Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Attitudes Needed in a Local Church

Following Jesus, Course B, Lesson 4

Introduction:
Our last lesson examined work that members need to do in the local church. But in order for the church to succeed, proper work must be accompanied by proper attitudes. Here are some attitudes that all Christians need in order to maintain proper relationships in the local church.

I. Members Need to Love God and One Another.

God Requires Us to Love.

>>> Please read Matthew 22:37-40. <<<
*1,2* The greatest two commands require love for whom? Answer: The commands require love first for __________ and second for your __________.
>>> Please read 1 Corinthians 13:1-3. <<<
*3* How important is love? (a) love is unnecessary, (b) good works must be motivated by love, (c) God does not care, (d) all of the preceding. Answer: __________.
>>> Please read John 13:34,35. <<<
*4* How can we understand the kind of love we should show? Answer: We should love one another like __________ loved us.
If we do not love our brothers, then we cannot properly love our Father in heaven (1 John 4:19-21; 1 Thess. 3:12; 4:9,10; 2 Thess. 1:3).

Love Requires Us to Obey God and Help Others.

>>> Please read 1 John 3:16-18. <<<
*5* How did Jesus show His love for us? Answer: Jesus showed His love by __________.
>>> Please read John 14:15,21-24; 1 John 5:2,3. <<<
*6* To truly love God and other people, what must one do? Answer: Proper love requires us to __________ God's (Jesus') commands.
Think: Is God pleased by a sweet disposition without obedience? Is He pleased by outward conduct without proper motives?
Too many congregations are filled with people who lack sincere love for one another or who fail to show love in their actions. Furthermore, love is the basis of all proper obedience. The other attitudes and practices we will study must grow out of love.
Do you sincerely love all your brethren? Does love show in what you do as well as in your speech? If every Christian loved like you do, would God be pleased or displeased? Do you love as Jesus loved?
[John 15:12-17; Eph. 5:2; Phil. 2:2,3; Heb. 13:1; 1 Peter 1:22; 2:17]

II. Members Must Be Committed to Truth.

Many churches suffer because members fail to pursue truth.

Members Must Love the Truth.

>>> Please read John 8:31-34; 1 Peter 1:22,23. <<<
*7,8* What can truth do for us? Answer: Truth can make us __________; obeying it can purify our __________.
>>> Please read 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12. <<<
*9* What will happen to those who do not love truth? Answer: Those who do not love truth will not be saved but will believe a lie and __________.
No matter how often you hear truth preached, if you do not love it enough, sooner or later you will believe error and be lost.
[1 Cor. 13:6; James 1:18; Prov. 23:23; John 3:19-21]

Members Must Learn and Believe Truth.

Truth is found in God's word (John 17:17), but that will do us no good unless we put forth the effort to learn and accept it.
>>> Please read John 8:32; Psalm 25:4,5. <<<
*10* What must we do so truth can free us from sin? Answer: We must __________ the truth, so it can set us free.
>>> Please read Proverbs 2:1-6. <<<
*11* How should we search for understanding? Answer: Search for it like we are searching for __________.
Think: If we really value truth like we value treasure, would we think about it only one hour a week? Does a person love truth when he has no desire to study it every day? Shouldn't we want to attend every opportunity the church provides for us to learn?
Local churches are successful only when the members are truly committed to studying and attending when they can.
[Prov. 8:7-11,17; Acts 17:11; Psa. 86:11; 1 Tim. 2:3,4; Eph. 1:13]

Members Must Obey the Truth.

Knowledge is of little benefit unless we act on it.
>>> Please read 1 Peter 1:22,23; Psalm 19:7-11. <<<
*12* According to the passages, how do we benefit from God's word? (a) just read it, (b) just talk about it, (c) just tell others about it, (d) keep and obey it. Answer: __________.
>>> Please read Romans 2:6-11. <<<
*13* What happens if we do not obey truth? Answer: Those who don't obey will receive __________.
God never promises the benefits of truth to those who do not obey it. Too many congregations have members who continue to disobey truth, yet they do not seem to realize their error. These folks need to learn the importance of commitment to truth.
Churches need members who love the truth enough to obey it.
[John 8:31; 2 John 4; 3 John 3,4; Gal. 5:7; Psa. 26:3; 86:11; John 4:24; 3:19-21; James 5:19,20; 1:18-25; Matt. 7:21-27; Heb. 10:26-31]

Members Must Oppose Error.

Most members have difficulty speaking out against sin. Some people say it is "unloving" to do so. Yet truth and error are opposites. You cannot love one without hating the other.
>>> Please read Hebrews 1:9; Romans 12:9. <<<
*14,15* How should we view right and wrong? Answer: We should __________ evil and __________ righteousness.
Think: Is it possible to really love truth without hating error?
>>> Please read Revelation 3:19; 2 Timothy 4:2-4. <<<
*16* What should be done when people turn from truth to error? Answer: As an act of love, we should __________ people who go into error.
Think: How can rebuking sin be an act of love? What does it mean to "hate the sin, but love the sinner"?
We should not rebuke people from a spirit of pride, vengeance, or self-will. But if we truly love people who are in sin, we will rebuke them.
Too many congregations have been overrun by error because members did not oppose it. The only congregation that will remain faithful before God is one where the members will speak out for what is true and oppose error with sincere love for the souls of all.
Is spiritual truth more valuable to you than material possessions? Do you study diligently and attend church meetings to learn God's word? Are you willing to change your conduct to live according to truth no matter how great the sacrifice that is required?
[Amos 5:15; Psalms 119:104,127,128; 1 Tim. 1:3-7; Lev. 19:17,18; John 7:7; James 5:19,20; Gal. 6:1,2; 1 Thess. 5:14; Eph. 5:11]

III. Members Must Be Committed to Serve.

Too often people believe that, even if they do not work, they should be treated the same as folks who do work. As a result, many congregations are hindered by negligent members. Instead of "every part doing its share," relatively few members end up doing most of the work.
>>> Please read Matthew 20:26-28. <<<
*17* What is the true basis of greatness in life? Answer: Those who are great are those who __________.
Think: Is greatness determined by wealth, power, or talent?
>>> Please read 1 Corinthians 15:58. <<<
*18* How does God describe the way we ought to work? (a) steadfast, (b) unmovable, (c) abounding, (d) not vain, (e) all the preceding. Answer: __________.
Think: Is God satisfied when folks do a little work or work sporadically and intermittently?
>>> Please read Galatians 6:2. <<<
*19* What should Christians do for one another? Answer: We should bear one another's __________.
Note that the attitudes we previously studied also show the importance of service. If we appreciate the importance of loving God and others, if we are committed to the truth, if we want to be truly great, and if we want to be saved eternally, then we must appreciate the value of serving others. Service is essential to all these other things.
Would Jesus say that you are steadfast, always abounding in His work? Do you actively seek ways to be more involved in the work of the church, or do you seek to avoid work? If every member was just as active and involved in the work of the church as you are, how much work would be accomplished?
[Acts 10:35; Gal. 5:6,13,14; Titus 2:11-14; Luke 10:25-37; Neh. 4:6; Ecc. 9:10; James 2:14-26; 2 Thess 1:8,9; Rom. 6:17,18; Matt. 7:21]

IV. Members Must Be Patient & Forbearing.

Many members act properly when they have no problems, but they fail to act properly when things do not go their way, or when they are not treated well. Other people are good at starting projects but not so good at finishing what they start. We need patience and forbearance.
Patience is endurance, persistence, perseverance, longsuffering, steadfastness. It is the quality of a person who, having begun in the right direction, continues on in spite of all difficulties.

Members Must Patiently Face Hardship.

>>> Please read Luke 8:11-15. <<<
*20* How did good soil differ from other soils? Answer: The good soil describes people who bear fruit with __________.
>>> Please read Hebrews 10:32-36; 12:1-4. <<<
*21* What do we need when we suffer? (a) patience and endurance, (b) a large bankroll, (c) an influential family, (d) a good education. Answer: __________.
Too many members blow hot and cold. They begin good works (studying, attending, etc.), but they become discouraged and give up when they face problems and opposition. Local churches need members who keep working no matter how difficult the challenge.
[James 5:7,8; 1:12; 1 Cor. 13:4,7; 1 Pet. 2:19-23; Gal. 5:22; 2 Pet. 1:6]

We need patience when teaching sinners.

>>> Please read 2 Timothy 4:2-4; 2:24-26. <<<
*22* We need patience (longsuffering) to do what? (a) accumulate wealth, (b) become a famous actor, (c) teach others, (d) win an election. Answer: __________.
>>> Please read 1 Thessalonians 5:14. <<<
*23* With whom should we be patient in our teaching? Answer: We should be patient with (longsuffering toward) __________.
Some people become discouraged when they don't see immediate results to their work, when people criticize them, or when converts go back to the world. God has warned us that some will not want the truth, but we must still teach. Local churches need members who patiently lead sinners to the truth.
Note that the above verses specifically deal with teaching other Christians who sin. Sometimes these cases require the greatest patience. [Gal. 6:1; Matt. 18:15-17; 5:23,24; Luke 17:3,4; 1 Cor. 5; 2 Thess. 3:6,14,15; Titus 3:10,11; Rom. 16:17,18]
Do you continue patiently serving God, or have you allowed problems to cause you to give up doing what you know is right? Do you seek to be reconciled to people in the church from whom you have become alienated? Do you honor the Bible plan for church discipline? Do you bear temptation and hardship like Jesus did?

