THE BIBLE: GOD’S MESSAGE TO MANKIND!
ADVANCED BIBLE STUDY COURSE #103 8LESSON CORRESPONDENCE PROGRAM
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
By: Harr y D. Middleton
INTRODUCTION 8Lesson Bible Course #103 Welcome to this study of God’s Holy Word, the Bible! You are to be commended for your interest in Bible study. Searching God’s Word for the spiritual principles of life will reward you with a greater understanding of why you are on this earth. It will enhance your present life, and will give you hope for a wonderful eternal life with God, if you do His will and keep His Holy commandments. SUGGESTIONS FOR STUDYIN G This course will consider only Bible facts, only the principles taught in the Bible. It will not deal with the multitude of theories of men; and the countless speculations on things not fully explained in the Bible. The Bible is not a history book as such, but it does give us the most complete story of men’s life on this earth. The purpose of the histor y given in the Bible is to show God’s love for man; and how God has cared for man down through all ages. The entire Bible has been given to strengthen our faith in God. There are twelve questions for each lesson in this course of study located at http://www.lebanonroadchurchofchr ist.org/biblecorrespondence/ in a separate file. After you have studied the lesson, when all eight lessons and tests have been completed, save your answers and information and email to
[email protected] . The tests will be graded and retur ned to you. If you complete the tests satisfactorily, you will be sent a diploma, a CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION , which is suitable for framing. Our staff will answer any Bible questions you may have. They do not, however, deal with men’s theories and speculations. Other courses will be offered. You may indicate on your test if you want to enroll in the next study.
LESSON 1 THE BIBLE -- GOD’S WILL FOR MAN This introductory lesson of course #103 will acquaint the student with the Bible as God’s Will for man. It will be observed that the words “Testament” and “Covenant” are used interchangeably. I am profitably engaged in reading the Bible. Take all of this book upon reason that you can, and the balance by faith, and you will live and die a better man. -- Abraham Lincoln Why Study the Bible? It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible. -- George Washington The Bible is the only book over which men have labored diligently in order to produce unusual and interesting facts about. There are 66 books in the Bible: 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament. Approximately 40 men, over a period of 1600 years, wrote the Bible. They came from various backgrounds; yet, their writings are all harmonious We should study the Bible for the great spiritual benefits that are to be derived from such studies. We should study the Bible because it is interesting, unique, and without equal in the literary field. But above all, we should study the Bible because of the value it has upon the souls of men; more especially, the value it has on YOUR soul. We must study God's word because a lack of knowledge leads to destruction. (Hosea 4:6.) We must study God's word because it will make us wise unto salvation. (II Timothy 3:15.) We must study God's word because it is the "seed" of the kingdom. (Luke 8:11.) We must study the Bible because it is written for our learning. (Romans 15:4.) We must study the Bible because man is not able to direct his steps; therefore, the word provides guidance. (Psalm 119:105; Jeremiah 10:23; Matthew 15:14.) We must study the Bible because it contains God's will for time and eternity. (His will for our life.) (I Corinthians 15:51-54; I Peter 1:2-5; Hebrews 5:8-9.) We must study the Bible because it provides comfort. (Romans 15:4.) 1
We must study the Bible because it is true. (John 8:32; 17:17; Acts 17:11.) Study the Bible to be wise; believe it to be safe; practice it to be holy. -- Unknown The Bible contains facts about God, Satan, sin, angels, and many other vital topics. It also contains much about YOU! The more you read and study the Bible, the more you learn about yourself. You learn: That you are created in the image of God. (Genesis 1:26-27.) That you have sinned (Romans 3:23); and these sins have separated you from God. (Isaiah 59:1-2.) That, even though you have sinned, God loves you. (John 3:16.) That God planned to save you in Christ before the foundation of the world. (Ephesians1:1-7.) That Christ died for you; even if you had been the only sinner. (Romans 5:6-9.) That God's grace is extended to you through Christ. (Ephesians 2:5-8.) That death is not the end of your existence. (John 5:24; Luke 16:19ff; Hebrews 9:27; Acts 17:30-31.) That try as you may, you still sin (Romans 7; I John 1:8-9); this is why we need Christ . (Romans 4; I John 1:7.) Inspiration A study of the Bible is one of the most rewarding, as well as challenging activities in which a person can involve himself. The Bible claims inspiration for itself. More than 3,000 times the phrase "thus saith the Lord" occurs. Old Testament authors were repeatedly commanded to write what God desired. (Exodus 17:14; 34:27; Numbers 33:2; Isaiah 8:1; 30:8; Jeremiah 25:13; 30:2; Ezekiel 24:1; Daniel 12:4; Habakkuk 2:2.) If the Bible is not the word of God someone has told lie after lie by leaving the impression that it claims to be. And the amazing thing is that the Bible condemns those who lie. (Revelation 21:8.) The 66 books of the Bible were written, by 40 authors, over a period of 1,600 years. Many of these men did not see the writings of the others; yet, there is no contradiction. They all agree! The unity of the Bible exists because "men spake as they were moved by the Spirit of God" (II Peter 1:21). As the apostle Paul noted, "All scripture is God-breathed" (II Timothy 3:15-17). Prophecies A study of the Bible will produce many prophecies and their fulfillment. This is one of the greatest proofs of inspiration. As the prophets spoke they were constantly reminding the people that they were speaking from God. (Jeremiah 36:27, 32; Ezekiel 26, 27, 31, 32, 39.) A few prophecies and their fulfillment are all dealing with Christ: (1) His place of birth, Micah 5:2---------------------Matt. 2:1 (2) Virgin birth, Isaiah------------------------------Matt. 1:20 2
