Overview of the Bible

Transcription

1

2 Overview of the Bible I. Introductory Thoughts A. The Purpose: The purpose of this lesson is to familiarize you with the Bible. It is helpful in studying the Bible to be able to have a clear picture of the content and outline of the Bible. This lesson will help you see that picture. B. The List of Books of the Bible: Look at the beginning of your Bible and find the list of books of the Bible. You will notice the following: 1. The Bible is not "one" book but really a collection of 66 books written by various men at different times yet they show a common theme and purpose. We will be going through the books and discovering what they cover. 2. There is a main division in the Bible: that is between the Old Testament and the New Testament. We will discuss why there is this division and what that means in the course of this lesson. II. The Outline of the Bible A. Pre-Flood: The book of Genesis begins with the creation of all that we see. According to the genealogies given in the Bible the creation took place c B.C. Adam was the first created man then his wife Eve. They, through their sin, were driven by God from the garden of Eden. After their departure from the garden they obeyed God's command to "be fruitful and multiply" populating the earth with many children. They and their children continued to populate the earth until the birth of a man named Noah. Noah was a righteous man born at a time when "every intent of the thoughts of man's heart was only evil continually" (Genesis 6:5). Due to this God was sorry that He had created man and so determined to destroy mankind with a flood. Because Noah had faith in God, God instructed him to build an ark for the salvation of he and his family as well as the animals which he took on the ark. B. Post-Flood, Patriarchs, & Living in Egypt: After the flood Noah and his family again populate the earth. Approximately 400 years after the flood a man named Abraham finds favor in God's eyes by his faith. Because of this God makes three promises to him. First a Nation promise: that Abraham would be the father of many nations (one of which was the Israelite nation). Secondly, a Land promise: that Abraham's descendants would possess the land of Canaan (area of the Jordan River -- See Map of Europe / Asia / Africa). And, finally, a Seed promise: that through Abraham all nations of the earth would be blessed (making reference to Jesus Christ - Galatians 3:16). Abraham later has a son named Isaac who in turn has a son named Jacob. Jacob's name was later changed to Israel. The Israelites come from the descendants of this man's twelve sons (note that when the Bible speaks of Gentiles it refers to someone who is not descended from Israel). The Israelites eventually move down to Egypt where they are placed in slavery by a pharaoh who fears their great population. They are enslaved until Moses is called by God to lead them out of Egypt. C. Wilderness Wandering & Conquest: Moses leads the Israelites (around 2 to 3 million people) out of Egypt after the 10 plagues. They are led to Mount Sinai (known as Horeb) where they receive the Law. In Deuteronomy 4:10-13 it explains what this Law included. Q: What is a "covenant"? Q: What was the foundation of the Law given at Horeb? The Law also included sacrifices for sins the people had committed. Daily the priests would sacrifice animals according to the Law for the sins of the people. They left the mountain after receiving the Law and eventually were led to the land of Canaan (as promised by God to Abraham). Joshua was chosen to lead the people into the land to conquer the nations already settled there, with the command to drive out all of the inhabitants, this they failed to do. -1-

3 D. Judges, United & Divided Kingdoms, & Judah Only: Eventually, those that were not driven out of the land, as well as the nations around Israel, began to oppress them. God raised up judges to lead the people from the bondage of these nations. These judges were not like we think of judges but more like military leaders. For over 300 years the people go through cycles of Sin / Oppression / Repentance / Deliverance until they request from God a king. God grants their request and Saul becomes the first king over Israel, David the next, and Solomon the third. After Solomon's reign the kingdom was split into a Northern Kingdom called Israel and a Southern Kingdom called Judah. The Northern Kingdom was only ruled by wicked kings who did not follow God. God sent prophets to them to warn them of the impending consequences of their sins, but they did not repent. In 721 B.C. the Assyrian nation took the Northern Kingdom captive and are dispersed throughout the Assyrian nation. The Southern Kingdom had a couple of righteous kings but many evil and corrupt kings also. God also sent many prophets to them to warn them of God's judgment upon them, but they too rebelled against Him and continued in wickedness. In 606 B.C. the Babylonians came in and took some of the Southern Kingdom captive and ultimately the nation by 586 B.C. E. Babylonian Captivity, Return, & Period of Silence: The Babylonians were conquered by the Persians who allowed the Israelites to return to their land and rebuild Jerusalem, the temple, and re-establish their Law. The Israelites were in captivity a total of 70 years prior to returning to their land. Once they were again in their land God spoke no more to them until the time of Christ some 400 years later. III. The Importance of the Prophets A. Review the List of the Books of the Bible: Look again at the list of books of the Bible. Note, by way of review, what portion of history each of the books cover. Many of the books of the Old Testament are prophets (Isaiah through Malachi). Prophets were men sent by God to warn and instruct the people concerning their sin, they were sent during the times of the kings, as well as the time of captivity and the return from captivity. B. The Coming of a New Covenant: One of the prophets, Jeremiah, who wrote just prior to the Southern Kingdom going into Babylonian captivity, told of the coming of a New Covenant. Read Jeremiah 31: Q: Which covenant is the New Covenant NOT going to be like? Q: What are some of the differences between the Old and New Covenants? One of the books of the New Testament quotes from Jeremiah 31 and tells when this prophecy was fulfilled. Let's look at this reference. IV. Analysis of Hebrews 10:1-18 A. Description of the First Covenant: Read Hebrews 10:1-4 and perform or answer the following: Activity: List all of the descriptions of the first covenant ("The Law") you can find in these verses. Q: What does it mean when it says the Law was a "shadow"? Q: What does it mean to make "perfect"? Q: What was the main fault with the first covenant? -2-