V. Members Must Be Committed to Unity and Peace.

Throughout the world local churches have been destroyed by division and strife. Christians who once worked side-by-side can no longer even worship together. This is tragic.

Members Must Work For Peace and Unity.

>>> Please read John 17:20,21. <<<
*24* For what did Jesus pray? Answer: He prayed we would all be __________ as He and His Father are.
>>> Please read Romans 15:5,6; 1 Peter 3:8. <<<
*25* How united should we be? (a) like-minded toward one another, (b) one mind, (c) glorifying God with one mouth, (d) all of these. Answer: __________.
Think: How many people does it take to destroy the unity and peace of the local church? How many people must work for unity?
Notice now how all the other attitudes we have studied will help promote peace and unity in a congregation.

Love Promotes Peace and Unity.

Love leads us to treat our brethren right.
>>> Please read Philippians 2:2-5. <<<
*26* Love is here associated with what? (a) like minds, (b) one accord, (c) looking for the interests of others, (d) all of the preceding. Answer: __________.
Think: Can unity exist where members always want their own way and pursue their own interests?
Few things destroy unity in a local church faster than selfishness. Local churches need members who will seek the wellbeing of other members, sacrificing their own desires to help others. [1 Cor. 1:10-13,31]

Commitment to Truth Promotes Peace and Unity.

We have already learned that all members must follow God's will instead of human doctrine. Such a commitment to truth helps maintain unity by keeping the church pure and avoiding doctrinal error.
>>> Please read Ephesians 4:2-6. <<<
*27,28* How many bodies and how many faiths are necessary to unity? Answer: We must have __________ body and __________ faith.
Think: When members depart from the "one faith" and persist in unscriptural practices, does this promote peace and unity? In such cases, who stands guilty before God when division comes?
God's plan for unity is not a plan for doctrinal compromise. In areas of personal preferences and opinions, we must compromise for the good of the group. But when people leave the truth to practice sin, they must be taught to repent. If they will not, the only way the church can return to unity in truth is to withdraw from them (Rom. 16:17,18; Titus 3:10,11; 2 Thess. 3:6,14,15).
True wisdom is "first pure, then peaceable" (James 3:17). Local churches need members who seek unity based on truth.

Service to Others Promotes Peace and Unity.

Commitment to service leads every member to do his/her share in the congregation.
>>> Please read 1 Corinthians 12:17-25. <<<
*29* If every member of the body fulfills its function and every member cares for other members, what problem can we avoid (v25)? Answer: When all members work together, we avoid ___________.
Think: When members neglect their work and leave it for other members to do, does this promote peace and unity in a congregation?
The local church needs members who work diligently to please the Lord and serve one another. If all will cooperate and work together, then we also have the unity God wants. [Rom. 12:3-8]

Patience Promotes Peace and Unity.

Patience with other members helps a congregation overcome problems and maintain good relationships.
>>> Please read Ephesians 4:2,3. <<<
*30* Unity (v3) is associated with what qualities? (a) humility, (b) longsuffering, (c) bearing with one another, (d) all the preceding. Answer: __________.
When we are irritated by personalities or opinions of brethren who are not guilty of sin, patience will help us forbear and maintain peace. When brethren are guilty of sin, patience will help us restore them.
Do you appreciate all members for the work they do, when they work according to their ability? Are you willing to sacrifice your personal desires and preferences in order to maintain unity? If all members of the congregation shared your attitude, would the congregation have the peace and unity that Jesus desires?
In order for the church to accomplish the work God has assigned, every member must work diligently and maintain proper attitudes.

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.")
*31* Do you need to improve your love for other Christians? ________
*32* How important is it to you to speak out against sin? __________
*33* Do you look for ways to be more involved in the church? _______
*34* Do you continue the good works you start, or do you quit? ______
*35* Do you sacrifice personal desires in order to be peaceable? ______

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Jesus Is Lord - Lesson #8

Where Can You Find the Church
that Belongs to Jesus? Part 2

Jesus Is Lord - Lesson #8

Introduction:
In this lesson we continue studying the characteristics of Jesus' church. Please review the previous lesson carefully before continuing.

G. The Organization of the Church

Universal Church Government

>>> Read EPHESIANS 1:22,23. <<<
*1* Jesus is head over how many things to the church? Answer: Jesus is Head over ______ things to the church.
*2* What is left for men to be head over in the church? (a) church laws, (b) things on earth, (c) nothing. Answer: ______.
*3* Where is Jesus now (Hebrews 8:1; 1 Peter 3:22; Eph. 1:20)? Answer: Jesus is in ______.
*4* Then where is the headquarters of Jesus church? (a) heaven, (b) Rome, (c) Salt Lake City. Answer: ______.
Jesus' church has no earthly headquarters or governing body. No man or group of men may make laws for the church.

Local Church Organization

>>> Read ACTS 20:17,28 and 1 PETER 5:1-3. <<<
*5* What is the work of elders? (a) feed (shepherd) the flock, (b) oversee the church, (c) set a good example, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*6* An eldership should have oversight of the work of how many churches? (a) two, (b) every one in the diocese, (c) the one among them. Answer: ______.
Note: Reading the above verses closely will show that "elder" is just another name for an overseer or "bishop" and a shepherd or "pastor."
Each local church must work to appoint a plurality of elders (Acts 14:23). To be appointed, these men must possess certain qualifications (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). When they have been appointed, they guide the local church in obeying God's word. The oversight of each eldership is limited to the one local church where they have been appointed.
Jesus' church has no earthly headquarters or centralized institutions. Each congregation functions independently under its own officers.
*7* If a church changes this pattern, would it be honoring Jesus? Answer (yes or no): ______.
We have now studied the "fruits" or characteristics of Jesus' church. Since God is no respecter of persons, He still requires His church to possess these same characteristics today. Any church that does not have these characteristics, cannot be the church Jesus built.

How Did Modern Denominations Begin?

Jesus built one church, and the Bible tells us what it should be like. Today there are many different denominations. Is God pleased by their existence? Where did they come from?

A. Warnings of Departure from the Gospel

>>> Read ACTS 20:28-30. <<<

*8* What danger does Paul warn about? Answer: Elders might draw away ______ after themselves.
*9* Can religious leaders lead people into error? Answer (yes or no): ______.
>>> Read 2 TIMOTHY 4:2-4. <<<
*10* What error will people be guilty of? Answer: They may turn from the ______ and follow fables.
>>> Read 1 TIMOTHY 4:1-3. <<<
*11* What does the Spirit predict will happen? Answer: Some will ______ from the faith.
*12* What particular doctrines will be taught? (a) some food (meat) should not be eaten, (b) some people should not marry, (c) both of these. Answer: ______.
Many false teachers have come among God's people. In particular, Jesus warned that error would enter among the elders, and some would forbid marriage and command to abstain from meats. God's true people must reject these false teachings. (See also Matthew 7:15-23; 15:14; Galatians 1:6-10; 1 John 4:1,6; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; 2 John 9-11; Eph. 5:11.)
Denominations contradict and disagree with one another. Yet people often say, "All the churches are following Jesus. It doesn't matter where you attend, or what you believe, as long as you worship the true God. Just join the church of your choice." What does Jesus say?