(3) Descendent of the tribe of Judah, Gen. 49:10---------------Heb. 7:14 (4) His rejection, Isaiah 53:3------------------------John 1:11 (5) His betrayal, Psalm 41:9--------------------------John 13:26 (6) The traitor's fee, Zechariah--------------------Mt. 26:14-15 (7) Nailed to a cross, Psalm 22:16--------------------Luke 23:33 (8) The tomb could not hold Him, Psalm 16:10----------Acts 2:31 (9) One was to announce His coming--- Malachi 3:1; 4:5; Luke 1:17; Mt. 17:9-13 (10) He was to enter the ministry in Galilee-----Isaiah 9:1-2; Mt. 4:12-16 The only way one can account for these prophecies is to acknowledge that there is an all wise God behind them. The true God who can see past, present, future in the "NOW". As we approach every session of Bible study, let us do so with deep reverence and respect for God's word. "All scripture is inspired of God." To depart in one slight point will have major consequences later. This truth is sustained in the history of interpretation and the maze of error by such departures. You are fighting a lost cause if you try to study and interpret the Bible without the firm conviction that it is inspired of God. The Bible is a library of books. There are 66 books in the Holy Bible. It is divided into two major divisions: the Old Testament which contains 39 books, and the New Testament which contains 27 books. There are five (5) major categories in the Old Testament. I. The Pentateuch: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers , Deuteronomy. II. The Books of History: Joshua, Judges, Ruth, I & II , Samuel, I & II Kings, I & II , Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther III. Poetical Books: Job, The Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes , Song of Solomon, Lamentations IV. The Major Prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel V. The Minor Prophets: Hosea, Jonah, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi. There are six (6) major categories in the New Testament. I. The Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John. II. The Acts of the Apostles III. Paul's Epistles: Romans, I & II Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, I & II Thessalonians, I & II Timothy, Titus, Philemon. IV. The Book of Hebrews V. The General Epistles: James, I & II Peter, I, II & III , John, Jude. VI. The Book of Revelation. Understanding the Testaments A vital key to understanding the overall message of the Bible is knowledge of the Old and New Covenants. Many persons get into Bible study and do not know the difference between the old and the new or when one covenant began and the other ended. Many false doctrines are taught because of this problem. For example, the thief on the cross is used by many as "proof" that a person doesn't have to be baptized for the remission of sin. [What they fail to realize is the fact that the thief lived and died under the Old Covenant and was not subject to the command to be baptized. Jesus did not give that 3
command until after his resurrection from the dead.] (Mark 16:15-16.) The prophet Jeremiah predicted that there was coming a time when a new covenant would be established (Jeremiah 31:30-32). During His earthly ministry Jesus said, "For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins" (Matthew 26:28). The Hebrews writer said, "And for this cause He is the mediator of the New Testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance" (Hebrews 9:15). In Hebrews 10:9 the text says, "He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second." In Hebrews 8:8 the writer quotes the prophecy of Jeremiah, and says, "Behold, the day come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah." Later, in verse thirteen, the writer says, "In that He saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away." A person can't read the book of Hebrews with an open mind and still conclude that we are living under the old covenant. The new covenant which Jesus established is an everlasting covenant (Hebrews 13:20). This is why we will be judged by the teaching in the new covenant scriptures (John 12:48; Romans 2:16). To understand the differences in the old and new covenants, it is essential to know that the old covenant was given to the nation of Israel only. This is what Moses said, "And Moses called unto all Israel, and said unto them, Hear, O Israel, the statutes and the ordinances which I speak in your ears this day, that ye may learn them and observe to do them. Jehovah our God made a covenant with us in Horeb. Jehovah made not this covenant with our fathers, but with us, even us, who are all of us here alive this day" (Deut. 5:1-4). The Bible is a unique book; there is none other like it. While it contains a library of 66 books, it also contains a central theme in which all the events in the Bible are woven. The central theme in the Bible may be summarized in the following points: 1. Man sinned and couldn't save himself. He needed a Savior. 2. God promised fallen man a redeemer. The Christ would come (Genesis 3:15). 