Search Headings
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- I. What to Know
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A. God and Spiritual Powers -
1. God's Being -
I. Basics -
a) God's Form - God is one
- God is spirit
- God cannot be seen by people . . .
- . . . In some sense, God is said to have been "seen"
- God is everywhere, not just in temples
- Visions of God
- God’s presence has been manifested in a cloud
- God’s presence has been manifested with fire
- Note: God primarily dwells in heaven . . .
- . . . God’s temple is in heaven
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b) God's Glory - Glory is a prominent and key attribute of God
- God’s glory is an integral aspect of God’s presence
- God’s glory manifests his presence . . .
- . . . God’s glory is spoken of as manifesting his presence in his temples
- God is resplendent with light
- God has great splendor and majesty
- God’s glory is reflected in his powerful deeds
- God’s glory is evidenced throughout the earth and the heavens
- God’s glory will be explicitly revealed throughout the earth, to all nations
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c) God's Personhood - God has a mind – knowing and comprehending things
- God has a will
- God has feelings and character . . .
- . . . God feels emotional pain
- God is active
- God communicates . . .
- . . . and people can communicate with God
- God interacts with people, responding to their requests and needs
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d) God's Eternity - God is alive
- God has always been alive, the first of all things . . .
- . . . God existed before the world began
- God will live forever
- God transcends time
- God is self-existing
- God does not change
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II. God's Pre-Eminence -
a) God's Greatness - God is great and awesome
- God is greater than all others
- God is exalted above all others
- There is no one like God . . .
- . . . Things God does which show that there is no one like him
- God is in fact beyond our comprehension
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b) God's Power (I): Ultimate Power - God is mighty in power . . .
- . . . God is Almighty
- God can do all things – nothing is too hard
- God does whatever pleases him
- God’s power is far superior to that of anyone else . . .
- . . . No being can do what God can do
- Power in fact belongs to God
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c) God's Power (II): His Deeds - God’s great power is shown in his deeds
- God performs great and awesome deeds
- God’s deeds are largely incomprehensible
- God’s deeds are uncountable
- God’s deeds are glorious
- God is exalted and glorified in his powerful deeds
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d) God's Knowledge and Wisdom - God knows everything
- God sees all people, seeing and knowing all that they do . . .
- . . . No one can hide themselves or what they do from God
- God knows all people’s "hearts" and minds
- God knows the future
- God has incredible wisdom
- God’s knowledge and wisdom is far superior to that of people – beyond our comprehension . . .
- . . . God knows much that people do not know
- Note: God can frustrate and take away worldly wisdom – and bring down the wise
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e) Addendum: God's "Name" - God’s “name” is synonymous with God himself
- God’s “name” is synonymous with his presence
- God’s “name” is synonymous with God in him helping his people
- God’s “name” is synonymous with God in people relating to him
- God’s “name” is correlated with his authority and power
- God’s “name” is holy
- God’s “name” is great
- God’s “name” is glorious and exalted
- God’s “name” is praised and blessed
- God acts for the sake of his “name”
- Note: God declared his actual name to be the “Lord”
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2. God's Character -
I. Holy Characteristics -
a) Holiness - God is holy
- There is nothing bad in God – and he cannot tolerate evil
- There is no one holy like God
- God shows himself to be holy by what he does
- Places where God dwells are also holy . . .
- . . . and God only dwells with those who are holy
- Things of God are likewise holy
- Note: God and his ways are perfect
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b) Righteousness and Justice - God is righteous
- God is just
- God's righteousness and justice are great – and everlasting
- God’s ways are right and just . . .
- . . . Examples of God’s righteous and just ways
- All God does is right and just . . .
- . . . God does no wrong
- God is truthful
- God does not show favoritism
- Note: God loves righteousness and justice
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c) Faithfulness - God is faithful
- God's faithfulness is great
- God’s faithfulness lasts forever
- God never forsakes
- God does not lie nor change his mind – he keeps his promises
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d) Anger - God's anger and its consequences are awesome . . .
- . . . This has been and will be evident upon all nations and the whole earth
- God’s anger cannot be quenched
- God’s anger cannot be withstood
- God is slow to anger and often holds it back
- God does not stay angry
- God’s anger arises in response to sin and disobedience
- God’s anger arises in response to people forsaking him
- Other things that arouse God’s anger
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II. Loving Characteristics -
a) Love - God is love – as epitomized in him giving his only Son, to save us
- God's love is great
- God’s love is steadfast
- God’s love lasts forever
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b) Mercy - God is merciful
- God's mercy is great and never ending
- Along with being merciful, God is gracious
- God is compassionate
- Due to his mercy, graciousness and compassion: God is long-suffering; . . .
- . . . and God is forgiving
- Note: God is patient – allowing people to repent
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c) Benevolence - God is good
- God shows great goodness
- God exercises kindness
- God is generous
- God gives good gifts . . .
- . . . God is the ultimate source of all gifts
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d) Jealousy - God is a jealous God
- God's jealousy arises in response to his people’s sin
- God’s jealousy arises particularly in response to unfaithfulness
- God is jealous for his people and their well-being . . .
- . . . and God is zealous in working for his people’s cause
- Note: In his jealousy and zeal God punishes his enemies and the ungodly
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3. Jesus Christ -
I. General -
a) Jesus Christ's Eternity - Jesus Christ is alive
- Jesus Christ existed in the beginning . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ was before all things
- Further references to Jesus Christ existing prior to his advent
- Jesus Christ will be alive forever
- Jesus Christ is self-existing – he is "the life"
- Jesus Christ remains the same
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b) Jesus Christ's Pre-Eminence - Jesus Christ is greater than all people
- Jesus Christ is greater than all things
- Jesus Christ has divine glory
- Visions of Jesus Christ, indicative of his surpassing greatness and glory
- Jesus Christ has mighty, sovereign power
- Jesus Christ has superlative knowledge and wisdom
- Jesus Christ is everywhere
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c) Jesus Christ's Character - Jesus Christ is holy
- Jesus Christ is righteous . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ judges in righteousness and with justice
- Jesus Christ is faithful
- Jesus Christ is loving
- Jesus Christ shows grace . . .
- . . . and Jesus Christ is merciful
- Jesus Christ can display anger and jealousy
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d) Jesus Christ's 'Name' - Jesus Christ’s "name" signifies Jesus Christ himself
- Jesus Christ’s “name” is correlated with his authority and power
- Jesus Christ’s “name” signifies him in his attainment of forgiveness of sins
- Jesus Christ’s “name” signifies him in his attainment of salvation and eternal life
- Jesus Christ’s “name” signifies him in his gospel and cause – with Christians being devoted to it
- Note: God has given Jesus Christ a name that is superior to all others
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II. Jesus Christ and God -
a) Jesus Christ Is the Son of God (I): General - Jesus Christ is the Son of God . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ is God's only Son
- God is Jesus Christ’s Father
- Jesus Christ is the image of God
- Jesus Christ has the form and fullness of God – equality in nature
- Note: The Father loves his Son
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b) Jesus Christ Is the Son of God (II): Testimony - God testifies to Jesus Christ being his Son
- The Holy Spirit testifies to Jesus Christ being the Son of God
- Jesus Christ himself testified to being the Son of God – which is why he was crucified
- Others also testified to Jesus Christ being the Son of God
- Jesus Christ's deeds are evidence that he is the Son of God
- Other events of Jesus Christ’s incarnation are evidence that he is the Son of God
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c) Jesus Christ Is Identified with God - Jesus Christ and the Father are one – each is in the other
- To know or see Jesus Christ is to know or see the Father
- Jesus Christ is called "God" . . .
- . . . and Jesus' usage of “I am” quite possibly alludes to God’s name
- Titles of God are applied to Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . Other OT references to God are applied to Jesus Christ
- Some actions are attributed to both God and Jesus Christ
- Some things are said to be both God’s and Jesus Christ’s
- Further evidence of Jesus Christ’s identification with God
- Note: There is one God, the Father – and one Lord, Jesus Christ
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d) Jesus Christ Is Treated like God Is - Jesus Christ is worshiped
- Jesus Christ is honored and glorified
- Jesus Christ is offered praise and blessing
- People pray to Jesus Christ
- People obey, follow and serve Jesus Christ
- People believe and have faith in Jesus Christ
- People put their hope in Jesus Christ
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e) Jesus Christ Is Under God's Authority - God is both Jesus Christ’s God and his Father
- Jesus Christ is portrayed as being subordinate to God’s authority . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ’s authority was even granted to him by his Father
- Jesus Christ was God’s to give – as a sacrifice for sin
- Jesus Christ was chosen, anointed and sent by God
- Jesus Christ is God’s servant, largely spoken of in reference to his mission
- Jesus Christ is also spoken of as being God’s servant following his ascension
- God continues to be glorified in and through Jesus Christ and his work
- God the Father’s seniority is reflected by things he has done for Jesus Christ
- Note: God’s will is the prominent will in Scripture – sovereign in all the world, throughout the ages
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4. The Holy Spirit -
I. General -
a) The Holy Spirit of God - The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God . . .
- . . . God refers to the Holy Spirit as his Spirit
- The Holy Spirit is correlated with God's presence
- The Holy Spirit is from God
- God and the Holy Spirit know each other’s mind
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b) The Holy Spirit's Being - The Holy Spirit is everywhere
- The Holy Spirit is eternal
- The Holy Spirit has great power . . .
- . . . and the Holy Spirit can enable people to do great things
- The Holy Spirit has great wisdom and knowledge . . .
- . . . The Holy Spirit even has knowledge of the future
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c) The Holy Spirit's Personhood - The Holy Spirit is distinguished from God and Jesus Christ
- The Holy Spirit has a mind
- The Holy Spirit is referred to with personal pronouns
- The Holy Spirit has personal characteristics
- The Holy Spirit communicates . . .
- . . . and the Holy Spirit interacts in other ways
- Note: Like a person, the Holy Spirit can be treated wrongly
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II. God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit -
a) Mutual Association - God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are very closely associated
- The Holy Spirit is identified with God . . .
- . . . and the Holy Spirit is identified with Jesus Christ
- The Holy Spirit is described as both the Spirit of God and the Spirit of Jesus Christ
- God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit work together in unity of purpose . . .
- . . . Most prominently, they work together in saving people
- Note: Possible references to God in plural form
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b) Mutual Divine Attributes - Omnipresence – God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are everywhere
- Omnipotence – they each have infinite, sovereign power
- Omniscience – they each have complete knowledge
- Divine glory
- Eternal existence
- Holiness
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c) Mutual Divine Roles - God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are each ascribed a primary role in creation
- They each give spiritual or eternal life
- They each sanctify God's people
- They each are constantly with God’s people, living in them
- They each strengthen and empower God’s people
- They each guide and teach God’s people
- They each give God’s people joy and peace
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5. Angels, Satan and Demons -
I. Angels -
a) Attributes of Angels - Angels have human-like features, but are very awesome in appearance
- Angels have wings and can fly
- Angels are very powerful
- Angels have great wisdom and knowledge – but their knowledge is limited
- Angels can communicate and interact with others
- Angels have a will and emotions – notably joy
- Angels are holy – but not perfect
- Further attributes of angels
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b) Angels and God - Angels are with God, surrounding him and even standing in his presence
- Angels worship God and Jesus Christ
- Angels serve God . . .
- . . . Angels carry out judgments of God
- Angels serve Jesus Christ
- Note: "The angel of the Lord" is identified with God
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c) Angels and God's People - Angels help and care for God’s people
- Examples of angels, sent by God, saving God’s people
- Angels give God’s people messages, such as instructions
- Angels also give messages about future events
- Note: Angels played a role in the introduction of the Mosaic Law
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d) Further Teaching about Angels - Angels are very important
- There are different kinds and ranks of angels
- There are thousands upon thousands of angels
- Angels reside in heaven
- Angels are not to be worshiped
- Other teachings about angels
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II. Satan and Demons -
a) Satan's Evilness - Satan is evil – and is opposed to God’s kingdom
- Satan is opposed to Jesus Christ
- Satan is deceitful . . .
- . . . Those who follow Satan likewise are deceitful
- Note: Possible references to Satan’s original state and his fall
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b) Satan's Power - Satan is very powerful
- Satan has great power and authority in the world
- Satan works in and through unbelievers
- Satan is not as powerful as God . . .
- . . . and Satan is not as powerful as Jesus Christ
- Note: Satan stands condemned
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c) Satan's Work against God’s People - Satan schemes and fights against God’s people
- Satan tempts God’s people . . .
- . . . and Satan can lead God’s people astray
- Satan can afflict God’s people
- Satan can only tempt and afflict as God permits
- Satan accuses God’s people before God
- Note: Satan hurled down from heaven to the earth
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d) Demons - Demons are evil and powerful spiritual beings
- Demons are aligned with Satan
- Demons are deceitful, propagating what is false
- Demons can possess people . . .
- . . . Demons can cause people they possess much harm
- Demons both fear and have to submit to God and Jesus Christ
- Demons face eternal punishment
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B. God and the World: Basics -
6. God's Creation -
I. General -
a) God Made All Things - God has made all things
- God made the earth . . .
- . . . God made the heavens as well as the earth
- Along with making the earth and the heavens, God made everything in them
- God made light, alongside the darkness
- God made the sky
- God made land and sea – partitioning the land off from the sea
- God made vegetation
- God made the sun, moon and stars
- God made all creatures and people
- Note: All that God makes is good
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b) God Maintains Creation - Every creature's life is dependent on God
- God provides food for all creatures
- God sends rain on the earth, making it productive
- God’s provision of rain and food is abundant . . .
- . . . God’s provision satisfies his creation
- God regulates all aspects of the weather
- God controls the cycle of day and night
- God controls the seasons
- God regulates and maintains the other aspects of nature
- Note: God made the earth and all creation to last
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c) How God Made and Maintains Creation - God made all things with his wisdom
- God made all things with his power
- God made and maintains all things by his word or command
- God made and sustains all things through Jesus Christ
- The Holy Spirit played a role in creation – and still does
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d) Implications of God Being Creator - God is the Father of all things, notably of all people
- God is sovereign over all things
- All things belong to God
- All things exist for God
- Creation attests to God's greatness and glory
- Creation attests to God’s power
- Creation and God’s control over it show his power and wisdom to be incomparable . . .
- . . . God made this point very clear to Job
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II. God's Creation of People -
a) Life and Death - God creates people . . .
- . . . Children ultimately come from God
- God creates the various aspects of people's beings
- God gives people life and breath
- Human life is of great value
- People’s lives are very brief
- Each person is destined to die . . .
- . . . All people die no matter who or what they are
- Once a person dies, they do not return
- Note: Blood signifies life – and a person’s life is taken by the shedding of their blood
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b) The Human Spirit - God has made people with a spirit
- The spirit is distinguished from one's body
- The spirit and the soul are closely associated – along with one’s "heart"
- The spirit and soul are at the core of one’s being . . .
- . . . They embody and are central to one’s state of mind – as often depicted in hardship
- The spirit and soul are linked with one’s emotions
- The spirit and soul are linked with one’s desires
- The spirit is involved in one’s thinking
- The spirit is fundamental to one’s attitude and actions
- People are dead without their spirit
- People’s spirits and souls exist after death
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c) The Uniqueness of People - God has made people in his own image
- People have an able mind, with which to think and reason intelligently . . .
- . . . People can make judgments
- People have the moral capacity to know good from evil and right from wrong . . .
- . . . People can choose between good and evil
- People are of much more value than other creatures
- God has made people ruler over all other creatures
- People are to care for other creatures
- People are to act responsibly towards all creation
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d) Epilogue: God's Self-Revelation to People - People cannot in themselves perceive or know God
- God reveals himself to people
- God reveals himself by what he does
- God’s creation of the world and heavens perpetually evidence and reveal God to all people . . .