>>> Read JOHN 17:20-22. <<<

*13* In what way should we be like the Father and the Son? Answer: We should be ______ as the Father and Son are.
*14* In what ways do the Father and Son contradict one another? (a) about how to worship, (b) about how to be saved, (c) about what church to attend, (d) none of the preceding. (See also John 12:49,50.) Answer: ______.
The existence of denominations contradicts Jesus' prayer for unity.
>>> Read 1 CORINTHIANS 1:10,13. <<<
*15* What does God say about division? Answer: There should be no ______ among us.
*16* Is Christ divided? Does He contradict Himself? Answer (yes or no): ______.
*17* Jesus does not contradict Himself, but churches do contradict one another. So are "all the churches following Jesus"? Answer (yes or no): ______.
When a preacher knowingly contradicts himself, we call him a hypocrite. But denominations contradict one another, yet they all say they get their teaching from Jesus. What would that make Jesus? Denominationalism violates God's law against division (Galatians 5:19-21).
>>> Read 1 CORINTHIANS 14:33. <<<
*18* What is God's relationship to confusion? Answer: God is not the author (cause) of ______.
*19* Is the existence of many churches confusing? Answer (yes or no): ______.
*20* Is God the source of all the denominations? Answer (yes or no) ______.
God did not create the modern denominations, so they must have been begun by men. They are not in the Bible, therefore they exist contrary to God's authority. When churches disagree, one may be right and the others wrong, or they may all be wrong, but they cannot all be right!
>>> Read EPHESIANS 4:3-6. <<<
We must strive to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
*21* How many true "God and Fathers" are there? Answer (give a number): There is ______ God and Father.
*22* Can we please God if we think there are many acceptable gods, and we may just worship the god of our choice? Answer (yes or no): ______.
*23&24* How many "bodies" and "faiths" are there? Answer (give a number): There is ______ body and ______ faith.
*25* Can we please God if we think there are hundreds of acceptable bodies and faiths, so we can just take our choice? Answer (yes or no): ______.
There may be many false gods, but there is only one true God. In the same way, there is only one true body (church) and only one true faith. All others are false. [Cf. 1 Corinthians 12:12-20]
>>> Read 2 CORINTHIANS 6:17-7:1. <<<
*26* To be God's true children, what must we do about practices and churches that God has not authorized? Answer: We must come out from among them and be ______.
The Lord established one church, not many denominations. He condemned division. He requires us to follow His true gospel pattern, but Catholic and Protestant churches are departures from His pattern. Therefore, we must not be members of any of these groups. Are you a member of a man-made church? [Cf. 2 John 9-11; Eph. 5:11; Matt. 15:14]

The Existence of Jesus' True Church Today

> Read 1 PETER 1:22-25. <<<

*27* How do we purify our souls? Answer: We purify our souls in obeying the ______.
*28* What is the seed by which we are born again? Answer: We are born again by God's ______.
*29* How long will this seed endure? Answer: ______.
"The seed is the word of God" - Luke 8:11. God's creations, including the church, reproduce by means of seed. When men hear the gospel with receptive hearts, they will believe and obey. As a result, they are "born again" into God's family, the church. (See James 1:18; Luke 8:15; Romans 1:16; 10:17; Mark 16:15,16; John 3:3-5.)
>>> Read GALATIANS 6:7. <<<
*30* How does the seed relate to the harvest? Answer: Whatever a man sows, that is what he will ______.
At any time or place, the same seed always produces the same kind of living thing. Like seed, doctrines reproduce after their own kind. To get the right "fruit," we must plant the right "seed." Denominations do not produce the right fruit, because they plant the wrong seed.
*31* Suppose you believed and obeyed Buddhist doctrine. What would that make you? (a) a Christian, (b) a Hindu, (c) a Buddhist. Answer: ______.
Man-made doctrines reproduce after their own kind and make people members of man-made religious groups.
*32* In the first century, when people obeyed Jesus' gospel, what kind of Christians did they become and what church did they become members of? (a) Lutherans, (b) Catholics, (c) just Christians, members of Jesus' church. Answer: ______.
*33* If you were to obey simply the gospel today, without any man-made changes, what kind of Christian would you become and what church would that make you a member of? (a) the same as in the first century, (b) a modern denomination, (c) no one knows. Answer: ______.
Anytime and anyplace, when a person obeys only the gospel, he becomes a Christian, exactly like people were in the first century. They were not members of any of the modern denominations and neither should people today be. The Lord will add people today to His church, just as He did in the first century (Acts 2:47). These saved people must then work and worship with a faithful local church.

Thursday, January 1, 2015

Jesus Is Lord - Lesson #7

Where Can You Find the Church
That Belongs to Jesus? Part 1

Jesus Is Lord - Lesson #7

Introduction:
Jesus built His church in the first century (Matthew 16:18). All serious Bible students agree that He built only one church, and all saved people then were in that one church. But today there are hundreds of denominations, differing from one another in name, worship, organization, plan of salvation, etc. Yet all claim to follow Jesus and to please God.
The purpose of this study is to determine what Jesus wants us to practice regarding church membership. What was Jesus' church like in the first century? Does the church that Jesus built still exist today? If so, how can we find it and become members of it? What does God think about all the many different modern churches?

How Important is Jesus' Church?

Why should we study about Jesus' church? Some people think the church has nothing to do with salvation, so people can be saved outside the church. How important is the church to Jesus the Lord?
>>> Read ACTS 20:28. <<
*1* How did Jesus make the church His? Answer: He purchased the church with His ______.
*2* Can we be saved without Jesus' blood? Answer (yes or no): ______.
*3* Then can we be saved outside Jesus' church? Answer (yes or no): ______.
Jesus shed His blood to save us from sin (Ephesians 1:7; Revelation 1:5; Romans 5:6-9). But the people who have been saved and purchased by that blood are the people who are in the church!
>>> Read EPHESIANS 5:23,25.<<<
*4* For whom is Christ the Savior? (a) the nation of Israel only, (b) the body (church), (c) all people will be saved. Answer: ______.
Salvation can be obtained only through Jesus' death (Acts 4:12; John 14:6; Hebrews 5:9; 7:25). But Jesus died to save the church. If the church has nothing to do with our salvation, why did the Lord die for it?
The Lord adds to the church those who should be saved - Acts 2:47. Christ is the Savior, but all those whose sins He has forgiven are in the church. Those outside the church are yet in their sins. This is why it is vitally important for us to learn about Jesus' church. (See also Ephesians 3:10,11; Colossians 1:12-14; Hebrews 10:25; etc.)

For more information about the importance of the church, see the links at the end of this lesson.

The Word "Church" Has Different Meanings.

In the Bible, the "church" always refers to a group of people, never to a physical building. The word has two primary uses:
1. The church universally - the body of all saved people everywhere (Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 5:22-25; Acts 2:47).
2. The church locally - a congregation of saved people in a certain area who meet, work, and worship together (Jerusalem, Corinth, etc. - Acts 8:1; 13:1; 1 Corinthians 1:2; Galatians 1:2; Revelation 1:4).
We will study many examples of this word as we proceed.
First let us study the characteristics of the New Testament church, then we will study the origin of the modern denominations.

Part I: What Should Jesus' Church Be Like?

If the police were searching for a missing person, how would they identify the correct person? They would need a description or list of identifying characteristics: age, name, height, weight, etc. Likewise, if Jesus' church exists today, how could we identify it?
>>> Read MATTHEW 7:15-21. <<<
*5* How can false teachers be identified? (a) by their outward appearance, (b) by their unkind manners, (c) by their fruits. Answer: ______.
*6* What are the "fruits" of God's followers? (a) they do the will of the Father, (b) they just call Jesus "Lord," (c) they just believe. Answer: ______.
The true church can be identified because it teaches and practices the will of God. By learning Jesus' will for His church, we can know the identifying marks of His church. Consider these characteristics:

A. The Doctrinal Standard of the Church

What law or rules should the church follow to determine what it believes, teaches, and practices?

>>> Read EPHESIANS 1:22,23. <<<
*7* Who is Head over all things to the church? (a) John the Baptist, (b) Peter, (c) Jesus, (d) Mohammed, (e) a human headquarters. Answer: ______.
*8* Whose control, then, should the church submit to? Answer: The control of ______.
>>> Read COLOSSIANS 3:17. <<<
*9* What must be done in Jesus' name (by His authority)? Answer: ______we do, in word or deed.
Since Jesus built and purchased the church, it must follow His directions. Remember, His will is revealed in the New Testament.
(See also Ephesians 5:23; John 12:48; Acts 3:22,23; Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 6:46; Colossians 1:18; 2:19; Hebrews 5:9; 1 Corinthians 14:37.)

May the church follow man-made laws?

>>> Read 2 JOHN 9. <<<
*10* What happens if we do not abide in the teachings of Jesus? Answer: We do not have ______.
>>> Read MATTHEW 15:9. <<<
*11* What does God think of worship that is based on man-made teachings? (a) it is vain, (b) He encourages it, (c) it doesn't matter. Answer: ______.
>>> Read GALATIANS 1:8,9. <<<
*12* What happens if we preach a different gospel? Answer: We are ______.
*13* Would a church be honoring Jesus as Lord if it follows doctrines or practices not found in the Bible? Answer (yes or no): ______.
If Jesus' church exists today, it must strive to listen to all His teachings and must avoid practices not found in His teachings.
(See Revelation 22:18,19; Proverbs 14:12; 3:5,6; Jeremiah 10:23.)

If you would like to learn more about what authority the church should follow, please see the links at the end of this lesson.

B. The Origin or Beginning of the Church

>>> Read MATTHEW 16:15-18.<<<

*14* What did Jesus promise to build? (a) a social club, (b) an entertainment, recreational club, (c) His church, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*15* Did the church exist when Jesus said this? Answer (yes or no): ______.
*16* How many churches did Jesus promise to build? (a) one, (b) ten, (c) hundreds. Answer: ______.
This passage and all passages before Acts 2 speak of the church as coming in the future (see also Isaiah 2:2,3; Daniel 2:44; Mark 1:15; 9:1; Acts 1:4-8).
>>> Read ACTS 2:47. <<<
*17* Who was adding people to His body (the church)? (Cf. v38,41.) Answer: The ______.
Many other passages after Acts 2 speak of the church as being in existence (see Acts 5:11; 8:1-3; 11:22,26; Colossians 1:13; etc.).
So the church that belongs to Jesus began in Jerusalem on Pentecost after Jesus' ascension.
*18* Suppose men begin a church at a place and time other than Jerusalem on Pentecost. Would it be Jesus' church? Answer (yes or no): ______.
If Jesus' church exists today, it must be the church that He began on Pentecost in Jerusalem.