3. God chose the nation of Israel through which the Messiah would come. He gave them a law (covenant) to govern their every action. 4. In the fullness of time the Messiah came. (Galatians 4:4.) 5. Christ died and gave His blood for the redemption of man. (John 1:29; Revelation 1:5; I Peter 1:17-20.) 6. The Savior ascended back to heaven. (Acts 1) 7. The church was established on the Day of Pentecost. (Acts 2) 8. The Holy Spirit came and guided men into all truth, which we now have in the Holy Bible. (II Peter 1:3.) 9. Christ is coming again. (Acts 1; I Thess. 4:14-18; II Thess. 1:7-10) An overview of the Bible will help you connect all these grand truths and put them in their proper historical setting, as you rightly divide the word. (II Timothy 2:15.) Now that you have spent much time studying the material in this lesson and searched each scripture listed, you are ready to turn to test #1. After you have completed all eight lessons and tests, remove the test sheet from the booklet. Fill out the return address sheet with any comments and/or questions you 4
may have and mail. The tests will be graded and returned to you.
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LESSON 2 MAN IS LOST The spiritual condition of man at birth is known to be SAFE until he reaches the age of accountability. That age cannot be set specifically for all men. When one learns right from wrong and is old enough to be taught and can understand and discern, then one finds himself in a spiritually lost state. With regard to one being in a safe or a lost condition, it is important to understand the will of God from the beginning. Adam and Eve chose to reject the direct command of God and elected to join the rebellious state of the serpent (Satan), giving heed to his directives (Genesis 3:1-15). God's immediate detection and execution of punishment followed. And the Lord God said, Behold, the Man is become as one of us, to know Good and evil: and now, lest he put Forth his hand, and take also of the Tree of life, and eat, and live forever: Therefore the Lord God sent him forth From the garden of Eden, to till the Ground from whence he was taken. So he drove out the man; and he placed At the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which Turned every way, to keep the way of The tree of life (Genesis 3:22-24). The above scripture relates the expulsion of the first couple from the beautiful garden of Eden. Man's relationship with God immediately changed. Earlier Adam and Eve enjoyed a relationship with God that has not been equaled since. God promised the violators of his command in the garden instant death. Physically, Adam and Eve did not die immediately, but, as a result, man began to die. Spiritually, as God evicted them from Eden, that separation was death. Through the prophet Isaiah, God said: Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened that he cannot save, neither his ear heavy that he cannot hear, but your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you that he will not hear (Isaiah 59:1-2). Through the ages, as a result of the disobedience of Adam and Eve, sin has existed. Affirming its existence in Acts 3:19 Peter announces: Repent ye, therefore and be converted that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. 6
Again Peter says: Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins (Acts 5:31). Peter assures the existence of sin when he states: To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall have remission of sins. What Is Sin? To answer the question, "What is Sin?", it is necessary to realize the scripture indicates it is both commission and omission. In John's first epistle we find his definition of sin. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law (I John 3:4). James in his short letter defines sin. Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin (James 4:17). John indicates that we commit sin when we do something in violation of God's law. For example, God says, "thou shalt not steal!" If I steal, I have violated (transgressed) God's law; therefore, I have committed sin. In the words of James we are told that if God says we must do something, and we fail to do it (omit it), then we have sinned. When God's word says to repent, or believe, or be baptized, or worship him, we have sinned if we fail to obey. Who Sins? The Bible is very clear in its confirmation regarding those who sin. Paul concludes: For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God… (Romans 3:23). This is all inclusive. "All have sinned." Is there anyone who has not sinned? Only one (Jesus) has been able to live on this earth completely free of sin. (II Cor. 5:21; Hebrews 4:15; 7:26; I John 3:5.) The truth of the sinfulness of all men is emphasized by John. If we say that we have no sin, we 7
deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar and his word is not in us (I John 1:8-10). Penalty for Sin. Consequent to the sin of each individual, either by commission or omission, there must follow a penalty. Notice John's stellar statement regarding sin's consequences. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: Whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother (I John 3:8-10). Jesus declared: Verily, Verily, I say unto you, whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin (John 8:34). Paul announced: Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey; his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness (Romans 6:16). Later in that same writing Paul said: For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:23).
