Studying Mark's Gospel: The Son of Man Arrested, Part 1 (Mark 14:1-42)

Lesson Nineteen: The Son of Man Arrested, Part 1 (Mark 14:1-42)

 

LAST WEEK IN REVIEW

 

Mark 13 was an account of what is called the Olivet Discourse, Jesus’ prophetic words about both the coming destruction of Jerusalem by the Romans (a.d. 70) and the future return of the Son of Man. The events of Jerusalem’s destruction, as horrifying and disturbing as they were (see Josephus’ account as mentioned in Lesson 18), are but a foreshadowing of the horrible times that await mankind during the Great Tribulation—so terrible that unless they were cut short (literally, amputated) no one would remain alive! We also read of how God will work through all of this to finally help the Jews to come to realize that Jesus is the Son of Man and Son of God. In any discussion of last days’ events, we must be careful to avoid sensationalism and emphasis on the evil of the Antichrist and his forces; we tend to be so busy looking for the Antichrist that we forget we’re to be looking for Jesus Christ! He is the true focus of the Book of Revelation, as He is in our studies here in Mark’s Gospel, which now turns toward simultaneously the most wicked and most holy ground we’ve come to: the suffering, death, and resurrection of the Son of God.

  

DAY ONE: Preparation for Suffering

 

Please carefully read Mark 14:1-9 and answer the following questions.

 

1.  What did the religious leaders discuss about Jesus just before the Passover (vv. 1, 2)?

 

NOTES: In Greek, the phrase "sought how they might take Him by trickery" is in the imperfect tense, meaning they kept seeking after a way to bait Him, and use guile and deceit to see Him put to death.

 

2.  Exactly when the event described in Bethany took place is somewhat debatable; Mark seems to indicate it took place on Wednesday, but John’s Gospel puts it six days before the Passover. It is likely that Mark put this story here for emphasis, and the time mentioned in verses 1, 2 refers to the meeting of the religious leaders, but not to this story.[ii] Regardless, this is a fascinating story. Describe the event in verses 3–6 in your own words.

 

3.  These great men of God totally missed the point: The woman’s extravagant giving was a sacrifice of love and worship for her Lord. How did Jesus rebuke the men and honor the woman instead (vv. 7–9)?

 

NOTE: This woman’s action was extreme. The oil is stated to be worth a year’s income; a laborer’s daily wage was a denarius, and here 300 denarii were poured out in useless extravagance, or so thought the disciples. They murmured against the woman, Greek embrimaomai, meaning “to be very angry, sternly, to charge.” The verb in the imperfect tense, as it is here, is used elsewhere of the snorting of horses![iii] Mary, who is identified in John’s Gospel, gave lavishly, lovingly, unashamedly to honor Jesus. If she was Mary the sister of Martha and Lazarus, then we see her always at the feet of Jesus, and she was probably more in tune with the predictions that Jesus made regarding His death than even the disciples![iv]

 

4.   Read John’s account of this event (John 12:1-11) and record some of the other significant things we learn about this wonderful story.

 

Scripture Memory:  This week we will be memorizing Mark 14:38. Review the passage several times throughout the day each day this week, and by the end of the week, you should have it memorized completely.

 

“Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Mark 14:38, nkjv)

 

DAY TWO: The Passover Plot

 

Please carefully read Mark 14:10-20 and answer the following questions.

 

1.  Many years ago a book entitled The Passover Plot was published, which tried to discredit Jesus’ death and resurrection as part of a plot between Him and the disciples. Yet what sadly was the true Passover plot, and who did it involve (vv. 10, 11)?

2.  In what unusual way did the disciples find the right place to hold their Passover celebration (vv. 12–16)?

 

NOTE: The Teacher could be translated “our teacher.” The expression my guest room (literal translation of the Greek) is somewhat unusual; it could mean “the one I have arranged for” or “the one divinely appointed for me.” It wouldn’t be difficult to locate a man carrying a jar of water because women usually performed this task. It is possible that this man was John Mark’s father, and possibly Jesus ate the Passover in an upper room in John Mark’s home; but we have no concrete evidence that confirms this. We do know that John Mark’s home was a center for Christian fellowship in Jerusalem (see Acts 12:12).[vi] This possibility will come into play again in Lesson 20.

 

3.  What shocking announcement did Jesus make, and what was the reaction of the disciples (vv. 17–20)?

 

4.  How did John later fill in more details of this announcement about the betrayer, and the dramatic conclusion (John 13:21-30)?

 

Scripture Memory:  Try to fill in the missing words in the blanks below, by memory if at all possible, and then review the passage several times today.

 

“Watch and__________________, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is ___________________________, but the _________________ is weak” (Mark 14:38, nkjv)

 

DAY THREE: The New Covenant

 

Please carefully read Mark 14:21-31 and answer the following questions.

 

Sidelight: The Passover/Feast of Unleavened Bread

It is important to understand the Passover so we can grasp the significance of all that took place that night. The original Passover feast consisted of roasted lamb, unleavened bread, and a dish of bitter herbs (Exodus 12:8-20). The lamb reminded the Jews of the blood applied to their doorposts in Egypt, which kept the angel of death from slaying their firstborn. The bread reminded them of their haste in leaving Egypt (Exodus 12:39), and bitter herbs spoke of their suffering under Pharaoh. Later on, the Jews added the drinking of four cups of wine diluted with water. This was Jesus’ last Passover, and He would fulfill the Passover by dying on the cross as the spotless Lamb of God! The killing of the Passover lamb took place near the end of Nisan 14, which was Thursday afternoon. The Passover meal was eaten at the beginning of Nisan 15, or between sunset and midnight Thursday evening. This was followed immediately by the feast of Unleavened Bread, celebrated Nisan 15–21. It was customary to recline on dining couches during a festive meal; in fact, it was a first-century requirement for the Passover meal, even for the poorest people.[vii] 

 

1.  What horrifying words did Jesus have regarding the one who would betray Him on that sacred night (v. 21)?

 

2.  Having gotten rid of the betrayer, Judas (John’s Gospel tells us he left at this point), Jesus proceeds with something remarkable we celebrate to this day. What unique thing did He do in verses 21–25? What did Paul later say about this in his instructions to the church in this celebration (1 Corinthians 11:23-28)?

 

3.  Jesus came to establish a New Testament, as the kjv puts it, better translated as a New Covenant, not attainable by any other means than His death on the cross for us. The Scriptures affirm the Church age believer to be intimately involved in the New Covenant, but in no way does this involvement limit its ultimate and complete fulfillment with Israel. Jesus, by instituting the Lord’s Table, introduced the New Covenant; the apostle Paul became a minister of the New Covenant (2 Corinthians 3:6); the author of Hebrews pictures the Church being under a new and better covenant (Hebrews 7:22; Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:15, etc.). Under the New Covenant, the spiritual blessings enjoyed by the Church include forgiven sin, a personal relationship with God, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit; and the internalization of the Word and Laws of God.[viii] How did Jeremiah prophesy of this New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34)?

 

NOTE: This conveys the idea that the covenants of Old and New Testaments are not mutual agreements between equals but rather are compacts, the terms of which are dictated by God and not man, in much the same way as are the terms of a will.[ix]

 

4.  They had sung a hymn together. After the meal, it was customary to sing psalms from the Hallel, which consisted of Psalms 113–118. The walk to the Mount of Olives took at least fifteen minutes. During that walk, what shocking news did Jesus have for His men, especially for the Rock, Peter (vv. 26–31)?

 

NOTES: In verse 27, Jesus quoted from Zechariah 13:7. Jesus’ words to Peter were no doubt crushing for both of them. Peter’s boast, which no doubt he truly meant at the time, turned into prophecy of a great downfall. The language Jesus used indicated that Peter word deny Him, not just once, but many times over.[xi] The cockcrow was a proverbial expression for early morning before sunrise; only Mark mentioned the rooster crowing twice, a detail probably due to Peter’s clear recollection of the incident as he shared it with him.[xii]

 

Scripture Memory:  Try to fill in the missing words in the blanks below, by memory if at all possible, and then review the passage several times today.

 

“Watch and__________________, lest you _____________________ into temptation. The spirit indeed is ___________________________, but the _________________ is ____________________” (Mark 14:38, nkjv)

 

DAY FOUR: Jesus’ Gethsemane

 

Please carefully read Mark 14:32-36 and answer the following questions.

 

1.  They now had arrived at the garden of Gethsemane (its name means “oil or olive press”). What did Jesus do upon arriving, and what suddenly began to happen to the Son of Man (vv. 32, 33)?

 

NOTE:  Gethsemane was named for an olive press located there, perhaps in a cave since the cool underground temperatures would have been preferable for pressing olives. It was a garden that was situated at the foot of the Mount of Olives. Tradition identifies a grotto near the so-called Tomb of the Virgin as Gethsemane. This grotto was under the care of the Franciscans, and across the road from it is a garden with some ancient olive trees. Between 1919 and 1924 the Church of All Nations was built here, within which is the traditional Rock of the Agony. The actual garden of Gethsemane was probably somewhere near these shrines, but there is no certainty. For example, although it is possible for olive trees to live for more than two thousand years, Josephus reports that in the siege of Jerusalem under Titus (a.d. 70) all the trees within the circumference of twelve miles were cut down.[xiii] In this beautiful spot, Jesus suffered in ways we can never understand, and He chose to go ahead and purchase our redemption. Peter, James and John alone were chosen by Jesus to go with Him and witness His spiritual battle; as John Phillips well said, these three had witnessed Jesus’ greatness in resurrecting Jairus’ daughter, His glory on the Mount of Transfiguration, and now His grief in the garden.[xiv]

 

2.  Jesus began to be troubled and deeply distressed. He was overwhelmed with sorrow, but His first feeling was one of terror; an overpowering mental distress was followed by great shock. Troubled means “to throw into amazement or terror, to alarm thoroughly, to terrify and to be struck with terror.” Deeply distressed comes from a word which means “uncomfortable, describing an experience of which one is not familiar, in which one does not feel at home, that is, at rest, and which distresses him.” In verse 34, Jesus said He was exceedingly sorrowful, meaning He was encompassed with grief. Grief enveloped Him, surrounded Him, and saturated His consciousness.[xv] In this hour He truly needed company. What did Jesus ask of the three with Him, and what was His difficult prayer (vv. 35, 36)?

