SALAVATION

YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN

1. ALL MEN ARE SINNERS

Romans 3:33 For al have sinned, and come short of the glory of God
Ecclesiastes 7:20 Not a just man on earth, that … sinneth not
Isaiah 64:6 All our righteousness’s are as filthy rags
Romans 3:10 There is none righteous, no not one
James 2:10 Whoever shall offend in one point (of law), guilty of all
1 John 1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves.

2. SALVATION BY GRACE (UNDESERVED MERCY), NOT WORKS:

Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith, not o yourselves --- not of works
Mark 10:25-27 Who can be saved? With men it is impossible
Romans 3:20 By deeds of law shall no flesh be justified in his sight
Romans 11:6 And if by grace, the faith of Christ and not by works of the law
2 Timothy 1:9 Saved us, not according to our works, but according to his grace
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done.

3. SALVATION THROUGH JESUS:

Acts 4:12 None other name … whereby we must be saved
1 Timothy 2:5 One mediator between God and men … Christ Jesus
John 3:16 God … gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should
… have everlasting life.
John 3:36 He that believeth not the Son shall not see life
John 8:24 If ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins
John 10:1 He that entereth not by the door … but climbeth up some other way … is a
thief and a robber.
John 10:9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in … be saved.
John 14:6 I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by
me.
1 Corinthians 3:11 For other foundation can no man lay than … Jesus Christ.
1 John 5: 12 He that hath not the Son of God hath not life

4. BELIEVE ON JESUS:
John 3:16. Whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 11:25-26 I am the resurrection and the life … whosover believeth in me shall never die
Acts 16:31 Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved
Romans 10:9-10 If thou shalt … believe in thine heart … thou shalt be saved.
1 John 5:1 Whosoever believeth Jesus is the Christ is born of God.

5. RECEIVE JESUS:
Revelation 3:20 If any man … open the door, I will come in to him
John 1:12 But as many as received him … power to become sons
Galatians 4:6 God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your heart
Ephesians 3:17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith.

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6. ETERNAL SALVATION:
A.) You can never lose it:
Psalm 37:24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord unholdeth him
with his hand.
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son …. hath everlasting life
John 6:37 Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out
John 10:28 I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any
man pluck them out of my hand.
Romans 8:38-39 I am persuaded that (nothing) shall be able to separate us from the love of
God … in Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 3:11-15 (If works are ) wood, hay and stubble … shall be burned, yet he himself shall
be saved.
1 Corinthians 5:5 Destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved
Hebrew 13:5 I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee
2 Timothy 2:13 Thou we believe not, yet he abideth faithful
1 John 5:13 Ye may know that ye have eternal life.

B.) But the Lord will chasten you for wrongdoing:

Psalm 89:30-34 If they break my statues … I will visit with the rod (but) my loving-kindness
will I not utterly take away.
Hebrew 12:5-8 Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son who he receiveth
Revelation 3:19 As many I love, I rebuke and chasten.

7). RECEIVING JESUS GUARANTEES ETERNAL LIFE IN HEAVEN:

Romans 6:23 The gift of God is eternal life though Jesus Christ
John 11:26 Whosoever … believeth in me shall never die
John 14:2-3 In my Father’s house are many mansions
1 Peter 1:3-4 Incorruptible inheritance reserved in heaven for you
1 John 5:11 God hath given to us eternal life … in his Son.

8). THE RESULTS OF BEING BORN AGAIN:

A. Spiritual rebirth makes you a new creature:
John 3:3 Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
Mathew 18:3 Be converted and become as little children
John 1:13 Born, not of blood, nor of the will of man, but of God
Romans 12:2 Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind
2 Corinthians 5:17 If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature
1 Peter 1:23 Born again, not of corruptible seed, but … by the word of God.

B. You will desire to work for Jesus:

Ephesians 2:10 We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus into good works
Titus 2: 14. (Jesus) gave himself for us (to) purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous
of good works.
9. SIN BRINGS ABOUT SPIRITUAL DEATH; BUT JESUS DIED IN OUR PLACE, TAKING OUR PUNISHMENT:
Isaiah 59:1 Your iniquities have separated you and your God
Romans 6:23 The wages of (penalty for) sin is death
Romans 5:8 While we were sinners, Christ died for us.
2 Corinthians 5:21 He hath made him (Jesus) to be sin for (in place of) us

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 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he (will) forgive and cleanse us
1 John 2:1-2 We have an advocate … Jesus Christ. He is the propitiation for … the sins of
the whole world.

10. IN THE MOSAIC LAW, BLOOD IS PAYMENT FOR SIN, JESUS’ DEATH PAID THAT PRICE IN FULL:
Leviticus 17:11 It is the blood that maketh atonement for the soul
Hebrews 9:22 Without shedding of blood is no remission (of sin)
Mathew 26:28 My blood … shed for the remission of sins
1 John 1:7 The blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin.
John 1:29 The Lamb of God, which taketh away sin of the world
Ephesians 1:7 We have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins
1 Peter 1:18-19 Ye were redeemed … with the precious blood of Christ.

11. ALL MEN ARE NOT SAVED SONS OF GOD IN THEIR NATURAL STATE:
Ephesians 2:2-3. 12 Ye were children of disobedience, children of wrath, aliens and strangers
without Christ.
Mathew 7:13 Wide is the gate … that leadeth to destruction, and may … go in thereat
John 3:19 Light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light.
John 8:44 Ye are of your father the devil.
John 8:47 Ye hear (God’s words) not, because ye are not of God.

12. THE SELF-RIGHTEOUS REFUSE JESUS’ SALVATION:

(See Mathew 5:20; 9:10-13; Luke 18:9-14; John 5:39-44; Romans 10:3;) I John 1:9-10

13. NEW TESTAMENT EXAMPLES OF SALVATION:

Luke 19:1-10 (Conversion of the corrupt tax-collector, Zaccheus)
Acts 9:1-22 (Conversion of Apostle Paul) (See also Acts 6:8-14; 7:57-60; 8:1-4; 26:9-11,)
Acts 10:1-8 (Conversion of Roman centurion Cornelius)
Acts 13:1-12 (Conversion of governor of Cyprus, Sergius Paulus)
Acts 16:13-34 (Conversion of the merchant Lydia and Roman Jailor).

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 JESUS CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD
1. JESUS’ FATHER, GOD:
A. God has always existed and always will:
Exodus 3:14 God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM
Psalm 90:2 From everlasting to everlasting, thou art God
Psalm 102:24b-27 The heavens … shall perish, but thou shalt endure thou art the same, and thy
years shall have no end.
Revelation 1:8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending … which is, and which
was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

B. God is an immortal, invisible Spirit:

John 4:24 God is a Spirit: they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth
1 Timothy 1:17 Unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory

C. He fills the entire universe:

2 Chronicles 2:6 Who is able to build him an house (temple), seeing the heaven and the
heaven of heavens cannot containing him?
Psalam 139:7-10 Whither shall I flee from they presence? Thou art there
Acts 7:48-49 Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool
Acts 17:24-29 In him we live, and move, and have our being

D. He is the only true God:

Isaiah 43:10-11 I am he: before me there was not God … neither shall there be after me.
Isaiah 44:6,8 I am the first, and the last; beside me there is no God
Isaiah 45:21-22 There is no God else beside me … I am God, and there is none else.

E. He created the world, the universe, and man:

Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth
Genesis 1:26-27 God created man in his own image … male and female
Genesis 2:7 God formed man of the dust of the ground.

F. His understanding and power are infinite:

Psalm 139:4 There is not a word in my tongue, but, lo. O Lord, thou knowest it
altogether.
Psalm 147:5 Great is our Lord … his understanding is infinite.
Isaiah 40:13-18 All nations before him are as nothing … less than nothing, and vanity.
Isaiah 40:28 There is no searching of his understanding
Romans 11:33 O the depth of … the wisdom and knowledge of God!

G. God is far beyond man’s limited ability to understand:

Isaiah 55:8-9 As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are … my thoughts (higher)
than your thoughts.
H. God has a wonderful and beautiful plan for man:
1. Corinthians 2:9 Neither have entered into heart of man, the (wonderful) things God
hath prepared for them that love him.
I. But sinful man is estranged from God:
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 Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God
Ecclesiastes &;20 Not a just man on earth, that … sinneth not
Isaiah 59:2 Your iniquities have separated between you and your God.
J. God loved man and wanted him to have salvation:
Mathew 18:14 It is not the will of (God) that one … should perish
2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is … not willing that any should perish

2. WHY GOD SENT JESUS INTO THE WORLD:

A. God sent Jesus to show us a picture of what He is like:

Colossians 1:13,15 His dear Son: who is the image (perfect picture) of the invisible God
Hebrew 1:3 The brightness of his (God’s) glory, and the express (clearly
communicated) image of his person.
2 Corinthians 4:4 Christ, who is the image to God
B. In knowing Jesus, we can know and understand God:
John 8:19 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father
John 14:7-9 He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.

C. God showed us His love by sending Jesus to earth:

John 3:16 God so loved the world, that he gave his only … Son
Romans 5:8 God commendeth his love towards us, in that …. Christ (came into the
world and) died for us.
1 John 4:8-10 The love of God…. God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that
we might live through him.

D. Jesus showed us God’s love by dying for us:

John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his
friends.
E. Jesus’ death paid the price for our sins, and if we believe in Him, we receive God ‘s gift of
Salvation:
I Timothy 1:15 Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners
Luke 19:10 The Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost
(see also Mathew 1:3)
John 3:17 God sent not his Son into the world to condemn world; but that the
world through him might be saved.
Romans 5:6-11 We were reconciled to God by the death of his Son
I John 4:14 The Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.
Revelation 5:9 Thou wast slain, and redeemed us to God by thy blood
(See also 1 Corinthians 15:3).

3 MORE REASONS WHY GOD SENT JESUS INTO THE WORLD:

A. To proclaim the truth:
John 18:37 For this cause came I into the world; that I should bear witness unto the
truth.
B. To destroy the power of the Devil:

I John 3:8 For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy
the works of the devil.
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 Hebrews 2:14-15 That … he (Jesus) might destroy him that had the power of death, that
is, the devil.
C. To know our human weaknesses and to sympathize with us:
Hebrew 2: 16-18 Made like unto his brethren … in that he himself hath suffered being
tempted, he is able to succor them.
Hebrews 4:15 (He was) touched with the feeling of our infirmities:
Luke 2:40 (growing up); Luke 4:2 (hunger);
Luke 8:23 (need for sleep); Luke 9:58 (poverty); John 4:6-7 (weariness
and thirst); Mathew 26:37 (sorrow).

4. JESUS TEACHING AND PERSONAL EXAMPLE:

A. Jesus’ teaching were with power and authority:

Luke 4:32 They were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power (see
also Mathew 7:28-29).
John 7: 46 Never man spake like this man.
B. Jesus’ Message was love:
Mathew 22:37-39 Thou shalt love the lord … thou shalt love they neighbor
John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give you, that ye love one another
John 15:12 Love one another, as I have loved you.

C. Jesus humanity:
Philippians 2:5-8 (He) made himself of no reputation, and took … the form of a servant …
humbled himself.
Mathew 11:29 Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart
Luke 22:27 I am among you as he that serveth
John 13:3-15 (Jesus’ humble example of washing His disciples’ feet)

D. He befriended and won sinners and outcasts of society:

Mathew 9:9-13 (Jesus ate with publicans and sinners)
Luke 7:36-48 (Jesus confounded a Pharisee by allowing a sinful) woman to touch,
wash, and kiss His feet as He was eating .
Luke 19:2-10 (Jesus ate with and forgave a despised tax collector)
Luke 23:39-43 (Jesus forgave the penitent thief dying with Him)
John 8:1-11 (Jesus forgave the woman caught in adultery).

5. JESUS, THE WAY TO SALVATION:

A. Jesus is the way to God:
John 1:29 The Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world
John 14:6 I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father,
but by me.
Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name …
whereby we must be saved.
I Timothy 2:5 One mediator between God and men, Christ Jesus
I John 5:11 God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son

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B. Jesus has the power to give us eternal life:
John 5:26 As the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have
life in himself .
John 1:4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men
John 3:16 Whosoever believeth in him … have everlasting life.
John 5:24 He that believeth hath everlasting life, and … is passed from death unto
life.
John 6:40 Every one which … believeth on him (has) everlasting life
John 6:47 He that believeth on me hath everlasting life
John 6:48,50-51 I am the living bread … if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever.
John 10:28 I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish
John 11:25 I am the resurrection, and the life
John 17:2-3 This is the life eternal, that they might know Jesus Christ.
Romans 6:23 The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ
Hebrews 5:9 (He) Jesus became the author of eternal salvation
I John 5:12-13 He that hath the Son of God … have eternal life.

C. When we receive Jesus, God dwells in our hearts

1 John Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in
him, and he in God.

D. God’s “sheep” will hear Jesus, voice and come to Him:

John 5:23 All men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father
John 6:45 Every man that… learned of the Father, cometh unto me
John 8:42 If God were your Father, ye would love me (Jesus)
John 10:3, 5, 27 My sheep hear my voice … and they follow me

E. What rejecting Jesus means:

John 3:36 He that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God
bideth on him
John 3:18 He that believeth not (on Jesus) is condemned already
John 3:19-20 This is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men
loved darken rather than light.
John 8:24 If ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
John 12:48 He that rejecteth me … hath one that judgeth him: the word … shall
judge him in the last day.
1 John 2:22-23 Whosoever denieth the Son … hath not the Father.

6. JESUS, THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD:

A. Jesus is the true Light:
John 1:9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world
John 8:12 I am the light of the world: he that followeth men shall not walk in darkness.
Mathew 4:16 The people which sat in darkness saw great light … in the region and
shadow of death light is sprung up.
Luke 2:30-32 A light to lighten the (nations)
1 John 2:8 The darkness is past, and the true light now shinneth

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B. The Devil and evil men hate the true Light:

7. JESUS’ LIFE AND RESURRECTION ARE FACTS:

A. The facts of His life and death were recorded by eyewitnesses:

2 Peter 1:16 We have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we (told of the )
coming of Jesus, but were eyewitnesses.
Luke 1:1-2 Those things which are most surely believed among us … they (told) us,
which were …. eyewitnesses.
John 19:25,34-35 We are witnesses of all things which he did
B. His resurrection from the dead is a fact:
Acts 1:2-3 He showed himself alive after his passion (death) by many infallible
proofs, being seen of them 40 days
Acts 2:31-32 Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses
Acts 13:30-31 God raised him (Jesus) from the dead : and he was seen many days of
them …. his witnesses
1Corinthian 15:3-6 He rose again … he was seen of above 500 brethren at once at once.
C. His resurrection proves that He is divine:
Romans 1:3-4 Jesus Christ our Lord was …. declared to be the Son of God with Power
… by the resurrection from the dead.
8. EYE WITNESS ACCOUNTS IN THE BIBLE TELL US THAT JESUS
A. … was crucified:
(see Mathew 27:27:50; Mark 15-15-37; Luke 23:23-49; John 19:16-30.)
B. … was laid in a grave for three days:
(see Mathew 27-57-66, Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:31-42; Acts 13:28-29)
C. .. was resurrected from the dead:
(see Mathew 28:-1-18 ; Mark 16:1-14; Luke 24:1-43; John 20-21:all; Acts 2:23-24, 3:14-
15, 10:36-41; 13:29-31; 1Corinthian 15:3-8; Revelation 1:18.
D. … was then taken up into heaven:
(see Mark 16:19; Luke 24:50-51; Acts 1:4-11).
9. OLD TESTAMENT MESSIANIC PROPHECIES – FULFILLED IN THE BIRTH, DEATH, AND LIFE OF
JESUS CHRIST.
Luke 24 : 44 All things … fulfilled (in Scriptures) concerning me
A. His lineage foretold:
Genesis 18:18 (The promised seed of Abraham – Mathew 1:1)
(Also compare Genesis 17:5-7 and Galatians 3:16,19)
(Also compare Genesis 28:13-14 and Acts 3:25-26.)
Genesis 17:15,19 (The promised seed of Isaac – Mathew 1:1-2)
Numbers 24:17 (The promised seed of Jacob – Mathew 1:2; Luke 3:34)
Genesis 49:10 (He was to descend from the tribe of Judah – Luke 3:33)
Isaiah 9:6-7 (Heir to the throne of David – Mathew 1:1; Acts 2:29, 30)
B. His birth and childhood:
Micah 5:2 (His birthplace, Bethlehem in Judah, prophesied Mathew 2:1-6; Luke
2:4-7; John 7:42).
Isaiah 7:14 (Born of virgin-Mathew 1:18; Luke 1:26-35)
Jeremiah 31:15 (Massacre of infants – Mathew 2:16-18)
Hosea 11:1 (God’s Son to be called out of Egypt – Mathew 2:13-15)
C. His ministry and rejection:

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 Isaiah 53:3 (His ministry in Galilee-Mathew 4:12-16)
Psalm 110:4 (An eternal priest like Melchizedek-Hebrews 6:20; 7:11-16; 20-26).
Isaiah 53:3 (Rejection by the Jews – John 1:11; 5:43; Luke 17:25; 23:18)
Psalm 2:1-2 (“Rulers took counsel against him” – Acts 4:25-28); 3:14-15, 17) (See
also Mathew 27:1; Luke 24:20; John 11:47, 53.)
Zechariah 9:9 (His triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey: John 12:12-14;
Mathew 21:11).
D. His betrayal:
Psalm 41:9 [Betrayed by a close friend who ate of his bread – John 13:18;
Mark 14:10; Mathew 26:14-16, 20-23; Mark 14:43-45].
Zechariah 11:12 [Sold for 30 pieces of silver – Mathew 26:15; 27:3-10]
[Money then used to buy a potter’s field-Mathew 27:3-10]
Psalm 109-7-8 [Judas’ office taken by another – Acts 1:15-16, 20-22].
E. His persecution and crucifixion:
Psalm 27:12 [False witnesses to accuse the Messiah-Mathew 26:60-61]
Isaiah 53:7 [Silent when accused – Mathew 26:62-63; 27:12-14]
Isaiah 50:6 [Smitten and spat on – Mark 14:65; 15:19; John 18:22; 19:1-3]
Isaiah 53:4-5,8 [Suffered for our sins (See also Daniel 9:26)
Mathew 8:16-17; Romans 4:25; 1Corinthians 15:3]
Isaiah 53:12 [To die with sinners – Mathew 27:38; Mark 15:27-28; Luke 23:33]
Psalm 22:16 and
Zechariah 12:10 [Hands and feet pieced-crucifixion was not practiced by the ancient
Jews – John 19:37; 20:25 -27.]
Daniel 9:25 [Exact year of his death predicted: 30 AD]
Psalm 22:6-8 [Mocked while dying – Mathew 27:39-44; Mark 15:29-32].
Psalm 69:21 [Given gall and vinegar – John 19:29; Mathew 27:34, 48]
Zechariah 12:10 [His side pieced – John 19:34]
Psalm 22:18 [Soldiers cast lots for his clothes – Mark 15:24; John 19:24]
Psalm 34:20 [Not a bone to be broken (see also Exodus 12:46) – John 19:33]
Isaiah 53:9 [Buried with the rich – Mathew 27:57-60]
F. His resurrection:
Psalm 16:10 [His resurrection – Mathew 28:9; Luke 24:36-48; Acts 2:23-31]
Psalm 110:1 [Enthroned in heaven (See also Psalm 2:22; Isaiah 53)- Acts 2:32-35; Acts 13:27-
29]
10. JESUS, THE SON OF GOD:
A. The Old Testament states God has a Son:
Psalm 2:7 The Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son
Proverbs 30:4 Who hath established al the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is
his son’s name?
Daniel 3:25 I see four men … the fourth is like the Son of God (See also Daniel 7:13-14).
B. JESUS DECLARED HE WAS BOTH THE SON OF GOD AND CHRIST THE MESSIAH:
Mathew 16:15-17 Thou art the Christ, the Son of … God. Jesus answered … Blessed art thou … my
Father (revealed it unto you).
Mathew 27:43 He said, I am the Son of God (See also John 19:7.)
Mark 14:61-62 Art thou Christ, Son of the Blessed? And Jesus said, I am
John 4:25-26 Woman said … Messiah cometh, which is called Christ.
Jesus said, I that speak unto thee Am He.

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 John 9:35-38 Because I said, I am the Son of God. (See also John 3:16-18,34-36-36;
5:19-20, 25-26; 4:40; 11:4)
C. He was declared to be both the Son of God and Christ the Messiah by others:
Mathew16:15-17 Peter …. said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of …. God
Mathew 27:54 The centurion (said), Truly this was the Son of God
John 1:34 [John the Baptist:] I bear record this is the Son of God
John 1:40-41 Andrew .. said, We have found the Messias … the Christ
John 6:67:69 We … are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of God
John 11:27 [Martha] said … I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which
should come into the world.
D. Even the devils knew He was the Son of God:
(See Mathew 8:29; Luke 4:33-34, 41).
E. Jesus called God His Father:
John 5:17-18, 20 Jesus … said that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.
John 8:54 My Father … of whom ye say, that he is your god (See also Luke 10:22;
22:29; John 5:22-31, 36-37; 8:16, 19, 26-28, 38, 49; 14:13; 16:28; 17:1-
26; 20:17).

