Facing Faith s Challenges

Transcription

1 Life in Christ Facing Faith s Challenges Defending the Faith and Answering Life s Important Questions Andrew A. Cammenga

2 Life in Christ Facing Faith s Challenges Defending the Faith and Answering Life s Important Questions Rev. Andrew A. Cammenga

3 Facing Faith s Challenges: Defending The Faith and Answering Life s Important Questions Published by First United Reformed Church, 6159 Riverside Drive, Chino, California Distributed by Reformed Fellowship, Inc., 3363 Hickory Ridge Ct. SW, Grandville, MI Phone: sales@reformedfellowship.net. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means for example: electronic, photocopy, recording without the prior written permission of the publisher. The only exception is brief quotations in printed reviews. Requests for permission to quote from this book or to translate it into other languages should be directed to: Clerk of Council, First United Reformed Church, 6159 Riverside Drive, Chino, CA, Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the Holy Bible, New International Version. NIV. Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked ESV are from the Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV. Copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked NKJV are from the Holy Bible, New King James Version. NKJV. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Quotations of the Christian Creeds and Reformed Confessions are from the Psalter Hymnal, Copyright 1976, Board of Publications of the Christian Reformed Church, Inc., Grand Rapids, MI. Quotations of The Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms are from The Confession of Faith and Catechisms, Copyright 2005, The Committee on Christian Education of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Willow Grove, PA. Book design by Jeff Steenholdt /Erika De Vries. ISBN: Printed in the United States of America 2

4 General Editor s Acknowledgments Many people have contributed to the writing and preparation of this series of books, Life In Christ. I want to thank the council of the First United Reformed Church, Chino, California, for their vision, love for the truth, and commitment to prepare these instructional materials for young people in accord with the glorious truths of God s Word and the Reformed confessions. The council and congregation have graciously granted me time away from many of my regular pastoral duties to work on this project over the past five years, and have prayed for and contributed significantly towards its completion. We thank the many congregations in the United Reformed federation who have made this curriculum possible by their faithful prayer and financial support, as well as their evaluations. I am grateful to each of the authors for diligently preparing these lessons written out of their experiences as pastors, teachers, and parents who show their deep love for the Word of God, our confessions, and young people and others who will benefit from their insights. I deeply appreciate the careful attention to details demonstrated by our editors, including Rev. Doug and Grace Barnes, Laura Darnell, Annette Gysen, Glenda Mathes, Dr. Scott Swanson, and Marcia Vander Pol who each had a part in editing various aspects of the curriculum. The input and leadership of the members of the Committee of Oversight have been very valuable. Members have included Dan Dundon, Mike Meeks, John Rietkerk, Stacy Soerens, Geoff Vanden Heuvel, Larry Vanden Berge, and Wilma Van Dyk. Joan Dundon, our church secretary, has graciously contributed in far too many ways to list. Special thanks goes to Jeff Steenholdt and his staff, as well as Henry Gysen, for the wise counsel they have offered and the professional work they have accorded this project. Above all others I am profoundly indebted to my loving wife, Faye, my constant companion and encourager, best friend, most valuable critic, and insightful editor, without whose help these volumes would not have been completed, and my children who also greatly encouraged me. I am especially grateful to my son, Timothy, who provided the original concept for the logo and contributed to the basic design of the covers. And most of all I thank our gracious God who gave me eternal life, though totally undeserving, this privilege to write and edit Life In Christ, a love for His Word and the confessions, and a deep interest in the history of God s people. Rev. Ronald Scheuers January 2011 Author s Acknowledgments These lessons would not have been possible without the encouragement, help, and insights of many. I thank God for parents who instilled in me a love for the Bible and the Reformed faith already as a child. I am also indebted to a number of theologians (quoted in these lessons) whose insights have been invaluable. I also wish to thank my daughter, Ellen Korthuis, for her encouragements and suggestions while editing the first drafts as well as the input and encouragement of Marcia Vander Pol, Glenda Mathes, and Rev. Ronald Scheuers who finetuned the final product. A special word of thanks to the First United Reformed Church of Chino, California, and its pastor, Rev. Ronald Scheuers, whose leadership, prayers, and financial commitment made the entire curriculum possible. Rev. Andrew A. Cammenga 3

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6 CONTENTS Lesson 1 Preparing for Faith s Challenges 7 CHALLENGES TO THE CHRISTIAN FAITH Lesson 2 The Existence of God 11 Lesson 3 Why the Bible? 17 Lesson 4 Is Jesus the Only Way? 25 Lesson 5 Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? 31 Lesson 6 Is God Fair? 37 Lesson 7 Is the Creation Account a Myth? 43 CHALLENGES TO THE REFORMED FAITH Lesson 8 What Does It Mean To Be Reformed? 51 Lesson 9 No Creed But Christ? 59 Lesson 10 Baptize Believers Dedicate Babies! (1) 65 Lesson 11 Baptize Believers Dedicate Babies! (2) 71 Lesson 12 The Lord s Supper 77 Lesson 13 Predestination (Election) 85 Lesson 14 Election vs. Free Will 97 Lesson 15 Weekend or Lord s Day? 105 Lesson 16 Church Membership: Who Needs It? 117 Lesson 17 The Jews Are God s Chosen People 123 Lesson 18 Faith is Not Enough: Deeds not Creeds 133 CHALLENGES TO THE PRACTICE OF THE REFORMED FAITH Lesson 19 How Are We to Worship? (1) 143 Lesson 20 How Are We to Worship? (2) 151 Lesson 21 How to Make Godly Decisions 161 Lesson 22 What Should I Know About Marriage? 173 Lesson 23 What About Witnessing? 183 Lesson 24 Is My Faith Real? 197 Lesson 25 Our One Great Goal 203 5