4 B. Jesus Comes To Do God's Will: Read Hebrews 10:5-9. The "He" referred to here is speaking of Jesus. When He came into the world He expressed the very conclusion verse 4 had come to: That God did not desire, not was He pleased with the sacrifices and offerings for sin under the Law. Jesus does say, however, that God had provided Him with a body for a sacrifice (referring to Jesus' sacrifice on the cross). Jesus also tells of the reason for His coming. Q: Jesus came to do God s will, what exactly did He do (see verse 9)? C. Description of the Second Covenant: Read Hebrews 10: From these verses list all of the descriptions you see of the second covenant. Q: What are some of the differences you see between the first and second covenants? Note there is a quote from Jeremiah 31:33-34 at the conclusion of this section. The writer is indicating that the sacrifice of Christ begins the new covenant, thus fulfilling Jeremiah s prophecy. V. Summary and Applications A. No Longer Under the First Covenant: Read Hebrews 8:7-13. Most of this passage is a quotation from Jeremiah 31: The writer is again making the point that Jesus' sacrifice is a fulfillment of this prophecy. He also makes the point that if Jesus has begun a new covenant then the first covenant is no longer needed. In other words we have no more need for the sacrifices that the Old Law commanded, Jesus came to fulfill the first covenant and bring it to a close. Therefore, today if we want to know what we should be doing in service to God the New Testament holds the answers. We cannot get our authority for action from the Old Covenant because that is no longer in effect. Example: Let's say that my wife sends me to the store for some groceries and gives me a list of items to purchase. The list reads as follows: Milk, Eggs, Butter. So I go and pick up the items on the list. One week later she needs me to run to the store again and provides me with another list that reads: Cereal, Milk, Bread. As I get to the store I pull out her list but then dig a little deeper in my pocket and pull out the OLD list and I think to myself, "She wanted milk, eggs, and butter last week, I'll just go ahead and get that again." When I return home with those items I don't believe my wife would be happy, why? Because I did not get her what was on the NEW list -- the NEW list made the OLD list obsolete, no longer needed. Q: Are we to follow the ten commandments today? Why or why not? If the Old Covenant has been done away with then so have the 10 commandments which were the foundation of that first covenant. However, Jesus and the inspired men of the New Testament reiterated nine of the ten commandments and thus made them part of what we should follow today. The only one of the ten commandments not in force under the New Testament is the fourth commandment of keeping the Sabbath Day holy (Saturday). We, therefore, keep nine of the ten commandments NOT because they were part of the Old Covenant but because they were taught for us to keep in the New Covenant (refer to the example given above - Milk is on both lists). B. The New Covenant Is The Source of Authority: We must be careful as we search for what God requires of us that we get our authority for action from what Jesus and the apostles have instructed us in the New Testament. We cannot go back to the Old Testament and say, "God commanded them to sacrifice or offer incense therefore we must do it today." VI. For Further Study After seeing a clearer picture of the Bible and what it is about it becomes obvious that the focus of the whole Bible is that Jesus died on the cross for the sins of all mankind. One of the main topics of the Bible, therefore, is SIN. Further study can be made on what exactly sin is and how we can overcome its devastating effects. -3-

