In Philippians 3, Paul is giving us his spiritual biography, his past (Philippians 3:1-11), his present (Philippians 3:12-16), and his future (Philippians 3:17-21). We have already met Paul "the accountant" who discovered new values when he met Jesus Christ. In this section we meet Paul "the athlete" with his spiritual vigor, pressing toward the finish line in the Christian race. In the final section we will see Paul "the alien," having his citizenship in heaven and looking for the coming of Jesus Christ. In each of these experiences, Paul is exercising the spiritual mind; he is looking at things on earth from God's point of view. As a result, he is not upset by things behind him, around him, or before him—things do not rob him of his joy!
In his letters, Paul uses many illustrations from the world to communicate truth about the Christian life. Four are prominent: the military ("Put on the whole armor of God"), architecture ("You are the temple of God"), agriculture ("Whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap"), and athletics. In this paragraph, it is Paul the athlete. The verb "reaching forth" in Philippians 3:13 literally means "stretching as in a race.
The five D’s of Philippians Chapter 3:
· Dissatisfaction
· Devotion
· Direction
· Determination
· Discipline
1) Dissatisfaction: (Philippians 3:12-13a) "Not as though I had already attained!" This is the statement of a great Christian who never permitted himself to be satisfied with his spiritual attainments. Obviously, Paul was satisfied with Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:10), but he was not satisfied with his Christian life. A sanctified dissatisfaction is the first essential to progress in the Christian race.
2) Devotion: (Philippians 3:13b) The believer must devote himself to "running the Christian race." No athlete succeeds by doing everything; he succeeds by specializing. There are those few athletes who seem proficient in many sports, but they are the exception. The winners are those who concentrate, who keep their eyes on the goal and let nothing distract them. They are devoted entirely to their calling.
3) Direction: (Philippians 3:13c) Some Christians are controlled by their past, however, the Christian running the race looks toward the future. Imagine what would happen on the race track if the runners started looking behind them! The runners would be bound to have a collision with one another and suffer serious injury.
We are accustomed to saying "past, present, future," but we should view time as flowing from the future into the present and then into the past. At least, the believer should be future-oriented, "forgetting those things which are behind." Please keep in mind that in Bible terminology, "to forget" does not mean "to fail to remember." Apart from senility, hypnosis, or a brain malfunction, no mature person can forget what has happened in the past. We may wish that we could erase certain bad memories, but we cannot. The admonition “to forget" in the text means to, “no longer be influenced by or affected by."
When God promises, "And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more" (Hebrews 10:17), He is not suggesting that He will conveniently have a bad memory! This is impossible with God. What God is saying is, "I will no longer hold their sins against them. Their sins can no longer affect their standing with me or influence my attitude toward them."
So, "forgetting those things which are behind" does not suggest an impossible feat of mental and psychological gymnastics by which we try to erase the sins and mistakes of the past. It simply means that we break the power of the past by living for the future. We cannot change the past, but we can change the meaning of the past. There were things in Paul's past that could have been weights to hold him back (1 Timothy 1:12-17), but they became inspirations to speed him ahead. The events did not change, but his understanding of them changed.
A good example of this principle is Joseph (Genesis 45:1-15). When he met his brothers the second time and revealed himself to them, he held no grudge against them. To be sure, they had mistreated him, but he saw the past from God's point of view. As a result he was unable to hold anything against his brothers. Joseph knew that God had a plan for his life—a race for him to run—and in fulfilling that plan and looking ahead, he broke the power of the past.
Too many Christians are shackled by regrets of the past. They are trying to run the race by looking backward! No wonder they stumble and fall and get in the way of other Christians! Some Christian runners are being distracted by the successes of the past, not the failures; and this is just as bad. "The things which are behind" must be set aside and "the things which are before" must take their place. It is possible to have dissatisfaction, devotion, and direction, and still lose the race and the reward.
4) Determination: (Philippians 3:14) "I press!" This same verb is translated "I follow after" in Philippians 3:12, and it carries the idea of intense endeavor.
5) Discipline: (Philippians 3:15-16) It is not enough to run hard and win the race; the runner must also obey the rules. Any infringement of the rules disqualified the athlete. He did not lose his citizenship (though he disgraced it), but he did lose his privilege to participate and win a prize. In Philippians 3:15-16, Paul emphasizes the importance of the Christian remembering the "spiritual rules" laid down in the Word.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Victory Over Defeat!
God has given the believer victory over defeat!
I Corinthians 15:57
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory (making us conquerors of defeat) through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Thank You Lord that defeat is a conquered opponent!
And, in Christ Jesus we are victorious!
We are not moved by overwhelming feelings or past failures because God is bigger and more powerful than anything and everything we have ever been through.
We walk in the promises God has made to us, and our minds are transformed by His Word.
We command all strongholds (in the mind) to bow to the authority of Jesus Christ! No matter what our situation appears to be , we choose to believe God’s Word and overcome every lie of the devil.
We are not defeated! Our hope (confident expectation) is set in Jesus and by faith we walk in victory!
I Corinthians 15:57
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory (making us conquerors of defeat) through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Thank You Lord that defeat is a conquered opponent!
And, in Christ Jesus we are victorious!
We are not moved by overwhelming feelings or past failures because God is bigger and more powerful than anything and everything we have ever been through.
We walk in the promises God has made to us, and our minds are transformed by His Word.
We command all strongholds (in the mind) to bow to the authority of Jesus Christ! No matter what our situation appears to be , we choose to believe God’s Word and overcome every lie of the devil.
We are not defeated! Our hope (confident expectation) is set in Jesus and by faith we walk in victory!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit to the Church and the Believer
1) Convicts the unsaved person of sin, righteousness, and judgment. (John 16:7-11)
2) Gives aid in birthing the church. (John 20:21-22; Acts 1:12-15; 2:1-4, 38-41)
3) Desires to inspire the worship of the church. (Phil. 3:3)
4) Desires to direct its missionary work. (Acts 8:29; 13:2-4; 16:6-7, 10)
5) Desires to aid us in singing and thanksgiving. (Eph. 18:18-20)
6) Appoints the leaders. (Acts 20:28)
7) Anoints the leaders with power. (1 Cor. 2:4)
8) Warns its members. (1 Tim. 4:1)
9) Desires to determine its decisions. (Acts 15:28)
10) Desires to direct its evangelistic attempts. (Acts 13:1-4)
11) Alone is able to condone or condemn its ministry. (Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 29)
12) Regenerates the believing sinner. (John 3:3-7; Titus 3:5; 1 Pet. 1:23)
13) Baptizes the believer. (1 Cor. 12:13; Gal. 3:27; Eph. 4:4-5; Col. 2:12)
14) Indwells the believer. (John 14:16; Rom. 8:8, 9; 1 Cor. 2:12; 3:16; 1 John 3:24)
15) Seals the believer. (2 Cor. 1:22; 2 Cor. 5:5; Eph. 1:13-14; 4:30)
16) Fills the believer. (Acts 2:4)
17) Conforms us to the image of Christ. (2 Cor. 3:18)
18) Strengthens our new nature. (Eph. 3:16)
19) Reveals biblical truth to us. (1 Cor. 2:10)
20) Assures us concerning salvation and service. (Rom. 8:16; 1 John 3:24)
21) Gives us liberty. (Rom. 8:2)
22) Fills our mouths with appropriate things. (Mark 13:11)
23) Prays for us and helps us to pray. (Rom. 8:26-27)
24) Guides us. (John 16:13; Rom. 8:14)
25) Teaches us. (1 John 2:27)
26) Empowers us for witnessing. (Acts 1:8)
27) Imparts the love of Christ to us and through us. (Rom. 5:5)
28) Restores life to our mortal bodies. (Rom. 8:11)
2) Gives aid in birthing the church. (John 20:21-22; Acts 1:12-15; 2:1-4, 38-41)
3) Desires to inspire the worship of the church. (Phil. 3:3)
4) Desires to direct its missionary work. (Acts 8:29; 13:2-4; 16:6-7, 10)
5) Desires to aid us in singing and thanksgiving. (Eph. 18:18-20)
6) Appoints the leaders. (Acts 20:28)
7) Anoints the leaders with power. (1 Cor. 2:4)
8) Warns its members. (1 Tim. 4:1)
9) Desires to determine its decisions. (Acts 15:28)
10) Desires to direct its evangelistic attempts. (Acts 13:1-4)
11) Alone is able to condone or condemn its ministry. (Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 29)
12) Regenerates the believing sinner. (John 3:3-7; Titus 3:5; 1 Pet. 1:23)
13) Baptizes the believer. (1 Cor. 12:13; Gal. 3:27; Eph. 4:4-5; Col. 2:12)
14) Indwells the believer. (John 14:16; Rom. 8:8, 9; 1 Cor. 2:12; 3:16; 1 John 3:24)
15) Seals the believer. (2 Cor. 1:22; 2 Cor. 5:5; Eph. 1:13-14; 4:30)
16) Fills the believer. (Acts 2:4)
17) Conforms us to the image of Christ. (2 Cor. 3:18)
18) Strengthens our new nature. (Eph. 3:16)
19) Reveals biblical truth to us. (1 Cor. 2:10)
20) Assures us concerning salvation and service. (Rom. 8:16; 1 John 3:24)
21) Gives us liberty. (Rom. 8:2)
22) Fills our mouths with appropriate things. (Mark 13:11)
23) Prays for us and helps us to pray. (Rom. 8:26-27)
24) Guides us. (John 16:13; Rom. 8:14)
25) Teaches us. (1 John 2:27)
26) Empowers us for witnessing. (Acts 1:8)
27) Imparts the love of Christ to us and through us. (Rom. 5:5)
28) Restores life to our mortal bodies. (Rom. 8:11)
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Soul Winning 101: Lesson 2
"YOU ARE DESIGNED TO WIN SOULS"
INTRODUCTION
The average church member puts on his or her "happy face" when they go to church. Many have the same testimony as the clown who said, "I'm laughing on the outside, but crying on the inside." John 10:10, states that Jesus came that you may have ABUNDANT life. He didn't come that you may just have eternal life, but that you may have an abundant, victorious life. He designed you to win, to achieve, and to live victoriously.