C. The Names or Designations of the Church

Names are important to God. He sometimes named people before they were born, or changed their names later (Genesis 17:5,15,19; 32:27,28; Luke 1:13; Matt. 1:21; Isaiah 62:2; etc.). What terms or phrases does the Lord want people to use to refer to the church and its members?

Terms used for the church:

The church of Christ or of God (Matthew 16:18; Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 1:2; etc.).
The house or family of God (1 Timothy 3:15; Ephesians 2:16,19; Galatians 6:10).
The kingdom of Christ (Colossians 1:13; Matthew 16:18,19; Revelation 1:9; Hebrews 12:28).
The body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22,23; 4:4-6; Colossians 1:18).
Note that all these terms give honor to God the Father or the Son, and show our relationship to them.

Terms used for individual members of the church:

Disciples (Acts 11:26; 20:7; 8:3; 9:1).
Children of God (2 Corinthians 6:16-18; 1 John 3:2).
Christians (Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16).
>>> Read 1 CORINTHIANS 1:10-13. <<<
*19* What sin occurred at Corinth? (a) groups were named after men, (b) men were exalted instead of Jesus, (c) division, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
Naming the church after a particular doctrine likewise violates the principles of this passage, promotes division, and fails to exalt God.
One of the fruits of Jesus' church was that it wore names that glorify God and Christ. It never wore names that honored men, were invented by men, or exalted some particular Bible doctrine.

D. The Steps to Enter the Church

Some churches teach that there are things a person must do to be saved, and then afterward there are other things he must do to join the church. But the church is the body of all saved people (Ephesians 5:23,25; Acts 20:28; Colossians 1:13). Therefore, whenever one receives the forgiveness of his sins, he automatically becomes a member of the church at the same time and by the same steps.

You cannot be voted into the Lord's church, you cannot purchase membership in it, and you cannot "join" it. You simply obey the gospel and let God add you (Acts 2:47).
To be forgiven of sins, one must take the following steps:

* Hear the gospel (John 6:44,45; Romans 10:17).
* Believe it (Romans 1:16; Hebrews 11:6;John 8:24).
* Repent (Acts 17:30; 2 Corinthians 7:10; 2 Peter 3:9).
* Confess Christ (Romans 10:9,10; Acts 8:37).
* Be baptized (immersed) for the purpose of receiving forgiveness (Acts 2:38; 22:16; Mark 16:16; Romans 6:3,4; 1 Peter 3:21).

At baptism, one's sins are forgiven and the Lord then adds him to the church (Acts 2:38,47; 1 Corinthians 12:13).

*20* Suppose a church teaches some other way for people to be saved. Would it be honoring Jesus as Lord, and would the people who believed the doctrine of that church really be saved? Answer (yes or no): ______.
If Jesus' church exists today, it must still teach just what the gospel says about salvation.

E. The Worship Offered in Church Assemblies

The Lord taught His church to do five things when they meet.

1. Teaching

>>>Read ACTS 2:42.<<<
*21* In what activities did these disciples continue steadfastly? (a) the apostles' doctrine, (b) prayer, (c) breaking of bread, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
We should teach only God's word. (Cf. Acts 20:7; 11:26; Heb. 10:25.)

2. Prayer (see Acts 2:42 above)

In Bible study, God talks to us. In prayer, we talk to God. (Cf. 1 Corinthians 14:15; Philippians 4:6; Acts 4:23-31; 1 Timothy 2:5.)

3. Giving

>>>Read 1 CORINTHIANS 16:1,2.<<<
*22* How did the church obtain financial income? (a) raffles and bingo, (b) bake sales and rummages, (c) collections, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*23* When were the collections taken up? (a) on the seventh day of the week, (b) on the first day of the week, (c) as often as possible. Answer: ______.
*24* How did the members decide how much to give? Answer: Each one gave according as he had ______.
The church took up collections from the members on the first day of the week. Each member gave generously according to prosperity. The church never used tithing (requiring 10%), nor man-made fund-raising methods like bingo, raffles, rummages, etc. (Cf. 2 Cor. 8:1-5; 9:6,7.)

4. Lord's Supper (communion or breaking of bread)

>>> Read 1 CORINTHIANS 11:23-26. <<<
*25&26* What do the bread and cup remind us of? Answer: The bread reminds us of Jesus' ______. The cup reminds us of Jesus' ______.
*27* May we use bacon and eggs on the Lord's table? Answer (yes or no): ______.
We should eat the bread and drink the fruit of the vine in memory of Jesus' body and blood. (Cf. Matthew 26:17-30; Acts 2:42.)
>>> Read ACTS 20:7. <<<
*28* When did the disciples break bread? (a) at Easter and Christmas, (b) on the last day of the week, (c) on the first day of the week. Answer: ______.
*29* How often does the first day of the week occur? Answer (give a number): The first day of the week comes (give a number) ______ time each week.
When God specified memorial feasts, He always told people when to do them. If He said to do it on a certain day of a certain month of the year, it would be an annual feast (Ex. 12:6,14,24ff; Lev. 23:24,27). If He said to do it on a certain day of the month, it would be a monthly observance (Ezek. 46:1,6,7). If He said to do it on a certain day of the week, then it would be observed weekly (like the sabbath - Ex. 20:8-11).
Likewise, God has revealed that disciples had the Lord's supper on the first day of the week, so we should do it as often as that day occurs. The collection and communion occurred on the same day. When churches today practice annual or monthly communion, do they also take up collections only annually or monthly?

For more information about when to have the Lord's supper, see the links at the end of this lesson.

5. Singing

>>> Read EPHESIANS 5:19.<<<
*30* What act of worship is commanded here? Answer: The verse instructs us to ______ and make melody in our hearts to the Lord.
*31* What purpose(s) are accomplished by singing? (a) praising God and teaching others, (b) showing off musical ability, (c) entertainment to draw big crowds, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
Every New Testament passage that mentions music in worship, specifies singing (Colossians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 14:15; Romans 15:9; Hebrews 2:12; James 5:13). There are two kinds of music - singing (vocal) and playing (instrumental).
*32* Since Jesus expressly says to "sing," are we honoring Jesus if we add another kind of music (playing on instruments)? Answer (yes or no): ______.
To use instruments of music in worship is to follow human authority. It fails to honor Jesus just like bacon and eggs on the Lord's Table.

For more information about instrumental music in worship, see the links at the end of this lesson.

>>> Read HEBREWS 10:25. <<<

*33* What error should Christians avoid? Answer: We should not forsake the ______ of ourselves together.
*34* Would a church be following Jesus as Lord if it worshipped in ways that are not found in the gospel? Answer (yes or no): ______.
If Jesus' church exists today, it must worship by this same pattern.

F. The Work or Mission of the Church

>>> Read ACTS 11:26. <<<

*35* What work did the church in Antioch accomplish? Answer: The church assembled so people could be ______.
The church is the "pillar and ground of the truth" - 1 Timothy 3:15. It teaches the gospel to the lost and edifies the members (see also Acts 11:22; 20:7; Hebrews 10:24,25; Ephesians 4:11-16; Philippians 4:14-18). The church also cares for its own physically needy members (Acts 4:32-35; 6:1-6; 1 Corinthians 16:1,2; 2 Corinthians 8 and 9; 1 Timothy 5:16).
The primary work of the church is spiritual. It helps people be right with God so they can receive eternal life. If Jesus' church exists today, it is not a social or recreational club nor a general welfare society. Any church that does these other works fails to honor the Lord. (See also John 18:36; 6:63,27; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5.)

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Steps to Spiritual Maturity:

How We Grow up in Christ

What does it take to grow up and become spiritually mature? Why do some Christians not grow as they should? God's word presents steps we can take toward growth and spiritual maturity by Bible study, patience, and diligent practice of good works.

Introduction:

People understand the concept of growth in the physical development of humans, and we know why it is important.

Babies are immature physically and mentally, but we expect them to develop. If they don't, there is a problem.
My best buddy in high school did not grow and might have been nearly a midget. But in his senior year, doctors gave him shots to make him grow.

Spiritual growth is a similar concept but is far more important.