 

3.  Homer Kent Jr. well said, “The anguish of Gethsemane occurred on that last evening, where men are given a glimpse of the awesome spiritual battle that our redemption required.... The full depth of meaning of this prayer has never been plumbed by man.”[xvi] Read Luke 22:39-44 and record the physical toll this took on Jesus during the intensity of this battle.

 

4.  Why did Jesus have to face this? It is because just as we must do, He had to choose to obey and submit to the Father’s will. How did the author of Hebrews describe this (Hebrews 5:5-9)? How did Isaiah describe the sufferings that the Messiah would undergo in order to bring us all to salvation (Isaiah 53:1-6)? 

 

Scripture Memory:  Try to fill in the missing words in the blanks below, by memory if at all possible, and then review the passage several times today.

 

“______________________ and__________________, lest you _____________________ into temptation. The ______________________ indeed is ___________________________, but the _________________ is ____________________” (Mark 14:38, nkjv)

 

DAY FIVE: The Betrayer is at Hand

 

Please carefully read Mark 14:37-42 and answer the following questions.

 

1.  During Jesus’ intense prayer, He returned to gain support from His men. What did He find and how did He redirect them (vv. 37, 38)?

2.  Jesus went again to pray and returned a second time. How does Mark record the disciples’ humiliation at being found asleep again (v. 40)?

3.  Jesus returned to them again the third time (keep that idea of the third time in the back of your mind for Lesson 20). What did He find, and what did He say, then lead the men to do, rather than rebuking them (vv. 41, 42)?

4.  We must learn the importance of the message that Jesus had for His men that they needed to stay alert and on guard spiritually, for though our spiritual man is willing and wants to follow and serve Him, our flesh is weak, frail, and corrupted. What did Paul warn about our fleshly nature in Romans 7:5-18? What must we do to allow our new man in Christ to be dominant in our lives rather than the flesh (Ephesians 6:10-13; Colossians 3:5-7)?

 

Scripture Memory:  Can you write out this week’s passage by memory here below? Give it a try, and keep reviewing the passage several times throughout the day.

 

Mark 14:38:

 

 

DAY SIX: Following Christ

 

1.  This lesson covered primarily one day of the Passion Week, Thursday. Before this, however, Mark recorded the story of Mary or another woman who gave extravagantly to minister to our Lord before His crucifixion. We can choose to be like this woman in freely giving all for Jesus so that His name will be lifted up, or to be like His disciples, disgruntled and blinded by their religious, even legalistic, attitude. Giving cannot be like this for the believer. That is why Paul said, “He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8, nkjv). Think about the following words by Oswald Chambers and then record some ways you can improve what you do, as Mary did what she could in view of all that Jesus has done for you!

If human love does not carry a man beyond himself, it is not love. If love is always discreet, always wise, always sensible and calculating, never carried beyond itself, it is not love at all. It may be affection, it may be warmth of feeling, but it has not the true nature of love in it. 

 

Have I ever been carried away to do something for God not because it was my duty, nor because it was useful, nor because there was anything in it at all beyond the fact that I love Him? Have I ever realized that I can bring to God things which are of value to Him, or am I mooning round the magnitude of His Redemption whilst there are any number of things I might be doing? Not Divine, colossal things which could be recorded as marvelous, but ordinary, simple human things which will give evidence to God that I am abandoned to Him? Have I ever produced in the heart of the Lord Jesus what Mary of Bethany produced?

 

There are times when it seems as if God watches to see if we will give Him the abandoned tokens of how genuinely we do love Him. Abandon to God is of more value than personal holiness. Personal holiness focuses the eye on our own whiteness; we are greatly concerned about the way we walk and talk and look, fearful lest we offend Him. Perfect love casts out all that when once we are abandoned to God. We have to get rid of this notion—‘Am I of any use?’ and make up our minds that we are not, and we may be near the truth. It is never a question of being of use, but of being of value to God Himself. When we are abandoned to God, He works through us all the time.[xvii]

 2.  Jesus didn’t say that the elements of communion literally were or become His body and blood. Jesus spoke of literal things, but the relationship between them was expressed figuratively. The verb is means “represents.” Jesus was physically present as He spoke these words, so the disciples did not literally eat His body or drink His blood! This demonstrates the incorrectness of the Roman Catholic view of the Eucharist (transubstantiation), that the bread and wine are changed into Christ’s body and blood.[xviii] Yet are we sometimes guilty of minimizing or treating trivially the celebration of the Lord’s Table because we don’t truly realize how sacred these symbols are, reflecting all that was done for us? What Jesus did for us is our life, our hope, and the joy we experience because of His tremendous sacrifice. Think about some ways that you can make your own times of remembering all that Christ has done for you more meaningful, especially when you come to the communion table, and after reading these words by Travis Tamerias, record some ways you will do so:

The Lord’s Supper is not a funeral. Christ is not dead. Our mood is not one of unrelieved sorrow. As Christians, we look at the Crucifixion through the window of the Resurrection. Christ has conquered sin and Satan. He has defeated death and hell. When we sing together and share in this meal, we savor the taste of his victory over evil. By eating the bread and drinking the wine that our Lord has given us, our faith in God is nourished and our relationship with Christ is strengthened. In this memorial meal, we act out a dramatized prayer wherein we call upon God to remember his covenant with his people (Luke 22:19; 1 Corinthians 11:24-25).[xix]

3.  One of the reasons that Mark wrote his Gospel was to minister to his Roman readers in the suffering they faced. The theme of abandonment and solitary suffering is dominant in this section. “Jesus was abandoned by denial (Peter, vv. 66–72), indifference (Peter, James, and John in Gethsemane, vv. 37–41), betrayal (Judas, vv. 42–45), and fleeing (the Twelve and the young man, vv. 50–52). Such examples serve as encouragement and warning for readers/hearers who have sometimes abandoned Jesus or are tempted to do so in persecution.”[xx] What a blessing it is to know that:

Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted , He is able to aid those who are tempted.... Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 2:17-18; Hebrews 4:14-16, nkjv)

What difficulties and trials are you facing? Are you enduring a time of great temptation and testing? Worst of all, are you facing this all alone, or have you even been abandoned by others you cared for? Jesus knows all this, and has been where you are and far worse. Why don’t you record some of the difficulties you are facing here, and then commit them to the Lord in prayer? Also, there are others who care about you, especially right in your group. Why don’t you let them pray for and encourage you, so they can be there for you in this time, not like the disciples who fell asleep at the wheel? Record your thoughts here.

 

4.  Finally, is there something else that the Lord ministered to you through this week in Mark 14:1-42? If so, please record it here so you can share it with your group.

Teach Us to Pray" - Part 2

"Teach Us to Pray" - Part 2

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Introduction:
This lesson continues our study of Bible principles regarding prayer. We encourage you to review the last lesson before beginning this one.

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III. Can Prayer Really Change the Future?

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Are the benefits of prayer just psychological, or does God respond to prayer by changing the course of history?

A. Promises that God Will Answer

Consider what these passages say about God's response to prayer.
>>> Please read 1 John 5:14,15. <<<
*1* What confidence can we have when we pray? Answer: God hears us so we ______ what we asked for.
>>> Please read 1 John 3:22. <<<
*2* What happens when we pray? (a) God ignores us, (b) God gives what we asked for, (c) God doesn't hear us, (d) God is unable to answer. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read James 5:16. <<<
*3* A righteous man's prayer accomplishes what? (a) It is powerful and accomplishes much, (b) It is ignored, (c) It just makes us feel better, (d) the Bible does not say. Answer: ______.
If we meet God's conditions, He has promised to answer our prayers according to what is good for us in harmony with His will.
(Matt. 7:7-11; Mark 11:24; John 14:13,14; 15:7,16; 16:23,24,26; James 1:5,6; Luke 18:1-8; 1 Peter 3:12; 5:7; Matt. 6:6,8; Psalm 55:22; 86:7; 28:6)

B. Bible Examples of Answered Prayers

Many Bible examples show God's response to prayers of His people. God does not do miracles today (1 Cor. 13:8-10), but He is able to control events according to natural law so as to answer prayer without miracles. We will focus on cases of this nature.
>>> Please read 1 Samuel 1:10-20,26-28.<<<
*4* What did Hannah receive because she prayed? Answer: Hannah received a ______.
>>> Please read 2 Chronicles 7:11-14. <<<
*5&6* What did God promise to do if His people would pray? Answer: He would ______ their sin and ______ their land.
>>> Please read 2 King 20:1-7. <<<
*7* What happened because Hezekiah prayed? Answer: Hezekiah lived (give a number) ______ years longer than he would have lived.
(Cf. Ex. 32:9-14; 1 Sam.; 7:5-11; 2 Kings 19:15-37; 2 Chron. 33:10-13; Neh. 1:4-2:8; Psalm 32:5-7.)

C. Some Conclusions about Answers to Prayers

God does act in response to prayer.

Some people claim that, if God does not do miracles, then He must not answer prayer. Others see only psychological benefits in prayer. Even though we pray Scripturally, they claim God does not actually intervene in the course of earthly events to bring about what we requested. But God did act in the above examples. Consider further:
>>> Please read Matthew 18:19. <<<
*8* What does God promise when people join in prayer? (a) the Father will do what was asked, (b) nothing, (c) the people feel better. Answer: ______.
Think: If the only benefits of prayer are psychological, couldn't the same effect be produced if a person prayed with sincere faith to an idol? Note James 5:16; 1 John 3:22; Prov. 15:8,29. (Cf. John 14:13,14; 15:7.)
The Bible promises that God Himself acts in response to our prayers, acting by means of natural law.