EVERYTHING WAS CREATED FOR A DEFINITE PURPOSE:
· A logical deduction: we can understand this truth by local deduction. God had a purpose for everything He did and made.
Genesis 1:24: All living creatures reproduce after its own kind:
· The fruit of an apple tree is apples
· The fruit of dogs is puppies
· The natural product of marriage is children. A young man does not have to be a "Mr. Atlas" nor his wife a "Miss America" in order to have children
· The fruit of the righteous (Saints, saved) is winning souls
Romans 4:3-6: The Bible declares that a righteous person is one who has the imputed righteousness of Christ.
The "tree of life" is symbolic of eternal life. A normal function of a saved person is to win souls. The tree does not produce fruit for its own benefit but for the benefit of others. The fruit of the saved is to win others for Christ.
Proverbs 11:30: God's interpretation of "The fruit of the righteous..." has two phases:
1: The fruit, or substance, of the righteous (Saints, saved) is the tree of life (winning souls)
2: The second phase is God's interpretation of the first: "...he that winneth souls is wise." Therefore God interprets the first phase, "The fruit of the righteous..." by saying, "and he that winneth souls is wise."
GOD HAS PROMISED THAT YOU CAN WIN SOULS
John 15:16: You were chosen and ordained to go...
· "...and bring forth fruit..." (fruit of the saved is winning souls)
Psalm 126:6: God's divine method: "He that goeth forth and weeping, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, brining his sheaves (saved souls) with him."
· "shall": that's a definite promise to the one who goes (burdened with the Word to save souls) "doubtless come again with rejoicing (absolute promise from Almighty God)..."
· "He": is not a preacher. It is not someone who has the gift of gab. It is not someone who has a special calling. It can be anyone.
· "with rejoicing": there are four descriptive terms of the joy the soul-winner will have:
· Psalm 126:1: "...like them that dream[ed]."
· Psalm 126:2: "...our mouth filled with laughter..."
· Psalm 126:2: "...tongue with singing..."
· Psalm 126:3: "The Lord hath done great things for us..." denotes success
THIS VERSE PROMISES THE ABUNDANT LIFE (Psalm 126:6)
· It states that anyone who goes with a concern for souls (i.e., with a message from the Word of God)...
· ...will doubtless come again with abundant, victorious life like them that dreamed, mouth filled with laughter, tongue with singing, everyone noticing the blessing God upon their life. They acknowledge God's blessing, therefore they are glad (Psalm 126:3).
FIVE SIMPLE STEPS: You are not only designed to win but God gave the simple steps to bearing fruit which brings the abundant life. The steps are...
· Going - to the lost
· Weeping - concerned
· Sowing - the Message
· Having faith - (doubtless) a sure promise
· Rejoicing - because of souls won
GOD HAS CHOSEN THE WEAK THINGS...
· How are you feeling?
· Do you feel you "can't"?
· Do you feel like you are unable to win souls?
· Do you feel that you have "too big a fear problem"?
· Do you feel that you have "too much an inferiority complex to overcome"?
· Do you feel that maybe lack of education/knowledge exists?
· Do you feel that you are too self-conscious to win souls?
GOOD NEWS: 1 Corinthians 1:27: God chose little people, weak people, and people with inferiority complexes to do great things. He chose:
· A 17 year old boy, Joseph, to save his family, Israel
· A Jewish maiden, Esther, to deliver her whole country
· A hillbilly shepherd boy, David, to become Israel's greatest king
· An ignorant fisherman, Peter, to become the first pastor and chief apostle
· A little boy with a sack lunch, a man with a rod, a man with an ox-goard, a widow with two mites, YOU!!!
But you may say, "I feel so weak, so unworthy..." Good. That is a sure sign you can do it because God has chosen the weak things. Paul went with tears, with fear and trembling, and he commanded us to work out our salvation (what we're saved to do, that is, bear fruit--win souls) with fear and trembling. So, if you are scared, feel weak, feel foolish or self-conscious, you have all the qualifications to become a great soul-winner. (1 Corinthians 2:1-3; Acts 20:31; Philippians 2:12)
Philippians 2:12: "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation (i.e., as in a prison sentence--come to understand it) with fear and trembling (i.e., not literally--just take it seriously)."
YOU CAN BECOME A GREAT SOUL-WINNER
We are to walk by faith:
· Hebrews 10:38: "Walk by faith" means submit yourself (obey) your pastor to be trained (with fear and trembling as a soul-winner). The just (Saints, saved) are to walk by faith
· Philippians 4:13: You can do all things through Christ whom gives you strength. Paul said he could do all things through Christ who strengthened/helped him.
· Is God a respecter of persons (i.e., does he give preferential treatment to any one person over another)? No.
· God's grace can help you to do all things ... especially a natural thing which He designed you to do (i.e., walking to running to professional running)
· That "natural thing" is the Fruit of the Saved: soul-winning
· You are to grow in grace
2 Peter 3:18: Peter tells his disciples to "grow in grace, and in the knowledge..." meaning to continue us to their dying day because there is no impasse or end to knowing God
A five year old boy cannot do what his big brother of fifteen can do. But through the process of natural growth he may grow up and exceed his big brother in many ways.
You may not be able to witness and win souls now but you can grow into a mature, fruitful soul-winner
SUMMARY
Witnessing was designed by God for all of God's children. It was designed so all could learn to do it. Witnessing is one of the most simple, easy things for a person to do. Once one learns the simple steps in witnessing, it comes a natural way of life.
INTRODUCTION
The average church member puts on his or her "happy face" when they go to church. Many have the same testimony as the clown who said, "I'm laughing on the outside, but crying on the inside." John 10:10, states that Jesus came that you may have ABUNDANT life. He didn't come that you may just have eternal life, but that you may have an abundant, victorious life. He designed you to win, to achieve, and to live victoriously.
EVERYTHING WAS CREATED FOR A DEFINITE PURPOSE:
· A logical deduction: we can understand this truth by local deduction. God had a purpose for everything He did and made.
Genesis 1:24: All living creatures reproduce after its own kind:
· The fruit of an apple tree is apples
· The fruit of dogs is puppies
· The natural product of marriage is children. A young man does not have to be a "Mr. Atlas" nor his wife a "Miss America" in order to have children
· The fruit of the righteous (Saints, saved) is winning souls
Romans 4:3-6: The Bible declares that a righteous person is one who has the imputed righteousness of Christ.
The "tree of life" is symbolic of eternal life. A normal function of a saved person is to win souls. The tree does not produce fruit for its own benefit but for the benefit of others. The fruit of the saved is to win others for Christ.
Proverbs 11:30: God's interpretation of "The fruit of the righteous..." has two phases:
1: The fruit, or substance, of the righteous (Saints, saved) is the tree of life (winning souls)
2: The second phase is God's interpretation of the first: "...he that winneth souls is wise." Therefore God interprets the first phase, "The fruit of the righteous..." by saying, "and he that winneth souls is wise."
GOD HAS PROMISED THAT YOU CAN WIN SOULS
John 15:16: You were chosen and ordained to go...
· "...and bring forth fruit..." (fruit of the saved is winning souls)
Psalm 126:6: God's divine method: "He that goeth forth and weeping, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, brining his sheaves (saved souls) with him."
· "shall": that's a definite promise to the one who goes (burdened with the Word to save souls) "doubtless come again with rejoicing (absolute promise from Almighty God)..."
· "He": is not a preacher. It is not someone who has the gift of gab. It is not someone who has a special calling. It can be anyone.
· "with rejoicing": there are four descriptive terms of the joy the soul-winner will have:
· Psalm 126:1: "...like them that dream[ed]."
· Psalm 126:2: "...our mouth filled with laughter..."
· Psalm 126:2: "...tongue with singing..."
· Psalm 126:3: "The Lord hath done great things for us..." denotes success
THIS VERSE PROMISES THE ABUNDANT LIFE (Psalm 126:6)
· It states that anyone who goes with a concern for souls (i.e., with a message from the Word of God)...
· ...will doubtless come again with abundant, victorious life like them that dreamed, mouth filled with laughter, tongue with singing, everyone noticing the blessing God upon their life. They acknowledge God's blessing, therefore they are glad (Psalm 126:3).