- . . . God’s ongoing control over nature likewise testifies to him
- God is revealed in his acts of judgment and of salvation
- God is revealed and known through Jesus Christ
- Note: God reveals his plans and will
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7. God's Sovereignty -
I. God's Supreme Authority -
a) The Lord Is God – the Only God - The Lord is God
- The Lord is God of heaven and earth
- The Lord is God of all people
- The Lord is the true and living God . . .
- . . . He is the one and only God
- God's deeds show that he is the only God . . .
- . . . God’s deeds show that he is indeed the Lord
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b) God Reigns Supreme - God reigns . . .
- . . . God is enthroned in heaven
- God rules over all – over all the earth
- God rules over all nations and authorities
- God will reign forever
- God will impose his absolute rule on all
- Note: All things belong to God
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c) God Has Power over All Things - God has power over the forces of evil
- God has power over death, to raise the dead
- God has power over all aspects of nature, including: the earth; the skies; . . .
- . . . and the waters
- God has power over nations . . .
- . . . God can devastate or destroy nations
- God has power over rulers and can bring them down . . .
- . . . Examples of God bringing rulers down
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d) God Defeats His Enemies - No one can effectively oppose God . . .
- . . . The plans of God's enemies cannot succeed against him
- God takes vengeance on his enemies
- God repays his enemies for their deeds
- God destroys his enemies
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e) God Fulfills His Plans - God carries out his purposes and plans
- God's plans were determined long ago – from the beginning
- When the time comes, God’s plans are promptly fulfilled
- God does not change his purposes and plans . . .
- . . . though God may have reason to alter something he did – or relent from something he proposed
- No one can thwart God’s purposes and plans . . .
- . . . Nor can anyone alter what God does
- God works everything for his purposes and plans
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II. God's Control over the World -
a) God Has Control over Evil - God exerts control over evil
- God can use evil
- God can use evil to fulfill his purposes
- God can use evil and wrongdoing to punish
- God can use evil for the benefit of people
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b) God Has Control over Nature - God directs nature
- Nature serves God
- God can control the elements of nature to bring plentiful provision . . .
- . . . and God can control nature so as to bring depravation
- God has control over all creatures
- God can perform miracles of nature . . .
- . . . God can miraculously use nature for his purposes
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c) God Has Control over the Nations - God is in control of the nations
- God has been in control of the nations throughout history
- God appoints times for events affecting the nations
- God has control over the outcome of conflicts between nations
- God can thwart the plans of the nations
- God establishes all ruling authorities
- God has control over rulers . . .
- . . . God can use rulers in order to accomplish his purposes
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d) God Has Control over Each Person - God has control over people's hearts and minds
- God has control over people’s actions . . .
- . . . Despite people’s plans, their steps are directed by God
- God controls the good and bad things that happen to people
- God brings people down and exalts others
- God determines the length of people’s lives . . .
- . . . and God finishes people’s lives
- Note: The life of every person is in God’s hands
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e) Addendum: God's Early Dealings with Humankind - God’s creation of the first people, in an ideal environment
- Humankind’s original sin and the judgment – including death and expulsion from the Garden of Eden
- The flood and Noah: Escalated sin and judgment; righteousness and salvation
- The Tower of Babel: Sinful pride and the dispersion of humankind
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8. God's Word -
I. General -
a) What God's Word Comprises - God’s word primarily is Scripture
- God’s word includes his laws
- God’s word includes his covenants and promises
- God’s word includes his prophecies
- God’s word includes the gospel, proclaimed by his people
- Note: Jesus Christ is the Word of God
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b) God's Communication of His Word - God has given his word by the Holy Spirit . . .
- . . . Further mention of Scripture coming by the Holy Spirit
- God gave his law through Moses
- God has spoken through prophets
- God has spoken through visions and dreams
- God’s word was spoken by Jesus Christ
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c) Characteristics of God's Word - God’s word is holy, righteous and good
- God’s word is true . . .
- . . . and what God’s word foretells comes true
- God’s word is living and active
- God’s word is powerful
- God’s word is everlasting
- Note: God’s word surpasses everything of this world
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d) Functions of God's Word (I): General - God’s word makes known his commands
- God’s word makes known his plans
- God’s word plays a role in salvation
- God’s word plays a role in sanctification
- God’s word helps people avoid sin
- God’s word helps people learn to fear God
- God’s word encourages people
- Other roles of God’s word
- Note: God acts by his word
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e) Functions of God's Word (II): Blessings - Life . . .
- . . . including spiritual and eternal life
- Light
- Knowledge
- Wisdom
- Hope
- Joy
- Freedom
- Note: Rejecting and not keeping God’s word brings his judgment
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II. Key Old Testament Covenants -
a) God's Covenant with Abraham - God called Abraham to go to the land of Canaan – and Abraham went
- Subsequently, God made a covenant with Abraham, promising him: countless descendants; the land of Canaan; . . .
- . . . and that all peoples on earth would be blessed through Abraham
- Abraham believed God, and God credited this to him as righteousness
- God’s covenant required Abraham to obey God, which he did
- God confirmed the covenant and promises with Abraham’s descendants
- Note: God made circumcision the sign of the covenant with Abraham and his descendants
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b) God's Making of Israel as His People - God made the nation of Israel . . .
- . . . The people of Israel were Abraham’s descendants
- God redeemed the Israelites out of Egypt to take them as his own . . .
- . . . The Passover and God’s deliverance of Israel from Egypt
- God chose Israel out of all the nations to be his holy people . . .
- . . . Israel was God’s chosen servant
- Foreigners were accepted into Israel and able to worship God
- Note: The tribes of Israel
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c) God's Covenant with Israel and the Law - God made a covenant with Israel, based on his law . . .
- . . . If the Israelites obeyed God, then they would be his people and he would be their God
- The core of the law: The Ten Commandments
- The whole law included: religious laws; . . .
- . . . judicial laws; and social laws
- By obeying all the law, the Israelites would be holy
- By obeying all the law, the Israelites would be righteous and live
- By obeying, the Israelites would have life and prosperity in the promised land
- If the Israelites disobeyed the law and broke the covenant, there would be dreadful consequences . . .
- . . . Their destruction would culminate in exile from the promised land
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d) The Ark of the Covenant and God's Presence - The ark of the covenant – which contained the stone tablets of the covenant
- The ark signified God’s presence amongst the people
- Signifying God’s presence, the ark was where God would meet with Moses and the people
- The ark brought great power and dreadful effects
- The ark was kept in the Most Holy Place, shielded by a veil – in the tabernacle and later the temple . . .
- . . . Access into the Most Holy Place and the whole sanctuary was greatly restricted
- Containing the ark, the tabernacle and later the temple signified God’s presence . . .
- . . . Thus the temple became the focus of worship and prayer to God
- Note: God’s presence amongst the Israelites was dependant on their continued obedience
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e) God's Faithfulness to His Covenant with Israel - God faithfully led Israel through the desert and provided for them
- God promised that none of Israel’s enemies would withstand it – which he fulfilled
- Conquering its inhabitants, God gave the promised land of Canaan to Israel – as an inheritance . . .
- . . . Description of the promised land: Its goodness and location
- God duly cared for Israel in the promised land
- So, God was faithful to his covenants and promises with Abraham and Israel
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f) God's Dealings and Covenant with David - David was chosen and anointed by God, as ruler over Israel
- David reigned over Israel, as a powerful and righteous king – undergirded by God . . .
- . . . However, David was not free of sin and trouble during his reign
- God’s covenant with David, promising that David’s royal dynasty would last forever
- The royal line of any king descended from David would continue if he obeyed God as David did
- Note: God chose Jerusalem, David’s city, as his dwelling place . . .
- . . . As such, God’s temple was built in Jerusalem – by Solomon, David’s son
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9. The Problem of Sin -
I. General -
a) What Sin Is - Sin is breaking God's law
- Even unintentionally breaking God’s law is sin
- Doing evil and acting wickedly is sin
- All wrongdoing is sin
- Not doing what we should do is sin
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b) Sin Is against God - Sin is action against God
- Even acting wrongfully against other people is sinning against God
- Sin is rebellion against God
- For sin involves: turning away from God and his commands; . . .
- . . . and going our own way
- Sin is hated by God
- God can be grieved by sin
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c) Sin Is Universal - All people have sinned
- No one is righteous before God
- People have a sinful nature . . .
- . . . People have hearts and minds inclined towards evil
- People are led into sin by their sinful nature . . .
- . . . People are led into sin by their corrupt hearts and minds
- Note: God is aware of all sins . . .
- . . . and God remembers sin
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d) Sin's Intrinsic Ill Effects - Shame and disgrace
- Spiritual defilement . . .
- . . . Spiritual uncleanness
- Separation from God . . .
- . . . and spiritual death
- Captivity to sin . . .
- . . . involving enslavement to sin
- Foolishness and spiritual darkness
- Further intrinsic harmful consequences
- Note: Sometimes God "gives people over" to sin
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e) Sin Brings God's Judgment – Ultimately Death - When one sins, one becomes guilty
- God holds one responsible for one’s sin
- Sin makes one subject to God’s wrath
- God’s wrath against sinners is manifested in punishment
- Sin results in physical death – through Adam’s original sin
- Sin brings the prospect of eternal "death"
- Note: Sin can lead to consequences that affect others – notably children . . .
- . . . but it is the one who sins who will die for their sin
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II. The Law's Provision for Israel’s Sin -
a) Offerings for Atonement for Sinners - The law made provision for the offering of a life of an animal, to make atonement for one who had sinned
- The major offerings for making atonement: The burnt offering; . . .
- . . . the sin offering; . . .
- . . . and the guilt offering
- Atonement was also made annually for all of the people
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b) Aspects of Making Offerings for Sin - All offerings were only to be made at the place God chose for his presence amongst his people
- Animals brought as offerings were to be without any blemish
- The sinner laid hands on the offering, identifying the animal with themself
- The blood of the offerings for sin featured in making atonement . . .
- . . . for the life of a creature is in its blood – and as such blood is not to be eaten
- The parts of an offering's body were burnt or eaten
- Note: Procedures for the Day of Atonement, involving the high priest entering the Most Holy Place
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c) The Role of the Priests - God designated Aaron and his descendants as priests . . .
- . . . With their appointment, God is said to have made a covenant with the priests
- The priests were responsible for God's sanctuary, the offerings and teaching the people . . .
- . . . The other Levites were given to the priests to assist them
- The priests made offerings for people when they sinned, to make atonement for them
- The high priest made atonement for Israel as a whole
- The offering of incense by the priests
- Note: Priests and Levites were given parts of the people’s offerings, God being their inheritance
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d) Ceremonial Cleanness - Because God is holy, his people must be holy – which included avoiding uncleanness
- Uncleanness largely came through contact with things that were unclean
- Creatures were designated as either clean or unclean for eating . . .
- . . . Other sources of uncleanness
- Uncleanness would defile God's dwelling place amidst his people – and so required isolation and cleansing
- While a person was unclean they could not participate in worship practices
- Cleansing typically involved washing and a purification period
- Uncleanness often required offerings for atonement
- Note: Spiritual purity is paralleled with cleanness, and sin with uncleanness
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e) Epilogue: Israel's Persistence in Sin - Israel’s sin and rebellion in the wilderness
- Israel’s sin and unfaithfulness during the time of the judges
- Israel’s sinful demand for a king – and the choice of Saul
- Solomon’s unfaithfulness and the consequent division of the kingdom under his son, Rehoboam . . .
- . . . Jeroboam’s subsequent archetypical apostasy in the northern kingdom
- Some kings in Judah did lead the people in godly ways . . .
- . . . but ultimately both kingdoms of Israel failed to keep God’s laws and broke his covenant
- Note: The people polluted and defiled the land by their sin
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10. God's Judgment -
I. Basics -
a) God Is the Judge of the World - God is judge . . .
- . . . God is the judge of the whole earth
- God makes judgments in the world
- God judges nations
- God judges individuals – including rulers
- God judges his own people
- God judges evil spiritual powers
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b) Reasons for God's Judgment - To punish sin and unfaithfulness
- To discipline and cleanse God’s people
- To punish the ungodly . . .
- . . . and to exact just vengeance
- To save God’s people
- To vindicate God’s people
- To reward God’s people
- Note: God’s judgments serve as examples and warnings to others
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c) God's Judgment Is Just - God judges with justice
- God judges righteously
- God does not show favoritism in his judgment
- God judges people with knowledge of all their deeds
- God takes into account thoughts and motives
- God’s judgments are correct
- God judges and repays people according to what they have done
- God repays people’s deeds with fitting recompense
- God gives fair warning of punishment for not obeying him . . .
- . . . Thus God allows for repentance and for punishment to be averted
- Note: In effect, it is people’s own actions that brings God’s punishment on themselves
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d) God's Judgment Reveals God - God makes himself known by his judgment
- God’s judgment shows his might and his sovereignty . . .
- . . . God’s judgment makes known that he is the Lord
- God’s judgment evidences his glory – and also brings him glory
- God’s judgment reveals his holiness
- God’s judgment displays his anger
- Note: God’s restraint of his judgment shows his compassion and love
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II. The Manifestation of God's Judgment -
a) Means of God's Judicial Retribution - Angels
- Nature
- Rulers . . .
- . . . and nations
- God’s own people
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b) Characteristics of God's Judicial Retribution - Awesome power . . .
- . . . and irresistible
- Inescapable
- Terrifying . . .
- . . . causing great grief and anguish
- Horrific consequences . . .
- . . . even complete devastation
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c) The Wicked and God's Pending Judgment - The wicked often prosper
- God shows goodness to the wicked – even their prosperity ultimately comes from him
- Questioning of God’s apparent lack of judgment regarding the wicked
- However, the situation of the wicked is precarious
- God does not leave the guilty unpunished
- In due time God does take action . . .
- . . . God’s silence in the face of wickedness is followed by his judgment
- God destroys the wicked
- The destruction of the wicked is often sudden
- Note: "The day of the Lord" will bring God’s judgment, with its destruction of the wicked
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d) Repayments for the Wicked and the Righteous - The wicked reap what they sow . . .
- . . . The wicked are brought down by their own evil deeds
- In contrast to the wicked, the righteous reap what is good
- God blesses the righteous
- God takes care of the righteous, in contrast to the wicked
- The future of the righteous contrasts with the end of the wicked . . .
- . . . This will be most evident in the afterlife
- The wicked and ungodly are bereft of hope
- Discourses on perils that the wicked typically face
- Note: Further contrasts between the righteous and the wicked
-
e) Epilogue: God's Judgment of Israel – and His Mercy - Many times God called and warned his wayward people, through his prophets
- Eventually God determined to bring destruction on unresponsive Israel
- The temple and Jerusalem were destroyed
- God’s judgment on unfaithful Israel culminated in exile from the promised land
- However, God would not completely destroy Israel . . .
- . . . God promised to spare a remnant of Israel
- God also promised to return people of Israel to the land
- Jews did return to the land – rebuilding the temple and Jerusalem’s walls
- Note: Because God remembers his covenant with Abraham, God cares for and is merciful to Israel
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C. God and the World: Jesus Christ -
11. God's Promised Messiah -
I. The Messiah's Identity -
a) The Promise of a Messiah in OT Scripture - The OT Scriptures speak of a coming anointed one of God, who would have God's Spirit on him . . .
- . . . They describe him as a remarkable chosen servant of God
- The OT promises that such a one would arise as a great ruler of Israel
- The OT says the ruler will bring justice and salvation to the nations
- The OT speaks of the ruler crushing the wicked
- The ruler would be a descendant of King David, in accordance with God’s promise to David
- The OT also says he would suffer and die, for people’s sins – but then be raised and exalted
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b) Jesus Is the Promised Messiah - Jesus Christ is the one chosen and appointed by God
- Jesus Christ is the one anointed by God, with the Holy Spirit . . .
- . . . Jesus is the messianic Holy One of God
- The OT Scriptures testify to Jesus being the Messiah, the Christ
- For the OT speaks of the sufferings and resurrection of the Christ as fulfilled in Jesus . . .