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8 LESSON 1 Preparing for Faith s Challenges THE CHALLENGE We ve prayed it a thousand times: And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil (or the evil one). But how often do we really mean it? When you pray that prayer, do you really ever think about the devil as a roaring lion seeking to devour you (1 Peter 5:8)? Are you aware that more Christians were martyred during the 1900s than at any other time in history? Yes, that s true, even more than in the first century during the brutal reign of Nero the Roman Emperor (A.D )! TOWARD AN ANSWER 1. The Heidelberg Catechism (Q. and A. 127) speaks about our sworn enemies as, The devil, the world, and our own sinful flesh. What do you think that means? 2. Name three things you think are our greatest threats or enemies today. Explain why you think so. a. b. c. You will face different kinds of challenges because you are a Reformed Christian. You ve probably encountered some of those challenges already. I m sure you have been told, The Bible doesn t tell us to baptize babies, or I don t have to belong to a church to be a Christian! or If God chooses some and not others to eternal life, then He s unfair. 7

9 Well, these are just some of the challenges and questions that you will have to deal with as responsible adults and members of Christ s church. The lessons which follow are intended to help prepare you for some of these challenges, so this should be an interesting and profitable study for you. The Way to Success Obviously these lessons alone are not enough to prepare us for the challenges that face us. Our enemies are too strong, and our own resources are too limited. Only God is able to keep us in the faith and give us special resources for this battle. TOWARD AN ANSWER 3. What are the main weapons God gives us to defeat our enemies? Matthew 26:41 Ephesians 6:10 18 (especially verses 17 and 18) Psalm 119: Luke 4: Summarize 2 Timothy 3: What promises are given to us regarding prayer in the following verses? 1 John 1:9 Luke 11:13 James 4:2 3 John 14:13 14 List some other promises in the Bible regarding prayer. 8

10 If the Bible is the way God has ordained to guide and instruct us, and if prayer is how we communicate with Him, is it any wonder that the devil does his best to keep us from both Bible reading and prayer? Ultimately it is through prayer and Scripture that blessings, spiritual success, and a real relationship with God will come. So at the very beginning of our lessons, I would like to challenge each of you to commit yourself to daily devotions, that is, to daily Bible reading and prayer. TOWARD AN ANSWER 6. Are you willing to make this commitment, if you haven t already? 7. Are you willing to be held accountable for that commitment? (That means you will be asked from time to time how you are doing.) 8. At what time each day will you have your daily devotions? 9. In which book of the Bible do you plan to begin reading? Suggestions for Devotions There are many different Bible study methods (see 12 Dynamic Bible Study Methods by Richard Warren and William A. Shell). It is good to change methods from time to time so that our personal devotions don t get stale. If you need some suggestions to get started (or re-started), here are some that could help. It is helpful to set a specific time each day for your personal devotions. For most of us, first thing in the morning is best. (Maybe this will mean getting up fifteen minutes earlier.) For some it might be better just before bedtime. Try to be consistent with the time you choose to be alone with God. (Having a set time doesn t mean that you shouldn t pray at other times, such as before an exam that is, if you remember that prayer is not a substitute for studying!) Begin by asking God to teach you with His Word. Use your own Bible so you can underline and make notes. Have a reading schedule. For example, start by reading through the gospel of Luke, reading fifteen or twenty verses each day. Or read through the book of Psalms, one each day. 9

11 Ask yourself questions like these: What is God telling me in this passage? Is there a command for me to obey? Is there a sin that needs to be confessed? Is there a promise to remember? Is there someone who needs my prayers or help? Have a notebook in which you can keep a journal of these insights and items for prayer. (One person went through the Psalms and wrote down how God describes Himself and the promises He gives. He ended up with a list of almost 250 items!) End with a prayer which especially responds to what you have just read. Generally construct your prayers using the acronym ACTS so that you will not get into a prayer rut or only pray for what you want and need. Key Words and Concepts Adoration praising God for who He is and what He has done. Confession telling God about our sin. Remember Psalm 66:18. Thanksgiving giving thanks for God s wonderful blessings. Supplication asking God for your needs and the needs of others. Here is where the notebook or journal comes in handy. For each area of prayer, Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication, you can jot down things to include (e.g. names from the church and school bulletins) and also God s answers to your prayers. TOWARD AN ANSWER 10. Describe something that you do or should do in your devotions that has been or could be helpful to you. FOR MEMORY 2 Timothy 3:16 and 17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 10