FIVE SIMPLE STEPS: You are not only designed to win but God gave the simple steps to bearing fruit which brings the abundant life. The steps are...
· Going - to the lost
· Weeping - concerned
· Sowing - the Message
· Having faith - (doubtless) a sure promise
· Rejoicing - because of souls won
GOD HAS CHOSEN THE WEAK THINGS...
· How are you feeling?
· Do you feel you "can't"?
· Do you feel like you are unable to win souls?
· Do you feel that you have "too big a fear problem"?
· Do you feel that you have "too much an inferiority complex to overcome"?
· Do you feel that maybe lack of education/knowledge exists?
· Do you feel that you are too self-conscious to win souls?
GOOD NEWS: 1 Corinthians 1:27: God chose little people, weak people, and people with inferiority complexes to do great things. He chose:
· A 17 year old boy, Joseph, to save his family, Israel
· A Jewish maiden, Esther, to deliver her whole country
· A hillbilly shepherd boy, David, to become Israel's greatest king
· An ignorant fisherman, Peter, to become the first pastor and chief apostle
· A little boy with a sack lunch, a man with a rod, a man with an ox-goard, a widow with two mites, YOU!!!
But you may say, "I feel so weak, so unworthy..." Good. That is a sure sign you can do it because God has chosen the weak things. Paul went with tears, with fear and trembling, and he commanded us to work out our salvation (what we're saved to do, that is, bear fruit--win souls) with fear and trembling. So, if you are scared, feel weak, feel foolish or self-conscious, you have all the qualifications to become a great soul-winner. (1 Corinthians 2:1-3; Acts 20:31; Philippians 2:12)
Philippians 2:12: "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation (i.e., as in a prison sentence--come to understand it) with fear and trembling (i.e., not literally--just take it seriously)."
YOU CAN BECOME A GREAT SOUL-WINNER
We are to walk by faith:
· Hebrews 10:38: "Walk by faith" means submit yourself (obey) your pastor to be trained (with fear and trembling as a soul-winner). The just (Saints, saved) are to walk by faith
· Philippians 4:13: You can do all things through Christ whom gives you strength. Paul said he could do all things through Christ who strengthened/helped him.
· Is God a respecter of persons (i.e., does he give preferential treatment to any one person over another)? No.
· God's grace can help you to do all things ... especially a natural thing which He designed you to do (i.e., walking to running to professional running)
· That "natural thing" is the Fruit of the Saved: soul-winning
· You are to grow in grace
2 Peter 3:18: Peter tells his disciples to "grow in grace, and in the knowledge..." meaning to continue us to their dying day because there is no impasse or end to knowing God
A five year old boy cannot do what his big brother of fifteen can do. But through the process of natural growth he may grow up and exceed his big brother in many ways.
You may not be able to witness and win souls now but you can grow into a mature, fruitful soul-winner
SUMMARY
Witnessing was designed by God for all of God's children. It was designed so all could learn to do it. Witnessing is one of the most simple, easy things for a person to do. Once one learns the simple steps in witnessing, it comes a natural way of life.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Soul Winning 101: Lesson 1
"TEACH THEM TO OBSERVE" (Matthew 28:19-20)
INTRODUCTION:
Many quote verse 20, "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you..." The key of this verse is the word "observe"--to do, to practice ... all things commanded of us.
TO WHOM WAS JESUS SPEAKING? TO A LOCAL BODY OF BELIEVERS: His disciples
· The point: He was talking to believers (those saved)
· He did not limit himself to "just preachers."
· Settle this point in your mind: Jesus was not speaking “just to preachers” in these verses.
Acts 1:8: The church is: MADE UP OF BELIEVERS and believers are TO WIN SOULS.
JESUS: OUR GREAT EXAMPLE:
· Matthew 23:3: Jesus strongly denounced the Scribes and Pharisees as hypocrites because "...they say, and do not." He said they serve him with their mouth but their hearts are far from Him.
· Matthew 20:28: He said He "came not to be ministered unto, but to minister..."
· Acts 1:1: "Jesus began both to do and teach." The doing came before the teaching.
· Jesus said “but whosoever will be great among you, let him become a servant or minister.” (Matthew 20:26)
TWO VITAL RESPONSIBILITIES TAUGHT IN THESE VERSES:
· Make disciples--that is, to win souls
· Teach them "...to observe all things..." (Matthew 28:20)
· Literally, we the saved, "born-again believers," are charged with the task of winning souls and teaching others to win souls
OUR PERSONAL COMMISSION TO TEACH OTHERS:
Matthew 28:20: When others ask by what authority you have to teach others, this is the commissioning verse... teaching them to observe.
2 Timothy 2:2: Reveals a personal revolving commission which has finally reached US: "And the things that thou (Timothy) hast heard of me (apostle Paul) among many witnesses (preachers only?) , the same commit thou to faithful men (believers/saved--not just preachers) , who shall be able to teach others also."
There are four responsible teachers in this verse:
· Paul taught Timothy...
· Timothy taught faithful men...
· Faithful men taught others...
· Others are to teach others...
Soul Winning: Lesson 1 cont.
What were the others to do? It is inferred that they should begin the circle of teaching all over again. The revolving circle of one generation teaching another generation has finally reached YOU!
PETER COMMANDS THE BELIEVER TO SANCTIFY THE PRINCIPLE OF SOUL-WINNING
(1 Peter 3:15)--VERSE BREAKDOWN HERE:
· "SANCTIFY" means to "set apart," master, get a hold of, give all to
· “THE LORD GOD IN YOUR HEARTS": this means "the plan of salvation"--master the plan of salvation, the principles of salvation so you may...
· "GIVE AN ANSWER"
· To whom: "EVERY MAN..."
· Of what: "THE HOPE YOU HAVE..."
· How: "WITH MEEKNESS AND FEAR." You cannot escape your responsibility because you are fearful or scared.
YOU ARE TO BECOME A TEACHER:
· Hebrews 5:12: For the time when you ought to be TEACHERS
· Hebrews 10:39: We incur the displeasure of GOD by drawing back. What will we do? Believe you can win souls or "...draw back unto perdition" or destruction?
THE LOCAL CHURCH WAS CREATED FOR THE IMPORTANT TASK OF SPIRITUALLY TEACHING AND DEVELOPING YOU. BUT THE BIBLE IS VERY SPECIFIC CONCERNING WHO IS TO DEVELOP THE MEMBERS AND HOW
· WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR DEVELOPING THE MEMBERS?
Ephesians 4:11: As the Bible plainly says, "...evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;"
· WHY?
Ephesians 4:12: "For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry..."
· PERFECTING: equipping, developing, training, bringing to maturity
· THE SAINTS: (and here's a shocking fact, contrary to Catholic belief) "Either you're a Saint (saved) or you ain't (not saved)."
· FOR THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY: The Saints are to win souls then, teach them "to observe all things."
HOW WILL WE BECOME A SOUL-WINNING CHURCH?
· By being taught; following the example of Jesus Christ:
· Jesus began both to do and teach
· 1 Peter 5:3: In this important task, our pastor will be our example. He has charge over the flock (Acts 20:28)
· Hebrews 13:7,17: The membership will submit to Bishop’s example, leadership and training. "Obey them (pastors) that have the rule over you..."
Soul Winning: Lesson 1 cont.
HOW DID THE APOSTLE PAUL DEVELOP GREAT SOUL-WINNING CHURCHES?
The Apostle Paul would go into a city which was totally heathen, stay for six months to three years and depart with a sound, highly trained, self-supporting church behind. This church was generally large in membership with pastors and deacons and would continue on in a Scriptural way even after the Apostle Paul left ... but how did he do it?
There are three reactions to this question:
· Many just ignore the question with, "well, it happened, you can't deny that," then drop the subject
· Others say he did it by superhuman, apostolic gifts which no longer exist today.
PROBLEM: Paul said God saved him so he would become a pattern for those who would, after him, be saved. (1 Timothy 1:16)
THEREFORE: We can rule out this argument that Paul was given special favors and gifts no one else in the world could have because for Paul to be a pattern, then the succeeding Saints, to the end of this world, will be inheritors.
· The third reaction is to examine Paul's methodology in order to duplicate it
He traveled with four or five other preachers who worked under Paul's direction, doing the same work Paul did. Paul, Titus, Timothy, Dr. Luke and others. This point is very important in the rapid duplication of Paul's ministry
Acts 20:20: This verse shows the simple method of Paul's success:
· Paul taught people how to witness in a public meeting
· He shows people how to witness in a public service (soul-winning demonstration)
· He taught a person how to witness in a home. (He was a teacher-example to the young convert while out winning souls)
· He would do this until his student had learned sufficiently; then the student would in turn become the teacher. Paul would take a new student and develop him using the same procedure. If the student was slower, Paul took more time. If the student learned rapidly, Paul took less time. This on-the-job training of showing and teaching continues until the person is able to win souls ... then he becomes a soul-winner-trainer himself.
