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WELCOME! |
The teaching outlines presented here
are designed for one-on-one studies |
| and seminar
presentations. WEI Students having completed
WEI Books 3 - 6 can continue in an open Bible study using
these 7 lessons. |
7 Lessons Leading to Conversion |
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Lesson one
Who is Jesus
?
Sharing the Good News
Introduction
Christianity is all Christ. All of our faith hangs on Jesus, His deity,
His cross, and His resurrection. Many have different ideas of what Jesus
was like. What kind of person do you think Jesus was?
Have
you really ever considered the incredible claims that the Bible makes
about this man, Jesus of Nazareth? What makes Him different from Buddha or
Mohammed? Is He different or is He just one of many "good" religious men
throughout history? In this lesson, we will see the real Jesus of the
Bible.
I. JESUS IS AN ACTUAL HISTORICAL FIGURE.
Luke 3:1
Jesus is placed in an actual historical setting along with Roman
officials like Herod, Pontius Pilate, and Caesar. Mythological or
fairy tale characters do not have actual historical settings
(Cinderella: once upon a time in a far away land...)
Matthew and Luke also include the genealogies of Jesus to show that
Jesus was in the right family of the predicted Messiah. Mythological
characters like the Easter bunny do not have a family tree!
II. JESUS EXISTED IN THE BEGINNING.
John 1:1-2; 14-18
When was "the beginning"?
(Genesis 1:1, the Creation, when
time began...) Who is the "Word" in this passage? Have you ever
considered Jesus to be an eternal being? John 8:56-58
When Jesus made this statement, Abraham had been dead for over 1,000
years already. Did Jesus claim that he was before Abraham? (Jesus uses
the same "I AM" terminology that God used to describe Himself
to Moses in Genesis 3:14. "I AM" I have always been, I exist,
and will always exist." Can you think of any other religious leaders
who claim to have existed from before the beginning of time and the
creation?
NOTE: Jesus
either lied, or was a lunatic, or made a true statement. However,
He can't be a good man and be a liar or a crazy man
at the same time. One famous writer wrote that "you must curse Him
and spit at Him, or bow your knee before Him and call Him Lord,
but you cannot say 'He was a good man and deny His claims."' He
cannot be a good man if he was a liar.
You and I must
examine His claims and make a decision about who Jesus is.
III. JESUS IS GOD.
John 1:1, 14
Does the Bible claim that Jesus (The Word) is God?
The
Jews understand that Jesus claimed to be God and that is why they
wanted to kill Him. (John 5:18). The Godhead is one God but three
personalities, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. To be honest, people have
struggled for centuries to figure out the Godhead. The truth is that
if we could figure out everything about God, He would not be God. He
is God and we are not. The Bible teaches that the Father, Son, and
Holy Spirit are three Personalities but one God. Jesus created and
sustains the universe.
John 1:3
This
shows that all things were made through Jesus.
Colossians 1:16-18
Did Jesus
create both the visible and invisible things? Does this teach that
Jesus holds all things together?
It's not gravity that holds everything together, it's Jesus!
V.
JESUS CAME TO SHOW US WHAT GOD IS LIKE
John 14:7-9
Jesus said that he who has seen Him has seen whom? Jesus came to show
us what God is like. When you look at Jesus loving, serving, and
saving, then you see the nature and love of God.
John 1:1-4; 14-18
Jesus the Word, became flesh. From verse 18, why did He become a man?
(To
show us God)
The
"Word" signifies the mind, thoughts, intellect, emotions of a
person's entire being. (We write our thought in words).
John 1:14 This is the most incredible thing that has
ever happened in the history of the world!
The mind
of God became flesh and was walking around on the earth as we
walk! Jesus has
come from
another "realm". Notice the two story universe illustration below:
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J |
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Supernatural |
E |
Spirit |
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S |
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Natural |
U |
Physical |
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S |
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The
supernatural has entered into the natural realm in a dramatic,
final way in the person of Jesus Christ to bring men into
fellowship with God (II Corinthians 5:19).
Note: In our culture, many of us are somewhat familiar with the Gospel
story. We may be tempted to take historical accounts like the birth
and resurrection of Jesus casually, but if it is true that God became
flesh like us, this is amazing news!
VI. JESUS IS THE PERFECT EXAMPLE FOR US TO FOLLOW.
In Luke 2:52, we read that Jesus grew in all the
areas that we are to grow; mentally, physically, spiritually
and socially. The ideal balanced life. Point: Sometimes we look
at someone with a handsome or beautiful appearance and we may think
they have it all, but they may be a spiritual dwarf! Jesus wasn't a
monk who hid out in a cave either, he had a social life.
Jesus went to weddings, camping, sailing, and mountain climbing (He
was the first bare-foot water skier!). Jesus was around people showing
them how to have a joyful life and a fulfilling relationship with God.
Jesus was a man of steel (Cleaning the money changers out of
the temple; John 2:15), and a man of velvet (Holding
little children; Matthew 18:6; The "Ideal 90's guy", strong
yet
sensitive"). Jesus is the ideal role model for men and women. His
character of integrity, and life of purpose are ideal for all of us.
One of the reasons that many women were involved in the ministry of
Jesus is that they found someone who treated them with the dignity
they were created with as equals (In Jesus' time, women were treated
as property. Jesus was radically different than His culture and ours).
He gives all of us a life of balance, meaning, and purpose!
I John
2:6 This shows what being a Christian is all about. It is
more than "religion" or following some steps like an insurance policy.
Christianity is living like Christ. By studying the life and character
of Jesus, we see the way that we are to live. (Gospels show a call to
"follow Jesus Matthew 4:19, John 1:37-46). Christianity is a way of
life!
VII.
ONLY JESUS' DEATH CAN PAY FOR ALL SIN.