12 LESSON 2 The Existence of God THE CHALLENGE The first man in space, the famous Russian Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, is said to have commented after his 108 minute space flight in 1961, I didn t see God out there. TOWARD AN ANSWER 1. What do you think of the statement above attributed to Gagarin? 2. Name at least two factors that may cause people to question the existence of God today more than they did in the past. 1) 2) 3. Have you ever struggled with the question of God s existence? What brought on the doubt? How did you work through it? Was there anything specific that helped to bring back your faith? 11

13 Key Words and Concepts Atheism Belief that there is no God. Agnosticism Belief that claims God s existence is unprovable or unknowable. Polytheism Belief that there are many gods. Monotheism Belief that there is only one God. There are actually very few people who deny the existence of any god. Perhaps Psalm 14 gives us the reason, since it reminds us that only a fool would do that! Wherever you go, whatever period of history you investigate, there is an acknowledgment of a god or gods. At different times nations 1 have tried to eradicate God-belief but without success. Ecclesiastes 3:11 reminds us that one reason these attempts are futile is because God has put eternity in the hearts of men. This doesn t mean that we will not have serious God-challengers. The challenge will come; however, not so much from those who deny the existence of some God, but from those who deny the existence of the Triune God of the Scriptures. There is, in addition, such a thing as practical atheism. A practical atheist is one who claims to acknowledge the God of the Bible, but lives as if God doesn t exist or doesn t matter. That seems to be a description of too many people today even many in the church! 4. How does Isaiah 31:1 describe practical atheism? 5. Read Romans 1: a. What does the book of nature reveal? b. What do people do with this knowledge of God? 12

14 c. According to verse 20, what does this knowledge of God do to everyone as they stand before God on the day of judgment? d. Did those who rejected that revelation of God become atheists? It is important to remember that though someone claims to believe in God, it doesn t necessarily mean that he or she is a Christian or a true worshipper, for even demons believe there is a God (James 2:19). SOME ANSWERS Over the centuries there have been many attempts to prove the existence of God through logical argumentation. Some of the more popular proofs for God s existence are: a. Anthropological: Argument from Universal Morality b. Cosmological: Argument from Cause c. Teleological: Argument from Design The Anthropological or Moral Argument says that the universal existence of conscience is proof that God exists. C.S. Lewis 2 and others would ask: Why is honor better than dishonor, bravery better than cowardice, giving better than stealing? Why are some things right and other things wrong, even though we may not do them or they may not please us? Who said so? Where does this universal assumption of right and wrong come from, if not from a universal Lawgiver? 6. Do you think that Romans 2:15 supports this argument? Why or why not? 7. Someone has said that if there was no God we would have to invent one. Why would we? 13

15 The Cosmological Argument argues for the existence of God on the basis of what we see all around us. R. C. Sproul 3 argues, If something exists now, something has always existed from all eternity or there would be nothing. Somehow, somewhere, someone or something must have the power of being within himself, and that one who has the power of being within himself we call God. 8. What do you think of this argument? How would you restate this argument in your own words? The Teleological Argument was put forward by William Paley. This eighteenth century philosopher wrote:... when we come to inspect the [wrist] watch, we perceive... that its several parts are framed and put together for a purpose, e.g. that they are so formed and adjusted as to produce motion, and that motion so regulated as to point out the hour of the day; that if the different parts had been differently shaped from what they are, or placed after any other manner or in any other order than that in which they are placed, either no motion at all would have been carried on in the machine, or none which would have answered the use that is now served by it... the inference we think is inevitable, that the watch must have had a maker that there must have existed, at some time and at some place or other, an artificer or artificers who formed it for the purpose which we find it actually to answer, who comprehended its construction and designed its use. 9. Does the Bible in any way endorse this argument for the existence of God? 10. Why does Psalm 14:1 describe an atheist as it does? 11. Of what benefit, if any, are these proofs to you? 14

16 12. Will your unbelieving neighbor be convinced by these proofs? Why or why not? To help answer this question please see: Luke 16:31; Romans 8:7; Heidelberg Catechism Q. 8; Canons of Dort III, IV, 3 and 4; Belgic Confession XIV. THE BIBLE S ANSWER The arguments for the existence of God have impressed many of the world s brightest people, and may certainly be of some use in the defense of our faith and witnessing. However, the Bible doesn t argue the existence of God. God s existence doesn t need proof! 13. Recall how the Bible begins. 14. Review what God reveals: a. In nature (Psalm 19:1 3 and Romans 1:19, 20). b. In man s heart (Ecclesiastes 3:11 and Acts 17:22, 23). 15

17 CONFESSIONAL STATEMENTS We know Him by two means: first, by the creation, preservation, and government of the universe; which is before our eyes a most elegant book, wherein all creatures, great and small, are as so many characters leading us to contemplate the invisible things of God, namely, his eternal power and divinity, as the apostle Paul saith (Romans 1:20). All which things are sufficient to convince men and leave them without excuse. Belgic Confession, Article 2. 2Q. How doth it appear that there is a God? A. The very light of nature in man, and the works of God, declare plainly that there is a God.... Westminster Larger Catechism. Because of this testimony and evidence of God s existence, Paul could warn the philosophers of Athens that God... commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world... (Acts 17:30, 31). This solemn warning reminds us that in the end, God does not have to prove Himself to us, but we to Him! If you have questions to ask during class discussion, jot them down in the space below. for memory Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world God s invisible qualities His eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. 1. Examples of this are the French Revolution and Stalin s regime in the USSR. 2. Lewis, C. S. Mere Christianity. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., p Sproul, R. C. Now, That s a Good Question! Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., p