F. God anointed Jesus with Power:

Mark 1:27 With authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do
obey him.
Luke 4:16-21 Spirit of the Lord is upon me … he hath anointed me
John 3:34 God giveth not the spirit by measure unto him
Acts 10:38 God anointed Jesus … with the Holy Ghost and with power.

11. JESUS’ RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD:

A. Jesus’ closeness to God, His Father
John 1:18 The only begotten Son … is in the bosom of the Father
John 16:15 All things that the Father hath are mine (See also John 15:15)
B. He was with God in His preexistence:
John 17:5; 24 The glory which I had with thee before the world was
John 8:42 I proceeded forth and came from God … he sent me
2Corinthians 8:9 Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor. (see also John
1:1; 13:3; 16:28; 17:8, 18).
C. God loves Jesus and is pleased with Him:
Mathew 3:16-17 This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
John 8:29 I do always those things that please him (See also Luke 9:35; John 15:10)
D. Jesus is one with His Father:
John 10:30 I and my Father are one
John 10:38 The Father is in me, and I in him.
John 14:9-10 He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.
E. Jesus is God, He is one with the Father:
Isaiah 9:6 A child is born … and his name shall be called … the Mighty God, the
everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace
John 8:56-58 Before Abraham was, I am (Compare with Exodus 3:6, 13-14.)
John 20:28-29 Thomas said unto him, “My Lord and my God” (Jesus then commended
him for believing)
Colossians 3:11 Christ is all, and in all

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1 Timothy 3:16 God was manifest in the flesh
Hebrew 1:8 Unto the Son be said, Thy throne, O God, is for ever
Revelation 1:8, 11;
22;12-13 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending … which is, and
which was …. the Almighty (Compare with Isaiah 44:6.)
F. God the Father has preeminence:
John 14:28 My Father is greater than I
John 20:17 I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God
(See also Ephesians 1:17).
I Corinthians 3:23 Ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s
I Corinthians 11:3 The head of Christ is God.
I Corinthians 15:24-28 Then shall the Son also himself be subject unto Him … that God may be
all in all (see also John 15:1)

G. Jesus total obedience to the Father.

John 4:34 To do the will of him that sent me … finish his work
John 5:19 Then Son can do nothing … but what he seeth not mine own will, but
the will of the Father.
John 5:30 I can of mine own self do nothing … I seek not mine own will, but the
will of the Father.
John 8:28-29 I do nothing of myself … I do always those things that please him (God)
John 12:49-50 I have not spoken of myself; but the Father … gave me a
commandment, what I should say … so I speak
John 14:31 As the Father gave me commandment, even so I do
Philippians 2:6-8 (Jesus) humbled himself … obedient unto death (See also John 8:26, 38,
42; 14:10, 24).

H. Jesus submitted and obeyed utterly:

Mathew 26:39 He … fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father … not as I will, but
as thou wilt (See also Mark 14:35-36, Luke 22:41-44).
42, 44.

12. THE AUTHORITY AND POWER GOD HAS GIVEN JESUS:

A. Jesus is seated on the right hand of God in heaven:
Mark 16:19 Was received into heaven, and sat on right hand of God
Luke 22:69 Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God
(See also Mathew 26:64)
Romans 8:34 Christ … who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh
intercession for us.
Ephesians 1:20 He raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the
heavenly places.
Hebrew 1:3 He … sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.
Revelation 3:21 I overcome, and am set down with my Father in his throne. (See also
psalm 110:1; Acts 2:32, 34; 7:55-56; Colossians 3:1; 1 Peter 3:32).

B. God has given all authority to Jesus:

Mathew 28:18 All power (authority) is given unto me in heaven and earth

11
Daniel 7:13-14 There was given him dominion, and glory and a kingdom, that all
nations … should serve Him (See also Hebrews 1:8)
John 3:35 The Father … hath given all things into his hand
John 5:26-27 (God gave Jesus) authority to execute judgement
Ephesians 1:20-22 Set him … far above all principality, and power, and might, and
dominion … and hath put all things under his feet.
Philippians 2:9-10 At the name of Jesus every knee should bow
Colossians 2:10 (Jesus) is the head of all principality and power
1 Peter 3:22 Angels and authorities and powers … made subject to him.
Revelation 17:14 Lord of lords, and King of kings (see also 1 Timothy 6:15)
(See also Mathew 11:27; 26:53; John 3:31; Hebrews 1:4, 6;)

C. Jesus is the King, and the kingdom of heaven is His:

(See Mathew 13:41; 16:28; 27:11; 25:31, 34; Luke 22:29-30; John 18:33-37; Colossians 1:13)
D. Jesus is Lord:
John 13:13 Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye shall well; for so I am
Acts 2:36 God hasd mde that same Jesus … both Lord and Christ
Philippians 2:11 Every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord
Revelation 19:16 King of kings, and Lord of lords (See also 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14).

E. God has made Him judge of the world:

Mathew 16:27 The Son of man shall come … and then he shall reward every man
according to his works
Mathew 25:31-46 The Son of man … shall … sit on the throne of his glory: and before him
shall be gathered all nations
John 5:22 The Father … hath committed al judgement unto the Son
Acts 10:42 Ordained of God to be the judge of (the living) and dead
Romans 2:16 God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ.

F. Jesus will also sit in Judgement of Christians

Romans 14:10 We shall all stand before the judgement seat of Christ
2 Corinthians 5:10 We must all appear before the judgeemnt seat of Christ
Revelations 2:23 I am he which searcheth the … hearts: and I will give unto every one of
you according to your works.
Revelation 22:12 My rewards is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be

13. JESUS, THE CREATOR:

A. God created the universe through Jesus:
John 1:1-3, 10 In the beginning was the word (Jesus) … and all things were made by
him … the world was made by him
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth
Colossians 1:8-10 By him (Jesus) were all things created … all thing were created by him,
and for him.
Hebrews 1:2 His Son … by whom also he made the worlds
Hebrews 1:8, 10 Unto the Son he saith … Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the
foundation of the earth.

B. Jesus upholds all matter in the universe:

12
Colossians 1:17 He is before all things, and by him all things consist
Hebrew 1:3 Upholding all things by the word of his power.

C. All the fullness of God dwells in Jesus:

Colossians 1:19 That in him (Jesus) should all fullness dwell
Colossians 2:2-3 Christ …. in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
Colossians 2:19 In him (Jesus) dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead.

D. A description of Jesus’ immortal resurrected body:

Revelation 1:13-17 The Son of man … eyes as a flame of fire … countenance as the sun (skin
glowed like white-hot metal).

14. TITLES OF JESUS

 Immanuel – “ God with us” (Isaiah 7:14)
 Counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6)
 Son of the living God (Mathew 16:16)
 The Bridegroom (Luke 5:34-35; John 3:29)
 The Lamb of God (John 1:29, 36)
 The Messiah, the Christ (J 6:35, 48, 51)
 Rabbi, Son of God, King of Israel (John 1:49)
 The Bread of Life (John 6:35, 48, 51)
 The Light of the World (John 8:12, 9, 5)
 The Door (John 10:7,9)
 The Good Shepherd (John 10:11)
 The resurrection and the life (John 11:25)
 Master and Lord (John 13:13)
 The way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6)
 The true vine (John 15:1)
 The Lord of glory (1 Corinthians 2:8)
 The spiritual Rock (1 Corinthians 10:4)
 The Head (Colossians 2:19)
 The blessed and only potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords (1 Timothy 6:15)
 The captain of our salvation (Hebrews 12:2)
 The author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2)
 Great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20)
 A living stone (1 Peter 2:4)
 A Chief cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6; Ephesians 2:20)
 The Shepherd and Bishop of your souls (1 Peter 2:25)
 The Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4)
 Faithful witness, Prince of the kings of the earth (Revelation 1:5)
 Alpha and Omega, the Almighty (Revelation 1:8)
 The Lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David (Revelation 5:5)
 Faithful and True (Revelation 19:11)
 The word of God (Revelation 19:13)
 King of kings, and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16)
 The root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star (Revelation 22:16).

THE HOLY SPIRIT

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1. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S PART IN OUR SALVATION:
A. We must be born of and made alive by the Spirit
John 16:8-9 (The Holy Spirit reproves and convicts men of their sin)
John 3:5-8 Except a man be born of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth (gives life)
Titus 3:5 He saved us by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.
(See also 2 Thessalonians 2:13; Ephesians 2:1).

B. A measure of God’s Spirit is given to us when we’re saved:

2 Corinthian s 1:22 Who hath sealeth us, and given us the earnest (deposit) of the Spirit.
Ephesians 1:13-14 After ye believed, ye were sealed with the holy Spirit
Ephesians 4:30 The holy Spirit … whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

C. The Holy Spirit assures us that we are saved:

Romans 8:16 Spirit beareth witness that we are children of God
1 John 3:24 We know he abideth in us, by the Spirit
1 John 4:13 Hereby know we that … he (dwelleth) in us, because he hath given us of his
Spirit.

D. The Holy Spirit testifies Jesus is the truth:

John 15:26 The Spirit of truth … shall testify of me (Jesus)
John 16:14 He (the Spirit) shall glorify me

2. THE BAPTISM (OVERFLOWING) OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

A. Jesus gives us the Holy Spirit:
Mathew 3:11 He (Jesus) shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost
Luke 24:49 I send the promise of my Father upon you … ye (shall) be endued (clothed) with
power from on high
John 7:38-39 Out of his belly flow rivers of living water … he Spirit
John 14:16 I will pray the Father and he shall give you (a) Comforter
John 16:7 I will send him (the Comforter) unto you
Acts 2:1-4 (Spirit poured out on Christians on day of Pentecost)

B. When Christians receive the baptism of the Spirit:

Acts 8:15-17 (Samaritans baptized with the Spirit after salvation)
Acts 19:2 Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? They said, We have not
Acts 10:44-46 (Cornelius’ household was filled with the Holy Spirit at the same time they
received Jesus).

C. Receiving the Holy Spirit

Acts 19:1-2 Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?
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Luke 11:9-13 If ye know how to give good gifts … how much more shall (God) give Holy Spirit
to them that ask him?
1 Corinthians 6:19 Your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost (See also 1 Corinthians 3:16)
Ephesians 5:18 Be filled with the Spirit.

D. The Spirit is often received through “Laying on the hands”.

Acts 8:15-17 (Peter and John laid hands on the Samaritan believers)
Acts 19:6 (Paul laid hand on the Ephesians believers)

3. THE PURPOSE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM:

A. The Holy Spirit anoints us with power to witness:
Acts 1:8 Ye shall received power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you and ye shall
be witnesses unto me
Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord hath anointed me to preach the gospel (See also Isaiah
61:1-2)
John 15:26 The Spirit of truth … shall testify of me (Jesus)
Acts 4:29, 31 The were filed with the Holy Ghost and spake the word of God with boldness.
Acts 5:32 Ye are his witnesses, and so is also the Holy Ghost
Micah 3:8 I am full of power by the Spirit of the Lord … to declare to Israel his sin.

B. Transforms us into a new person:

1 Samuel 10:6 The Spirit will come upon thee, and thou shalt be turned into another man.
Psalm 51:10-13 (Creates a clean heart and a right spirit)

C. Gives us a closer relationship with Jesus:

Ephesians 5:18-19 Be filled with the Spirit … singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.
(See also John 14:16-18)
D. Minding the things of the Spirit brings life and peace:

Romans 8:5-7 They that are after the Spirit mind things of the Spirit
Galatians 5:16-17 Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill lust of the flesh

E. The Spirit brings forth virtues in our lives:

Galatians 5:22-23 The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…

Romans 5:5 The love of God is shed in our hearts by Holy Ghost.
Romans 14:17 Righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost
Romans 15:13 Abound in hope through power of the Holy Ghost
1 Corinthians 12:4-11 (The Spirit gives us different kinds of spiritual gifts)

F. The Holy Spirit comforts us:

John 14”16, 26 The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost

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John 16:7 I will send (the Comforter) unto you
Acts 9:31 Walking in the comfort of the Holy Ghost
Romans 8:1 There is no condemnation of them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk … who
walk … after the spirit
1 Peter 4:14 If ye be reproached, happy are ye, for the Spirit of God resteth upon you.

G. The Holy Spirit and prayer:

Romans 8:26-27 We know not what we should pray for … but he Spirit
Jude 1:20 Building up yourselves … praying in the Holy Ghost

H. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth:

John 16:13 When the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth.
1 John 5:6 The Spirit beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth (See also John 14:17;
15:26; 16:13).

4. GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

A. The Spirit gives us wisdom and guidance
Mark 13:11 It is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost
Luke 12:11-12 The Holy Ghost shall teach you … what ye ought to say
John 14:26 Holy Ghost shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance
(See also 1 John 2:27)
John 16:13 The Spirit of truth will guide you into all truth
1 Corinthians 2:9-10 God hath revealed them to us by his Spirit … yea, the deep things of God.
1 Corinthians 2:12 We have received the Spirit that we might know the things that are freely given
to us of God.
1 Corinthians 2:13 We speak words which the Holy Ghost teacheth
1 Corinthians 2:8 (The Spirit gives word of wisdom, word of knowledge)
Ephesians 1:17 May God give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation
2 Timothy 1:13-14 Hold fast sound words … keep by the Holy Ghost

B. The Holy Spirit gives us the gift of prophecy

1 Corinthians 12:7, 10 To one is given by the Spirit … prophecy
John 16:13 Spirit of truth will show you things to come
Acts 2:17-18 I will pour out my spirit … yours sons and your daughters shall prophesy (see
also Joel 2:28-29)
2 Peter 1:21 Prophecy came … (When) men of God spakes as they were moved by the Holy
Ghost.

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 PRAYER

1. HOW TO PRAY:
Luke 11:1-4 Luke, teach us to pray … when ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven (See
also Mathew 6:9-13).

A. Praise and thank the Lord before petitioning Him:

Psalm 95:2 Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving

Psalm 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his court with praise: be
thankful … and bless hhis name.
Philippians 4:6 With thanksgiving let your requests be made known

B. If you have the gift of tongues, pray and praise in it:

I Corinthians 14:2.4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh … unto God (and) edifieth
himself.
Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with … supplication in the Spirit.
Jude 1:20 Building up your … faith, praying in the Holy Ghost.
I Corinthians 14:39 Forbid not to speak with tongues.
C. Be specific and ask for what you need:
1King 3:5, 9-10 (God told Solomon:) Ask what I shall give thee
Mathew 7.7-8 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find Mathew
Mathew 21:22 Whatsoever ye ask in prayer … ye shall receive
John 16:24 Ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.
Philippians 4:6 Let your requests be made known unto God
James 4:2 Ye have not, because ye ask not.

D. Pray to the Father in Jesus’ Names:

John 14:13-14 Whatsoever ye ask in prayer … ye shall receive.

John 16:23 Whatsoever ye … ask Father in my name, he will give (See also John 15:16;
16:26; Ephesians 2:18.).
A. Prayer also includes you listening to God:

1 Samuel 3:9-10 If ye call thee … say, “Speak, Lord; for they servant heareth”
Genesis 24:63 Isaac went out to mediate in the field at eventide.
Numbers 9:8 Stand still, and I will hear what the Lord will command
Psalm 4:3-4 Lord will hear … commune with your heart … and be still
Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God.
(See also Ecclesiastes 5:1; Zephaniah 1:7; Zechariah 2:13.)
B. Listen by Meditating on God’s Word:

Joshua 18 Thou shalt mediate therein (the law) day and night
Psalm 1:2 In his law doth he meditate day and night
Psalm 119: 148 (Before) the night watches … I meditate in thy word
1Timothy 4:15 Meditate on these things; give thyself wholly to them
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C. Be diligent to pray, don’t be lazy:

Isaiah 64:7 There is none that called upon thy name, that stirreth himself to take hold of
thee.
Daniel 9:13 All this evil is come upon us: yet made we not our prayer
John 1:6 What meanest thou, O sleeper? Arise, call upon God
Luke 22:46 Why sleep ye? Rise and pray
Luke 18:1 Men ought always to pray, and not to faint

2. CONDITINS TO GETTING PRAYER ANSWERED:

A. Pray in faith:
Mathew 21:21-22 Have faith … doubt not … whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall
receive
Mark 11:24 When ye pray, believe that ye receive and ye shall have.
Romans 4:21 Being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform
Hebrews 11:6 He that cometh to God must believe that he is
James 1:5-7 Let him ask in faith, nothing wavering

B. Obey God and do His will:

John 9:31 If any man … doeth God’s will, him he heareth

John 15:7 if ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what he will, and it
shall be done unto you.
1John 3:22 We ask, we receive, because we keep his commandments (See also Isaiah 58:69)
C. Submit yourself to God and pray according to His will:
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God
Mathew 6:10 Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven
Luke 22:42 Nevertheless not my will, but thine (God’s), be done
John 5:30 (Jesus): I seek not mine own will, but will of (God)
1 John 5:14 If we ask anything according to his will, he heareth
D. Pray humbly:
Daniel 9:18 We do not present our supplications (because of) our righteousness, but for
they great mercies.
Luke 18:10-14 The publican (said), God be merciful to me a sinner
James 4:6 God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble

3. PRAYER PROMISES:

2 Peter 1:4 Are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises
Remind God of His promises praying:
Genesis 32:6-12 Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed (and prayed, reminding God of His
promises of protection)
Nehemiah 1:4-11 (Nehemiah prayed:) Remember … the word that thou commandest they servant
Moses.
B. Some promises to claim in prayer:

Psalm 37:4-5 Delight thyself in the Lord: and he shall give thee desires

18
Isaiah 65:24 Before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear
Jeremiah 33:3 Call unto me, and I will answer thee and shew thee great and might things
John 15:7 Ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
John 15:16 Whatsoever ye ask in my name … (God will give it)
Psalm 81:10 Open they mouth wide, and I will fill it

C. The Lord promises to hear prayer:

2 Samuel 22:7 In my distress I called … he did hear my voice

Psalm 34:15, 17 The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth
Psalm 72:12 He shall deliver they needy when he crieth
Psalm 91:15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him
D. God’s blessing for those who seek Him:
2 Chronicles 26:5 As long as he sought the Lord, God made him to prosper
2 Chronicles 31:21 He (sought God) with all his heart, and prospered.

4. HOW NOT TO PRAY:

A. Don’t be disobedient:
Deuteronomy 1:43-45 Ye would not hear, but rebelled against (Word) of the Lord … the Lord would
not hearken to your voice.
Deuteronomy 3:23-27 (Moses request to enter Canaan denied) (See also Numbers 20:12).
1 Samuel 28:5-6 When Saul enquired of the Lord, the Lord answered him not (see the reason in
1 Samuel 28:15-19).
Isaiah 1:15 When ye make many prayers, I will not hear
Micah 3:4 Then shall they cry unto the Lord, but he will not hear … they have behaved
themselves ill (See also 1Samuel 13:8-14, 14:37; Hosea 5:6).

B. Don’t be disbelieving

Job 9:16 If I called, and he answered me; yet would I not believe he had hearkened unto
my voice
Mathew 17:19-20 Why could not we cast him out? Because of your unbelief.
Hebrew 11:6 Without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must
believe that he is.

C. Don’t harbor unrepented sin in your heart:

Psalm 68:18-19 if regard iniquity in my heart, Lord will not hear

Isaiah 59:1-2 Your sins have hid his face … that he will not hear
James 5:16 Confess your faults … and pray one for another.

D. Don’t doubt or disobey the Word:

Proverbs 1:24-28 The shall they call upon me, but I will not answer
Proverbs 28:9 He that turneth ear … his prayer shall be abomination
Zechariah 7:12-13 Therefore … they cried, and I would not hear.
James 1:5-7 Let not that man (Who doubts) think he shall receive anything of the Lord.

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E. Don’t hold resentment in you heart:

Mark 11:25 When ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought

F. Don’t have selfish motives:
James 4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon
your lusts.
Deuteronomy 23:4-5 They hired against thee Balaan .. curse thee, (But) the Lord would not hearken
unto Balaan.