Romans 3:23; 6:23
How
many people have sinned? We may all try to look nice and act nice, but
we all sin and fall short. What penalty does a single sin have?
Let's assume that you sinned three times a day. Could you do three
sins a day? In one year, how many sins would you commit at three per
day? (approximately)
NOTE: This shows that you cannot earn your salvation by being good
enough Ephesians 2:8-9). Many people seem to "live good lives" but
they are still guilty of the sin of pride until they give their lives
to their Creator. Later in Lesson Four we will learn how our sins
separate us from God. That is why hell would be such a horrible place,
because God is not there. God is Love, Life, Light, etc. and to be
separated from God would be to be away from everything good. Our only
Hope is Jesus.
Romans 5:8-10
Does this passage teach that Jesus died FOR sinners? He paid the
price. Note: justified means "just-as-if I'd never sinned.
Reconciled means "to become friends again")
I Timothy 2:5
A
mediator is a "go between", a reconciler. How many mediators does God
accept? If God only accepts one mediator, are Buddha, Mohammed, or any
other religious leaders acceptable mediators according to this verse?
(see John 14:6; Acts 4:12 if needed). This is a radical concept to our
American culture. We like to have a multitude of choices. Jesus makes
a radical claim that He is the only way to be right with God. Jesus
calls you and me to make a decision.
VIII.
JESUS ROSE FROM THE DEAD AND IS STILL ALIVE.
Matthew 28:1-10; I Corinthians 15:3-8
Jesus rose from the dead and was seen by many witnesses.
Can
you think of any other religious leaders who have done this?
Acts2:32; 4:33
Was
the resurrection of Christ a major theme of the apostle's preaching?
The
apostles went from skeptics to believers, from believers to
proclaimers. What caused them to have this conviction? They said it
was the risen Christ.
Saul of Tarsus was a Jewish leader who persecuted Christians.
Something caused him to be a believer and a proclaimer. He became the
greatest missionary of all time and wrote most of the New Testament.
What caused him to change? He said it was the risen Christ.
Consider the fact that nobody was able to produce a dead body (Jews or
Romans). Would Christians hide the dead body and then die for it? The
tomb is empty!
The
resurrection proves that Jesus' claims to be God were true.
(Romans 1:4) The resurrection gives Christians victory over
death. ('Corinthians 15:50-57)
IX. JESUS WILL
JUDGE THE ENTIRE WORLD.
John 12:48
Did
Jesus say that those who reject Him and do not receive the word would
be judged (condemned)?
Other passages teach that we must all stand before Christ's judgment
throne? (Acts 10:42)
NOTE: Jesus did not come to earth to condemn but to save. However, as
the Creator and risen Son of God, He has the right to be judge also.
If He is the Creator and if He can raise Himself up from the dead,
then He can be the judge!
Summary
As
you can see, the Bible makes some incredible claims about Jesus. It
claims that He is eternal (from before the beginning of time), that He
is God in the flesh, that He created and holds the universe together,
and that only His death is able to pay for the sins of all men for all
time. The Bible also claims that He rose from the dead and will be the
judge of the world and every human being will stand before Him and
give account of their lives and the sins for which they are guilty.
As Christians, we
believe that Jesus is Lord (the President or CEO of your life). He is
not just any Lord, but the Lord. However, He gives us a free will and
it is up to us to choose to live under His Lordship and direction.
Decision
John 20:30-31, Why did John write this Gospel? I want
to ask you a question because I care about you... Do you
believe Jesus is the Son of God? Yes or No?
Homework Read the Gospel of John between now and our next
study.
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Lesson two
God's Word Is Our Guide
Sharing The good News
Review
We have
seen that Jesus is the eternal Son of God He has made it possible for
us to know God and live the abundant life.
He died
for our sins and then rose from the tomb proving He is Lord of all.
This
lesson will show that since he is Lord, His word is our only authority
(or guide). Since He is the Lord, then what He says goes!
Introduction
The Bible
is made up of 66 books; 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New.
Explain terminology of Testament/Will/Covenant.
In this
lesson we will examine which Testament we are under
today, How God gave us the Bible and what attitudes are
necessary in approaching the Word in order for us to grow
in our relationship with God.
I.
Which Testament are We Under Today?
Galatians 3:19-25 What was the purpose of the Law (Old
Testament) according to verse 19? When we read the law we learn about
sin ("Thou shalt not.. thou shalt not...") and our need for grace
(because sooner or later we break the law). None of us can obey the
law perfectly. We need grace.
What was
the purpose of the Law according to verse 24? To lead us
to Christ. His covenant has brought us the grace
that law does not provide.
Now that
Christ has come we are no longer under the Old Testament? We learn
about God and the history of Him bringing His Son through the Jews to
save the world in the Old Testament. However, the Old Testament is
fulfilled with the coming of Christ who brings us a better covenant of
grace. This is what the New Testament is all about.
(Additional verses on the Old Law: Acts 13:38-39; Romans7:7; Romans
8:2-3. Hebrews 8:6-7; Hebrews 10:9; John 1:17; Hebrews 9:15-17)
II.
The New Testament of Jesus Christ.
Matthew 28:18 Who has all authority in heaven and on earth?
John 17:7,8, 14 Notice the reoccurring theme in Jesus'
prayer for the apostles. What did Jesus tell the Father that he
gave to the apostles?
John 17:17
What did Jesus say is truth?
John 17:20
Who does Jesus pray for here? How would future disciples (us) believe
in Jesus? Note: This shows the importance of the apostles and their
written Word found in the New Testament. We believe in Jesus through
their written Word. The Apostles were
eyewitnesses of Christ and they received revelation from God. We must
beware of men claiming to be modern apostles or to have revelation
from God apart from the written Word.
Ephesians 3:2-4 Did these men write the word down when they
received it? Can we understand what these inspired men wrote down?
