Session 2 I. Length: 1:20 hours II. Goal: To help participants become familiar with the Articles of Religion in the. III. Objectives: By the end of Session 2 participants will: A. Know the six topics addressed in the Articles of Religion. B. Have an opportunity to ask questions regarding the Articles of Religion. C. Realize the depth of content and careful formulation of the Articles of Religion. IV. Outline A. Welcome/Prayer B. Warm-Up suggestions: i. In Unison, read the Apostle s Creed from page 62-63 in Classic Catechism or reading #716 from the Affirmations of Faith section in The Hymnal for Worship & Celebration. ii. Listen to a song about the Apostle s Creed. ( Because We Believe, by Nancy Gordon and Jamie Harvill, 1996 Mother s Heart Music/Integrity s Hosanna! Music.) C. The Articles of Religion i. God ii. The Scriptures iii. Humankind iv. Salvation v. The Church vi. Last Things D. Wrap-up i. Tell participants what the next class will cover. ii. Distribute Our Calling to the Poor booklet. Participants should read this material prior to the next class. iii. Distribute The Female Pastor: Is There Room for She in Shepherd booklet. Participants should read this material prior to the next class. iv. Distribute Chapter 3,. Participants should read this material prior to Session 4. v. Close the class time in prayer.
Note to Instructor: This presentation includes hyperlinks for The Articles of Religion, chapter 1, in the. These hyperlinks allow you to navigate directly to specific paragraphs of the Articles of Religion. For example, if you are on the Main page that lists the Articles of Religion and you want to specifically refer to 101 The Holy Trinity you can go to that paragraph by choosing the God hyperlink, then choose 101 The Holy Trinity. You can then jump back to your main discussion after you have viewed the text of the. Familiarizing yourself with how to navigate the hyperlinks will enhance the classroom experience. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 2
Slide 1 Free Methodist Church Membership Class Session 2 Scripture quotations are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. NIV Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House. All rights reserved. 2008 Light and Life Communications, Indianapolis, Indiana. Printed in the U.S.A. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 3
Slide 2 Word Association Doctrine Heresy Orthodox Ask: How do you feel when you see these words? Not for me. Things that religious leaders think about. I don t even know what these words mean! This stuff isn t relevant to my everyday life. It s time for me to leave. Doctrine means how we think about something. Doctrine is how we see life. Doctrine is the set of rules for how we view life. Orthodox means the standard way or correct way of thinking about things. Heresy is the opposite of orthodoxy, meaning an incorrect way of thinking. Whether you use these terms or not, we use the ideas of these terms in everyday life. How we see our world affects how we live and respond to others. Let s look at a few examples of heresy in our culture. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 4
Slide 3 Heresy in Modern Culture The Bible is not the final authority. Everyone will eventually go to Heaven. There is more than one way to God. I don t need the church it s just an organization. Ask participants to each read one of the statements on the slide. Examples of wrong thinking in our modern culture: The Bible is a good book but not the final authority on all things. Everyone will eventually go to Heaven. There is more than one way to God. I don t need the church it s just an organization. I can follow God on my own. Let s look at a few examples of how our worldview, our doctrine, affects what we believe about Heaven. In this next video clip try to pick up on statements that sound good but are actually not the full truth. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 5
Slide 4 People s thoughts on Easter, the cross and Heaven Video Used by Permission. Copyright 2008 Bluefish TV Watch the video: What Comes to Your Mind When You Think of the Cross? (1 minute: 50 seconds) Used by permission. Copyright 2008 Bluefish TV. Stop the video by pressing the ENTER or DOWN key. To move to the next slide, press the ENTER or DOWN key again. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 6
Slide 5 How do the people in the video say you get to Heaven? I don t know. Do whatever you believe is right. There s not just one way to get there. Be a good person. Believe. Ask: How do the people in the video say you get to Heaven? I don t know. Do whatever you believe is right. There s not just one way to get there. Be a good person. All you have to do is believe. Ask: Did you notice any statements that were wrong or not completely true? Everybody goes to Heaven. For me personally, I believe you have to ask Christ into your heart. [My truth may not be your truth.] People have different opinions about how you get to Heaven. You don t necessarily have to be saved... Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 7
Slide 6 The Articles of Religion Help us understand what the church believes about basic Christian doctrine. Be sure to read the Articles of Religion. During the membership ritual, you will be asked to affirm your acceptance of these core doctrinal beliefs. Understanding the Articles of Religion and what the church believes about basic Christian doctrine will help us recognize wrong doctrine and guard us against being lead astray. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 8