Growth is development or improvement toward a goal called "maturity" (or, in the Bible, "perfection"). When one is "born again" as a child of God, he is spiritually immature. As time passes, he should develop the qualities or abilities which the Bible says characterize the mature. A congregation matures as individual members mature.
Many Scriptures describe the need to grow and mature spiritually:
Ephesians 4:14,15 - Be no longer children, but grow up in Christ.
2 Peter 3:18 - but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
2 Thessalonians 1:3 - The Thessalonians grew exceedingly in faith.
Philippians 1:9 - Paul prayed for their love to abound more and more.
Many problems result when members fail to grow: some go back to the world, others cause strife because of ignorance or become stumblingblocks because of irregular attendance, worldliness, or indifference.

The purpose of this lesson is to study the steps each Christian should take to grow spiritually.

Just as a baby needs to do certain things to grow physically, so Christians need certain kinds of activities to grow spiritually. When members don't grow, it is because they lack one or more of these.

I. A DESIRE TO GROW

A. We Will Never Grow Unless We Want to Grow

In the physical realm, children WANT to grow.

"I want to grow up to be just like Mommy/Daddy/Michael Jordan..." "I can't wait till I'm 16 so I can drive."
Parents and kids become so excited when kids learn something new - the first step, first word, draw picture, etc. Everyone wants them to develop new abilities.
Parents sometimes use this to encourage children. When Tim was small, he wanted to drink milk because Bill Buckner (Cubs' first baseman) advertised it.

Likewise, in spiritual matters, Christians must WANT to grow.

1 Peter 2:2 - Desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.
Some seem to like being spiritual babies. They don't want to grow. It's easy to be a baby - no responsibility. Others feed you, clothe you, change your diaper. In the church, you don't have to teach, rebuke sin, or do work. It's a free ride!
But being a baby is not the goal of life. We are born babies so we can grow up and be productive and useful. Likewise, we are born again, so we can become mature Christians, actively serving the Lord.
One of the conditions for becoming a child of God is REPENTANCE. One must determine to turn from sin and GO TO WORK in God's vineyard. Then one must bring forth the FRUITS of repentance. This will lead us to grow and improve in God's work. Otherwise, we have not accomplished our purpose for becoming children of God.
1 Peter 2:21 - Jesus set an example for us, and we should follow in His steps. We should ask ourselves, "Don't I want to grow up to be spiritually strong like Jesus?"

B. We Must Maintain This Desire to Grow.

Some members who once wanted to grow, may lose that desire.

They may start off on fire for the Lord, but lose their zeal. They develop a spirit of indifference or negligence.
Others develop a level of maturity and stagnate. They are satisfied, thinking no more growth is needed.

The Scriptures teach that growth is always needed.

Philippians 3:12-14 - Even Paul, as mature as he was, did not consider himself to have achieved perfection (maturity) such that he could cease striving to improve. He forgot past achievements (and failures) and pressed on to greater accomplishments.
Matthew 26:31-35 - Peter thought he had reached a level where he would never deny Jesus. But that very night he denied Him three times.
1 Corinthians 10:12 - Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. Christians never reach the point we are so mature that we cannot fall.
One of the main reasons Christians do not grow is that they do not see the NEED for growing. They have no desire to work and serve to the full extent of their ability. When people develop a burning hunger and thirst to work for the Lord, then they will develop the other steps they need to grow.
Do you have that burning desire to accomplish more for the Lord? Have you set specific goals of work you want to accomplish for God, improvements to make, new levels to reach?

II. NOURISHMENT

A. We Need Spiritual Food from God's Word.

A child cannot grow physically without proper food.

Good parents are concerned about proper nutrition. They want children to eat what is good, not bad for them. We are touched by pictures of children starving due to poverty.
Most children WANT nourishment. Babies cry for food. Once as a child I got so hungry I cried, and my mother felt really bad.
Even adults know we need food, and don't like to go long without it. We want it every day, regularly, several times a day.

Likewise spiritually we cannot grow without feeding on God's Word.

1 Peter 2:2 - As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.
2 Peter 3:18 - Grow in the grace and KNOWLEDGE of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Matthew 4:4 - Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.
[Eph. 4:15; Matt. 5:6]

B. To Get This Nourishment, We Must Study the Bible and Attend Church Meetings.

Scriptures show the need for regular nourishment.

Hebrews 5:11-14 - Christians were rebuked for not growing as they should have, because they had not studied. Time and again members fall away or are spiritual midgets because they do not eat properly.
Acts 17:11 - Bereans were able to determine whether truth was taught because they searched the Scriptures DAILY. We need REGULAR nourishment.
Psalm 1:1,2 - Meditate on God's word day and night. Children and adults need physical food regularly, and get very upset without it. But are we content to go for days at a time without feeding on God's word? [119:47,48,95-99; Josh 1:8]
Do we make use of the opportunities the church provides for nourishment? I never ceased to be amazed when the church provides a spiritual feast, and members choose to do other things. How often do we miss the regular meals provided for our bellies?

Take this test to check your spiritual nourishment.

How much time did you spend this week watching TV?
How much time watching sports or entertainment, or reading the paper, magazines, etc.?
How much time did you spend on some hobby or outside interest, that may not be immoral but is not necessary?
How many hours did you spend studying your Bible?
How many services of the church did you attend? How many did you miss that you could have attended?
Which do you nourish the best: your spirit or your body? Are you feeding your mind on God's word or pleasures?
Christians need regular nourishment from God's word to grow.

III. EXERCISE AND PRACTICE

A. Exercise and Practice Are Essential to Physical Development.

Athletes & musicians know they must exercise and practice to improve.

Developing skills requires continual repetition: playing a song, throwing pitches, shooting baskets.
Athletes run, lift weights, and practice hour after hour in order to grow strong and develop endurance.
Illustration: A man once had an apartment next to a professional cello player. He thought it must be exciting to play in an orchestra. Then he listened as the man practiced the scales, exercises, and songs endlessly.

Children practice skills over and over to learn them.

Children learning to walk try again and again. They are proud to learn a new word, then they use it till they drive you crazy! They want to play the same thing over and over: play the same tape recording, put the clothes on a doll.
Parents encourage children to repeat what they must learn: drill math facts, spelling, reading, piano. They get tired, but we encourage them because that's how they learn.
"Practice makes perfect" - or at least it promotes improvement.

B. Exercise and Practice Are Essential to Spiritual Growth.

Scriptures:

Hebrews 5:14 - Those who are of full age, by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Growth requires exercise as well as nourishment.
1 Timothy 4:7 - Exercise yourself toward godliness.
Like children, athletes, and musicians, we must work again and again at applying Bible principles to become effective in the Lord's work.

Applications:

To learn to TEACH, we must do it repeatedly: teach your children, home studies, Bible classes, preach sermons, again and again.
To learn to LEAD SINGING, practice songs at home, sing with your family, lead during church meetings over and over.
To understand the BIBLE, study it again and again, talk to others, drill yourself, memorize. Get in and dig.
To learn to PRAY, do it over and over.
Kids may not be good at activities at first, but parents encourage them to do it over and over. Likewise, older members must encourage the newer ones to use their talents. They may not be skilled at first, but they learn by doing.
We need to encourage teachers, preachers, and song leaders. Don't complain. Surely don't stay home. They need the practice!

IV. TIME AND PATIENCE

By definition, growth requires TIME. It is progress and development as time passes. Several important lessons follow:

A. Don't Expect to Reach Your Goal Overnight.

Children do not become full-grown instantaneously.

At birth they are so small you can hold them in a little basket. Soon they are outgrowing new clothes every month. Eventually they can wear their parents' clothes or even larger. But it takes time.
Sometimes children become impatient. "I can't wait till I'm 18 (or 21)." We say, "Take your time. It will come soon enough." Time passes and, sure enough, what they were waiting for has come and gone, and they're looking back wondering how the time passed so fast!

Likewise spiritually, do not expect maturity overnight.

James 1:4 - To become perfect and mature (entire), lacking nothing, we must have patience.
Some new-born Christians want to know everything and do everything right away. They may not be willing to take the TIME to STUDY and DEVELOP ability. Yet they want to be just like the mature members - and want other members to treat them with the same respect that they do mature members - before they have taken time to grow.
Sometimes older members are impatient with new members. We don't understand why new converts have trouble with some basic concepts. Then sometimes these new members explain, "I never was really taught what the BIBLE said before." They have no background in the Scriptures, and it takes TIME to grow.
Remember that people who may be mature today did not get that way overnight. It took years of study and practice. And new converts will not become mature overnight. It will take time.
New members should not get discouraged and give up. Older members should not be impatient or overly demanding. Remember how our children took time to grow, and how we had to show patience with their immature ways as they grew. But growth will come as long as people are trying and we give them time.

B. Don't Become Discouraged by Mistakes and Rebukes.

Children make many mistakes and must often be told they are wrong.

How often does a child fall while learning to walk? They fall again and again, gathering bumps and bruises. They spill their milk, don't hold their spoon properly, fall off their bikes, and come to bat in the bottom of the ninth with the winning run in scoring position and strike out.
Parents are continually correcting, instructing, and punishing, till we almost feel sorry for the kids. Growing up is tough!
If kids are going to become mature, they have to keep going in spite of mistakes and rebukes. And someday they will look back on their own childish mistakes and just smile.