EXAMPLE: If Paul did on-the-job training with 30 men at a time; if Silas would teach 25; if Timothy would teach 25; if Dr. Luke would teach 25; if others taught 25 ... in a few months, Paul and his staff would train 150-200 men who would become trainers. This procedure would then double with Paul and his staff training a new group while the trainees who became trainers would train others. This procedure was followed until the city was evangelized.
SUMMARY
The Bible teaches method as strongly as it teaches doctrine. Why limit the beautiful doctrine of God's Word by missing the method of mass evangelism? Pastors and evangelists were given to the Saints in order to develop them (by example) in the ministry of winning souls and training those who are won to win souls. This is done through public teaching and showing followed by on-the-job training by the soul-winner-trainer and silent partner-trainee teams. If we get back to the New Testament methods we will have New Testament (Book of Acts) results.
INTRODUCTION:
Many quote verse 20, "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you..." The key of this verse is the word "observe"--to do, to practice ... all things commanded of us.
TO WHOM WAS JESUS SPEAKING? TO A LOCAL BODY OF BELIEVERS: His disciples
· The point: He was talking to believers (those saved)
· He did not limit himself to "just preachers."
· Settle this point in your mind: Jesus was not speaking “just to preachers” in these verses.
Acts 1:8: The church is: MADE UP OF BELIEVERS and believers are TO WIN SOULS.
JESUS: OUR GREAT EXAMPLE:
· Matthew 23:3: Jesus strongly denounced the Scribes and Pharisees as hypocrites because "...they say, and do not." He said they serve him with their mouth but their hearts are far from Him.
· Matthew 20:28: He said He "came not to be ministered unto, but to minister..."
· Acts 1:1: "Jesus began both to do and teach." The doing came before the teaching.
· Jesus said “but whosoever will be great among you, let him become a servant or minister.” (Matthew 20:26)
TWO VITAL RESPONSIBILITIES TAUGHT IN THESE VERSES:
· Make disciples--that is, to win souls
· Teach them "...to observe all things..." (Matthew 28:20)
· Literally, we the saved, "born-again believers," are charged with the task of winning souls and teaching others to win souls
OUR PERSONAL COMMISSION TO TEACH OTHERS:
Matthew 28:20: When others ask by what authority you have to teach others, this is the commissioning verse... teaching them to observe.
2 Timothy 2:2: Reveals a personal revolving commission which has finally reached US: "And the things that thou (Timothy) hast heard of me (apostle Paul) among many witnesses (preachers only?) , the same commit thou to faithful men (believers/saved--not just preachers) , who shall be able to teach others also."
There are four responsible teachers in this verse:
· Paul taught Timothy...
· Timothy taught faithful men...
· Faithful men taught others...
· Others are to teach others...
Soul Winning: Lesson 1 cont.
What were the others to do? It is inferred that they should begin the circle of teaching all over again. The revolving circle of one generation teaching another generation has finally reached YOU!
PETER COMMANDS THE BELIEVER TO SANCTIFY THE PRINCIPLE OF SOUL-WINNING
(1 Peter 3:15)--VERSE BREAKDOWN HERE:
· "SANCTIFY" means to "set apart," master, get a hold of, give all to
· “THE LORD GOD IN YOUR HEARTS": this means "the plan of salvation"--master the plan of salvation, the principles of salvation so you may...
· "GIVE AN ANSWER"
· To whom: "EVERY MAN..."
· Of what: "THE HOPE YOU HAVE..."
· How: "WITH MEEKNESS AND FEAR." You cannot escape your responsibility because you are fearful or scared.
YOU ARE TO BECOME A TEACHER:
· Hebrews 5:12: For the time when you ought to be TEACHERS
· Hebrews 10:39: We incur the displeasure of GOD by drawing back. What will we do? Believe you can win souls or "...draw back unto perdition" or destruction?
THE LOCAL CHURCH WAS CREATED FOR THE IMPORTANT TASK OF SPIRITUALLY TEACHING AND DEVELOPING YOU. BUT THE BIBLE IS VERY SPECIFIC CONCERNING WHO IS TO DEVELOP THE MEMBERS AND HOW
· WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR DEVELOPING THE MEMBERS?
Ephesians 4:11: As the Bible plainly says, "...evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;"
· WHY?
Ephesians 4:12: "For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry..."
· PERFECTING: equipping, developing, training, bringing to maturity
· THE SAINTS: (and here's a shocking fact, contrary to Catholic belief) "Either you're a Saint (saved) or you ain't (not saved)."
· FOR THE WORK OF THE MINISTRY: The Saints are to win souls then, teach them "to observe all things."
HOW WILL WE BECOME A SOUL-WINNING CHURCH?
· By being taught; following the example of Jesus Christ:
· Jesus began both to do and teach
· 1 Peter 5:3: In this important task, our pastor will be our example. He has charge over the flock (Acts 20:28)
· Hebrews 13:7,17: The membership will submit to Bishop’s example, leadership and training. "Obey them (pastors) that have the rule over you..."
Soul Winning: Lesson 1 cont.
HOW DID THE APOSTLE PAUL DEVELOP GREAT SOUL-WINNING CHURCHES?
The Apostle Paul would go into a city which was totally heathen, stay for six months to three years and depart with a sound, highly trained, self-supporting church behind. This church was generally large in membership with pastors and deacons and would continue on in a Scriptural way even after the Apostle Paul left ... but how did he do it?
There are three reactions to this question:
· Many just ignore the question with, "well, it happened, you can't deny that," then drop the subject
· Others say he did it by superhuman, apostolic gifts which no longer exist today.
PROBLEM: Paul said God saved him so he would become a pattern for those who would, after him, be saved. (1 Timothy 1:16)
THEREFORE: We can rule out this argument that Paul was given special favors and gifts no one else in the world could have because for Paul to be a pattern, then the succeeding Saints, to the end of this world, will be inheritors.
· The third reaction is to examine Paul's methodology in order to duplicate it
He traveled with four or five other preachers who worked under Paul's direction, doing the same work Paul did. Paul, Titus, Timothy, Dr. Luke and others. This point is very important in the rapid duplication of Paul's ministry
Acts 20:20: This verse shows the simple method of Paul's success:
· Paul taught people how to witness in a public meeting
· He shows people how to witness in a public service (soul-winning demonstration)
· He taught a person how to witness in a home. (He was a teacher-example to the young convert while out winning souls)
· He would do this until his student had learned sufficiently; then the student would in turn become the teacher. Paul would take a new student and develop him using the same procedure. If the student was slower, Paul took more time. If the student learned rapidly, Paul took less time. This on-the-job training of showing and teaching continues until the person is able to win souls ... then he becomes a soul-winner-trainer himself.
EXAMPLE: If Paul did on-the-job training with 30 men at a time; if Silas would teach 25; if Timothy would teach 25; if Dr. Luke would teach 25; if others taught 25 ... in a few months, Paul and his staff would train 150-200 men who would become trainers. This procedure would then double with Paul and his staff training a new group while the trainees who became trainers would train others. This procedure was followed until the city was evangelized.
SUMMARY
The Bible teaches method as strongly as it teaches doctrine. Why limit the beautiful doctrine of God's Word by missing the method of mass evangelism? Pastors and evangelists were given to the Saints in order to develop them (by example) in the ministry of winning souls and training those who are won to win souls. This is done through public teaching and showing followed by on-the-job training by the soul-winner-trainer and silent partner-trainee teams. If we get back to the New Testament methods we will have New Testament (Book of Acts) results.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Keys of Truth: 2 Thessalonians Chapter 3
Chapter summary
Paul is well aware that everyone in the present difficult times needs prayer—himself included. God will answer prayer and not only strengthen His people but deliver them from the evil one (3:1-5).
Paul then deals rather bluntly with believers who have used the rumors about history's imminent end to quit work and live off their more industrious brothers and sisters. Don't feed them. Let them go to work and take care of themselves (vv. 6-10). And Paul adds an interesting reason why most folks really need to work: They not only sponge off others, but also go around gossiping and stirring up trouble.
We're to keep busy, but keep busy "doing what is right" (vv. 11-13). These instructions of Paul concerning work are to be strictly obeyed and anyone who fails to obey is to be disciplined by the church (vv. 14-15). The letter closes with a brief personal note (vv. 16-18).
1) Let’s pray that God’s Word spread like an uncontrollable fire, and believed by all that hear the gospel.
2) Also pray that God will preserve us through all trials, tribulations and tests.
3) The Lord is faithful and will strengthen and protect us against Satan (the devil).
4) We must continue to obey the Word of God.
5) As we continue in God’s love and Christ’s endurance, God will direct our lives.
6) We are to have no fellowship with those who are rebellious, and live undisciplined lives, not living according to God’s Word.
7) We must follow our pastor’s example; living a life of commitment to Christ and love.
8) Do not burden anyone necessarily. Do what you can for yourself.
9) We should give financial support to our pastor, seeing that he labors for our benefit.
10) Those that refuse to work should not eat.
11) Do not interfere in the life of others; don’t be a busy-body. Mine your own business.
12) We cannot allow ourselves to get tired of doing what’s right.
13) Those that refuse to hear and obey the teaching of the Church must be made to feel ashamed. We must limit our fellowship with them. Don’t treat them like enemies; however, try to reach them in love.
