Search Headings

• I. What to Know

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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”

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• II.	The Manifestation of God’s Judgment

• a)	Means of God’s Judicial Retribution

• Angels
• Nature
• Rulers . . .
• . . . and nations
• God’s own people

• b)	Characteristics of God’s Judicial Retribution

• Awesome power . . .
• . . . and irresistible
• Inescapable
• Terrifying . . .
• . . . causing great grief and anguish
• Horrific consequences . . .
• . . . even complete devastation

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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”

• 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”

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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”