- . . . and the OT speaks of the messianic salvation that would come through Jesus Christ
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c) Messianic Prophecies Fulfilled by Jesus - Prophecies fulfilled in Jesus' birth and early years
- Prophecies fulfilled in Jesus’ life and ministry
- Prophecies fulfilled in Jesus’ rejection and betrayal
- Prophecies fulfilled in Jesus’ death . . .
- . . . Further OT Scriptures fulfilled or reflected in Jesus’ death
- Prophecies fulfilled in Jesus’ resurrection
- Prophecies fulfilled in Jesus’ ascension and exaltation
- Other messianic OT Scriptures applied to Jesus Christ
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d) Further Testimony to Jesus Being the Messiah - Jesus' deeds showed that he is the Messiah, the Christ
- Jesus himself claimed to be the Christ
- Jesus’ followers acknowledged him as the Christ . . .
- . . . and Jesus being the Christ was a central aspect of his followers’ teaching
- Others also acknowledged Jesus as the Christ
- Note: The Christ is understood to be the Son of God
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II. The Messiah's Purpose and Person -
a) Jesus Christ's Mission from God - God sent Jesus Christ into the world
- God sent Jesus to take away sins . . .
- . . . God sent Jesus to save the world
- Jesus came to bring spiritual light into the world . . .
- . . . Jesus came to bring truth
- Jesus came to enable us to know God
- Jesus came to destroy Satan’s power and work
- Further objectives of Jesus Christ’s mission
- Note: Jesus Christ’s mission took place at a time chosen by God . . .
- . . . and aspects of Jesus Christ’s mission occurred at designated or appropriate times
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b) Jesus Christ's Humanity - Jesus Christ became a human being
- Jesus was born, of Mary – after being conceived through the Holy Spirit . . .
- . . . Jesus’ mother Mary was a very godly woman, blessed by God
- Jesus was a descendant of David
- Jesus had family
- Jesus grew from childhood through to adulthood
- Jesus was called a man
- Jesus had a physical body . . .
- . . . and Jesus had physical limitations
- Like all humans, Jesus experienced difficult times – including temptation
- Note: Jesus’ humanity was vital to his mission to save people
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c) Jesus Christ's Personality - Jesus was loving – shown ultimately in him giving up his life
- Jesus was compassionate
- Jesus was meek
- Jesus was gentle and humble – as a servant
- Jesus was good
- Jesus was righteous
- Jesus showed righteous anger and indignation
- Jesus showed great strength of character, being courageous and composed
- Note: Jesus was prepared to associate with and even support notably sinful people
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d) Epilogue: God Works through Jesus Christ - God works in all eras through Jesus Christ, impacting all things everywhere
- God enacts his will in or through Jesus Christ
- God fulfills his promises through Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . Key promises of God have been centered on Jesus Christ
- God saves people through Jesus Christ
- God reconciles people to himself through Jesus Christ
- God gave the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ
- God works in and through his people, through Jesus Christ
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12. Jesus Christ's Mission -
I. God's Enablement of Jesus Christ -
a) Jesus Christ's Authority from God - God granted Jesus sovereign authority
- Jesus had the authority to forgive sins
- Jesus’ teaching had great authority
- Jesus had the authority to state what was required for eternal life
- Jesus had the authority to state what was required to enter God’s kingdom
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b) Jesus Christ's Power from God - God bestowed the Holy Spirit on Jesus, for his mission
- The Holy Spirit empowered Jesus in what he said and did
- Jesus did many miraculous deeds with God’s power . . .
- . . . God would do for Jesus whatever he asked
- Jesus’ deeds led people to glorify God
- Jesus’ deeds validated his claims about himself and God
- Jesus’ deeds led many people to believe in him
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c) Jesus Christ's Knowledge from God - Jesus saw and heard things from God
- Jesus knew everything
- Jesus knew everything about all people . . .
- . . . Jesus even knew people’s thoughts and intentions
- Jesus knew about future events
- Jesus was also filled with wisdom . . .
- . . . Nobody could match Jesus’ wisdom
- Note: Jesus knew God
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d) Jesus Christ's Direction from God - God was with Jesus
- Jesus only did works of God, and God worked through him
- Jesus obeyed God
- Jesus carried out God’s will, doing the work God had given him . . .
- . . . Jesus sought to do God’s will as opposed to his own will
- Jesus spoke what God wanted him to say
- Note: In doing God’s will, Jesus brought glory to God . . .
- . . . and Jesus was glorified by God
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II. Ministry, Death and Resurrection -
a) Jesus Christ's Miracles - Jesus performed miraculous deeds that greatly amazed people
- Jesus delivered people from demons and Satan – demonstrating power over evil
- Jesus delivered people from disease and disorders
- Jesus even raised the dead
- Jesus exercised control over nature, in rescuing and helping people
- Note: Jesus initially did not want his deeds – nor his identity – to be widely known . . .
- . . . but still large crowds came to him from all around
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b) Jesus Christ's Teaching - Jesus was a prophet . . .
- . . . As a prophet, Jesus taught and preached to the people
- Jesus preached the good news of the kingdom of God
- Jesus’ teaching was not his own; what he spoke was from God
- Jesus’ teaching is the truth . . .
- . . . Jesus himself is identified with truth
- Jesus’ teaching was amazing and powerful – leading people to believe in him . . .
- . . . However, many others did not believe Jesus
- Note: Jesus’ use of parables and figurative speech
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c) Jesus Christ's Rejection and Death - Jesus was rejected
- Jesus was despised
- Jesus faced intense opposition, with efforts to kill him
- Jesus’ betrayal and arrest
- The unjust condemnation of Jesus – who was innocent of any charge
- The horrific suffering and death of Jesus
- The events following Jesus’ death and his burial
- Jesus’ suffering and death (and resurrection) were planned . . .
- . . . It was God’s will that Jesus die – for everyone
- Jesus suffered and died willingly
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d) Jesus Christ's Resurrection and Ascension - God raised Jesus from the dead, by his power . . .
- . . . The Holy Spirit is linked to Jesus’ resurrection
- Jesus’ body was not found in his tomb
- Jesus was raised in a bodily form
- Jesus appeared to people after his resurrection
- Jesus was taken up to God in heaven
- Because he had willingly suffered death, God exalted and glorified Jesus Christ
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13. Salvation through Jesus Christ -
I. Salvation from Sin -
a) Jesus Christ's Death as an Offering for Sin - God provided Jesus Christ as an offering for sin
- Jesus Christ died for our sins . . .
- . . . He offered himself to God, as a sacrifice for our sins
- Jesus Christ is the "Lamb" who was sacrificed
- Jesus Christ was an unblemished offering – being without sin
- In his death, Jesus Christ bore our sins
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b) Jesus Christ's Death and Atonement for Sin - Jesus Christ died for us
- Jesus Christ’s sacrifice of himself for us means that our sins can be forgiven . . .
- . . . and that we can therefore be justified and righteous before God
- So through Jesus Christ’s death we can be reconciled to God . . .
- . . . and through Jesus Christ we can have peace with God
- Thus, Jesus Christ saves people from God’s wrath
- Note: Further points about the significance of the shedding of Jesus Christ’s blood
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c) Jesus Christ's Death and Redemption from Sin - Jesus Christ gave himself as a ransom for us, to redeem us from sin
- God’s people have been bought by Jesus Christ’s death . . .
- . . . They have been freed from sin and are now slaves to God – and Jesus Christ
- Jesus Christ’s death sets us free from sin’s control . . .
- . . . and Jesus Christ’s death cleanses us from sin
- Note: Jesus Christ’s death redeems people from the law and its consequences
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d) Jesus Christ's Resurrection and Salvation - Jesus Christ’s resurrection has a key part in people being saved
- Jesus Christ’s resurrection is linked to the forgiveness of sins and justification
- Jesus Christ’s resurrection was essential for our resurrection
- Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection were a triumph over Satan and evil
- Note: Jesus Christ’s resurrection affirmed significant things about him
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II. Salvation for the World -
a) The Savior of the World - God provides salvation through Jesus Christ
- Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world – in conjunction with God . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ realizes salvation and redemption
- We can only be saved through Jesus Christ
- Jesus Christ will bring believers' salvation to completion on his return
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b) Life through Jesus Christ - God provides life through Jesus Christ
- Jesus Christ gives spiritual life
- Jesus Christ gives eternal life
- Through Jesus Christ we can have eternal life as opposed to death
- Jesus Christ saves people from the power of death
- Note: The book of life
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c) Salvation for the Gentiles through Jesus Christ - God has extended his salvation to the Gentiles
- God has provided salvation for the Gentiles through Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ died for all people
- God has made the way of faith in Jesus Christ open to Gentiles as well as Jews – there is no difference
- The gospel about Jesus Christ is preached also to the Gentiles . . .
- . . . Through the gospel Gentiles come to faith
- God has given the Holy Spirit to the Gentiles as well as to Jews
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d) The Gentiles as Part of God's People - Gentiles have been accepted by God as being of his people
- Jesus Christ has made Jews and Gentiles one
- Gentiles have been included in the true "Israel" . . .
- . . . God’s people are now of the heavenly Jerusalem
- Those who have faith are the true, spiritual children of Abraham . . .
- . . . and God’s promise or blessing to Abraham is for all who have faith
- Note: Believing Jews still have a privileged status, amongst God’s people
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e) Epilogue: Jesus Christ's Mission and Israel - Jesus Christ came foremost to Israel . . .
- . . . and the gospel of Christ was first preached to the Jews
- But the Jews largely rejected Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . and many Jews strongly opposed the spreading of the gospel
- The Jews’ negative response to Jesus Christ brought God’s judgment
- God largely rejected the Jews and accepted the Gentiles, due to the Jews rejecting Christ and the gospel . . .
- . . . The Jews’ negative response contrasted with the responsiveness of the Gentiles
- But God has left a faithful remnant of Israel
- Despite Israel’s current state – which has benefited the Gentiles – Israel will be saved
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14. The New Order -
I. Jesus Christ and the Law's Diminished Role -
a) Righteousness Not by Law, but Faith in Jesus Christ - The Mosaic Law cannot bring perfection . . .
- . . . The law only exacerbates the problem of sin
- People are not justified or made righteous by obeying the law – but by faith in Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . This is the way of the righteousness from God, who justifies by faith – not by law
- By faith Abraham was declared righteous and received the promise – and so will all who emulate him
- One's righteous standing is no reason to boast, as it is not due to what one does – but to faith
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b) Salvation by Grace, through Jesus Christ - God chooses and calls people by his grace and mercy, through Jesus Christ – not because of works
- God leads people to respond to him by his grace
- People are justified and made righteous by God's grace, through Jesus Christ – not by law
- People are saved by God’s grace and mercy, through Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . People are saved by God’s grace and mercy rather than by works and the law
- Eternal life is a gift from God, through Jesus Christ
- Note: Jesus Christ’s grace and mercy are integral to salvation
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c) Release from the Law through Jesus Christ - Jesus Christ fully realized what the law had worked towards
- So through Jesus Christ believers have been released from the law
- With Jesus Christ's once and for all sacrifice, there is no longer any need to sacrifice for sin
- The regulations and rituals of the law are no longer applicable . . .
- . . . Believers are released from the food regulations of the law
- Instead of being under the law, believers are under grace and Jesus Christ’s law
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d) The Relevance of the Law - The law is not nullified . . .
- . . . The law is still good
- The primary purpose of the law is to make people aware of sin
- The spiritual and moral commands of the law are still to be obeyed
- The law's principles – such as love, justice and mercy – are of central importance, above its rules
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II. Key Elements of the New Order -
a) God's New Covenant - Prelude: The OT Scriptures speak of God instituting a new covenant with his people – through the Messiah
- The first covenant (with its priesthood and law) was inadequate and superseded by the superior new covenant – through Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . Components of the first covenant were merely a shadow of what was to come in the new covenant
- Jesus Christ’s blood ratified the new covenant
- The new covenant is everlasting
- The new covenant is spiritual – of an internal nature and of the Holy Spirit
- Under the new covenant God’s people know him and are forgiven
- Other contrasting aspects of the new covenant with the old
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b) Jesus Christ as High Priest - Jesus Christ is the high priest of God's people – representing them before God in the superior heavenly sanctuary
- Jesus Christ was appointed by God as high priest forever, in the superior priestly order of Melchizedek
- Previous sacrifices offered by priests were ultimately ineffective in dealing with sin . . .
- . . . As high priest, Jesus Christ sacrificed for sin once and for all
- As high priest, Jesus Christ continues to intercede for God’s people
- Jesus Christ is a high priest who is perfect – but can still identify with his people’s humanity
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c) The Kingdom of God - The kingdom of God came in Jesus Christ's mission
- The kingdom of God will come in all its fullness in the future
- The spiritual nature of the kingdom of God
- The dynamism and power of the kingdom of God
- The great cost of participating in the kingdom of God
- Those who will enter the kingdom of God . . .
- . . . Those to whom the kingdom of God belongs
- Those who will not enter nor inherit the kingdom of God
- Note: The kingdom of God is also the kingdom of Jesus Christ
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d) Jesus Christ as Lord of All - Following his death and resurrection, God exalted Jesus Christ to his right hand . . .
- . . . and God made Jesus Christ Lord of all
- God has given Jesus Christ authority and power over all things
- God has entrusted everything to Jesus Christ – and made him heir of all things
- Jesus Christ has power over all other powers
- Jesus Christ's power extends over death
- In the end, all Jesus Christ’s enemies will be made his footstool – totally conquered
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15. 'The Last Things' -
I. Jesus Christ's Return and the Judgment -
a) Prologue: Judgments Preceding Jesus Christ's Return - The first series of judgments: The seven seals
- The second series of judgments: The seven trumpets
- The third series of judgments: The seven bowls
- The guilt and consequent judgment of "Babylon the Great"
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b) The Timing of Jesus Christ's Return - God has set times for the end of the age and related events . . .
- . . . God has set times for Jesus Christ’s return and subsequent events
- Jesus Christ’s return will be at an unexpected time, while people are living as usual
- Jesus Christ’s return will be preceded by distressful events
- Awesome cosmic events will occur just prior to Jesus Christ’s return
- Jesus Christ’s return is spoken of as being imminent
- Note: The time of Jesus Christ’s return is referred to as "the day of the Lord"
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c) Jesus Christ's Return - Jesus Christ will return with his angels
- Jesus Christ will come in great glory
- On Jesus Christ’s return believers who have died will be resurrected . . .
- . . . and all his followers will be gathered to him
- On Jesus Christ’s return his followers will be rewarded
- On Jesus Christ’s return evil powers will be crushed
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d) The Final Judgment (I): Its Scope and Outcomes - Prelude: There will be a final "day" of God's judgment
- God will judge every person, for all they have done . . .
- . . . All that is hidden will be revealed and judged
- The dead will rise . . .
- . . . They will rise to be judged, and either rewarded with eternal life or be condemned
- Eternal life will be the reward for godliness
- God’s wrath and destruction will be the recompense for ungodliness
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e) The Final Judgment (II): The Process - God has appointed Jesus Christ judge and will judge all people through him
- On his return, Jesus Christ will judge and reward all people according to what they have done . . .
- . . . God's people will be judged and rewarded according to what they have done
- People will have to give an account of themselves
- Those who have believed in Jesus Christ will be saved and have eternal life
- Those who have rejected Jesus Christ – not obeying and doing evil – will be condemned
- What people have known will be taken into account
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f) Jesus Christ's Universal Rule - Prelude: The thousand years
- God will establish the Messiah as ruler over all, forever
- The Messiah will have a universal reign of righteousness and peace
- All nations will turn to God
- All nations will worship God
- All people will acknowledge and submit to Jesus Christ
- God’s people will reign with Jesus Christ
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II. The Afterlife -
a) The New Creation - The present heavens and earth will pass away . . .
- . . . The devastation of the heavens and earth in association with God's judgment of the wicked
- God will create new heavens and a new earth
- God will renew all things
- God’s people will live in the new Jerusalem
- Description of the new Jerusalem
- Note: The new Jerusalem is linked with the renewed Jerusalem prophesied in the OT . . .