14) The peace that comes from God is ours at all times and in every way.
Paul is well aware that everyone in the present difficult times needs prayer—himself included. God will answer prayer and not only strengthen His people but deliver them from the evil one (3:1-5).
Paul then deals rather bluntly with believers who have used the rumors about history's imminent end to quit work and live off their more industrious brothers and sisters. Don't feed them. Let them go to work and take care of themselves (vv. 6-10). And Paul adds an interesting reason why most folks really need to work: They not only sponge off others, but also go around gossiping and stirring up trouble.
We're to keep busy, but keep busy "doing what is right" (vv. 11-13). These instructions of Paul concerning work are to be strictly obeyed and anyone who fails to obey is to be disciplined by the church (vv. 14-15). The letter closes with a brief personal note (vv. 16-18).
1) Let’s pray that God’s Word spread like an uncontrollable fire, and believed by all that hear the gospel.
2) Also pray that God will preserve us through all trials, tribulations and tests.
3) The Lord is faithful and will strengthen and protect us against Satan (the devil).
4) We must continue to obey the Word of God.
5) As we continue in God’s love and Christ’s endurance, God will direct our lives.
6) We are to have no fellowship with those who are rebellious, and live undisciplined lives, not living according to God’s Word.
7) We must follow our pastor’s example; living a life of commitment to Christ and love.
8) Do not burden anyone necessarily. Do what you can for yourself.
9) We should give financial support to our pastor, seeing that he labors for our benefit.
10) Those that refuse to work should not eat.
11) Do not interfere in the life of others; don’t be a busy-body. Mine your own business.
12) We cannot allow ourselves to get tired of doing what’s right.
13) Those that refuse to hear and obey the teaching of the Church must be made to feel ashamed. We must limit our fellowship with them. Don’t treat them like enemies; however, try to reach them in love.
14) The peace that comes from God is ours at all times and in every way.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Keys of Truth: 2 Thessalonians Chapter 2
Chapter summary
Rumors had been sweeping the Thessalonian church that Paul identified the present tribulation as the onset of the "Day of the Lord." This Old Testament phrase is used in prophecy to indicate the culminating events associated with history's end (2:1-2). Paul points out that this could not possibly be: The "man of lawlessness" (the Antichrist) has not yet appeared (vv. 3-5). The evil principle that will find full expression in the Antichrist is at work in present history, but its full expression is currently held back by the Holy Spirit (vv. 6-7a). When the Spirit's dampening presence is removed the Antichrist will be unveiled, identified by demonically energized miracles that delude the unconverted (vv. 7b-12).
As believers called to live in troubled times, the Thessalonians must rejoice in their salvation and in the awareness that when Jesus comes they will share His glory (vv. 13-15). So Paul, raising his hands in benediction, blesses them with encouragement, hope, and strength for every good deed (vv. 16-17).
1) The day of the Lord has not come yet. Jesus has not returned yet for the Church.
2) Do not be alarmed if someone says that Jesus has already returned.
3) Jesus will not return before there is apostasy (abandonment of faith in the true and living God), and the Antichrist is revealed.
4) The Antichrist will desire to be worshipped as god-almighty.
5) The Spirit of God now restrains the Antichrist from being revealed, however, when the time comes he will be revealed.
6) The spirit of rebellion is already at work in some secretly, being unknown to those who are under this spirit’s influence.
7) When Jesus comes to establish His kingdom upon the earth, the Antichrist will be destroyed by Jesus’ appearing and the words of His mouth.
8) Satan is the source of power for the Antichrist. The Antichrist will perform miracles and wonderful signs by Satan’s power, but they will be lies.
9) This power will be used to deceive those who refused to love the truth that saves. The Truth is in Jesus!
10) Those that have been deceived will be condemned and destroyed. God will allow this to happen, because they failed to do what pleases God (believing and accepting Jesus as Savior and Lord).
11) We are loved and chosen by God, being saved through a life of spiritual devotion and faith in the truth.
12) We have life in the Spirit through the gospel preached to us; having obtained the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ (we have His manifest presence in our lives).
13) Always remember what the Word of God teaches; hold on to the truth.
14) God through His kindness gives us courage, strength and hope. This courage and strength helps us do and say everything that pleases God.
Rumors had been sweeping the Thessalonian church that Paul identified the present tribulation as the onset of the "Day of the Lord." This Old Testament phrase is used in prophecy to indicate the culminating events associated with history's end (2:1-2). Paul points out that this could not possibly be: The "man of lawlessness" (the Antichrist) has not yet appeared (vv. 3-5). The evil principle that will find full expression in the Antichrist is at work in present history, but its full expression is currently held back by the Holy Spirit (vv. 6-7a). When the Spirit's dampening presence is removed the Antichrist will be unveiled, identified by demonically energized miracles that delude the unconverted (vv. 7b-12).
As believers called to live in troubled times, the Thessalonians must rejoice in their salvation and in the awareness that when Jesus comes they will share His glory (vv. 13-15). So Paul, raising his hands in benediction, blesses them with encouragement, hope, and strength for every good deed (vv. 16-17).
1) The day of the Lord has not come yet. Jesus has not returned yet for the Church.
2) Do not be alarmed if someone says that Jesus has already returned.
3) Jesus will not return before there is apostasy (abandonment of faith in the true and living God), and the Antichrist is revealed.
4) The Antichrist will desire to be worshipped as god-almighty.
5) The Spirit of God now restrains the Antichrist from being revealed, however, when the time comes he will be revealed.
6) The spirit of rebellion is already at work in some secretly, being unknown to those who are under this spirit’s influence.
7) When Jesus comes to establish His kingdom upon the earth, the Antichrist will be destroyed by Jesus’ appearing and the words of His mouth.
8) Satan is the source of power for the Antichrist. The Antichrist will perform miracles and wonderful signs by Satan’s power, but they will be lies.
9) This power will be used to deceive those who refused to love the truth that saves. The Truth is in Jesus!
10) Those that have been deceived will be condemned and destroyed. God will allow this to happen, because they failed to do what pleases God (believing and accepting Jesus as Savior and Lord).
11) We are loved and chosen by God, being saved through a life of spiritual devotion and faith in the truth.
12) We have life in the Spirit through the gospel preached to us; having obtained the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ (we have His manifest presence in our lives).
13) Always remember what the Word of God teaches; hold on to the truth.
14) God through His kindness gives us courage, strength and hope. This courage and strength helps us do and say everything that pleases God.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Keys of Truth: 2 Thessalonians Chapter 1
Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians was also written from Corinth, the last location Paul, Silas, and Timothy were known to have been together. It was probably written shortly after the first letter, in response to new developments in Thessalonica. There persecution had intensified, and many of the victims were struggling with despair. The only way out seemed to be the return of Christ, and rumors had started that Paul himself was saying the time of the end had arrived! One impact of this on the church was that many simply stopped work and lived off others. Why worry if Jesus is coming back tomorrow?
In this letter Paul deals with each of these three issues. The Christian is suffering now, but God will repay the persecutors—and reward the faithful (1:1-12). As for Christ's return to earth, that takes place after the "Day of the Lord" described in Old Testament prophecy—after the Antichrist appears (2:1-17). As a result, there's no basis for the idleness of some. Paul's simple solution to that problem is don't feed idle people. If they're able-bodied and still won't work, they won't eat!
Chapter summary
As is his practice, Paul wishes the recipients of this letter grace and peace (1:1-2). He also expresses his thanks for the growing love for one another evidenced in the Thessalonian church and particularly for their perseverance in the face of growing persecution (vv. 3-4). Rather than meeting persecution with fear or doubts Paul reminds them that the active hostility of the unsaved is evidence that God's judgment is correct: People are sinners and desperately need the salvation they have experienced! (v. 5)
When Jesus returns, the persecutors will be punished terribly and they, who are victims now, will be revealed as Jesus' own holy people (1:6-10). Paul is not praying that the Thessalonians find immediate relief from their trials, but that they may be worthy of God's calling and fulfill His purposes in them (vv. 11-12). It is important to God and for us that we meet challenges well, not that we be released from them.
1) We are united with God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
2) The power and peace of God belongs to us!
3) Our remarkable spiritual growth and development should cause our pastor to give praise to God.
4) Our faith should be growing and our love for each other increasing.
5) We must learn to endure the sufferings of this life.
6) When we endure suffering, God is proven right in His choice of us for His Kingdom.
7) When our suffering comes as a result of other people, God Himself will cause them to suffer.
8) We will be relieved of all suffering when Jesus comes back.
9) Those that refuse to acknowledge, and respond to the gospel of salvation, will be punished. Their punishment will be destruction; being separated from God’s presence forever.
10) The coming of the Lord Jesus Christ will be a day of celebration and honor for the believer.
11) We must remain worthy of God’s call; living by God’s power and accomplishing good things, being productive in faith.
12) When we are productive, and Spirit- led and filled, the Lord Jesus Christ is honored.
13) Because we honor the Lord Jesus Christ, God the Father will honor us.