II
Peter 1:20-21 Did these inspired men have their own private
interpretation? How many correct interpretations are there? Note: This
is different than our culture. Many people like to say,
"There are so many different interpretations." That
doesn't mean that they are all right. There can only be one truth. You
and I must come to God's word with an open heart and search for God's
true interpretation. Point: I have found that the Scriptures dealing
with things that really matter (salvation, church, family, etc.) are
really not that hard to understand when we study the word. We can
understand the Bible.
Who inspired the men who wrote the Bible?
Review: We have seen that we are now under the New Testament
or Covenant of Jesus Christ. The New Testament is our guide. Now,
let's look at how we should approach the Word.
III.
Our Attitude Toward the Word of God
James 1:19-21 With what attitude should we receive God's
teaching? Why does James mention anger? How does anger effect our
receptivity?
What is
the written word able to do when correctly received and obeyed?
2
Timothy 3:16,17 Where does this say that scripture comes
from? How is it to be used? What is involved in the teaching
process? (teachers, students, knowledge, a learner's attitude)
Point: Christians are students of the Word all their
lives. Keep the mind set of a learner and you will always grow! What
is involved in training? (repetition, goals,
dedication, etc.)
Point: We expect this mind set in academics,
athletics, business, but in church? Christians need to get this
training mentality!
How do we
feel about correction? Why? When is correction good?
When it makes us better. it is always good when it comes from God.
Challenge: To have an attitude that seeks correction from God!
This is
radically different than the mind set of our culture, but God's
correction is always for our best.
Does the
Scripture (Bible) equip us for every good work? Do we need additional
revelations or traditions of men to make us right with God? No!
Hebrews 4:12-13 The Word of God alive! Awesome claim - not
just paper and ink. The Word is relevant for every age. We fly on
planes instead of riding camels, but our nature is still the same. The
Bible still has a message for us to teach us how to be right with God,
have a successful family, treat our neighbors, etc.
What is
the Word compared to? Have you ever felt cut from the Word? Why is it
good to be cut from God's word? (like a surgeon's scalpel, it cuts
away the bad).
Challenge: Seek to be cut from God’s Word! Radically
different than the attitude of our world, but God will always make you
better.
John 8:31-32 What does Jesus say we need to do to really be
His disciples?
What does
it mean to hold to His Word?
Is
intellectual belief enough?
Does
sincerity equal truth? (you can be sincerely wrong).
Can
religious people be wrong? That's who killed Jesus!
What
happens when we hold to his teaching and know the truth?
1
Timothy 4:16 What two areas does Paul tell Timothy to watch?
Which is
more important? Neither! Like an airplane, you need both wings to fly!
Why is it
so important to live and teach correct doctrine according to this
verse?
Acts 17:10-12
What did the Bereans do everyday? What was their attitude? How did God
feel about them checking out Paul and Silas? If God thought it was
good for them to check out Paul (the greatest missionary of all time),
do you think he wants us to check out what religious leaders say
today? (Absolutely! Always feel free to ask me or any Christian, "Will
you show me in the Word?").
Challenge: Read the Bible every day with eagerness!
Review
Is it your
understanding that we are under the New Testament today?
Note: The
Old Testament is still to be studied. (I Corinthians 10:11-12)
It is full of history, examples of godly living, and shows us what God
is like and how He dealt with people throughout. We can still learn
many useful things from the Old Testament, but we are not bound by its
teaching ( i.e. animal sacrifices, Sabbath observances, temple
worship, etc.)
Is it your
understanding that God gave his word to Jesus who gave it to his
apostles, who in turn wrote it down by inspiration of the Holy Spirit?
Decision
John 12:48 Why
is it so important that we know and follow the word?
Will you from
now on strive to go by the Bible as your guide in spiritual matters, not
by traditions of men, feelings religious leaders, but God's word? Yes or
no?
Homework: To help prepare for our next lesson, begin reading the
book of Acts. |
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Lesson Three
The Importance of
The Church
Sharing The
Good News
Review
We have seen that
Jesus is Lord (The CEO of your life!). Since he is Lord, then what He says
goes. We studied in lesson two about His word being our only guide. In
this lesson we are studying the importance of the church.
Have you ever asked, "Is there
really a difference between the church in the Bible and the churches of
today?" With so many claiming to be the church, how does one know which
one to attend?
Remember, the Bible is our
only guide. In this lesson we will examine what the New Testament teaches
concerning Gods church and how to identify and be a part of it.
I. Who Built The Church?
Matthew 16:18
Did Jesus say He
would build His church? If He built His church, then to whom does it
belong?
Colossians 1:13-14
Note: The word
"church" literally means "called out." It does not refer to a building
or a place, but to the people who have obeyed the Gospel call and have
received the forgiveness of sins. They have been called out of
darkness and sin and placed in God's church or family.
Colossians 1:18 Who is
the Head of the church?
Ephesians 1:22-23:4:4
Is there only one body? Is there only one church? (If the
church is His body, and there is only one body, then there can only be
one church).
1 Corinthians 1:10-13
Does this verse condemn religious division?
Have you ever wondered why
there are so many denominations? (About 450 in the United States)
1 Corinthians 1:10-13
This verse shows how God feels about His people setting up all
kinds of groups and it also shows how the many different groups get
started.
People following
personalities and, in time, writing Traditions have caused the
divisions.
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Denomination |
De |
Nomin |
ation |
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Latin
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Latin
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English |
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"Of'
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"Name"
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"Group" |
Point:
This is not to condemn or be cruel, but you will not find these names
or any denominational groups in the Bible. Luther was a courageous man who
stood up against the Catholic church (he protested, starting the "protestant
reformation." While I respect this man who risked his life, I don't
want to be a follower of Luther. John and Charles Wesley were two very
spiritual men who spent hours in Bible study, prayer, and writing hymns.