G. Don’t pray in pride, but sincerely and humbly:

Mathew 6:5-6 Not be as hypocrites (who) love to pray (publicity)

Luke 18:10-4 God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are

H. Don’t pray long, repetitive prayers:

Ecclesiastes 5:2 God is in heaven … let they words be few

Mathew 6:7-8 When ye pray, use not vain repetitive
Mathew 23:14. Woe unto you (who) for a pretence make long prayer
Joshua 7:6, 10 (God told Joshua to stop praying and get up)

I. What happens when we don’t pray:

James 4:2 Ye have not, because ye ask not (See also Isaiah 64:7)

5. PRIVATE PRAYER AND UNITED PRAYER:

A. Private prayer:
Mathew 6:6 When thou prayest, enter into thy closet … in secret
Mark 1:35 He … departed into a solitary place, and there prayed
Mark 6:46 He sent them away, he departed to a mountain to pray
Luke 5:16. He withdraw himself into the wilderness, and prayed

B. United Prayer:

Mathew 18:19-20 Where two or three are gathered together in my name

Acts 1:13-15 These all [120 people] continued with one accord in prayer … in an upper room
Acts 4:23-31 [After a beating, Peter and John held a prayer meeting]
Acts 12:12 House of Mary … many were gathered together praying

C. “Watching” in prayer:

1 Samuel 15:11 It grieved a Samuel; and he cried unto the Lord all night
Mathew 26:40-41 Could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray
Luke 6:12 He (Jesus) continued all night in prayer to God

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Acts 12:5 Peter was kept in prison … prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto
God for him
Ephesians 6:18 Praying always … and watching thereunto

6. WHEN TO PRAY:

A. Be in a continual attitude of prayer:

1 Chronicles 16:11 Seek the Lord … seek his face continually
Proverbs 3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct
Luke 18:1 Men ought always to pray
Luke 21:36 Watch ye therefore, and pray always
1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing (See also Ephesians 6:18)
B. Pray in time of special need:

Psalm 50:15 Call upon me in the day of trouble

Psalm 27:8 When thou sadist, “Seek ye my face”
Psalm 107:19 They cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saveth
Hebrews 4:16 Let us come boldly, unto the throne of grace that we may … find… help in the
time of need
James 5:13 Is any among you afflicted? Let him pray (See also 2 Chronicles 14:11-12; Psalm 34:4,6)

C. Morning prayer:

Psalm 5:3 In the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee

Psalm 63:1 O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee
Psalm 119:147 I [rose before] the dawning of the morning, and cried
Proverbs 8:17 Those that seek me early shall find me
Mark 1:35 In the morning, rising up before day, he … prayed

D. Evening prayer:

Mark 6:46-47 (Jesus) departed to mountain to pray … even was come

Genesis 24:63 Isaac went out to meditate in the field at eventide
Psalm 55:17 Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray
Daniel 6:10 Daniel … kneeled three times a day, and prayed

E. Prayer in the night:

Lamentations 2:19 Arise, cry out in the night … pour out thine heart like water before the face of
the Lord
Psalm 42:8 In the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer
Psalm 63:5-6 When I … meditate on thee in the night watches
Isaiah 26:9 With my soul have I desired thee in the night
Luke 6:12 (Jesus) continued all night in prayer to God
Acts 16:25 At midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises (See also Psalm 4:4; 119:55,62)

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7. WHOLEHEARTED FERVENT PRAYER:

A. Stir yourself up; call on God wholeheartedly:

1 Samuel 15:11,16 It grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the Lord all night
Isaiah 64:7 None … stirreth up himself to take hold of thee
Jeremiah 29:13 Ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye search for me with all your heart (See also
Deuteronomy 4:29)
Lamentations 2:19 Arise, cry out … pour out thine heart like water
Luke 22:44 Being in an agony, he (Jesus) prayed more earnestly
Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly … in time of need
Hebrews 5:7 (Jesus) offered up prayers … with strong crying and tears
James 5:16 Effectual fervent prayer … availeth much (See also Psalm 61:1-2; 119:10)

B. Praying fervently for others:

Romans 15:30-31 Strive together with me in our prayers to God

Colossians 4:12 Epaphrus … always laboring fervently for you in prayers

C. Don’t give up; be persistent:

Genesis 32:23-32 [Abraham repeatedly asks God to spare Sodom for the sake of the righteous.
God agrees, if there are 10]
Genesis 32:24-28 [Jacob refuses to let angel go until he blesses him]
Luke 11:5-10 Because of his opportunity (insistence) he will give
Luke 18:1-8 [Widow and unjust judge] Lest by her continual coming
Romans 12:12 Continuing instant (steadfast, preserving) in prayer
Ephesians 6:18 Praying always … watching thereunto with perseverance
James 5:16-18 The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man (See also 1 Kings 18:2, 41-45)

D. Challenge God to keep His word and answer prayer:

2 Kings 2:14 [Elisha challenges :] “Where is the God Elijah?”

Isaiah 45:11 Concerning the work of my hands command ye me (See also Exodus 32:11-14)

E. Sometimes you can change God’s mind through prayer:

Genesis 19:17-21 I will overthrow this city (Zoar), for the which thou hast spoken
Exodus 32:9-14 Moses besought the Lord … and the Lord repented of the evil which he [had]
thought to do
2 Kings 20:1-6 [King Hezekiah was told he would die, but when he prayed, God changed his
mind and healed him]
Amos 7:1-6 The Lord repented for this: This also shall not be
John 3:4-10 [Nineveh cried out and repented, so God spared it]

F. Repeating your fervent prayer:

1 Kings 18:42-43 Elijah … put his face between his knees …. Go seven times
Mathew 26:44 (Jesus) prayed the third time saying the same words
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G. Fasting and prayer:
Ezra 8:23 So we fasted and besought our God for this: and he was intreated of us
Joel 2:12 Turn ye to me with all your heart, and with fasting
Mathew 17:21 This kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting
(See also Deuteronomy 9:9,18; Acts 13:2-3; 1 Corinthians 7:5

8. OTHER POINTS ON PRAYER:

A. Jesus meditates and prays for us:

Romans 8:34 Christ … who is at the right hand of God … maketh intercession for us
Hebrews 7:25 He ever liveth to make intercession for [us] (See also Luke 22:23; John 17:9)

B. The Holy Spirit prays for us:

Romans 8:26-27 (The Spirit) maketh intercession for the saints

C. Be thankful to the Lord for answering prayer:
Psalm 116:1-2,7 I love the Lord, because he hath heard my (prayers) (See also Psalm 30:1-4; 66:16-
17,19-20)

D. Prayer is precious:

Psalm 141:2 Let my prayer be set before thee as incense

Proverbs 15:8 The prayer of the upright is his delight
Revelation 5:8 Golden vials full of odours are the prayers of the saints (See also Revelation 8:3)

E. Giving thanks before eating:

1 Samuel 9:13 People will not eat till he … bless the sacrifice
Mathew 14:19 Looking up to heaven, he blessed and brake … the loaves
Mathew 26:26 Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it , and gave
Mark 8:6 He (Jesus) took the seven loaves, and gave thanks
Acts 27:35 He (Paul) took bread, and gave thanks to God
1 Timothy 4:3-5 [Food] sanctified (cleansed) by prayer

9. WAYS GOD ANSWERS PRAYERS:

A. Answer to prayer greater than request:

1 Kings 3:7-14 [Solomon prayed for wisdom and God granted him much more]
Ephesians 3:20 Able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask
Acts 12:1-16 [Church prayed for Peter, but they were surprised at his miraculous release
from prison]

B. Answer to prayer delayed (which tests our faith):

Job 30:20 [Job’s prayer not answered immediately]

Psalm 40:1 I waited patiently for the Lord, and he … heard my cry
Jeremiah 42:4, 7 [Jeremiah’s prayer answered 10 days after he prayed]
23
Lamentation 3:25-26 The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him (see
also Psalm 62:1.)
Daniel 10:2,12-13 [The answer to Daniel’s prayer was delayed for 21 days]
Luke 16:7-8 [Answer] his elect … though he bear long with them
Hebrews 10:36 Patience … after ye have done will of God, receive
Revelation 6:10-11 How long, O Lord? [Answer:] Rest yet a little season

C. Answer to Prayer different from request:

Deuteronomy 3:23-27 [Moses allowed to view the Promised Land, not enter]
John 11:1-3, 6 [Jesus is asked to heal Lazarus, but lets him die, then resurrects him] (see also
John 11:14-15, 32, 37, 43-45.)
2 Corinthians 12:7-9 [Paul prays for healing; instead is given grace to bear his affliction]
(See also 2 Kings 5:9-13.)

D. Beware about insisting that God grant request:

Psalm 106:15 He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul
(See 1 Samuel 8:4-22; 12:1, 13, 16-19 about when the Israelites asked God for a
king.)

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 FAITH

1. WHAT IS FAITH?

A. FAITH IS BELIEVING GOD:

2 Corinthians 4:18 We look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen …
which are eternal
2 Corinthians 5:7 We walk by faith, not by sight
Hebrews 11:27 By faith he … endured, as seeing him who is invisible (See also Romans 8:24)

B. Faith is a substantial and real thing:

Hebrews 11:1 Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen
2 Timothy 1:5 The unfeigned faith that is in thee.

2. THE IMPORTANCE OF FAITH:

A. We are saved by faith:

John 3:16 Whosoever believeth in Him (Jesus) should … have everlasting life
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life
Luke 7:47-50 Thy sins are forgiven. Thy faith hath saved thee
Acts 10:43 Whosoever believeth in him … receive remission of sins
Acts 16:31 Believe on … Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved
Romans 5:1 Being justified by faith, we have peace with God
Galatians 3:26 Ye are all children of God by faith in Christ Jesus
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith
Ephesians 3:17 That Chirst may dwell in your hearts by faith

B. We must live by faith:

Galatians 2:20 Life which I live, I live by faith of (Jesus)
Hebrews 10:38 The just shall live by faith (See also Romans 1:17)
1 John 5:4 This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith

C. We cannot please God without faith:

Hebrews 11:6 Without faith it is impossible to please him (God)
Romans 14:23 Whatsoever is not faith is sin

D. Faith gives us the strength to keep going:

Psalm 27:13 I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness
Romans 1120 Thou standest by faith
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 We faint not … while we look not at things which are seen, but at things which
are not seen

3. THE WORD TELLS US TO HAVE FAITH:

A. In God and Jesus:
2 Chronicles 20:20 Believe in the Lord your God
Mark 11:22 Jesus saith unto them, Have faith in God
John 6:28-29 Believe on him (Jesus) whom he (God) hath sent
25
John 14:1 Ye believe in God, believe also in me
1 John 3:23 His commandment, that we should believe on Jesus (See also Acts 20:21)

B. We are to trust the Lord day by day:

Psalm 37:5 Commit way into the Lord; trust also in him
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart
Jeremiah 17:7 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is

C. Have faith in the word, God’s promise to us:

Mark 1:15 Believe the gospel
2 Peter 1:19 We have a … sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do (See also Acts 15:7)

4. HOW TO OBAIN FAITH:

A. Faith is a gift from God:

Hebrews 12:2 Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith
Romans 12:3 God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith
1 Corinthians 12:7, 9 To another (is given) faith by the same Spirit
Galatians 5:22 The fruit of the Spirit is … faith
Ephesians 6:23 Peace be to brethren … and love with faith, from God

B. Pray for it:

Mark 9:24 Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief
Luke 17:5 [They] said unto the Lord, increase our faith

C. Read the Word:

Romans 10:17 Faith cometh by hearing … the word of God
John 20:30-31 These are written that ye might believe
Acts 15:7 Hear the word of the gospel and believe
Romans 15:4 Written … that we through … Scriptures might have hope

D. The Word nourishes and builds up our faith:

Acts 20:32 The word of his grace, which is able to build you up
1 Timothy 4:6 Thou shalt be … nourished up in the words of faith

E. Read the Word a receptive, believing spirit:

Luke 8:15 They … which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and
bring forth fruit
Hebrews 4:2 The word … did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it
Hebrews 11:13 [Past saints died in faith believing and embracing the promises of the word]

F. Listen to testimonies of faith:

1 Kings5:1-5 [The Hebrew maid’s witness inspires Naaman’s faith]
John 4:28-30, 39 Many of the Samaritans … believed on him (Jesus) for the saying of the woman,
which testified
John 17:20 Them which believe on me through their word
(See also 2 Peter 1:16, 19.)

G. Miracles glorify God’s power and often inspire faith:

26
Acts 4:4 [After the lame man was miraculously healed (Acts 3:1-13, 16)] many of them
which the word believed … 5,000 men
Acts 8:5-6, 14 [Samaritans believed Philip and received the word] seeing the miracles which he
did
Acts 9:36-42 [Many believed in the Lord when Peter raised the dead.]
(See also 1 Kings 18:30-39; 2 Kings 5:9-17.)

H. Faith grows:
2 Thessalonians 1:3 We thank God for you … your faith growth exceedingly

I. Becoming strengthened and steadfast in the faith:

Acts 14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the
faith
1 Corinthians 16:13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith … be strong
Colossians 1:23 Continue in the faith, grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the
hope of the gospel
Colossians 2:6-7s Rooted and built up in him, stablished in the faith

J. We should have faith when we pray:

Matthew 21:21-22 Have faith, and doubt not … whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall
receive
Mark 11:24 What thing soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them
Romans 4:21 Being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform
Hebrews 10:22 Let us draw near … in full assurance of faith
James 1:5-6 Ask of God … ask in faith nothing wavering

5. THE REWARDS, BLESSINGS, AND FRUITS OF FAITH:

Hebrews 11:6 He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him

A. Access to God:
Romans 5:2 We have access by faith into grace
Ephesians 3:11-12 We have access … by the faith of him

B. God’s love:
Psalm 32:10 He that truseth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him
John 16:27 The Father loveth you, because ye … have believed

C. Righteousness and purity:

Genesis 15:6 He (Abraham) believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness
(See also Romans 4:1-5)
Acts 15:9 Purifying their hearts by faith
Romans 4:8-9 Faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness
Romans 9:30 The righteousness which is of faith
Philippians 3:9 That which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by
faith

D. The Holy Spirit:

27
John 7:38-39 He that believeth on me [Jesus] out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water …
the spirit
Galatians 3:14 We … receive the promise of the Spirit through faith

E. Protection against the devil’s attacks and lies:

Ephesians 6:16 Shield of faith … quench all the fiery darts
1 Thessalonians 5:8 Putting on the breastplate of faith and love

F. Rewards in heaven:
John 14:1-3 Believe in me … I go to prepare a (mansion) for you
Hebrews 11:13,16 These all died in faith … he (God) hath prepared for them a city

G. Conviction to witness our faith:

2 Corinthians 4:13 Having spirit of faith … we believe, and therefore speak

H. Spiritual strength:
Psalm 27:13 I had fallen, unless I had believed to see
Psalm 3124 He shall strengthen your heart, ye that hope in the Lord
Isaiah 26:4 Trust ye in the Lord … for in the Lord is … strength
Isaiah 30:15 In confidence (faith) shall be your strength
1 John 5:4 This is the victory that overcometh the world … faith

I. Stability:
2 Chronicles 20:20 Believe in the Lord … so shall ye be established
Psalm 125:1 They that trust in the Lord … cannot be removed

J. Joy:
Psalm 33:21 Our hearts shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name
Psalm 146:5 Happy is he … whose hope is in the Lord his God
Proverbs 16:20 whoso trusted in the Lord, happy is he
Acts 16: 34 He … rejoiced, believing in God
1 Peter 1:8 Ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy

K. Understanding:
Hebrews 11:3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God

L. Protection:
Psalm 5:11 [They] put their trust in thee … thou defendest them
Psalm 115:1 Trust in the Lord: he is their help and their shield
Proverbs 29:25 Whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe
Proverbs 30:5 (God) is a shield unto them that put trust in him
Jeremiah 39:17-18 I will surely deliver thee … because thou hast put thy trust in me
Hebrews 11:31s By faith the harlot Rehab perished not with them that believed not
(See also Joshua 2:1-22; 6:17,22-25.)

M. Provision:
Psalm 33:18-19 Them that hope in his mercy … keep alive in famine
Psalm 37:3 Trust in the Lord … so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed

28
Jeremiah 17:7-8 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord … he shall not (worry) in drought,
[nor] cease from yielding fruit
Malachi 3:10 Prove me herewith, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you
out a blessing
N. Healing:
Psalm 42:11 Hope thou in God … who is the health of my countenance
Mark 5:25-29,34 If I … touch his (Jesus’) clothes, I shall be whole. [Jesus said:] Thy faith hath
made thee whole
Mark 10:51-52 Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole
Luke 8:49-50 Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole
James 5:14-15 Prayer of faith shall save the sick … Lord shall raise him

O. Desires of your heart:

Psalm 37:4-5 Trust in the Lord … and he shall give desires of thine heart

P. Resurrection from the dead:

John 11:25-26 He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live ( see also 1
Corinthians 15:12-20)

6. TRUSTING IN THE LORD’S PROMISES:

A. You trust in God’s promises because you trust in Him:

Matthew 8:5-10The Centurion said, Lord … speak the word only
Luke 5:4-5 We have toiled all the night, and taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will
let down the net
2 timothy 1:12 I know whom I believed, and am persuaded he is able
Hebrews 10:23 Hold fast the profession of your faith without wavering; for he is faithful that
promised
Hebrews 11:11 [Childless Sara] judged him faithful who had promised (See also 2 Chronicles 6:14-15)

B. You trust he is able to fulfill His promises:

Romans 4:20-24 Being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able to perform
2 Corinthians 1:20 All the promises of God in him (Jesus) are yea, and amen
Ephesians 3:20 He is able to do exceeding … above all that we ask

C. God is able to do anything:

Jeremiah 32:27 I am the Lord … is there anything too hard for me?
Jeremiah 32:17 Ah Lord God! There is nothing too hard for thee
Matthew 19:26 With God all things are possible
Luke 1:37 With God nothing shall be impossible
Romans 4:17 God … calleth those things which be not as though they were

D. You trust Him because He has not failed in the past:

1 Kings 8:56 There hath not failed one word of his good promise (See also 2 Chronicles 6:15)

E. You know He will not go back on His word:

Numbers 23:19 Hath he said, and shall not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall not make it good?
Psalm 119:49 Remember the word … upon which though hath caused me to hope
Hebrews 6:18 It (is) impossible for God to lie
29
F. FAITH VS. NATURAL REASONING:

1 Samuel 16:7 The Lord seeth not as man seeth, man looketh on the outward appearance …
Lord looketh on the heart
Psalm 118:8 It is better to trust in the Lord than … in man
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in Lord; and lean not unto thine own understanding
Isaiah 11:3 He shall not judge (according to) the sight of his eyes
Isaiah 55:8-9 Neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord
Jeremiah 17:5 Cursed be the man that trusteth in man [and not in God]
John 20:29 Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet … believed
1 Corinthians 1:21 The world by wisdom knew not God
1 Corinthians 2:5 Your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God
1 Corinthians 2:14 The natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit
2 Corinthians 5:7 For we walk by faith, not b y sight

8.THE POWER OF FAITH:

A. Genuine believing faith has tremendous power:

Mark 9:23 If thou canst believe, all things are possible
Luke 7:50 Thy faith have saved thee [woman who touched His hem]
Luke 18:42 Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee
John 14:12 He that believeth on me … greater works … shall he do
Acts 6:8s Stephen, full of faith … did greater wonders and miracles
James 5:15 The prayer of faith shall save the sick

B. “Faith as a grain of mustard seed”

Matthew 17:20 Say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place
Matthew 21:21-22 Ye shall not do this which is done to fig tree
Mark 11:22-23 Have faith in God … say unto this mountain, Be removed
Luke 17:6 Say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up

C. Faith trusts God to do miracles:

Numbers 13:26-30 [Caleb had faith to conquer the promised land]

Joshua 14:6,12 [Caleb had the faith to drive out the giants]
1 Samuel 17:37 [David said:] The Lord will deliver me (from Goliath)
Luke 18:27 Things … impossible with men are possible with God
Hebrews 11:11 Through faith, Sarah received strength to conceive … when she was past age
Hebrews 11:29 By faith they passed through the Red Sea
Hebrews 11:30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down
Hebrews 11:33-35 Through faith … stopped the mouth lions … women received their dead raised
to life again …

D. Answer to prayer depends on our faith; the lord can do anything, but we need to believe:

Matthew 9:27-30 Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said, Yea. [Jesus said:] According to
your faith be unto you

30
Matthew 8:13 As thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee
Matthew 17:19-20 Why could not we cast him out? Because of unbelief
Matthew 21:21-22 If ye have faith, and doubt not … ye shall receive

E. Believing, expectant faith will be rewarded:

Matthew 15:28 Great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt
Mark 5:22-23 [Jairus said:] Come … that she may be healed. (See also 5:35-36, 41-42)
Mark 9:23 All things are possible to him that believeth
Mark 11:23 Whosoever … shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe … he shall have
whatsoever he saith
Luke 1:45 Blessed is she that believeth: for there shall be a performance of those things
which were told her
John 11:40 If thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God.