In this letter Paul deals with each of these three issues. The Christian is suffering now, but God will repay the persecutors—and reward the faithful (1:1-12). As for Christ's return to earth, that takes place after the "Day of the Lord" described in Old Testament prophecy—after the Antichrist appears (2:1-17). As a result, there's no basis for the idleness of some. Paul's simple solution to that problem is don't feed idle people. If they're able-bodied and still won't work, they won't eat!
Chapter summary
As is his practice, Paul wishes the recipients of this letter grace and peace (1:1-2). He also expresses his thanks for the growing love for one another evidenced in the Thessalonian church and particularly for their perseverance in the face of growing persecution (vv. 3-4). Rather than meeting persecution with fear or doubts Paul reminds them that the active hostility of the unsaved is evidence that God's judgment is correct: People are sinners and desperately need the salvation they have experienced! (v. 5)
When Jesus returns, the persecutors will be punished terribly and they, who are victims now, will be revealed as Jesus' own holy people (1:6-10). Paul is not praying that the Thessalonians find immediate relief from their trials, but that they may be worthy of God's calling and fulfill His purposes in them (vv. 11-12). It is important to God and for us that we meet challenges well, not that we be released from them.
1) We are united with God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
2) The power and peace of God belongs to us!
3) Our remarkable spiritual growth and development should cause our pastor to give praise to God.
4) Our faith should be growing and our love for each other increasing.
5) We must learn to endure the sufferings of this life.
6) When we endure suffering, God is proven right in His choice of us for His Kingdom.
7) When our suffering comes as a result of other people, God Himself will cause them to suffer.
8) We will be relieved of all suffering when Jesus comes back.
9) Those that refuse to acknowledge, and respond to the gospel of salvation, will be punished. Their punishment will be destruction; being separated from God’s presence forever.
10) The coming of the Lord Jesus Christ will be a day of celebration and honor for the believer.
11) We must remain worthy of God’s call; living by God’s power and accomplishing good things, being productive in faith.
12) When we are productive, and Spirit- led and filled, the Lord Jesus Christ is honored.
13) Because we honor the Lord Jesus Christ, God the Father will honor us.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Keys of Truth: First Thessalonians (Chapter 5)
Chapter summary
Paul reminds the Thessalonians that no one knows the time of the Lord's coming (5:1-3), so they must remain "awake" and alert, focusing together on living God's Word (vv. 4-11). He concludes his letter with a series of brief reminders of just what this means (vv. 12-22) and a benediction promising that our faithful God will "sanctify them through and through" till Jesus returns (vv. 23-28).
1) We should not be concerned with the times and dates that have been established in the counsel of God.
2) Jesus’ return will be as a thief in the night, completely unexpected.
3) When the world thinks that peace and safety has come, destruction will suddenly strike; like a pregnant woman that suddenly goes into labor. The world will not be able to escape.
4) Christians don’t live in the dark. The believer confidently expects the return of Jesus for His Church. We are preparing now for His return.
5) God’s children live in the daylight, not in the darkness of night.
6) We must not be asleep like the people of the world; but awake, and sober.
7) Those who are asleep live in the dark; lost, distracted, and drunk.
8) We live and walk in the light, sober, and dressed in faith and love; our head being covered with the hope of salvation.
9) God has not chosen us to experience His anger, wrath and
condemnation. Instead, we have been chosen to obtain salvation through Jesus Christ.
10) Jesus died for us. So when He appears in the air, whether we are dead or still alive, we will be taken up to meet Him in the air. We will be with Jesus and share His life.
11) Let’s encourage and strengthen each other.
12) We should trust, recognize, acknowledge, and respect those who God has made our leaders; knowing their value, purpose and importance, to our lives.
13) We should esteem our leaders, be kind to them, appreciating their work and ministry.
14) We are to warn those who refuse to obey, and are rebellious. Encourage the fearful, give support to those who are weak. Be patient with everyone and watch our temper.
15) The evil acts of others do not require evil responses. Let's chose to be kind.
16) Let your devotion to and confidence in Jesus be your source of joy. Be glad and rejoice always.
17) Remember to remain prayerful always.
18) Thank God, no matter what your circumstances may be. We do not thank God for the circumstances; we thank God because it is God’s desire for us to thank Him.
19) Do not try to suppress, or control, the Holy Spirit.
20) We should appreciate the gifts and words of the prophets; being thankful for their inspired teaching, encouragement, and warnings.
21) We should be able to recognize the things that are good. Even if we don’t like them; understand their value, because the good should be kept.
22) Stay away from everything that’s evil, no matter what it is.
23) God himself will set you apart completely; by making you aware of the things that please, and displease Him. We will be totally preserved and complete; being found blameless when Jesus comes.
24) The faithful God has called us to Himself; as He is trustworthy, He is able to fulfill His promise.
25) Pray for one another, and show each other love.
26) We have God’s power and blessing.
Paul reminds the Thessalonians that no one knows the time of the Lord's coming (5:1-3), so they must remain "awake" and alert, focusing together on living God's Word (vv. 4-11). He concludes his letter with a series of brief reminders of just what this means (vv. 12-22) and a benediction promising that our faithful God will "sanctify them through and through" till Jesus returns (vv. 23-28).
1) We should not be concerned with the times and dates that have been established in the counsel of God.
2) Jesus’ return will be as a thief in the night, completely unexpected.
3) When the world thinks that peace and safety has come, destruction will suddenly strike; like a pregnant woman that suddenly goes into labor. The world will not be able to escape.
4) Christians don’t live in the dark. The believer confidently expects the return of Jesus for His Church. We are preparing now for His return.
5) God’s children live in the daylight, not in the darkness of night.
6) We must not be asleep like the people of the world; but awake, and sober.
7) Those who are asleep live in the dark; lost, distracted, and drunk.
8) We live and walk in the light, sober, and dressed in faith and love; our head being covered with the hope of salvation.
9) God has not chosen us to experience His anger, wrath and
condemnation. Instead, we have been chosen to obtain salvation through Jesus Christ.
10) Jesus died for us. So when He appears in the air, whether we are dead or still alive, we will be taken up to meet Him in the air. We will be with Jesus and share His life.
11) Let’s encourage and strengthen each other.
12) We should trust, recognize, acknowledge, and respect those who God has made our leaders; knowing their value, purpose and importance, to our lives.
13) We should esteem our leaders, be kind to them, appreciating their work and ministry.
14) We are to warn those who refuse to obey, and are rebellious. Encourage the fearful, give support to those who are weak. Be patient with everyone and watch our temper.
15) The evil acts of others do not require evil responses. Let's chose to be kind.
16) Let your devotion to and confidence in Jesus be your source of joy. Be glad and rejoice always.
17) Remember to remain prayerful always.
18) Thank God, no matter what your circumstances may be. We do not thank God for the circumstances; we thank God because it is God’s desire for us to thank Him.
19) Do not try to suppress, or control, the Holy Spirit.
20) We should appreciate the gifts and words of the prophets; being thankful for their inspired teaching, encouragement, and warnings.
21) We should be able to recognize the things that are good. Even if we don’t like them; understand their value, because the good should be kept.
22) Stay away from everything that’s evil, no matter what it is.
23) God himself will set you apart completely; by making you aware of the things that please, and displease Him. We will be totally preserved and complete; being found blameless when Jesus comes.
24) The faithful God has called us to Himself; as He is trustworthy, He is able to fulfill His promise.
25) Pray for one another, and show each other love.
26) We have God’s power and blessing.
Keys of Truth: Ephesians (Chapter 5)
1) Because we are God’s children we should seek to imitate Him.
2) We are to love as Christ has loved us; giving His life for us as an offering, an offering of sweet fragrance.
3) Sexual sin, perversion of any kind, or greed should not be a problem for God’s holy people.
4) The telling of dirty stories, obscene jokes, and foolish talk affect the witness and life of God’s holy people.
5) Those who make a practice of doing the fore mentioned things cannot have any inheritance in the kingdom of God.
6) Don’t be taken in by meaningless words, God gets angry if we continue to sin and not obey Him.
7) Don’t associate with people who refuse to obey God and His Word.
8) We have the light and life of God in us, and have come out of darkness.
9) The light that God gives produces everything that is good, and is true.
10) We are to learn what pleases God.
11) Denounce all that darkness produces and dispel darkness by being filled with light and life.
12) Don’t discuss the things that people do in secret.
13) Light exposes the true character of everything, because light makes things easy to see.
14) Be very careful how you live. Don’t behave foolishly; be wise.
15) Make the most of your opportunities because days we live in are evil.
16) Don’t be foolish; learn to understand what pleases God.
17) Don’t get drunk on wine, which leads to wild living. Instead, be filled with God’s Spirit.
18) We stay filled with the Spirit by reciting psalms, hymn, and spiritual songs; singing and making music unto the Lord.
19) Always gives thanks to God in Jesus name for everything.
20) Submit to each other in love because of Jesus and His love.
21) Wives are to respect their husbands just as they respect Jesus, and submit to Jesus’ authority.
22) The husband is responsible for his wife, just as Jesus is for the Church. The Church is the body of Christ in the Earth; under the influence of Jesus and Jesus is responsible for the Church’s salvation.
23) Husbands are to love their wives just as Christ loves the Church, which he gave His life for.