They helped to get people back to the Bible in a grass roots movement. The
Methodist church was formed from their Methods. It is said that the
methodist preachers helped tame the wild west! While I respect all of
these religious leaders and am willing to learn from them, I do not want
to be one of their followers. Only Jesus can save us. We should be just
Christians, nothing more, nothing less.
Romans 16:16
Do
you read of the churches of Christ in the Bible?
Does this
glorify the One who built the church?
This is
not a title, but simply signifies ownership (I Corinthians 1:2).
The
Organization of the New Testament Church
Acts 14:23
Did these inspired men appoint elders (plural) of every church
(singular)?
Acts
20:17, 28 Are the elders to be the overseers (shepherds)
of the church?
Titus
1:5-7 When Paul (an apostle) told Titus to set things in
order, did he tell him to ordain elders?
Do the
terms elder and overseer (bishop) refer to the same work? Note: The
terms elder, overseer, bishop, shepherd or pastor all refer
to the same work in the New Testament and there is always plurality in
each church.
I Timothy
3:1-7 Must an elder (bishop) be married? Must an elder
(bishop) have children? May a recent convert be an elder?
I Timothy
3:8-12 What other church minister is mentioned here?
2 Timothy
4:5 What work is Timothy told to do?
Note: In
the New Testament church every member is a minister (Ephesians 4:12).
The elders have the responsibility to shepherd the flock (Acts 20:28).
The deacons are special servants under the oversight of the elders
(Philippians 1:1). The evangelist works under the oversight of the
elders in preaching and teaching the Gospel, and equipping fellow
Christians for works of service.
Matthew
23:5-10 Did Jesus say it was wrong to wear religious type
clothes just to be seen of men? religious titles like "Father" and
"Rabbi" wrong?
Our goal
is restoration! Jesus prayed for His followers to be one (John
17:20-21). The word of God is like seed (Luke 8:11). When it is sown
in the hearts of people in whatever place or time it produces
Christians. Jesus calls us to restore, not to reform, the Church.
The Worship of the Church
Luke 22:17-20
Did Jesus command His disciples to partake of the Lord's supper? The
Lord's Supper is a time when Christians share or commune together in
remembering the cross and proclaiming the Lord's Death (I Corinthians
10:16; 11:23-26).
Acts 20:7 Did
the Christians break bread on the first day of the week (Sunday)?
Acts 2:42 What
four things did the early church continue in? What does it mean to be
devoted to these things?
I Corinthians 16:1-2
Is it God's will that His church give as each man has
prospered?
Ephesians 5:19; Colossians
3:16 Are Christians to sing? We are all God's chorus! God
does not care about how great our voice is, He looks at our heart. We
are encouraged as we sing out and worship our God and teach and
admonish one another by singing words that remind us of our God and
our Victory in Jesus.
The Importance of Involvement
In the Church
Colossians 1:18
We have already seen that the church is the body of Christ. This
shows that the church is essential to Christianity. The body needs the
head. You cannot have Christ (the Head) without being part of His
church (the body).
Ephesians 2:19-21
The church is the family of God. God is the Father and Christians
are brothers and sisters who are to care for one another. (Galatians
3:26-27, 6:2)
I Corinthians 12:12-26
Members of the church are all connected to the one Body and
they need each other. Notice the kind of care Christians are to have
for one another in verse 26. Note: Members are baptized into the body
of Christ (verse 13), the church. Romans 6:3-4 teaches we are also
baptized into Christ. Baptism is when we become a Christian, a son of
God, and at the same point we become a member of the church, the
family of God. (We will study more about this in our next lesson.)
Hebrews 10:24-25
What does God's word teach us about attending church assemblies?
What are we to do when we assemble according to this verse? Point:
Christian assemblies are not a time of meaningless cold rituals. They
are the family of God coming together to worship God and encourage
each other to live the Christian life of love and good deeds.
Matthew 28:18-20; Mark
16:15-16 The primary mission of the church is to make
disciples of Jesus Christ (save souls).
Decision
Do you understand
and agree that God wants all Christians to be united and
non-denominational? Do you understand and agree with the idea of being
just a New Testament Christian?
Hebrews 10:24-25 Why is it
so important that we attend the assemblies of the church?
Do you understand the
importance of being involved in worshipping God, and building
relationships with other members of the body of Christ?
Will you be involved in a
relationship level in the church?
Homework: Continue reading
the Book of Acts
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Lesson Four
From Darkness
to Light
Sharing
the Good News
Introduction
The lesson of salvation is
very important and because it deals with salvation, I want to ask you
some personal questions. Remember, this is not to put you on the spot,
but because I care about you.
- Do you consider yourself
to be saved? Why?
- If so, what did you do to
become saved?
- When? At what age? Where?
(revival, church, etc.)
- Were you baptized? Why?
Was this before or after you were taught you were saved?
- Was this immersion,
sprinkling or pouring?
NOTE: If they believe
they are saved, but are having a hard time understanding what you mean,
use the marriage illustration. There are things you do before you get
married (license, blood test.), but it is not until the actual ceremony
that you are married. In regards to salvation, at what point did you go
from a lost state to a saved state?
Now, let’s go to the Bible
to see what God says about salvation.
I Peter
12:9-10 "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy
nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of
him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God;
once you had not received mercy, but you have received mercy".
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Darkness |
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Light |
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Not a people |
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People of God |
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No Mercy |
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Mercy |
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Lost |
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Saved |
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Not a
Christian |
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Christian |
Notice the
contrast taking place here. What were they not? What are
they now? Those who are not a people of God and are without God’s mercy
are in darkness (lost/not a Christian). Those who are God’s people and
have received His mercy, are in the light (saved/Christians).
Point: Every person is
either in the darkness or the light. There is no twilight zone. We are
either lost or saved. In this study, we should ask the question, "Where
am I?"