5 Understanding Sin and Its Consequences I. Introductory Thoughts A. Summary of Last Lesson: In the previous lesson we looked at an overview of the Bible. We noted some of the main events and people and fit each of the books of the Old Testament into their historical settings. There are two main points that were established in the last study. 1. What, in general, the Bible is about. 2. We are no longer under the Old Testament. If we want to know what God wants us to do in service to Him today we need to turn to the New Testament. B. The Purpose of this lesson: Sin is one of the main topics in the Bible. From Adam and Eve to the New Testament the Bible tells of the sins of mankind. The purpose of this lesson is to understand what sin is, what it does to our lives, and how we can be saved from the effects of sin. II. The Definition and Result of Sin A. Defining Sin: Ephesians 2:1-10 shows us how we can be saved from sin. It begins by saying that the Ephesians were "dead in trespasses and sins". What does it mean to sin and what exactly is sin? There are a couple of places in the New testament that define sin for us. One that we will look at is found in 1 John 3:4. Q: What does 1 John 3:4 say sin is? What does this mean? Another verse that defines sin is found in James 4:17. Q: What does this verse say sin is? How is this definition different than the 1 John 3:4 passage? 1. As a way to visualize what these two verses are saying about sin you could use two circles. One of the circles represents God's Law. Inside of this circle are all the commandments of His law, all of the good things that we should do (i.e. helping others, worshiping God, serving God, loving others, etc.). Outside of this circle is everything God commands us NOT to do (i.e. murder, adultery, stealing, etc.). This circle is shown to the right as the solid circle. 2. Another circle can be used to represent my actions. Inside of this circle are all of the things that I do - good and bad. Outside of this circle are all of the things I do NOT do - good and bad. This circle is shown to the right as the dashed circle. 3. In comparing my circle to God's circle four categories can be distinguished (shown by the Roman numerals I, II, III, IV): I: Those actions that God wants me to do that I do NOT do (these are what are described in James 4:17). II: III: IV: Those actions that God wants me to do that I DO. Those actions that God does NOT want me to do but I DO them anyway (these are the actions described in 1 John 3:4). Those actions that God does NOT want me to do and I do NOT. 4. If we are honest with ourselves we all would realize that in some way we have sinned. Either by DOING some things that we shouldn't or by NOT doing some things that we should. This is exactly -4-

6 what Romans 3:23 says. We ALL have sinned. None of us can say that our circle lines up exactly with God's such that we do everything He requires for us to do and nothing He says not to do. My conclusion about my life must be: I am a sinner. B. The Result of Sin: Romans 6:23 tells us the result of our sins. Q: What is the difference between a wage and a gift? 1. Death means separation. The death that occurs due to sin is spiritual death (as noted in Ephesians 2:1). I die spiritually because sin separates me from God. This means that I am not saved, I do not have a relationship with God, I am not right with God, and if I died (physically) I would be separated from God forever. 2. This is a very bleak picture of my life. I realize I am a sinner because I have done things I shouldn't and neglected to do some things I should. The result of this is separation from God. God, however, has given us hope by saying in Romans 6:23 - "...but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." There is an answer to my problem of sin, it is in Jesus. C. A Description of a Sinful Life: Ephesians 2:1-3 gives a description of what it means to live in sin. Note the following: 1. "...according to the course of this world...": When we sin we are following the way of the world. Jesus said in Matthew 7:13-14 that the way is narrow that leads to life and few there be that find it. Many people live life the way they desire and do not follow God, this is what it means to live in sin. 2. "...according to the prince of the power of the air...": This is a description of Satan. When we live in sin we are following after Satan. Many will say, "I know I'm not serving God, but I certainly don't serve Satan!" However, there are only two choices, we either serve God or Satan. If we are not doing what God wants us to do then we are doing exactly what Satan desires. 3. "...sons of disobedience...": We are described as disobedient when we live in sin. This follows in line with the definition of sin we have already discussed. 4. "...fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind...": A life of sin is one that follows my direction, I do what I desire without direction from God. This direction affects how I think and what I do. 5. "...by nature children of wrath...": The term "by nature" means those things we learn by habit. We use the term "second nature" to refer to those actions we have done so often that we do them without even thinking about it. Sin becomes a habit that eventually does not even cause a second thought. In living this way we incur the wrath of God and therefore are called children of wrath. This is a perfect description of our separation from God because of our sin. Note also that he says we ALL once lived this way, this is the state of each of us in our sin. However, the introductory remark was, "...you He made alive, who were dead..." He tells us how they were made alive and in the process tells us one way that we are NOT made alive. III. The Keys to Life A. God's Part in My Salvation: Ephesians 2:4-7 describe for us what God has done for us so that we can go from death to life. It mentions God's mercy, love, grace, and kindness all of which are "in Christ". In other words, we go from death to life because of what God has done for us in Christ (His death on the cross for us). Romans 5:6-8 describe what God has done for us through His Son Jesus, this is His grace. Without the sacrifice of Christ we could not be made alive because it is through His death that we have forgiveness of our sins. Note, also, in this section how it describes the life God has granted us. It says we are made alive "with Christ", raised up "together", and made to sit "together". This is opposite of what we have when we are in sin - a separation from God. In life we are together with Christ. He also describes it as "heavenly places". This term refers to our new position with respect to God, we are now with Him, where He is, and He is with us. -5-