- . . . This association is seen in the descriptions of the two cities
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b) Eternal Life - As God raised Jesus Christ from the dead, God will also raise his people
- On Jesus Christ's return, their bodies will be made imperishable, glorious and spiritual – like Christ
- God’s people will be given eternal life
- Eternal life transcends physical death and precludes eternal spiritual death . . .
- . . . There will be no more death for God’s people
- God’s people will have the right to the tree of life and the water of life
- God’s people will have accompanying eternal blessings
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c) The Heavenly State of God's People - God’s people will enter the kingdom of God . . .
- . . . and God’s people will inherit the kingdom
- God’s people will be in heaven . . .
- . . . Heaven is where their reward is kept
- God’s people will be made perfect
- God’s people will have glory
- God’s people will have great joy . . .
- . . . There will be no more sorrow
- Note: The salvation and redemption of God’s people will be fully realized
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d) Being with God - God will dwell with his people
- God's people will see God
- God’s people will be with Jesus Christ
- God’s people will have God’s and Jesus Christ’s names written on them
- God’s people will share in God’s and Jesus Christ’s glory
- God’s people will praise God – and serve him
- Note: The feast in the kingdom of God
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e) The Punishment for the Ungodly - The ungodly face God's wrath . . .
- . . . The ungodly face destruction
- The ungodly will be separated from God and Jesus Christ – shut out from the holy city
- The ungodly will be thrown into fire
- There will be darkness and torment
- The punishment is eternal
- Note: There will be varying degrees of punishment
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D. God and His Own People -
16. The Standing of God's People -
I. Basics -
a) Prologue: God Draws People to Himself - God chooses people (to be his people) . . .
- . . . God chooses people to receive spiritual blessings
- God calls people . . .
- . . . God calls people to the blessings and other aspects of the faith
- God's choice and call were determined before creation
- God’s choice and call are in accordance with his purpose
- God enables people to believe
- God enables people to come to him, in repentance
- Note: God’s mercy and people’s destiny
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b) God's People Belong to God - God’s people belong to him
- They are God’s people . . .
- . . . and God is their God
- God’s people belong to Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . The Father gives his people to Jesus Christ
- God’s people are called and identified by his name and Jesus Christ’s name
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c) God's People Are His Family - Each believer belongs to the household of God
- God is their Father
- God’s people are his children
- As God’s children, they are heirs of God
- God’s people are Jesus Christ’s brothers and sisters
- God’s people are brothers and sisters of each other
- Some of God’s people have parent-child relationships
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d) God's People Are His Church - God’s people form his and Jesus Christ’s church
- Jesus Christ is the church’s Lord and ruler
- The church is God’s temple or house, in which God dwells by his Holy Spirit . . .
- . . . As such, God’s people meet together in his presence
- Being God’s, the church is holy
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II. Being 'in' Jesus Christ -
a) God's People Are 'in' Jesus Christ - God’s people are "in" Jesus Christ
- God’s people are “in” Jesus Christ because of what God has done
- Jesus Christ identifies himself with God’s people
- God’s people live with Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . and Jesus Christ is in his people
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b) The Significance of Being 'in' Jesus Christ - "In" Jesus Christ God's people are saved
- “In” Jesus Christ they have righteousness and are redeemed
- “In” Jesus Christ God’s people are sanctified
- “In” Jesus Christ they are identified with him in his death, resurrection and life – meaning release from sin and the law . . .
- . . . This identification also has other implications – present and future
- “In” Jesus Christ God’s people are given God’s grace
- “In” Jesus Christ God’s people have peace and other spiritual “fruits”
- “In” Jesus Christ God’s people have eternal life
- “In” Jesus Christ they will have glory and other blessings in the afterlife
- Further blessings of being “in” Jesus Christ
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c) God's People Are One Body 'in' Jesus Christ - All believers – including Jews and Gentiles, slaves and free – are one body "in" Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . The church is in fact the body of Christ
- God’s people are many different parts making up one body “in” Jesus Christ
- The church body is built by and “in” Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . and Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the church
- Jesus Christ is the head of the church body
- Jesus Christ is portrayed as the husband of the church
- God fosters unity and peace in the church body
- The church’s unity is linked with it having one God, one Lord and one Spirit
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d) Epilogue: God's People Relate to God through Jesus Christ - Jesus Christ’s death and priesthood have opened the way into God’s presence for God’s people
- God’s people have access to God through Jesus Christ – by the Holy Spirit
- God’s people give thanks and praise to God through Jesus Christ
- God’s people ask the Father for things in Jesus Christ’s "name"
- Further references to God’s people relating to him through Jesus Christ
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17. Keys to God's Interaction -
I. Basics -
a) God Is Always with His People - God and Jesus Christ are with their people
- God and Jesus Christ are always with their people . . .
- . . . God's people are always with God – living in his presence
- God is with his people wherever they go . . .
- . . . God also goes before his people
- God is with his people in trouble
- Being with his people in trouble, God sees them through it
- God and Jesus Christ in fact live in their people . . .
- . . . and God’s people live in him and Jesus Christ
- God’s people are with Jesus Christ even in death
- Note: Examples of people being successful because God was with them
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b) God Knows His People and They Know Him - God and Jesus Christ know their people
- God knows all his people's needs and troubles
- God and Jesus Christ enable their people to know them
- So God’s people know him . . .
- . . . and God’s people know Jesus Christ
- God’s people are friends of him and Jesus Christ
- God’s people have fellowship with him and Jesus Christ
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c) God Loves His People - God loves his people
- God loves his people greatly
- God's love is with his people forever
- God shows his love for his people in delivering them . . .
- . . . and God shows his love for his people in protecting them
- God shows his love in his kindness and blessings to his people
- Jesus Christ loves God’s people – as he showed when he gave his life for them
- Note: God delights and rejoices in his people
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d) God Is Faithful to His People - God is completely faithful to his people
- God is faithful even if his people are unfaithful and do wrong
- God shows his faithfulness in helping and blessing his people
- God faithfully keeps his promises to his people
- God faithfully maintains his covenants with his people forever
- Note: God remembers his people
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e) God Shows Grace to His People - God and Jesus Christ show abundant grace toward their people
- By grace God's people are given spiritual blessings and gifts
- By grace God’s people are entrusted with his work . . .
- . . . By grace God’s people are enabled to do his work
- By grace God’s people are strengthened
- By grace God’s people avoid sin
- Further notes on grace in the lives of God’s people
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II. God's Holy Spirit in His People -
a) God Gives the Holy Spirit to His People - Prelude: Prophecies of God giving his Spirit to his people
- God gives his people his Holy Spirit . . .
- . . . God gives the Holy Spirit to those who believe and obey him
- The Holy Spirit lives in God's people
- Having the Holy Spirit verifies that a person is one of God’s people . . .
- . . . Having the Holy Spirit indicates that God lives in a person
- The Holy Spirit is God’s seal, guaranteeing what is to come
- Examples of people receiving the Holy Spirit
- Examples of people being filled with the Holy Spirit
- Note: The concept of asking for the Holy Spirit
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b) God Works in His People through the Holy Spirit - God saves his people through the Holy Spirit
- God instructs and teaches his people through the Holy Spirit
- God works through his people by the Holy Spirit . . .
- . . . God speaks through his people by the Holy Spirit
- Jesus Christ works amongst God's people through the Holy Spirit . . .
- . . . The Holy Spirit continues Jesus Christ’s work in and through his people
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c) The Holy Spirit Renews God's People - The Holy Spirit brings spiritual life
- The Holy Spirit sanctifies God’s people
- The Holy Spirit gives God’s people love and faith
- The Holy Spirit gives God’s people joy and peace
- The Holy Spirit teaches God’s people . . .
- . . . The Holy Spirit teaches God’s people about all things
- Having the Holy Spirit is linked with having wisdom and knowledge
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d) The Holy Spirit Helps God's People - The Holy Spirit helps each believer
- The Holy Spirit leads God’s people
- The Holy Spirit directs God’s people in doing God’s work
- The Holy Spirit empowers God’s people to do God’s work
- The Holy Spirit has a significant role in what God’s people speak
- God’s people worship and pray by the Holy Spirit
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18. God's Transformation of His People -
I. General -
a) God Makes His People Spiritually Alive - God's people have spiritual life
- They have passed from their former state of spiritual death to spiritual life
- In union with Jesus Christ, their sinful selves have "died" and they are now spiritually alive
- God’s people are spiritually reborn of God . . .
- . . . They are born again of the Holy Spirit and through God’s word
- God’s people are a new creation
- Note: God’s promise of a new or renewed heart and spirit – so that his people will be committed to him
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b) God Makes His People Holy - God makes his people holy . . .
- . . . God's people are a holy people
- God’s people are primarily made holy through Jesus Christ’s sacrifice
- God’s people are being made like God . . .
- . . . God’s people are being transformed to be like Jesus Christ
- Note: God’s people are his workmanship
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c) God Teaches His People - God teaches his people
- God teaches his people how to live
- God enables his people to know the truth
- God makes known things about himself to his people . . .
- . . . and God makes known other things of his to his people
- God reveals unknown and concealed things to his people
- Note: God's word and truth dwell in his people – but not in others
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d) God Disciplines His People (I): Reasons - When his people turn to sin, God punishes and disciplines them . . .
- . . . By punishment and discipline God causes his people to seek him again
- God disciplines his people to rid them of sin
- God disciplines his people to save them from sin's consequences
- However, hard times from God are not always due to sin
- God also tests his people to show if they will obey him and remain faithful
- Further reasons why God disciplines and tests his people
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e) God Disciplines His People (II): Insights - God disciplines his people as his children, who he loves
- God's discipline is characterized by faithfulness and justice
- God’s punishment of his people is warranted . . .
- . . . and God’s punishment is often less than what his people’s sins really deserve
- God’s discipline and testing are temporary . . .
- . . . Due to his mercy and compassion, God limits his people’s punishment
- God’s discipline and testing can be intense, but God brings his people through
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II. Spiritual Attributes -
a) Love, Faith and Hope - God gives his people love . . .
- . . . God enables his people to love
- God gives his people faith
- God gives his people hope – especially by what he has done through Jesus Christ
- God's promises give his people hope
- God’s promises to his people include promises for the present life . . .
- . . . and promises for the afterlife – notably eternal life
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b) Peace - God gives his people peace
- God provides his people with rest
- Jesus Christ gives his people peace and rest
- God's people have great peace
- God’s people have peace and rest even in death
- Note: God is the God of peace
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c) Joy - God gives joy to his people
- God gives his people fullness of joy
- The joy is present even in trouble
- Promises of God replacing sorrow with joy
- Note: Joy strengthens people
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d) Wisdom and Knowledge - God gives his people wisdom
- God gives his people knowledge
- God's people are given spiritual sight . . .
- . . . They have spiritual light instead of spiritual darkness
- Note: The exceptional wisdom and knowledge that God gave to Solomon, Daniel and others
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19. God's Care of His People -
I. God's Saving of His People -
a) God's Capacity to Save His People - God is able to save his people – no matter what the circumstances
- God has mighty power to save his people . . .
- . . . God can perform awesome deeds to save his people
- God does not need to use any other means but himself to save his people
- Note: Salvation belongs to God – for he is the only savior
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b) God Saves His People – from All Things - God is the Savior of his people . . .
- . . . God is the one who their salvation is in
- God saves his people out of all troubles
- God saves his people from all their enemies
- On delivering them, God may even honor or exalt his people
- Note: God is the light of his people, giving them light . . .
- . . . God gives his people light even amidst darkness
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c) God Redeems His People - God is the Redeemer of his people . . .
- . . . God redeems his people
- God redeems his people from enemies
- God sets his people free from suffering and things that imprison
- God will redeem his people from death
- Note: God vindicates his people
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d) God Helps His People against Enemies - God helps his people in need, including against enemies
- God consistently helps his people in need
- God helps his people by upholding them and delivering them from enemies
- God helps his people defeat enemies
- For God fights for his people, giving victory over enemies . . .
- . . . as God fought for the Israelites in their conquest of Canaan
- God enables his people to overcome all that is in the world, including Satan
- Further examples of God saving his people from enemies
- Further promises of God saving his people from enemies
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e) God Is Revealed in Saving His People - God's saving of his people makes known his salvation to the nations
- God’s saving of his people makes known that he is the Lord – the only God
- God’s saving of his people reveals God’s great power
- God’s saving of his people reveals God’s glory
- God’s saving of his people evidences God’s love and faithfulness
- God’s saving of his people shows God’s holiness and righteousness . . .
- . . . God’s righteousness is closely associated with his salvation
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II. God's Preservation of His People -
a) God Meets His People's Needs - God cares for his people
- God sustains his people
- God meets his people’s physical needs . . .
- . . . God satisfies his people’s physical needs
- God meets their physical needs even in harsh circumstances . . .
- . . . Further specific examples
- God satisfies his people’s spiritual hunger and thirst
- God will provide for all his people’s needs – they will not lack anything
- Note: God is his people’s portion
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b) God Strengthens His People - God is the strength of his people
- God strengthens his people
- God strengthens his people when they are weak . . .
- . . . God restores and renews his people
- God strengthens his people in the face of adversity
- God strengthens them spiritually, until Jesus Christ's return
- God encourages his people
- God heals his people
- God also supports and upholds his people . . .
- . . . God even carries his people
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c) God Protects His People (I): General - God preserves his people
- God protects his people from enemies
- God preserves his people's lives . . .
- . . . God keeps his people safe and secure
- God protects his people from all evil, including Satan
- God and Jesus Christ keep their people as their own – until the end
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d) God Protects His People (II): Depictions - God shields his people
- God surrounds his people
- God is a refuge for his people
- God is a rock for his people
- God guards and keeps his people . . .
- . . . God watches over his people, keeping his eyes on them
- God is a shepherd to his people . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ is a shepherd to his people
- Further depictions of God's protection
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e) Epilogue: God's Care of the Needy - The needy experience hardship . . .
- . . . The needy are often mistreated by the wicked and made to suffer
- However, God rescues the needy
- God secures justice for the needy
- God protects and is a refuge for the needy
- God provides for the needy
- Other ways God cares for the needy
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20. God's Plans for His People -
I. General -
a) God Has Plans and Purposes for His People - God has plans and purposes for his people
- God's plans and purposes include work for his people to do
- God’s plans and purposes are not dependent upon a person’s background
- Further examples of God appointing people to a specific role
- In spite of his people’s troubles, God will fulfill his plans and purposes for them
- God may actually use his people’s troubles in fulfilling his purposes for them . . .
- . . . God may even initiate seemingly bad things to fulfill his purposes for his people
- Note: The plans of God’s people are subject to his will
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b) God Works through His People (I): General - God works through his people
- God works through his people in the spreading of the gospel
- God purifies his people, making them holy, to do his work . . .
- . . . God effectively makes them priests, to serve him
- God sends his people to do his work . . .
- . . . and God moves his people to do his work
- God works with his people, helping them
- God makes it possible for his people to do the work
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c) God Works through His People (II): Empowerment - God empowers his people to do his work
- God equips his people for the work . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ gave authority to his disciples and other followers for God's work
- God strengthens his people for the work
- God helps and empowers them to do his work even if they feel inadequate . . .
- . . . God’s power works through his people in their weaknesses
- God’s power for his people is great
- Note: The empowerment to perform miracles
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d) God Guides His People - God guides his people . . .
- . . . God leads his people
- God guides his people always
- God guides his people in difficult circumstances
- God commands and directs his people in doing his work
- Examples of divine guidance through dreams and visions
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II. God's Plans for Israel -
a) Return to the Land - God will gather the remnant of exiled Israel from the nations and bring them home
- God will aid them on the journey home and the nations also will assist
- Judah and Israel will be reunited in the land – and share in God's blessings
- The people of Israel will possess the land – forever
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b) Physical Renewal - Israel will be physically restored
- The land will be blessed and fruitful
- Israel's population will be markedly increased, taking up more area
- Joy will accompany God’s renewal of Israel . . .