I. Darkness (Lost in Sin)
Isaiah
59:1-2 "Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his
ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have separated you from
your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that
he will not hear."
- What does sin do?
(Separates us from God)
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WALL |
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God |
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Man |
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Light |
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Darkness |
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SIN |
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In order for a man to have a
relationship with God, the wall of sin must be broken down. Sin must be
forgiven. The point in time sin is forgiven is the point in time a
person is saved and brought into a relationship with God.
-
How many have
sinned? We may dress nice or act nice, but we all sin. The church is
not a place for the perfect. It is a hospital for the sick and we all
fall short. Our only hope is Jesus.
-
What does sin
produce? Death (eternal separation form God and everything good.)
-
Who is
further away from God? All are equal, all lost.
One sin
separates us from God. Therefore, a good moral life does not save you.
Only the blood of Jesus can save us.
What is Sin?
The Works of
the Flesh
Galatians
5:19-21 "The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual
immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred,
discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissentions, factions
and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did
before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of
God."
Go over each
sin and be clear on the meaning (use a dictionary if necessary). Point
out the different ways Satan exploits us (sexual sins, sins of the
heart, etc.).
What will
happen to those who practice these things? (keep us from the kingdom).
Note: God is not trying to keep us from having fun. He knows
what is best for us. All of these sins hurt others and us.
Read the
fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Why does he say, "Against such
things, there is no law?."? Because they are good for us! These come
from the "Spirit living in a Christian. All of us will find things we
struggle with when we look at thee lists of sins. This shows us our need
for Christ. Until sin is removed, we are in darkness (separated from
God).
Fruits of
the Spirit
Galatians 5:22-23 "But
the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. against such things
there is no law."
2
Thessalonians 1:7-9 "...and give relief to you who are troubled, and
to us as well. This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from
heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels. He will punish those
who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord
Jesus. They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out
from the presence of the Lord and from the majesty of his power."
What will happen to
those who do not know God or obey the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
Is it your understanding
that we must receive the forgiveness of sins or we will be lost for
eternity? (Revelations 21:8)
Matthew
28:18-20 "Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven
-and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples
of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of
the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything
I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very
end of the age.'"
- What is a disciple of
Christ? One who follows Christ. You must put Christ before family,
friends, even your own life (Luke 14:35). You must die to self daily.
(Luke 9:23) What does this mean?
- What does Jesus say we
are to do with those who have made the decision to be disciples?
- What does a disciple do
following baptism? (Matthew 28:19)
Mark
16:15-16 "He said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the
good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is
baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be
condemned.'"
- What are we to preach?
- What is the Gospel?
1
Corinthians 15:1-4 Now, brothers, I want to remind you of
the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which
you have taken your stand. By this gospel, you are saved,
if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have
believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of
first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the
Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the
third day according to the Scriptures,..."
- What is Biblical belief?
John 3:36; James 2:17-19
- What will happen to one
who believes and is baptized?
Gospel = Death for our sins, burial, resurrection!
Gospel means
"good news"!
Luke
24:45-48 "Then he opened their minds so they could understand
the Scriptures. He told them, 'This is what is written: The Christ will
suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance
and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to
all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things."
- What is to be preached to
all nations? (vs. 47)
- What is repentance? It
literally means to turn. To place yourself under the authority of God
instead of the authority of self. To turn to follow God.
2
Corinthians 7:9-1 "...yet now I am happy, not because you were made
sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you
became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by
us. Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and
leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. See what this
godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what
eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what
longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done.
At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in the matter."
- What is the difference
between Godly sorrow and worldly sorrow? (Worldly sorrow is being
sorry to get caught, but Godly sorrow is genuine).
- What kind of attitude
does Godly sorrow produce? (vs. 11)
Note: These scriptures are called the Great Commission. Christ
gave this command before he left the earth. The Book of Acts shows how
the early disciples carried out this command.
Acts 1:8
Remember, the Apostles are credible and reliable eyewitnesses to the
resurrection. The apostles are promised to receive a special baptism of
the Holy Spirit to help them in their mission.
"But you
will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my
witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of
the earth."
Acts 2:22-24
"Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man
accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did
among you through him, as you yourselves know. This man was handed over
to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help
of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But, God
raised him form the dead, freeing him from the agony of death,
because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.
- Who is Peter preaching
about? This took place on the Day of Pentecost, 50 days after the
resurrection of Christ.
- How could all of these
people have crucified Jesus?
- How are you and I guilty
of crucifying Jesus? (our sins put Jesus on the cross)
"Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this
Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." Peter has shown that
Jesus is the fulfillment of prophecies and that He is raised from the
dead.
- What is his conclusion?
(He is Lord of all and the Christ or Messiah)
Acts 2:37
"When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said
to Peter and the other apostles, 'Brothers, what shall we do?'"
-
What is the response of the
people?
Acts 2:38
"Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the
name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you
will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
- What two things does
Peter command for them to do? Repent and be baptized.
- What promises does Peter
give/ Forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit (God’s
indwelling gift to live in you and help you grow)
Acts 2:41
-
What do those who accept his
message do?
Acts 22:16
"And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and
wash your sins away, calling on his name."
- Why is Saul (apostle
Paul) told to be baptized)?
2
Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new
creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
- What does Paul say a
person is when he is "in Christ?" In Christ = New Creation (Must be in
Christ!
Galatians
3:26-27 "You are all sons of God through faith in
Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed
yourselves with Christ.
- "How does one get "in
Christ?" "baptized into Christ"
1 Peter 3:21
"...and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you
also--not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good
conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus
Christ,..."
- What does Peter say that
baptism does?
Read Romans
6:3-5 to see what happens at baptism.
Romans 6:3-5
"Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ
Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with
him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was
raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may
live a new life. If we have been united with him like this in his
death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection."