7 B. My Part in My Salvation: Ephesians 2:8-10 describe what my responsibility is if I am going to go from death to life. It says I have been saved by grace through faith. Faith is my part in salvation. God has done His part in sending Jesus to die on the cross, if I want to go from death to life I must do my part, that is, live by faith. 1. A contrast is made here between how we are and are NOT saved. Q: What are the two ways in which we are NOT saved? 2. In Luke 18:9-14 Jesus tells a parable to those who "trusted in themselves that they were righteous". We can learn what it means to trust in ourselves and live by works instead of living by faith from the contrast between the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee did two things: (a) He accented the good things he did in his life; and (b) He condemned others who did things wrong that he did not. His problem, however, was that he did not recognize the sin in his life (either the GOOD that he did NOT do or the BAD that he did). The tax collector, on the other hand, simply said, "God be merciful to me a sinner". He realized that salvation was by God's mercy and not by how good he was. The Pharisee is a good example of many "good" people. They do a lot of good things and don't do many bad things, however, this will not save them. 3. The question that must be answered then is: What is faith? There is much discussion in the religious world as to what exactly it is. IV. An Analysis of Faith A. Definition of Faith: There are two scriptures that help define for us what faith is. The first is found in Romans 10:17 which indicates we obtain faith through listening to God. We cannot get faith through a warm feeling or by listening to others or meditation, the source of faith must be the word of God. The second scripture that helps define faith is found in James 2:26. This verse indicates faith must include action (or works). Faith, therefore, is listening to God and doing what He says. If either of these is left out then faith is not present. B. A Question On Works: We noted earlier that we are NOT saved by works (or "of ourselves") but we are saved by faith. However, faith involves (1) listening to God, and (2) doing what He says (or works). Q: What is the difference between the works that do not save us and those that are included in faith? As an example let's look at two individuals. The first (Person A) reads his Bible every day (so he can impress others with his knowledge), he attends every worship service (so that others will praise him for his dedication to God), and he prays every day (for others to notice how religious he is). The second (Person B) also reads his Bible every day (so he can learn what God wants him to do), he attends every worship service (so he can encourage and strengthen others and worship God), and he prays every day (because he depends on God for his every need). Each are performing the same "works" but Person A's works are motivated by his desire to earn righteousness, while Person B's works are motivated by his desire to serve God. The difference is in the foundation of the works, not the works themselves. Our works must come from a desire to serve God. C. Examples of Faith: There are numerous examples of what faith requires in the Bible. Person A Reads Bible Attends Prays Motivation? Person B Reads Bible Attends Prays Motivation? 1. One example of faith found in Leviticus 10:1-2 where Nadab and Abihu are worshiping God but not the way He had designated (they offered profane fire - or "common" fire from a source God had not commanded). The result was they were consumed by fire from the Lord. They died because they did not act by faith, they failed to listen to God. Some say, "As long as you are worshiping God it doesn't matter what you do." In order to live by faith it does matter what God wants. -6-

8 2. Matthew 7:21-23 is another example of what faith requires. These people coming before Jesus have done many great things but they will not be saved because they were not doing what God wanted them to do, they tried to earn their way to heaven. They may have been sincere and put forth much effort and hard work and had many great accomplishments but that did not give them eternal life, they had to live by faith - listen to God and do what He says. 3. As an every day example, if you hired me to paint your house you would expect me to paint it according to YOUR specifications, not what I thought would be nice. You would not be happy if I painted it the color I wanted instead of the color you wanted no matter how sincere I was or how much effort I put into it. God deserves the same respect, He wants us to act according to His will, not our own. If we live by faith we will be careful to first listen to what God wants and then follow exactly what He says. This is exactly what Deuteronomy 4:2 and Revelation 22:18-19 are saying. We cannot add to what God says and we cannot take away from it either, we must do exactly what He says. V. Living By Faith If we are going to have faith then we first must know what God says. In particular, if we are trying to go from death (the result of our sins) to life then we must know what God says we should do to go from death to life. Once we determine what God says we must do then, if we have faith, we will do it. If God said we had to clap our hands three times to have our sins forgiven so that we could be saved and we had faith -- what would we do? If God said we had to accept the Lord in our hearts as our Savior to have our sins forgiven so we could be saved and we had faith -- what would we do? Whatever God said to do - it doesn't matter what - we would do it if we had faith. The question is: What does God say I need to do to have my sins forgiven so that I can go from death to life? This question will be answered in the next study. -7-