Likewise, new converts will make many mistakes and must often be told they are wrong.

Some of the greatest Bible characters committed terrible errors and had to be rebuked.
* Moses made excuses when God called him to lead Israel out of bondage.
* David committed adultery with Bathsheeba and was rebuked by Nathan.
* Peter denied Jesus three times.
* Paul persecuted Christians before his conversion.
* Thomas doubted Jesus' resurrection.
* All the apostles forsook Jesus when He was arrested and crucified.
Matthew 16:21-23 - Shortly after he had confessed Jesus and been highly praised (v15-18), Peter contradicted Jesus and was severely rebuked.
Yet all of these are remembered as some of God's greatest servants.
Great servants are not people who live without ever sinning, but people who learn from their mistakes and go on to serve God faithfully.
Judas betrayed Jesus and is remembered as a traitor. Peter denied Jesus three times and is remembered as a great apostle. What is the difference? Judas, after betraying Jesus, hung himself. Peter, after denying Jesus, repented and went to work preaching the gospel.
Proverbs 29:1 - A person is destroyed, not simply because he errs, but because he becomes stubborn when he is rebuked and will not repent. What is needed is repentance and patience to learn to do right.

Conclusion

The story is told of a little boy who fell out of bed. Asked what happened, he said, "I guess I just stayed too close to the gettin'-in place." That is exactly why many people fall away from God after their conversion - they stay too close to the "gettin'-in" place and do not grow to maturity.
It is no shame to be a baby, if you were born a few months ago. But if a person has been a child of God for several years and has not grown, he has a problem.
Everyone needs to grow as a Christian, and everyone can grow, if he/she simply applies the Bible principles of growth.

Thursday, November 6, 2014

"Teach Us to Pray" - Part 1

Following Jesus -- Course A, Lesson #4

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.

I. What Should We Pray About?

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.)

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

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

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Antioch Spreads the Word - Acts 11:27-13: 52

Introduction:
In Acts 11 the church in Antioch had begun. In this study, the focus will return briefly to Jerusalem, then we will observe as the Antioch church begins its work of spreading the gospel.

I. Caring for the Needy - Acts 11:27-30

>>> Please read Acts 11:27-30. <<<
*1* What problem did Agabus predict would occur? He predicted (a) a famine (dearth), (b) Jesus' second coming, (c) a flood, (d) a plague of grasshoppers, (e) a fire, (f) all of the preceding. Answer: ______.
*2* What did the Antioch church do about it? Answer: Antioch sent relief to the ______ in Judea.
*3* To whom were funds sent? (a) central headquarters, (b) a benevolent society, (c) elders of the churches in Judea, (d) all of these. Answer: ______.
Comments: We have earlier read about local churches helping needy disciples (Acts 2:44,45; 4:32-35; 6:1-7). We remember that churches emphasized the spiritual work of helping souls please God. Churches did help the needy, but as discussed in Acts 6, they did not let this divert their focus from their spiritual work. They did this by limiting their benevolent work to needy disciples. Individual Christians helped relatives and other needy people, but local church benevolence was always to brethren in Christ (cf. 1 Tim. 5:3-16).
The Antioch church gathered funds, each person giving according to his ability (cf. 1 Cor. 16:1,2; 2 Cor. 9:6,7). The funds were sent to the elders of the churches in Judea. This is our first introduction to the work of elders. We will see later that this term refers to men in each local church who were appointed to oversee the church's work (Acts 14:23; 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-3). They were mature, experienced Christians who possessed leadership qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9.
Since these men were appointed in each local church, it follows that each church in Judea would have had its own elders. This in turn demonstrates the concept of independence among local churches. Notice in Acts 11:22-30 that each local church functioned without any central organization or governing body of any kind. The Jerusalem church sent a preacher to Antioch (v22) and the Antioch church spread the gospel (v24-26) without the guidance or control of any missionary board. Likewise, needy members were cared for without the need for any central benevolent institutions. Local churches supervised their own work, but never sent financial donations to any central institutions of any kind.
As illustrated here, local churches did cooperate, but only in ways that respected local church independence according to God's will. We will learn more later, but note here that churches sent funds to other churches only in cases of emergency to help needy saints in the receiving church. And even then each church was free to oversee its own work under its own elders. Never did one church or one eldership oversee the work of another church or a centralized work for many churches.
We will return later to learn more about this Antioch church.

II. Persecution in Jerusalem - Acts 12:1-19

James Slain and Peter Arrested

>>> Please read Acts 12:1-5. <<<
*4&5* Who caused the next persecution, and whom did he kill? Answer: A king named ______ killed ______, the brother of John.
*6* What did he do to Peter? (a) killed him, (b) imprisoned him, (c) beheaded him, (d) beat him, (e) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
Comments: The Herods were a family of Jewish kings. The Romans ruled Palestine, but they allowed some Herods to remain in power if they were cooperative. This Herod was Agrippa I.
Herod raised a persecution against the church, killing James the brother of John (cf. Matt. 4:21,22). This was the first recorded death of an apostle. Herod then imprisoned Peter in the charge of four squads of soldiers. Imagine how severely this would affect the Jerusalem church!
Verse 4 in the KJV refers to "Easter," however this has nothing to do with the modern religious holy day of that name. Rather, it refers to the Jewish feast of the Passover. (1) V3 calls it the "days of unleavened bread," which was the Passover (Ex. 12). (2) All modern translations say "Passover." (3) The original Greek word is everywhere else translated "Passover." (4) There is no indication in the context that this was a Christian holy day. Why would Herod, as a Jewish enemy of the gospel, have any respect for a Christian holy day?
An annual holy day in celebration of Jesus' resurrection is unknown in the Scriptures. In fact, Christians kept no annual holy days of any kind. Instead, they remembered Jesus' death in the Lord's supper on the first day of each week (Acts 20:7). The modern holy day of Easter was originally a pagan holy day, which was later adopted by Catholicism (see any encyclopedia). All annual religious holy days exist without Bible authority (cf. Galatians 4:8-11; 1:8,9; Matthew 15:9,13; 2 John 9-11).

Peter's Release

>>> Please read Acts 12:6-11. <<<
*7* How was Peter held captive? (a) two chains, (b) two soldiers, (c) guards outside the door, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*8* Who released Peter and led him out of the prison? Answer: An ______ awoke Peter and led him out.
Comment: As Peter lay sleeping in the prison, an angel awoke him and released his chains. The angel led him past the guards and out the iron gate, which opened by itself. The angel led him a ways from the prison and then left him. For other examples of miraculous releases from prison see Acts 5:17-25; 16:19-34.

Peter Finds the Disciples

>>> Please read Acts 12:12-19. <<<
*9&10* Where did Peter find the disciples, and what were they doing? Answer: He went to the home of ______ where people were ______.
*11&12* Who answered the door, and what did people say of her story? Answer: ______ answered. When they heard her story, people thought she was ______.
Comments: Peter went to the home of Mary, the mother of Mark. Christians had gathered there to pray, presumably for Peter. Yet when he appeared, at first they did not believe the answer to their own prayer! After telling them what had happened, Peter went elsewhere.
Next day, Herod and the soldiers were shocked that Peter was gone. The penalty for losing a prisoner in those days was death.

III. The Death of Herod - Acts 12:20-25

>>> Please read Acts 12:20-25. <<<
*13&14* What caused God to be angry with Herod? Answer: He allowed people to call him a ______, not a ______.
*15* What happened to Herod? (a) God killed him, (b) he lived to a ripe old age, (c) his son assassinated him, (d) nothing happened to him. Answer: ______.
Comments: Herod made a speech for the people of Tyre and Sidon. To please him, they said he was a god, not a man. God killed him for allowing this, instead of giving glory to God. God is never pleased when people worship religiously anyone but Him (Matt. 4:10). This confirms our previous conclusion that we should not honor men religiously in ways that only God should be honored (Acts 10:25,26).
This ends the second major section of the book of Acts. The gospel had been spread from Jerusalem throughout Judea and Samaria. Next we will see it spread to the uttermost parts of the earth (Acts 1:8).