However, we must also work, to the extent of our ability, to achieve what we requested.

God does act in response to Scriptural prayers, but He will not act if we are not willing to do our part. In the Scriptures below what we should pray for is compared to what we should work for.
>>> Please read Matthew 6:11; 2 Thess. 3:10.<<<
*9* What should we pray and work for? Answer: We should pray for our ______, but we should also work for it.
>>> Please read James 1:5; 2 Timothy 3:15-17.<<<
*10* We should pray for wisdom, but where is wisdom found? Answer: The ______ are able to make us wise to salvation.
>>> Please read Matthew 9:36-38; 2 Timothy 2:2.<<<
*11* What should we pray and work for? (a) popularity, (b) wealth, (c) a new car, (d) God's word to be taught. Answer: ______.
If we pray for needs to be met, we must do what we can to bring about what we requested. God may then bless our work and use it to accomplish good that may not have been accomplished had we not prayed.

God gives, not necessarily what we want, but what is best for everyone involved.

God may give something different from what people asked for.
>>> Please read Matthew 26:36-46; cf. Luke 22:43.<<<
*12* Instead of avoiding death, what did Jesus receive? Answer: An ______ from heaven strengthened Him.
>>> Please read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10.<<<
*13* Why wasn't Paul's thorn in the flesh removed? (a) he didn't have one, (b) it kept him humble, (c) God ignored his prayer. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Matthew 7:7-11. <<<
*14* What kinds of gifts does a father give? (a) there is no limit, (b) stones, (c) serpents, (d) good gifts. Answer: ______.
(Psalm 34:10; Rom. 8:28; James 1:17; Matt. 6:8)
If we do not receive exactly what we asked for, this does not mean God did not answer. God knows what is best, so we ought to pray for God's will to be done. He can then give us what we asked, something greater, or something different, according to what He knows to be best.
We may not understand how God can control the universe without miracles, yet the Bible affirms that He does. If we believe in God's power, then we must believe He is able to answer prayer, even when we cannot explain how He does it.

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IV. What Conditions Must Prayer Meet?

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God has promised to answer prayer, yet sometimes our prayers are not answered because we have not prayed properly. There are conditions we must meet in order for God to answer our prayers, just as there are conditions we must meet in order for God to forgive our sins.

A. We Must Pray in Jesus' Name (by His Mediation).

Consider these verses:

>>> Please read John 14:13,14. <<<
*15* In whose name should we pray? (a) Jesus', (b) Buddha's, (c) Mary's, (d) the Pope's. Answer: ______.
(Cf. John 15:16; 16:23,24,26; Eph. 5:20)
>>> Please read Romans 1:8. <<<
*16* Through whom did Paul thank God? (Col. 3:17) Answer: Paul thanked God through ______.
>>> Please read 1 Timothy 2:5. <<<<
*17&18* How many mediators are there, and who is He? Answer: There is (give a number) ______ mediator(s) and that is ______.
Note: The immediate context here refers to salvation, but the broader context refers to prayer (see v1,2,8). Jesus mediates in prayer because He mediates in salvation. He is our High Priest (Heb. 4:14-16).
Think: Should we pray to God through Mary or a dead "saint"? Did they redeem us by their death? Can they mediate prayer?

What does it mean to pray "in Jesus' name"?

A person's name stands for the person and all that He is. God's name is "hallowed" because God Himself is hallowed (Matt. 6:9). More specifically, a person's name represents his will and authority.
Think: Why do you sign your name to a check or legal document? What is meant when a police officer says, "Halt in the name of the law"?
We pray "through Jesus" because His authority enables us to be heard. Because of sin, we could never approach God without Jesus. We need a "go-between" to reconcile us to God, so we can communicate with Him. Because Jesus died as our sacrifice, He is the only one who can authorize us to approach God in prayer.
To pray in Jesus' name means we are appealing to His authority as the one mediator between us and God. We are trusting His power to make it possible for God to hear our prayer.

B. We Must Pray According to God's Will.

>>> Please read 1 John 5:14,15; Matthew 26:39.<<<
*19* Whose will should be done as result of prayer? (a) our own will, (b) the will of our loved ones, (c) God's will, (d) the will of the church leaders. Answer: ______.
Consider what this means.

In things essential to salvation, God's will is revealed in the Scriptures.

We must never pray for things that contradict God's revealed will.
>>> Please read James 4:3. <<<
*20* Why did God not answer these people's requests? (a) they were the wrong race, (b) they were poor, (c) they prayed to please themselves. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38 .<<<
*21* What must unbaptized sinners do to be forgiven? (a) believe, (b) repent, (c) be baptized, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
Think: Would it be proper for us to pray for God to save people without faith, without repentance, or without baptism?
Nowhere does the gospel tell an unbaptized person to pray for forgiveness. Such a prayer is not according to God's will.

(Note: If you would like more information about whether or not an alien sinner may pray for forgiveness of sins, please see the links at the end of this lesson.)

(Think of other prayers that would contradict God's revealed will.)

In things not essential to salvation, God's will may not be expressly revealed.

Many events of life are not matters of right or wrong, so we may not know God's expressed will. For example, we know God allows suffering and death, so in a particular instance of illness we may not know whether God would be willing for the person to get better or not (2 Cor. 12:7-10).
In these cases we pray for what we believe to be best, then ask God to do what He knows to be best. Then by faith we accept the outcome.

C. We Must Pray with Understanding, Sincerity, and Humility.

>>> Please read 1 Corinthians 14:15. <<<
*22&23* How does this verse say we should pray? Answer: We pray with the ______ and with the ______.
Think: What can you do to help make sure you understand and mean what you pray?
>>> Please read Matthew 6:5,7. <<<
*24* Why are some folks' prayers wrong? (a) they pray to be seen by men, (b) they offer vain repetitions, (c) either of the preceding. Answer: ______.
Think of some examples of vain repetition. What can we learn about groups that require members to say a certain memorized prayer a certain number of times? However, is it always wrong to repeat a request in prayer? (Study Matt. 26:36-46; 2 Cor. 12:7-10; Luke 18:1-7.)
Prayer must never become a mere formality or outward ritual that we go through without meaning what we do or simply to impress other people. We must pray fervently from the heart.
(1 Sam. 1:10,15; Luke 22:44; Mark 12:40; 1 Cor. 14:15; Psalm 17:1; 145:18; James 5:16,17)
>>> Please read Luke 18:9-14. <<<
*25&26* Who was humble in prayer, and who exalted himself? Answer: The ______ was proud; the ______ was humble.
Our attitudes and speech in prayer should be respectful, exalting God's greatness while recognizing our weaknesses, sins, and human frailty. (2 Chron. 7:14; 33:10-13; Gen. 18:27)

D. We Must Pray in Faith.

>>> Please read James 1:5-8. <<<
*27* What happens if we doubt instead of having faith? (a) we receive nothing, (b) God is pleased, (c) we receive wisdom. Answer: ______.
As already discussed, God has expressly revealed that He wants to give some things, such as forgiveness to a penitent child of God. Faith requires us to believe He will give what He has promised. For other things He may not have revealed what He will give (such as good health); so we pray, "Thy will be done." Then we must believe He will do what is best.
Praying in faith also requires us to accept what God sends. Too often, when we do not receive exactly what we asked for, we complain or think God broke His promise. Faith requires us to believe He will give the best thing at the best time, and then believe that the result is what is best.

E. We Must Pray with Repentance for Sin.

>>> Please read Acts 8:21-23. <<<
*28&29* What was Simon told to do to be forgiven? Answer: He was told to ______ and ______ to God for forgiveness.
>>> Please read Luke 18:13,14. <<<
*30* What happened because the publican admitted his sins? Answer: The publican went down to his house ______ before God.
Forgiveness is not granted to those who persist in sin, excuse it, rationalize it, overlook it, or hide it. To receive forgiveness when we pray, we must be truly sorry for sin and determine to overcome it.
(2 Chron. 7:14; Psalm 32:5-7; James 5:16; 1 Kings 8:33-36,46-53)

F. We Must Pray with Forgiveness for Others.

>>> Please read Matthew 6:12,14,15. <<<
*31* What must we do in order for God to forgive our sins? (a) pay a fee, (b) forgive others, (c) deny our guilt, (d) blame others for our sins. Answer: ______.
To have a right relationship with God we must pursue right relationships with people. Have others apologized to you requesting your forgiveness, yet you continue to hold a grudge? Do you seek revenge, wishing harm to come to those who have wronged you, unwilling to pursue peace and harmony? (Mark 11:25; Matt. 18:21-35)
To receive God's forgiveness when we pray, we must have the same attitude toward others that we expect Him to have toward us!

G. We Must Pray While Living a Faithful Life.

Consider how our manner of life relates to God's answer to prayer.
>>> Please read James 5:16. <<<
*32* Whose prayer is effective? (a) everybody's, (b) nobody's, (c) a righteous man's, (d) a rich man's. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read 1 John 3:21,22. <<<
*33* What must we do for God to answer our prayers? Answer: We must keep His ______.
>>> Please read Proverbs 28:9. <<<
*34* What is true of the prayer of one who turns away from the law? Answer: His prayer is an ______.
God heard the prayer of Cornelius before he was baptized (Acts 10:4,31), but what did Cornelius receive as a result? God gave him an opportunity to learn the truth. Beyond that, there is nothing God has promised to give alien sinners in answer to prayer.
But God likewise rejects the prayer of the impenitent child of God. Too many people want to live their lives for themselves, then go running to God in time of need. They expect Him to serve them despite the fact they refuse to serve Him! God says it will not work. If you want God to hear your prayers, first repent of your sins and live in obedience to Him.
(Isaiah 59:1,2; Psalm 66:18; 34:15-19; 109:7; Prov. 15:8,29; 1:24-29; 21:13; Isaiah 1:15-17; 1 Peter 3:12; John 9:31; 15:5; Lam 3:1,8; 1 Peter 3:7)

Conclusion

God will answer prayer for you. He desires to meet your needs and offer you everything He has promised to His faithful children. But first you must become a faithful child of His by obedience to His gospel (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Rom. 10:9,10; 6:3,4; etc.). Then you must meet the conditions of prayer

Teach Us To Pray (pt1)

"Teach Us to Pray" - Part 1Following Jesus -- Course A, Lesson #4

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Introduction:
In Luke 11:1 Jesus' disciples asked, "Lord, teach us to pray." The purpose of this study is to help Christians improve their praying.
Everyone needs to learn more about prayer. People who are new in the faith may have never studied about how to pray. Some members do not pray properly, so their prayers are not even answered. Even faithful Christians can improve.
What is prayer? Note Acts 4:24,31. Prayer is simply man talking to God (Romans 10:1; Matthew 6:9ff). It is a form of communication similar in many ways to simply talking to any other person, except we must remember we are addressing God and must meet conditions of acceptable prayer.