9 Good News: The Gospel of Jesus Christ I. Introductory Thoughts A. Living By Faith: In the previous lesson we noted that both we and God have a part in our salvation. God's part is grace, as seen in the death of His Son on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. Our part is faith, which is comprised of (1) Listening to God and (2) Doing what He says (works). These together are the foundation for our salvation. Since faith involves listening and doing, the question that must be asked is: What does God say I need to do to be saved? B. The Purpose: The purpose of this lesson is to answer the question posed above. Paul, in writing to the Romans, in Romans 6:1-2 mentions a point in time when they had "died to sin". Q: What should have been different about their lives after they had died to sin? Dying to sin is the point in time when my sins are forgiven and I am saved. He goes on in Romans 6 to tell when that time is and what we did to achieve this salvation. Before we look at what he says in this text and partly by way of review, let's look at what the Bible says about salvation. II. The Gospel of Jesus Christ A. What the Gospel Does: In Romans 1:16-17 it mentions how we are saved. Q: What is God s power to save us? As we noted in the last lesson, salvation is a change from death and sinfulness to a relationship with God, a life of righteousness. This transition occurs by the power of the gospel but only for those who live by faith. The gospel is God's part in my salvation and faith is my part. B. What the Gospel Is and Does for Us: In 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 we are told what the gospel is. The gospel (or "good news") is that Jesus died on the cross, was buried, and rose on the third day. Why is this "good news"? What does Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection do for me? 1. Jesus' Death: Colossians 1:19-23 lists many results of the death of Jesus (or His blood being shed). a. reconciled to God: The term reconciled denotes "to change, or exchange" hence to change from being an enemy to being a friend. Through the death of Jesus we are changed from being an enemy of God to being a friend of God. In Ephesians 1:7 we are told that through the death of Jesus we have the forgiveness of our sins. Sins are what separate us from God and result in our being His enemy, but by the blood of Jesus and the forgiveness we receive through it, we are made the friend of God. b. peace with God: Prior to forgiveness of sins we are "alienated" from God and "enemies" of God by wicked works. However, because Jesus died on the cross peace is made between me and God. c. holy, blameless, above reproach: Being holy means we are "separated to serve God". We are now useful to Him to serve Him and live for Him. Due to the death of Christ and the forgiveness offered to us through His sacrifice, we can stand before God blameless and with nothing held against us. This is a tremendous blessing without which we would be forever the enemy of God. The "good news" about the death of Jesus is that it cleanses us from our sins and allows us to have a relationship with God. This is truly a manifestation of God's grace. If Jesus never died on the cross then I would be separated from God forever. However, not everyone will have their sins forgiven. There is a condition to the reconciliation: IF you continue in the faith. I must do my part if I am going to be reconciled to God. -8-