Slide 7 The Articles of Religion The doctrines of the Free Methodist Church are based upon the Holy Scriptures and are derived from their total biblical context. Articles of Religion Scriptural References 131 The doctrines of the Free Methodist Church are based upon the Holy Scriptures and are derived from their total biblical context. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 9
Slide 8 The Articles of Religion 1. God 2. The Scriptures 3. Humankind 4. Salvation 5. The Church 6. Last Things The Articles of Religion are creed statements adapted from the original Articles of Religion in the Methodist Church which were taken from the Anglican Church in England in the 1800s. The Articles of Religion were written to counteract heresy or wrong thinking. Ask: Why do you think it s important to have Articles of Religion why should we know about doctrine? The Apostle Paul wrote extensively to the New Testament Christians on wrong teachings that were creeping into the church. One of the big subjects addressed in the early church was the wrong teaching that Gentile believers were required to be circumcised. Each generation struggles with its own wrong thinking about Biblical truth. The Articles of Religion in the Free Methodist Church are divided into six subjects. NOTE: Using a white board or six large tablet writing sheets, make six headings across the top of the board the headings of each of the Articles of Religion: God The Scriptures Humankind Salvation The Church Last Things From the homework assignment of collecting untrue statements from media sources, ask the class to categorize their collected statements into the various headings representing the six Articles of Religion. Use these statements as a guide for discussing the Articles of Religion. Use the Scripture references as the authority for discussion. Ask: What subjects in the Articles of Religion did you find interesting, troubling or particularly important in our modern culture? Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 10
Slide 9 The Articles of Religion: God 101 The Holy Trinity 103 The Son His Incarnation 104 The Son His Resurrection and Exaltation 105 The Holy Spirit His Person 106 The Holy Spirit His Work in Salvation 107 The Holy Spirit His Relation to the Church Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 11
Slide 10 What Christians say about Jesus: Jesus was completely God and completely man. Jesus demonstrated His deity: He committed no sin, He was born of the Spirit not from flesh but from a virgin, He did signs and miracles, He was one with God the Father, He saved people from their sin. Jesus demonstrated His humanness: He was thirsty, He was troubled, He wept, He was deeply distressed, He was overwhelmed with sorrow, He asked for relief. Jesus was completely God and completely man. Ways that Jesus demonstrated His deity: He committed no sin (1 Peter 2:22), He was born of the Spirit not from flesh but from a virgin (Luke 1-2), He did signs and miracles (John 10:25), He was one with God the Father (John 10:30, John 14:7), and He saved people from their sin (John 3:16, Mark 2:7, Luke 5:21). Ways that Jesus demonstrated His humanness: As a man He was thirsty (John 19:28), He was troubled (John 11:33), He wept (John 11:35), He was deeply distressed (Mark 14:33), He was overwhelmed with sorrow (Mark 14:34), He asked for relief (Mark 14:36). Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 12
Slide 11 What other religions say about Jesus: Jehovah s s Witness Jesus is not God. Before he lived on earth, he was Michael, the archangel. Jehovah made the universe through him. On earth he was a man who lived a perfect life. After dying on a stake (not a cross), he was resurrected as a spirit; his body was destroyed. Jesus is not coming again; he returned invisibly in 1914 in spirit. Very soon, he and the angels will destroy all non-jehovah s Witnesses. Used by permission. Rose Publishing, Inc. 1996, 2000, 2004, 2005 RW Research, Inc. Torrance, CA Slide 12 What other religions say about Jesus: Mormonism (Latter-day Saints) Jesus is a separate god from the Father (Elohim). He was created as a spirit child by the Father and Mother in Heaven, and is the elder brother of all men and spirit beings. His body was created through sexual union between Elohim and Mary. Jesus was married. His death on the cross does not provide full atonement for all sin, but does provide everyone with resurrection. Used by permission. Rose Publishing, Inc. 1996, 2000, 2004, 2005 RW Research, Inc. Torrance, CA Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 13
Slide 13 What other religions say about Jesus: New Age Jesus is not the one true God. He is not a savior, but a spiritual model, and guru, and is now an ascended master. He was a New Ager who tapped into divine power in the same way that anyone can. Many believe he went east to India or Tibet and learned mystical truths. He did not rise physically, but rose into a higher spiritual realm. Used by permission. Rose Publishing, Inc. 1996, 2000, 2004, 2005 RW Research, Inc. Torrance, CA Slide 14 What other religions say about Jesus: Islam Jesus (Isa in Arabic) is one of the most respected of over 124,000 prophets sent by Allah. Jesus was sinless, born of a virgin, and a great miracle worker, but not the Son of God. His virgin birth is like Adam s creation. Jesus is not God, and God is not Jesus. He was not crucified. Jesus, not Muhammad, will return for a special role before the future judgment day, perhaps turning Christians to Islam. Used by permission. Rose Publishing, Inc. 1996, 2000, 2004, 2005 RW Research, Inc. Torrance, CA Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 14