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I. What Should We Pray About?

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What should we include in prayer? Some cannot think of much to say. Others say things that are inappropriate or even unscriptural. Some just repeat memorized phrases they have heard from others.
Let us compare Bible examples of prayer to our own prayers and see if we can improve.

A. We Should Praise God's Character and Work.

Bible prayers commonly included many descriptions of the glory and greatness of God. Jesus began the model prayer by praising God's name (Matthew 6:9). Many psalms are filled with praise.
For each passage below, we have listed some of the qualities or works of God that were praised. For each quality or work, you should list in the blank the number of the verse where it is praised. (Note: These questions are not multiple choice. We have done the first one to show you how it is done.)
>>> Please read Psalm 86:5-12. <<<
*Sample* (a) Merciful -- Verse 5 (b) Does wondrous things -- Verse 10; (c) Forgiving -- Verse 5.
>>> Please read 1 Chronicles 29:10-13.<<<
*1,2&3* (a) Reigns over all -- Verse ______; (b) Everything in heaven and earth is His -- Verse ______; (c) Gives strength to all -- Verse ______.
>>> Please read Jeremiah 32:16-22. <<<
*4,5&6* (a) Brought Israel out of Egypt -- Verse ______; (b) Made heavens and earth -- Verse ______; (c) Rewards people according to their ways -- Verse ______.
We could never list all the great qualities and works for which God deserves our praise.
Think: Would our prayers improve if, instead of thinking of more things for God to give us, we would place greater emphasis on describing His greatness?
(See also Psalm 90:1-4; Neh. 9:4-8; Gen. 18:25; 1 Sam. 2:1-10; 2 Sam. 7:22,23; 1 Kings 8:23-30; 2 Kings 19:15; Ezra 9:8,9; Neh. 1:5; Job 42:1,2; Psalm 143:1-12; 17:7; 90:7-11; 102:1,12,24-27; Matt. 6:13; Luke 2:37,38; Acts 4:24; Eph. 1:16-19; Col. 1:12-14; Rev 11:17.)

B. We Should Pray on Behalf of Others.

Bible prayers are filled with requests and thanksgiving for people other than the one offering the prayer. How often do we think to pray for others, whether or not they request our prayers?
In the passages listed below, note the various different kinds of people that other people prayed for.
>>> Please read 1 Timothy 2:1,2. <<<
*7* For whom should we pray? (a) ourselves, (b) kings or rulers, (c) the sick, (d) poor people. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read 1 Chronicles 29:19. <<<
*8* For whom did King David pray? Answer: He prayed for Solomon, who was David's ______.
>>> Please read Romans 10:1-3. <<<
*9* Why did Paul pray for Israel? Answer: Paul's prayer for Israel was that they might be ______.
>>> Please read Luke 6:27,28. <<<
*10* For whom should we pray? (a) family members, (b) people who mistreat us (enemies), (c) sick people, (d) church members. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Ephesians 6:18-20. <<<
*11* Why did Paul want Christians to pray for him? Answer: He wanted prayer so he could boldly make known the mystery of the ______.
>>> Please read Colossians 1:3,9-14. <<<
*12* For whom did Paul pray? (a) his family, (b) church elders, (c) the Christians to whom he was writing, (d) the Pope. Answer: ______.
(Cf. Ezra 6:10; 1 Chron. 29:19; Matt. 19:13-15; Gen. 25:21,22; 24:12-14; 18:23-33; 1 Sam. 1:10-12; Matt. 9:36-38; Luke 23:34; 22:31,32; Acts 7:60; Luke 23:34; Col. 4:3,4; Acts 4:25-29; 6:6; 14:23; 1 Thess. 5:25; Matt. 9:36-38; John 17:9-22; Acts 8:24; Rom. 1:9-12; Eph. 1:15-19; Phil. 1:3-11; 1 Thess. 1:2; 2 Thess. 1:11,12; 2:13; 2 Tim. 1:3; Num. 11:2; 21:7; 14:13-20; Deut. 9:18-20,25-29; Ex. 32:9-14,31,32; 1 Sam. 7:5-11.)
Surely we can pray for things we need, yet many examples involve prayer for other specific individuals or congregations. Do we show this personal concern for others in our prayers?
Note also that Paul openly told people he was praying for them. This practice would motivate us to be more diligent to pray for others and would give Christians a greater sense of love and appreciation for one another.

C. We Should Make Requests and Give Thanks.

We should pray for what we truly need, but we should also remember to thank God for what we have received.
Consider the passages below that show we can ask God to meet our needs or should thank Him for what He has given.
>>> Please read Philippians 4:6,7. <<<
*13* Instead of worrying, what should be do? (a) give thanks, (b) let our requests be made known to God, (c) both of the preceding. Answer: ______.
Note: A "supplication" is a request for needs to be "supplied."
>>> Please read Matthew 7:7-11. <<<
*14* God's answers to prayer are compared to what? Answer: They are like a father who gives good gifts to his ______.
>>> Please read Ephesians 5:20. <<<
*15* For what should we give thanks to God? Answer: We should give thanks for ______.
We should cast our cares on God, because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). Bible prayers include thanksgiving right alongside requests. God invites us to ask for what we need, but He is displeased when we are so ungrateful as to offer no thanks when the request is granted.
(Cf. 1 John 5:14,15; 3:21,22; 1 Timothy 2:1; John 14:13,14; 15:7,16; 16:23,24,26; Luke 17:12-17; 1 Thess. 5:18; Col. 4:2; 2:7; 3:17.)

D. Some Specific Things We Should Pray about

No one prayer could mention everything there is to pray about, but Bible prayers teach us many specific things to mention. We may pray about these things for ourselves or for others. We may make requests and then give thanks for God's blessings.
Each passage below identifies some things we should pray about.
>>> Please read Matthew 6:9-13. <<<
*16,17,18&19* For each specific thing we should pray about, you should list in the blank the number of the verse where it is mentioned:
(a) Forgiveness of sins -- Verse ______; (b) Our daily bread -- Verse ______; (c) God's will to be done on earth -- Verse ______; (d) Deliverance from evil -- Verse ______.
>>> Please read Acts 12:1,5,12. <<<
*20&21* For whom was the church praying and why? Answer: They prayed for ______ because he was in the ______.
>>> Please read 1 Timothy 2:1,2. <<<
*22&23* We should pray for kings and rulers for what purpose? Answer: We pray that we might lead a ______ and ______ life.
>>> Please read Psalm 141:1-3. <<<
*24* What did David pray for God to do for him? (a) guard his mouth (speech), (b) give him wisdom, (c) send him money. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Matthew 9:36-38; Colossians 4:3.<<<
*25&26* We should pray for the teaching of God's word because it needs what? Answer: Laborers for the ______ and an open _____ for God's word to be spoken.
>>> Please read John 17:20-23. <<<
*27* Jesus prayed that His disciples might be what? (a) richer than other people, (b) one as He and His Father are one, (c) a political majority, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Colossians 1:9-11. <<<
*28,29,30&31* For each specific thing we should pray about, you should list on the answer sheet the number of the verse where it is mentioned:
(a) Strength and might -- Verse ______; (b) Pleasing to God -- Verse ______; (c) Filled with knowledge -- Verse ______; (d) Fruitful in every good work -- Verse ______.
Note how Bible prayers often concerned spiritual needs and blessings. Some people seem to pray as if they are sending a "Christmas list" to Santa for all the physical things they want. Biblical prayers may concern physical needs, but very often they emphasized man's spiritual needs.
How do our prayers compare to Bible prayers? Are there areas where we need to improve?
(See also Psalm 119:169-172; 1 Kings 8:33-53; Neh. 1:8-11; Matt. 15:36; 26:26-29; 26:36-46; John 17:9-12,17; Acts 4:23-31; 8:22,24; 14:23; 20:36-38; 26:41; 27:35; 28:15; Eph. 3:14-19; 2 Cor. 1:8-11; 4:15; 12:7-10; 13:7; Phil. 1:3-6,9-11; 4:6,7; 2 Thess. 3:1,2; James 1:5,6; 5:16.)

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II. When, Where, How Long, and
How Often Should We Pray?

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Should we pray publicly, privately, in church meetings, as daily routine, or spontaneously? What posture must we use?

A. General Admonitions about Frequency and Place

Note what these passages say about where and how often people should pray.
>>> Please read Acts 2:42. <<<
*32* What expression shows how regularly the disciples prayed? (a) once a week, (b) occasionally, (c) steadfastly, (d) never. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read 1 Timothy 2:8. <<<
*33* Where should men pray? Answer: Men should pray ______.
>>> Please read 1 Thessalonians 5:17,18.<<<
*34* How diligent should we be in prayer? Answer: We should pray ______.
Think: Do these verses mean we should pray 24 hours a day, seven days a week? If so, when would we do other good works God has commanded? (Luke 11:1)
Prayer should be a regular, frequent part of our daily lives, and we should never quit or cease the practice of prayer. Further, we should never participate in any practice such that we would be ashamed to pray to God in the midst of that activity.
(See Eph. 1:16; 5:20; 6:18; Col. 1:3,9; 2:7; 3:17; 4:2,12; Luke 18:1-7; Rom. 12:12; Acts 6:4; 1:14; Phil. 1:4; 4:6; 1 Cor. 1:4; 2 Thess. 1:3,11; 2:13.)