10 2. Jesus' Resurrection: In 1 Peter 1:3-5 we are given a description of the blessings we receive because Jesus was raised from the dead. a. born again: The term "begotten" means "to be born". We are therefore born again through Jesus' resurrection. I have a new life, a new beginning, a new outlook, and a new goal because of God's abundant mercy and grace. It says we are born again to a "living hope". Our rebirth begins a life of hope - the hope of heaven. b. eternal, undefiled inheritance: Because Jesus rose from the dead I know that I too will someday rise from the dead and live forever in heaven with God. God promises me an inheritance that will never grow old and never lose its value. The "good news" about the resurrection of Jesus is that I can look forward to my resurrection to live with God in heaven. In 1 Corinthians 15:17 it says if Christ has not been raised from the dead then our faith is worthless. We would have no hope if it were not for Jesus being raised from the grave. Not all, however, will obtain the inheritance that God has made available. The condition is set forth, once again, that it is through faith. I must do my part if I am going to have this hope. C. I Must Do My Part: The gospel or "good news" is what we have because of the grace of God in sending His Son to die on the cross and raising Him from the dead. God has given us the means by which we can come to Him, no longer be separated from Him, and ultimately live with Him in heaven forever. These blessings are there for us IF we live by faith. Again the question must be asked: What does God, then, require for me to do to have my sins forgiven? Let's examine Romans 6 to see at what point in time we die to sin and live for God. III. My Life of Faith A. Being United With Christ: In Romans 6:3-4 we are told how we can be united with Jesus in His death, burial, and resurrection. In this union I am showing my faith in God by obeying the gospel (which is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus). In 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10 we are told that eternal destruction is reserved for those who "do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus". When we die to sin the way Jesus died on the cross, are buried with Him, and are raised to walk a new life (as discussed in 1 Peter 1:3-5) then we make the transition from a separation from God to a relationship with Him. Q: How am I united with Jesus death, burial, and resurrection? B. Descriptions of the Old and New Lives: In Romans 6:4-11 we are given a comparison between the "old man" (the life we lived prior to baptism) and the "new man" (the life we live after baptism). Remember the context is speaking of the point in time when they died to sin and began to live for God. This section describes the differences between the life before and after we die to sin. 1. Prior to Baptism: a. body of sin: The old man is described as a "body of sin". This implies a life of sin (as we have studied in the previous lesson on Ephesians 2:1-10). Prior to baptism we are living according to our desires, following the course of the world, and separated from God due to our sin. b. slaves to sin: Prior to baptism we are slaves to sin. A slave obeys their master (in this case the master is sin). I am kept in bondage to sin until I turn to God and follow Him (making Him my master). This is why Jesus says in Mark 16:15-16 that those who believe and are baptized will be saved because until we take that step our sins will keep us from being saved. 2. After Baptism: a. newness of life: This is the same analogy as being "born again" (mentioned in 1 Peter 1:3-5). We have a new life because we have a new direction and hope. Baptism is the point in time when we die to sin and therefore begin a new life for God. b. freed from sin: Prior to baptism we are slaves to sin but after baptism we are freed from sin, we now live for God. c. dead to sin and alive to God: After baptism my desires are to live for God and not for sin. Baptism is like a marriage. When you are baptized you are committing yourself to God for life. Your service to Him does not end but begins at baptism (the main point of Romans 6). -9-

11 C. A New Way of Life: Paul concludes this section in Romans 6:12-14 by emphasizing the type of life a Christian should lead. Remember he is looking back to a point in time when this commitment and relationship began (at baptism) and describes the life that should be led based on this commitment. After we have been baptized we are servants of God for righteousness and no longer servants of sin. IV. Other Scriptures on Baptism A. Repentance & Forgiveness of Sins: In Acts 2:37-38 Peter has concluded a sermon to those Jews who had crucified Jesus convicting them of killing the Christ. Their reaction is, "What shall we do?" This is a very important question. It is the same question we all ask (and asked at the end of the previous lesson). The answer will tell us what we need to know about salvation and what God specifically requires. Peter responds by instructing them to repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of their sins. Repentance involves changing the way you think. The decision must be made to turn away from sin and turn to God. Another requirement is set forth for them to do to be saved. They had to be baptized, the reason for which was for the forgiveness of sins. This indicates that my sins are not forgiven prior to baptism and matches perfectly with what was said in Romans 6 about baptism being the point in time when I begin my new life with God. B. The Apostle Paul As An Example: Paul's life is a good example of salvation and the purpose of baptism. While on the road to Damascus to persecute Christians (prior to his becoming a Christian) he saw a bright light and spoke with Jesus. He understood at that point that he was wrong in what he was doing and decided to follow Jesus. Jesus said that it would be told to him what he should do when he got to Damascus. Upon arriving The Life of Paul Bright Light Talk with Jesus Baptism Sins washed away in there a man named Ananias came to him and spoke the words we find in Acts 22:16. Paul is told to be baptized to wash away his sins. Again the purpose for baptism is indicated: to wash away our sins. Paul was not saved when he saw the bright light and spoke with Jesus. He wasn't saved when he knew he should go to Damascus. He wasn't saved until he did what God directed him to do: being baptized to wash away his sins. C. Baptism as an Act of Faith: In Galatians 3:26-27 we are told that we "are all sons of God through faith". For which ample proof has been given. Does this exclude baptism as a necessity for salvation? Absolutely not! We already noted that faith is (1) listening to God and (2) doing what He says. It will cause us to do what God instructs. This verse tells us how we are sons of God: "for as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ". Our baptism, therefore, is something we do by faith that allows us to "put on Christ". V. Implications A. Baptism Is A Commitment We Make: Paul makes it clear that baptism is a personal decision we make to give our lives to God. Someone else cannot make that decision for us and we must be of an age that where we are capable of making the choice to be baptized. Many have been baptized while babies, when they could not make the decision for themselves. This does not follow the examples of baptisms in the Bible in which all occur in people able to make the choice and the commitment themselves. B. Baptism Marks the Point of Forgiveness: From the texts we examined in this lesson, we have learned that it is at baptism where our sins are forgiven. Prior to baptism we are "slaves to sin" and thus separated from God (not saved). Through baptism our sins are forgiven and we thus are saved. Many, however, have accepted the Lord or had some spiritual experience through which they feel they are saved (prior to being baptized). At a later time they may have been baptized but not for the forgiveness of sins - because they feel that has already occurred. Therefore, their baptism was not for the purpose for which God designed it (the forgiveness of sins). C. Baptized God's Way: If we are not baptized for the reason God said then it does us no good. It is just getting wet and will not provide the forgiveness of sins until I do it in the proper way and for the proper reason. In Acts 19:1-7 is an account of twelve men who were baptized under the baptism of John (which looked forward to the coming of Jesus). They met Paul who asked them about their -10-