18 LESSON 3 Why the Bible? THE CHALLENGE Christians have often been called people of the book, referring to the fact that the Bible determines their faith and life. Yet there are millions of other sincere people who have their own sacred books and, as a consequence, have completely different religious ideas. So who is right? TOWARD AN ANSWER 1. What sacred books are you aware of that claim to be directly from God? What do you know about these books and/or their origins? 2. What have people said to you to challenge your confidence in the Bible? Which challenges that are common today do you think are the most serious or most difficult to answer? How important is it for us to make a defense of our faith? Look at 1 Peter 3:

19 Key Words and Concepts Inspiration of Scripture The Holy Spirit s supernatural guidance of the authors of the Bible so that what they wrote was the very Word of God. Verbal Inspiration The teaching that each word of the Bible is inspired. Plenary Inspiration The teaching that each part of the Bible is equally God s Word. Inerrancy The teaching that the Bible is without error in all that is says. Infallibility Often a synonym for inerrancy, but infallibility is also the teaching that the Bible is fully trustworthy. TOWARD AN ANSWER When I struggle with challenges to the Christian faith, I am always encouraged to know that others have struggled with these same issues. In fact, I do not know of any challenge or heresy today that is really new. They ve all been dealt with in the past in one way or another by God s people. So how did the church deal with the many challenges to the Bible and still remain people of the book? You can read many books that list reasons to be confident in the Bible (called apologetics ). However, the supreme reason for confidence is that the Bible itself claims to be the Word of God. The Bible Claims to Be the Very Word of God I would like you to think about this claim for just a moment. To say that the Bible is God s Word is to say everything! Is it infallible? Of course, it is God s Word! Is it inspired? Definitely, it is God s Word! Is it without error? Certainly, it is God s Word! Is it true? Of course, it is God s Word! Is it trustworthy? Without a doubt, it is God s Word! You cannot say anything more profound or more honoring, than to say that the Bible is God s Word. 3. What do the following passages say about the Word of God and its claim to be from God? Jeremiah 13:3 Ezekiel 1:3 Zechariah 12:1 Acts 2:7 Romans 1:2 Romans 3:2 18

20 1 Corinthians 14:37 Hebrews 5:12 2 Peter 1:21 2 Peter 3:16 4. Does the Bible simply contain the Word of God, or is the Bible the Word of God? Explain your answer. 5. What controversial teachings of the Bible did Jesus accept in each of these passages? Matthew 19:4 Matthew 24:37 39 Luke 17: Read John 10:34 39 and answer these questions. a. Why is it significant that Jesus considered Psalm 82:6 part of the Law? b. What does it mean to you that Scripture cannot be broken? c. Where in Matthew does Jesus make a similar affirmation? 7. Read Matthew 22: What does this argument tell you about Jesus attitude toward the Bible? 8. What other passages can you think of that show Jesus confidence in the Bible? 19

21 Something to think about: Can someone really believe in Jesus and still doubt parts of the Bible? 9. Second Timothy 3:14 16 are Paul s testimony regarding the Bible. Read these verses to answer the questions below. a. What does Paul mean when he speaks of the holy Scriptures? b. What does Paul mean when he says Scripture is God-breathed? c. Some versions of the Bible say, All (every) Scripture is inspired of God. However, God-breathed is a better translation of the Greek word theopnuestos. What difference in understanding could that make? 10. True or False: The Bible speaks infallibly in all matters of faith and practice. Explain your answer. Bible Prophecy Affirms Its Claims I would be a fool to argue with someone who said, Only God knows the future. Of course, only God knows the future. We have no idea what tomorrow will bring, let alone what will happen next year. If fortune tellers could really tell the future, they would all be zillionaires! Therefore, the fulfillment of prophecy in the Bible is one of the outstanding affirmations that the Bible is indeed God s Word. Nelson s Illustrated Bible Dictionary claims that: Over 300 prophecies in the Bible speak of Jesus Christ. Specific details given by these prophecies include His tribe (Genesis 49:10); His birthplace (Micah 5:2); dates of His 20