Slide 15 What other religions say about Jesus: Hinduism Jesus Christ is a teacher, a guru, or an avatar (an incarnation of Vishnu). He is a son of God as are others. His death does not atone for sins and he did not rise from the dead. Used by permission. Rose Publishing, Inc. 1996, 2000, 2004, 2005 RW Research, Inc. Torrance, CA Slide 16 What other religions say about Jesus: Buddhism Jesus Christ is not part of the historic Buddhist worldview. Buddhists in the West today generally view Jesus as an enlightened teacher, while Buddhists in Asia believe Jesus is an avatar or a Bodhisattva (but not God). Used by permission. Rose Publishing, Inc. 1996, 2000, 2004, 2005 RW Research, Inc. Torrance, CA Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 15
Slide 17 The Articles of Religion: The Scriptures 108 Authority 109 Authority of the Old Testament 110 New Testament Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 16
Slide 18 Wrong thinking about the Bible Some believe that only some parts of the Bible are true. Some believe that every word in the Bible should be taken literally, as if God transcribed the exact words of the Bible to those who wrote it. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 17
Slide 19 Literal interpretation of Scripture among Evangelical Churches 29% 59% 7% 5% 59% [Bible] Word of God, literally true word for word 29% [Bible] Word of God, but not literally true word for word 7% [Bible] Book written by men, not the word of God 5% Don't know/refused, other Used by Permission. View the full U.S. Religious Landscape Survey at http://religions.pewforum.org. From the U.S. Religious Landscape Survey, Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, 2008, Pew Research Center. click for report From the U.S. Religious Landscape Survey Wording from survey question: Which comes closest to your view? The Bible is the word of God, OR the Bible is a book written by men and is not the word of God? [If the respondent believed the Bible is the word of God, then the surveyor asked:] And would you say that the Bible is to be taken literally, word for word, OR not everything in the Bible should be taken literally, word for word? Used by Permission. View the full U.S. Religious Landscape Survey at http://religions.pewforum.org. From the U.S. Religious Landscape Survey, Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, 2008, Pew Research Center. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 18
Slide 20 Free Methodists and the Bible The Bible is the full and complete Word of God. God, through the Holy Spirit, helped the writers along as they wrote the Scriptures. God s Word is the final authority over our lives. When applying the Bible to life, take into account how a particular passage of scripture relates to the rest of scripture; ask yourself if the text is consistent with the rest of what God says in other parts of the Bible or if there are special cultural and literary considerations to take into account. back to survey chart Ask: So which slice of the pie chart from slide 19 would Free Methodists fall into? (The 29 percent category: The Bible is the word of God but not literally true word for word.) Let s dig deeper. Free Methodists say the Bible gives unerring witness to Jesus Christ 108, Book of Discipline. In this statement the emphasis is on the word witness. This means that the witness is without error. For example, several witnesses may see the same car accident with each witness reporting a specific detail but in the end, both witnesses report the same message of who was at fault in the accident. This would be an example of unerring witness. Free Methodists do not say the actual words of the Bible are inerrant or without error. Saying the Bible is inerrant puts the focus on the written document being without error. While the writers wrote different details about the witness of Jesus, their message was unerring. Compare these two Scriptures from Matthew and Acts. So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself (Matthew 27:5). With the reward he got for his wickedness, Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong, his body burst open and all his intestines spilled out (Acts 1:18). Matthew the tax collector reports the bottom-line result that Judas hung himself. Luke, the physician (the writer of Acts), reports the details of Judas death. The words describing Judas death are different but the message is the same. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 19
Slide 21 The Articles of Religion: Humankind 111 Free Moral Persons 112 Law of Life and Love 113 Good Works Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 20