12 salvation and their baptism. When they came to understand that their first baptism was not to bring them into Christ they were baptized again, for the proper reason. This should be our example if we have been baptized for some reason other than what God has specified (the forgiveness of sins) or in some way other than what God has specified (emersion in water) or if we are just unsure of why we were baptized. VI. What's Involved in This Commitment? Prior to making a commitment, especially a commitment to God, it is important to know what is required. The following lesson will cover what our responsibilities are once we make our commitment to God. Commitment doesn't end at baptism it begins there. -11-

13 The Structure and Function of the Church I. Introductory Thoughts A. Beginning a Commitment to God: In the last lesson we looked at how we begin our relationship with God. When we are baptized we make the decision to live for God and no longer for sin. This is a very important decision and requires much thought prior to making. B. Purpose: The purpose of this lesson is to better understand what God requires of those who have made a commitment to Him. If there is thought of being baptized then this lesson will provide information that will make that decision easier. II. God's Design of the Church A. Walking Worthy: In Ephesians 4:1-6 Paul describes to those Christians the function of the church and why it is important. He begins by talking about walking worthy. Q: What does it mean to walk worthy? Go through the list of attitudes he mentions here and note that they all refer to our relationship with each other: 1. lowliness: the attitude of humility; not being arrogant or thinking of yourself as above others 2. gentleness: how I view, treat, and act toward others 3. longsuffering: the ability to act patiently toward others and their shortcomings 4. bearing with one another: how I react to the wrongs committed to me by others In other words, a "worthy walk" depends on my relationship with other Christians. This is why the following verses talk about the church and its importance because it is through the church that we learn to walk worthy. B. The Unity Required: In Ephesians 4:4-6 there are seven "one's" mentioned. In this unity there is a description of God's design of the church. Examine each of these and see what it is saying about the church and our role in it. 1. one body, one Lord, one God: In Colossians 1:18-20 we have a description of the connection between the body, the Lord, and God. Q: What is the body? Why does he use this description? A body has many parts, each part is necessary and serves a function vital to the health of the body. Each member of the body depends on the other members to do what needs to be done. The church is described as a body because it functions the same way our bodies do. Each member of the church is necessary, and when each does their part then growth will occur. We individually have a role in the function of the church. After we are baptized it is not just us and God but it is us, God, and others who have made the same commitment we have. Jesus is described as the head of the body. Jesus controls the church the same way our heads control our bodies. The church listens to His direction and follows His example. Just as my body does not do what someone else's head says so it is with the church. We are not the Lord's body (church) unless we listen to what He wants us to do. Those who follow the teachings of men are not members of the body of Christ because He is not their head. In Colossians 1:18-20 God is described as the one who designed the church and its workings. It was God's will that Jesus was the head and that we would work together to accomplish His will. As we look at the seven "one's" mentioned we should note that this is God's wisdom at work for our benefit. -12-

