Jesus Accepts the Lowly

Jesus Accepts the LowlyLesson #7

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Jesus Announces His Death, Rebukes Pride

>>> Read Mark 9:30-37. <<<
Please read the text in your Bible as you study each part of the lesson. Jesus wanted to prepare His disciples for the tragedy that was nearing. He warned them that He would be betrayed into men's hands and be killed, but encouraged them by announcing that three days later He would rise again. The disciples did not understand; they were too busy arguing about who would be the greatest in Jesus' coming kingdom. Knowing what they had been disputing, Jesus took a child into His arms and used him as a model of the humility that should characterize disciples. It must have disappointed Him greatly to see the disciples vying for power while He was preoccupied with His coming suffering.
*1&2* What did Jesus predict was going to happen to Him? Answer: Men would ______ Him, but on the third day He would ______ from the dead.
*3* About what subject were the disciples arguing? Answer: They disputed about which of them was the ______.
*4&5* What did Jesus say one should do, if he wants to be first of all (v35)? Answer: He should be the ______ of all and the ______ of all.

Jesus Warns of the Dangers of Stumbling

>>> Read Mark 9:38-50. <<<
John related how he had seen someone expelling demons in Jesus' name and had forbidden him to do so. Evidently John thought that no one should have been doing any work for the Lord who was not following in their immediate company. But Jesus had commissioned many to go out, preach, and expel demons (see Luke 10). He was pleased with those who were faithfully serving Him in other places.
Jesus went on to warn of the danger of causing someone to fall. He said that it would even be better to tie a huge stone around a man's neck and cast him into the sea than for him to cause another to stumble. He also warned of the danger of allowing anything to cause us to stumble. The Lord encouraged radical, decisive action: cutting off a hand or a foot or plucking out an eye in order to avoid abandoning Him. He was not speaking literally--but He was forcefully declaring that we should sacrifice anything that is tempting us to sin. He described Hell as a horrendous place of maggots and perpetual fire that must be avoided at all cost.
*6* What had John tried to stop someone else from doing? Answer: Someone was casting out ______.
*7* A person would be better drowned in the sea rather than to do what? Answer: It would be better to be thrown into the sea with a millstone around the neck rather than to cause someone to ______.
*8* What lesson is taught by Jesus' statements about cutting off a hand, foot, or eye? a) if we pray, He will miraculously restore the missing member; b) He doesn't care if we suffer; c) we should be willing to make great sacrifices to avoid the consequences of sin; d) we won't miss the body part anyway. Answer: ______.

Question about Divorce

>>> Read Mark 10:1-12. <<<
Jesus' opponents decided to test Him with a hard question. They asked Him whether it was right to divorce. In their society as in ours, there was much disagreement, even among religious people, as to whether or not it was right to divorce and, if so, under what circumstances. Jesus answered their question by reminding them that in the beginning God created only one man and one woman. He intended for marriage to be a permanent union. Because God joins people together when they marry, it is wrong for man to separate them. Later He explained to the disciples that it is not only wrong to divorce, but that a divorced person who remarries is committing adultery.
Note -- The need for commitment in marriage: Many people today enter marriage with the notion that they will divorce if it doesn't work out. This is wrong. Throw-away marriages are opposed to God's created order. God forbids divorce. The only exception is when one divorces his mate because of sexual immorality (Matthew 19:9). In any other case, divorce is sinful and remarriage is adultery. The fact that men frequently disobey God does not change what He said.
*9* What principle did Jesus use to forbid divorce (v9)? Answer: What God has joined together, man should not ______.
*10* In what circumstance did Jesus allow divorce and remarriage (Matt. 19:9)? a) when one of the partners no longer loves the other; b) when there is abuse; c) when one divorces a spouse because he/she committed fornication; d) when irreconcilable differences exist. Answer: ______.
*11* If a man or woman divorces his/her spouse (not for fornication) and remarries, what did Jesus say about the remarriage (v11,12)? Answer: It is ______.