Slide 22 Calvinism vs. Arminianism In the 1500s, John Calvin developed a Christian theology outlined below with what is known as Calvin s TULIP. To counter Calvinism, Jacobus Arminius developed a counter theology known as Arminianism. The Free Methodist Church is Arminian in it s doctrine of salvation. Slide 23 Calvin s s T.U.L.I.P. Total Depravity: no capacity to respond to God except that we are elected, predestined. Unconditional Election: our election to be saved is based on God s sovereign decree. Limited Atonement: only the elect. Irresistible Grace: you must say yes because you are elected. Perseverance of the Saints: those who are truly among the elect will remain faithful to the end. Perseverance of the saints Baptists embrace this element of the T.U.L.I.P. Slide 24 Arminian response to Calvinism NOT Total Depravity but Simple Depravity: We can respond to God. We have a free will and an optimistic faith. NOT Unconditional Election but Unconditional Call: All can be saved. NOT Limited Atonement but Unlimited Atonement: Christ died for all the world and the individual. NOT Irresistible Grace but Resistible Grace: We have the free will to choose against God s grace. Not Perseverance of the Saints but Assurance and Security: as we continue to walk in the light. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 21
Slide 25 The Articles of Religion: Salvation 114 Christ s Sacrifice 115 New Life in Christ 116 Justification 117 Regeneration 118 Adoption 119 Entire Sanctification 120 Restoration Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 22
Slide 26 Views of one s s religion as the one true faith among Evangelical Churches 57% 36% My religion is the one, true faith leading to eternal life 3% 5% 57% Many religions can lead to eternal life 3% Neither/both equally 36% 5% Don't know/refused Used by Permission. View the full U.S. Religious Landscape Survey at http://religions.pewforum.org. From the U.S. Religious Landscape Survey, Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, 2008, Pew Research Center. click for report From the U.S. Religious Landscape Survey Wording from survey question: Tell whether the first statement or second statement comes closer to your own views even if neither is exactly right. My religion is the one, true faith leading to eternal life. OR Many religions can lead to eternal life. Used by Permission. View the full U.S. Religious Landscape Survey at http://religions.pewforum.org. From the U.S. Religious Landscape Survey, Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, 2008, Pew Research Center. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 23
Slide 27 What is Universalism? Universalism is a religious doctrine that believes everyone will eventually be saved that everyone will make it to Heaven. Our Articles of Religion help us stand against this heresy and ground us in Biblical teachings regarding salvation. See the paragraphs 114, 115, 126, 129 and 130. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 24
Slide 28 The Articles of Religion: The Church 121 The Church 122 The Language of Worship 123 The Holy Sacraments 124 Baptism 125 The Lord s Supper Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 25
Slide 29 The Articles of Religion: Last Things 126 The Kingdom of God 127 The Return of Christ 128 Resurrection 129 Judgment 130 Final Destiny Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 26
Slide 30 End of Session Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 27
Hyperlink Slides The following pages are hyperlink slides that can be referred to during the teaching time. They contain The Articles of Religion from chapter 1 of the. They are included here for your benefit in familiarizing yourself with this resource. It is not necessary to go through each of these slides; use them as appropriate for your setting. Some slides may be of more interest than others. Slide 31 What We Believe: God The Holy Trinity ( 101) There is but one living and true God, the maker and preserver of all things. And in the unity of this Godhead there are three persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. These three are one in eternity, deity and purpose; everlasting, of infinite power, wisdom and goodness. Articles of Religion - God 101 The Holy Trinity Genesis 1:1-2; Exodus 3:13-15; Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; John 1:1-3; 5:19-23; 8:58; 14:9-11; 15:26; 16:13-15; 2 Corinthians 13:14. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 28
Slide 32 What We Believe: God The Son His Incarnation ( 103) God was himself in Jesus Christ to reconcile people to God. Conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, He joined together the deity of God and the humanity of humankind. Jesus of Nazareth was God in flesh, truly God and truly human. 1/2 click for next Slide 33 What We Believe: God The Son His Incarnation ( 103) (cont.) He came to save us. For us the Son of God suffered, was crucified, dead and buried. He poured out His life as a blameless sacrifice for our sin and transgressions. We gratefully acknowledge that He is our Savior, the one perfect mediator between God and us. 2/2 Articles of Religion - God 103 The Son His Incarnation Matthew 1:21; 20:28; 26:27-28; Luke 1:35; 19:10; John 1:1, 10, 14; 2 Corinthians 5:18-19; Philippians 2:5-8; Hebrews 2:17; 9:14-15. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 29
Slide 34 What We Believe: God The Son His Resurrection and Exaltation ( 104) Jesus Christ is risen victorious from the dead. His resurrected body became more glorious, not hindered by ordinary human limitations. Thus He ascended into heaven. There He sits as our exalted Lord at the right hand of God the Father, where He intercedes for us until all His enemies shall be brought into complete subjection. 1/2 click for next Slide 35 What We Believe: God The Son His Resurrection and Exaltation ( 104) (cont.) He will return to judge all people. Every knee will bow and every tongue confess Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 2/2 Articles of Religion - God 104 The Son His Resurrection and Exaltation Matthew 25:31-32; Luke 24:1-7; 24:39; John 20:19; Acts 1:9-11; 2:24; Romans 8:33-34; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Philippians 2:9-11; Hebrews 1:1-4. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 30