14 2. one Spirit: In John 6:63 Jesus identifies the Spirit with life. Just as our bodies are dead without our spirits, so the church is dead without the Spirit. Jesus defines the role of the Spirit in this verse by stating, "the words I speak to you are spirit, and they are life". The words of Christ (and His teachings brought to us through the apostles' teachings and the teachings of men inspired by the Holy Spirit) are what gives the church life. The goal of the church should be to learn, study, and apply the word to their lives. If this is absent then the church will die. There are churches whose goal seems to be wrapped up in entertainment or social activities, and no real concern over following and holding to the truth as found in the Bible. If the church is not intent on the truth then it is dead. 3. one hope: In the last lesson we noted that through the resurrection of Jesus we have the hope of being raised from the dead to be with God in heaven forever. In 1 Peter 1:3-5 it describes the hope that we have and the glory of heaven for which we seek. God has designed the church to help us all reach that wonderful goal. 4. one faith: We have discussed already what faith is and its importance in our relationship with God. Again, faith is (1) listening to God, and (2) doing what He says. Each and every day should be lived by faith. This will cause us to read, study, and learn the Bible (listening to the head), and then move us to act on what we have learned (following the head). Hebrews 11:6 tells us the importance of faith in bringing us to heaven, without this attribute we could not reach the goal. 5. one baptism: We noted in the last lesson the importance of baptism. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 we see that we enter into the body (church) by being baptized. Baptism begins our relationship with Him and our responsibilities to each other. Some feel you need to be voted into the church or go through a certain number of classes to become a member. This isn't what we find in these verses. III. The Gifts Given A. A Gift for Each of Us: In Ephesians 4:7-11 it says we each have been given a gift from Christ. The context is speaking of spiritual gifts (miraculous) given to the early Christians for the purpose of establishing and strengthening the church of the first century. Some of the gifts are mentioned in verse apostles: those chosen by Christ to teach others His doctrine. 2. prophets: those speaking the word of God and future events. 3. evangelists: those who proclaim the gospel of Christ. 4. pastors: elders of the church given the task of guiding the church. 5. teachers: those spreading the truth to others. These all had varying abilities and opportunities but were given gifts for the purpose of helping others learn and apply the truth to their lives. We can make the application from these verses as we examine the various abilities, opportunities, and blessings we have been given to help others learn and apply the truth. B. The Purpose of the Gifts: In Ephesians 4:12-16 we are shown the purpose in the gifts that they (and we) are given. Three times in verse 12 it mentions the word "for". These will indicate the goal God has for us in the use of what we've been given. 1. for the equipping of the saints: To equip here means to bring to a completion. Saints refer to all Christians. One purpose, then, for what God has given us is that we would work to help others develop and grow to a point where they are mature and strong in their life with God. 2. for the work of ministry: The term ministry means service. Our goal must be to help others grow to a point where they are seeking to serve others. They should see the example of service in our lives. 3. for the edifying of the body: Edifying means building up or encouraging. We need to be helping others learn how to encourage the weak and strengthen those who have needs. They should see the example of edification in us. God has blessed us with gifts, abilities, and opportunities for a reason -- to help others grow closer to Him and ultimately live in heaven with Him. It is easy to lose sight of this by thinking selfishly. If we feel as though we don't need the church then we are looking at it from the wrong perspective. We -13-

15 may not think we need the church but the church sure needs us. There are those who are experiencing trials that we may have gone through that need our help to stay strong. Others are struggling with temptations that we have learned to overcome - they need us. We have a responsibility to them. C. The Result of Using What God Has Given Me: Verses 13 and 14 of this text describe the results when we each use what we have been given by God for the purposes He designed. 1. unity of the faith: When we all are thinking of others and how we can help them live the way God directs in His word then we develop a unity. Together we are working toward the goal. 2. knowledge of Christ: This term means complete or full knowledge. When we have each others' best interest in mind then we get to know Christ because this is how He acted. 3. perfect: This term means complete. We are not complete until we learn to serve and help others. 4. fullness of Christ: We reach a maturity when we think of others, the same maturity found in Christ. 5. no longer children: Our dedication to each other and to God will hold us to doing what is right, we will not be swayed by the error of other doctrines. IV. The Growth that Occurs A. Speaking the Truth in Love: In Ephesians 4:15-16 it summarizes what it means to serve one another. 1. We teach one another: It says we need to speak the truth in love. Our goal must be to teach, instruct, and help one another. This is why we sing - to teach and encourage one another. This is why we have Bible studies - so we can learn from each other. 2. We speak the truth: We must make sure what we teach is in accordance with the Bible. 3. We speak with love: We must make sure our goal is for their greatest benefit and not for our selfish interests. When we do these we will cause the growth of the church. In Ephesians 4:16 it indicates that this growth comes when we each do our part. Whatever your ability or opportunity or gift may be, use it to help others. In 1 Peter 4:10-11 it says exactly that, when we do so we are good stewards of what God has given us. B. Importance in Being a Part: Once we become a Christian we have a tremendous responsibility that we should not take lightly. The effort we put forth in helping others will, in turn, serve to encourage and strengthen our own walk with God. In Hebrews 10:19-25 we are given three encouragements toward our personal growth and the growth of the church. 1. let us draw near: Since Jesus has given us a way to come to God we should be encouraged to take the steps necessary to draw near to Him. 2. let us hold fast: Since we know that God will always care for us and ultimately bring us to our home in heaven, we should have courage to continue to live for Him. 3. let us consider one another: Our focus should be on helping others grow in love and good works. One way this is done is in our assembling together. Don't miss an opportunity to help others by forsaking our gathering together. God designed the church in such a way that we all could grow closer to Him. Our part is in serving, use your ability to give glory to God and help others grow. -14-