- . . . Israel’s sorrow will be no more
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c) Deliverance and Everlasting Peace - God will save Israel
- God will take vengeance on those who persecute Israel
- Siege, suffering and deliverance of Jerusalem – followed by judgment on its attackers
- Israel will defeat its enemies
- Israel will greatly rejoice in God's salvation
- God will protect and care for Israel
- The Davidic Messiah will reign over Israel
- The Messiah will rule forever over Israel, in righteousness and peace
- Israel will have peace – and no fear – forever . . .
- . . . Never again will Israel be invaded or destroyed
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d) Spiritual Renewal - God will cleanse Israel of all impurities and sin . . .
- . . . and God will forgive the people's sins
- Israel will be holy
- Israel will be righteous
- The people of Israel will be given God’s Spirit
- The people of Israel will be given spiritual understanding
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e) A Renewed Relationship with God - Israel will turn to God
- Israel will worship God – and trust in him
- Israel will be devoted to God
- God will be as a husband to Israel, renewing his relationship with her
- The people of Israel will be God's people and he will be their God
- God will dwell in Jerusalem, living among his people forever
- Note: References to a temple of God in Jerusalem in the future
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f) Exaltation and Glorification - Israel will be dominant among the nations, who will serve it
- The nations will know and acknowledge God's presence in and care of Israel
- The nations will come to Jerusalem to worship God . . .
- . . . and nations will be established with Israel as God’s people
- The nations will bring their wealth to Jerusalem, as the city of God
- God himself will exceedingly bless Israel
- God will glorify Israel
- Israel’s glory will primarily be God, with the glory of his presence
- Israel’s renewal will bring God glory
- Note: Israel will have no more shame
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II. What to Do -
E. Relating to God -
21. Being Right with God -
I. Getting Right with God -
a) God's Invitation - God and Jesus Christ invite all people to come to them and be saved . . .
- . . . For God wants all people to be saved, making salvation open to everyone
- God wants us to earnestly seek him – and so find him
- We have the choice of whether or not to respond to God and Jesus Christ
- We must believe in God and what he says
- We need to be open to believing and responding to God
- Now is the time to seek God and to respond to him
- Other preliminary points to consider
- Note: Apart from God, life is pointless
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b) Repentance - We must repent
- Confess your sins . . .
- . . . and turn from sinful ways
- In turning from sin, do what is good and right . . .
- . . . and turn to God
- Repentance is required for the forgiveness of sins
- Repentance leads to life
- Repentance leads to spiritual enlightenment
- Not repenting will result in judgment and eternal punishment
- Note: The great rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents
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c) Belief in Jesus Christ (I): General - Believe in Jesus Christ
- Believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God
- Further key things to know and believe about Jesus Christ
- Believing in Jesus Christ is integral to believing in God . . .
- . . . One's response to Jesus Christ is one’s response to God, who sent him
- Superficial belief is not enough . . .
- . . . We are to both believe and repent
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d) Belief in Jesus Christ (II): Reasons to Believe - Jesus Christ's words and knowledge
- Jesus Christ’s deeds
- Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection
- Testimonies about Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . God himself testified to Jesus and his claims
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e) Belief in Jesus Christ (III): Outcomes - We are forgiven of our sins and purified
- We are granted righteousness and justified before God
- We are saved
- We have eternal life
- We become a child of God
- We are given God's Holy Spirit
- Other results of believing in Jesus Christ
- Those who do not believe in Jesus Christ are condemned and do not have life . . .
- . . . Further implications of not believing in Jesus Christ
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f) Reasons for Assurance - God's word, including his promises
- Jesus Christ’s death and his ministry in his risen life
- Having the Holy Spirit
- Obeying God and doing what is right
- Loving other Christians
- Further reasons
- Note: God’s people are free from condemnation
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II. Staying Right with God -
a) The Need to Obey God - Obedience accompanies belief and faith
- Obedience leads to righteousness
- Obedience leads to holiness and purity
- Obedience brings one into a close relationship with God and Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . God and Jesus Christ are with those who obey – they in God and he in them
- Obedience and doing God's will are critical for salvation
- Obedience and doing God’s will lead to eternal life
- Not obeying God ultimately ends in eternal destruction
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b) The Need for Good Deeds - We are to persistently do good deeds
- True faith involves good deeds . . .
- . . . One's Christianity should be proven by one’s deeds
- Good deeds are critical for salvation and eternal life
- Note: Our good deeds or works do not earn righteousness and salvation, which are by grace
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c) Living Free of the Law and Sin – by the Spirit - Our freedom from the Mosaic Law does not permit us to sin . . .
- . . . In fact, sinning results in enslavement to sin
- We have been freed from the law to live by the Holy Spirit
- Instead of living by the sinful nature, live by the Holy Spirit . . .
- . . . and live in God's grace
- Living by the Spirit brings life – in contrast to living by the sinful nature and to the law
- Note: Inner righteousness and right attitudes are needed, rather than mere compliance with rules
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d) Epilogue: Living 'in' Jesus Christ - Live "in" Jesus Christ
- Remain “in” Jesus Christ
- We live “in” Jesus Christ – and he in us – by faith . . .
- . . . and by holding to his teachings
- Speak “in” Jesus Christ
- Act towards others “in” Jesus Christ
- Do God's work “in” Jesus Christ
- Rejoice and take pride “in” Jesus Christ
- Further aspects of living “in” Jesus Christ
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22. Having Faith in God -
I. Faith and Hope -
a) Have Faith in God - Have faith in God and Jesus Christ
- Live by faith
- Pursue faith – and grow in faith
- Have strong faith . . .
- . . . For faith is tested
- Persist in faith
- Reasons to trust in God: God's steadfast love; . . .
- . . . God’s power; . . .
- . . . and God’s past deliverance
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b) What Faith in God Involves Doing - To have faith in God and Jesus Christ: believe in them and what they say; . . .
- . . . and trust in God
- Have faith that God will fulfill what he promises
- Have faith that God will care for you
- Have faith that God and Jesus Christ will do what you ask
- Note: Faith involves believing in what we do not see
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c) The Importance of Faith (I): Godly Living - By faith we stand firm
- Faith produces obedience to God
- Faith produces work in service to God
- Faith is vital to prayer, for God to grant requests
- If we have faith nothing will be impossible
- Further points on the importance of faith in living the Christian life
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d) The Importance of Faith (II): Blessings - By faith we remain in a right relationship with God and Jesus Christ
- Like Abraham, by faith we receive what God has promised . . .
- . . . By faith we will receive the promises and salvation of the afterlife
- By faith our needs are met
- Trusting in God leads to his deliverance and protection
- Trusting in God brings joy and peace
- Further blessings of trusting in God
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e) Have Hope in God - Put your hope in God and Jesus Christ
- Put your hope in God's promises
- Set your hope on God’s timely care
- Set your hope on Jesus Christ’s return and what will follow
- Reasons to have hope in God: God’s steadfast love and faithfulness; . . .
- . . . and the deeds of God, our Savior
- Other godly sources of hope
- Further general points on hope
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f) The Importance of Hope - Hope is vital for faith
- Hope helps us remain firm
- Further ways hope is important for living the Christian life
- Note: The depressing plight of a lack of hope
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II. What Not to Do -
a) Do Not Lack Faith - Do not be lacking in faith . . .
- . . . Do not doubt
- Do not test or question God
- Lack of faith is associated with not obeying God
- Lack of faith can have other detrimental effects
- Lack of faith can even bring God's punishment
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b) Do Not Be Afraid (I): Instructions - Do not be afraid . . .
- . . . Do not be afraid or dismayed
- Do not be afraid – have faith in God and Jesus Christ, trusting in them
- Do not be afraid – be confident and bold
- Do not be afraid – be strong and courageous . . .
- . . . Look to God and Jesus Christ for your strength
- Do not even be afraid of death
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c) Do Not Be Afraid (II): Reasons - God is far more powerful than our enemies
- God is always with his people
- God helps his people
- God saves his people
- God is a refuge for his people, protecting them
- God's promised blessings
- Further reasons to not be afraid
- Note: Being afraid has grave consequences
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d) Do Not Worry - Do not worry – trust God with your concerns . . .
- . . . Ask God to provide for your needs
- Do not worry about the cares of this life for God will provide; focus instead on things of God
- The futility and dangers of worrying about the cares of this life
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e) Do Not Trust in Other Things - Do not trust in other people, but rather trust in God . . .
- . . . People are not worth trusting in
- Do not trust in yourself
- Do not trust in riches
- Do not trust in worldly power
- Do not trust in wickedness
- Do not trust in idols
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23. Loving, Fearing and Obeying God -
I. Loving and Fearing God -
a) Love God - Love God . . .
- . . . Love Jesus Christ
- Love and treasure God's word
- Love for God and Jesus Christ is shown by obeying them
- Love for them is linked with loving and caring for other Christians
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b) The Importance of Loving God - Loving God is of the utmost importance
- God and Jesus Christ love those who love them
- God cares for those who love him
- Various spiritual blessings from loving God and Jesus Christ
- Blessings in the afterlife from loving God
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c) Fear God - Fear and be in awe of God
- Fear God to the extent that you tremble before him . . .
- . . . and tremble at God's word
- Do not fear anyone or anything but God
- Further examples of people fearing God
- Note: God’s people should not live in fear of his punishment
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d) Why God Should Be Feared - God's surpassing greatness and sovereignty
- God’s great deeds . . .
- . . . including God’s creative work and control over nature
- God’s anger and judgment . . .
- . . . Ominous commands to be silent before God in the face of his judgment
- God’s holiness
- God’s love and forgiveness
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e) The Importance of Fearing God (I): Godly Living - Fearing God is closely associated with obeying him
- Fear of God is associated with righteous living
- Fearing God compels one to avoid sin and evil
- Fearing God and Jesus Christ ensures we deal rightly with others
- Not fearing God is linked with ungodliness – and the consequences
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f) The Importance of Fearing God (II): Blessings - God delivers and protects those who fear him
- Fear of God leads to life . . .
- . . . along with physical and material blessings
- Fear of God is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge
- Further present-day blessings of fearing God
- Future blessings for those who fear God
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II. Obeying God -
a) Obey God - Keep God's commands
- Do all that God commands
- Obey God always – forever
- Do God’s will . . .
- . . . Do what pleases God
- Obey Jesus Christ
- We should obey God because he is our God . . .
- . . . It is no good expressing commitment to God and Jesus Christ without obeying them
- We should obey God and Jesus Christ because of the great things they have done for us
- Note: Implications of not obeying God
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b) Learn God's Commands – and All His Word - Learn God’s commands
- Ask God to teach you his ways and commands
- Persistently read and study God’s commands – and all of God’s word
- Listen carefully and pay attention to God’s word and commands
- Listen carefully to Jesus’ teaching
- Pay attention to all Christian teaching
- Receive and believe God’s word
- Note: Not listening to God and his word has ill consequences
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c) How to Obey God - Do what you learn of God's and Jesus Christ’s word . . .
- . . . Do not just listen to God’s word
- Ask God to help you follow his ways and commands
- Submit yourself to God
- Obey God wholeheartedly
- Delight in God’s commands
- Be careful to obey God
- Note: God’s and Jesus Christ’s commands are not too difficult or burdensome
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d) Blessings of Obeying God - General promises of blessing
- God's and Jesus Christ’s love
- God’s help
- The realization of God’s promises
- Peace and rest
- Other present-day spiritual blessings
- Future blessings
- Note: Ill consequences of not obeying God
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e) Epilogue: Follow Jesus Christ - Follow Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . Be a disciple of Jesus Christ
- Follow Jesus Christ's example
- Follow Jesus Christ’s example of love and service of others
- Further aspects of Jesus Christ’s example to follow
- Make Jesus Christ your Lord . . .
- . . . Live for Jesus Christ, pleasing him
- Be willing to give up everything to follow Jesus Christ
- Blessings of following Jesus Christ
- Note: Follow God and his commands . . .
- . . . and imitate God, as children of God
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24. Connecting with God -
I. Being Close to God -
a) Seek God - Seek God – with all your heart
- Seek God wholeheartedly and you will find him
- Seeking God should be accompanied by obedience to him
- Seek God and his help through prayer and fasting
- Blessings of seeking God
- Not seeking God has detrimental results
- Note: Desire God and things of God
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b) Focus on God - Keep thinking about God and his love
- Keep thinking about what God has done
- Think about Jesus Christ – and his example
- Look forward to what is to come in the afterlife . . .
- . . . Do not dwell on the past
- Further godly things to focus on
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c) Meet with God and Live before Him - Prepare yourself to come before God, as shown in the OT practice of consecration
- Approach God . . .
- . . . Draw near to God
- Come before God, meeting with him
- Continue to live before God, in his presence . . .
- . . . "Walk" with God
- Act before God – in awareness of his presence and scrutiny
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d) Know God - Know God and Jesus Christ
- Knowing God and Jesus Christ is linked to obeying their commands
- Knowing God is linked with loving and caring for others
- Knowing God and Jesus Christ aids godly living
- Knowing God and Jesus Christ is vital for spiritual growth
- Further blessings of knowing God and Jesus Christ
- Note: Not knowing God leads to sin and evil
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II. Praying to God -
a) The Importance of Prayer - Prayer is portrayed as an offering to God and Jesus Christ
- Prayer is very powerful . . .
- . . . If we ask God for things, he will give or do them
- We help others by praying for them
- We are called on to pray
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b) Praying before God - Pray before God, in his presence
- Approach God with confidence
- Be reverent . . .
- . . . and humble yourself before God
- Pray to God as a caring father
- Pray in the Holy Spirit
- Note: It is vital for prayer that we live righteously . . .
- . . . and so it is vital for prayer that we act rightly towards others
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c) Physical Aspects of Prayer - Pray aloud or in your heart
- Pray anywhere
- Pray anytime
- Pray constantly
- Spend long periods alone in prayer – like Jesus did
- Keep alert to pray
- Postures and gestures used in prayer
- Note: Do not pray for show and do not babble on
-
d) Making Requests - Ask for things in Jesus Christ's "name"
- Ask earnestly . . .
- . . . Even fast when making requests of God
- Ask persistently
- Believe and do not doubt that what you ask will be granted
- Give thanks and praise when asking
- Note: “The Lord’s Prayer” – the prayer Jesus gave as an example
-
e) Epilogue: God's Response to Requests - God answers those who obey and please him . . .
- . . . God does not listen to those who do evil rather than good
- God and Jesus Christ grant anything we ask that is in accordance with their will . . .
- . . . Further verses regarding prayer and God’s will
- Sometimes God may not appear to answer, or does not answer immediately
- Sometimes God and Jesus Christ refuse requests
- Examples and affirmations of God answering prayer
- Further promises and prophecies of God answering prayer
-
25. Exalting God -
I. Instructions -
a) Glorify and Honor God - Glorify God, giving glory to him
- Honor God
- Exalt God
- Glorify and honor God by thanksgiving and praise
- Glorify and honor God and Jesus Christ by how you live . . .
- . . . Glorify and honor them by doing godly work and good deeds
- Live so that others will glorify God because of what you do
- Not glorifying and honoring God has detrimental outcomes
- Note: God honors and gives glory to his people
-
b) Do Not Dishonor God - Do not blaspheme God
- Do not by your actions indirectly blaspheme or profane God
- By ungodly actions we bring dishonor to God before other people . . .
- . . . Live a life worthy of God and Jesus Christ – and all that is of them
- Do not profane or defile things of God
- Additionally, do not despise God . . .
- . . . and do not scoff at God
- Note: We must treat God as holy
-
c) Praise and Thank God - Praise God
- Bless God
- Calls for all things everywhere to praise and bless God
- Praise and bless God constantly
- Praise and bless God forever
- Give thanks to God
- Give thanks to God always
- Blessings of giving praise and thanks to God
- Note: God has formed his people to bring himself praise and honor
-
d) How to Give Praise and Thanks (I): General - In righteousness
- Wholeheartedly
- Through prayer
- In singing . . .