Slide 36 What We Believe: God The Holy Spirit His Person ( 105) The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. Proceeding from the Father and the Son, He is one with them, the eternal Godhead, equal in deity, majesty and power. 1/2 click for next Slide 37 What We Believe: God The Holy Spirit His Person ( 105) (cont.) He is God effective in Creation, in life and in the church. The Incarnation and ministry of Jesus Christ were accomplished by the Holy Spirit. He continues to reveal, interpret and glorify the Son. 2/2 click for next Articles of Religion - God 105 The Holy Spirit His Person Matthew 28:19; John 4:24; 14:16-17, 26; 15:26; 16:13-15. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 31
Slide 38 What We Believe: God The Holy Spirit His Work in Salvation ( 106) The Holy Spirit is the administrator of the salvation planned by the Father and provided by the Son s death, resurrection and ascension. He is the effective agent in our conviction, regeneration, sanctification and glorification. He is our Lord s ever-present self, indwelling, assuring and enabling the believer. Articles of Religion - God 106 The Holy Spirit His Work in Salvation John 16:7-8; Acts 15:8-9; Romans 8:9, 14-16; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18; Galatians 4:6. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 32
Slide 39 What We Believe: God The Holy Spirit His Relation to the Church ( 107) The Holy Spirit is poured out upon the church by the Father and the Son. He is the church s life and witnessing power. 1/2 click for next Slide 40 What We Believe: God The Holy Spirit His Relation to the Church ( 107) (cont.) He bestows the love of God and makes real the lordship of Jesus Christ in the believer so that both His gifts of words and service may achieve the common good and build and increase the church. In relation to the world He is the Spirit of truth, and His instrument is the Word of God. 2/2 Articles of Religion - God 107 The Holy Spirit His Relation to the Church Acts 5:3-4; Romans 8:14; 1 Corinthians 12:4-7; 2 Peter 1:21. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 33
Slide 41 What We Believe: The Scriptures Slide 42 Authority ( 108) The Bible is God s written Word, uniquely inspired by the Holy Spirit. It bears unerring witness to Jesus Christ, the living Word. As attested by the early church and subsequent councils, it is the trustworthy record of God s revelation, completely truthful in all it affirms. It has been faithfully preserved and proves itself true in human experience. 1/3 click for next What We Believe: The Scriptures Authority ( 108) (cont.) The Scriptures have come to us through human authors who wrote, as God moved them, in the languages and literary forms of their times. God continues, by the illumination of the Holy Spirit, to speak through this Word to each generation and culture. Slide 43 2/3 click for next What We Believe: The Scriptures Articles of Religion The Scriptures Authority ( 108) (cont.) The Bible has authority over all human life. It teaches the truth about God, His creation, His people, His one and only Son and the destiny of humankind. It also teaches the way of salvation and the life of faith. Whatever is not found in the Bible nor can be proved by it is not to be required as an article of belief or as necessary to salvation. 3/3 108 Authority Deuteronomy 4:2; 28:9; Psalm 19:7-11; John 14:26; 17:17; Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Hebrews 4:12; James 1:21. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 34
Slide 44 What We Believe: The Scriptures Authority of the Old Testament ( 109) The Old Testament is not contrary to the New. Both Testaments bear witness to God s salvation in Christ; both speak of God s will for His people. The ancient laws for ceremonies and rites, and the civil precepts for the nation Israel are not necessarily binding on Christians today. Slide 45 1/3 click for next What We Believe: The Scriptures Authority of the Old Testament ( 109) (cont.) But, on the example of Jesus we are obligated to obey the moral commandments of the Old Testament. Slide 46 2/3 click for next What We Believe: The Scriptures Authority of the Old Testament ( 109) (cont.) The books of the Old Testament are: Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth 1 & 2 Samuel 1 & 2 Kings 1 & 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes The Song of Solomon Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi 3/3 Articles of Religion The Scriptures 109 Authority of the Old Testament Matthew 5:17-18; Luke 10:25-28; John 5:39, 46-47; Acts 10:43; Galatians 5:3-4; 1 Peter 1:10-12. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 35
Slide 47 What We Believe: The Scriptures New Testament ( 110) The New Testament fulfills and interprets the Old Testament. It is the record of the revelation of God in Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. It is God s final word regarding humankind, sin, salvation, the world and its destiny. 1/2 click for next Slide 48 What We Believe: The Scriptures Authority of the New Testament ( 110) (cont.) The books of the New Testament are: Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans 1 & 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1 & 2 Thessalonians 1 & 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James 1 & 2 Peter 1, 2 & 3 John Jude Revelation 2/2 Articles of Religion The Scriptures 110 New Testament Matthew 24:35; Mark 8:38; John 14:24; Hebrews 2:1-4; 2 Peter 1:16-21; 1 John 2:2-6; Revelation 21:5; 22:19. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 36