24) Jesus in giving His life made the Church holy by cleansing it, with water (by baptism) along with His spoken words.
25) Jesus by His actions makes the Church glorious, without any kind of stain or winkle – holy without faults.
26) Husbands love your wives like you love yourself. A man who loves his wife loves himself.
27) No sane person hates their own body. Instead, we feed and care for our bodies, just as Christ cares for the Church.
28) We are all a part of Christ’s body.
29) A man leaves his father and mother to become united with his wife, and the two become one.
30) The relationship between Christ and the Church is a mystery.
31) Every husband must love his wife as he loves himself, and wives should value, respect and honor, their husbands.
2) We are to love as Christ has loved us; giving His life for us as an offering, an offering of sweet fragrance.
3) Sexual sin, perversion of any kind, or greed should not be a problem for God’s holy people.
4) The telling of dirty stories, obscene jokes, and foolish talk affect the witness and life of God’s holy people.
5) Those who make a practice of doing the fore mentioned things cannot have any inheritance in the kingdom of God.
6) Don’t be taken in by meaningless words, God gets angry if we continue to sin and not obey Him.
7) Don’t associate with people who refuse to obey God and His Word.
8) We have the light and life of God in us, and have come out of darkness.
9) The light that God gives produces everything that is good, and is true.
10) We are to learn what pleases God.
11) Denounce all that darkness produces and dispel darkness by being filled with light and life.
12) Don’t discuss the things that people do in secret.
13) Light exposes the true character of everything, because light makes things easy to see.
14) Be very careful how you live. Don’t behave foolishly; be wise.
15) Make the most of your opportunities because days we live in are evil.
16) Don’t be foolish; learn to understand what pleases God.
17) Don’t get drunk on wine, which leads to wild living. Instead, be filled with God’s Spirit.
18) We stay filled with the Spirit by reciting psalms, hymn, and spiritual songs; singing and making music unto the Lord.
19) Always gives thanks to God in Jesus name for everything.
20) Submit to each other in love because of Jesus and His love.
21) Wives are to respect their husbands just as they respect Jesus, and submit to Jesus’ authority.
22) The husband is responsible for his wife, just as Jesus is for the Church. The Church is the body of Christ in the Earth; under the influence of Jesus and Jesus is responsible for the Church’s salvation.
23) Husbands are to love their wives just as Christ loves the Church, which he gave His life for.
24) Jesus in giving His life made the Church holy by cleansing it, with water (by baptism) along with His spoken words.
25) Jesus by His actions makes the Church glorious, without any kind of stain or winkle – holy without faults.
26) Husbands love your wives like you love yourself. A man who loves his wife loves himself.
27) No sane person hates their own body. Instead, we feed and care for our bodies, just as Christ cares for the Church.
28) We are all a part of Christ’s body.
29) A man leaves his father and mother to become united with his wife, and the two become one.
30) The relationship between Christ and the Church is a mystery.
31) Every husband must love his wife as he loves himself, and wives should value, respect and honor, their husbands.
Keys of Truth: Ephesians (Chapter 4)
The Church is a New Man
A) The presentation of the new man (Eph. 4:16)
“Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit”
B) The self-consciousness of the new man.
(Eph. 4:7-16)
“No more children – grow up in God – perfect man”
C) The prohibition of the new man. (Eph. 4:17-32)
“Walk not as other Gentiles walk- be kind to each other.”
1) Paul as a servant of God encourages us to live a life that proves that we are called of God.
2) Be humble, gentle and patient in very way, lovingly accepting each other.
3) We are tied together in peace; we must maintain the unity that the Spirit of God gives. 4) There is one body (the Church) and one Spirit (the Spirit of God); and we have one hope (confident expectation).
5) There is one Lord, one faith and one baptism.
6) One God who is the Father of us all, who is over everything, through everything and in everything.
7) We all experience the favor of God, manifest in the person of Jesus Christ.
8) When Jesus ascended – had taken is rightful place in Heaven after His resurrection from the dead, Jesus took captive those that would hold us captive and gave spiritual gifts to us (man).
9) Jesus descended into Hell. (To bring liberty and freedom to all that died with the hope of His coming to conquer death, hell and the grave.)
10) Jesus who went down into Hell has gone above to Heaven so that He fills everything.
11) The gifts that Jesus gave to the Church; Apostles, Prophets, Evangelist, Pastors and Teachers.
12) The purpose for the gifts: to prepare God’s people, to serve and build up the Church.
13) We are to be united in our faith and in our knowledge about Jesus Christ; we are to become mature, and conformed to the image of Christ who is our example.
14) When we are no longer little children, messed up with kinds of teaching that changes like the wind and confuse us; no longer influenced by people who use trickery and cunning strategies to lead us astray.
15) As we lovingly speak the truth we will grow up completely in our relationship to Christ, who is the head of the Church (leader).
16) Christ brings the whole body (the Church) together and unites the body (the Church) supporting every part. As each part of the body (the Church) does its job, he makes the body (the Church) grow that it builds itself in love.
17) Don’t live like people in the world (those outside of the Church); their minds are set on worthless things.
18) Because they are in the dark, the world is excluded from the life that God approves of because of their ignorance and stubbornness.
19) The world has no shame and has become immoral, in the practice of every kind of sexual distortion with a constant desire for more.
20) We don’t learn this from Christ’s teachings.
21) The truth is in Jesus.
22) We are to change our way of living. The person you used to be will ruin you through desires that deceive you.
23) We are taught to have a new attitude.
24) We are taught to become a new person created to be like God, righteous and holy.
25) Get rid of all lies and speak the truth to each other, because we are members of the same body (the Church).
26) Be angry without sinning. Don’t go to bed angry.
27) Don’t give the devil any opportunity to use you or work through you.
28) There should be no thievery or stealing by anyone in the Church, instead we are to work hard. We should do something good with our hands so that we have something to share with those in need.
29) Don’t say anything that would hurt (another person). Instead, speak only what is good so that you can give help wherever it is needed. That way, what you say will help those who hear you.
30) Don’t give the Holy Spirit any reason to be upset with you. He(the Holy Spirit) has put His seal on you for the day you will be set free (from the world of sin).
31) Get rid of all bitterness, hot tempers, anger, fighting, cursing and hatred.
32) Be kind to each other, compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted, forgiving each other as God has forgiven you through Christ.
A) The presentation of the new man (Eph. 4:16)
“Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit”
B) The self-consciousness of the new man.
(Eph. 4:7-16)
“No more children – grow up in God – perfect man”
C) The prohibition of the new man. (Eph. 4:17-32)
“Walk not as other Gentiles walk- be kind to each other.”
1) Paul as a servant of God encourages us to live a life that proves that we are called of God.
2) Be humble, gentle and patient in very way, lovingly accepting each other.
3) We are tied together in peace; we must maintain the unity that the Spirit of God gives. 4) There is one body (the Church) and one Spirit (the Spirit of God); and we have one hope (confident expectation).
5) There is one Lord, one faith and one baptism.
6) One God who is the Father of us all, who is over everything, through everything and in everything.
7) We all experience the favor of God, manifest in the person of Jesus Christ.
8) When Jesus ascended – had taken is rightful place in Heaven after His resurrection from the dead, Jesus took captive those that would hold us captive and gave spiritual gifts to us (man).
9) Jesus descended into Hell. (To bring liberty and freedom to all that died with the hope of His coming to conquer death, hell and the grave.)
10) Jesus who went down into Hell has gone above to Heaven so that He fills everything.
11) The gifts that Jesus gave to the Church; Apostles, Prophets, Evangelist, Pastors and Teachers.
12) The purpose for the gifts: to prepare God’s people, to serve and build up the Church.
13) We are to be united in our faith and in our knowledge about Jesus Christ; we are to become mature, and conformed to the image of Christ who is our example.
14) When we are no longer little children, messed up with kinds of teaching that changes like the wind and confuse us; no longer influenced by people who use trickery and cunning strategies to lead us astray.
15) As we lovingly speak the truth we will grow up completely in our relationship to Christ, who is the head of the Church (leader).
16) Christ brings the whole body (the Church) together and unites the body (the Church) supporting every part. As each part of the body (the Church) does its job, he makes the body (the Church) grow that it builds itself in love.
17) Don’t live like people in the world (those outside of the Church); their minds are set on worthless things.
18) Because they are in the dark, the world is excluded from the life that God approves of because of their ignorance and stubbornness.
19) The world has no shame and has become immoral, in the practice of every kind of sexual distortion with a constant desire for more.
20) We don’t learn this from Christ’s teachings.
21) The truth is in Jesus.
22) We are to change our way of living. The person you used to be will ruin you through desires that deceive you.
23) We are taught to have a new attitude.
24) We are taught to become a new person created to be like God, righteous and holy.
25) Get rid of all lies and speak the truth to each other, because we are members of the same body (the Church).
26) Be angry without sinning. Don’t go to bed angry.
27) Don’t give the devil any opportunity to use you or work through you.
28) There should be no thievery or stealing by anyone in the Church, instead we are to work hard. We should do something good with our hands so that we have something to share with those in need.