B. Specific Examples of Frequency, Place, etc.

Note what these examples say about when and where people prayed:
>>> Please read 1 Corinthians 14:15. <<<
*35* Where did the prayer and singing in this passage occur (note vv 19,23,26)? (a) at home, (b) in the temple, (c) in church assemblies. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Matthew 6:6. <<<
*36* Where did Jesus say we should pray? Answer: We should pray in our ______.
>>> Please read Mark 1:35. <<<
*37* When and where did Jesus pray? Answer: He prayed before daybreak (in the early morning) in a ______ place.
>>> Please read Acts 27:35. <<<
*38* When did Paul pray in this example? (a) when he went to bed, (b) before a meal, (c) when he was seriously ill, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Psalm 55:16,17. <<<
*39* When did the Psalmist pray? (a) evening, (b) morning, (c) at noon, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Daniel 6:10,11. <<<
*40* How often did Daniel pray? Answer: Daniel prayed (give a number) ______ times a day.
We should pray in private but also in public worship assemblies. We should not pray to make a show before others, but we should not be ashamed to pray when others are present (cf. Acts 27:35). We should pray habitually throughout the day but also at special times when needs arise.
Do we pray like faithful people in the Bible prayed?
(See also Matt. 14:23; Deut. 9:18,25,26; 1 Kings 8:22; 2 Kings 20:1-3; Ezra 9:4,5ff; Neh. 9:1-5; Psalm 5:3; 88:1,13; Dan. 6:10,11; Matt. 15:36; 14:19; 26:36-46; Mark 1:35; Luke 6:12; 9:18; 24:30; Acts 10:9; 12:5,12; 20:36; 1 Thess. 3:9,10; 1 Tim. 5:5.)

C. Posture and Physical Conduct During Prayer

May we stand for prayer or only kneel or sit? Must we speak out loud for God to hear us? Must we fold our hands, bow our heads, and close our eyes? Notice what these Bible examples say about position.
>>> Please read Nehemiah 1:4. <<<
*41* In what position was Nehemiah when he prayed? (a) sitting, (b) standing, (c) kneeling, (d) lying down. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Luke 22:41. <<<
*42* How is Jesus' position described? (a) He stood up, (b) He sat down, (c) He knelt down. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read Mark 11:25; Luke 18:13,14.<<<
*43* These people's prayers were heard though they were in what position? (a) kneeling, (b) standing, (c) sitting, (d) lying down. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read 1 Chronicles 29:20. <<<
*44* What did these people do when they prayed? (a) lifted up their hands to God, (b) played on instruments of music, (c) bowed their heads and prostrated themselves, (d) bowed before statues of Mary. Answer: ______.
>>> Please read John 17:1. <<<
*45* What did Jesus do when He prayed? Answer: Jesus looked toward ______.
>>> Please read 1 Sam. 1:12,13. <<<
*46* What was noteworthy about Hannah's prayer? (a) she prayed to Baal, (b) she asked God for a new house, (c) she prayed once a year at Easter, (d) she did not speak out loud. Answer: ______.
Think: What can we learn from the variety in these examples? Does the position we are in determine whether or not God hears us?
(See also Gen. 24:12,13,27,48; Ex. 4:31; 12:27; 34:8,9; 1 Sam. 1:26; 2 Sam. 7:18; 1 Kings 19:4; Neh. 8:6; 9:4,5ff; Matt. 14:19; 26:39; John 11:41; Acts 9:40; 20:36; 21:5.)
(This study will be continued in our next lesson.)

How to Study the Bible -- Part 2

How to Study the Bible -- Part 2Following Jesus -- Course A, Lesson #3

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Introduction:
In this lesson we continue to learn about effective Bible study. Please review the previous lesson before beginning this lesson. We begin by considering some additional principles about Bible authority.

D. Only Divine Authority, not Human Authority, Is Acceptable in Religion.

When a practice is not included in what God has authorized, should we participate in it or not? Remember that the Scriptures provide us to every good work. What about works it does not provide? Consider:

The Bible teaching about wisdom

>>> Read Isaiah 55:8,9; Jeremiah 10:23.<<<
*1* How do God's thoughts and ways differ from ours? Answer: His thoughts and ways are ______ than ours.
*2* How limited is man's knowledge of his own ways? Answer: It is not in man who walks to direct his own ______.
Think: Can we know what God wants without revelation?
Ways that seem right to men may result in spiritual death (Proverbs 14:12). So we should not add to nor take from God's word (Rev. 22:18,19).
(Luke 16:15; 1 Cor. 1:21-24; 2:5; Deut. 4:2; 12:32; Pro. 30:6)

The Bible teaching about worship

We must worship God in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). But remember, all truth is revealed in God's word (John 17:17; 16:13).
>>> Read Matthew 15:9,13. <<<
*3* What kind of worship is vain? Answer: Worship is vain when we teach as doctrines the commandments of ______.
*4* What will happen to plants (doctrines) God did not plant? Answer: Plants God did not plant will be ______.
Think: When we follow human doctrines, do we honor God or man?

The Bible teaching about love

>>> Read Matthew 22:37; John 14:15. <<< (1 John 5:3)
*5* What does love lead us to do? Answer: If we love Jesus we keep His ______.
Think: When we follow human doctrines, are we showing love for God or for men? Does a man show love for his wife if he gets her a power tool for her birthday because he wants it? When people defend their practices by saying "I think it's beautiful," or "We're satisfied with it," who are they showing love for?

The Bible teaching about faith

We cannot please God without faith (Heb. 11:6; cf. 2 Cor. 5:7).
>>> Read Romans 10:17; Proverbs 3:5,6.<<<
*6&7* How does faith come? Answer: Faith comes by ______ the word of ______.
*8* How do we show trust in the Lord? Answer: Don't lean on our own ______ but let him direct our paths.
Think: If our practices are not in the Bible, are we placing our trust in God or in man?

The Bible teaching about authority

>>> Read 2 John 9; Galatians 1:8,9. <<<
*9&10* What must we do to have God? Answer: We must abide in the ______ of ______.
*11* What is said of a man who preaches a different gospel? Answer: One who teaches a different gospel is ______.
Remember that all Jesus' teachings are found in the Scriptures. God did not intend for His word to itemize everything we should not practice. Rather, if an act is not included in what He said to do, He expects us to not practice it. We should not ask, "Where does God forbid this act?" but rather "Where does God tell us to do this act?"
(Col. 3:17; 2:8; 1 Peter 4:11; 1 Cor. 4:6; 2 Cor. 10:18; 1 Tim. 1:3)

E. God May Teach in General or Specific Terms.

Our practices must fit the definition of God's instructions. However, we must distinguish specific language from general language.

A statement of the principle

Specific authority: We must not practice things that do not fit the meaning of God's instructions. So when He wants us to do a thing in a particular way, He instructs us by choosing words that are specific or narrow (limited, restricted, exclusive) in their meaning. If we then do things differently, outside the limits of the meaning of the terms He uses, we displease Him.
General authority: When God wants to leave men free to choose from several alternative ways of doing a thing, He instructs us with words that are general or broad (inclusive, comprehensive) in their meaning. We still must do only what fits the instruction, but we are free to choose any of the various alternatives that fit. Any such choice would be acceptable because we would still be doing what God said.

Applications of the Principle

>>> Read Genesis 6:14. <<<
*12* What material was Noah told to use to make the ark? Answer: God told Noah to make an ark of ______.
Think: Could Noah have used metal, pine, or walnut? Did God expressly say not to use them? Suppose God had simply said to make an ark and named no specific material. Could Noah then have chosen any kind of material he wanted? Suppose Noah had used an ax or saw to cut the gopher wood to "make" the ark. Would he still have been doing what God said? Are these things specifically mentioned?
>>> Read Mark 16:15. <<<
*13&14* What did Jesus tell the disciples to do here? Answer: He said to ______ into the world and preach the ______.
Think: Do we obey Jesus if we preach man-made doctrines? But would we be "preaching the gospel" if we taught the Scriptures in the following ways: speak to people, write them a letter, divide them up into groups and teach them, speak over radio or TV, write on a blackboard? Do these fit the meaning of what God said to do?
Likewise, what are some methods of transportation a person might use to "go" into all the world? Are these things specifically mentioned in the verse? If we use them would they fit God's command?
Many practices are wrong in religion, though nowhere specifically forbidden, because they do not fit what God specifically said to do. Other things are acceptable, though nowhere specifically mentioned, because they do fit general instructions in God's word.
Study the chart below for other examples.

General and Specific Authority

Instruction	Unauthorized	Authorized
Make ark of gopher wood (Gen. 6:14)	Metal Pine, walnut	Hammer and saw Pegs and glue
Go preach the gospel (Mark 16:15)	Human Doctrine	Walk, ride Speak, write, TV
Believe, repent Buried in baptism (Acts 2:36-38; Rom. 6:4)	Baby, animal Sprinkle, pour	River, lake Baptistery
Collection on first day (1 Cor. 16:1,2)	Sale, business Week day	Container Time of day
Bread, fruit of the vine First day (Matt. 26:26ff; Acts 20:7)	Milk and lamb Week day	Containers Time of day
Sing (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16)	Piano, organ	Songbook, parts

(Note: If you wish to study more about Divine authority vs. human authority in religion or about the specific topics listed in the chart above, please see the links at the end of this lesson.)

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Part III. Other Rules for Bible Study

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A. Consider Other Passages on the Same Subject.

Truth is determined by "adding up" all pertinent passages.