22 birth and death (Daniel 9:25 26); His forerunner, John the Baptist (Malachi 3:1; 4:5; Matthew 11:10); His career and ministry (Isaiah 52:13 53:12); His crucifixion (Psalm 22:1 18); His resurrection (Psalm 16:8 11; Acts 2:25 28); His ascension (Psalm 2; Acts 13:33); and His exaltation as a priest-king (Psalm 110; Acts 2:34). There are also many other prophecies that have been fulfilled. Think of the prophecies regarding: Tyre (Ezekiel 26:3 5,14 21); Egypt (Ezekiel 29:10,15; 30:6,12,13); Ethiopia (Nahum 3:8 10); Nineveh (Nahum 1:10; 2:8 13; 3:17 19); Babylon (Isaiah 13:4; Jeremiah 51:7; Isaiah 44:28); and the nations following the reign of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 2:39 and 40; 7:17 24; 8:9). In addition, of course, the Bible prophesied the fall and destruction of Jerusalem (Micah 3:12; Matthew 24:2). Truly, the Bible is an amazing book. No! In view of these fulfilled prophesies it must be more than an amazing book; it must be the very Word of God. A Testimony from the Past The Bible as we now have it in its various translations and revisions when freed from all errors and mistakes of translators, copyists and printers, is the very Word of God, and consequently, wholly without error. From the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in The Challenge of Biblical Error What about the Bible s errors? If you haven t been challenged with the claim that the Bible has errors, just wait you will be. And, once again, as said in the beginning of this lesson, it is good to remember that these are not new challenges. They ve been around a long time. If someone suggests that there are errors in the Bible, ask him to name them. Often people make empty claims which, like urban legends, are repeated over and over without any basis. So challenge them to name some mistakes. Someone might say that the church severely opposed Galileo when he put forth the idea of a heliocentric universe. It is true that the church opposed Galileo and most believed that the world was flat, but the Bible didn t teach that. (By the way, we still speak of the sun rising and setting, but do not intend to suggest that the sun orbits the earth!) We should urge people not to accuse the Bible of saying things it doesn t. Not every allegation of biblical error is so easily dismissed, however. Most of these so-called errors disappear when dealt with fairly. In fact, many charges have been dismissed because of new archaeological discoveries. At one time, according to Halley s Bible Handbook, it was thought that Daniel 5:30 was wrong when it spoke of Belshazzar. In 1853, however, an inscription was found on a corner stone of a temple built by Nabonidas which spoke of Belshazzar. This discovery helps us see how research is often needed before we can explain what some have said is an error. 21

23 Another new discovery solved what seemed to be a contradiction between Mark 10:46 and Luke 18:35. Mark says that Jesus healed a blind man as he was leaving the city, and Luke says it happened as he was entering the city. The solution turned out to be simple. Archaeology has shown that there was an old Jericho and a new Jericho next to it. Whether Jesus was entering or leaving depends on which city you have reference to. So much depends on perspective, doesn t it? Two people report the same incident from different perspectives, and both reports are true. This demonstrates that each gospel writer tells the same story, but from a different perspective and with a different purpose. When you think about it, you must conclude that the Bible is really an incredible book. It was written over a period of 1500 years by at least 30 authors, and each one affirms the message of the others! What are the odds of that? And even now, 2000 years later, the more we learn about the past the more the Bible s accuracy is affirmed. TOWARD AN ANSWER 11. Have you been challenged with any errors in the Bible? Would you like help to deal with any of them? There are a few difficulties or apparent contradictions for which we simply don t have the answer. Some will be answered as we gain more knowledge of the ancient world. Answers for others will have to wait until we get to heaven. In the meantime, we are amazed how the Bible has stood up over all these centuries against all its detractors. It truly is the Word of God. FOR FURTHER THOUGHT 1. Is it our place to judge the Bible or does the Bible judge us? 2. How do our traditions or feelings sometimes undermine the authority of God s Word? 3. How can we convince unbelievers to accept the Bible as God s Word? (See 1 Corinthians 2:14.) 4. We understand that the Scriptures are about Jesus. He is the seed promised to Adam, Eve and Abraham; the genealogies lead us to Christ; the symbols, sacrifices and sacraments speak of Him; the types and shadows look forward to Christ; the law is a schoolmaster to bring us to Jesus; the promises of God are fulfilled in Christ. Ultimately then, it is not 22

24 as important what you say about the Bible as it is what you do with the Bible! John said,... these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name (John 20:31). Have you done that? Publicly? for memory Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. 2 Peter 1:20 21 Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet s own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. Belgic Confession, Article 3 We confess that this Word of God was not sent nor delivered by the will of man, but that men spake from God, being moved by the Holy Spirit, as the apostle Peter says; and that afterwards God, from a special care which He has for us and our salvation, commanded His servants, the prophets and apostles, to commit His revealed word to writing.... ADDITIONAL CONFESSIONAL STATEMENTS ABOUT THE BIBLE Belgic Confession It is Holy and divine (Article 2). Nothing can be alleged against it (Article 4). We believe without any doubt, all things contained in it (Article 5). Westminster Confession of Faith, I, 4 The authority of the Holy Scripture, for which it ought to be believed and obeyed, depends not upon the testimony of any man or church, but wholly upon God (who is truth itself) the Author thereof; and therefore it is to be received because it is the word of God. FOR FURTHER READING Many excellent books deal with the inspiration of the Bible. Some of the more popular ones are: The Divine Inspiration of the Bible by Arthur W. Pink, God Has Spoken by James I. Packer, and Scripture Cannot Be Broken by Theodore Engelder. 23