Jesus Blesses the Children

>>> Read Mark 10:13-16. <<<
The disciples never seemed to want Jesus to be bothered, so they were constantly trying to keep certain kinds of people away from Him (see 10:46-52). In this case, it was children. When Jesus saw that they were hindering the children from approaching Him, He was indignant and rebuked them. He said that the kingdom of God itself belongs to people who become like children. He took the young people into His arms and began to bless them. He always had time for children.
*12* Whom did the disciples try to stop from coming to Jesus? a) Pharisees; b) children; c) sinners; d) tax collectors. Answer: ______.
*13* What reason did Jesus give why He wanted to receive children? a) He wanted to baptize them; b) He wanted to give them candy and ice cream; c) He hoped their parents would give Him money; d) the kingdom of God belongs to people who are like little children. Answer: ______.
(Thought question: If the kingdom belongs to those who are like little children, then are little children born guilty of sin?)

Rich Man Considers Cost too High

>>> Read Mark 10:17-31. <<<
A rich young man ran up to Jesus requesting information on how to receive eternal life. Jesus first told him to keep the commandments, which the man said he had done. Then Jesus ordered him to sell all that he owned, give the proceeds to the poor, and start following Him. The man wanted eternal life, but not at that price. He turned away, saddened. Many follow in this young man's steps. They desire eternal life . . . as long as they don't have to make too many sacrifices. Jesus referred to these people when He remarked about how difficult it is for those who are rich to enter heaven. He said that it is easier to thread a camel through a needle than for a rich man to be saved. The disciples were shocked. The Lord explained that with God all things are possible, but that it is hard for rich people to go to heaven, because of the tendency to trust in material possessions and not in God.
Note -- The lack of one thing: As Jesus talked to the rich man, He observed that he lacked only one thing: he only needed to get rid of his possessions. It became obvious that Jesus had properly diagnosed the man's need, because the man was unwilling to do so. He indeed was valuing his possessions over the Lord. To follow Jesus, we must give up anything in our life that is more important to us than He is. It is interesting that this man lacked only one thing. Some people have the idea that one sin is not all that bad. They think that while they may be failing in one area, at least they serve the Lord faithfully in all the others. This story shows clearly that even one thing can keep a person from being accepted by God. Is there one thing in your life that is separating you from faithfulness in the Lord's service?
*14* What did the rich man want Jesus to tell him? Answer: He wanted to know what he should do to inherit ______.
*15* What was the rich man's reaction when Jesus told him that he needed to sell all and give the money to the poor? Answer: He went away ______.
*16* How many things in our lives that we refuse to repent of does it take to keep us from pleasing God? (a) none, (b) one, (c) we must do more evil than we do good, (d) the Bible does not say. Answer: ______.

Greatness in God's Kingdom

>>> Read Mark 10:32-45. <<<
For the third time, Jesus warned the disciples about what was going to happen when they got to Jerusalem. He gave a detailed description of the suffering He would experience there. Meanwhile, James and John were imagining a different scenario. They asked Jesus to agree to do whatever they would request. Jesus asked them what they wanted; He was not going to sign a blank check by agreeing before they made the request. They replied that they wanted to sit on Jesus' right and left hand; that is, they wanted the chief positions in His administration. Jesus responded by asking if they could drink the cup He was going to drink or be baptized with His baptism, and they said they could. Jesus was referring to His sufferings which were often spoken of as a cup of agony that He would have to drink (see Mark 14:36) and as a baptism (immersion) in pain (see Luke 12:50). They had no clue as to His real meaning, but they enthusiastically accepted the challenge. Jesus then replied that He did not have the authority to grant their request, because He was not the one who assigned the positions of honor in the kingdom.
The other disciples were incensed. James and John had gotten the jump on them. They themselves wished to have the highest positions and resented the fact that the sons of Zebedee had requested them first. Jesus took some time to define what greatness in the kingdom really meant. He said that in human affairs, whether government or business, the greatest have the most authority. But, He explained, it isn't that way in the kingdom of God. Rather, the greatest is the one who humbles himself most and serves most. He pointed to Himself as the model. He had not come to be served, but to serve and to offer Himself as a sacrifice for others.
Note -- True greatness: We still desperately need these lessons of Jesus. Many, even in religion, are seeking to be great by trying to gain honor, glory and power. Churches are infested with "politicians" who want the limelight and who vie for positions of maximum control and authority. We should be ashamed. Jesus was born in a stable outside a small town. He lived His life as a village carpenter and itinerant preacher. He accumulated neither riches nor worldly power. Yet, today, many of His self-proclaimed followers seek and promise the very things He rejected, as they pursue higher and higher positions in churches. It is hard to imagine that Jesus would feel at home in their costly cathedrals. It is impossible to believe that He would preach the "gospels of health and wealth" so popular today. Jesus said the way to true greatness was the road of service and suffering.
*17&18* What did James and John want Jesus to do for them? Answer: They wanted to sit one at Jesus' ______ and the other at His ______in His glory (kingdom).
*19* According to Jesus, how can you become great in the kingdom? a) attend the biggest church with the most beautiful building; b) give lots of money; c) take a high position of authority in the church; d) humble yourself and serve others. Answer: ______.