- . . . along with making music
- With dancing
- With lifting up of hands
- Loudly and with shouts
- By making offerings
- Note: Give praise and thanks to God with and among other people
-
e) How to Give Praise and Thanks (II): Rejoicing - Rejoice and be glad in God and Jesus Christ
- Rejoice in God and Jesus Christ always
- Exult and glory in God
- Rejoice and exult when giving praise and thanks to God
- Be glad and joyful when praising and thanking God
- Joy should characterize singing and shouting to God
- Note: Delight in God and in things of God
-
II. Reasons to Exalt God -
a) Aspects of God's Being - God’s glory
- God’s eternity
- God’s greatness
- God’s power
- God’s wisdom and knowledge
- God’s "name"
-
b) Aspects of God's Character - God’s holiness
- God’s steadfast love . . .
- . . . along with God’s faithfulness
- God’s righteousness and justness
- God’s mercy
- God’s goodness
-
c) What God Does in the World - God's deeds in general
- God’s creative work
- God’s provision of water and food . . .
- . . . in which one should rejoice
- God’s reign
- God’s word . . .
- . . . and the spreading of the gospel
- God’s judgments
-
d) What God Does for His People - God's great deeds for his people
- God’s salvation through Jesus Christ and the associated blessings . . .
- . . . in which we should rejoice
- God’s deliverance from difficulties . . .
- . . . in which we should rejoice and exult
- God’s strength for his people
- Further things that God does for his people
-
e) Epilogue: God's Vast Blessing of His People - God and Jesus Christ greatly bless their people . . .
- . . . God bestows much favor on his people
- God does many good and great things for his people
- God blesses his people in many ways
- God’s people lack no good thing
- Ultimately, God gives his people all things
- Note: God gives his people blessings that last
-
F. Church Life -
26. Being One Body -
I. General -
a) The Church as One Body - God's people form local groups, called churches
- The many church members form one body – the body of Christ – with no overriding distinctions
- As one body, church members meet together
- Church members function together as one body
- The church body grows – spiritually and numerically
- Note: All God’s people together are the universal church
-
b) Be in Unison - Be united as one
- Live in peace and harmony with each other
- Submit to one another
- Avoid foolish controversies and quarreling
- Disagreements and quarreling cause divisions . . .
- . . . Quarreling can even cause ruin
- Sometimes disputes and differences may be necessary
- Note: Have any internal legal disputes judged by people of God
-
c) Be in Fellowship - Have fellowship together . . .
- . . . Believers have fellowship collectively with God and Jesus Christ
- Participate together in church activities
- Share together in the sufferings that come because of Jesus Christ
- Share together in the joy that comes in being of the church
- Share in each other's troubles . . .
- . . . and share in each other’s joy
- Keep in touch about each other’s welfare – and keep the others informed of your own
- Note: Believers share together in spiritual blessings and privileges . . .
- . . . Believers will share together in future blessings and privileges
-
d) Love Each Other (I): General - Love one another
- Love one another more and more
- Loving other Christians is indicative of being of God and Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . Not loving other Christians has negative implications
- Love is vital for Christian service and living
- Further blessings of loving each other
-
e) Love Each Other (II): How - Love is expressed with actions
- Love each other as Jesus Christ loved us, even laying down his life
- Love each other genuinely and earnestly
- Love each other as brothers (and sisters)
- Keep each other in your hearts . . .
- . . . Long for each other
- Greet or send greetings to each other . . .
- . . . and welcome each other
- Note: Obedience to God and other aspects of the faith are essential for love
-
II. Caring for the Body -
a) Pray for Each Other (I): General - Pray earnestly for other Christians
- Pray constantly for other Christians
- Pray for those facing persecution
- Pray for those spreading the gospel
- Always thank God for other Christians because of their faith and love
- Thank and praise God because of the service of other Christians
-
b) Pray for Each Other (II): What to Ask - Ask that other believers will live as God wants
- Ask God to forgive them and show mercy when they do sin
- Pray for their spiritual growth and maturity
- Pray for them in their work for the kingdom, asking God to aid them in the work
- Ask God to help and take care of them
- Pronounce godly blessings on other believers . . .
- . . . Pronouncements of blessings of God's and Jesus Christ’s presence
- Note: Prayer for the blessing and peace of Jerusalem
-
c) Encourage Each Other - Encourage each other
- Strengthen each other
- Encourage and strengthen each other by what you say . . .
- . . . Exhort others to continue in God's grace
- Encourage and strengthen each other by what you do . . .
- . . . Do not do anything that will cause another to "stumble"
- Comfort each other
- Comfort those in need by visiting them
-
d) Help Each Other - Care about and be concerned for each other
- Consequently, help each other
- Meet each other's needs . . .
- . . . Share what you have with those in need
- Help others who are doing God’s work
- Note: What one does for another Christian, one does for Jesus Christ
-
27. Worshiping God -
I. General -
a) Worship God - We must worship God
- Worship God alone – do not worship anything or anyone else
- Worship God for his glory and sovereignty
- Worship God for his marvelous deeds – including his creation of everything
- Worship God because of his care of his people
-
b) Worshiping before God - Worship before God, in his presence
- Worship God in spirit and by the Holy Spirit
- Worship God in reverence and awe . . .
- . . . Even bow and fall down before God
- Worship God with praise
- Worship God with thanksgiving
- Worship God through prayer and even with fasting
-
c) Worshiping Together (I): General - Worship God together
- Offer praise and thanksgiving together
- Pray together
- Repent together for corporate sin
- Offerings should be made during collective worship
- Have order and propriety in collective worship
-
d) Worshiping Together (II): OT Feasts and Festivals - The Israelites were to celebrate together three annual festivals or feasts
- Celebration of God's deliverance: The Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread
- Celebration of God’s provision: The Feast of Weeks (or Pentecost); . . .
- . . . and the Feast of Booths
- Israel was also to celebrate new moon festivals
- The feasts and festivals were generally times of rejoicing
- The feasts and festivals included sacred assemblies and days of no regular work
- Offerings to God were a prominent part of feasts and festivals
-
II. Offerings -
a) Reasons to Give to God - We are required to give offerings to God
- Offerings are an important part of worshiping God
- Offerings acknowledge God's provision for us . . .
- . . . In fact, all we have to give God has been given to us by him and ultimately belongs to him
- Offerings express thanksgiving to God for his deliverance
- Offerings support the service of God
- Offerings are often to help the needy – bringing thanks and glory to God
- By giving to God, we ourselves will be blessed
- Note: God has given us the ultimate gift – Jesus Christ himself
-
b) What to Give to God - Give the "firstfruits" to God
- Give the best to God . . .
- . . . Do not give what is inferior to God
- Give all that you can
- The practice of giving an amount in proportion to one's income – such as a tenth
- Offer spiritual sacrifices to God
- Note: The OT grain and peace offerings
-
c) How to Give to God - Give in a way that is acceptable to God
- Give willingly
- Give joyfully
- Give generously
- Give regularly . . .
- . . . and give on special occasions
- Note: The practice of making of vows to God, which have to be kept
-
d) Righteousness and Making Offerings - We must live righteously to acceptably worship God . . .
- . . . Our offerings are not acceptable to God if our lives do not please him
- God desires righteousness more than offerings and sacrifices
- We should in fact offer ourselves to God, in service to him
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28. Serving God -
I. Preliminary Instructions and Insights -
a) Be Prepared to Serve God - We are called to serve God and Jesus Christ
- Be willing to do God's work
- Ensure that you are ready to do God’s work
- Live a godly life in readiness for doing God’s work
- Consecrate yourself to serve God . . .
- . . . Be holy and set apart
- Note: The purification of the priests and Levites for consecration and preparedness for God’s service
-
b) Be Devoted to God's Work - Devote yourself to God’s work
- Serve God only – do not serve anything or anyone else . . .
- . . . Seek to please God rather than people
- Put God and Jesus Christ before everyone else
- Put God’s and Jesus Christ’s interests before your own interests and other matters
- Give up your life to live for God and Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . Be willing even to endanger your life
- Be willing to give up everything – even life’s most basic and dearest things
-
c) Reasons to Serve God - He is our God, who has done great things for us
- We are God's and Jesus Christ’s servants
- God cares for his servants . . .
- . . . God rescues his servants
- Your work for God will be productive
- You will be rewarded for your work . . .
- . . . You will be rewarded particularly in the afterlife
- Whoever does not produce good "fruit" will be cut off from God and Jesus Christ
- Further warnings and consequences regarding not doing God’s work
- Note: Do not work for things that do not satisfy or do not last – and so are in effect meaningless
-
d) Being Guided by God - To be guided by God, live a godly life
- Ask God to guide you (as in troubled times)
- God and Jesus Christ's will can even be understood through godliness and prayer
- Other sources of godly and wise guidance
- Note: In the OT, inquiring of God was at times done through an intercessor . . .
- . . . and it sometimes involved the use of lots
-
II. Doing God's Work -
a) Do God's Work – the Best You Can - Do God’s work
- Do the work assigned to you . . .
- . . . Carry out God’s will
- Work hard at God’s work . . .
- . . . Endure associated persecution and hardships
- Do quality work which bears "fruit" – “fruit” that will last
- Persist at the work
- Complete the work you have been given
-
b) Do the Work through God - Apart from God and Jesus Christ we can accomplish nothing
- Pray to God for help in the work – and ask others to pray
- Do God's work through God and his power
- Do the work by faith and in God’s "name" . . .
- . . . Do God’s work in the “name” of Jesus Christ
- Serve God through the Holy Spirit
- Note: Commit to God whatever you do
-
c) The Manner in Which to Serve God - Serve God in holiness and righteousness
- Serve God with humility
- Serve God with all your heart
- Serve God with zeal . . .
- . . . but zeal must not be misguided
- Be strong and courageous, as God is with those doing his work
- Do not be afraid as you do God's work . . .
- . . . Instead, fear God and serve him faithfully
- Further points on the manner in which to serve God
-
d) Working with Other Believers - Serve each other
- Do God's work together
- Encourage each other in doing God’s work
- Keep each other informed about the work and associated challenges
- Note: Churches send out workers, to aid the spread of the gospel and for other work . . .
- . . . The practice of workers going out in pairs
-
e) Spiritual Gifts - God gives each of his people a spiritual gift, through the Holy Spirit
- God's people are given different spiritual gifts
- The various spiritual gifts . . .
- . . . Examples of the Holy Spirit enabling believers to speak in other languages and to prophesy
- Make good use of spiritual gifts, using them appropriately
- Use your spiritual gift to build up the church
- Further instructions about spiritual gifts
- Other insights concerning spiritual gifts
-
29. Significant Practices -
I. Symbolic Rites -
a) Baptism - God's people are baptized in the "name" of Jesus Christ
- Baptism into Jesus Christ signifies being united with him – with the corresponding implications
- Baptism signifies belief
- Baptism signifies the washing away of sins
- Baptism signifies or is linked with receiving the Holy Spirit . . .
- . . . Receiving the Holy Spirit is sometimes spoken of as being “baptized” with the Holy Spirit
- Further notes on baptism
- Note: John the Baptist’s baptism, for repentance
-
b) The Lord's Supper - Observe the Lord’s Supper – in remembrance of Jesus Christ and his death
- Participating in the Lord’s Supper also symbolizes participating in the blood and body of Jesus Christ
- Further insights on the Lord’s Supper
- Do not participate in the Lord’s Supper in an unworthy manner
-
c) Circumcision: Its Needlessness - Circumcision was the sign of God's covenant with Abraham – and included in the Mosaic Law
- Circumcision does not bring salvation
- For believers, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is of any consequence
- It is our hearts that must be circumcised – as is ultimately accomplished by God
- Denunciation of people advocating circumcision
-
II. Other Significant Practices -
a) Confession of Jesus Christ - Confess Jesus Christ, before others
- Things to confess (or acknowledge) about Jesus Christ
- Examples of people making confessions about Jesus Christ
- Outcomes of confessing Jesus Christ
- Note: If we deny Jesus Christ, he will deny us
-
b) Keeping the Sabbath Holy - On finishing creation, God rested on the seventh day – and made it holy
- Observe the Sabbath as holy by resting on it
- Observance of the Sabbath was given as a sign between God and his people Israel
- Further reasons for keeping the Sabbath holy
- It is permissible to do good and necessary things on the Sabbath
- On the Sabbath God's people assemble for worship . . .
- . . . During Sabbath worship there is teaching, with reading of Scripture
- Blessings for keeping the Sabbath holy – and judgments for not
- Verses alleged to indicate that Christians do not need to keep the Sabbath
- Note: Early Christians met together on the first day of the week
-
c) Fasting - Fasting involves abstaining from food and drink
- Fasting can be done regularly – as an adjunct to prayer and worship
- Fasting can be done on particular occasions, in petitioning God – as in seeking God's help . . .
- . . . or as in asking God to relent from punishing sin
- Fasting can be done to express distress in trouble or remorse over sin
- Note: Fasting in itself is not significant
-
d) The Laying on of Hands - In conveying the gift of the Holy Spirit
- In conveying blessing
- In conveying God's healing
- In commissioning for ministry
- Note: The OT use of oil to anoint and consecrate people for God’s service
-
30. Church Leadership -
I. General -
a) Introductory Insights - Churches have leaders
- Typically churches are together overseen by a central leadership group
- Ultimately it is God who chooses leaders . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit play a role in the making of leaders
- Leaders will be accountable to God for their work
- Leaders will be richly rewarded for good work
- Note: Examples of the ordination of leaders
-
b) Required Characteristics - Godliness
- Wisdom and competence
- Strength and courage
- Willingness to serve
- Deep love for church members . . .
- . . . and concern for church members
-
c) Managing the Church - As a leader, supervise church affairs
- Delegate work to capable people
- Be gentle and sparing in the use of authority . . .
- . . . but exercise authority where necessary
- Be an example for church members to imitate
-
d) Caring for Church Members - Be a shepherd taking care of God's flock
- Pray for church members
- Strengthen members in the faith
- Exhort and urge members on in aspects of the Christian life
- Follow up and pastor members by visiting them . . .
- . . . or by writing letters to them
- Serve church members
- Work hard at helping church members
- Be prepared to suffer hardship for church members
-
e) Dealing with Sin in the Church - Confront church members over sin
- Rebuke members for their sin . . .
- . . . and warn them to stop sinning
- Expel unrepentant sinners . . .
- . . . This is partly for the benefit of the offenders themselves
- Have multiple witnesses in disciplinary procedures
- Restoring a person who has sinned
- Note: Unchecked sin corrupts others
-
f) Women in Leadership - In the OT Israelite nation, some women had roles as leaders . . .
- . . . and some women were prophetesses
- In the NT church, some women had significant ministerial roles . . .
- . . . One such role was prophesying
- Controversial passages on women not speaking in church
- Note: The oneness and interdependence of women and men "in" Jesus Christ
-
g) Church Members' Duties to Leaders - Love your leaders
- Respect and revere your leaders
- Honor your leaders
- Listen to your leaders and their teaching
- Obey your leaders
- Give your leaders material support . . .
- . . . Leaders deserve material support
- Church members can bring their leaders great joy, in loving them and others
- Church members can bring leaders joy by firm faith and obedient, godly lives
-
II. Teaching in the Church -
a) What to Teach: God's Word - Teach and preach God’s word
- Teach God’s commands and ways
- Teach the truths of the faith . . .
- . . . Examples of spiritual truth being taught from Scripture
- Read God’s word in church assemblies
- Use God’s word as the authoritative standard in determining what is true . . .
- . . . and use God’s word in determining what actions are legitimate
- Note: Do not add to or subtract from God’s word – nor distort it
-
b) How to Teach - Explain God's word and truths
- Where applicable, use illustrations in teaching
- Do not teach beyond what the hearers can understand
- The manner in which to teach
- The teaching needs to be correct . . .