Slide 49 What We Believe: Humankind Free Moral Persons ( 111) God created human beings in His own image, innocent, morally free and responsible to choose between good and evil, right and wrong. By the sin of Adam, humans as the offspring of Adam are corrupted in their very nature so that from birth they are inclined to sin. 1/2 click for next Slide 50 What We Believe: Humankind Free Moral Persons ( 111) (cont.) They are unable by their own strength and work to restore themselves in right relationship with God and to merit eternal salvation. God, the Omnipotent, provides all the resources of the Trinity to make it possible for humans to respond to His grace through faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. By God s grace and help people are enabled to do good works with a free will. 2/2 Articles of Religion Humankind 111 Free Moral Persons Genesis 1:27; Psalm 51:5; 130:3; Romans 5:17-19; Ephesians 2:8-10. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 37
Slide 51 What We Believe: Humankind Law of Life and Love ( 112) God s law for all human life, personal and social, is expressed in two divine commands: Love the Lord God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself. These commands reveal what is best for persons in their relationship with God, others and society. They set forth the principles of human duty in both individual and social action. They recognize God as the only Sovereign. 1/2 click for next Slide 52 What We Believe: Humankind Law of Life and Love ( 112) (cont.) All people as created by Him and in His image have the same inherent rights regardless of gender, race or color. All should therefore give God absolute obedience in their individual, social and political acts. They should strive to secure to everyone respect for their person, their rights and their greatest happiness in the possession and exercise of the right within the moral law. 2/2 Articles of Religion Humankind 112 Law of Life and Love Matthew 23:35-40; John 15:17; Galatians 3:28; 1 John 4:19-21. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 38
Slide 53 What We Believe: Humankind Good Works ( 113) Good works are the fruit of faith in Jesus Christ, but works cannot save us from our sins nor from God s judgment. As expressions of Christian faith and love, our good works performed with reverence and humility are both acceptable and pleasing to God. However, good works do not earn God s grace. Articles of Religion Humankind 113 Good Works Matthew 5:16; 7:16-20; Romans 3:27-28; Ephesians 2:10; 2 Timothy 1:8-9; Titus 3:5. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 39
Slide 54 What We Believe: Salvation Christ s Sacrifice ( 114) Christ offered once and for all the one perfect sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. No other satisfaction for sin is necessary; none other can atone. Articles of Religion Salvation 114 Christ s Sacrifice Luke 24:46-48; John 3:16; Acts 4:12; Romans 5:8-11; Galatians 2:16; 3:2-3; Ephesians 1:7-8; 2:13; Hebrews 9:11-14, 25-26; 10:8-14. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 40
Slide 55 What We Believe: Salvation New Life in Christ ( 115) A new life and a right relationship with God are made possible through the redemptive acts of God in Jesus Christ. God, by His Spirit, acts to impart new life and put people into a relationship with Himself as they repent and their faith responds to His grace. Justification, regeneration and adoption speak significantly to entrance into and continuance in the new life. Articles of Religion Salvation 115 New Life in Christ John 1:12-13; 3:3-8; Acts 13:38-39; Romans 8:15-17; Ephesians 2:8-9; Colossians 3:9-10. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 41
Slide 56 What We Believe: Salvation Justification ( 116) Justification is a legal term that emphasizes that by a new relationship in Jesus Christ people are in fact accounted righteous, being freed from both the guilt and the penalty of their sins. Articles of Religion Salvation 116 Justification Psalm 32:1-2; Acts 10:43; Romans 3:21-26, 28; 4:2-5; 5:8-9; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Philippians 3:9. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 42
Slide 57 What We Believe: Salvation Regeneration ( 117) Regeneration is a biological term which illustrates that by a new relationship in Christ, one does in fact have a new life and a new spiritual nature capable of faith, love and obedience to Christ Jesus as Lord. The believer is born again and is a new creation. The old life is past; a new life is begun. Articles of Religion Salvation 117 Regeneration Ezekiel 36:26-27; John 5:24; Romans 6:4; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:9-10; Titus 3:4-5; 1 Peter 1:23. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 43
Slide 58 What We Believe: Salvation Adoption ( 118) Adoption is a filial term full of warmth, love, and acceptance. It denotes that by a new relationship in Christ believers have become His wanted children freed from the mastery of both sin and Satan. Believers have the witness of the Spirit that they are children of God. Articles of Religion Salvation 118 Adoption Romans 8:15-17; Galatians 4:4-7; Ephesians 1:5-6; 1 John 3:1-3. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 44