F. Persevering faith:

Matthew 15:22-28 A woman … cried to him, Have mercy on me … he answered not a word [She
continued insisting until he did]
Mark 10:46-52 [Blind Bartimaeus continued crying out to Jesus until Jesus granted his request
for healing]
G. Faith and Patience:
Romans 8:25 If we hope (have faith) for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it
Hebrews 6:12 Who through faith and patience inherit the promises
Hebrews 6:15 After he patiently endured … obtained the promise
Hebrews 10:35-36 Cast not away your confidence [faith]. After ye have done the will of God …
receive the promise
James 1:3 The trying of your faith worketh patience

9. THE TESTING OF OUR FAITH:

1 Peter 1:6-7 Trail of your faith … more precious than gold
Job 23:10 When he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold

A. God tests our faith:

Genesis 22:1-18 [God tested Abraham to see if he was willing to offer Isaac as a sacrifice] (See also
Hebrews 11:17-19).
Joshua 6:2-5 [He had Israelites merely walk around walls of Jericho]
Judges 7:2-7 [He had Gideon drastically reduce the size of his army]
John 11:23,39-40 Take away the stone. Lord, by this time he stinketh
Acts 5:17-20 [Just released from prison, the apostles are commanded to go preach publicly
again]
(See also Deuteronomy 8:2)

B. He allows the devil and wicked men to test saint’s faith:

Daniel 3:14-27 [Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego:] God … will deliver us … but if not … we will
not serve thy gods
Matthew 4:1-11 [The devil tempted Jesus:] if thou be the son of God, cast thy self down
Hebrews 11:35-38 [Saint’s were] stoned, sawn asunder, tempted, slain

31
10. WHEN WE HAVE FAITH…

A. You will continue to trust God, even when things look hopeless:
Job 13:15 [Job, having lost his wealth, family, and health, said:] Though ha slay me , yet
will l trust in him
Daniel 3:16-18 Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning furnance … and
out of thine hand O King
Matthew 8:24, 26 There arose a great tempest … the ship was covered with waves, [but Jesus
chided His disciples for fearing]
John 11:21-22s [Four days after Lazarus died, Mary said:] I know that even now, whatsoever
thou wilt ask … God will give it
Acts 27:18-25 All hope … was taken away. [But Paul said:] I believe God, that it shall be even as
it was told me
Acts 28:3-6 [Paul calmly shook off a poisonous snake that had just bitten him]
Romans 4:18 Who against hope believed in hope, that he (Abraham) might [receive the
promise]
Romans 4:20 He staggered not at a promise of God through unbelief
(See also 2 chronicles 32:7,8; Isaac 26:3; Jonah 2:1-9; Acts 9:36-38)

B. You will not be unduly shaken or alarmed at bad news:

Psalm 112:7 He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed (established), trusting in
the Lord

C. You will not fret or be anxious:

Isaiah 28:16 He that believeth shall not make haste
Psalm 37:7 Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not

D. Trust, Obey, and put your faith into action. – Your deeds and words will show your faith:
Psalm 116:10 I believed, therefore have I spoken
Matthew 8:5-8,13 [The Centurion believed Jesus’ word, returned home] and his servant was
healed in the selfsame hour
Matthew 12:10,13 [Jesus tells man with withered hand:] stretch forth thine hand. And he (did); and
it was restored whole
Mark 7:25-30 [Syrophenician woman believed Jesus, went to her home and found her
daughter well]
Luke 17:11-19 [Ten lepers:] As they went, they were cleansed (healed)
John 4:46-53 Go thy way; thy son liveth. And the man believed the word … and he went his
way
John 11:39-41 Take ye away the stone. They took away the stone [and Jesus raised Lazarus
from the dead]
Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, moved … prepared an ark
James 2:21-26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also
(See also Joshua 6:1-16, 20; Judges 7:7, 16-22; 1 Kings 17:9-16; 2 Kings 3:9-11, 16-20; 4:1-6;
Hebrews 11:8, 17, 23.)

E. Declarations of faith, followed by victorious action:

1 Samuel 14:6-16 There is no restraint to Lord to save by many or few
1 Samuel 17:32-50 The Lord … will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine
Judges 7:15-22 Arise; for the Lord hath delivereth [them] into your hand
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11 LACK OF FAITH:

A. Warnings not to doubt or lose faith:

Matthew 14:31 O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
John 20:27 Be not faithless, but believing
Luke 12:29-30 Neither be ye of doubtful mind
Hebrews 3:12 Take heed … lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing
from the living God
Hebrews 4:11 Lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief
Hebrews 10:35 Cast not away therefore your confidence (faith)

B. The consequences of not having faith:

Isaiah 7:9 If ye will not believe, ye shall not be established
Matthew 13:58 Did not many mighty works because of their unbelief
John 3:36 He that believeth not the son shall not see life
Romans 14:32 For whosoever is not of faith is sin
1 Timothy 1:19 Faith … which some having put away, made shipwreck
Hebrews 3:18-19 They should not enter in [and receive God’s promises] because of unbelief
Hebrews Without faith it is impossible to please him (God)
James 1:6-7 Ask in faith, nothing wavering … he that wavereth … shall receive (nothing) of
the Lord

C. Faith or doubt? –To do or not to do:

Matthew 9:29 According to your faith be it unto you
Romans 14:5 Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind
Romans 14:22 Hast thou faith? Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he
alloweth
Romans 14:23 He that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith:
Whatsoever is not of faith is sin

Special chapter about faith:

Hebrews 11 –“The Faith Chapter” or “Faith’s Hall of Fame”

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 LOVE AND FORGIVENESS

GOD IS LOVE, AND HE LOVES US:

God is love 1 John 4:8

A. God’s love
Jeremiah 31:3 I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore lovingkindess have I drawn
thee
Romans 8:38-39 For I am persuaded, that [nothing] shall be able to separate us from the love of
God
Ephesians 2:4-6 God … for his great love wherewith he loved us … hath raised us up
1 John 3:1 What manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us
1 John 4:10 Love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us (See also Zephaniah 3:17.)

B. How God showed us His love:

John 3:16 God so loved the world, that he gave his only … Son
Romans 5:7-8 God commendeth his love towards us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ
died for us
1 John 4:9 In this was manifested the love of God … God sent his only begotten Son into
the world, that we might live through him

C. Jesus’ love for us:

John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his live for the sheep
John 15:13 Greater love hath no man … that [he] lay down his life
2 Corinthians 8:9 Though he [Jesus] was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye … might
be rich
Ephesians 3:19 Know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge
Revelation 1:5 Jesus Christ … loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood

D. Dwelling and abiding in God’s love:

John 14:21 He that loveth shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest
myself to him
John 14:23 If a man love me … my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and
make our abode with him
John 17:26 That the love … may be in them, and I in them
1 John 2:5 Whoso keepeth his (Jesus’) word, in him verily is the love of God perfected
1 John 4:19 we love him, because he first loved us
Jude 1:21 Keep yourselves in the love of God

2. THE FIRST GREAT COMMANDMENT –TO LOVE GOD:

Deuteronomy 6:5 Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart and with all thy soul, and
with all thy might
Deuteronomy 10:12 What doth the Lord … require of thee, but to … love him … with all thy soul
Deuteronomy 30:20 Love … God, and … cleave unto him: for he is thy life
Joshua 22:5 Take diligent heed to … love the Lord your God … and cleave unto him
Joshua 23:11 Take good heed therefore unto yourselves, that ye love the Lord

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Matthew 22:37-38 Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart … This is the first and great
commandment
(See also Deuteronomy 360:6; Mark 12:30)

3. THE SECOND GREAT COMMANDMENT – TO LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR:

Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself
Matthew 22:39 And the second [commandment] is like unto it [the first]. Thou shalt love thy
neighbour as thyself
John 13:34 Love one another; as l have loved you
John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you
John 15:17 These things I command you, That ye love one another
1 John 3:11 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love
one another
1 John 3:23 His commandment, That we should … love one another

4. LOVE ONE ANOTHER:

A. God loves us so we should love one another:
John 13:34 As I have loved you … ye [ought] to love one another
Ephesians 5:2 Walk in love [one to another], as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given
himself for us
1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God
1 John 4:11 If God so loved us, we ought also to love one another
1 John 5:1 Every one that loveth him begat love him also that is begotten of him

B. God gives us love to love others:

Romans 5:5 The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given
unto us
Galatians 5:22 The fruit of the Spirit is love … longsuffering
1 Thessalonians 2:12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and
toward all men
1 Thessalonians 4:9 Ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another
2 Thessalonians 3:5 The Lord direct your hearts into the love of God
2 Timothy 1:7 God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of … love (see also Ephesians 6:23)
C. To love is the greatest law of God:
Mark 12:33 To love [God] … and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all … burnt
offerings and sacrifices
Luke 10:25,27-28 To inherit eternal life … God … with all thy heart … thy neighbour as thyself …
this do, and thou shalt live
Galatians 5:14 All the law is fulfilled in … this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself
D. Love is the most important virtue:
1 Corinthians 13:13 Faith, hope, love … the greatest of these is love
1 Corinthians 13:2 Though I have faith … and have no love, I am nothing
Galatians 5:6 Faith … worketh by love
Ephesians 3:17 [Be] rooted and grounded in love
Ephesians 3:19 The love of Christ … passeth knowledge
Revelations 2:3-4 For my name’s sake hast laboured … [but] I have somewhat against thee … thou
hast left thy first love (See also Ephesians 1:15-16; Colossians 1:3,4; Philemon 5)

35
E. Love one another fervently:
1 Thessalonians 3:12 Increase and abound in love one toward another
1 Peter 1:22 Love one another with a pure heart fervently
1 Peter 4:8 Above all things have fervent love among yourselves

F. Love sincerely and genuinely:

Judges 16:15 How canst thou say, I love thee, when thine heart is not with me?
Romans 12:9 Let love be without dissimulation
1 Peter 1:22 Obeying the truth … unto unfeigned love of the brethren (See also 2 Corinthians 6:6;
8:8)
Philippians 1:9-10 That your love may abound yet more and more … that ye may be sincere and
without offence
G. The benefits that loving others brings us:
John 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to
another
2 Corinthians 13:11 Live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you
Ephesians 3:17-19 Ye, being rooted and grounded in love … might be filled with all the fullness of
God
1 John 2:10 He that loveth his brother abideth in the light
1 John 3:14 We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the
brethren
1 John 4:7 Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God
1 John 4:12 If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us (See
also 1 John 2:15)
1 John 4:16 God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God and God in him

5. REAL, GENUINE LOVE:

A. Whatever you do, do it in love:

1 Corinthians 16:14 Let all your things be done with charity
2 Corinthians 5:14 For the love of Christ constraineth [compels] us
B. The qualities that genuine love will have:
1 Corinthians 8:1 Love edifieth [builds up, strengthens]
1 Corinthians 13:4 Love envieth not; charity vauteth [exalts] not itself, is not puffed up [proud]
1 Corinthians 13:5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not for her own, is not easily
provoked, thinketh not evil;
1 Corinthians 13:6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth
Colossians 3:14 Love … is the bond of perfectness
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love … love caseth out fear
C. Genuine love results in unity of believers:
Colossians 2:2 That their hearts might be … knitted together in love
(See also 1 Samuel 18:1; Ephesians 4:15; Philipians2:1-2)

D. Real love will not give up or fall:

Songs of Solomon 8:7 Many waters [troubles] cannot quench love … drown it

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 OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LORD
Includes dedication, devotion, and loving and reverencing the Lord

1. WE WORSHIP THE LORD BY LOVING HIM:

A. We are to love the Lord with all our heart:

Deuteronomy 6:5 Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy
soul, and with all thy might
Deuteronomy 10:12 What doth the require of thee, but to … to love him … with all thy heart
and with all thy soul
Matthew 22:37-38 Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with
all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment
(See also Deuteronomy 30:6, 20; Joshua 22:5; 23:11.)

B. Our souls should thirst for God:

Psalm 42:1-2 As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after
thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God
Psalm 63:1 My soul thirstethfor thee … in a dry thirsty land
(See also Psalm 143:6; Matthew 5:6; John 4:10, 14.)

C. We should greatly desire Him:

Psalm 27:4 One thing have I desired … that will I seek after; that I may … behold the
beauty of the Lord
Psalm 16:8 I have set the Lord always before me … at my right hand
Psalm 63:8 My soul followeth hard after thee
Psalm 84:2 My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord
Isaiah 26:9 With my soul have I desired thee in the night

D. We are to desire Him above all else:

Psalm 73:25 Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I
desire beside thee
Isaiah 26:8 The desire of our soul is to thy name

E. We are to worship Jesus as we worship God:

John 5:23 All men should honour the Son, even as … the Father
Philippians 2:9-11 At the name of Jesus every knee should bow … every tongue should
confess that Jesus Christ is Lord
Colossians 1:18 [He] is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he
might have the preeminence
1 John 5:1 Every one that loveth him (God) that begat loveth him [Jesus] also that
is begotten of him

F. Why we love and worship Jesus:

1 John 3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he [Jesus] laid down his
life for us
1 John 4:19 We love him, because he first loved us
Revelation 5:8-13 Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive … honour, and glory, and
blessing(see also 1 John 2:23; 4:15.)
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2. HOW TO SHOW OUR LOVE FOR THE LORD:

A. By loving and obeying His Word:

John 14:21 He that [keepeth] my commandments … he it is that loveth me
Deuteronomy 11:1 Thou shalt love the Lord thy God, and keep his … statutes, and his
judgments, and his commandments, always
Job 23:12 I have esteemed [God’s] words … more than my necessary food
Psalm 119:20 My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments [word]
at all times. (See also Psalm 119:40.)
Psalm 119:131 I … panted: for I longed for thy commandments
1 John 3:22 We keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in
his sight
1 John 5:3 This is the love of God, that we keep his commandments
2 John 6 This is love that we walk after his commandments
(See also Psalm 119:47-48, 97, 113, 127, 140, 159, 163, 167.)

B. By worshiping Him in prayer:

Psalm 18:1, 3 I will love thee, O Lord … I will call upon the Lord
Psalm 63:1-4 Thou art my God; early will I seek thee … to see thy power and thy glory
Psalm 91:14-15 Because he hath set his love upon me … he shall call upon me, and I will
answer him
Psalm 116:1-2 I love the Lord … therefore will I call upon him

C. By loving one another:

Matthew 25:40 Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren,
ye have done it unto me
1 John 4:20-21 Commandments … he who loveth God love his brother also

D. By listening to His voice:

1 Samuel 3:9-10 If he call thee … say “Speak, Lord; for they servant heareth”
Psalm 143:8 Cause me to hear they loving-kindness
Isaiah 50:5 The Lord hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellious

E. By obeying, following, and serving Him:

John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice … and they follow me
John 12:26 Follow me; where I am, there shall also my servant be
John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 What doth the Lordthy God require of thee, but to serve [him] … keep
the commandments of the Lord
Joshua 24:14 Fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and truth
1 Samuel 12:24 Fear the Lord, and serve him in truth with all your heart
Ephesians6:7 Doing services, as to the Lord, and not to men
Hebrews 12:28 Serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear

F. By-self-sacrifice and giving our lives in love:

Matthew 10:38 He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me
John 10:17 My father [doth] love me, because I lay down my life
1 Corinthians 15:31 I die daily (see also 2 Corinthians 11:22-28.)
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Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ
Philippians 3:7-8 I count all this things but loss … that I may win Christ
Revelation 12:11 They counted not their lives unto the death

G. By honouring and obeying Him more than men:

Acts 5:29 We ought to obey God rather than men (see also Acts 4:19.)

H. By giving to Him and supporting His work:

Proverbs 3:9 Honour the Lord with … the firstfruits of all thine increase
(See also Leviticus 27:30; 1 Corinthians 9:6-11.)

3. WE ARE TO LOVE GOD ABOVE ALL ELSE:

Matthew 22:37 Love … God with all thy heart … soul and … mind

A. We are not love-or put-anything before Him:

Exodus 20:3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me (see also Psalm 96:4)

B. God is jealous of your love for Him; don’t provoke Him:

Exodus 20:3,5 Thou shalt not … serve [other gods]: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous
God
(See also Exodus 34:14; Deuteronomy 32:16, 21 Isaiah 42:8; 1 Corinthians 10:22.)

C. We are not even to love our loved ones more than God:
Genesis 22:12 Now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy
son, thine only son from me.
Matthew 10:37 He that loveth father or mother … [or] son or daughter more than me is
not worthy of me (see also Luke 14:26.)

D. We are not even to seek our physical needs above God:

Matthew 4:4 Not live by bread alone, but by every word … of God
Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love
the other … Ye cannot serve God and mammon
Matthew 6:33 Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness (see also Psalm 84:10-
11; Matthew 6:25-32.)

E. Seek heavenly things don’t be overly attached to earthly things:

Matthew 6:20-21 Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven … for where your treasure is,
there will your heart be also
Luke 12:15 A man’s consisteth not in abundance of things
Colossians 3:1 Seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right
hand of God
Colossians 3:2 Set … affection on things above, not on things on the earth
(See also Hebrews 10:34.)

F. Don’t even put God’s services above loving God:

Luke 11:42 Ye tithe … [but] pass over judgment and the love of God
Revelation 2:3-5 For my name’s sake hast laboured … nevertheless … thou hast left thy
first love … thou art fallen
Luke 10:38-42 [The story of Martha busy serving, while Mary listened to Jesus]

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4. WE ARE TO FEAR AND REVERENCE THE LORD:
A. Fearing God:
Deuteronomy 10:12 What doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy
God
2 Kings 17:35-36 The Lord … him shall ye fear, and him shall ye worship
Ecclesiastes 12:13 Fear God, and keep his commandments
Isaiah 8:12-13 Let [God] be your fear, and let him be your dread
Luke 12:4-5 Be not afraid of [men] … I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear
[God] … yea, I say, Fear him
(See also Matthew 10:28.)

B. Fearing (reverencing) God is healthy:

Psalm 19:9 The fear of the Lord is clean (Compare with Proverbs 29:25.)

C. The benefits of fearing God:

Psalm 111:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom(see also Proverbs 9:10.)
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge
Proverbs 14:26 In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence
Proverbs 14:27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of
death
Proverbs 16:6 By the fear of the Lord men depart from evil

D. God’s blessings on us for fearing Him:

Psalm 25:12 He that feareth the Lord … shall he teach in the way
Psalm 31:19 How great is thy goodness … for them that fear thee
Psalm 103:13 The Lord pitieth [his compassion on] them that fear him
Psalm 147:11 The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him
Luke 1:50 His mercy is on them that fear him
Acts 10:35 He that feareth him …is accepted with him

5. RESTING IN THE LORD:

A. The Bible instructs us to “rest in the Lord:”
Psalm 37:7 Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him
Hebrews 4:3 We which have believed do enter into rest
Hebrews 4:9 Theremaineth therefore a rest to the people of God

B. Take time to sit at Jesus’s feet:

Luke 10:38-42 Mary … sat at Jesus’s feet and heard his word. But Martha was
cumbered … serving. Mary hath chosen the good part

C. Cast your burdens and worries on the Lord:

Psalm 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee
Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give
you rest … unto your souls
1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for hecareth for you

D. Quietly mediate on God’s power:

40
Genesis 24:63 Isaac went out to mediate in the field at the eventide
Job 37:14 Stand still, and consider the wondrous works of God
Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God
1 Thessalonians 4:11 Study to be quite

E. Be humble before Him:

1 Kings 3:7 [King Solomon prayed to God] I am but a little child
Isaiah 57:15 The high and lofty one that inhabited eternity … I dwell … with him also
that is of a contrite and humble spirit
Micah 6:8 What do the Lord require of thee, but to … walk humbly with thy God

6. DRAWING CLOSE AND RESTING IN THE “SECRETPLACE”:

Hebrews 4:11 Let us labour … to enter into the rest
James 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you

A. The “secret place” of God’s presence:

Psalm 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under
the shadow of the Almighty
Psalm 17:8 Hide me under the shadow of thy wings
Psalm 31:19-20 Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence
Psalm 61:4 I will trust in the covert [hiding place] of thy wings
(See also Psalm 27:5; 32:7; 119:114.)

B. Rest in “the shadow of his wings:”

Deuteronomy 32:11-12 As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young … so the Lord
[watches over His people]
Matthew 23:37 [Jesus longs to gather us to Him] even as a hen gathered her chickens
under her wings (see also Luke 13:34.)
Psalm 91:4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou
trust
Psalm 57:1 My soul trusteth in thee … in the shadow of thy wings
(See also Psalm 36:7; 63:7; Ruth 2:12.)

7. THE BENEFITS OF TAKING QUITE TIME WITH THE LORD:

A. God heals and restores our souls:
Psalm 23:2-3 He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul
Malachai 4:2 Unto you that fear my name shall the Son of righteousness [Jesus] arise
with healings in his wings
2 Corinthians 4:16 We faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man
is renewed day by day (see also Ephesians 4:23.)