>>> Read Acts 3:22,23; John 17:17; 1 Corinthians 14:33. <<<
*15* How much of Jesus' teaching must we heed? (Cf. Matt. 4:4,7.) Answer: We must hear Jesus in ______ He says.
*16&17* Is God the author of confusion? Answer (yes or no): ______. Does truth contradict itself? Answer (yes or no): ______.
Think: Should we "interpret" a passage in a way that contradicts other passages? How can other passages help us in our study?
(Rev. 22:18,19; Acts 20:20,27; Matt. 28:20; 12:25,26; James 2:10)

Some applications

Think: Is the pattern of worship entirely revealed in one passage? Can we find all the steps to salvation in just one verse?
Think: What application can be made to people who take passages that teach we are saved by faith, ignore passages about baptism, and conclude we are saved by "faith only" without baptism?

B. Consider Context and Background.

"Context" means the verses surrounding the one being studied. By "background" we mean who is speaking, to whom they speak, etc. Consider why context and background are important:
Context affects word meanings: Words may have different meanings. The context shows which meaning applies.
>>> Read Acts 20:17,28. <<<
*18* Are "elders" (v17) the same or different from "overseers" or bishops (v28)? Answer: Elders are (a) the same as overseers, or (b) different from overseers. ______.
Context gives further explanation: When we are confused about a statement, other statements nearby may clarify the meaning.
>>> Read Acts 16:31-34. <<<
*19* When the jailer learned all God's will, how urgent was baptism? Answer: He was baptized the same hour of the ______.
Some people claim v31 means we are saved by "faith only" without baptism. But like the jailer, when we learn the truth (v32), we see the need for baptism.
Context tells who is speaking:
>>> Read Psalm 14:1. <<< (Cf. Job 2:9.)
*20* Who says, "There is no God"? Answer: The ______ says there is no God.
The Bible is from God, but sometimes it records errors stated by sinners. We know not to believe them, because of who was speaking.
Context tells who is addressed, when and where: Some commands applied to other people in other times, but not to us today.
>>> Read Genesis 22:1,2. <<<
*21* What was Abraham told to do? Answer: God told Abraham to offer his son as a ______.
(Think: Must we do this?)
>>> Read Luke 23:39-43. <<<
*22* What promise did Jesus make to the thief? Answer: Jesus said the thief would be with Him in ______.
Think: Was the thief forgiven before Jesus died or after? What law was then in effect (Heb. 9:16,17; Col. 2:14)? Does this prove we can be saved without baptism now that Jesus' gospel has come into effect?

C. Define the Meaning of the Words.

The Bible is verbally inspired - each word is from God. So we understand it only when we understand the words.
Words are sometimes used today in completely different ways from the Bible meaning. "Baptism," for example, is used today for sprinkling or pouring, but in the Bible it always meant immersion (Rom. 6:4; Acts 8:38,39). Other similar examples are "saint," "church," "bishop," etc.
Dictionaries may help, but the best way to understand Bible words is to study them in context and parallel passages.

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Part IV: Bible Study Tools and Procedures

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The following ideas and suggestions harmonize with the principles we have learned, though other approaches may fit them too.

A. Helpful Tools for Study

Translations: The Bible was written in Hebrew and Greek, so we need translations into our language. Since the Bible is verbally inspired, translations ought to give the exact meaning of the original words.
Some modern "translations" emphasize eloquence or simplicity instead of original meaning. Other translations come from one man or one denomination, so their personal beliefs may influence their work. Seek a translation made by many men who come from different groups, who believe in verbal inspiration, and who emphasize the meaning of the original words (read the introduction of the translation).
For a primary study Bible, we suggest the King James Version, New King James Version, American Standard Version, or New American Standard Version. Use others mainly for purposes of comparison.
Cross references: Some Bibles have footnotes on each verse that refer to other similar verses. These help find other verses on the subject.
Concordance: A concordance lists Bible words alphabetically giving passages where each word is used. Some concordances are brief; others are more complete.
Use a concordance to: (1) find passages about a subject; (2) find a particular verse if you know one or two words in it; (3) determine the meaning of a word by studying verses where it is used.
Other helps: Remember that the following helps are written by humans and are therefore subject to error.
(1) Bible dictionaries and encyclopedias are alphabetic descriptions of Bible people, places, things, and events. Do not expect them to give detailed definitions or discussions of doctrinal matters.
(2) "Expository dictionaries" and lexicons actually define Bible words. You look up the English word in an expository dictionary, but you must know the Greek or Hebrew alphabet to use a lexicon. Be careful with these books if you have no training in the original languages.
(3) Commentaries are verse-by-verse explanations of the text. Beware that authors' beliefs may contradict Scripture. If you use commentaries, study several to get alternative views, consider the reasons the author gives for his view, and always let the Bible be your final authority.

B. Suggested Procedures for Bible Study

The following suggestions will help you start with a few basic Bible study tools and study a Bible passage or subject for yourself. These are general guidelines that may be abbreviated or modified.

Suggested procedure for studying a Bible passage

1. Study the general background of the book of the Bible. Who wrote it? What do you know about the author? To whom was it written, when, and under what circumstances? This information may come from the book itself (see next step) or from cross-references or concordances.
2. Read the passage. Consider the theme of the whole book and the main subjects being discussed in the context.
3. Study section by section. Examine each paragraph, each verse, each phrase, and even each word. Define key words and study other passages on the subject (use cross references, concordances, etc.).
Ask questions about what the passage does and does not mean. Consider alternative views, then look for the answers to your questions. Try to explain the meaning in your own words. Think of examples or illustrations to help explain the passage. Make practical applications.

Suggested procedure for studying a Bible subject

1. Select and define the topic. Revise, if necessary, as you proceed.
2. List the important words. Define these as you proceed. Use them to find passages in the concordance.
3. List the important passages. Use memory, concordance, cross references, etc.
4. Study each passage using the methods previously described for passages. Ask questions, draw conclusions, make applications, etc.
Always make careful notes at each step and save them for the future.

Conclusion

God's word not only teaches why we should study, it teaches us how to study. Our eternal destiny depends on the outcome.

Personal application questions:

(These questions are for you to ponder. Your answers will help us understand your thinking, however they will not affect your "score.")
*23* What conclusion do you reach about doctrines or practices that are not authorized in God's word? ______
*24* Do you believe we must always find a "thou shalt not" in Scripture in order to know a practice is wrong? ______
*25* How helpful has this lesson been in your understanding of how to study the Bible? ______

How to Study the Bible -- Part 1

Following Jesus -- Course A, Lesson #2

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Introduction:
After baptism, people should be taught to observe all things Jesus has commanded (Matthew 28:18-20). Learning God's will is just as essential after baptism as before. Conversion should be the beginning of a lifetime of study. However, in order to benefit from Bible study, we must know how to study properly. The purpose of this lesson is to present basic Bible principles about proper study.

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I: Proper Attitudes in Study

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Ezra "prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord" (Ezra 7:10). Right methods of study must begin with right attitudes.

A. Appreciate the Importance of Study

Diligent study requires motivation. Christians have all the reasons they could possibly need to study the Bible. Consider a few. As you do, note the emphasis on regular, frequent study.

#1: Study so you can obey God and grow in His service.

>>> Read Joshua 1:8. <<<
*1&2* What was Joshua told to do so he could succeed in God's work? Answer: He was to ______ on God's law day and ______.
>>> Read 1 Peter 2:2. <<<
*3&4* What do Christians need, and why do they need it? Answer: We should desire the spiritual ______ of God's word so by it we can ______ to salvation.
Think: Do we long for the word like a baby longs for milk if we neglect to attend assemblies or to study at home? (See also 2 Tim. 2:15; Rom. 10:17; Matt. 4:4; John 6:44,45; 2 Peter 1:12-15.)

#2: Study so you can avoid error and false teaching.

>>> Read Hosea 4:6. <<<
*5* Why were God's people destroyed? (a) they studied too hard, (b) they lacked knowledge, (c) they didn't pray to Mary, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
>>> Read Acts 17:11. <<<
*6&7* How did the Bereans distinguish truth from error? Answer: They searched the ______. How often? ______.
(1 John 4:1,6; Gal. 1:8; Matt. 22:29; 15:14; Prov. 2:1-20; Rom. 10:1ff)

#3: Study so you can teach others.

>>> Read Deuteronomy 6:6-9. <<<
*8* What must parents do so they can teach their children? (a) have God's word in their hearts, (b) attend a seminary, (c) see visions. Answer: ______.
>>> Read Hebrews 5:12. <<<
*9* What should Christians become? What problem did these have? Answer: Christians ought to become ______, but these needed to be taught again themselves.
Think: Why should teachers study? Why should people who are not teachers study? Is there an excuse for us if we do not study? (See also 2 Tim. 2:2; 1 Tim. 1:7; 1 Peter 3:15; Col. 3:16; Rom. 15:14.)

#4: Study to express love for God and His word.

>>> Read Psalm 1:2; 119:47,48,97-99. <<<
*10&11* What will we do if we delight in God's word? (Cf. Psalm 19:7-11.) Answer: We will ______ on God's law day and ______.
Think: If people truly love God, will they complain about "having to go" to worship services or prepare for Bible studies? (Cf. 1 John 5:3.)
>>> Read John 14:15. <<<
*12* If we love God, what will we do? (a) say the rosary, (b) sing in the choir, (c) keep God's commands, (d) practice celibacy. Answer: ______.
Think: Suppose a young lady is separated from her boyfriend, who writes to her every day. She displays his letters on the coffee table, but they sit there for days before she opens and reads them. Does she really love him? What application can be made to Bible study?
Do people usually learn about subjects that really interest them (sports, hobbies, etc.)? What does our Bible study indicate about our interest in God's word?

(Note: If you would like more information about the importance of Bible study, see our links at the end of this lesson.)