Slide 59 What We Believe: Salvation Entire Sanctification ( 119) Entire sanctification is that work of the Holy Spirit, subsequent to regeneration, by which the fully consecrated believers, upon exercise of faith in the atoning blood of Christ, are cleansed in that moment from all inward sin and empowered for service. 1/2 click for next Slide 60 What We Believe: Salvation Entire Sanctification ( 119) (cont.) The resulting relationship is attested by the witness of the Holy Spirit and is maintained by faith and obedience. Entire sanctification enables believers to love God with all their hearts, souls, strength, and minds, and their neighbor as themselves, and it prepares them for greater growth in grace. 2/2 Articles of Religion Salvation 119 Entire Sanctification Leviticus 20:7-8; John 14:16-17; 17:19; Acts 1:8; 2:4; 15:8-9; Romans 5:3-5; 8:12-17; 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 6:11; 12:4-11; Galatians 5:22-25; Ephesians 4:22-24; 1 Thessalonians 4:7; 5:23-24; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; Hebrews 10:14. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 45
Slide 61 What We Believe: Salvation Slide 62 Restoration ( 120) Christians may be sustained in a growing relationship with Jesus as Savior and Lord. However, they may grieve the Holy Spirit in the relationships of life without returning to the dominion of sin. When they do, they must humbly accept the correction of the Holy Spirit, trust in the advocacy of Jesus, and mend their relationships. 1/3 click for next What We Believe: Salvation Restoration ( 120) (cont.) Christians can sin willfully and sever their relationship with Christ. Even so by repentance before God, forgiveness is granted and the relationship with Christ restored, for not every sin is the sin against the Holy Spirit and unpardonable. God s grace is sufficient for those who truly repent and, by His enabling, amend their lives. Slide 63 2/3 click for next What We Believe: Salvation Restoration ( 120) (cont.) However, forgiveness does not give believers liberty to sin and escape the consequences of sinning. God has given responsibility and power to the church to restore penitent believers through loving reproof, counsel and acceptance. 3/3 Articles of Religion Salvation 120 Restoration Matthew 12:31-32; 18:21-22; Romans 6:1-2; Galatians 6:1; 1 John 1:9; 2:1-2; 5:16-17; Revelation 2:5; 3:19-20. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 46
Slide 64 What We Believe: The Church ( 121)( The church is created by God. It is the people of God. Christ Jesus is its Lord and Head. The Holy Spirit is its life and power. It is both divine and human, heavenly and earthly, ideal and imperfect. It is an organism, not an unchanging institution. It exists to fulfill the purposes of God in Christ. It redemptively ministers to persons. Christ loved the church and gave Himself for it that it should be holy and without blemish. 1/2 click for next Slide 65 What We Believe: The Church ( 121)( The church is a fellowship of the redeemed and the redeeming, preaching the Word of God and administering the sacraments according to Christ s instruction. The Free Methodist Church purposes to be representative of what the church of Jesus Christ should be on earth. It therefore requires specific commitment regarding the faith and life of its members. In its requirements it seeks to honor Christ and obey the written Word of God. 2/2 Articles of Religion The Church 121 The Church Matthew 16:15-18; 18:17; Acts 2:41-47; 9:31; 12:5; 14:23-26; 15:22; 20:28; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 11:23; 12:28; 16:1; Ephesians 1:22-23; 2:19-22; 3:9-10; 5:22-23; Colossians 1:18; 1 Timothy 3:14-15. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 47
Slide 66 What We Believe: The Church The Language of Worship ( 122) According to the Word of God and the custom of the early church, public worship and prayer and the administration of the sacraments should be in a language understood by the people. 1/2 click for next Slide 67 What We Believe: The Church The Language of Worship ( 122) (cont.) The Reformation applied this principle to provide for the use of the common language of the people. It is likewise clear that the Apostle Paul places the strongest emphasis upon rational and intelligible utterance in worship. We cannot endorse practices which plainly violate these scriptural principles. 2/2 Articles of Religion The Church 122 The Language of Worship Nehemiah 8:5, 6, 8; Matthew 6:7; 1 Corinthians 14:6-9, 23-25. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 48
Slide 68 What We Believe: The Church The Holy Sacraments ( 123) Water baptism and the Lord s Supper are the sacraments of the church commanded by Christ. They are means of grace through faith, tokens of our profession of Christian faith, and signs of God s gracious ministry toward us. By them, He works within us to quicken, strengthen and confirm our faith. Articles of Religion The Church 123 The Holy Sacraments Matthew 26:26-29; 28:19; Acts 22:16; Romans 4:11; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17; 11:23-26; Galatians 3:27. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 49