B. He gives us joy:
Psalm 5:11 Let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice … let them alsothat love
thy name be joyful in thee
Psalm 16:11 In thy presence is fullness of joy
Psalm 40:16 Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glade in thee
Psalm 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation
(See also Nehemiah 8:10; 1 Peter 1:8.)
C. He gives us spiritual strength:

41
Isaiah 40:29-31 They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they mount up
with wings as eagles … and not be weary
Isaiah 41:1 Keep silence before me … renew their strength
Isaiah 30:7 Their strength is to sit still
Isaiah 30:15 In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength
Daniel 11:32 The people that do know their God shall be strong
Judges 5:31 Let them that love him be as the son when goeth forth in his might
Ephesians 3:16 That he would grant you … to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in
the inner man (see also Psalm 138:3.)
Colossians 1:9, 11 Strengthened with all might, according to his … power

D. He gives us rest in the Spirit:

Exodus 33:14 My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest
1 Kings 8:56 The Lord … had given rest unto his people
Matthew 11:28-30 Come unto me … I will give you rest … unto your souls

E. When we take time to love Him, He loves us:

Proverbs 8:17 I love them that love me
John 14:21, 23 He that loveth me [Jesus] shall be loved by my Father
John 16:27 The Father … loveth you, because ye have loved me

F. Other benefits of loving the Lord:

Deuteronomy 30:16 Love the Lord … walk in his ways … that thou mayest live … and the Lord
shall bless thee
Psalm 91:14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will
set him on high, because he hath known my name
Psalm 119:132 Be merciful … unto those that love thy name
Psalm 145:20 Thepreserveth all them that love him
Proverbs 8:21 I may cause those that love me to inherit substance
Ephesians 6:24 Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity
1 Corinthians 6:3 If any man love God, the same is known of him.
James 1:12 The crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him
(see also 2 Timothy 4:8.)
(See also Deuteronomy 11:13-15, 22-23; Psalm 36:10.)

8. HINDRANCES TO OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LORD:

A. Being “too busy” to take time with Him:
Isaiah 26:12 This is the refreshing wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest: yet
they could not hear
Matthew 23:37 How often would I have gathered [thee] as a hen gathereth her chickens
under her wings, and ye would not
Luke 10:39-40 Mary sat at Jesus feet, and heard his word. But Martha was
encumbered about with much serving
John 5:40 Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life

B. Becoming caught up with the world and its cares:

Matthew 13:22 The care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the
word(see also Luke 8:14.)
2 Timothy 2:4 [To please God, don’t become entangled with the affairs of this life]
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1 John 2:15 If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him

C. cooling off and losing our “first love”:

Jeremiah 2:2-5 The kindness of thy youth, the love … when thou wentestafter me …
[now] gone far from me … become vain?
Matthew 24:12 The love many shall wax [grow] cold
Revelation 2:4-5 I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love

D. Doubting the Lord’s love for you:

Malachi 1:2 I have loved you, saith the Lord. Yet ye say, Wherein hast thou loved us

E. Harbouringunrepented sin in our hearts:

Psalm 66:18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, Lord will not hear me
Isaiah 59:2 Your iniquities have separated between you and your God

F. Being too full of our own thoughts:

Isaiah 65:2 I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which
walketh … after their own thoughts
( See also Psalm 10:4; 119:113; Isaiah 55:7.)

9. OUR SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LORD:

A. Obedient believers are a blessed and chosen people:

1 Peter 2:9 Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a
peculiar [special] people
Exodus 19:5 If ye will obey my voice … ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above
all people
Deuteronomy 7:6 God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all
people … upon the face of the earth
Deuteronomy 14:2 Thou art an holy people … a peculiar people
Isaiah 443:4 Thou wast precious in my sight … and I have loved thee
Matthew 22:14 Many are called, but few are chosen
John 15:16 I have chosen you, and ordained you
(See also Ephesians 1:4; Revelation 17:14.)

B. Jesus bought us; we belong to Him:

1 Corinthians 3:23 Ye are Christ
1 Corinthians 6:20 Ye are bought with a price … your body and your spirit … are God’s (see
also 1 Corinthians 7:23.)
Revelation 5:9 Thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us … by thy blood
1 Peter 1:18-19 Ye were … redeemed … with the precious blood of Christ
(See also Matthew 20:28; Luke 10:45; Galatians 3:13; 1Timothy 2:5-6.)

C. Instead of making us slaves, He adopted us a children and heirs:

Galatians 4:5 To redeem [us] … that we might receive the adoption of sons (see also
Ephesians 1:5-7.)
Romans8:14-16 Ye have receive the Spirit of adoption,whereby we cry, Abba, Father
Matthew 12:50 Whosoever shall do the will of my Father … the same is my brother, and
sister, and mother
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Galatians 4:6 Because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your
hearts, crying, Abba, Father
Galatians 4:7 Thou art no more a servant, but a son and … an heir
Romans 8:17 If children, then … heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ
(See also John 15:15; 2 Corinthians 6:18; Hebrews 2:11; 1 John 3:1.)

D, We are spiritually married to the Lord:

Isaiah 54:5 Thy Maker is thine husband; the Lord of hosts
Isaiah 62:5 As the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over
thee
Jeremiah 3:14 Turn … for I am married unto you
Hosea 2:19-20 I will betroth thee unto me forever
Romans 7:4 Ye should be married to another, even to [Jesus]
2 Corinthians 11:2 I have espoused you to one husband that I may present you as a chaste
virgin to Christ
Revelation 19:7-9 The marriage of the Lamb [Jesus] is come, and his wife, the church] hath
made herself ready
(See also Ezekiel 16:8; Ephesians 5:28-32.)

E. We live and abide in Him, and he lives in us:

John 14:23 We will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
John 15:1-5 [We are to abide in Jesus as a branch joined to a vine]
John 17:26 That the love … may be in them, and I in them.

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 FELLOWSHIP
“The assembling of ourselves together”. (Hebrews 10:25)

1. THE BIBLE INSTRUCTS US TO FELLOWSHIP:

A. The importance of Fellowship:
Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together …
Psalm 133:1-3 How good … for brethren to dwell together in unity
Mathew 18:19-20 Where two or three are gathered … there am I in the midst of them.
1John 1:7 If we walk in the light … have fellowship one with another (see also I
John 1:3; Psalm 119:63).
B. We are one body in Jesus:
Romans 12:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one
of another, (See also I Corinthians 12:12-28).

C. There is strength in united fellowship:

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are getter than one … if they fall, the one will lift up.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 A threefold cord is not quickly broken
Acts 28:15 The brethren … came to meet us as far as Appii forum … whom when
Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.
D. Its hard to be alone, without fellowship:
Ecclesiastes 4:10 Woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to
help.
2Timothy 4:16 At my first answer no man stood with me.

2. THE REASONS FOR FELLOWSHIP:

A. Edification and Inspiration:
Acts 2:42 They continued stedfastly in … doctrine and fellowship
1Corinthains 14:3-4 (Prophesying and doctrine edify the church)
1Corinthains 14:26 When ye come together … let all things be … edifying
B. Reading the Word together:
Hebrews 8:1-4, 8 The people gathered themselves together … Ezra read
Acts 15:30-31 Gathered the multitude together, they delivered the epistle.
1 Timothy 4:13 Give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
(See also Acts 16:4; Colossians 4:16; I Thessalonians 5:27).
C. Exhortation and Instruction:
Acts 15:32 Exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.
Acts 20:7 When the disciples came together … Paul preached
Hebrews 10:25 Assembling of ourselves together … exhorting one another.
(See also Acts 11:22-23; 15:36. 41)
D. Gathering for special prayer:
1 Timothy 4:14 The gift … which was given thee … with the laying on of the hands of the
presbytery.
James 5:14 Call for the elders of the church; and … pray over him.
E. United Prayer:
Acts 1:13:15 (120 disciples gathered to pray in the upper room)
Acts 12:5, 12 House … where many were gathered together praying.
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F. Having Communion:
Acts 20:7 The disciples came together to break bread.

G. Meeting to discuss important matters:

Acts 15:2,4- (Went) unto the apostles and elders about this question.
Acts 20:17-18 He called the elders of the church. And when they were come.
Acts 21:17-19 All the elders were present … (Paul) declared
H. Making a point to seek for fellowship:
(See also Acts 21-3-4; 27:2-3; 28:13-14)

3. HOLDING MEETINGS:
A. Everyone can contribute something:
1 Corinthians 14:26 When ye come together … one of you hath a psalm a doctrine, a tongue,
a revelation, an interpretation.

B. Be united and orderly during fellowship meetings;

Acts 4:32 The multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul.
I Corinthians 14:33,40 In all churches of the saints. Let all things be of one decently and in
order. (See also I Corinthians 11:17-34; 14:23-31; James 2:2-4)

C. United singing during fellowship:

Ezra 3:11 The sang together … praising and giving thanks
Mathew 26:30 And when they had sung an hymn, they went out.
Hebrews 2:12 In the midst of the church will I sing praise.

D. End meeting with prayer:

Acts 20:36 When he had thus spoken, he … prayed with them all.
Acts 21:5-6 We departed … and we kneeled down … and prayed

E. Fellowship together constantly:

Acts 2:46 Continuing daily with one accord … from house to house

4. BEING “OF ONE MIND” AND WORKING TOGETHER IN UNITY:

1 Corinthians 1:10 No divisions among you … be perfectly joined together
1 Corinthians 12:25 Should be no schism in the body … have the same care.
Philippians 2:2 Be likeminded … being of one accord, of one mind (See also Galatians
2:9; 1 Peter 3:6).

5. USING FELLOWSHIP TO WITNESS:

Mathew 9:9-13 Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? … I am not come
to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
I Corinthians 10:27,31 If any … that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go …
do all to the glory of God.

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 WITNESSING
1. IT IS OUR DUTY, AS CHRISTIANS, TO WITNESS:

A. Jesus gave “the Great Commission” to all His disciples:

Mathew 4:19 Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men
Mark 16:15 Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel
Acts 1:8 Ye shall be witnesses … unto the uttermost part of the earth
Mathew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations
Mark 13:10 The gospel … must be published among all nations
Luke 24:47 Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all
nations.
John 15:10 Ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit (see also Mathew 24:14)

B. Jesus sends us s His labourers and witness:

Isaiah 6:8 Whom shall I send? … Here am I; send me.
Mathew 9:37-38 Labourers are few; Pray … the Lord … that he will send forth labourers into his
harvest.
Luke 9:2 (Jesus) sent them to preach … the kingdom of God
John 20:21 As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you
Romans 10:14-15 How shall they hear without a preacher/ And how shall they preach, except they
be sent?
2 Corinthians 5:20 We are ambassadors for Christ.

2. WHY WE NEED TO WITNESS:

A. To share what we believe in:

Psalm 107:2 Let the redeemed (saved) of the Lord say so

John 3:11 We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen
Acts 4:20 We … speak that things which we have seen and heard
2 Corinthians 4:13 I believed, and therefore have I spoken (see also Psalm 116:10)

B. To save souls from death:

Proverbs 14:25 A true witness delivered souls
Acts 26:18 To open their eyes, and to turn them … from the power of Satan unto God
James 5:20 He which converteth the sinner … save a soul from death

C. If we donts, we and they will suffer:

Ezekiel 3:17-19 Nor speaker to warn the wicked … his blood will I require at thing hand (See also
Acts 20:26-27)
Mark 8:38 Of him shall the Son of Man be ashamed when he cometh.
Luke 12:8-9 He that denieth me before men shall be denied.
1 Corinthians 9:16 Woe is unto me, If I preach not the gospel
2 Corinthians 4:3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost (See also Jeremiah 8:20;
Jonah 1:1-17).

3. DON’T BE WHY OR ASHAMED TO WITNESS:

Psalm 119:46 I will speak of thy testimonies … and will not be ashamed
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Isaiah 40:9 Lift up they voice with strength … be not afraid
Isaiah 62:6 Ye are make mention of the Lord, keep not silence
Mathew 5:14-16 Ye are thelight of the world … cannot be hid … Let your light so shine before
men (see also Mark 4:21; Luke 8:16.)
Mark 8:38 Whosoever shall be ashamed of me and my words … of him shall the Son of
Man be ashamed.
Acts 18:9 Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not they peace.
Romans 1:16 I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ.
Ephesians 6:18-20 (Pray) I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak
1 Thessalonians 2:2 We were bold … to speak unto you the gospel of God
2 Timothy 1:8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord. (See also Jeremiah
6:9).

4. POINTERS ON HOW TO BE A GOOD WITNESS:

Proverbs 18:13 (Ask questions) He that answered a matter before he heareth it, it is folly
James 1:19 (Listen) Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak
Proverbs 20:5 (Get them to speak their heart) Draw it out
Mathew 12:34 Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh,
Acts 26”27 (Ask what they believe) Believed thou the prophets?
Acts 17:23-28 (Find points of agreement) Your own poets have said
1 Corinthians 9:19-22 I am made all things to all men, that I might be all means save some.
Acts 26:1-20 (Give your own personal testimony, Example of Paul’s)
Mark 4:2 (Illustrate your point with true stories) (Jesus) taught them many things by
parables.
Luke 13:1-5 (Use current events: Pilate, tower of Siloam falling)
Acts 2:40 (Patient explain) And with many other words did he exhort.
Psalm 126:5-6 (Have a broken heart) Sow in tears … reap in joy
Mathew 9:36 He was moved with compassion on (the lost sheep)
1 Corinthians 13:1 (Speak in love, or it’s just empty words, ) like sounding brass or a tinkling
cymbal)
1 Samuel 16:23 (Music has spiritual power: Example of David playing the harp for King Saul)
Luke 14:23 (Be zealous and determined) Compel them to come in
1 King 18:21 (Bring them to a decision) How long halt ye between two opinion? (See also
Joshua 24:16; Hebrew 3:7-8).

5. USE THE WORD IN YOUR WITNESSING:

A. The Word is powerful and convinces people:

2 Corinthian 17:9 (They) had the book of the law of the Lord with them, and went about … and
taught the people.
Luke 8:5, 11 Sower sowed seed … the seed is the word of God
John 4:41-42 Many more believed because of his own word ….. Now we believe, not because
of (the woman’s) saying
John 5:39 Search the scriptures … they testify of me (Jesus)
John 20:31 These are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ
Acts 17:2-3 Paul … reasoned with them out of the scriptures
Acts 18:28 He mightily convinced … showing by the scriptures

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Titus 1:9 (The) word … sound doctrine … convince the gainsaying.

B. Familiarity with Scripture is important to witnessing:

Psalm 119:42 Wherewith to answer him … for I trust in they word
Proverbs 22:17-21 Answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee.
Malachi 2:6 The law of truth was in his mouth … and did turn many away from iniquity.
Mathew 12:34-35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things
Acts 13:32-35 (Quotes the Word:) As it is also written in the second psalm.
2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word … exhort with all … doctrine
1 Peter 3:15 Be ready always to give an answer to every man

6. KEEPING YOUR WITNESS SIMPLE:

John 12:32 If (Jesus) be lifted up … will draw all men unto me
1 Corinthians 1:17 Preach the gospel ; not with wisdom of words
1 Corinthians 2:1-2 (i) Came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom
1 Corinthians 2:4 Except ye utter … words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is
spoken
1 Corinthians 14:9 Except ye utter … words easy to be understood, how shall it be known wha is
spoken?
2 Corinthians 1:12 In simplicity and godly sincerely, not with fleshy wisdom
2 Corinthians 3:12 We use great plainness of speech.

7. WHAT YOU SHOULD PREACH (WITNESS ABOUT):

A. Preach the gospel; preach Jesus:
Mathew 28:19-20 Teaching … all things whatsoever I have commanded you
Mark 16:15 Preach the gospel (good news of salvation in Jesus)
Luke 9:2 (Jesus) sent them to preach the kingdom of God.
John 3:16 (That they may have eternal life by believing in Jesus).
Acts 4:2 They taught … the resurrection from the dead
Acts 5:42 They ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
Acts 13:32-35 (Jesus fulfilled old Messianic prophecies).
Acts 13:38 Through (Jesus) is preached … forgiveness of sins
Acts 20:21 Testifying … repentance toward God, and faith toward Jesus.
Romans 5:8 God commendeth his love toward us … while we were yet sinners, Christ died
for us.
1 Corinthians 1:23 We preach Christ died for us.
1 Corinthians 15:3 I delivered unto you … that Christ died for our sins
1 Corinthians 15:4 He was buried, and that he rose again (from the dead)
2 Corinthians 4:5 We preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord.
2 Corinthians 5:20 We pray you … be ye reconciled to God.
1 Timothy 1:15 That Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
1 John 4:14 (We) testify that the Father sent the Son to be the savior (See also Acts 10:42;
24:25; Ephesians 3:8)

B. What not to talk about:

1 Corinthians 3:2 Not with meat (strong doctrine) … ye were not able to bear it.

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1 Thessalonians 2:3-6 Our exhortation was not of deceit … nor in guile … neither at any time used we
flattering words.
2 Timothy 2:23 Foolish and unlearned questions avoid
Titus 9:9 Avoid foolish questions … and contentions, and strivings
Hebrews 5:14 Strong meat (doctrine) belongeth to (the mature)

8. WHOM TO WITNESS TO:

A. Jesus commanded us to witness to the whole world:
Mark 16:15 Preach the gospel to every creature (person)
Mathew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations
Luke 8:39 Return to thing own house, and shew how great things
Mark 5:19 Go home to thy friends and tell them.
Mathew 11:5 The poor have the gospel preached to them.
Isaiah 61:1 Preach good tidings unto the meek.
Acts 26:22 Witnessing both to small and great.
Romans 15:20-21 I strived to preach … (to) they that have not heard.
Acts 22:21 Unto the Gentiles [people of many nations]
Acts 28:28 Salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles
Acts 17:18-21 [To curious philosophers and intellectuals]
Ezekiel 2:7 [Give everyone chance, even the rebellious]
Ezekiel 3:17-18 Warn the wicked from his wicked ways

B. Whom not to witness to:

Matthew 9:13 I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners

Proverbs 23:9 speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise
Acts 13:45-46 [Don’t continue witnessing to unreceptive rejecters]
Matthew 7:6 Give not that which is holy the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine
Acts 18:6 When they opposed themselves, and blasphemed … [he] said … I will go
Matthew 10:14 Whosoever shall not … hear your words…depart
Titus 3:10-11 Heretic after the first and second admonition reject
Proverbs 14:7 Go from the presence of a foolish man

9. A WINNIG PERSONAL EXAMPLE:

A. Your personal example is part of your witness:

Matthew 5:16 let your light so shine … they may see your good works
Philippians 2:15-16 Be blameless and harmless … shine as the light in the world; Holding forth the
word of life.
1 Timothy 4:12 Be thou an example of the believers
2 Corinthians 3:2 Ye are our epistle [letter] … known and read of all men
Titus 2:7-8 In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works
1 Peter 3:1-2 [unbelieving spouses to be won by believer’s example]
(see also 1 Timothy 5:14)
John 13:1-2 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to
another
B. Sample of happiness is appealing:
Psalm 51:12-13 Restore unto me the joy of salvation…and sinners shall be converted unto thee

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C. Lovingly win others, not by arguing:

1 Thessalonians 1:7-8 We are gentle…affectionately desirous of you

2 Timothy 2:23-24 The servant of the lord must not strive; but be gentle
(see also 1 Corinthians 13:1-2,8)
D. Personal example must back your witness:
John 13:15 I [Jesus]have given you an example, that ye should do as I
Romans 2:21-24 thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou that
preaches a man should not… dost thou?
(see also 1 Corinthians 11:1, 1 Timothy6:1, Titus 2:4-5)

10. WHEN TO WITNESS:

A. We are to constantly witness:

Ecclesiastes 11:6 In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening
John 4:35 Look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest
Acts 5:42 daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not
2 Timothy 4:2 in season, out of season [even when not convenient]
1 Peter 3:15 Be ready always to give an answer to every man
(see also Acts 20:31)
B. Pray For God To “Open Up” Witnessing Opportunities
Colossians 4:3 Praying … that God would open us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of
Christ

C. Wait until it’s God’s time to witness to witness to certain people

Matthew 10: 5-7 Go not into the way of the Gentiles … But go rather … [but later said go into the
world ( Mark 16:15)]
Acts 16: 6-7 [Paul] forbidden … to preach … in Asia [but did with great success a few years
later (Acts 19:1, 10)
11. WHERE TO WITNESS:
 In your own house (Acts 28:30-31)
 In every house (Acts 5:42)
 From house to house (Acts 20:20)
 In schools and lecture halls (Acts 19:9-10)
 In church (Hebrews 2:12)
 In market places (Acts 17:17)
 In neighbourhoods of different ethnic groups(John 4:1 42)
 In the streets, lanes, highways, hedges (Luke 14:21,23)
 All over the city (Luke 8:39)
 In cars [chariots] (Acts 8:29-35)
 On boats (Acts 27:22-25)
 In prison (Philippians 1:12-13)
 In courts (Matthew 10:18-20)
 In the wilderness (Matthew 3:1-2)
 Everywhere (Acts 8:4)

12. THE “FRUIT”CHRISTIANS SHOULD BEAR IS OTHER CHRISTIANS, NEW SAVED SOUL:

Luke 8:5-15 [The Parable of the Sower] (see also Matthew 13:3-8,18-23; Mark 4:2-8, 14-20)
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Luke 8:11 The seed is the word of God [which we sow in hearts]
Mark 4:14 The Sower [witness] soweth the word
Proverbs 11:30 He that winneth a soul is wise
John 12:24 But if it die [to self] it bringeth forth much fruit
John 15:5 He that abideth in me … bringeth forth much fruit
John 15:8 Herein is [God] glorified, that ye bear much fruit
Romans 7:4 Married to [jesus] … bring forth fruit unto God