Jesus Heals Bartimaeus

>>> Read Mark 10:46-52. <<<
As Jesus passed through Jericho, a blind beggar cried out. The crowds tried to silence him, thinking that the Lord should not be bothered with such unimportant people. But Jesus called the blind man to come to Him and healed him. The beggar began to follow Him. Few rich men followed the Lord (see 10:17-22), but many of the poor and downtrodden did.
*20* What was the name of the blind man Jesus healed (v46)? a) Peter; b) Bartimaeus; c) Thomas; d) Andrew. Answer: ______.
*21* What did the blind man keep calling Jesus (v48)? Answer: He called Him ______.
Summary: Jesus accepted the humble folks, even though the disciples tried to turn them away. He accepted the man who worked for Him but was not in His personal company; He welcomed the children; He invited the blind beggar. He rejected those we might have accepted: a rich ruler with so much to offer, and all those who sought position and greatness. The great one in the kingdom is the servant.

Jesus’ Death, Burial and Resurrection

Jesus’ Death, Burial and Resurrection

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Jesus on Trial before Pilate

>>> Read Mark 15:1-21. <<<
Please read each section in your Bible as you study the lesson. Although the Jewish leaders had tried Jesus and convicted Him of blasphemy, they led Him to the Roman governor Pilate for yet another trial. The Jews did not have authority to carry out sentences of capital punishment that were determined by their own courts; capital crimes had to be tried by Roman officials. Thus, very early the next morning they brought Jesus to Pilate, hoping that he would concur with their decision. They accused Jesus of many things, but He remained silent. Pilate was amazed that He didn't try to defend Himself. The governor perceived that this was not really a question of criminal action, but that the Jews were jealous of Jesus. Therefore, he made several attempts to release Him. He was eager to appease the Jews, however, and was unable to persuade them that Jesus should be released. Though he did not believe Jesus was guilty, he ended up sentencing Him to death because he feared the start of a riot. Roman soldiers scourged Jesus, mocked Him, and led Him out to be crucified.
Note -- Physical suffering of Jesus: Jesus suffered intensely in his last few hours. After being up all night, subjected to the stress of six different trials (if we compare the accounts in Matthew, Luke and John also), He was scourged. Scourging was accomplished by tying bits of bone, metal and glass to a whip and then striking the victim's back. This procedure produced excruciating pain, much loss of blood and sometimes even death. The victim's back became a bloody mass. After scourging Him, they took thorns, wove them into a crown, put it on Jesus' head, and began to beat on it, causing intense pain. They put a scarlet robe on Him [see Matt. 27:28; Mark's account calls it "purple"], only to later rip it off, undoubtedly tearing open the blood-dried wounds on His back in the process. Then came the crucifixion. In an execution of this type, they would literally nail the "criminal's" hands and feet onto a piece of wood and then set it upright into a hole. To breathe, the victim had to continually raise himself so that his lung cavity could expand. Pain and fatigue would begin to diminish the effectiveness of this effort and the lungs would begin to fill with fluid. As exhaustion took hold, the victim would be slowly asphyxiated because of a lack of oxygen and finally die.
*1* What did Pilate conclude was the real reason the Jews wanted Jesus to be crucified (v10)? (a) They believed in Him, (b) they envied him, (c) they wanted Him to be king, (d) they were sincerely disappointed in Him. Answer: ______.
*2* Why did Pilate sentence Jesus' execution despite believing He was innocent (v15)? Answer: He wanted to please the Jews and avoid a ______.
*3* The man who was released in Jesus' place was guilty of what (v7)? Answer: He had participated in an insurrection in which he had committed ______.
*4&5* After Jesus had been scourged, what did the soldiers put on His head? Answer: A ______ made of ______.