- . . . and the teaching needs to be complete
- Keep reminding church members of teachings
- Note: Church members can themselves instruct one another
-
c) Traits of False Teachers (I): Their Teaching - False teachers speak lies and delusions of their own, in God's name
- Their teaching is hollow – of worldly, human origin
- False teachers say what their listeners like to hear – appealing and pleasant things . . .
- . . . False teachers do not confront their listeners with their sin
- False teachers teach different doctrine to what is correct
- False teachers distort and oppose the truth
- False teachers typically deny Jesus Christ – and so are of the antichrist
- Other notes about their teaching
- Note: False teachers and their teaching are savage and destructive – causing controversies and divisions
-
d) Traits of False Teachers (II): Characteristics - The minds and consciences of false teachers are corrupted
- False teachers typically follow their sinful desires
- False teachers are generally greedy for personal gain
- False teachers are deceitful
- False teachers are often conceited and contemptuous
- False teachers lack understanding and knowledge
- Note: False teachers stand condemned . . .
- . . . False teachers face destruction
-
e) Guarding against False Teachers - Watch out for false teachers and their teaching . . .
- . . . Do not be deceived or led astray by false teachers
- Test teachers by comparing their teaching with the Scriptures and sound biblical doctrine
- False teachers can be recognized by their "fruit" and actions
- Do not tolerate false teachers and their teaching . . .
- . . . Have nothing to do with false teachers
- Note: False teachers often succeed in leading people astray . . .
- . . . False teachers can lead many astray
-
G. Relating to People -
31. Love -
I. Loving Qualities -
a) Love - What love is
- The supremacy of love
- Live in love
- Do things in love
- Love others as you love yourself . . .
- . . . "Love your neighbor as yourself" sums up God's law
- Love your enemies and do good to them . . .
- . . . Do not repay evil with evil, but with good
-
b) Generosity - Be generous
- Lend to others
- Share with others
- Practice hospitality . . .
- . . . Examples of hospitality
- Be kind and gracious . . .
- . . . Insights on and examples of kindness
- Generosity brings oneself great blessing
-
c) Mercy - Show mercy
- Be merciful and God will show you mercy
- Be compassionate
- Forgive others . . .
- . . . Forgive and God will forgive you
- Do not judge others . . .
- . . . If you judge others, God will judge you accordingly
- Note: Human judgment is typically superficial and inadequate
-
d) Gentleness - Be gentle
- Be patient, bearing with others
- Be meek
- Do not take revenge . . .
- . . . Rather than taking revenge, wait for God to act
- Seek peace, including peace with others . . .
- . . . and seek peace for others – in part through prayer
- Live and act in a quiet manner
-
II. Antitheses of Love -
a) Selfish Attitudes - Do not pursue selfish ends . . .
- . . . Examples of selfishness
- Do not be greedy
- Do not covet
- Seek the interests of others before your own . . .
- . . . Do so even at great cost to yourself, as Jesus Christ did
- Be considerate and reasonable
-
b) Ill Feelings - Avoid anger
- Do not hate
- Get rid of bitterness
- Do not bear malice
- Do not be jealous . . .
- . . . Do not envy
- Do not show contempt
-
c) Adverse Speech - Do not quarrel
- Do not curse
- Do not scoff
- Do not slander
- Do not gossip
- Do not grumble, particularly against others
-
d) Adverse Force - Do not use violence . . .
- . . . God hates and punishes violence
- Do not murder
- Do not rape
- Do not kidnap
- Do not oppress
-
32. Justice -
I. Justice in Action -
a) Do What Is Just and Right - Practice justice
- Practice righteousness along with justice . . .
- . . . Do what is right
- Do no wrong to others
- Strive to do what is right in the eyes of both God and people
- Acting justly brings blessing
- Injustice brings God's judgment
-
b) Administering Justice - Administer and maintain justice
- Judge justly
- Do not show partiality in judging . . .
- . . . Nor show partiality in other matters
- Further instructions about legal judgments
- Have the same laws for foreigners as for the native-born
- OT laws of compensation
- Note: Avoid going to court
-
c) Justice and the Needy (I): Instructions - Do not mistreat the needy
- Defend the cause of the needy
- Give to the needy . . .
- . . . Provide the needy with food and clothing
- Even sell your possessions to give to the poor
- Note: Treat foreigners the same as your native-born
-
d) Justice and the Needy (II): Insights - Defending and providing for the needy are a vital part of true religion
- Defending and providing for the needy are associated with righteousness
- Defending and providing for the needy bring one blessing . . .
- . . . but giving to the needy must be done in an appropriate manner
- Blessings include one's own needs being met . . .
- . . . There will also be reward in the afterlife
- God will punish those who mistreat the needy
- God will punish those who ignore the needy
-
e) OT Structured Provisions for the Needy - The providing of produce for the needy
- The prohibiting of taking interest or profit from the poor
- The canceling of fellow Israelites' debts every seven years
- The release of Israelite servants every seven years
- The year of jubilee
- The right of redemption for Israelite servants and of ancestral land
-
II. Being True -
a) Faithfulness - Be faithful . . .
- . . . Examples of faithfulness
- Be trustworthy and reliable
- Stand by others . . .
- . . . Do not desert others
- Do not betray others
- Results of faithfulness
- Consequences of unfaithfulness
- Note: Insights on friendship . . .
- . . . Jonathan and David's close friendship
-
b) Truthfulness - Be truthful . . .
- . . . Speak the truth
- Be honest
- Be sincere
- Have integrity . . .
- . . . Integrity brings security and other blessings
-
c) Deceitfulness - Do not deceive
- Do not lie
- Do not give false testimony
- Do not use flattery
- Do not plot evil schemes
- Avoid hypocrisy: Not acting in accordance with what you say; . . .
- . . . and false external practices – doing things for show
- Deceptive practices bring oneself harm
- Deceptive practices ultimately bring God's judgment
-
d) Dishonest Gain - Do not pursue dishonest gain
- Do not steal
- Do not defraud
- Do not practice extortion
- Do not accept bribes
- Ill-gotten gain does not last
- Ill-gotten gain has ill consequences
-
e) Addendum: Oaths - The practice of swearing oaths, in God's name – not to be done falsely
- Swearing oaths to assert the truthfulness of a statement
- Swearing an oath to confirm a pledge . . .
- . . . Such oaths are barred by NT teaching
- Note: References to God’s or Jesus Christ’s presence and approval regarding a matter
-
33. Wisdom -
I. Being Wise -
a) Prologue: The Precedence of Godly Wisdom - Godly wisdom is superior to anything else
- Worldly wisdom is flawed and inferior to the wisdom of God
- Worldly wisdom and knowledge are ultimately futile, even detrimental
- So get godly wisdom and be wise . . .
- . . . Seek out wisdom and knowledge
-
b) Wisdom through God - Fearing God is the beginning of wisdom
- Ask God for wisdom . . .
- . . . For it is God who gives wisdom
- Obeying God's commands brings wisdom . . .
- . . . Those who have wisdom and understanding keep God’s law
- Note: Wisdom involves doing what is right – and shunning evil
-
c) Wisdom through Others - Pay attention to instruction . . .
- . . . Wise people listen to and learn from instruction
- Listen to advice – which is important for making plans
- Accept reproof
- Additional insights on accepting reproof and discipline
- Outcomes of ignoring reproof and discipline
- Further advice and insights on gaining wisdom
-
d) Wise Speech (I): Instructions - Be quick to listen and slow to speak
- Be careful when speaking
- Use few words – in contrast to fools
- Speak gently
- Speak graciously
- Do not sin in what you say
- Note: Instructions and insights on giving rebuke
-
e) Wise Speech (II): Insights - The righteous speak wisely . . .
- . . . One's words are determined by the "heart"
- Wise speech is of great value
- The speech of the wise imparts wisdom and knowledge
- Further ways wise speech benefits others
- Other ways one’s words can be beneficial
- Beware: The tongue has great power, capable of evil and destructive effects
-
f) Wise Personal Practices - Be self-controlled . . .
- . . . Self-control comes from God and wisdom
- Do not act in haste
- Work hard . . .
- . . . Ensure you have adequate provisions
- Do not be idle . . .
- . . . Idleness leads to poverty and associated troubles
- Enjoy life and so be joyful
-
II. Antitheses of Wisdom and Knowledge -
a) Foolishness - Fools spurn and lack both wisdom and knowledge
- Foolishness involves failure to comprehend God and his ways
- Foolishness involves failure to comprehend other spiritual truths
- Foolishness involves acting contrary to God
- Foolishness encompasses sin
- Foolishness encompasses wickedness and doing evil
- Further characteristics of fools
- Results of foolishness . . .
- . . . Ultimately, foolishness results in ruin – even death
-
b) Foolish and Ungodly Practices - Being quick-tempered is foolish and ungodly
- Indulging in pleasure is foolish and pointless . . .
- . . . and indulging in pleasure is ungodly
- Drunkenness and gluttony are unwise, causing one trouble . . .
- . . . Drunkenness should be avoided, particularly as it leads to ungodliness
- Further ungodly practices that are notably foolish
- Further practices typical of fools
- Unwise practices comparable to foolishness
- Note: Warnings against putting up security for another's debt
-
c) Spiritual Ignorance (I): Causes and Results - Spiritual ignorance is caused basically by sin and ungodliness
- Spiritual ignorance and lack of perception is caused partly by the ungodly being closed-minded . . .
- . . . God and Jesus Christ may even judicially blind ungodly people
- Thus, the ungodly lack spiritual sense and knowledge . . .
- . . . and the ungodly are in spiritual "darkness"
- Spiritual ignorance results in further sin and ungodliness
- Spiritual ignorance and lack of spiritual perception result in unbelief
- Spiritual ignorance and lack of spiritual understanding culminate in dire consequences
-
d) Spiritual Ignorance (II): Knowledge Lacked - The ungodly do not know God, Jesus Christ or the Holy Spirit
- The ungodly do not comprehend God's word
- The ungodly do not know how God wants them to live . . .
- . . . and they do not know or understand many other spiritual truths
- The ungodly are ignorant of and deceived about their sin
- The ungodly are misguided about their standing with God and Jesus Christ
- The ungodly are skeptical of God knowing their deeds and of his judgment
- The ungodly are largely oblivious of God’s pending punishment – which they will bear
-
e) Epilogue: Blessings of Wisdom - Understanding and insight . . .
- . . . and discernment
- Prudence and discretion
- Knowledge – including knowing what to do
- Righteousness and justness
- Protection . . .
- . . . and life
- Strength and success
- Prosperity
- Honor
- Further blessings of wisdom
- Note: Living without wisdom has harmful consequences
-
34. Common Relationships -
I. Family Relationships -
a) Prologue: Getting Married - Issues in deciding whether to stay single or marry: General; . . .
- . . . Forsaking marriage for God and Jesus Christ
- Do not marry outside of God's people – particularly as it can result in being led astray
- A person should have only one spouse
- Remarriage and adultery
- Note: Finding a good wife is a great blessing – a gift from God . . .
- . . . but a quarrelsome or ungodly wife is troublesome
-
b) Spouses (I): General - A husband and wife should be as one, which involves sexual union
- Husbands should love their wives
- Wives should submit to their husbands
- Do not commit adultery – which brings God's judgment . . .
- . . . Warnings against being enticed by an adulteress – which leads to ruin
- Avoid divorce – it is contrary to God’s purposes
-
c) Spouses (II): Romantic Love - The marvel of love
- Spouses and their love belong exclusively to each other
- Further insights on love
- Examples and declarations of love
- Adoration of lover's beauty
- Desire to give oneself to one’s lover
- Further desire for and enjoyment of sexual intimacy with one’s lover
-
d) Parents' Duties to Children (I): Love and Care - Parents should love their children
- Parents should have compassion on their children
- Parents should care for their children
- Parents should provide for their children
- Parents should pray for their children
- Note: Points on relating to children in general
-
e) Parents' Duties to Children (II): Godly Training - Parents should raise their children to live as God wants
- Parents should discipline their children
- Parents should teach their children about God and his deeds, inspiring them to obey God’s laws . . .
- . . . Parents should promote faith in their children
- Note: Godly parents bring great blessing to their children
-
f) Children's Duties to Parents - Children are to honor and respect their parents . . .
- . . . Children should not dishonor or mistreat their parents
- Likewise, all older people should be treated with respect
- Children are to obey their parents
- Children should heed their parents’ teaching – which brings great benefits
- Children are to help their parents . . .
- . . . One should assist any relative in need
- Note: Children are a blessing to their parents from God . . .
- . . . and children can bring their parents much joy
-
II. Civil Relationships -
a) Citizens' Duties to Authorities - Citizens should submit to and obey the governing authorities . . .
- . . . For the authorities have been established by God and they will punish wrongdoers
- Citizens should defy any command that conflicts with God’s will
- Citizens should honor authorities
- Citizens should pray for authorities
-
b) Authorities' Duties to Citizens (I): General - Governing authorities should act and rule according to God’s law and ways
- Authorities should rule as servants of God
- Authorities should rule wisely . . .
- . . . Authorities need to be wise
- Note: Further traits that should characterize authorities
-
c) Authorities' Duties to Citizens (II): Justice - Authorities should rule justly
- Authorities should defend the needy
- Authorities should not rule unjustly . . .
- . . . Unjust rule brings God’s judgment
- Various insights on unjust rule
-
d) Servants and Masters - Servants should obey, submit to and respect their masters
- Servants should be faithful
- Good service is rewarded
- Masters must treat servants justly
- Masters should pay servants their wages
- Note: Miscellaneous instructions and insights regarding slaves
-
35. Spreading the Gospel -
I. Instructions -
a) Tell People the Gospel - Tell people the gospel message . . .
- . . . Tell people the gospel about Jesus Christ
- Tell all people, everywhere
- Continue to tell people the gospel despite suffering for doing so
- Do not be ashamed of the gospel, even despite suffering for it
- Try to persuade people to believe and respond to the gospel
-
b) What Things to Explain - That Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God . . .
- . . . Further key things about who Jesus Christ is
- Jesus Christ's person and deeds – as witnessed and testified to by NT believers
- Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection . . .
- . . . NT believers testified to Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection having witnessed them
- The outcomes of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection
- The kingdom of God
- What God is like and what he has done . . .
- . . . including what God has done for you
- What else you have seen and heard (of God and Jesus Christ)
- How people should respond
-
c) How to Spread the Message - Present the gospel accurately and plainly
- The manner in which to present the gospel message
- Spread the gospel by the Holy Spirit
- Spread the gospel boldly . . .
- . . . Spread the gospel boldly with God's help
- Work hard at spreading the gospel message
- Further notes on spreading the gospel message
- Note: Spreading the gospel is not to be done for profit; take measures not to be a financial burden
-
d) Supplementary Actions - Pray for the proclamation of the gospel, including others who proclaim it
- Pray for the salvation of unbelievers
- Rather than insist on your own rights, act in the interests of others for the sake of the gospel
- Live and act in a way that is consistent with the gospel
- In acting consistently with the gospel, you and the faith will not be discredited . . .
- . . . You will have credibility, attracting people to the gospel
- Support others spreading the gospel . . .
- . . . Give hospitality and aid to visiting preachers and workers
- Note: Guard the gospel message
-
II. Insights -
a) Insights on the Gospel Message - The gospel is not made up by men – it is true
- The gospel reveals God's hidden mystery concerning Jesus Christ
- The gospel is of God’s grace
- The gospel is good news
- The message of Jesus Christ is a stumbling block for many people
- Those who do not believe and respond to the gospel will be condemned
-
b) The Need to Spread the Gospel - We have been entrusted with the gospel and the task of telling others . . .
- . . . We are responsible for telling others
- Through believers spreading the gospel message others come to believe . . .