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LESSON 3 CHRIST – OUR SALVATION Because of the inability of man to redeem himself and God's desire to have man reconciled unto himself, we are told: For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). It was for that reason and that only, that God would send his Son to earth. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost (Luke 19:10). Paul reemphasized this truth by saying: This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief (I Timothy 1:15). Jesus affirmed access unto himself by stating: I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:9-10). Of course, his confirming statement is: I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me (John 14:6). Obedience Necessary! In emphasizing the necessity of obedience to the commands of the Lord Jesus, Paul wrote to the Thessalonians: And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus 9
Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power (II Thessalonians 1:7-9). Jesus strongly taught obedience in his sermon on the mount. Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works: and then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity (Matthew 7:21-23). Jesus clearly taught that there is only one road that is safe. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (Matthew 7:13-14). Paul's teaching indicates his great faith in the necessity of obedience and the desire to lead his brethren the Jews, to Jesus. Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth (Romans 10:1-4). To Timothy, Paul wrote of God's desire for man. Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth (I Timothy 2:4). 10
Peter realized the importance and necessity of obedience as evidenced by his statement: The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (II Peter 3:9). James emphasized the extent of obedience. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all (James 2:10). Before Jesus ascended into heaven, to his Apostles, he said: All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world (Matthew 28:18-20). The conclusion of the matter of obedience is stated by Jesus. If ye love me, keep my commandments (John 14:15).
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LESSON 4 SPECIFIC ACTS OF OBEDIENCE Just as clearly as the Bible teaching is concerning the necessity of obedience, is the teaching regarding the specific acts of obedience. We may call them facts to be obeyed or steps to be taken in obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ in order for man to be removed from his lost state. Belief When John wrote that it was God's love for the world that motivated him to send his only begotten Son, he further wrote: For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God (John 3:17-18). Later as Jesus taught the importance of belief he said: I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins (John 8:24). In teaching the Romans how faith comes, Paul wrote: So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17). There should be no doubt or questioning the Bible's teaching the necessity of belief as it concerns man's relationship to God. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is the rewarder of them that diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6) Repentance 12
Progressing toward a reconciliation of man to God, Paul wrote: And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30). Paul had little success in getting the Athenians to respond to his teaching. After he had gone on to Corinth and had established the church in that city, he later wrote: For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death (II Corinthians 7:10). Jesus, in Matthew 21:28-31, gave specific examples of repentance and non-repentance as he taught to convince the Pharisees to turn and follow him. The necessity of repentance was stated, clearly, by Jesus in Luke 13:3. I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Confession of Christ John taught his followers to confess their sins, but Jesus taught: Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven (Matthew 10:32-33). Paul included the confession in his instruction to the Romans. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation (Romans 10:9-10). A record of this confession as one progressed unto salvation is recorded in Acts 8:36-37. The Ethiopian Eunuch was being taught by the preacher, Philip, when the following scene took place: And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, 13
See, here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Confession of Christ takes one a step closer to salvation in Christ. Baptism To impress upon his apostles, the need for teaching and the complete obedience of those taught, Jesus stated before he left them: Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature, he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned (Mark 16:15-16). The greatest question ever asked was answered by Peter on the day of Pentecost following the ascension of Jesus when he said: Repent ye and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38). Saul of Tarsus was told: And now why tarriest thou, arise and be baptized and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord (Acts 22:16). There is little doubt as to the importance of baptism when one reads Peter's statement: Which sometimes were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, where in few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ (I Peter 3:20-21). Paul paints the perfect picture when he writes: Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up 14
from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4). Baptism is essentially that step in obedience that puts one into the death of Christ, where he shed his blood.