13. THE HOLY SPIRIT AND WITNESSING:

A. The holy spirit anoints you to witness about Jesus

Isaiah 61:1 spirit of the Lord God is upon me … anointed me to preach
Acts 1:8 Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall
be witnesses unto me
Acts 4:29-31 They were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with
boldness
1 Thessalonians 1:5 Our gospel came … in power, and in the Holy Ghost
(see also Colossians 1:27-29)
B. Only God and his Holy Spirit can really win people
John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father…draw him
Zechariah 4:6 Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit
Matthew 10:20 It is not ye that spake, but the Spirit…which speaketh In you
John 15:5 without me ye can do nothing
1 Corinthians 3:6-7 I have planted … but God gave the increase

14. WITNESSING, THE GREATEST WORK ON EARTH:

A. Witnessing is a job worth giving all for:

Matthew 4:19-22 Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they … left their nets
(see also Luke 5:9-11)
Mark 8:35 Lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s
Mark 10:29 [leave house, family, wife, lands for gospel’s sake]

B. Heavenly reward for witnessing

Proverbs 11:30 he that winneth a soul is wise
Daniel 12:3 They that be wise shall shine … and they that turn many to righteousness as the
stars
Luke12:8 Him shall the son of man confess before the angels
1 Corinthians 3:8 Every man shall receive … reward according to his own labour
1 Corinthians 9:16-17 If I preach [the gospel] willingly, I have a reward

15. REACTIONS TO THE GOSPEL:

A. The receptive believe the word:

Jonah 3:1-9 [Jonah preached in Nineveh, and the entire city repented]
John 4:39-42 [Samaritans at Sychar received Jesus and believed]
Acts 8:5-6,8,14 (Samaritans) with one accord gave heed … Samaria received the word of God
Acts 16:14 Lydia … whose heart the Lord opened … she [listened]
Acts 16:32-34 They spake unto him the word … [he] rejoiced, believing
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B. The unreceptive reject the word:
Luke 8:5, 12 Devil taketh away the word, lest they believe
1 Corinthians 1:18 Preaching … is to them that perish foolishness
2 Corinthians 4:4 The god of this world hath blinded the minds of [unbelieving]
see also Jeremiah 36)
C. Unpopularity and persecution because of witnessing :
Luke 6:22 Men shall cast out your name as evil for [Jesus’] sake
John 7:7 The world … hateth [me] because I testify [it is] evil
Acts 16:20-21 These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, and teach customs,
which are not lawful
D. Our witnessing a testimony against unrepentant:
Matthew 10:18 Brought before … kings … for a testimony against them
Mark 6:11 Shake off dust … for a testimony against them
John 12:48 The word that I have spoken … shall judge him

16. WITNESSING BOLDLY DESPITE OPPOSITION:

A. Neither threats, persecution, not martyrdom should stop us:

Luke 21:12-15 They shall … persecute you … I will give you wisdom
Acts 4:29,31,33 Behold their threatening … spake the word with boldness
Acts 14:1-3 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord
Acts 20:24 None of these thing move me, neither count I my life dear
1 Thessalonians 2:2 Even after that we have suffered … we were bold in our God to speak
Revelation 6:9 Them that were slain for the word of word God, and for a testimony
Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by … the wore … loved not their lives
Revelation 20:4 Them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus
B. Witness even if man’s law forbid it:
Amos 7:12-15 [Evil priest said:] prophesy not again any more at Bethel … the Lord said unto
[Amos], Go. Prophesy
Matthew 10:16 Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves
Luke 10:3 I send you forth as lambs among wolves: be wise
Acts 4:17-20 We cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard
Acts 5:27-29 We ought to obey God rather than men
Acts 5:40-42 Commanded that they should not speak … they ceased not

17. MORE VERSES ABOUT WITNESSING AND TESTIFYING:

A. From old testament:

 I will publish the name of the Lord ( Deuteromony 32:3)
 Make known his deeds among the people (1 Chronicles 16:8)
 Declare among the people his doings (Psalm 9:11)
 I give thanks unto thee among the heathen (Psalm 18:49)
 Publish … tell of all thy wondrous works (Psalm 26:7)
 I will declare what he hath done for my soul (Psalm 66:16)
 My mouth shall show forth … thy salvation all the day (Psalm 71:15)
 With my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all (Psalm 89:1)
 Declare his … wonders among all people (Psalm 96:3)
 Say among the heathen that the Lord reigneth (Psalm 96:10)
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  So shall I talk of thy wondrous works (Psalm119:27)
 I will speak of glorious honour of thy majesty (Psalm 145:4-7)
 Make known to the sons of men his mighty acts (Psalm 145:11-12)
 Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord (Isaiah 43:10)
 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that
publisheth peace (Isaiah 52:7)
B. From the new testament:
 They went forth, and preached everywhere (Mark 16:20)
 Preaching and showing tidings of the kingdom of God (Luke 8:1)
 Many believed on him for the saying of the woman (John 4:39)
 Lovest thou me? Feed my sheep (John 21:17)
 Go, speak to the people … all the words of this life (Acts 5:20)
 And we are his witnesses of these things (Acts 5:32)
 He commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify (Acts 10:42)
 Word of the Lord published throughout all the region (Acts 13:49)
 Being fervent in spirit, he spake and taught diligently (Acts 18:25)
 Thou shall be his witness unto all men (Acts 22:15)
 How beautiful are the feet of then that preach the gospel (Romans 10:15)
 The things which thou hast heard … commit to faithful men, who shall … teach others (2
Timothy 4:2)

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 GIVING
1. THE BIBLE COMMANDS BELIEVERS TO GIVE:
Deuteronomy 15: 7-8 Thou shall not harden thine heart, not shut thine hand…thou shalt open thine
hand wide
Proverbs 3:27 withhold not good from them to whom it is due
Proverbs 3:28 Say not … to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee
Matthew 5:42 Give to him that asketh thee, and … would borrow
Luke 3:11 He that hath two coats … impart to him that hath none
Romans 12:13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality

2. God BLESSES US WHEN WE GIVE:

Matthew 6:4 Thy father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly
A. Spiritual blessings:
Proverbs 11:25 The liberal soul … shall be watered also himself
Proverbs 13:7 [He] maketh himself poor [gives], yet hath great riches
Proverbs 14:21 He that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he
Mark 10:21 Give to the poor and thou shalt have treasure in heaven
Acts 20:35 It is more blessed to give than to receive

B. Material blessings:
Deuteronomy 15:10 For this thing the Lord thy God shall bless thee in all thy works
Proverbs 11 :24 There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth
Isaiah 58:10-11 If thou draw out thy soul to the hungry … the Lord shall … satisfy thy soul in
drought
Luke 6:38 Give and it shall be given you; good measure … with the same measure ye mete
it shall be measured again

3. GIVING TO GOD’S WORK:

A. When we give, we are giving to Jesus:
Matthew 25:40 inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have
done it unto me.

B. When we give to God’s work, we are investing :

C.
Proverbs 19:17 He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; … he [will] pay him again
Luke 10:30-37 Whatsoever thou spendest … when I come, I will repay
Philippians 4:17 Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound in your account

D. God will pay back for sacrificial giving:

Proverbs 22:9 He … shall be blessed; for he giveth … to the poor
Proverbs 28:27 He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack
Ecclesiastes 11:1 Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shall find it
2 Corinthians 9:6 He which soweth bountifully shall reap bountifully

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4. CHRISTIAN DUTY REGARDING GIVING AND SHARING:
2 Corinthians 8:4-5,7 As ye abound in every thing, in faith … in your love to us, see that ye abound in
this grace [giving] also
Hebrews 13:16 To do good and to communicate [share with others] forget not
A. Obligation to support full-time workers and missionaries:
Romans 15:27 Their debtors they are … their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things
1 Corinthians 9:6-11 If we had sown unto you spiritual things … we shall reap your carnal things
Galatians 6:6 Let him that is taught … [share materially] unto him that teacheth
1 Timothy 5:17-18 They who labour in the word … the labourer is worthy of his reward [wages]
(see also 3 john 7-8)
B. Examples of giving to needy fellow Christians:
Romans 15:26 pleased them … to make a certain contribution for the poor saints
Galatians 6:10 Do good unto … who are of the house hold of faith
Philippians 4:15-16 [Paul said] concerning giving and receiving … ye sent once again unto my
necessity (see also 1 Corinthians 16:1, 2 Corinthians 9:12)
C. Every one to give according to their ability:
Deuteronomy 16:17 Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessings of the Lord … which
he hath given thee
Acts 11:29 The disciples, everyman according to his ability, determined to send relief unto
the brethren
1 Corinthians 16:2 Let every one of you lay by him in store [set aside to give], as God hath
prospered him
2 Corinthians 8: 12 It is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath
not
D. Wealthy Christians especially obligated to give:
Luke 8:3 Joanna, wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and many others ministered unto
[Jesus] of their substance
2 Corinthians 8:14-15 Your substance may be a supply for their want … As it is written, He that hath
gathered much
1 Timothy 6:17-19 Charge them that are rich … that they … ready to distribute, willingly to
communicate [share]
E. Giving to the church, which redistributes:
Acts 2:44-45 [They] parted them to all men, as every man had need
Acts 4:34-35 Distribution was made unto every man according as he had need
Acts 6:1 [The early church had a “daily ministration” to widows]
1 Timothy 5:4, 16 [Church’s duty to “relief them that are widows”]
F. Even poor believers encouraged to give:
1 Kings 17:9-16 [Poor widow of Zarephath gave sacrificially, and God blessed her with unending
supply of food in famine]
Mark 12:43-44 Poor widow hath cast more in … For they did cast in of their abundance; but she
of her want cast in all
2 Corinthians 8:1-4 In … their deep poverty … they were willing … praying us that we would receive
a gift
5. GIVING WITH RIGHT MOTIVES:
A. Give cheerfully:
2 Corinthians 9:7 Not grudgingly … for God loveth a cheerful giver
Deuteronomy 15:10 Thou shalt surely give him, and thine heart shall not be grieved
Exodus 25:2 Bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall
take my offering
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Exodus 35:21 Every one whose heart stirred him up, and … spirit made willing … brought the
Lord’s offering to the work
1 Chronicles 29:9 People rejoiced … because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the Lord
Hebrews 10:34 [Ye] took joyfully the spoilings of your goods
B. Give generously:
Proverbs 21:26 The righteous giveth and spareth not
C. Give till it hurts; not just what we can spare:
2 Samuel 24:24 Neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God that which doth cost
me nothing [Give even when it costs]
Luke 21:4 All these have of their abundance cast in ... but she of her penury hath cast in
all the living that she had
D. Give with pure motives:
1 Corinthians 13:3 Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor … and have not charity, it
profiteth me nothing
Matthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the alter … first be reconciled
Matthew 6:1 Do not your alms before men … otherwise ye have no reward of your father
Matthew 6:2 The hypocrite [give alms] … that they may have the glory of men … They have
their reward
Matthew 6:3 When thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right doeth
Luke 6:34-35 lend, hope for nothing again; your reward … great
6. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE WITHHOLD AND NOT GIVE:
A. It puts extra strain on others:
Philippians 2:30 he was nigh unto death … to supply your lack of service
B. God will see to it that we become poor:
Proverbs 11:24 There is that withholdeth … but it tendeth to poverty
Proverbs 13:7 There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing
Proverbs 28:27 He that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse
C. It shows we lack Christian love:
James 2:15-16 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And … ye give them
not … what doth it profit?
1 John 3:17-18 Whoso hath … and seeth his brother have need [and doesn’t give] … how
dwelleth the love of God in him?
D. When we give stingily or dishonestly:
2 Corinthians 9:6 He which soweth sparingly reap also sparingly
Malachai 1:7-10 Ye offer polluted bread … I have no pleasure in you neither will I accept an
offering at your hand
Malachai 1:13-14 Ye brought … torn, lame, and sick; should I accept this?
(see also Malachai 1:8, Acts 5:1-2, 9-10)

E. Beware of covetousness and greed:

Luke 12:15 Beware of covetousness: a man’s life consisteth not in … things
1 Timothy 6:10 The love of money is the root of all evil
Proverbs 28:16 He that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days
Ecclesiastes 5:10 He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver
James 5:1-5 your gold and silver be cankered; and the rust of them all shall be a witness
against you
(see also Ecclesiastes 5:13, Acts 5:1-10)

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7. TITHING
A. Giving 10% of our income to God’s work:
Leviticus 27:30 all the tithe of the land … is the lord’s: it is holy
Numbers 18:21 I have given the children of levi all the tenth … for their service which they serve
Numbers 18:24 The tithes … which they offer … unto the lord, I have given to the Levites [God’s
workers]
Deuteronomy 14:22 Thou shall truly tithe all the increase [profit]
(see also Deuteronomy 12:19, Nehemiah 10:37-39)
B. God will bless us for tithing:
Deuteronomy 14:28-29 Thou shall bring forth all the tithe … that the lord may bless thee in all the work
of thine hand
Proverbs 3:9-10 Honour the lord with … all thine increase: so shall thy bands be filled with plenty
Malachai 3:10 Bring ye all the tithes … and prove me … if I will not open you the windows of
heaven, and pour you out a blessing
Malachai 3:8-11 [God grants protection and freedom from curses]
C. Setting aside our tithe on a frequent basis:
1 Corinthians 16:2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God
hath prospered him
D. Freewill offerings above our 10% tithe-believers encouraged to give for special projects:
Exodus 35:5 Take … an offering unto the Lord: whosoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it
(see also 35:21-22)
2 kings 12:4-5,9-12 [Freewill offerings encouraged for the work of God]

8. OTHER ASPECTS OF GIVING:

A. Can help obtain a man’s gift of forgiveness:

Proverbs 19:6 Every man is a friend to him that giveth gifts
Proverbs 21:14 A gift in secret pacifieth anger
B. When not to accept gifts:
Exodus 23:8 Take no gift[with“ strings” attached] for the gift blindeth the wise, and
perverteth the … righteous.
Numbers 22:18 If Balak would give me his house ffull of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the
word of the Lord
1 Kings 13:7-10 [Young prophet refused gifts from disobedient king]
2 Kings 5:15-16 [Elisha refused Naaman’s money, but Gehazi coveted it – 5:20] is it a time to
receive money?
(Re: bribes, see Deuteronomy16:19; Proverbs 29:4; Ecclesiastes 7:7)

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 HOW TO FIND THE WILL OF GOD
1. THE PREREQUISITE: SUBMIT YOUR WILL TO THE LORD:

A. Seek His will, not your own:

Luke 22:42 Not my will, but thine, be done
John 5:30 I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father
John6:38 I came … not to do mine own will, but the will of [God]
B. Seek and trust the Lord:
Psalms 37:5 Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him
Proverbs 3:6 In all thine ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct
Psalms 143:10 [Pray] Teach me to do thy will … lead me
Colossians 1:9 Pray … that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will

C. Sincerely desire to do God’s will:

Psalms 40:8 I delight to do thy will, O my God

Matthew 6:10 Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven
John 4:34 My meat is to do the will of [God] that sent me
Ephesians 6:6 Doing the will of God from the heart

D. As you obey him, he will reveal his will to you:

Hosea 6:3 Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord

Mark 4:24-25 Unto you that hear shall more be given
John 7:17 If any man will do his will, he shall know
Romans 12:1-2 Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy … that ye may prove what is that
good … and perfect will of God

2. THE HOLY SPIRIT GUIDES US TO FIND GOD’S WILL:

John 16:13-14 The spirit … will guide you into all truth … and show you
1 Corinthians 2:11 The things knoweth no man, but the spirit of God
James 1:5 if any lack wisdom, let him ask of God (see also Phillipians 3:15)
1 John 2:27 The same anointing teacheth you of all things

3. THE FIRST PLACE TO LOOK FOR GOD’S WILL IS IN HIS WORD

A. The Bible is his written, revealed will:

Psalms 119:105 Thy word is a lamb unto my feet, and a light unto my path
Romans 2:18 Knowest his will … being instructed out of the law
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by … God … for instruction
(see also Deuteronomy 29:29; Psalms119:128; John 5:39; Acts 17:11; 1 Timothy 3:16)
B. Warning against not obeying the word:
Proverbs 28:9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law
Isaiah 8:20 If they speak not according to this word … no light

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C. Beware of interpreting it as you please:
2 Peter 1:20 No … scripture is of any private interpretation
2 Peter3:16 Unlearned … wrest … scriptures, unto their own destruction
Isaiah 28:10 For precept must be upon precept … line upon line, here a little, and there a
little
(see also Luke 10:25-26)
D. Read and study the word carefully:
Nehemiah 8:8 They read in … the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them
to understand
Matthew 9:13 Go ye and learn what the [scripture] meaneth
2 Timothy 2:15 Study … rightly dividing the word of truth

E. When a verse speaks specifically, directly to you:

Psalm 103:20 Ye … that do his commandment, hearkening unto the voice of his word
Psalm 119:130 The entrance of thy words … giveth understanding
Psalm 119:133 Order my steps in thy word
Proverbs 6:22-23 when thou goest, [the word] shall lead thee … and when thou awakest. It shall
talk with thee
Luke 24:32 Did not your heart burn within us … while [Jesus] opened to us the scriptures?
Acts 2:37 When they heard this, they were pricked in their heart

F. Pray and ask the Lord to help you understand:

Psalm 119:18 Open thou mine eyes, that i may behold wondrous things out of thy law
Psalm 119:34-35 Give me understanding, and I will keep thy law
Proverbs 2:3-11 If thou … liftest up thy voice for understanding … seekest … Then shalt thou
… find knowledge
Luke 24:45 Then opened [Jesus] their understanding, that they might understand the
scriptures

G. ASK MATURE CHRISTIANS TO EXPLAIN DIFFICULT PASSAGES TO YOU:

Acts 8:30-35 Understandest thou what thou readest? … How can I, except some man should
guide me?