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Christ Died
for Our Sins |
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Buried
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Raised |
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New Life |
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Lost in Sin (Darkness) |
Hear Word |
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Saved |
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Believe |
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Forgiveness |
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Repent |
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Buried with Christ in
Baptism |
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(Light) |
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Confess |
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Christ is Lord |
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Read Romans 6:4 and point to
illustration above to show how we are buried with Christ in baptism.
Where does the new life
begin according to this verse? Have them read Romans 6:5 substituting
"we" with their name. Have them look at the illustration again and
repeat verse 5 with their name while illustrating their baptism).
DECISION:
?? Do you see anything
that you need to do to be right with God?
?? Do you see any
contradictions with what you were taught (as mentioned before this
study) and what we have just studied in the Bible? Remember, you cannot
be taught wrong and be saved right.
Your conversion is something
that you want to feel great about. If you do exactly what God’s word
says, you can know you are saved.
?? Have you?
You have already stated that
you believe Christ is the Son of God.
?? Are you ready to follow
Him as His disciple, and put him first?
?? Are you ready to be
baptized into Christ for forgiveness of sins and to receive the Holy
Spirit?
ANSWERING OBJECTIONS OR FALSE
DOCTRINES:
- Infant Baptism
(Began approximately third century AD)
A person must
have personal faith. (Colossians 2:12)
Children do not inherit
the sins of their parents or of others. (Ezekiel 18:18-20)
Children do not have sin.
(Matthew 18:1-4)
- "Praying Jesus into your
heart".
This is taken out of context from Revelations 3:20 which
is addressed to Christians who are lukewarm and need to let Christ
back into their lives. This doctrine began in early 1800’s in America.
If a person is still not sure
of the need for baptism:
- Use a concordance to
take them through all the Scriptures on baptism.
- Take them through all the
examples of conversion in the Book of Acts. Show what the people heard
and what they did and how they responded after receiving the message
of Christ
HOMEWORK
Continue to read the
book of Acts.
Pray every day!!
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Lesson Five
The Call
To Discipleship
Sharing The Good News
Introduction
A. Acts 11:26
- Here we have the beginning of the name. "Christian." What were
Christians called before this? (Disciples) The word "disciple" appears
in the New Testament over 260 times and the word "Christian' only
appears three.
B. Both names
are great ant he a name "Christian" glorifies God (1 Peter 4:16).
However, there are many misunderstandings in our world about what it
means to be a Christian. This study helps define Christianity. When we
understand what it means in God's word to be a disciple of Jesus Christ,
then we understand more fully what it means to be a Christian.
C. There is no
difference in the New Testament between a Christian or a
disciple of Jesus. What come to your mind when you hear the word
"disciple"? Sometimes the English dictionary defines "disciple" as a
"pupil:, but the New Testament use of "disciple is more than that. A
disciple is similar to an apprentice. He is learning to "become". In
this study we will examine some of the verses which use the word
disciple in order to better understand what it mean to be a Christian.
I. WHAT DOES JESUS
DEMAND OF HIS DISCIPLES? Mark 1:14-18
A. What
does "Come, follow me" indicate?
A disciple is a follower not just a hearer.
Jesus is the example all disciples are to follow.
B. What
does "...and I will make you," mean?
A change of transformation is going to take place. Jesus, the master,
will make us into what he wants. We must allow God to change us and the
end result will always be good. To be a disciple is to be willing to
change.
C. What
does it mean to be "...fisher of men"?
It is spiritual reproduction, disciples making disciples! The result if
a mission for life, that brings a purpose into our lives!
D. What
does, "at once they left their nets", shows in Peter
and Andrew's case Jesus was more important than their careers. We must
make the same decision.
E. What did
they do? "...and followed Him."
A decision to be a disciple must be followed by action.
II. WHAT DOES JESUS
DEMAND OF HIS DISCIPLES? Luke 9:23-26
A. Who does
this teaching "If anyone would come after me," apply
to? (Everyone! This applies to all.) Jesus will not force anyone to
follow. It must be of your own free will.
B. What
does "...he must deny himself," mean?
To deny your will and to do the will of God!!
To be a disciple of Jesus we must follow His example
What did Jesus pray for in the garden of Gethsemane? (Matthew 26:39)
What are some areas we must deny ourselves?
C. Why a
cross? "..and take up his cross daily."
A cross was an instrument of death and suffering. Jesus calls his
disciple to die to self and to be ready to take up the new
responsibilities they have as his followers.
What would be some of the
responsibilities of his followers?
How often do they have to do this?
How do we do this daily? (Everyday we must decide to follow Christ and
not self.)
D. Follow
whom? "...and follow me."
This is not a philosophy, but a person. We must follow Jesus to be
saved!
E. What if
you don't follow Him? "What good is it for a man to gain the
whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self?"
What would you lose?
III. WHAT DOES JESUS
DEMAND OF HIS DISCIPLES? Luke 14:25-33
A. What
does Jesus mean to "hate?"
It means to love less, in comparison to Him! (Matthew 10:37)
B. What
does the illustration of the tower mean?
A person must "count the cost" before he decides to follow Jesus.
C. What
does the example of the King mean?
Consider the alternatives!
There is a battle to be fought?
A person must count the cost beforehand and consider the alternatives.
Now, you have the opportunity
to reject Him or to ask for the terms of peace.
Which will it be?
Can you win with 10,000
against the 20,000 of Jesus? We can't afford not to follow Jesus! We must
make peace on His terms.
D. What
must a disciple be willing to give up? "Give up all his own
possessions".
A disciple must give up everything!
All that we have is from Him and must be used for His glory.
What are the three "Cannots"
in verses 26, 27, 33? Our closest personal relationships, our self, and
our personal possessions. We give all these things up by realizing that
they are God's and not ours and we use them all to his glory realizing
that he can take them whenever he wants.