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LESSON 5 BAPTISM LINKS TO CHRIST One is reconciled to God through the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. It however, is in baptism that one is linked to Christ in order to receive the benefits of the supreme sacrifice. To the Colossians Paul wrote: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:14). As was foretold by Jesus, this was the intent. For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins (Matthew 26:28). Paul declared the obedient Romans to be linked to Christ: Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (Romans 6:3). Paul concludes that baptism links us to Christ by putting us into Christ. Christ's Body the Church To excite within the Colossians a greater appreciation for and an understanding of the Church, Paul wrote: And he is the head of the body, the Church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence (Colossians 1:18). Instructing the Ephesians, Paul wrote: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all (Ephesians 1:22-23). Again, Paul said, "There is one body," (Ephesians 4:4.) Further, Paul noted: For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body (Ephesians 5:23). Paul declared: For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one 16
body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit (I Corinthians 12:13). Paul was exhorting the elders from Ephesus when he said: Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood (Acts 20:28). In speaking of those who obeyed on Pentecost, Luke wrote: Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls (Acts 2:41). Later he added: Praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved (Acts 2:47). Jesus praying for the unity of believers said: Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me (John 17:20-21). Impressing the Corinthians with the degree of unity demanded, in teaching on obedience, Paul said: Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; 17
and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? (I Corinthians 1:10-13.) Would anyone deny that there must be total unity among brethren? Blessings in Christ Within the church, Christ's body, has been placed all spiritual blessings and these blessings are said to be "in Christ" (Ephesians 1:3). If all spiritual blessings are in Christ then there are no spiritual blessings outside of Christ. Paul to the Corinthians says: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new (II Corinthians 5:17). Those "in Christ" are new creatures. To the Romans Paul noted: There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit (Romans 8:1). Being justified "in Christ" is qualified by "walking after the Spirit," not after the flesh. To impact his teaching to Timothy, Paul wrote: Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory (II Timothy 2:10). Note the placing of salvation "in Christ." John quotes from the record: and this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son (I John 5:11). Please note, John says eternal life is "in Christ." Again, John pronounces a blessing on those "in Christ." And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them 18
(Revelation 14:13). All spiritual blessings are "in Christ." How Does One Get In Christ? Since all spiritual blessings are in Christ, and one must be in Christ in order to enjoy them it is then important that we learn how one becomes in Christ. Paul answers that question for us. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ (Galatians 3:27). Again, to the Romans: Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (Romans 6:3.) Jesus had already given great comfort to those who would eventually commit their lives totally to him by submission in complete obedience. Categorically, the teaching of Jesus in the parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-15) labeled those in Christ as having "honest and good hearts" and bringing forth fruit to his name's honor and glory. One then, gets in Christ by their obedient faith and the culminating act of baptism for the remission of sins.