B. Study with an Open Mind and a Love for Truth.

>>> Read Matthew 5:6. <<<
*13* How can we be filled with righteousness? (a) hunger and thirst for it, (b) work miracles, (c) confess to the priest, (d) it doesn't matter. Answer: ______.
>>> Read Matthew 13:14,15. <<<
*14&15* Why did some misunderstand truth? Answer: Their hearts had become (or waxed) ______ and their eyes were ______.
If we do not have a burning desire for truth, God will not force us to accept it. He will let us be lost.
(See also Acts 17:11; 2 Thess. 2:10-12; 2 Tim. 4:2-4; John 3:19-21; 2 Cor. 13:5; 1 Thess. 5:21,22; Prov. 18:13; 23:23; 15:10; Luke 8:15.)

C. Respect the Bible as Being Verbally and Infallibly Inspired.

If a person doubts that the Bible is God's infallible word, he is much more likely to disagree with it or reject it.

The Bible is from God.

>>> Read 1 Thessalonians 2:13. <<<
*16* What is the source of Scripture? (a) people thought it up, (b) it came on golden plates, (c) Mohammed wrote it, (d) it is God's word. Answer: ______.
>>> Read Galatians 1:11,12. <<<
*17&18* What was the origin of the gospel Paul preached? Answer: He received it by ______ from ______.
Think: If we reject a Biblical command, whom have we rejected?
(2 Tim. 3:16f; 1 Cor. 14:37; Eph. 3:3-5; Luke 10:16; 2 Peter 1:20,21.)

The Bible is verbally inspired.

Verbal inspiration means that every word written by the inspired writers was exactly the word God wanted. Some people believe that God just gave the inspired men ideas, then let them explain them as they saw fit. This belief leaves room for error in the way the men expressed the ideas. Consider these verses:
>>> Read 1 Corinthians 2:10-13. <<<
*19* How did inspired men know what to speak? (a) they chose the words, (b) they spoke their own ideas, (c) the Spirit gave them the words. Answer: ______.
>>> Read Deuteronomy 18:18,19. <<<
*20&21* What would God do for this inspired prophet? Answer: God put His ______ in the prophet's ______.
(Cf. Matt. 10:19f; 2 Sam. 23:1,2; Ex. 24:3,4,7; Isa. 51:l6; Jer. 1:5-9.)

The Bible is infallible.

Infallible means the message of the inspired writers cannot possibly be wrong, because God does not make mistakes.
>>> Read Psalm 119:128. <<<
*22* What can we know about God's precepts? Answer: All God's precepts are ______.
>>> Read Titus 1:2. <<<
*23* What can God not do? (a) He can't predict the future, (b) He can't lie, (c) He can't live forever, (d) He can't do miracles. Answer: ______.
Think: Consider Matthew 22:31,32. Note that the Scriptures are so accurate that we can rely even on the tense of the verbs. What does this teach about verbal and infallible inspiration?
How will it affect our Bible study if we are not convinced that every word is true? (Cf. John 17:17; Psalm 33:4; 19:8; 147:4,5; Rom. 3:4; Job 37:16; Num. 23:19; Heb. 6:18; Deut. 18:20-22).

(Note: If you would like more information about the inspiration of the Bible, see our links at the end of this lesson.)

D. Believe that the Bible Can Be Understood.

Some believe that the Bible can be understood only by specially trained clergymen, not by the average person. As a result, they approach the Bible convinced they will never understand it.
>>> Read Mark 7:14. <<<
*24* What did Jesus expect the multitudes to do? Answer: The multitudes were to hear Jesus and ______.
>>> Read 2 Timothy 3:16,17. <<<
*25* For what are the Scriptures profitable? (a) teaching, (b) reproof, (c) instruction in righteousness, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
Think: Would they be profitable if we could not understand them?
Remember that the Bereans (Acts 17:11) did not just accept what preachers said, but used the Scriptures to check out the preachers!
Think: If a person is convinced he cannot understand the Bible, what will most likely happen if he tries to study it?
(See also Eph. 5:17; 1 Cor. 14:33; Eph. 3:3-5; Isa. 55:11; 35:8; John 20:30,31; 8:32; Prov. 2:1-12; Psalm 19:7-11; 119:105; Col. 1:9-11.)

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II: Principles of Bible Authority

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Luke 8:18 warns us to take heed how we hear. Likewise, we must take heed how we study the Bible. To know how to study, we must understand the principles God uses to teach us. [2 Tim. 2:15]

A. God's Commands for Us Today Are Revealed in the New Testament.

Old Testament laws are not binding authority today.

The fact that a practice was acceptable under the Old Testament does not prove it is acceptable today.
>>> Read Hebrews 10:9,10. <<<
*26&27* What did Jesus do to the first and second wills (covenants)? Answer: He ______ the first and established the ______.
>>> Read Galatians 5:1-4. <<<
*28* What is our condition if we try to be justified by the old law today? (a) we fall from grace, (b) God is pleased, (c) it does not matter. Answer: ______.
Think: Are the laws of Great Britain still binding in America? How is this like the Law of Moses? What consequence follows for Old Testament practices like animal sacrifices, special priesthood, tithing, seventh-day Sabbath, circumcision, instrumental music, feast days, etc.?
(Gal. 3:24f; Rom. 7:1-7; Eph. 2:11-18; Heb. 8:6-13; 9:15-20; 7:11-25)

However, even though the Old Testament is not binding as law, still much good can come from studying it.

Old Testament Scriptures were written for our learning (Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:6,11). We can learn how to use the Old Testament by considering Bible examples of how first-century Christians used it.
History - Notice the Old Testament events referred to in passages like Genesis 1, Acts 7, and Hebrews 11.
*29* Would we understand these events without the Old Testament? Answer ("yes" or "no.") ______.
Evidence - God's existence, the Bible's inspiration, and Jesus' Deity are confirmed by such evidences as the following: (1) The accuracy of the Bible in history, geography, and science; (2) Fulfilled prophecy (see John 5:39; Acts 3:24); and (3) The unity of the Bible. Each of these requires an understanding of the Old Testament.
Unchanging Principles - Although God's laws have changed, many facts about the universe, the nature of man, and the nature of God do not change (Heb. 13:8).
>>> Read Romans 3:10-12ff (cf. v23). <<< [Cf. 1 Cor. 10:1-12.]
*30* What principle can we learn from the Old Testament? (a) we should keep the sabbath, (b) all men sin, (c) we inherit Adam's sin. Answer: ______.
Appreciation and Understanding of the New Testament -Differences and similarities between the old and new laws help us understand and appreciate the new.
>>> Read Hebrews 10:3,4,9-12. <<<
*31* Why should we appreciate Jesus' New Testament sacrifice? Answer: Because animal sacrifices could not take away ______.
Think: Should we neglect to study the Old Testament just because it is no longer binding as law?

(Note: If you would like more information about our relationship to the old law, see our links at the end of this lesson.)

B. In the Bible, God Uses Three Basic Methods to Reveal His Will.

We often use various methods to communicate or teach others. Likewise God uses the following methods:

1. Commands and direct statements

>>> Read 1 Corinthians 14:37. <<<
*32* What did Paul write down? Answer: Paul wrote the ______ of the Lord.
Think: Name some commands recorded for us in the New Testament. Consider Acts 10:48; Matt. 22:37-40; 1 Cor. 11:23-25; 16:1,2.
(Cf. John 14:15,21-24; 15:14; 1 John 5:3; 2:3,4; Matt. 28:18-20.)

2. Examples and illustrations

Instead of directly commanding us to do something, God sometimes tells us indirectly by giving an instance in which Christians acted by His guidance. We are expected to imitate these examples.
>>> Read 1 Peter 2:21,22. <<<
*33* Who left us an example to follow? (a) the Pope, (b) Mohammed, (c) Buddha, (d) Christ, (e) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
>>> Read Philippians 3:17; 4:9. <<< [Cf. Acts 15:5-11.]
*34* How should we use Paul's example? (a) ignore it, (b) follow it as our example, (c) we may consider it but we don't have to follow it. Answer: ______.
Think: Specifically, what can we learn from the following Bible examples? Heb. 11; James 5:10,11; Acts 8:35-39; 20:7; 14:23.
(Cf. Phil. 2:5; Matt. 10:24,25; 16:24; 1 John 2:6; 1 Cor. 11:1; 10:1-12; 4:16; 1 Tim. 1:16; 2 Thess. 3:7,9; Heb. 6:12; 4:11; Luke 10:30-37.)

3. Logical necessary conclusions ("necessary inferences" or "Scriptural reasoning")

If someone tells you his date of birth, can you determine how old he is? Likewise, some truths are not directly or expressly stated in the Bible, yet they necessarily follow as a logical consequence of what is stated.
>>> Read Acts 17:1-3. <<<
*35* How did Paul demonstrate that Jesus is the Christ? Answer: He reasoned from the ______.
Think: Do Old Testament prophecies directly state that Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ? How could people know from them that Jesus is the Christ? (Acts 2:22-36; 18:4,19; 19:8,9; 28:23; Isa. 1:18; 1 Peter 3:15)
>>> Read Matthew 19:3-9. <<<
*36* By referring to God's marriage plan in Gen. 2, what conclusion did Jesus reach about divorce? Answer: What God has ______ let not man separate.
Think: Was this conclusion directly stated in Genesis 2?
(For other examples see Hebrews 7:11-18; Acts 11:1-18; 15:6-21; Gal. 3:10-12; 1 Cor. 15:12-19; Matt. 22:23-32; 21:28-46; 22:41-46.)
Think: How would you use John 6:44,45; Mark 16:15,16; and Acts 2:38 to prove babies should not be baptized? Eph. 1:22,23 with Heb. 8:1 to prove the church has no earthly headquarters? Heb. 10:25 to prove the church may provide a place to assemble? Are these conclusions directly stated in the passages?
Mature Christians must use wisdom to apply the principles of God's word to specific situations (Heb. 5:14). As in a math problem, we "add up" the information given to reach a conclusion.