4. GOD SOMETIMES REVEALS HIS WILL THROUGH DREAMS:

A. Revelatory dreams given to his people:
Numbers 12:6 I the Lord … will speak unto him in a dream
Job 33:15-17 In a dream … [God] sealeth their instruction
Jeremiah 23:28 The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell
Joel 2:28 Your old men shall dream dreams (see also Acts 2:17)

B. Old Testament examples:

 God gave Abraham a prophetic message in a dream (Genesis 15:12-16)
 God’s warning dream to Abimelech, the philistine king (Genesis 20:2-7)
 God promised Jacob that He was with him (Genesis 28:10-16)
 Jacob’s dream warned him to depart (Genesis 31:10-13)
 Laban warned not to harm Jacob (Genesis 31:22-24)
 Joseph’s two prophetic dreams (Genesis 37:5-9)
 Prophetic dreams of Pharaoh’s baker and butler (Genesis 40:1-13, 16-22)
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  Pharaoh’s dreams of coming famine (Genesis 41:17-32)
 Israel instructed to go to Egypt (Genesis 46:1-4)
 Gideon encouraged to do God’s will by hearing the dream of barleycake (Judges 7:9-15)
 Solomon’s dream (1 kings 3:5-15)
 Eliphaz’s dream (Job 4:12-21)
 Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams of coming world kingdoms (Daniel 2:1, 28-29, 31-45)
 King’s dreams and its interpretation given to Daniel (Daniel 2:16-19)
 Daniel’s dreams of coming world kingdoms (Daniel 7:1-28)
C. New Testament examples:
 Joseph’s four dreams of instruction and warning (Matthew 1:20-21; 2:13, 19-20,22)
 Wise men warned in a dream ( Matthew 2:12)
 Pilate’s wife dream warned them concerning Jesus ( Matthew 27:19)
D. Caution regarding determining God’s will by dreams:
Ecclesiastes 5:3 A dream [can come] through the multitude of business
Ecclesiastes 5:7 In the multitude of dreams … there are also divers vanities
Jeremiah 23:25-27 I have dreamed … deceit of their own heart
Jeremiah 23:32 I am against them that prophesy false dreams
Jeremiah 29:8 Neither hearken to your dreams which ye cause to be dreamed

5. GOD SOMETIMES REVEAL HIS WILL THROUGH VISION:

A. A vison is when God flashes a picture in your mind’s eye:
Numbers 12:6 I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision
Numbers 24:4 Falling into a trance, but having his eyes open
Ezekiel 1:1 The heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God
Hosea 12:10 I [God] have multiplied visions [to instruct people]
Joel 2:28 I will pour out my spirit … young men shall see visions
Acts 10:9-11 peter … fell into a trance, and saw heaven opened
B. Some old testament examples:
 Abraham received prophesy in a vision (Genesis 15:1-5)
 Micaiah’s vision of the defeat of Israel (1 kings 22:17, 35-36)
And of the council around the Lord’s throne (1 kings 22:19-23)
 Ezekiel’s visions (Ezekiel 1:1-4; 8:1-2; 10:1)
 Daniel’s visions of future events (Daniel 8:1-2-2; 10:4-7)
 Zechariah’s visions (Zechariah 1:7-8)
C. New Testament examples:
 Archangel Gabriel appeared and prophesied to Zacharias (Luke 1:11-13,22)
 Paul’s vision of Jesus (Acts 9:1-7; 26:13-19)
 The lord instructed Ananias in a vision (Acts 9:12)
 Paul’s vision of Ananias (Acts 9:12)
 An angel instructed Cornelius (Acts 10:1-6)
 The Lord instructed peter with vision of unclean animals (Acts 10:9-16)
 Paul’s vision of Macedonian man (Acts 16:9)
 God encouraged Paul in a vision (Acts 18:9-10)
D. Beware of false visions:
Jeremiah 14:14 They prophesy unto you a false vision … the deceit of their own heart
Jeremiah 23:16 They speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the Lord
Lamentations 2:14 `Thy prophets have seen vain and foolish things

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6. GOD SOMETIMES REVEALS HIS WILL THROUGH PROPHESY AND REVELATIONS:
A. Prophesy: the Lord speaking through you, or to your heart:
1 Kings 19:12 [God spoke to Elijah in] a still small voice
Jeremiah 1:9 Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth
Ezekiel 3:10-11 All my words that I shall speak unto thee receive in thine heart, and hear in
thine ears
Ezekiel 3:27 I will open thy mouth, and thou shalt say unto them
Luke 2:26 It was revealed unto [Simeon] by the Holy Ghost
Acts 2:17 In the last days … your sons and daughters shall prophesy
Acts 10:19-20 While Peter thought … the Spirit said unto him
Acts 13:1-2 There were … certain prophets … the Holy Ghost said
1 Corinthians 12:28 And God had set some [prophets] in thechurch
(see also Acts 8:26; 1 Corinthians 14:31; Ephesians 3:3,5)
B. Warning about false prophesy:
Deuteronomy 3:1-3 [Don’t heed prophets which try to turn you astray]
Deuteronomy 18:22 If the thing follow not, nor come to pass … the prophet hath spoken it
presumptuously
Jeremiah 23:21 I have not spoken them, yet they prophesied
Jeremiah 23:26 They are prophets of the deceit of their own heart
Ezekiel 13:6-7 Ye say, The Lord saith it: albeit I have spoken
Galatians 1:8 Though we, or an angel … preach any other gospel … let him be accursed
(see also Matthew 24:4-5, 11; 23:26)

7. GOD SOMETIMES REVEALS HIS WILL THROUGH GODLY COUNSEL:

A. Counselling with others who know the lord and his word well:
Exodus 18:25-26 Abel men … judged the people
Deuteronomy 17:8-11 If there arise a matter too hard for thee in judgement … matters of controversy
… come unto the … judge
Proverbs 11:14 In the multitude of counsellors there is safety
Proverbs 15:22 In the multitude of counselors [purposes] are established
Proverbs 20:18 Every purpose is established by counsel
2 Corinthians 13:1 In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established
(see also Acts 11:22-23; 15:22,32)

B. Coming to a reasonable agreement:

Acts 15:25 It seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord
Acts 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us

C. Warning about not seeking (or not heeding) to Godly counsel :

Proverbs 15:22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed
2 Chronicles 10:1-5 And Rehoboam … forsook the counsel which the [wiser] old man gave him, and
took counsel with young men
Acts 27:9-15, 21,41 [The sailors rejected Paul’s counsel, based their decisions on natural reasoning
(27:12-13) and were shipwrecked]
D. Be willing to change plans if God leads otherwise:
2 Samuel 7:1-13 [Nathan agreed to David’s plan to build a temple, but changed his mind after
God showed him otherwise]

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8. GOD SOMETIMES REVEALS HIS WILL BY OBVIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES:

A. God often sets up special circumstances to show his will:

2 Samuel 5:22-25 [God gave David a specific sign as to when to rise and attack the philistines]
Mark 14:12-16 Go into the city and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher … follow him
(see also Luke 22:7-13)
B. Sometimes obvious circumstances indicate God’s leading:
1 Corinthians 16:9 A great door and effectual is opened unto me
2 Corinthians 2:12 When I came to Troas … a door was opened unto me of the Lord
Revelation 3:8 I have set before thee an open door … for thou … hast kept my word
Luke 10:8-9 Into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat
(see also Matthew 10:11)
C. Examples of obvious circumstances:
Acts 8:30-35 [Ethiopian eunuch requested an explanation of Isaiah 53]
Acts 13:7 Sergius Paulus, [governor of Cyprus] called for Banabas and Saul, and desired to
hear the word of God
Acts 13:14-16 If ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on
Acts 17:18-22 May we know what this new doctrine … is?
John 2:1-11 There were a marriage … Jesus was called, and his disciples [His miracles there
caused many to believe ]
D. Changing circumstances and conditions, and acting accordingly:
1 Kings 17:1-9 [When the brook Cherith dried, Elijah knew it was time to move on, and God
told him where to go
Matthew 12:14-15 Pharisees … held a counsel … how they might destroy him
Luke 10:10 In whatsoever city they received you not, go your ways
(see also Matthew 10:14)
John 7:1 He would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him
John 11:53-54 Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews, but went
Acts 8:1,4 [God uses persecution and adverse circunstances to make you obey if you won’t
otherwise ] (see also Acts 1:8)
Acts 14:5-6 There was an assault … they were ware of it, and fled
Acts 20:3,6 [About to sail to Syria, Paul learned of an ambush and travelled another route
instead]
Acts 27:9-10 When sailing was dangerous Paul admonished them
Acts 27:12-15 [Warning regarding wrongly judging conditions]

E. Circumstances are not always an indication of God’s will:

Exodus 14:9-16 [The Red Sea seemed to be impassable closed door]
2 Kings 7:1-2,18 If the Lord would make open windows in heaven [to provide food], might this
be? … And it came to pass
Ecclesiastes 11:4 He that regardeth the clouds shall not reap
Jeremiah 1:6-7 [Youthful Jeremiah knew the elders might not listen to him, but was
commanded to prophesy anyway]
Matthew 14:15-21 This is a desert … and the time is now [late]; send the multitude away [But Jesus
fed them miraculously]

Matthew 15:32-38 Whence should we have so much a bread [ to feed them]?

F. Have faith and don’t look at the waves” and conditions:

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Matthew 14:30-31 When [Peter] saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid … Jesus …said unto him,
wherefore didst thou doubt?
Mark 2:2-5 when they couldn’t come nigh him for the [crowds] they [broke up] the roof …
and let down the bed
Luke 5:5 Master we have toiled all night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy
word I will
Luke 8:49-50 Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the master . [Jesus ] answered … fear not …
believe only
John 11:39-40 By this time he stinketh … Jesus saith … If thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest
see the glory of God
2 Corinthians 5:7 For we walk by faith, not by sight
Hebrews 11:23-27 By faith Moses [obeyed God] … not fearing the … king

9. GOD SOMETIMES REVEALS HIS WILL THROUGH THE “WITNESS OF THE SPIRIT”
A. Sometimes God can lead you by giving you a strong desire:
Psalms 37:4 Delight thyself also in the lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart
Proverbs 16:1 The preparation of heart in man … from the Lord
Proverbs 21:1 The kings heart Is in the hand of the Lord … he turneth it whithersoever he will
Judges 41:1-4 [Sampson desired a philistine woman] it was of the Lord
C. Beware about insisting on something you want:
Psalms 106:14-15 He gave them their request; but sent leaness into their soul.
Numbers 22:12-22,32 [Balaam-greedy for gain-went with wicked king Balak’s messengers ]
2 Kings 5:15-16,20-27 [Elisha refused to accept gifts from Naaman, but Gehazi covetously took some
and was struck leprous]
Acts 21:4, 10-14, 27, 33 [Paul determined to go to Jerusalem despite the Holy Spirit’s warning, and was
imprisoned]
James 4;3 Ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts

10. GOD SOMETIMES REVEALS HIS WILL THROUGH CONFIRMING SIGNS:

A. Setting a condition for a specific confirming sign:
Judges 6:36-40 [Gideon and the “sign” of wet and dry fleeces]
Genesis 24:14 [Abraham’s servant set a specific requirement to let him know who was to be
Isaac’s wife]
1 Samuel 14:8-10 But if they say thus … this shall be a sign unto you

B. Requiring a “sign” often indicate unbelief:

Matthew 12:39 An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign
John 4:48 Except ye see signs and wonders ye will not believe

11. SOMETIMES GOD’S WILL AND PLANS ARE CONDITIONAL:

A. What God does often depends upon man’s actions and reactions
1 Kings 21:17-29 [Judgment delayed because Ahab repented]
2 Chronicles 7:13-14 [If the people repented, God’s judgment turned away]
2 Chronicles 34:24-28 [Judgment delayed because Josiah repented]
Jeremiah 26:2-3,13 Turn every man from his evil ways, that I may repent me of the evil, which I
purposed to do unto them
Matthew 10:13 If they house be worthy, let your peace come it

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Hebrew 4:6 Some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in
because of unbelief (see also Hebrews 3:10-12, 18-19)

B. Examples of God changing his mind:

Exodus 32:9-14 Moses besought the Lord … and the Lord repented of the evil which He thought
to do (see also Genesis 19:17-21; 2 Kings 20:1-6; Amos 7:1-6; Jonah 3:4-10)

12. GOD OFTEN GIVES HIS PEOPLE ALTERNATIVE CHOICES:

A. He lets us choose within the boundary of his overall will:

1 Samuel 10:7 Do as occasion serve thee; for God is with thee
2 Samuel 24:11-15 [David allowed to choose his punishment]
1 Kings 3;5, 9-10 [God told Solomon t ask for whatever he wanted ]
1 Corinthians 7:36 Let him do what he will, he sinneth not
1 Corinthians 10:27 If any … bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go

B. Our plans should be subject to the will of God:

James 4:13-15 Ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall
Acts 18:21 I will return again unto you, If God will
Romans 1:10 Making request if, … I might have a prosperous journey by the wil of God to
come to you (see also 1 Corinthians 4:19; 1 Corinthians16:7; Hebrews 6:3)

C. Be sure you’re right before going ahead:

Romans 14:23 For whatsoever is not of faith is sin

D. In love, consider the effect of your actions on others:

Romans 14:15 If thy brother be grieved … walkest thou not charitably
1 Corinthians 8:9 Lest … this liberty of yours become a stumbling block
1 Corinthians 8:13 If meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh

13. WHAT TO DO WHEN GOD DOES NOT REVEAL HIS WILL:

A. God will conceal from the unyielded and disobedient

1 Samuel 28:6, 15-16 [When rebellious Saul prayed and enquired of the Lord, he didn’t answer him]
1 Kings 22:5-7, 19-23 [God sent a lying spirit to deceive wicked King Ahab and hide his true plans from
him]
Jeremiah 4:10 Thou hast greatly deceived this people … saying, Ye shall have peace; whereas
the sword [comes]
Micah 3:4, 6-7 He will not hear them … there is no answer of God
Luke 10:21 Thou hast hid these things from the [worldly] wise
2 Thessalonians 2:10-12Because they have received not the love of the truth … God shall send them
strong delusion (see also Isaiah 66:4)

B. How not to try to find God’s will:

[Avoiding divinations , séances, and all occult – related mediums see Leviticus 20:6; Deuteronomy 18:10-
11, 14; 2 Kings 21:6; 1 Chronicles 10:13; Isaiah 8:19; Ezekiel 21:21; Daniel 2:27-28]

14. WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU DESPERATELY REQUIRE SPECIFIC DIRECTIONS:

Psalm 73:24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel (see also Psalm 16:7)
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Proverbs 4:11 I have taught thee … I have led thee in right paths

A. God promises to tell you exactly where to go:

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide
thee with mine eyes
Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord
Isaiah 30:21 And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in
it.

B. You must depend upon God to lead you :

Jeremiah 10:23 The way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps
Psalm 25:4-5 Show me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths
Psalm 31:3 For thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me
Proverbs 4:26 Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established

C. The Lord sends his angels to guide you:

Exodus 23:20 I send an angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the
place which I have prepared
Exodus 32:34 Go … mine angel shall go before thee (see also Genesis 24:7)

D. You must seek and pray for his leading:

Psalm 25:4 Show me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths
Psalm 143:8 cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee
Proverbs 3:5-6 in all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths

E. Let God lead, even if you don’t know where you’re going:
Hebrews 11:8 Abraham, when he was called to go out … obeyed; and went out, not knowing
whither he went (see also Genesis 12:1)

15. YOU CAN COUNT ON GOD’S LEADING EVEN WHEN:

A. You’re discouraged and at wit’s end:

Psalm 23:4 Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death … thou art with me
Psalm 142:3 My spirit was overwhelmed … thou knewest my path

B. You feel lost:

Isaiah 42:16 I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that
they have not known

C. You desperately need guidance in time of danger:

2 Kings 6:8-12 [Elisha warned the king of Israel of the enemies’ plan]
Psalm 27:11 Teach me thy way … lead mw in a plain path, because of mine enemies
Psalm 78:43-52 [Though Egypt suffered plagues, God] made his own people to go forth like
sheep, and guided them

D. You need a place to stay or eat:

Psalm 107:6-7 They cried unto the Lord … and he led them forth by the right way … to a city a
habitation

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Mark 14:12-16 Go into the city and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water,
follow him (see also Luke 22:9-13)

E. You’re in a faraway, strange land:

Psalm 139:9-10 In the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me

16. THE WILL OF GOD IS SUPREME:

A. God is omnipotent and those whatever He wills:

Psalm 75:6-7 God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.
Daniel 4:17 The most high ruleth in the kingdom of men
Daniel 4:35 He doeth according to his will in the army of heaven
Acts 5:38-39 If this counsel … be of God ye cannot overthrow it
Romans 9:15-18 Not of him that willeth … but of God that showeth mercy
Ephesians 1:11 [God] walketh all things after the counsel of his own will

B. Even seeming bad things happen only to God’s will:

Job 2:3-19 [In order to test and purge Job] the Lord said unto Satan, he is in thine hand
Acts 2:23 [Jesus] delivered by the … foreknowledge of God
1 Peter 4:19 let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their
souls to him

17. REWARDS FOR DOING GOD’S WILL:

Matthew 7:21 HE that doeth the will of my Father [shall enter the kingdom]
Matthew 12:50 Whosoever shall do the will of [God ] is my brother
John 9:31 If any man … doeth [ God’s] will, him he heareth
John 15:14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you
Hebrews 10:17 After ye have done the will of God … receive the promise
1 John 2:17 He that doeth the will of god abideth forever
1 John 5:14 If we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us

18. GOD’S WILL ON SPECIFC SUBJECTS:

A. God’s will regarding salvation:

(see also Matthew 18:14; John 1:13; 6:39-40; Ephesians 1:5; 1 Timothy 2:4; James 1:18; 2 Peter 3:9)
B. Verses on different aspects of God’s will in a Christian life:
(see also 1 Corinthians 12:11; Galatians 1:4; Ephesians 5:17; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Hebrews 2:4; 10:10;
1 Peter 2:15; 3:17; 4:2,19)
C. The will of God is the path of life:
(see also Psalm 16:11; 23:3; 25:10; Proverbs 2:8,13,20; 4:11,18; 12:28; Micah 4:2)

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 OBEDIENCE OF GOD
1. OBEYING THE LORD:

A. Obedience to God is our duty:

Ecclesiastes 12:13 Keep his commandments: for this is whole duty of man
Deuteronomy 13:4 Walk after the Lord … and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye
shall serve him
Deuteronomy 27:9-10 Thou art become the people of the Lord … therefore obey the voice of the Lord
Jeremiah 11:7 I earnestly protested … saying, obey my voice
John 2:5 Whatsoever [Jesus] saith unto you, do it (see also Luke 17:10)

B. Obey whole heartedly:

Romans 6:17 Ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine
Deuteronomy 26:16 The Lord … hath commanded thee to do these statues … keep and do them with
all thine heart, and with all thy soul
Psalm 119:34 I shall keep thy law … with my whole heart (see also Psalm 119:69)

C. Obey in all things:

Deuteronomy 5:32 Observe to do therefore as the Lord … commanded you: ye shall not turn aside
to the right hand or to the left
2 Kings 22:2 And he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord … and turned not aside
to the right hand or to the left (see also 2 Corinthians 2:9)

2. IF WE LOVE AND KNOW THE LORD, WE WILL OBEY HIM:

John 14:15,21 If ye love me, keep my commandments (see also 14:23)
1 John 2:3 We know him, if we keep his commandments
1 John 3:24 He that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him
1 John 2:4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a lair
2 John 6 This is love, that we walk after his commandments

3. BLESSINGS FOR OBEYING THE LORD:

Deuteronomy 11:26-27 I set before you this day a blessing … if ye obey the commandments of the Lord
Joshua 1:8 Meditate therein [the word] … observe to do according to all that is written
therein … then thou shalt have good success

A. Souls are saved:

Roman 5:19 By the obedience of one shall many be made righteous
1 Timothy 4:16 Heed … the doctrine … in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that
hear thee

B. Spiritual blessings:
Exodus 19:5 If ye will obey my voice … ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all
people
Jeremiah 7:23 Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be My people
John 13:17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them
John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love
John 15:14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you
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Acts 5:32 Holy Ghost … given to them that obey [God]
1 Peter 1:22 Ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth (see also James 1:25)

C. Material blessings:
Deuteronomy 28:2 All these blessings shall come to thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken
unto the Lord
Deuteronomy32:46-47 Set your hearts unto all the words … and through this ye shall prolong your days
in the land
Job 36:11 If they obey and serve him, they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their
years in pleasures
Isaiah 1:19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the Land
Jeremiah 38:20 Obey … voice of the Lord: so it shall be well unto thee, and thy soul shall live
Hebrews 11:8 Abraham, when he was called to go into a place which he should after receive
for an inheritance, obeyed
(see also Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Jeremiah 35:18-19)

D. Protection:
Exodus 23:42 If thou shall obey and do all that I speak; then I will be an enemy unto thine
enemies
Leviticus 25:18 Do my statues … and shall dwell in the land in safety

4. JESUS’ EXAMPLE OF OBEDIENCE:

Luke 22:42 Nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. (see also Matthew 26:39,42)
John 5:30 I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father
John 14:31 As the Father gave me commandment, even so I do
Philippians 2:7-8 [Jesus ] took upon him the form of a servant … and became obedient unto death
Hebrews 5:8 Though he were a son, yet learned he obedience

5. YIELDEDNESS TO GOD:

A. Let the Lord have His way in your life:

Job 1:21 Lord gave, and … hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord
Isaiah 64:8 Lord … we are the clay, and thou art the potter
Matthew 6:10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done
John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease
Romans 12:1 present your bodies a living sacrifice … unto God
James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God
(see also Matthew 26:39; Luke 1:38; Romans 6:13,16)

B. Submit your plans to God:

Hebrews 6:3 This will we will do, if God permit
James 4:15 Ye ought to say, if the Lord will, we shall … do this

C. Obeying even when it hurts:

Genesis 22:2,12 Take now thy … only son Isaac, whom thou lovest and … offer him there for a
burnt offering (see also Hebrews 11:17-19)
Jeremiah 42:6 Whether it be good, or whether it be evil [hard to do], we will obey the voice of
the Lord our God
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Matthew 26:38-54 [Jesus agonized in prayer, knowing the cost, but then yielded to God’s will] (see
also Luke 22:44; John18:11)

D. Yield to God and pray for His leading:

Psalm 27:11 Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path
Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O Lord, and know my heart … know my thoughts … lead me in the
way everlasting
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God … lead me

6. OBEYING GOD RATHER THAN UNGODLY MEN:

Acts 4:13-20 Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto
God, judge ya
Acts 5:29 We ought to obey God rather than men (see also 1 Samuel 22:17;
1 Kings 18:3,13; Ezra 4:21; 5:1-5; Daniel 3:1-25; 6:1-13; Hebrews 11:23)

7. DISOBEDIENCE TO GOD – HOW THE LORD VIEWS IT:

Jeremiah 18:10 If [they] obey not … then I will repent of the good wherewith I said I would
benefit them
Matthew 7:26-27 Heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not … a foolish man, which built
his house upon sand
James 1:23-24 A hearer of the word, and not the doer, he is like unto a man beholding his
natural face … and straightway forgetteth

8. VARIOUS CATEGORIES OF DISOBEDIENCE:

A. Merely “agreeing” is not enough:

Ezekiel 33:30-33 They sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do
them
Matthew 21:28-31 He answered and said, I go sir: and went not
Matthew 23:2-3 Do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not
Luke 6:46 Why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things I say?
Titus 1:16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being …
disobedient

B. “Good works” not a subtitute for obedience:

1 Samuel 15:22 Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying …
to obey is better than sacrifice
Luke 11:42 Ye tithe … and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have
done, and not to leave the other undone
C. Half – hearted obedience:
2 Chronicles 25:2 And he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect
heart
Jeremiah 3:10 Judah hath turned round unto me with her whole heart, but feignedly
Acts 5:1-11 [Ananias and Sapphira pretended to give all, but kept back part of the money
from the sale of their land