Slide 69 What We Believe: The Church Baptism ( 124) Water baptism is a sacrament of the church, commanded by our Lord, signifying acceptance of the benefits of the atonement of Jesus Christ to be administered to believers as declaration of their faith in Jesus Christ as Savior. 1/2 click for next Slide 70 What We Believe: The Church Baptism ( 124) (cont.) Baptism is a symbol of the new covenant of grace as circumcision was the symbol of the old covenant; and, since infants are recognized as being included in the atonement, they may be baptized upon the request of parents or guardians who shall give assurance for them of necessary Christian training. They shall be required to affirm the vow for themselves before being accepted into church membership. 2/2 Articles of Religion The Church 124 Baptism Acts 2:38, 41; 8:12-17; 9:18; 16:33; 18:8; 19:5; John 3:5; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Galatians 3:27-29; Colossians 2:11-12; Titus 3:5. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 50
Slide 71 What We Believe: The Church The Lord s Supper ( 125) The Lord s Supper is a sacrament of our redemption by Christ s death. To those who rightly, worthily and with faith receive it, the bread which we break is a partaking of the body of Christ; and likewise the cup of blessing is a partaking of the blood of Christ. The supper is also a sign of the love and unity that Christians have among themselves. 1/2 click for next Slide 72 What We Believe: The Church The Lord s Supper ( 125) (cont.) Christ, according to His promise, is really present in the sacrament. But His body is given, taken and eaten only after a heavenly and spiritual manner. No change is effected in the element; the bread and wine are not literally the body and blood of Christ. Nor is the body and blood of Christ literally present with the elements. The elements are never to be considered objects of worship. The body of Christ is received and eaten in faith. 2/2 Articles of Religion The Church 125 The Lord s Supper Mark 14:22-24; John 6:53-58; Acts 2:46; 1 Corinthians 5:7-8; 10:16; 11:20, 23-29. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 51
Slide 73 What We Believe: Last Things The Kingdom of God ( 126) The kingdom of God is a prominent Bible theme providing Christians with both their tasks and hope. Jesus announced its presence. The kingdom is realized now as God s reign is established in the hearts and lives of believers. Slide 74 1/3 click for next What We Believe: Last Things The Kingdom of God ( 126) (cont.) The church, by its prayers, example and proclamation of the gospel, is the appointed and appropriate instrument of God in building His kingdom. Slide 75 2/3 click for next What We Believe: Last Things The Kingdom of God ( 126) (cont.) But the kingdom is also future and is related to the return of Christ when judgment will fall upon the present order. The enemies of Christ will be subdued; the reign of God will be established; a total cosmic renewal which is both material and moral shall occur; and the hope of the redeemed will be fully realized. Articles of Religion Last Things 3/3 126 The Kingdom of God Matthew 6:10, 19-20; 24:14; Acts 1:8; Romans 8:19-23; 1 Corinthians 15:20-25; Philippians 2:9-10; 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-12; 2 Peter 3:3-10; Revelation 14:6; 21:3-8; 22:1-5, 17. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 52
Slide 76 What We Believe: Last Things The Return of Christ ( 127) The return of Christ is certain and may occur at any moment, although it is not given us to know the hour. At His return He will fulfill all prophecies concerning His final triumph over all evil. The believer s response is joyous expectation, watchfulness, readiness and diligence. Articles of Religion Last Things 127 The Return of Christ Matthew 24:1-51; 26:64; Mark 13:26-27; Luke 17:26-37; John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Titus 2:11-14; Hebrews 9:27-28; Revelation 1:7; 19:11-16; 22:6-7, 12, 20. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 53
Slide 77 What We Believe: Last Things Resurrection ( 128) There will be a bodily resurrection from the dead of both the just and the unjust, they that have done good unto the resurrection of life, they that have done evil unto the resurrection of damnation. The resurrected body will be a spiritual body, but the person will be whole and identifiable. The Resurrection of Christ is the guarantee of resurrection unto life to those who are in Him. Articles of Religion Last Things 128 Resurrection John 5:28-29; 1 Corinthians 15:20, 51-57; 2 Corinthians 4:13-14. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 54
Slide 78 What We Believe: Last Things Judgment ( 129) God has appointed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness in accordance with the gospel and our deeds in this life. Articles of Religion Last Things 129 Judgment Matthew 25:31-46; Luke 11:31-32; Acts 10:42; 17:31; Romans 2:15-16; 14:10-11; 2 Corinthians 5:6-10; Hebrews 9:27-28; 10:26-31; 2 Peter 3:7. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 55
Slide 79 What We Believe: Last Things Final Destiny ( 130) Our eternal destiny is determined by God s grace and our response, not by arbitrary decrees of God. For those who trust Him and obediently follow Jesus as Savior and Lord, there is a heaven of eternal glory and the blessedness of Christ s presence. But for the finally impenitent there is a hell of eternal suffering and of separation from God. Articles of Religion Last Things 130 Final Destiny Mark 9:42-48; John 14:3; Hebrews 2:1-3; Revelation 20:11-15; 21:22-27. Free Methodist Membership Training: Session 2 56