IV. Start of Paul's First Journey - Acts 13:1-12

(Note: A Bible or Bible atlas with good maps will be helpful in tracing Paul's journeys throughout the rest of the book of Acts.)
>>> Please read Acts 13:1-12. <<<
*16* Who called Barnabas and Saul to their work of preaching? (a) a missionary society, (b) the Holy Spirit, (c) the earthly headquarters. Answer: ______.
*17&18* What two men did they meet on the island of Cyprus? Answer: The proconsul ______ wanted the truth but a sorcerer named ______ opposed it.
*19* What was Elymas guilty of? (a) deceit, (b) opposing righteousness, (c) perverting God's ways, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*20* What happened to him? Answer: Paul struck Elymas with temporary ______.
Comment: The church in Antioch of Syria had a major role in the work of preaching throughout the world. The Holy Spirit began the work by instructing Barnabas and Saul to go on a preaching journey.
They first traveled to Cyprus, an island in the Mediterranean Sea southwest of Antioch. There they met a Roman ruler named Sergius Paulus, who wanted to hear the gospel. But a sorcerer named Elymas withstood the truth. The truth has always had opponents, and as in the case of Simon in Acts 8, the opponent in this story was a sorcerer.
Note that Saul is called "Paul" for the first time in v9 ("Paul" is the Greek form of the Hebrew name "Saul"). Paul firmly rebuked Elymas for his deceit and error. Sorcery is clearly identified in Scripture as being opposed to truth and based on deceit (cf. Gal. 5:19-21). Faithful preachers have always firmly rebuked error (2 Tim. 4:2-4; Rev. 3:19).
Paul did a miracle by striking Elymas temporarily blind. As in Acts 8:5-13, true prophets, who had the power to do true miracles, were perfectly willing to use their power in the presence of unbelievers and false teachers. They did so to validate their message by proving the superior power of true miracles over the power false prophets.
Note that not all miracles gave physical benefits to people. Some actually caused problems as punishment for sin. But all served the purpose of confirming a message or teaching to be from God (Acts 14:3). What modern "faith healer" will do miracles today like the one Paul did here?
Note that, on the basis of the evidence of the miracle, Sergius Paulus did in fact become a believer.

V. Sermon in Antioch of Pisidia - Acts 13:13-52

The Sermon

>>> Please read Acts 13:13-22. <<<
*21* In what city did Paul preach the sermon found in vv 14ff? Answer: Paul preached in ______.
*22* What had God done when Israel was enslaved in Egypt? Answer: God brought them from Egypt to the land of ______.
*23* What rulers did God give Israel at first? (a) kings, (b) Caesars, (c) judges, (d) presidents, (e) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*24* Why were they eventually given kings? Answer: They received a king because the people ______ for a king.
Comments: From Cyprus the company sailed northwest to Perga in Asia Minor (see a map). There John Mark left the company. This later became an occasion of conflict between Barnabas and Saul.
They traveled from there to Antioch in Pisidia (as distinguished from Antioch in Syria). There they entered a synagogue to find an opportunity to teach. Note that, in Paul's preaching trips, in every new city he would go first to the Jewish synagogue. This almost always led to teaching opportunities.
Some try to use the example of Paul to prove that Christians today must observe the seventh-day sabbath. However, these were not assemblies of Christians, but assemblies of unconverted Jews. They observed the sabbath, because the Old Testament was given especially to the Jews (not to all nations - Ex. 31:13-17), and they did not know the Old Testament had been removed by Jesus (Col. 2:14-17; Heb. 10:9,10). Paul knew the law had been removed, but he attended the synagogues to find a good place to begin teaching the gospel.
Given an opportunity to speak, Paul reviewed the Jews' history as recorded in the Old Testament, much like Stephen did in Acts 7. He told how God had freed Israel from Egyptian slavery and gave them the land of Canaan. They were ruled by judges until they insisted that God give them a king (1 Sam. 8). Their first two kings were Saul and then David.
>>> Please read Acts 13:23-31. <<<
*25* Jesus was sent in fulfillment of a promise to whom (vv 22,23)? Answer: Jesus was promised to be a descendant of ______.
*26* Who came before Jesus to prepare the people for Him? Answer: ______ came before Jesus and prophesied of Him.
*27* Why did Jews condemn Jesus to death? (a) they did not know Him, (b) they misunderstood the prophets, (c) both of the preceding. Answer: ______.
Comment: In fulfillment of a promise He had made to David, God sent Jesus to be a Savior to Israel. This states the main thesis of Paul's sermon, as it was in most sermons among unbelievers: Jesus is the Savior of mankind and the appointed Ruler (Christ) of God's people.
Paul then began to accumulate evidence to support his claims regarding Jesus. John the Baptist was sent by God to prepare the way for Jesus, and He testified that Jesus was greater than John himself. Nevertheless, the Jewish people and their leaders killed Jesus, thereby unknowingly fulfilling Old Testament prophecy. But God raised Jesus from the dead, and He then appeared to many witnesses who were sure to know Him since they had known Him for years beforehand.
Paul here lists three proofs to sustain His claim that Jesus was sent by God to give people salvation: (1) the testimony of John, (2) fulfilled prophecy, (3) the resurrection.
>>> Please read Acts 13:32-41. <<<
*28* Who fulfilled the prophecy that he would see no corruption? (a) David, (b) Paul, (c) Peter, (d) Jesus, (e) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*29* What blessing did Jesus bring for the people (vv 38,39)? Answer: Through Jesus ______ was proclaimed to the people.
*30* With what warning did Paul conclude his sermon (vv 40,41)? Answer: Paul warned that they might not ______, even though the message was told to them.
Comments: As Paul drew toward the end of his sermon, he continued quoting other prophecies that Jesus had fulfilled. One of them predicted that He would not see corruption. Just as Peter had done in Acts 2, Paul said this could not be a prophecy about David himself (who spoke it), because David saw corruption. The fulfillment was that, though Jesus died, yet He was raised from the dead. This fulfilled the prophecy and was a great miracle of itself.
These proofs confirmed Paul's claim that Jesus was the Christ whom God had sent. The blessing the people could receive as a result was forgiveness of sins (v38). They could be truly justified from sin, a blessing that the Old Testament law could not provide (v39). Hebrews 10:1-18 explains this point further. The law gave people commands to obey and then condemned them for disobeying (Rom. 3:10-23). Yet the animal sacrifices it required could not give lasting forgiveness; rather, sins were remembered again a year later. The blessing of Jesus' sacrifice is that it can forgive sins so they are never remembered again. This is the great blessing that God had planned throughout history to bring upon all Jews and Gentiles through Jesus.
But this blessing can only be received by those who are willing to meet the conditions that God has ordained. The first of these conditions was that people must believe in Jesus (v39). This condition would, in turn, require several other specific conditions as shown in other examples (repentance, confession, and baptism), but Paul emphasized faith here because these were unbelieving Jews. He then concluded the sermon by warning them of the danger that they might not believe, even after God's work had been explained to them. This too had been prophesied in the Old Testament.

The Effect of the Sermon

>>> Please read Acts 13:42-52. <<<
*31* Who wanted to hear the gospel the following sabbath? Answer: Nearly the whole ______ came to hear the message.
*32* How did the Jews react to this response by the city? Answer: Jews were filled with envy and ______ the teaching.
*33* What did Paul and Barnabas say they would do next? (a) nothing, (b) preach to Gentiles, (c) go home, (d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*34* Why did they eventually have to leave town? Answer: They left because the Jews instigated ______ against them.
Comments: In response to Paul's sermon, many Jews and proselytes (Gentiles converted to Judaism) continued to learn the message. The following week nearly the whole city came to hear. This aroused the Jews to such jealousy that they opposed and contradicted the teaching, so Paul and Barnabas determined to preach primarily to the Gentiles.
Note in v46 that those who reject the gospel have judged themselves to be unworthy of eternal life. By contrast, those who were receptive to the gospel were appointed to eternal life (v48). Some conclude this refers to Calvinistic unconditional predestination of people regardless of their choice or character. But people are often appointed or ordained to a position conditionally based on their characteristics (cf. Acts 14:23 to 1 Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). Unconditional election would constitute respect of persons (cf. Acts 10:34,35; Rom. 2:6-11). We have seen throughout Acts that people choose for themselves how to respond to the gospel.
Jewish persecution finally compelled Paul and Barnabas to flee.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Opposition to Jesus Grows

Opposition to Jesus GrowsLesson 2

Jesus Heals a Paralytic

>>> Read Mark 2:1-12. <<<
As a result of His teaching and miracles, Jesus' popularity grew rapidly. So many wanted to hear Him that they filled the house in Capernaum where He was teaching and crowded around it. Just then, five men arrived, eager to see Jesus too. One of them was paralyzed and the other four carried him on a stretcher. It was impossible for them to get in through the door, so they climbed up on the roof, dug a hole in it and let the paralytic down through the opening they had created. You can imagine the commotion among the crowd in the house below.
When Jesus saw the faith they had demonstrated, He told the lame man that his sins were forgiven. That was probably not what the man had expected, but it is every man's greatest need. The scribes who were present thought Jesus had blasphemed because God alone can forgive sins. Jesus read their minds and asked: Which is easier to say--your sins are forgiven, or get up and walk? To prove His ability to forgive sins (something invisible and therefore impossible to verify), He healed the paralytic who then got up and walked. Jesus proved His power to conquer invisible, spiritual problems by overcoming a visible, physical problem. The crowd was dumbfounded. They had never seen anything to compare with Jesus.
Note -- Who will reach Jesus? Consider the five men as they approached the house in which Jesus was teaching. They had come in order to see Him, but their way to Jesus was blocked by a big obstacle: the crowd. Many would have simply turned around and gone back home. Not these men. They were determined, even desperate, in their desire to see Jesus. Their procedure, unroofing the roof, was radical but it worked. Even today, those who want to come to Jesus frequently encounter barriers in their path. The only ones who actually reach Him, are those who are absolutely determined and who refuse to allow anything to keep them from following Him. How determined to be with Jesus are you?
*1* What did the paralytic and his friends do when they were unable to reach Jesus? a) gave up and went home; b) waited for God to open a path through the crowd; c) offered a financial contribution; d) took off part of the roof so the paralytic could enter the house through the opening. Answer: ______.
*2* What did Jesus do for the paralytic before healing him? Answer: He ______ his sins.
*3* Who alone can forgive sins? Answer: Only ______ can forgive sins.
*4* How did Jesus prove He has the power to forgive sins? Answer: He ______ the paralyzed man.
(Thought question: If only God can forgive sins, but Jesus proved that He could forgive sins, what does that prove about the nature of Jesus?)