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26 LESSON 4 Is Jesus the Only Way? THE CHALLENGE Non-Christians who ridicule the biblical doctrine that Jesus is the only way to get to heaven have challenged many of us. They usually assume that only the best people should go to heaven and rightly point out the failure of many Christians to live godly lives. Sadly, there are non-christians who often seem to live better lives, more moral and loving lives, than those who attend church regularly. Therefore, it seems unreasonable, even arrogant, to suggest that only believers in Jesus are saved. The suggestion that Jesus is the only way not only seems narrow-minded and contrary to logic, it also appears to subject God Himself to criticism. God seems unjust because there are unbelievers who have neither heard of Jesus nor read the Bible, and yet they seem to be as good as Christians. In view of this, how do we dare to believe that Jesus is the only way? How would we dare to suggest that a sincere person, especially a sincerely religious person, would go to hell just because he does not happen to believe in Jesus? TOWARD AN ANSWER 1. If you have struggled at all with this question, what was it that made you struggle? 2. Do you ever get the feeling that many people want to protect every religion except for Christianity? Give any examples you have of this. 25

27 Explain why this might be the case. Key Words and Concepts Universalism The teaching that almost everyone will eventually be saved even those who have never heard of Jesus or put their faith in Him. Eventually everyone will believe, will get a second chance to hear the message of Jesus, or will go to heaven after spending a time of probation in some kind of purgatory. The Bible s Teaching Many people are convinced that there are many ways to God. They say religions are like the spokes on a wheel, and that it doesn t matter which spoke you follow. Each religion or prophet eventually leads to God at the center. Let s discover what the Bible teaches on this very important matter so that we can answer this challenge to the Christian faith. About Sin It is true that sometimes the lives of unbelievers put believers to shame. That s a sad thing, of course. But when non-christians make this point, aren t they essentially boasting, I m a more honest thief than you? 3. Explain what is meant by the comparison of an unbeliever being a more honest thief than a believer. 4. Examine the following passages and summarize what God s Word teaches about sin in each passage. a. Genesis 6:5 b. Jeremiah 17:9 c. Romans 3:9 18, 23 d. 1 John 1:8, 10 26

28 Overall summary of the passages: 5. Where (exactly!) in our confessions would you look for the Bible s teaching on man s fall and depravity? About Sin s Consequences 6. What does the Heidelberg Catechism teach in Q. and A. 10? 7. No one in the Bible spoke more about the consequences of sin (hell) than Jesus. Please cite some of those passages and summarize what Jesus taught. (Reading Matthew 5 could help stimulate your thinking.) After examining God s Word, it is apparent that there is no one righteous and that all are under the sentence of eternal punishment. What should amaze us, then, is not that Jesus is the only way, but that there is any way at all! Praise God that He has made a way. About Jesus 8. Give three Old Testament passages or pictures that point to the one way of salvation. a. b. c. 27

29 9. What did the angels say about Jesus? a. Luke 2:11 b. Matthew 1: What three things did Jesus tell Nicodemus in John 3:14 18? a. b. c. 11. Read the Good Shepherd passage in John 10:1 21 and explain it as if you were talking to a child or seeker. Include claims and promises that you find in the passage. Throughout history there have been many who claimed to be teachers or prophets Muhammad being one of them. Only Jesus, however, claimed to be God. This not only sets Jesus apart from all others, but also qualifies Him to be the only Savior. 12. How does Matthew 26:42 help us answer the question of this lesson? 28

30 for memory John 14:6 Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Heidelberg Catechism 30Q. Do those who look for their salvation and security in saints, in themselves, or elsewhere really believe in the only Savior Jesus? A. No. Although they boast of being his, by their deeds they deny the only savior and deliverer, Jesus. Either Jesus is not a perfect savior, or those who in true faith accept this savior have in him all they need for their salvation. 29

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32 LESSON 5 Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? THE CHALLENGE If you haven t already struggled with this question, I can promise you that you will someday. It will happen when someone you love is diagnosed with leukemia, or a friend dies in an accident, or your child has severe birth defects, or you lose your job. My faith was often challenged when I made pastoral calls in a hospital pediatric ward. I also struggled hard and long with this question when a drunken driver killed my 16-year-old brother. So, why do bad things happen to good people? Unbelievers, obviously, do not have a problem explaining why bad things happen to good people. For them, what happens is often just a matter of bad luck or lousy karma, so tough it out, grin and bear it. A Christian, however, often struggles with this question. He believes not only in God, but also that God is righteous, omnipotent, and loving! An opponent to the Christian faith, John Stuart Mill, put the challenge something like this: If evil exists, God is either not loving or not almighty. So how do we deal with this challenge? TOWARD AN ANSWER 1. Perhaps you already know how to answer this lesson s question. So without looking at the rest of the lesson, spend about 5 minutes writing some of your answers. (You might surprise yourself!) 2. Read Judges 6:1 13. a. What question does Gideon ask that relates to this lesson? b. To what was Gideon referring? 31

33 c. Why should Gideon NOT have been surprised? d. How does this begin to answer our question? 3. What is the fundamental error of those who ask, Why do bad things happen to good people? List two or three Bible verses that support your answer. 4. Read Psalm 2:1 3. The psalmist describes man s relationship to God as one of rebellion. Give some examples of this rebellion today. The Ten Commandments may help stimulate your thinking. Key Concept People obviously ignore the fact of sin and rebellion when they ask, Why do bad things happen to good people? Man is responsible for his troubles; Adam was the one who welcomed the devil into paradise; he was the one who preferred sin to holiness. We continue to prefer sin and rebellion to obedience even today. Therefore, when we witness death and disease, or when disaster strikes, we must cry, What have we done?! Man is responsible for his troubles. Does that mean, therefore, that I am personally responsible in some way for my particular disease or trial? Is there some secret sin in my life for which I am being punished? Some people suggest that it pays to serve God. They claim 32

