17, Matt 28:19-20)
Jesus entrusted His disciples with the task of feeding and caring for His sheep, making disciples of all nations, baptizing them, and teaching them to obey everything He had commanded.
John 21:15-17 “When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’ He said to him, ‘Feed my lambs.’ He said to him a second time, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me?’ He said to him, ‘Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.’ He said to him, ‘Tend my sheep.’ He said to him the third time, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ and he said to him, ‘Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.'”
Matt 28:19-20 “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Who distributes spiritual gifts, and according to whose will? (1 Cor 12:11)
Spiritual gifts are distributed by the Holy Spirit, who gives them to each person according to His will.
1 Cor 12:11 “All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.”
What is the purpose of God giving spiritual gifts? (1 Cor 12:7)
God gives each person the manifestation of the Spirit for the benefit of the church.
1 Cor 12:7 “To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”
What are the types of spiritual gifts? (1 Cor 12:8-10, 28-30; Rom 12:6-8; Eph 4:11)
The spiritual gifts include the word of wisdom, word of knowledge, faith, gifts of healing, working of miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, various kinds of tongues, interpretation of tongues, apostles, prophets, pastors and teachers, miracles, helping, administrating, evangelists, exhorting, giving, and showing mercy.
When using spiritual gifts, what should be built up in the church? (1 Cor 14:26)
When we gather and use our spiritual gifts—whether it is a hymn, teaching, revelation, speaking in tongues, or interpreting—it should all be done to build up the church.
1 Cor 14:26 “What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up.”
Who are the elders in the Bible? (1 Peter 5:1, 3 John 1:1)
Elders are witnesses of the sufferings of Christ and partakers of the glory that is to be revealed. Both Peter and John referred to themselves as elders.
1 Peter 5:1 “So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed.”
3 John 1:1 “The elder to the beloved Gaius, whom I love in truth.”
What did Stephen and Philip, the deacons, do? (Acts 7:2-56, Acts 8:30-39)
They engaged in teaching by explaining the Scriptures, baptizing, and preaching the gospel.
Acts 7:2-56 “Stephen gave a detailed teaching about Israel’s history and God’s work, leading to his defense of the gospel before the Sanhedrin.”
Acts 8:30-39 “Philip explained the Scriptures to the Ethiopian eunuch and baptized him after sharing the good news of Jesus.”
4. Healing
What did we gain through Jesus’ suffering and being scourged? (Isa 53:5, 1 Peter 2:24)
Through Jesus’ suffering and being scourged, we gained healing.
Isa 53:5 “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”
1 Peter 2:24 “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”
What did Jesus take upon Himself? (Matt 8:17)
Jesus took upon Himself our infirmities and bore our sicknesses.
Matt 8:17 “This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah: ‘He took our illnesses and bore our diseases.'”
What kind of diseases does God heal when He heals us? (Psalm 103:3)
God forgives all our iniquities and heals all our diseases.
Psalm 103:3 “Who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases.”
What does God send to heal diseases? (Psalm 107:20)
God sends His word to heal people and rescue them from destruction.
Psalm 107:20 “He sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction.”
What kind of rays does God shine on those who fear His name? (Malachi 4:2)
For those who fear God’s name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays, and they will go out and leap like calves from the stall.
Malachi 4:2 “But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall.”
What is the secret to enjoying physical health? (Proverbs 4:20-22)
For those who keep God’s words in their heart, His words become life and bring health to their whole body.
Proverbs 4:20-22 “My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh.”
What does God promise to take away and provide if we serve Him? (Exodus 23:25-26)
God promises that if we serve Him, He will bless our bread and water, take away sickness from among us, and ensure that none will miscarry or be barren. He will also fulfill the number of our days.
Exodus 23:25-26 “You shall serve the Lord your God, and he will bless your bread and your water, and I will take sickness away from among you. None shall miscarry or be barren in your land; I will fulfill the number of your days.”