Jesus Socializes with Outcasts

>>> Read Mark 2:13-17. <<<
One of Jesus' more surprising actions was calling Levi to be a disciple. Levi had been a tax collector. In that era, tax collectors were viewed as both thieves and traitors because they used dishonest tactics to raise funds for the hated Roman invaders. Adding a tax collector to His inner circle was hardly a move that could be expected to increase Jesus' popularity! Later, Levi held a banquet in Christ's honor. He invited his friends: other tax collectors and sinners. The scribes and Pharisees were outraged because they thought it improper for a teacher of religion to eat with immoral people. When Jesus overheard their criticism, He asked: Who needs a doctor--the sick or the well? His purpose, He said, was not to call righteous, but sinners. The Lord never hesitated to break society's norms and customs.
*5* Name the tax collector whom Jesus called. Answer: His name was ______.
*6* What reason did Jesus give to explain why He socialized with sinful people? a) He wanted to participate in their sins; b) He did not believe that sinful people can be a bad influence on good people; c) He wanted to teach the sinners to repent; d) He believed sinners will be saved, even if they don't change. Answer: ______.

Jesus' Disciples Don't Fast

>>> Read Mark 2:18-22. <<<
Some of the Pharisees and disciples of John came to Jesus asking why He and His disciples didn't fast like other religious people did. Jesus explained by illustration. He said that no one would fast at a time of celebration, such as a wedding. His own presence on the earth made it a joyous time of feasting because He was the bridegroom. Since fasting should fit the occasion, it was inappropriate in this situation. He also explained that just as no one would put new wine in old bottles or a new patch on old jeans, it was equally out of place to put the newly revealed gospel of Christ into the old traditional forms of the Jews. Fasting was just not the right thing to do when the Son of God Himself was present.
*7* How did Jesus explain why His disciples didn't fast? a) He said they did fast, but did it secretly; b) He said that His presence made it a time of joy in which fasting was inappropriate; c) He condemned all fasting; d) He admitted they were wrong and should have fasted. Answer: ______.

Disciples Break Sabbath Traditions

>>> Read Mark 2:23-28. <<<
The more popular Jesus became, the more outspoken His opponents' attacks. Jesus and His disciples provided easy targets for their critics, because they refused to follow the religious traditions of their age. Jewish tradition regarding the Sabbath day prohibited all activity, including plucking grain to eat, but Jesus and His followers ignored these cherished doctrines. When the Jewish officials criticized the disciples, Jesus defended their actions by noting His opponents' inconsistency: they justified David when he broke God's law, but they condemned Him when He merely violated men's traditions. Then He explained that God had intended for the Sabbath command to provide relief for man, not be an additional burden. Finally, Jesus proclaimed His authority over the Sabbath saying that He Himself was Lord of the Sabbath. If Jesus created the Sabbath, surely He knew what activities violated it.
*8* What did Jesus call Himself? Answer: He was Lord of the ______.

Jesus Heals on the Sabbath

>>> Read Mark 3:1-6. <<<
As their hatred of Jesus mounted, His enemies searched for every possible chance to attack Him, but He kept evading their traps. On this occasion, a man with a withered hand was in the synagogue. Jesus asked His opponents' opinion on whether or not to help the man, but they refused to reply. Jesus then told him to stretch his hand out. Apparently He neither touched him nor did any other physical thing--He merely asked the man to reach his hand out. When he did, it was healed. Jesus' critics were furious and began plotting to assassinate Him.
Note -- To save a life or to kill: In 3:4 Jesus asked His opponents: Should one save a life or kill on the Sabbath? They chose not to reply, which showed that they were not interested in truth, but only wanted to discredit Him. It is always easy to find fault, but it is much harder to give a positive recommendation. Normally Christ healed men by laying His hands on them or performing some other physical sign. If He had accompanied the healing by physical action in this case, they would have attacked Him for doing medical work on the Sabbath, something contrary to their tradition. This time, however, Jesus did nothing--He merely told the man to reach his hand out. Even Jesus' enemies did not believe it wrong to stretch out your hand on the Sabbath. Thus, He outsmarted His opponents; they were furious. When a man in an argument begins to get angry, it is a sure sign that he is losing. As it turned out, Jesus' enemies are the ones who plotted to kill on the Sabbath, because He had done good.
*9* How many sins did Jesus commit during His lifetime (see 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:21,22; Hebrews 4:15)? Answer (give a number): ______.
*10* The activities Jesus did on the sabbath violated what rules? a) only uninspired Jewish traditions; b) the 10 commands; c) the Law of Moses; d) the New Testament; e) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*11* What did Jesus' enemies do after He had healed the man with the withered hand? Answer: They plotted to ______ Jesus.

Jesus' Popularity Grows

>>> Read Mark 3:7-12.<<<
Though Jesus frequently tried to withdraw, people followed Him from everywhere. He continued teaching, healing and casting out demons. While neither the crowd nor the religious leaders seemed to have recognized His true identity, the demons confessed Jesus as the Son of God. He declined their testimony, however, since He did not want the recommendation of the Devil.

Jesus Appoints Twelve as Apostles

>>> Read Mark 3:13-19. <<<
Jesus needed to train apprentices to represent Him and preach the gospel after His departure. He chose twelve of His followers for that job. The twelve He chose were an unlikely bunch: included were four fishermen, a tax collector, a revolutionary (Simon the "Zealot"), a skeptic (Thomas), and a traitor (Judas Iscariot). Jesus proved that He could work with and make something out of even the most unpromising material.
*12* What work did Jesus empower the apostles to do (read Mark 3:15,14 and Matt. 10:1)? a) preach the gospel; b) heal diseases, c) cast out demons, d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.

Accusations of Satanic Influence

>>> Read Mark 3:20-30. <<<
While Jesus' family thought He had gone crazy, the Pharisees charged that He accomplished His work through the power of the devil. They were desperately seeking to discredit Him and diminish His influence. Jesus' devastating reply silenced them. First, He said that it would be unreasonable and even disastrous for the devil to begin attacking himself. Civil wars don't produce strong kingdoms. Second, Christ explained that He had come to rob the strong man (the devil), taking from him the souls that had been under his control. Logically, He would need to disarm Satan to accomplish this goal, so expelling demons was a predictable facet of His strategy. Finally, He warned of the serious consequences of hardening one's heart to the point of blaspheming the Holy Spirit. These scribes were demonstrating a malicious and possibly fatal attitude toward the work of God.
* 13* How did Jesus' enemies explain His ability to cast out demons? a) He did it by the power of the devil; b) He did it because He was the Son of God; c) it just seemed like He expelled demons but He really didn't; d) they didn't try to explain it. Answer: ______.
*14* What did Jesus say would happen to a kingdom that was divided against itself (v24)? Answer: He said that kingdom cannot ______.

Jesus' True Family

>>> Read Mark 3:31-35. <<<
Jesus' physical family didn't understand Him. They came to try to talk to Him, perhaps to persuade Him to take a break. He refused to give them a private hearing, explaining that His family no longer had a special claim on His attention. Jesus' true family consists of those who hear and do His will. This incident shows that Mary had no special influence or privilege; Jesus treats all of His obedient followers equally.
*15* Who wanted to talk to Jesus? a) His aunt and cousins, b) His mother and brothers, c) His father, d) all the preceding. Answer: ______.
*16* Who did Jesus say are His real family members? Answer: Those who ______ the will of God.
Summary: Jesus was continually under attack. He was criticized because He forgave sins, ate with sinners, didn't fast, didn't observe the religious establishment's Sabbath doctrines, and cast out demons. He never cracked under the intense scrutiny and pressure. Much to the contrary, He continually affirmed principles that are extremely important even for our service to Him: 1) the priority of forgiveness of sins over physical healing, 2) the importance of recognizing one's spiritual sickness, 3) the fact that fasting is to be done only when it fits the circumstances, 4) the uselessness of religious traditions, and 5) the critical danger of hardheartedly rejecting the work of the Holy Spirit.