34 that only if you pay your tithe, attend church faithfully, maintain a consistent prayer life, and have a strong faith, will God reward you with long life, health and prosperity. thinking carefully 5. Do you know a fine Christian person whose troubles and trials would challenge the idea presented in the previous paragraph? Be prepared to share this with the class. 6. Name at least two exceptionally godly people in the Bible whose troubles challenge this idea. a. b. 7. Obviously, there are cases where troubles are the result of personal sin. Give some examples, either from the Bible or from personal experience. How does personal sin bring trouble into our lives? While some troubles are the result of personal sin, we must remember that this is the exception rather than the rule. We must not think that our diseases, handicaps, birth defects, sorrows, or other problems are God s way of punishing us for particular personal sins. This only adds to our burdens. Job s so-called friends made that mistake. Job did not suffer because he was a sinner, but because he was righteous (Job 1:8)! Remember that if you are a Christian, Jesus was punished for your sin. Key Concept Man s sinfulness is a fundamental part of our answer to this lesson s question. However, we must be careful not to personalize this that is, to think that someone is sick because he/she is guilty of some secret sin or lack of faith. 33

35 Isn t God in Charge? It is helpful to see that man s sin has brought about all the troubles we see in this world and that the trouble we experience is not the result of a particular sin. However, that will not always give much comfort when tragedy strikes you, your friend, or your family. Frequently you will still wonder, Where is God in all of this? To answer that question, we sometimes speak about God permitting these things. That way we do not make God the author of sin or ignore man s responsibility for the evil that we see or experience. However, God does not merely permit these things to happen. He sends them. He has the power to prevent, to change, to heal. Consider what some of our confessions teach: Heidelberg Catechism 26Q. What do you believe when you say: I believe in God the Father, almighty, maker of heaven and earth? A. That the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ... is my God and Father because of Christ his Son. I trust him so much that I do not doubt... he will turn to my good whatever adversity he sends me (emphasis mine) in this sad world. Belgic Confession, Article 13 We believe that the same good God, after He had created all things, did not forsake them or give them up to fortune or chance, but that He rules and governs them according to His holy will, so that nothing happens in this world without His appointment; nevertheless, God neither is the Author of nor can be charged with the sins which are committed. For His power and goodness are so great and incomprehensible that He orders and executes His work in the most excellent and just manner, even when devils and wicked men act unjustly. And as to what He does surpassing human understanding, we will not curiously inquire into farther than our capacity will admit of; but with the greatest humility and reverence adore the righteous judgments of God, which are hid from us, contenting ourselves that we are pupils of Christ, to learn only those things which He has revealed to us in His Word, without transgressing these limits. Westminster Confession of Faith (1647), V. Of Providence 1. God the Creator of all things doth uphold, direct, dispose, and govern all creatures, actions, and things.... These confessional statements are important because the Bible speaks clearly about God hardening hearts and God sending evil. 34

36 TOWARD AN ANSWER 8. Read and summarize each of these passages. Judges 2:10 15 Judges 6:1 Amos 3:6 9. Read the confessions quoted above again. What do you find there that is helpful in dealing with the whole problem of evil and suffering? AN ANSWER FOR GOD S PEOPLE This lesson began with Gideon s question concerning why evil had come upon Israel. We could answer that question by saying that evil had come upon them because God loved Israel and He would not let His people destroy themselves. In other words, the trouble they experienced was for their own good. This is also what Joseph told his brothers in Genesis 50:20. Joseph surely didn t understand this when he was sold into slavery or thrown into jail, but in the end it became clear. In the same way our troubles and trials are also meant for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28). Key Concept Philosophers and theologians have struggled hard and long with the whole question of evil, but God has provided us with His own answer: It is for His people s good and for His ultimate glory. We certainly may ask God to relieve us of our painful burdens as Paul did when he asked God to remove the thorn in his flesh. But if God does not remove them, we may expect blessings through these difficulties. Sometimes, like Israel, we need to be called back to our spiritual senses; sometimes we need to be shamed for our pride or disobedience; 35

37 sometimes we need to be taught to put first things first; sometimes others are blessed because of our testimony in our troubles. In Psalm 119:71 the psalmist said it was good for him to be afflicted! That s still true. God is still working good through it all. I must confess to you that it is much easier to write about these things than to experience them. The truth is, many times we cannot see the good or explain the reasons. We do not know how our troubles could possibly work out for good. Sometimes we pray until our knees are swollen and our voices are hoarse, but still, the answer does not come. Then we have to do what Habakkuk did: live by faith (Habakkuk 2:4), remembering that if God gave us His Son, there is no good thing He would withhold from us (Romans 8:32). TOWARD AN ANSWER 10. Read the wonderful story in John 9. What truths of this lesson does it reinforce? for memory Romans 8:28 For we know that all things work together for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Heidelberg Catechism 26Q. What do you believe when you say: I believe in God the Father, almighty, maker of heaven and earth? A. That the eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ... is my God and Father because of Christ his Son. I trust him so much that I do not doubt... he will turn to my good whatever adversity he sends me in this sad world. 36