IV. JESUS' PROMISES
ARE GREATER THAN ANYTHING A DISCIPLE WILL EVER GIVE UP! Mark 10:28-30
A. What
will happen in this life if a person has to give up something to be a
disciple of Jesus? What does this mean?
B. What
will happen later?
V. DISCIPLES WALK WITH
God. Luke 11:1-4
A. The
disciples saw the strength Jesus received from the Father through
prayer.
B. We must
learn to pray, and have a daily walk (or personal relationship) with
God.
VI. Jesus' DISCIPLES
ARE TO MAKE DISCIPLES! Matthew 28:18-20
A. What is
Jesus' command "...go and make disciples of all nations,"
To go and share with everyone. Disciples make disciples. this is God's
way to save the world.
B. Who is a
candidate for baptism?
Those who make a decision to be a disciples of Jesus.
C. After
baptism what must a disciple continue doing?
Continue growing!
DECISION:
A. Are you
a disciple (Christian/saved)?
B. If not,
are you ready to obey the Gospel and become a disciple of Jesus now?
C. Follow
Jesus all your life and you will not be sorry for all eternity!
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Lesson
Six
The Coming of The
Kingdom
Sharing The Good News
Introduction
A. The Kingdom
of God has long been the topic in discussion among religious
people.
B. In this
study we will examine predictions about the kingdom in the Old
and New Testaments, and the fulfillment of these predictions.
What comes to your mind when
you hear the word "Kingdom"? What does it take to have
a kingdom? (King, territory, subjects, rules)
I. Old Testament
Predictions (Prophets) about the Kingdom
A. Note:
The nation of Israel had a very powerful kingdom during the time of
David and Solomon, about 1000 years before Jesus' birth. After Solomon,
Israel turned against God and so God sent other nations to destroy
Israel's reign. During their time in captivity, prophets like Isaiah
spoke of the "Kingdom of God". When the nation heard these words, they
remembered their earlier years as a strong nation with a strong king.
The Prophets taught that the "kingdom of God" would return and be better
than any kingdom they had ever known The Jews expected a glorious
kingdom to be restored like in the days of Solomon.
B. Isaiah
2:1-4 (750 BC)
1. When is this
event going to take place? "In the Last Days"
2. What kind of
people will take part? "All nations"
3. Where is this
going to take place? "Jerusalem"
4. Notice in verse
4, a teaching will come forth to instruct God's people how to walk in
"his paths." God has always wanted His people to live in a
great relationship with Him.
C. Daniel (550
BC)
1. Daniel 2:44 How long
will this kingdom be? "Endure forever"
2.
Daniel 7:18 How long will the saints possess it? "Possess it
forever"
II. New
Testament Predictions of the Kingdom
A. John the
Baptist
1. Matthew 3:1-2 How did
John instruct people to prepare for the kingdom? "Repent"
What does it mean to repent? (To turn, change, give your life over to
God)
2. Matthew 3:2
What else did John teach about the kingdom'? "It is
near" (almost here)
B. Jesus
1. Matthew 4:17 What did
Jesus say about the Kingdom? "It is near" (at hand,
almost here)
2. Mark 9:1 When does
Jesus say the Kingdom will come? "Lifetime of some of the
disciples" (some of the people to whom He was talking to
would see the kingdom of God come before they died)
3. Mark 9:1 How did Jesus
say the kingdom word come? "With Power"
4. Luke 17:20-21 Where
would this kingdom be? "Within You"
It is not a physical
kingdom. A spiritual kingdom "in your heart")
5.John 3:17
a. How does
one see the Kingdom of God (3:3)? "Born again"
b. How does
one enter the Kingdom of God (3:5)? "born of water and the
spirit"
6. Matthew 16:13-19 The
Kingdom and the church are the same.
a. What is Peter
told he would be given? "the keys to the kingdom"
b. The
church is the kingdom built on the truth that Jesus is the
Christ (I Cor. 3:11).
7. Luke 24:44-49
a. What was to be
preached to all nations? "Repentance and forgiveness of
sins"
b. Where was
this to begin ? "At Jerusalem"
C. Luke
23:50-51 What was Joseph of Arimathea still waiting for?
"the Kingdom of God"
D. Review
the predictions
III. The
Fulfillment of the Old and New Testament Predictions about the Kingdom
Acts 1-2
A. Acts 1:1 -
12 Jesus spent His last 40 days with the Apostles before His
ascension.
1.1:3
What was the subject of their conversation? "the kingdom of
God"
2.1:6
Why did the apostles ask about the kingdom?
3.1:8
What would the apostles receive? "Power" (Remember
Mark 9:1)
4. 1:4, 12
After Jesus ascended, where did the apostles go? "Jerusalem"
(Remember Isaiah 2:2; Luke 24:47)
B. Acts 1:13-20 A
new apostle is selected
1. Why? Judas is dead
2. Only "some" of the
disciples were still alive to see the kingdom come with power
(Remember Mark 9:1).
C. Acts 2 The
Kingdom of God is established!
1. Acts 2:1-4 It came with
"power" (Mark 9:1)
2. Acts 2:5 Where was this
taking place? "In Jerusalem" (Remember Isaiah 2:2;
Luke 24:44-49)
3. Acts 2:5 What kind of
people were there? "from every nation"
4. Acts 2:17 What time
period did Peter call this?"the last days"
(Isaiah 2.2) Date was
approximately 33 A. D. John the Baptist and Jesus had said "the
Kingdom is near" (Matthew 3:1-2, 4, 17)
5. Acts 2:37 "Cut
to the heart" "The Kingdom is within you" Luke 17:20-21)
6. Acts 2:38 Peter has
"the Keys to the Kingdom" and he tells them how to
get in the Kingdom (Matthew 16:19.