What did Jesus heal all those oppressed by? (Acts 10:38)
Jesus, anointed with the Holy Spirit and power, went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil.
Acts 10:38 “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”
What should the church do when praying for a sick person? (James 5:14-16)
The church should call the elders, and they are to pray over the sick person, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. They should also confess their sins to one another and pray for each other so that they may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
James 5:14-16 “Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.”
5. Using the family as a church
Who in the Bible used their homes as a church? (Acts 12:12, 16:40; Philemon 1:2; Colossians 4:15; 1 Corinthians 16:15, 19)
John Mark’s mother Mary, Lydia, Apphia and Archippus, Nympha in Laodicea, Stephanas, and Priscilla and Aquila, as well as Philemon, used their homes as places for the church to gather.
Acts 12:12 (Mary, mother of John Mark)
Acts 16:40 (Lydia)
Philemon 1:2 (Apphia and Archippus)
Colossians 4:15 (Nympha)
1 Corinthians 16:15, 19 (Stephanas; Priscilla and Aquila)
When homes were used as churches, who was more active in ministry, men or women?
It appears that women were actively involved in leading small group gatherings, as many of the homes mentioned were owned by women, or their names were listed before men’s. This suggests that women played a prominent role in hosting and possibly leading these early church meetings.
What is marriage? (Genesis 2:24, Ephesians 5:31)
Marriage is when a man leaves his parents and is united to his wife, and the two become one flesh.
Genesis 2:24 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”
Ephesians 5:31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.”
What mystery is found in the statement that a man leaves his parents and is united to his wife, and the two become one flesh? (Ephesians 5:31-32)
There is a profound mystery here, referring to how the church becomes one body with Christ.
Ephesians 5:31-32 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.”
Why does God command not to divorce the wife of one’s youth? (Malachi 2:14-15)
God made a man and a woman one flesh because He seeks godly offspring. Therefore, those who are married must guard their hearts and not betray or act treacherously toward the wife of their youth, as this is something God hates.
Malachi 2:14-15 “Because the Lord was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant. Did he not make them one, with a portion of the Spirit in their union? And what was the one God seeking? Godly offspring. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and let none of you be faithless to the wife of your youth.”
How does a family filled with the Holy Spirit live before God? (Ephesians 5:19-20)
A Spirit-filled family lives by speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, and always giving thanks to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ for everything.
Ephesians 5:19-20 “Addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
How should a wife relate to her husband according to the Bible? (Ephesians 5:22-24)
A wife should submit to her husband as she does to the Lord, because the husband is the head of the wife, just as Christ is the head of the church. Therefore, just as the church submits to Christ, wives should submit to their husbands in everything.
Ephesians 5:22-24 “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.”
How should a husband treat his wife according to the Bible? (Ephesians 5:25-30, 1 Peter 3:7)
A husband should love his wife as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her. He should love her as his own body, nourishing and cherishing her. Additionally, he should live with his wife with understanding, treating her with honor as the weaker vessel and as a co-heir of the grace of life, so that his prayers are not hindered.
Ephesians 5:25-30 “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body.”
1 Peter 3:7 “Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.”
How should children treat their parents according to the Bible? (Ephesians 6:1-3)
Children should obey and honor their parents in the Lord. This is the first commandment with a promise, so that it may go well with them and that they may live long on the earth.
Ephesians 6:1-3 “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ (this is the first commandment with a promise), ‘that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.'”
How should parents treat their children according to the Bible? (Ephesians 6:4, Deuteronomy 6:5-7)
Parents should not provoke their children to anger, but raise them in the training and instruction of the Lord. To do this, parents must first love God with all their heart, soul, and strength, and keep His words in their heart. They should diligently teach these words to their children, talking about them when sitting at home, walking on the way, lying down, and rising up.
Ephesians 6:4 “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
Deuteronomy 6:5-7 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.”