- . . . and there are many ready to respond to the gospel – but they need someone to tell them
- The gospel brings salvation, saving those who respond to it
- The gospel brings life to those who respond
- Further blessings that spreading the gospel brings to those who respond
-
c) God and the Gospel's Effectiveness - The gospel is the power and wisdom of God to save – though it may seem foolish to the world
- The gospel is not dependent on us and our presentation of it – but on the Holy Spirit and God’s power
- The Holy Spirit witnesses about Jesus Christ to people, fostering belief
- God and Jesus Christ at times confirm the gospel message by miracles . . .
- . . . Miracles lead people to believe the message and turn to God
-
d) Further Insights regarding the Gospel - Believers are to be light for the world
- Insights regarding spreading the gospel
- Those who spread the gospel will be blessed
- The gospel has spread far and wide
- The gospel will be preached to all nations before the end
-
H. Persevering -
36. Standing Firm -
I. General -
a) Be Faithful to God - Be faithful to God and Jesus Christ
- Hold fast to God and his ways
- Serve God and Jesus Christ faithfully . . .
- . . . Examples of faithful service
- Do not be unfaithful to God by not keeping his commands
- Do not forsake God
- God and Jesus Christ protect and bless those who are faithful to them
- God punishes those who are unfaithful
- God punishes those who forsake him
-
b) Remember God and His Word - Ensure you remember God
- Remember what God has done
- Remember God's word and commands
- Persistently meditate on God’s word and commands . . .
- . . . Keep God’s word and commands in your heart and thoughts
- Note: Forgetting God has dreadful consequences
-
c) Hold to the Faith - Continue in the faith
- Stand firm
- Hold to Christian teaching, abiding in it . . .
- . . . Continue to live by Christian teaching
- Grow in the faith and in your knowledge
- Grow in all aspects of your Christian life . . .
- . . . and produce spiritual "fruit"
-
d) Persist until the End - Stand firm until the end
- Persist and be diligent so that you will receive the reward . . .
- . . . Be like an athlete, striving for a prize
- Be careful not to turn away from God . . .
- . . . Do not rebel against God
- Some people do fall away
- Falling away brings dire consequences
- Note: Dreadful consequences of Israel's rebellion against God
-
e) Be Ready for Jesus Christ's Return - Await Jesus Christ’s return – and for all that will follow
- As we do not know when Jesus Christ will come, "stay awake" and be ready
- To be ready for Jesus Christ’s return, live a godly life . . .
- . . . and live a constructive life
- Do not live an ungodly life, leaving you unprepared for Jesus Christ’s return
- Do not be deceived by false claims, for Christ’s return will be only after certain events – and obvious to all
-
II. Spiritual Warfare -
a) The Existence of Spiritual Warfare - Believers are involved in conflict of a spiritual nature
- Believers have spiritual enemies, notably Satan
- Believers have human enemies, spiritually opposed to them
- Believers face internal spiritual conflict
- God and Jesus Christ aid believers in spiritual warfare, enabling them to overcome
-
b) Engaging in Spiritual Warfare - Beware of spiritual dangers
- Resist Satan
- Use spiritual weapons and armor
- Spiritual weapons and armor include: faith; . . .
- . . . God's word; . . .
- . . . and prayer
-
c) Counteraction of Demons - Distinguishing between the Holy Spirit and demons
- Jesus Christ drove out demons . . .
- . . . Jesus Christ gave some of his followers similar authority over demons
- Demons are driven out of people in Jesus Christ's "name"
- The Holy Spirit, faith and prayer also figure in the driving out of demons
-
d) Ungodly Spiritualistic Practices - Do not practice witchcraft or other occult practices
- Do not consult anyone who does perform occult practices
- Do not have other "gods" or idols
- Other “gods” and idols are lifeless and fallacies . . .
- . . . Other “gods” and idols are useless
- Worship of idols is correlated with worship of demons
- Having other “gods” and idols is very detrimental
- Having other “gods” and idols is detrimental to our relationship with God
- Having other “gods” and idols culminates in God's retribution
- Note: Other “gods” and idolatry are not restricted to physical images
-
37. Rejecting Sin -
I. Encountering Sin -
a) Consequences of Sin for God's People - Prelude: God’s people still sin
- Sin deprives God’s people of his blessings
- Sin deprives God’s people of rest and peace
- God punishes sin, which can mean physical suffering and emotional anguish . . .
- . . . along with various other troubles
- Sin defiles God’s people – making them spiritually unclean
- God turns away from those who persist in sin . . .
- . . . God rejects them and thrusts them from his presence
- Further implications of deliberately or habitually continuing to sin
-
b) Addressing Sin (I): Return from Sin to God - Stop sinning, turning away from sin
- Do not be stubborn, like the Israelites were, resisting God and persisting in sin
- So get rid of sin . . .
- . . . and get rid of things involved in sinful practices
- Return to God
- Return to God with all your heart – not insincerely
- In returning from sin to God, do what God wants
-
c) Addressing Sin (II): Deal with Sin before God - Confess your sin to God
- Be sorrowful over your sin
- Humble yourself before God over your sin – and its consequences
- Ask God for forgiveness and restoration
- In petitioning God, express your anguish over consequences of your sin – even with fasting
- Note: Accept God's discipline for sin
-
d) God's Response to Repentance - Prelude: God seeks to draw his wayward people back to him
- When we repent God forgives our sins . . .
- . . . Further references to God forgiving sin
- Being merciful and compassionate, God saves us from the consequences of our sin
- When we repent God restores our relationship with him
- Note: Not repenting and returning to God brings judgment . . .
- . . . Unrepentant churches face Jesus Christ’s judgment
-
II. Avoiding Sin and Being Holy -
a) Avoiding Sin - Take care not to sin
- Ask God for help to avoid sin . . .
- . . . For God and Jesus Christ are willing and able to help us withstand temptation
- Use God's word to avoid sin and counter evil
- Avoid sinful passions and desires . . .
- . . . Sinful passions and desires lead to sin
- Renew your mind and take care of your "heart"
- Get rid of sinful influences
- Avoid all evil
- Hate evil and sin
- Along with hating evil, love what is good
-
b) Alternatives to Sin - Instead of living by the sinful nature, live by the Holy Spirit
- Instead of living in darkness, live according to the light and truth . . .
- . . . Insights on living in darkness and living in God's light and truth
- Instead of living as a slave to sin, live as a slave to God and righteousness . . .
- . . . In avoiding sin be focused on doing what is right
- Pursue righteousness . . .
- . . . Be righteous and upright
- Be good
- Note: Further actions that counter sin and evil
-
c) Be Holy (I): General - Be holy
- Be holy because God is holy
- Be godly
- Be pure . . .
- . . . Be blameless
- Make every effort to be holy and godly, particularly in view of what is to come
- Things that lead to holiness
- Things that lead to purity
- We should be holy and pleasing to God because of the things he has done for us
- The godly, blameless and pure are accepted by God and Jesus Christ
- The godly, blameless and pure are cared for and blessed by God
-
d) Be Holy (II): Being Set Apart - Prelude: The world is basically evil
- Be set apart for God
- Do not love this world
- Do not conform to this world
- Do not live as other people do . . .
- . . . Worldly and human behavior to be avoided
- Avoid bad company . . .
- . . . Bad company is corruptive and harmful
- Avoid compromising alliances with unbelievers and the wicked
- Note: God's people are not of this world . . .
- . . . God’s people are in effect exiles and temporary residents in this world – even homeless in it
-
38. Major Pitfalls -
I. Pride -
a) Pride in Thought - Do not be proud or conceited
- Do not be arrogant
- Do not be haughty . . .
- . . . Do not think you are better than others
- Do not be wise in your own eyes . . .
- . . . Seeing yourself as wise is associated with foolishness
- Do not be self-righteous . . .
- . . . Self-righteousness causes one to overlook sin
- Do not embrace glory from people – particularly in preference to glory from God
- Note: Pride can easily stem from riches and power
-
b) Pride in Action: Self-Exaltation and Boasting - Do not exalt yourself . . .
- . . . Honor others, rather than yourself
- Do not dress lavishly for outward appearances
- Those who exalt themselves will be humbled – and those who humble themselves will be exalted
- Do not boast about yourself . . .
- . . . Only boast about God and Jesus Christ
- Boasting about oneself typically is bad
- Boasting is of no benefit and even destructive
-
c) Outcomes of Pride - Pride is very detrimental to a relationship with God . . .
- . . . and acting presumptuously is linked with not obeying God's commands
- Pride and arrogance lead to ill treatment of others
- Pride is associated with self-deception and flawed understanding
- Pride leads to one’s downfall – in contrast to humility
- God punishes the proud and arrogant . . .
- . . . God brings down and humbles the proud
-
d) Antithesis of Pride: Humility - Be humble, particularly before God
- Humbly acknowledge your unworthiness before God and Jesus Christ
- Fast as a means of humbling yourself before God
- Be humble towards others
- Humility is important for obeying and serving God
- God cares for and blesses the humble
- Not humbling yourself can bring dire consequences
-
II. Riches and Sex -
a) Riches and Godliness - Riches are a barrier to a relationship with God
- Riches draw one away from God . . .
- . . . Contrastingly, the poor are given prominence as recipients of the gospel and God's kingdom
- Desire for riches can lead to mistreatment of others
- So, do not love money . . .
- . . . Be content with what you have
- Note: Wealth ultimately comes from God
-
b) Further Warnings about Riches - Riches are not secure . . .
- . . . and we do not know what the future holds
- Life does not last and the dead cannot take their riches with them
- Hoarding riches will bring ill consequences in the afterlife
- Other shortcomings of riches
- Note: Advantages of riches, as opposed to poverty
-
c) Sexual Sin - Avoid sexual sin . . .
- . . . Be pure
- Sexual sin has ill consequences
- Sexual sin ultimately results in God's judgment
- Further insights on sexual sin
- Note: The sexually immoral who believe and repent are forgiven and granted righteousness
-
d) Prohibited Forms of Sex - Lust
- Fornication
- Prostitution
- Homosexual acts
- Incest
- Bestiality
-
e) Epilogue: Be Wary - Be sober-minded
- Watch yourself . . .
- . . . Watch and guard yourself against sinning
- Examine and evaluate yourself
- Keep a clear conscience . . .
- . . . A good conscience is vital for governing ourselves in pleasing God
- Evaluate all things
- Do not be deceived, nor deceive yourself
- Beware: Sin is deceptive
- Warnings against complacency
-
39. Hard Times -
I. General -
a) Prologue: God's People Still Have Hard Times - Trouble is characteristic of human life
- The wicked seek to oppress the righteous and the poor
- Examples of God’s people undergoing hard times
- Examples of God’s people even attributing hard times to God
- Note: The desire to contend with God over one’s plight
-
b) Mourn Loss - Mourn and weep over loss – particularly deaths
- Mourn and weep before God
- Openly express your sorrow and grief
- Fast in mourning
-
c) Keep in Mind God and His Word - In hard times, remember God . . .
- . . . and remember what God has done
- Seek God in hard times
- Do not forget God's word
- Keep meditating on God’s word and obeying it – living righteously
- Put your hope in God’s word
- Take comfort in God’s word and delight in it
-
d) Trust in God - During hard times, trust in God
- Commit yourself to God and take refuge in him . . .
- . . . For God saves and protects those who take refuge in him
- Accept hard times from God
- Do not complain against nor contend with God because of hard times
-
e) Hope in God and Wait for Him - During hard times, put your hope in God
- Look resolutely and expectantly to God
- Wait for God
- Wait for God patiently and quietly
- Wait with confidence and in the knowledge that God will act . . .
- . . . For God cares for and blesses those who wait for him
-
II. Praying in Hard Times -
a) Express Your Anguish to God - Tell God of your plight and how you feel . . .
- . . . Pour out your heart to God
- Prayer anxiously speaking of God's seeming remoteness and of apparent isolation from him . . .
- . . . Consequent longing for God amidst suffering
- Prayer despairingly speaking of God as even the source of one’s suffering
- Prayer desperately asking God how long suffering and his apparent inaction or wrath is to continue
-
b) Ask God for Help (I): General - When facing trouble, call on God . . .
- . . . Cry out to God for help
- Ask God and Jesus Christ for mercy
- Ask God for strength
- Ask God to guide you
- Ask God to preserve and protect you
- Ask God to deliver you
- Ask God to hear and answer your prayer . . .
- . . . Ask God to quickly answer and help you
- Persist in prayer to God
- Note: Prayer asking for retribution for wicked enemies
-
c) Ask God for Help (II): Things to Appeal To - God's righteousness
- God’s steadfast love and faithfulness . . .
- . . . along with God’s mercy
- Your devotion to and relationship with God . . .
- . . . and God’s promises to his people
- The sake of God’s "name"
- Note: Believe that God will hear you and answer your prayer – and tell him so
-
d) Praise and Rejoice in God - Praise and thank God amidst trouble
- Rejoice in God amidst trouble
- Determine and promise to praise and thank God for deliverance
- Praise and thank God when he answers prayer made in hard times
- Rejoice in God's deliverance from hard times
-
e) Epilogue: God Does Respond to Suffering and Cries - God is near us in hard times and when we pray
- God does not ignore the suffering and cries of the afflicted
- God comforts his people in hard times, and in delivering them
- God hears the cries of the godly and rescues them . . .
- . . . God has compassion on his people, saving and blessing them
- Further testimony to God answering prayers in suffering and trouble
- Further specific examples of God answering prayers in suffering and trouble
-
40. Persecution -
I. The Persecution of God's People -
a) God's People Face Persecution - Following God and Jesus Christ results in persecution . . .
- . . . It brings all kinds of hardships and suffering
- Spreading the gospel can lead to opposition . . .
- . . . and spreading the gospel can result in persecution
- God’s people are hated
- God’s people may face plots against them
-
b) Types of Persecution - Ridicule
- Verbal abuse
- Lies and slander
- Ostracism and expulsion
- Imprisonment
- Beatings and violence
- Threat of death . . .
- . . . and even death
- Further forms of persecution
-
c) The Antichrist and the Final Persecution - Scripture speaks of the coming of an antichrist
- The antichrist will be of Satan and opposed to God
- The antichrist will have great authority and be worshiped
- Persecution of God's people will increase in the end times – especially due to the antichrist . . .
- . . . Martyrdom will be prominent
- "Three and a half years" is given for the rule of the antichrist and intense persecution
- The end of the antichrist
- The contrasting outcomes for submitting and not submitting to the antichrist
-
d) God's Care of Persecuted Believers - God’s all-surpassing purpose, work and love for his people – despite adversity
- God and Jesus Christ strengthen their people amidst trials
- God and Jesus Christ will rescue their people from trials . . .
- . . . Examples of God and Jesus Christ rescuing believers from trials
- God will ultimately save believers from the persecution of the end times
- Note: God will take vengeance on those who persecute his people
-
II. What to Do in Persecution -
a) Be Faithful to God and Endure - Remain faithful to God and Jesus Christ
- Continue to do what God wants
- Endure persecution and suffering
- Endure persecution and suffering patiently
- Consider and follow Jesus Christ's example in suffering . . .
- . . . and share Jesus Christ’s sufferings
- Note: Be on your guard against persecutors and avoid persecution when appropriate
-
b) Have Faith in God and Pray - Have faith and hope in God and Jesus Christ . . .
- . . . Faith enables one to endure persecution and suffering
- Do not be afraid of persecutors or suffering
- Do not worry about what to say – you will be given what to say
- Pray to God, asking for help
- Pray for and bless those who persecute you
-
c) Rejoice - Rejoice because trials develop Christian character and virtues
- Rejoice because of rewards for suffering and enduring persecution . . .
- . . . and look forward to these rewards
- Other reasons to rejoice in persecution and difficulties
- Further examples of rejoicing during persecution and difficulties
-
d) Epilogue: Blessings for Faithfulness in Persecution - Blessings amidst suffering and in the present life
- The future rewards of: eternal life; . . .
- . . . God's kingdom; and glory
- Other blessings in the afterlife . . .
- . . . Blessings for "one who conquers"