C. God's Word Completely Reveals His Will for Us.

Some people think we should believe religious doctrines that are not found in the Bible. They think we can appeal to other authorities (such as church councils, human creeds, preachers, tradition, or modern revelations) to validate religious acts that are not found in the gospel.
>>> Read John 16:13. <<<
*37* How much truth did the Holy Spirit reveal to the apostles? Answer: The Spirit revealed ______ truth to the original apostles.
Think: What does this prove about doctrines people claim are from God but are not found in the Scriptures?
>>> Read 2 Peter 1:3. <<<
*38* What had God's power granted to people in Peter's day? (a) some truth, (b) all things pertaining to life and godliness, (c) a promise that new truths would be revealed later. Answer: ______.
All good works have been provided to us in the Scriptures (2 Timothy 3:16,17). If so, can people today invent or reveal new truths or new ways to please God that are not found in the Scriptures? (Cf. Acts 20:20,27.)
Scripture may not answer every speculative question men may have (Deut. 29:29), but they tell us all we need to know and practice in order to be pleasing to God.
Our next study will discuss more principles about Bible study along with guidelines for learning for ourselves what God's word teaches.

Personal application questions:

(These questions are for you to ponder. Your answers will help us understand your thinking, however they will not affect your "score.")
*39* How important is Bible study in your life? ___________
*40* Do you agree that the Bible teaches by examples and reasoning to necessary conclusions as well as by commands and direct statements? _________
*41* Do you accept the Bible as the perfect, complete, and understandable revelation of God's will? _________

Why Do We Need Salvation and Forgiveness of Sins by the Blood of Jesus?

What are the consequences of sin and why do people need forgiveness by the blood of Jesus Christ? Can the gospel overcome guilt, fear, alienation, and eternal punishment? Does it offer salvation, joy, hope, and eternal life? Have you investigated the Bible teaching about the death of Jesus? Have you allowed Him to change your life and give you hope and meaning in life?

Introduction:
Sometimes we fail to see our need for items that would really benefit us if we had them. Or we may lose our appreciation for an item when we have it.
The purpose of this study is to help us appreciate more fully a gift that all of us need but sometimes fail to appreciate. This gift is the forgiveness of sins. To help us appreciate forgiveness, let us consider the consequences of sin. Many people unnecessarily face guilt, fear, alienation, and eternal punishement. Please study with us how these problems can be solved by forgiveness through the blood of Jesus Christ according to the gospel, resulting in joy, hope, salvation, and eternal life.

Problem #1: Separation from God

Sin Alienates Us from God.

Genesis 2:17; 3:8 - Adam and Eve's sin separated them from God. They could no longer bear to be in His presence, but sought to avoid Him.
Isaiah 59:1,2 - Our sins and iniquities separate us from God, so He will not hear us.
Ephesians 2:12 - People in sin (v1-3) are separated from Christ and without God in the world.

Forgiveness Restores Our Relationship to God.

Romans 5:6-10 - Though sin deserves punishment, God loves us so much He sent His Son to bear our punishment so we could be saved.
Ephesians 2:13,17-19 - Though we were separated and far from God, we can be made nigh by the blood of Christ and have access to the Father.
Colossians 1:21-23 - Our evil works make us enemies alienated from God, but through Jesus' death we can be reconciled (made friends again).
Surely the serious consequences of sin should lead us to see our need for forgiveness. Having obtained forgiveness, we should continue to live faithfully so we can continue in God's fellowship.

Problem #2: Alienation between Loved Ones

Sin Is a Barrier Between Loved Ones.

Husbands and wives may be alienated by mistreatment, adultery, or alcoholism. There may be bitterness, quarreling, and even divorce.
Parents and children may have conflict. Parents may be unloving, abusive, stubborn, or selfish. Or like the prodigal son, children may rebel or become involved in immoral conduct (Luke 15:11-13).
Children in a family may be alienated because of jealousy, selfishness, deceit, or hatred.
Alienation may also occur in the church or between friends. There may be religious error, lying, slander, jealousy, pride, racial prejudice, stubbornness, etc. (James 3:14-18; Gal. 2:11-14; Rom. 16:17).
Sin can cause all these tragedies between people who should love one another.

Forgiveness Reunites Loved Ones.

In these cases, we must seek to obtain forgiveness, not just from God, but also from the people we offended. And those who have been wronged, must be willing to forgive.
Luke 15:18,21 - The prodigal son confessed he had sinned both against heaven and his father.
Matthew 5:23,24 - We must seek reconciliation with those we have wronged.
Luke 17:3,4 - People who sin against others should express repentance. If they do, others must willingly forgive them. [Matthew 6:12,14,15]
Have you made your life right with those you have wronged? When people repent, do you forgive like you want God to forgive you?

Problem #3: Loss of Self-Respect

Sin Makes Us Feel Worthless and Defeated.

Sin alienates us, not only from God and from our fellow-man, but also from ourselves.
Job 42:6 - Job abhorred himself for his sin. When we fully face the consequences of our deeds, we think, "How could I do such a thing?"
Matthew 26:33-35,69-75 - Peter affirmed he would die rather than deny Jesus. Yet before the night was over, he denied Jesus three times with cursing and swearing! Such conduct gives one a sense of utter failure.
Sin makes people miserable.

Forgiveness Restores Our Sense of Worth.

1 Timothy 1:12-16 - Paul had been "the chief of sinners," because he opposed Christ and persecuted Christians. Yet he was forgiven and became one of Jesus' most effective servants.
The apostle Peter, when he had repented of denying Jesus, preached the first gospel sermons both to Jews and to Gentiles (Acts 2 & 10). Surely his disappointment in his sins was overcome by forgiveness and faithful service to Christ.
Matthew 20:25-28 - God does not view us as great because we have authority, fame, power, pleasure, or possessions. Rather we are great because we faithfully serve God and our fellow-man.
Like a child who breaks a precious possession, we may ruin our lives by sin. Yet God can give us a new beginning - "newness of life" (Rom. 6:4).
Do you want this blessing? If you once had it, are you continuing to serve God faithfully?

Problem #4: The Burden of Guilt

Sin Gives a Burden of Guilt.

Genesis 3:10 - Adam hid himself from God because he was afraid. He felt guilty and ashamed.
Psalms 38:3-8 - When David committed adultery and murder, he groaned because his burden of sin was too heavy to bear (v4,8).
Matthew 27:3-5 - Judas' guilt drove him to suicide. Others turn to drink, drugs, or complete moral abandon to escape the reality of their guilt.
Sin wounds our consciences and our pride. Many people live year after year with this burden of guilt, not knowing what to do to make it right or not willing to do what they know is needed.

Forgiveness Restores Our Innocence.

Psalms 51:1-3,7-10 - David pled for his sins to be blotted out (v1,2,9), so he might be white as snow (v7) with a clean heart and right spirit (v10).
Acts 2:36-38 - The people who crucified Jesus were convicted by the gospel. Peter said they could have remission of their sins if they would repent and be baptized.
The burden of guilt can be replaced with a beautiful sense of innocence through Jesus' blood. "Come unto me, all you who … are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28).
Do you want this blessing? If you have received it, do you still act as if you appreciate it?

Problem #5: Loss of Joy and Hope

Sin Causes Fear, Grief, and Hopelessness.

Genesis 3:7-10 - Adam was afraid and hid from God, because he knew God would punish him for his sin. Yet hiding from God was no solution.
Sinners fear death because after it comes judgment and eternal punishment if we are not forgiven (Heb. 9:27; 2 Thess. 1:8,9; Rev. 20:10-15).
Psalm 38:6 - Sin also makes us sad. "I go mourning all day long."
Matthew 26:75 - Peter wept bitterly after he denied Jesus.
Ephesians 2:12 - People in sin are without hope (1 Thess 4:13). They may wish for eternal life, but the destiny of unforgiven sinners is eternal punishment instead. No one hopes for that! So they are "without hope" (Job 8:13).
People who know they are guilty of sin often spend sleepless hours worrying about their eternal destiny. Is this your case?

Forgiveness Gives Joy and Hope.

Psalms 51:8,12 - Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation. When sins are forgiven, there is no more reason for fear and sadness. No wonder the gospel accounts of conversion are such joyful occasions (Acts 16:31-34; 8:39; Luke 15:7,10,22-24,32).
Romans 8:24 - In hope were we saved.
Romans 5:1,2 - Being justified by faith, we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. [Phil. 4:4,7]
1 Peter 1:3-5 - Being born again, we have the living hope of an undefiled and incorruptible inheritance reserved in heaven for us.
Do you have this hope? Do you appreciate it?

Problem #6: Loss of Eternal Life

Sin Leads to Punishment.

Matthew 25:41 - The wicked will go to eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.
2 Thessalonians 1:8,9 - This is everlasting punishment (Matt. 25:41,46). This destiny awaits many people. Yet it is so needless, because there is a solution to the problem.

Forgiveness Leads to Eternal Life.

Romans 6:23 - The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Titus 3:7 - To be heirs of the hope of eternal life, we must be justified by God's grace.
Sin may cause great problems in this life, yet the problems it causes after this life are far greater. Surely we need to be forgiven and escape these consequences. Have you done so?

Conclusion

Sin puts an impassable barrier between us and the spiritual blessings God offers. We cannot go over that barrier or around, under, or through it. The only way to receive God's blessings is for that barrier of sin to be destroyed, and the only power in existence to destroy it is the blood of Jesus.
By His mercy, God offers forgiveness to all men (1 Tim. 2:4,6; Titus 2:11; John 3:16; Mark 16:15,16). To receive it, we must meet God's conditions. The choice is up to each of us.
What are the conditions? We must hear and believe the gospel, repent of sin, confess Christ, and be baptized for forgiveness (Romans 1:16; 10:17,9,10; Luke 24:47; 2 Corinthians 7:10; Acts 17:30,31; 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:21).
We must then continue to live a faithful life (Titus 2:11-14; James 1:21-25; Romans chap. 6). If we fall away, we can again be forgiven, if we will truly repent and pray (Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:9).