Jesus' Crucifixion

>>> Read Mark 15:22-41. <<<
It was a standard act of mercy to give a narcotic to condemned criminals when they were crucified. The drug would dull the pain a bit and allow the victim to pass away more comfortably. Jesus refused this tranquilizer. He was determined to suffer in full consciousness.
The ridicule grew. The soldiers who guarded the cross gambled for Jesus' clothes. Bystanders laughed at the idea that He could rebuild the temple when He couldn't even save Himself. Come down from the cross, they taunted, and we'll believe in You! Some Jewish officials standing nearby smirked that He had been able to save others, but was powerless to save Himself. Even the two thieves who were executed on either side of the Lord ridiculed Him.
From noon until 3 p.m. the sky was dark. Shortly thereafter, Jesus cried out in anguish, using the very words of Psalm 22:1: "My God, my God, why have You forsaken Me?" Then after a few more minutes, He cried out again and died. At that moment the temple veil split in two, and a centurion who was observing exclaimed, "Truly this man was the Son of God."
Note -- The majesty of Jesus' death: There were multiplied ironies in the events of those final hours. As they ridiculed Jesus saying that He had saved others, but now couldn't save himself, they were unaware that He was fully capable of saving Himself, but that if He had, He would not have saved others. He died voluntarily. He had at His disposition thousands of angels that could have rescued Him, but He deliberately chose to lay down His life because He loved us. Jesus had the power to do anything He wanted against His tormentors, but he subdued all desire for revenge and actually prayed for God to forgive those who were treating Him so cruelly (Luke 23:34). By dying as He did, Christ provided the sacrifice that would forgive men's sins. Therefore, the temple veil was torn in two from top to bottom. The veil had blocked access to God's presence--it was a symbol of man's sin. Since Jesus' death atoned for sin, the veil was severed, demonstrating that with sin removed men could once again enter into fellowship with God. Truly, this man was the Son of God!
*6&6* What was written above Jesus, while He hung on the cross (v26)? Answer: A sign over Him said, "The ______ of the ______."
*8* The people mocking Christ said they would believe on Him if He would do what? Answer: They would believe if he would ______ from the cross.
*9* What occurred in the temple when Jesus died? Answer: The ______ of the temple was torn in two.
*10* Jesus was crucified with what kind of men? Answer: He was crucified between two ______.

Jesus' Burial

>>> Read Mark 15:42-47. <<<
Joseph, a prominent Jewish official and secret disciple of Christ (see John 19:38), asked Pilate for permission to bury Jesus' body. He had to act quickly since according to Jewish law He could not bury the body on the Sabbath day, which officially began at sundown. He gathered the corpse up in a sheet and put it in a hole chiseled into the wall of a cave, which served as a typical grave in that era. He closed off the cave by rolling a large rock over the entrance.
*11* In whose tomb was Jesus buried (v43)? Answer: The tomb belonged to ______. (Cf. Matt. 27:57-60.)
*12* How did Pilate make sure Jesus was dead (v44,45)? Answer: He asked the ______ if Jesus was dead.
*13&14* What was the tomb made of, and how was the opening sealed (v46)? Answer: It was hewn out of ______, and the opening was covered with a large ______.

Body is Missing!

>>> Read Mark 16:1-8. <<<
A few loyal women had prepared spices and went out to Jesus' tomb early on Sunday morning. They were planning to embalm His body in order to give it a more honorable burial than had been possible in the few minutes that had been available on Friday afternoon. As they walked down to the cave, they thought about how hard it was going to be for them to roll that large rock away from the entrance of the burial cave. When they arrived, however, they saw that the rock had already been removed and the cave was open. Inside, an angel told them that Jesus had arisen and was on His way to Galilee. He asked them to tell the disciples and Peter. The women fled away very frightened.
Note -- Tell the disciples and Peter: The angel told the women to invite the disciples "and Peter" to meet Jesus in Galilee. Since Peter was himself a disciple, it seems unusual that he would be singled out and receive a special invitation. Perhaps it was because the Lord knew that Peter would no longer feel himself worthy to be counted as a disciple after having denied Him, and therefore, Jesus gave him a special invitation to the meeting. What tenderness the Lord showed!
*15* On what day did Jesus arise from the dead (v1,2)? Answer: The ______ day of the week.
*16* Why did the women go to the tomb early on the first day of the week? Answer: They wanted to ______ Jesus' body.
*17* What did the young man (angel) say had happened to Jesus? Answer: He said Jesus was not there because He had ______.