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LESSON 6 IDENTIFICATION OF THE ONE CHURCH Paul and others, including Jesus, taught concerning the church and the oneness of that institution. In order to be assured of being in agreement with the Lord, it is essential that we be able to identify the church as revealed in the scriptures. Officers At the very beginning of his letter to the Philippians, Paul addresses the "bishops and deacons," thus introducing the officers and servants of the church. (A perusal of the New Testament will reveal what others refer to now that label this group of men.) You will discover the relationship of each with a consideration of the context in which the name is used. In addition to bishops they are referred to as pastors, (Ephesians 4:11); presbyters, (I Timothy 4:14); elders, (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5); overseers (Acts 20:28); shepherds, (I Peter 5:4); and, rulers, (I Timothy 5:17). And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some pastors and teachers (Ephesians 4:11). Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery (I Timothy 4:14). And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed. (Acts 14:23). For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee (Titus 1:5). Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood (Acts 20:28). And when the chief Shepherd shall Appear, ye shall receive a crown of Glory that fadeth not away (I Peter 5:4). 20
Let the elders that rule well be Counted worthy of double honour, Especially they who labour in the word And doctrine (I Timothy 5:17). It will be observed that each time either of these designations are used in connection with the church, they are always used in the plural, never the singular. Thus, there must be a plurality of elders or bishops over the church. Never do the scriptures authorize the use of "a pastor" or "a bishop." These church officers must meet certain qualifications or requirements in order to be worthy candidates for the office. Paul enumerates these qualifications in I Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. Deacons, too, must meet certain prerequisites to qualify for this important work. (I Timothy 3:8-13.) This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride fall into the condemnation of the devil. moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil (I Timothy 3:1-7). If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to filthy lucre; But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers (Titus 1:6-9). Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, 21
not greedy of filthy lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses Well. For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus (I Timothy 3:8-13). Name The one church of the New Testament is designated in different ways. Paul in I Timothy 3:15, refers to it as the "House of God, which is the church of the living God," to identify it as a family belonging to God. Paul addresses the first epistle to the Corinthians by using the expression, "Unto the church of God which is at Corinth," to designate and establish ownership. Jesus, speaking to Peter with the other apostles, said: "upon this rock I will build my church," denoting the church to be his. Paul, in writing to the Romans, states: Salute one another with an holy kiss, the churches of Christ salute you (Romans 16:16). Thus, more than one name is used referring to the New Testament church to indicate its relationship to God and Christ. Christ has, as head of the church, (Ephesians 1:22-23) all authority (Matthew 28:18) and will at the resurrection day deliver the church back to God relinquishing all authority and rule. (I Corinthians 15:24.) Thus, in this era and for the above reasons the church is designated "the Church of Christ." And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church. Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all (Ephesians 1:22-23). And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth (Matthew 28:18). Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power (I Corinthians 15:24). 22
LESSON 7 ACTS OF WORSHIP Although some may designate themselves as the New Testament church and use a scriptural indicator, it does not necessarily hold that they are indeed the true church of the Bible. To more accurately identify the church there are specific acts of worship visibly recognizable. The early church was said by Luke to: continue steadfastly in the apostles doctrine (teaching) in fellowship, in breaking of bread and in prayers (Acts 2:42). Looking closely at this verse, we find the worship participated in by the church of Paul's day. We are to follow their apostolic example today. Lord's Supper As to the day on which we observe the Lord’s Supper, we have but one example. We have no commandment as to the day to partake of it. The disciples at Troas met on the first day of the week to break bread---take the Lord’s Supper. And the disciples came together on the first day of the week to break bread (Acts 20:7). They met on the first day of the week for that purpose. Why did they do so? Obviously, they were taught to do so. We do not know who converted them and taught them how to worship God, but it is obvious that some one did. Next, why did their teacher tell them to take the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week? Was it his own idea? We know the Christians at Corinth met together to take the supper. When ye come together therefore into one Place, this is not to eat the Lord’s supper. For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken. What? Have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I praise you not (1 Corinthians 11:20-22). They were also to make their contributions on the first day of the week. This is a good inference that they assembled on that day to take the Lord’s Supper. Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of 23
Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). But, where did the teacher of the Christians at Troas learn that Christians are to take the supper on the first day of the week? He either got his information from the apostles directly, or he learned it from one who had been taught by the apostles. But, where did the apostles get the idea that Christians were to take the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week? And, why did the apostles teach people to do so? They got the directive from the Lord Jesus who told them to teach the baptized people to observe all things he commanded (Matthew 28:18-20). So, the Christians at Troas took the supper on the first day of the week because they were taught by the apostles to do so; and the apostles taught them to take the supper on that day because their Lord commanded them so to teach. We conclude, then, that taking the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week is obeying a commandment of the Lord. We can take the supper on that day by the authority of Jesus Christ, but, we cannot take it on any other day by the authority of Christ. To the Corinthians Paul gave instructions in I Corinthians 11:23-29. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the Same night in which he was betrayed took Bread: And when he had given thanks, he Brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, Which is broken for you: this do in remembrance Of me. After the same manner also he took the Cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is The new testament in my blood: this do ye, as Oft as ye drink it, in rememberance of me. For As often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup,. Ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come. Where Fore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink This cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty Of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man Examine himself, and so let him eat of that Bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eatheth and drinketh unworthily, eatheth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. Please, observe that these instructions included the reason for participating in this feast which included a remembering as well as a looking forward to Christ’s return. The wise discerner of truth realizes the Lord's Supper is a memorial of the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord. Simply remembered and accessible anywhere, the Lord's Supper is comprised of two elements: namely, the unleavened bread, which Jesus said was his body, and the fruit of the vine, which he said was his blood shed on the cross for the remission of sins. 24
Prayer A part of all worship was prayer. Paul encouraged the Thessalonians: Pray without ceasing (I Thessalonians 5:17). To the Ephesian church the same apostle wrote: Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 5:20). Our prayers (supplications) are to be addressed to God the Father through Jesus Christ, His son. Singing Although not specifically mentioned by name in Acts 2:42, singing is, however, taught by the apostles. Paul wrote: Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord (Ephesians 5:19). Again in his letter to the Colossians, he wrote: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord (Colossians 3:16). Other passages include Hebrews 2:12; I Corinthians 14:15; Matthew 26:30; Acts 16:25. Each express singing to be the music used in worship of early Christians. Saying, I will declare thy name unto My brethren, in the midst of the church Will I sing praise unto thee (Hebrews 2:12). What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, And I will pray with the understanding Also; I will sing with the spirit, and I will Sing with the understanding also (I Corinthians 14:15). 25
And when they had sung an hymn, they Went out into the mount of Olives (Matthew 26:30). And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, And sang praises unto God: and the Prisoners heard them (Acts 16:25). The absence of any mention of the use of mechanical instruments of music in the New Testament worship indicates singing (vocal music) to be the only authorized, God approved form of music in Christian worship to Christ and God permissible today. Giving Jesus taught, according to Paul: It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). The teaching of the New Testament church is that there is to be a free will offering taken to support the preaching and spread of the gospel. This offering is to be taken on the first day of the week. Paul exhorted: Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gathering when I come (I Corinthians 16:2). Again, instructing the Corinthians as to the manner of their giving, Paul wrote: Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver (II Corinthians 9:7). Preaching and Teaching Paul's instruction to Timothy was: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine (II Timothy 4:2). This is to be done when it is convenient and when it is not convenient; when others agree and when others do not agree. The church is to be edified and built up, and those outside of Christ are to be instructed and led to obedient faith. This is done by faithful and diligent preaching and teaching the truth, the word of God. 26
LESSON 8 AFTER BAPTISM WHAT? Appropriately enough, the Bible teaches us that after a person obeys the gospel and is baptized into Christ, they become new creatures or all things become new. After becoming a new creature the life of the Christian begins. Revealing the words of Jesus, John the revelator wrote: Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life (Revelation 2:10). Jesus had instructed his disciples: And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved (Matthew 10:22). The responsibility of one to be watchful of their Christian life was expressed by the apostle Paul: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway (I Corinthians 9:27). In stressing the likelihood that one would follow the example of Adam and Eve in ones sin, Paul warned: But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him (II Corinthians 11:3-4). Paul also expressed disappointment in and concern for the Galatians when he wrote: I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; 27
but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed (Galatians 1:6-9). The Hebrews writer suggested: For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned (Hebrews 6:4-8). Peter used the hog and the dog to illustrate: For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb. The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire (II Peter 2:20-22). 28
In order to encourage endurance Paul comments: There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it (I Corinthians 10:13). Peter also states: As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby (I Peter 2:2). In addition, we are to encourage one another: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching (Hebrews 10:25). Jesus assures: Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you (John 15:16). What glorious hope and assurance!
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