38 LESSON 6 Is God Fair? THE CHALLENGE Nothing is more terrifying than hell, and no one in the Bible described it in more vivid and frightening ways than Jesus Himself. He speaks of hell as a place where the fire is not quenched and where there is weeping and wailing, and gnashing of teeth. Hell, obviously, is not a place where I want to end up for eternity, nor would I wish that punishment on anyone except, maybe, a Hitler. Jesus, however, indicated that many would find themselves in hell when He said, Wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it (Matthew 7:13 14). Sadly, this must be true since millions have rejected Him as Savior and multitudes have not even heard the good news of John 3:16. So we must ask, Is God fair? How can He condemn to hell those who have not even heard about Jesus, those who have never had the opportunity to turn to Him in repentance and faith? Is this fair? TOWARD AN ANSWER God Is Not Fair The word fair is used in many ways. If by fair we mean equal or the same, then the simple answer is: No, God is not fair! It should be obvious that God does not treat us all the same. Some are born to wealthy parents, some to poor; some free, some enslaved; some in a Christian home, some in a godless one; some with many talents, some with few; some sighted, some blind; some with perfect pitch, and some tone deaf. 1. How does Luke 19:11 27 help us understand that, from one perspective, God is not fair? 2. Would it be correct to say that, while God does not treat all people alike, He does treat them better than they deserve? Explain your answer. 37

39 3. So, is God fair? Key Concept While God is not fair (He does not treat all people alike), He is absolutely and perfectly just. He is not a respecter of persons. He never commits an injustice. We may be confident that the punishment God metes out will be exactly the punishment that is deserved. God Is Just 4. God s people expected justice from Him. Read and summarize the following passages. a. Genesis 18:20 33 b. Jeremiah 12:1 2 c. Romans 3:5 6 d. Revelation 6: The people s expectation of justice was grounded in God s very nature. a. Fill in the blank: God is. b. Read the following passages. Leviticus 11:45 Leviticus 19:1 2 38

40 Psalm 22:3 Isaiah 6:3 Revelation 4:8 c. Now, fill in the blank: God is. Most people would have filled the first blank with the word love. However, holy is the word that best describes God s nature. My concordance shows the word holy used 584 times in the Bible usually in connection with God or the things of God. God is never said to be Love, love, love or Mighty, mighty, mighty, but He is described and praised as Holy, holy, holy. Everything about God is holy: His love is holy, His actions are holy, His judgments are holy, His Son Jesus is holy, and His Spirit is holy. (It is worth remembering that the third person of the Holy Trinity is called the Holy Spirit not the Loving Spirit, or the Sweet Spirit, but the Holy Spirit.) It is because God is holy, holy, holy that His people expect and know that He will judge justly (See Job 34:10 12). CONFESSIONAL STATEMENTS ABOUT GOD Belgic Confession, Article 1 We all believe with the heart and confess with the mouth that there is one only simple and spiritual Being, which we call God; and that He is eternal, incomprehensible, invisible, immutable, infinite, almighty, perfectly wise, just (emphasis mine), good and the overflowing fountain of all good. Westminster Shorter Catechism (1647) 4Q. What is God? A. God is Spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable, in His being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice (emphasis mine), goodness, and truth. Heidelberg Catechism 11Q. But isn t God also merciful? A. God is certainly merciful, but he is also just. His justice demands that sin, committed against his supreme majesty, be punished with the supreme penalty eternal punishment of body and soul. God s Justice Fits the Crime 6. The Bible is not embarrassed to speak about God s wrath or judgment. Read these passages. a. Psalm 2:12 b. Psalm 29:9 39

41 c. Romans 1:18 d. Romans 2: The Bible also gives many examples of God s judgments that are just and fair. Name at least three. a. b. c. 8. Comment on this statement: Well, my God is a God of love, not one of wrath and punishment. 9. Where in the Bible are we reminded that there are lighter and heavier punishments? Why would that be? There Are No Innocent Victims We should be terribly concerned about those who will come under God s judgment. This concern should motivate us to pray and witness rather than try to find excuses for them or question God s righteous judgments. While there are many things that we do not understand, we may be sure that God is holy, sin will be punished, and, as we will see, no one is innocent! When we affirm the holiness and perfect justice of God, we are also confident that no one, absolutely no one, will be condemned for failure to believe in Jesus Christ if they have never heard the gospel message. However, they will be judged guilty for other sins, other terrible sins, but not for failing to believe in Jesus. 40

42 10. What does the Bible teach us in Romans 3:10 18, 23? 11. Romans 1:18 25 remind us how God s general revelation leaves people without excuse. Read this passage and answer the questions below. a. Define general revelation. b. What answer does this passage offer those who question God s fairness? c. Describe two or three responses people give to this revelation. 1) 2) 3) d. Give three or four reasons why they are without excuse and are, therefore, guilty sinners. 1) 2) 3) 4) 41