What is the mystery of God’s plan to make a Spirit-filled family into a church? (Ephesians 5:32, Acts 16:31)
The ultimate purpose of God’s salvation is the restoration of the family, as expressed in the promise, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” When a family is filled with the Holy Spirit and gathers as a church, others are drawn to follow that example of a Spirit-filled life.
Ephesians 5:32 “This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.”
Acts 16:31 “And they said, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.'”
6. The Second Coming of Christ and the Resurrection of the Body
What is our hope waiting for? (Titus 2:13, 1 Peter 1:7)
We are waiting for the return of Jesus Christ in His glory, when we will receive praise, glory, and honor at His appearing.
Titus 2:13 “Waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.”
1 Peter 1:7 “So that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”
What is the relationship between Jesus’ resurrection and us? (1 Corinthians 15:23)
Since Jesus is the firstfruits of the resurrection, when He comes again, those who belong to Christ will also be resurrected, just as He was, and receive a body like His resurrected body.
1 Corinthians 15:23 “But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ.”
What form will we take after the resurrection? (1 Corinthians 15:49)
After the resurrection, we will bear the image of the heavenly man.
1 Corinthians 15:49 “Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we shall also bear the image of the man of heaven.”
What kind of form did the resurrected Jesus have? (Luke 24:38)
The resurrected Lord had a physical body with flesh and bones, not just a spirit.
Luke 24:38-39 “And he said to them, ‘Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.'”
What kind of body is the resurrected body? (1 Corinthians 15:44)
The resurrected body is a spiritual body, unlike the natural body that perishes. The natural body is subject to decay, but the resurrected body is incorruptible and glorified.
1 Corinthians 15:44 “It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.”
How is the resurrected Lord’s spiritual body different from our physical bodies? (John 20:19)
The resurrected Lord, with His glorified body, could enter rooms even when the doors were shut, as He did when He appeared to His disciples. He could also walk and talk with His disciples, but when they recognized Him, He would sometimes become physically unseeable to them, showing the unique nature of His resurrected body.
John 20:19 “On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.'”
How was the resurrected body of the Lord different from before? (Mark 16:12)
The resurrected Lord appeared in a different form than before His resurrection.
Mark 16:12″After these things he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country.”
What are the signs of the Lord’s coming and the end of the world? (Matthew 24:3-31)
As the Lord’s coming and the end of the world approach, false Christs will appear, there will be wars, famines, and earthquakes in various places. The Lord’s servants will face persecution and hatred for His name. Many false prophets will arise, performing great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. Lawlessness will increase, causing love to grow cold.
Matthew 24:12 “And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.”
What words of hope did the Lord give through Isaiah when His people were afraid? (Isaiah 41:9-10)
The Lord said, “You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off; fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will surely help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Why is Christ’s return delayed? (2 Peter 3:8-9)
God is patient, not wanting anyone to perish but for all to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”
What will happen at the return of Christ? (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Matthew 24:30-31)
At Christ’s return, the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet of God. He will come on the clouds with power and great glory. The dead in Christ will rise first, and then those who are alive will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.”
Matthew 24:30-31 “Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.”
How should those who are waiting for Christ’s return live? (2 Peter 3:10-14)
Those who are waiting for Christ’s return should live in holiness and godliness, eagerly longing for the day of God. They strive to be found by the Lord without spot or blemish, and at peace with Him.
2 Peter 3:10-14 “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed. Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace.”
How should we respond to the Lord’s return? (Revelation 22:20)
Since the Lord has said, “Surely I am coming soon,” we should respond by saying, “Amen, come, Lord Jesus.”
Revelation 22:20 “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”
I bless you with the peace and joy of our Lord upon completing your Bible study. The editor has gathered only the Word of God, without any personal testimonies, based on 40 years of numerous spiritual experiences. To make the spirituality found in this Bible study truly your own, you must, like the editor, read and re-read it repeatedly, applying it to yourself. Only then will you triumph as an A+ believer. May we all, when our earthly bodies return to dust, receive the glorious resurrected body given by the Lord and dwell with Him forever. In Christ…