Jesus Commissions the Disciples

>>> Read Mark 16:9-20. <<<
The disciples had never expected to see Jesus again. They watched Him die and knew about His burial. They were very sad. Because of this, the news of the empty tomb and Jesus' appearances seemed too good to be true. They refused to get their hopes up. Later, when He did appear to them, He rebuked them for being so slow to believe. Then He gave orders for their future work, telling them to go everywhere and preach the gospel to all. He told them what to preach: The one who believes and is baptized will be saved. He gave them signs to confirm their message.
Note -- He that believes and is baptized shall be saved: Jesus set forth the conditions of salvation. He requires faith and baptism. Unfortunately men of our day have tried to eliminate one or the other of these two requirements. Some try to eliminate faith. They teach that infants, who are too young to believe, should be baptized. But Jesus' order was belief first, then baptism. Throughout Scripture only those who believed and repented were considered qualified for baptism (study Acts 2:38, 41; 18:8; John 6:44-45). Others teach salvation by faith only, without baptism. But Jesus clearly said that baptism was a requirement to receive salvation (see John 3:5). In accordance with this command of Jesus, the apostles insisted that water baptism was a prerequisite to receiving forgiveness of sins and the new life in Christ (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4; 1 Peter 3:21).
The gospel of Mark closes with a note about the results of the great mission Jesus entrusted to the apostles. After He had ascended back to heaven, they went out and began to preach everywhere, just like Jesus told them. The Lord blessed their revelation of the gospel message with signs to confirm it, just as He said He would.
*18* What did Jesus say His disciples should do with the gospel (v15)? Answer: They should go into all the world and ______ the gospel.
*19* What did Jesus say one must do to be saved (v16)? a) just believe in Jesus; b) just be baptized; c) pray the sinner's prayer; d) believe and be baptized. Answer: ______.
*20* What purpose was to be accomplished by miraculous signs (v20)? Answer: As inspired men preached the gospel, the accompanying signs served to ______ the word.
Mark's story of Jesus is over, but we hope that your study of Jesus' life and teachings is not. Besides Mark, three other New Testament books tell about Him: Matthew, Luke and John. Perhaps now you would like to begin to read them to learn more details of His story. Or, perhaps you prefer to continue your study by learning the story of how the apostles began to take the gospel all over the world: read the book of Acts. Bible study is a great journey and your adventure has just begun. Please be sure that you meditate and reflect on the great message of the Word of God as you read, and make sure you apply what you learn to your life.

Attitudes Needed in a Local Church

Following Jesus, Course B, Lesson 4

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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.

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I. Members Need to Love God and One Another.

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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]

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II. Members Must Be Committed to Truth.

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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]

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III. Members Must Be Committed to Serve.

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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]

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IV. Members Must Be Patient & Forbearing.

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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?

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V. Members Must Be Committed to Unity and Peace.

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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? ______

Jesus Is Lord - Lesson #8

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

Jesus Is Lord - Lesson #8

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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.

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 How Did Modern Denominations Begin?

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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.

Jesus Is Lord - Lesson #7

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

Jesus Is Lord - Lesson #7

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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.

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Part I: What Should Jesus' Church Be Like?

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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.)

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.

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I. A DESIRE TO GROW

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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?

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II. NOURISHMENT

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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.

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III. EXERCISE AND PRACTICE

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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!

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IV. TIME AND PATIENCE

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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.

"Teach Us to Pray" - Part 1

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Following Jesus -- Course A, Lesson #4

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

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I. What Should We Pray About?

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

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

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

B. We Should Pray on Behalf of Others.

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

C. We Should Make Requests and Give Thanks.

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

D. Some Specific Things We Should Pray about

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

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

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

A. General Admonitions about Frequency and Place

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

B. Specific Examples of Frequency, Place, etc.

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

C. Posture and Physical Conduct During Prayer

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