7. Acts 2:38
"Repentance and Forgiveness of sin" (Luke 24:44-49)
8. Acts 2:38, 41
"New Birth...water and spirit" (John 3:1-7)
9. Acts 2:39, 47
"Eternal Kingdom" (Daniel 2:44, 7:18)
Conclusion
A. The church is the
Kingdom of God on earth. Christ is presently reigning from His
throne in Heaven. When a person becomes a Christian, he is added to the
Kingdom of Christ. (Colossians 1:13) Christ's Kingdom is not of this
world, and it will last forever. (John 18:36, Luke 17:20-21)
B. Acts 2:42
What are citizens of the Kingdom and members of His church, to
be devoted to?
1. The apostle's teaching
- The New Testament teaching.
2. Fellowship - Involved
in a relationship level with God and one another
3. The Lord's supper - The
first day of every week we all remember our Lord
4. Prayer - Constant
communication with our Father in Heaven
C. Matthew 6:33
What will it mean for you to seek first the kingdom? (Make decisions
based on the kingdom. Put the kingdom before the things of the world
including personal relationships, self, and possessions. Remember, it is
always good for you if you put God and His church as your first
priority.)
DECISION:
Do you understand that the
kingdom of God has been established since the beginning of the church?
Do you understand we are added
to His kingdom when we are born again? Will you strive to put the Kingdom
first in your life?
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Lesson Seven
The Holy Spirit
Sharing The Good News
Introduction
The Holy Spirit is one of the personalities of the godhead. He is
Deity. Much confusion and misunderstanding has occurred over the past two
centuries regarding the Holy Spirit and His work. In this study we will
consider the Biblical teaching about the Holy Spirit and see that there
are three separate manifestations of the Spirit - the indwelling, the
Baptism of the Spirit, and miraculous manifestations.
I. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A PERSON
A. The Holy Spirit has emotion.
Ephesians 4:30: What does this teach about the Spirit?
B. Actions of the Holy Spirit are those of a person.
- The Scriptures teach us He speaks. (1 Timothy 4:1)
- He hears. (John 16:13)
- He wills or determines. (I Corinthians 12:11)
- He teaches. (John 14:26)
- He guides. (John 16:13).
II. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS DIVINE
A. He is everywhere (Psalm 139:7-10), and
all-powerful. (Romans 15:19)
B. Hebrews 9:14 Does this passage refer to the
Spirit as eternal?
C. Genesis 1:1-2 Was the Spirit of God active in
creation?
D. Matthew 28:19 Who are the three personalities
of the Godhead?
III. THERE ARE THREE MEASURES (MANIFESTATIONS) OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
The Miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit
(There is only one Holy Spirit, but He has functioned in different ways
for different reasons.)
A. The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
Acts 2:38, 5:32, Romans 8:9-11, 1 Corinthians 6:18-20
Is the indwelling a promise for all who become Christians?
The purpose for the Indwelling
Ephesians 1:13-14 What is His purpose here?
Ephesians 3:16 What is His purpose here?
Romans 8:26-27 Does He help in prayer?
(Note: This is His groaning, not noises made by a human.)
Acts 2:38 Is the indwelling Spirit given to every believer upon being
baptized into Christ?
Galatians 5:16, 22-25 What does the Spirit produce in a Christian
who yields to the Spirit's influence?
B. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
Acts 1:4-5 Was the baptism of the Spirit a command or a promise?
Joel 2:28, Acts 2 1-4, 14-18 Was the baptism of the Spirit
predicted and fulfilled?
John 1:33 Who was baptized in the Holy Spirit?
There are only two accounts of Holy Spirit baptism recorded
in Scripture. The purpose of the Holy Spirit Baptism was to mark the
beginning of a significant event.
1. It marked the beginning of the church and the
first gospel sermon preached to the Jews. (Acts 2)
2. It marked the beginning of the gospel being taken to the
Gentiles and demonstrated God's acceptance of them. (Acts 10
and 11)
God demonstrated with a miraculous occurrence the introduction of both
Jews and Gentiles into the kingdom of God. Once "all flesh" was shown to
be acceptable to God, the purpose of baptismal measure of the Holy Spirit
baptism ceased.
The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is not:
1. Not a promise to everyone. (Acts 1:8)
2. Not administered by man. (Matthew 3:11)
3. Not received by laying-on of hands. (Acts 8:17-18)
4. Not conversion or salvation. (Acts 10:46-48, 11:15)
5. Not inspiration. (Acts 10:48, 11:14) The preached message
saves.
6. Not water baptism. (Matthew 3:11, Acts 10:47-49)
Baptism Today:
Ephesians 4:4-5 How many valid baptisms are there today?
Which one is valid?
1. John's baptism was no longer valid after the death of Christ.
(Acts 19:1-5)
2. Baptism of the Holy Spirit occurred only twice -
- On Pentecost, AD 33 upon the apostles only (Acts 1:2, 4, 26,
2:1-4, 7, 14, 37, 43)
- On Cornelius' household to convince the Jews that the Gentiles
could now be allowed into the Kingdom of God (This happened around AD
43, Acts 10-11)
3. By AD 60, Paul said there was only one baptism.
(Ephesians 4:4-5)
4. After AD 60, Peter says water baptism for salvation
is still valid.
(I Peter 3:21)
5. Answer: The one baptism is water baptism in
the name of Jesus for forgiveness of sins and to receive the promise of
the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38, Matthew 28:19)
The place of Holy Spirit Baptism:
|
Cross |
Pentecost
33 A.D. |
Cornelius
43 A.D. |
Ephesians
4:4-5 |
I Peter 3:21
60 A.D. |
|
John's baptism |
Water-Holy Spirit (2) |
Holy Spirit-Water (2) |
AD 60
(only 1) |
Water is the "one" |
C. The Miraculous Gifts of the Spirit
1. Mark 16:20 What was the < | |