29) Don’t say anything that would hurt (another person). Instead, speak only what is good so that you can give help wherever it is needed. That way, what you say will help those who hear you.
30) Don’t give the Holy Spirit any reason to be upset with you. He(the Holy Spirit) has put His seal on you for the day you will be set free (from the world of sin).
31) Get rid of all bitterness, hot tempers, anger, fighting, cursing and hatred.
32) Be kind to each other, compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted, forgiving each other as God has forgiven you through Christ.
Keys of Truth: Ephesians (Chapter 3)
The Church is a Mystery
A) The explanation of the mystery (not revealed in the Old Testament).
(Eph. 3:1-4)
B) The definition of the Mystery (Jews and Gentiles are partakers of the same body).
(Eph. 3:5-13)
C) Prayer for Power and Knowledge (strengthened with might and to know the love of Christ). (Eph. 3:14-21)
1) Paul was a minister called to the Gentiles.
2) Paul’s mission: to bring the truth of God’s kindness to the Gentiles.
3) Paul received the revelation of God’s will relative to the Gentiles.
4) This chapter shows Paul’s knowledge of the mystery – the Church.
5) In the Old Testament this mystery was not made known, however, God chose to reveal this truth to the apostles and prophets.
6) The Gentiles have the same inheritance as the Jews. We all belong to the same body – the Church, and share the same promise that God made in Christ Jesus.
7) Paul became a minister of this revelation through the kindness of God, with God’s power at work in him.
8) Paul counted his self as nothing; believing that God’s kindness is shown to him, in that he is allowed to spread the truth of the immeasurable wealth of Christ to people who are not Jewish.
9) Paul was allowed to teach the truth of the mystery and how it works. God, who created all things, kept it hidden in the past.
10) Through the Church God’s shows His infinite wisdom and this wisdom is witness by all of Heaven.
11) The Church was God’s plan from the beginning of time, which God does through and in Christ.
12) We can go to God with bold confidence through faith in Jesus Christ.
13) Paul suffered so that God’s glory – God’s manifest presence might be revealed to the Church.
14) Paul prays that God’s glory be revealed.
15) God gives a name (or meaning) to our family – the Church - in Heaven and in Earth.
16) Paul prays that the Church would receive a gift from the wealth of God’s glory; inner strength and power through God’s Spirit.
17) Christ lives in us through our faith and that we the Church be grounded – planted in love which is the foundation the Church is built upon.
18) We are to know and understand the full dimensions of God’s love for us.
19) To know that Christ love for us goes far beyond any knowledge. To truly know the love of God completely fills us – gives us wholeness.
20) God’s power is at work in us, and God with His infinite power can do more then we can imagine or ask. All the glory belongs to God.
21) The manifest power in the Church and in witnessed Christ Jesus belongs to God for all time and eternity! (It Is So).
A) The explanation of the mystery (not revealed in the Old Testament).
(Eph. 3:1-4)
B) The definition of the Mystery (Jews and Gentiles are partakers of the same body).
(Eph. 3:5-13)
C) Prayer for Power and Knowledge (strengthened with might and to know the love of Christ). (Eph. 3:14-21)
1) Paul was a minister called to the Gentiles.
2) Paul’s mission: to bring the truth of God’s kindness to the Gentiles.
3) Paul received the revelation of God’s will relative to the Gentiles.
4) This chapter shows Paul’s knowledge of the mystery – the Church.
5) In the Old Testament this mystery was not made known, however, God chose to reveal this truth to the apostles and prophets.
6) The Gentiles have the same inheritance as the Jews. We all belong to the same body – the Church, and share the same promise that God made in Christ Jesus.
7) Paul became a minister of this revelation through the kindness of God, with God’s power at work in him.
8) Paul counted his self as nothing; believing that God’s kindness is shown to him, in that he is allowed to spread the truth of the immeasurable wealth of Christ to people who are not Jewish.
9) Paul was allowed to teach the truth of the mystery and how it works. God, who created all things, kept it hidden in the past.
10) Through the Church God’s shows His infinite wisdom and this wisdom is witness by all of Heaven.
11) The Church was God’s plan from the beginning of time, which God does through and in Christ.
12) We can go to God with bold confidence through faith in Jesus Christ.
13) Paul suffered so that God’s glory – God’s manifest presence might be revealed to the Church.
14) Paul prays that God’s glory be revealed.
15) God gives a name (or meaning) to our family – the Church - in Heaven and in Earth.
16) Paul prays that the Church would receive a gift from the wealth of God’s glory; inner strength and power through God’s Spirit.
17) Christ lives in us through our faith and that we the Church be grounded – planted in love which is the foundation the Church is built upon.
18) We are to know and understand the full dimensions of God’s love for us.
19) To know that Christ love for us goes far beyond any knowledge. To truly know the love of God completely fills us – gives us wholeness.
20) God’s power is at work in us, and God with His infinite power can do more then we can imagine or ask. All the glory belongs to God.
21) The manifest power in the Church and in witnessed Christ Jesus belongs to God for all time and eternity! (It Is So).
Book of Ephesians: Chapter 3
III. THE ETERNAL PURPOSE OF GOD FOR THE CHRISTIAN BELIEVER, 3:1-21
A. A New Body of People: The Great Mystery of Christ, 3:1-13
1) It gave Paul purpose for existing (v.1-2)
a. He existed to be a prisoner for Christ (v.1)
b. He existed to be a steward of God's grace (v.2)
2) It was a mystery: It required a special revelation to become known (v.3-5)
a. Revealed to Paul (v.3-4)
b. Revealed to others (v.5)
3) It was a threefold revelation (v.6)
a. All are fellow-heirs (v.6a)
b. All are of the same body (v.6b)
c. All share in God's promise: The new creation (v.6c)
4) It affected Paul—profoundly (v.7-9)
a. Caused him to become a minister—by the power of God (v.7)
b. Caused him to become a preacher—unworthy as he was (v.8)
c. Caused him to become an evangelist (v.9)
5) It affects heavenly beings even now, profoundly so: Causes them to stand in stark amazement (v.10-12)
a. At what God is doing in the church (v.10)
b. At God's eternal purpose—in Christ (v.11)
c. At the believer's access into God's presence—by faith (v.12)
6) It stirred a willingness within Paul to suffer for the church (v.13)
B. A Mature Believer in Christ: The Great Prayer for the Church and the Believer, 3:14-21
1) The prayer (v.14-15)
a. Was for a cause (v.14a)
b. Was with bowed knees (v.14b)
c. To the Father of Christ (v.14c)
d. Was for the whole family of God: Believers, past and present (v.15)
2) Request 1: For strength, power within—by God's Spirit (v.16)
3) Request 2: For Christ to rule and reign within—by faith (v.17a)
4) Request 3: For love (v.17b)
5) Request 4: For understanding—a full understanding of spiritual things (v.18)
6) Request 5: To know the love of Christ (v.19a)
7) Request 6: For the fulness of God (v.19b)
8) Conclusion: The encouragement to pray and trust God for the answer (v.20-21)
a. The fact: God is able (v.20a)
b. The source: The power that works in us (v.20b)
c. The purpose: That God might be glorified—in the church through Jesus Christ (v.21)
A. A New Body of People: The Great Mystery of Christ, 3:1-13
1) It gave Paul purpose for existing (v.1-2)
a. He existed to be a prisoner for Christ (v.1)
b. He existed to be a steward of God's grace (v.2)
2) It was a mystery: It required a special revelation to become known (v.3-5)
a. Revealed to Paul (v.3-4)
b. Revealed to others (v.5)
3) It was a threefold revelation (v.6)
a. All are fellow-heirs (v.6a)
b. All are of the same body (v.6b)
c. All share in God's promise: The new creation (v.6c)
4) It affected Paul—profoundly (v.7-9)
a. Caused him to become a minister—by the power of God (v.7)
b. Caused him to become a preacher—unworthy as he was (v.8)
c. Caused him to become an evangelist (v.9)
5) It affects heavenly beings even now, profoundly so: Causes them to stand in stark amazement (v.10-12)
a. At what God is doing in the church (v.10)
b. At God's eternal purpose—in Christ (v.11)
c. At the believer's access into God's presence—by faith (v.12)
6) It stirred a willingness within Paul to suffer for the church (v.13)
B. A Mature Believer in Christ: The Great Prayer for the Church and the Believer, 3:14-21
1) The prayer (v.14-15)
a. Was for a cause (v.14a)
b. Was with bowed knees (v.14b)
c. To the Father of Christ (v.14c)
d. Was for the whole family of God: Believers, past and present (v.15)
2) Request 1: For strength, power within—by God's Spirit (v.16)
3) Request 2: For Christ to rule and reign within—by faith (v.17a)
4) Request 3: For love (v.17b)
5) Request 4: For understanding—a full understanding of spiritual things (v.18)
6) Request 5: To know the love of Christ (v.19a)
7) Request 6: For the fulness of God (v.19b)
8) Conclusion: The encouragement to pray and trust God for the answer (v.20-21)
a. The fact: God is able (v.20a)
b. The source: The power that works in us (v.20b)
c. The purpose: That God might be glorified—in the church through Jesus Christ (v.21)
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