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 STRENGHT AND POWER
1. GOD’S STRENGHT VS. OUR STRENGTH:

A. God is definitely more powerful than weak man:

Psalm 8:3-4 When I consider thy heavens … the moon and the stars, which thou hast [made]
… what is man?
Isaiah 40:15,17,22 All nations before him are as nothing … as a drop of a bucket … less than nothing
Daniel 4:35 All the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing, none can stay his hand
1 Corinthians 1:25 [Even] the weakness of God is stronger than men
(see also 2 Chronicles 20:6 Psalm 89:6)

B. An honest view of man and his strength:

Job 14:1-2 Man … is of a few days … he cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down
(see also Job 7:1)
Isaiah 40:6-8 All flesh is grass … the grass withereth
(see also Psalm 90:5-6; 10315:16; James 1:10-11; 1 Peter 1:24-25)
Job 8:9 We know nothing … our days upon earth are shadow
Psalm 39:5-6 Every man at his best state is altogether vanity
Psalm 144:3-4 What is man? Man is vanity: his days are as a shadow
(see also 1 Chronicles 29:15; Psalm 62:9; 90:10; Ecclesiastes 6:12)
Psalm 78:39 He remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away
(see also Isaiah 2:22; James 4:14-15)
Psalm 103:14 He knoweth our frame … remenbereth that we are dust.
(see also Genesis 18:27; Isaiah 29:5-6)
Job 25:6 Man is worm
Isaiah 40:22 The inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers (see also Job 4:18,20; Romans 7:18)

C. God is able to do absolutely anything:

Jeremiah 32:27 I am the Lord, the God all flesh: is there anything too hard for me? (see also
Genesis 18:14)
Job 42:2 I know that thou canst do everything
Psalm 62:11 Power belongeth unto God
Mathew 19:26 With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible
Mathew 28:18 All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth

D. God has total power over mans:

Job 12:10 In (his) hand is the soul of every living thing , and the breath of all mankind (see
also Daniel 5:23)
Job 12:13-25 With him is strength … he increaseth the nations, and destroyeth them
(see also Psalm 75:6-7; 107:33-40
Isaiah 43:13 There is none that can deliver out of my hand
Psalm 115:3 God hath done whatsoever he hath pleased
Isaiah 64:8 We are the clay, and thou out potter; we all are the work of thy hand (see also
Isaiah 45:9)
(see also 1 chronicles 29:12; 2 Chronicles 20:6; Job 9:4; Psalm 104:29-30; Isaiah 40:23,25)

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2. TRUST IN THE LORD, NOT YOUR OWN STRENGTH:

A. Let God strengthen you with His strength:

Ephesians 6:10 Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might
2 Chronicles 20:12 We have no might against this great company … neither know we what to do:
our eyes are upon thee
Psalm 20:7-8 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of
the Lord our God
Psalm 84:5 Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee
Psalm 105:4 Seek the Lord, and his strength: seek his face evermore
Isaiah 26:4 Trust ye in the Lord, in the Lord is everlasting strength
2 Corinthians 3:4-5 not … that we are sufficient of ourselves … but our sufficiency is of God
Philippians 3:3 We worship God … and have no confidence in the flesh
(see also Exodus 15:2; 2 Samuel 22:33; Psalm 27:1; 68:28,35; 118:8; 147:10-11)

B. He can do what you can’t do:

Zechariah 4:6 Not by (your) might nor by power, but by my spirit
1 Samuel 2:9 By [your own] strength shall no man prevail
Psalm 60:11 Give us help form trouble: vain is the help of a man
Psalm 127:1 Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it
John 15:5 Without me ye can do nothing (see also Job 9:19; Psalm 33:16-17)

3. OUR WEAKNESS CAUSES US TO DEPEND UPON GOD:

A. God’s strength is manifest in our weakness:
2 Corinthians 4:7 We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the … power may be of God, and
not of us
Isaiah 40:29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth
strength
Psalm 8:2 Out of the mouth of babes … hast thou ordained strength
Psalm37:39 The Lord … is their strength in the time of trouble
Psalm 73:26 My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is [my] strength
Isaiah 25:4 Thou (art) a strength to … the needy in his distress
Isaiah 41:10 I will strengthen thee; yea I will help thee
2 Corinthians 1:8-9 We were pressed out of measure, above strength … but we (do) not trust In
ourselves, but in God
2 Corinthians12:9-10 “My strength is made perfect in (your) weakness” when I am weak, then I am
strong
2 Corinthians 13:4 We are weak in him, but we shall live … by the power of God
Hebrews 11:34 [Bible saints:] out of weakness were made strong (see also Psalm 94:17-18.)

B. When you have no other help, He’ll strengthen you:

Psalm 72:12 He shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no
helper
Luke 22:43,45 [Jesus’ disciples slept, but] an angel (came) from heaven strengthening him
2 Titmothy 4:16-17 No man stood with me, but all men forsook me … the Lord stood with me, and
strengthened me
(see also Psalm 27:10)

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C. He will give strength day by day to keep you going:

Deuteronomy 33:25 As the days, so shall thy strength be

Matthew 6:34 Take no thought for the morrow … sufficient unto the say is the evil thereof

D. When you have only little strength, the Lord will help you:
Psalm 37:24 Though he fall … the Lord upholdeth him with his hands
Isaiah 35:4 Say unto them that are of a fearful heart, “Be strong”
Daniel 11:34 When they fall, they shall be holpen with a little help
Revelation 3:8 Thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word

4. GOD CAN STRENGTHEN AND USE YOU:

A. How to receive God’s power:
Joshua 1:5-9 Only be thou strong and very courageous … observe the [word] … then thou
shalt have good success
2 Chronicles 16:9 The Lord ( shews) himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect
toward him
Nehemiah 8:10 The joy of the Lord is your strength
Psalm 138:3 When I cried thou … strengthenedst me with strength
Isaiah 27:5 Let him take hold of my strength
Isaiah 30:15 In quietness and in confidence (faith) shall be your strength
Isaiah 40:31 They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength
Daniel 11:32 People that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits
Micah 3:8 I am full of power by the spirit of the Lord … and of might
Acts 1:8 Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you
Ephesians 3:16 Strengthen with might by his spirit in the inner man
1 John 2:14 Ye are strong [because] the word if God abideth in you

B. He strengthens you with His power:

Psalm 18:29-34 It is God that girdeth me with strength
Psalm 68:28 Thy God hath commandeth thy strength
Psalm 68:35 God … giveth strength and power unto his people
Psalm 71:16 I will go in the strength of the Lord
Psalm 80:17 Let thy hand be upon the man … whom thou madest strong for thyself
Psalm 84:5,7 Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee … they go from strength to
strength
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me
Colossians 1:11 Strengthened with all might (by) his glorious power
Matthew 10:1,8 He gave (his disciples) powe against unclean spirits (see also Judges 14:6,19; 15:14-15;
Psalm 8:2;
Luke 10:19

C. Praise God for strengthening you:

Psalm 28:7-8 The Lord is my strength … I am helped … with my song will I praise the Lord

D. Give God the glory for working through you:

Philippians 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you
1 Peter 4:11 Let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be
glorified
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Isaiah 10:13,15 [Proud] saith, “By (my) strength … I have done it” shall the ax boast itself against
him that heweth?
Jeremiah 9:23-24 Let not … the mighty man glory in his might … but glory in this , that he knoweth
me
Acts 12:21-23 The angel of the Lord smote (Herod) because he gave not God the glory

E. Sometimes the Lord Himself wants to do the whole thing:

Exodus 14:13-14 Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord … Lord shall fight for you, and you
shall hold your peace
Judges 7: All [Gideon and his 300 let God fight the battle His way]
2 Chronicles 20:15 Be not afraid nor … the battle is not yours, but God’s
2 Chronicles 20:17 Ye shall not need to fight this battle: stand ye still, and see the salvation of the
Lord
Nehemiah 4:20 Our God shall fight for us
Psalm 18:17 He delivered me from my strong enemy … for they were too strong for me
Isaiah 30:7 Their strength is to sit still

5. DON’T TRUST IN YOURSELF:

A. Warnings against trusting in your own strength:

Psalm 52:5-7 God shall destroy … the man that made not God his strength
Psalm 118:8-9 It is better to trust in the Lord than … in man
Psalm 146:3 Put not your trust in princes, nor in … men, in whom there is no help
Jeremiah 9:23-24 Let not … the mighty man glory in his might … but glory … that he knoweth me,
that I am the Lord
Jeremiah 17:5 Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose
heart departed from the Lord
John 15:4-5 Without me ye can do nothing (see also Isaiah 31:3)

B. What can happen when you rely on your own strength and plans:
2 Chronicles 26:16 When he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he
transgressed against the Lord
Hosea 10:13 Ye have reaped iniquity … because thou didst trust in thy way, in the multitude
of thy mighty men
1 Corinthians 10:12 Him that thinketh he standeth that heed lest he fall (see also 1 Samuel 15:1-28; 28:4-
25; 31:1-8)

Lack of strength often due to sin:

Psalm 31:10 My strength faileth because of mine iniquity

Leviticus 26:27,36-37 I will send a fainthness into your hearts … and ye shall have no power to stand
before your enemies
Joshua 7:12 (They) could not stand before their enemies … because they were accursed
Judges 2:13-15 They forsook the Lord … [His] anger was against Israel … they could not stand
before their enemies (see also Amos 2:13-15)

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6. POWER WHEN WITNESSING:

A. Power comes from the Holy Spirit:

Acts 1:8 Ye shall receive power (when) the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be
witnesses
Micah 3:8 I am full of power by the spirit of the Lord … to declare to Israel his sin
John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing
Acts 4:8,13 Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost … they saw the boldness of Peter
Acts 4:31,33 They were all filled with the Holy Ghost … and with great power gave the
apostles witness
1 Thessalonians 1:5 For our gospel came unto you … in power
2 Timothy 1:7 God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power

B. No man can stand against the power of God’s spirit:

Luke 21:15 For I will give you a mouth … which all your adversaries shall not be able to
gainsay (contradict) nor resist
Jeremiah 5:14 I will make my words in thy mouth fire, and this people wood
Acts 6:10 They were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he (Stephen)
spake
2 Corinthians 10:4 The weapons of our warfare are … mighty through God to the pulling down of
strong holds

C. It has to be by God’s power:

1 Corinthians 1:18 The preaching of the cross … is the power of God
1 Corinthians 2:4-5 My preaching was … in … the spirit and power: That your faith should … stand …
in the power of God
1 Corinthians 4:20 The kingdom of God is not in word, but in power (see also Luke 4:14)

D. God can take you even when you’re weak:

Galatians 4:13-14 [Paul witnessed to and won the Galatians even though suffering infirmity in the
flesh]

E. God can take over and powerfully use you:

Exodus 4:10-12 I am not eloquent … I am slow of speech. The Lord said, “I will be with thy
mouth, and teach thee”
Jeremiah 1:6-9 I cannot speak. The Lord said, “whatsoever I command thee ... speak. I have put
my words in thy mouth”
Matthew 10:20 For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit … which speakest in you (see also Mark
13:11; Luke 12:12)
Acts 4:13 They … perceived (Peter and John) were … ignorant men, they took knowledge
… that they had been with Jesus (see also 1 Samuel 10:6)

7. GOD’S POWER VS. YOUR ADVERSARIES’ PHYSICAL POWER:

A. For your spiritual battles, defending the faith:

Jude 1:3 Ye should earnestly contend for the faith
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 We do not war after (in) the flesh: For the weapon of our warfare fare not
carnal, but mighty through God (see also 1 Corinthians 10:11)

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B. If you must physically defend your loved ones or country:

Luke 11:21 When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace
John 10:11 The good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep

C. Physical might is no match for the power of God:

1 Samuel 17:45 Thou (Goliath) comest to me with a sword and with a spear … but I come to
thee in the name of the Lord
2 Chronicles 32:8 With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord to help us, and to fight our
battles
Psalm 9:19-20 Lord, let no man prevail … put them in fear: that (they) may know themselves to
be put to men
Isaiah 31:3 The Egyptians are men and not God … when the Lord shall stretch out his hand
… they all shall fail (see also Hosea 1:7)

D. They may seem strong, but their strength has departed:

Numbers 14:9 Neither fear the people … for they are a bread for us their defense is departed
from them
Jeremiah 46:17 Pharaoh king of Egypt is but a noise; he hath passed the time appointed [his
time is up]
E. God decides the outcome, not physical might:
1 Samuel 2:4 The bows of the mighty men are broken, [whereas] they that stumbled are
girded with strength
2 Chronicles 25:8 God hath power to help, and cast down
Psalm 33:16 There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not
delivered by much strength
Psalm 33:17 An horse is a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver any by great strength
Psalm 35:10 The Lord deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him
Psalm 44:3-7 They got not the land … by their own sword … neither did their own arm save
them: but thy arm

F. You are not to trust in physical might to fight your foes:

2 Kings 18:21 Thou trusteth upon … this bruised reed … on which if a man lean, it will (pierce)
his hand
Psalm 44:5-6 Through thee will we push down our enemies: I will not trust in … my sword (to)
save me
Isaiah 31:1 Woe to them that go to Egypt for help … because they are very strong; but look
unto … the Lord

G. You are not to fear the power of man:

Deuteronomy 3:22 Ye shall not fear them: the Lord shall fight for you
Psalm 27:1-3 Of whom shall I be afraid? Though an host should encamp against me, my heart
shall not fear
Psalm 118:6 The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?
Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man bringeth snare
Isaiah 2:22 Cease (fearing) man, whose breath is in his nostrils
Isaiah 51:12-13 (Why) art thou … afraid of a man that shall die …as grass; and forgettest the
Lord thy maker

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Jeremiah 1:8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord
Luke 12:4-5 Be not afraid of them that kill the body

H. God is on your side, and you shall win:

Deuteronomy 31:8 The Lord … doth go before thee; he will be with thee
Romans 8:31 If God be for us, who can be against us? (see also 2 Chronicles 14:11-12; 20:12-25;
Zephaniah 3:17)

I. The armies of heaven are on your side:

2 Kings 6:14-17 [Elisha said] they that be with us are more than they that be with them
2 Chronicles [Hezekiah said] there be more with us than with him (see also Joshua 5:13-14; Psalm
68:17; 97:11;
Isaiah 37:33-36)

J. You become far more powerful than your adversaries:

1 John 4:4 Greater is he that is in you, than he … in the world
Joshua 23:9-10 One shall chase a thousand, for God figheth for you. (see also Dueteronomy 11:25;
28:7)

K. God can help you win overwhelming odds:

1 Samuel 14:6 No restraint to the Lord to save by many or by few
2 Chronicles 14:11 Lord, it is nothing with thee to help, whether with many or with them that have
no power
2 Chronicles 16:8-9 A huge host … because thou didst rely on the Lord, he delivered them into thine
hand

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 PROTECTION
1. TRUSTING IN THE LORD IS YOUR ONLY SURE REFUGE:

A. Safety and protection are of the Lord:

Psalm 127:1 Except the Lord keep the city, the watchmen waketh but in vain
Proverbs 21:31 The horse is prepared … but safety is of the Lord

B. The lord is able to protect you:

Exodus 6:6-7 I will redeem you with a stretched out arm, and with great judgments
Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save
Isaiah 59:1 The Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save
Romans 4:21 What he [has] promised, he [is] able to perform
Ephesians 3:20 He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all … we ask

C. The Lord is your defense and protective shield:

Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is thy refuge
Psalm 3:3 `Thou, O Lord art a shield for me
Psalm 5:12 With favour wilt thou copass him as with a shield
Psalm 89:18 For the Lord is our defense
Psalm 115:11 Trust in the Lord: he is their help and their shield
Isaiah 33:16 He shall dwell on high: place of defense … the rocks (see also Psalm 18:35; 107:41)

D. He is your tower and fortress, your high rock:

2 Samuel 22:2-3 The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer
Psalm 9:9 The Lord will be my refuge … in times of trouble
Psalm 61:3 Thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy
Psalm 62:6 He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defense
Psalm 71:2-4 Be thou my strong habitation … deliver me O my God, out of the hand of the
wicked
Psalm 91:2 He is my refuge and my fortress, in him will I trust
Proverbs 18:10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it,
and is safe

E. He is your protection in times if great danger:

Isaiah 25:4 A refuge from the storm … when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm
against the wall
Nahum 1:6-7 The Lord is … a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that
trust in him
Zephaniah 2:3 Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth … ye shall be hid in the day of the
Lord’s anger

F. He is your hiding place:

Psalm 27:5 In the time of trouble he shall hide me
Psalm 32:7 Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt
compass me about
Psalm 119:114 Thou art my hiding place and shield: I hope in thy word
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Psalm 143:9 I flee unto thee to hide me

2. GOD WILL PROTECT YOU BECAUSE HE LIVES YOU:

A. The Lord delivers His people who trust Him:

2 Samuel 8:6 The Lord preserved David withersoever he went

Psalm 37:28 The Lord forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved
Psalm 37:40 The Lord … shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they
trust in him
Psalm 91:9-10 Because thou hast made the Lord … thy habitation; there shall no evil befall
thee
2 Timothy 4:18 The Lord shall deliver me from every evil work

B. The Lord loves, favours and will protect you:

Deuteronomy 33:12 The beloved of the Lord shall dwell in safety by him
2 Samuel 22:20 He delivered me, because he delighted in me
Job 1:10 Hast thou not made an hedge about him (Job), and about his house, and all that
he hath one very side
Psalm 17:8-9 Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings …
from my deadly enemies
Psalm 41:11 By this I know that thou favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph
over me
Psalm 59:9 When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back … for God is with me
Psalm 91:7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall
not come nigh thee
Psalm 105:12-15 He reproved kings for their sakes; saying, touch not mine anointed, and do my
prophets no harm
Matthew 10:29-31 [God even watches over sparrows, and] ye are of more value than many
sparrows
C. He is always close by to protect you:

Genesis 28:15 I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest
Deuteronomy 33:12 the lord shall cover him all the day long, and he shall dwell between his
shoulders
Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms
Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge … a very present help in trouble
Psalm 109:31 He shall stand at [his] right hand … to save him

D. The Lord’s guardian angels protect you:

Psalm 34:7 The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and
delivereth them
Psalm 91:11-12 He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways
Isaiah 63:9 In affliction … angel of his presence saved them
Daniel 3:28 God … hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him
Daniel 6:20,22 God hath sent his angels, and shut the lions’ mouth (see also Exodus14:19-20; 23:20; 2
Kings 6:15-18;
2 Chronicles 32:20-21; 2 Kings 19:35; Acts 5:19; 12:6-10)
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E. Rest in the Lord, trusting God to protect you:

Exodus 14:14 Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace
Exodus 33:14 My presence shall go with thee, I will give thee rest
Psalm 112:7-8 He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed (steadfast), trusting in the
Lord
Psalm 118:6-7 The Lord is on my side; what can man do unto me?

F. Thank the Lord for protecting you:

Psalm 5:11 Let them shout for joy, because thou defendest them
Psalm 28:7 I am helped … with my song will I praise him
Psalm 59:16-17 I will sing of thy power … for thou hast been my defense and refuge in the day
of trouble
Psalm 98:1 Sing unto the Lord … his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the
victory

3. THE LORD CAN PROTECT YOU FROM….

A. The enemy’s traps and snares:

Psalm 91:3 He shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler
Psalm 124:6-7 Blessed be the Lord, who hath not given us as a prey … [we are] escaped as a
bird out of the snare
Psalm 141:1 Let wicked fall into their own nets, whilst I escape
B. Disease and epidemics:
Exodus 15:26s I will put none of these diseases upon thee
Deuteronomy 7:15 The Lord will take away from thee all … evil diseases … but will lay them upon all
them that hate
Thee
Psalm 91:3 He shall deliver thee from … the (perilous) pestilence
Psalm 91:10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling
C. Injury:
Psalm 34:20 He keepeth all his bones: no tone of them is broken
Psalm 91:11-12 Angels … beat thee up … lest thou dash thy foot
Mark 16:18 If they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them
D. Fire and burning:
Psalm 29:7 The voice of the Lord divideth the flames of fire
Isaiah 43:2 When thou walkest through the fire thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the
flame kindle upon thee
Daniel 3:25,27 These men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their
head singed
E. Drowning:
Psalm 107:23-30 [The Lord can save you from terrible storms at sea]
Isaiah 43:2 When thou passeth through the waters, I will be with thee … they shall not
overflow thee
Matthew 8:23-27 There arose a great tempest … he rebuked the winds and sea … was a great
calm
(see also Matthew 14:23-32)
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Acts 27:14-44 Exceedingly tossed with a tempest ... all hope taken away … it came to pass,
they all escaped safe to land (see also Jonah 1:4,11-17; 2:3,1; 1 Peter 3:20; Genesis 7:23)
F. Death:
Psalm 41:2 The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive
Daniel 6:27 He delivereth and rescueth, and he … hath delivered Daniel from the power of
the lions
G. Dangers while travelling:
Genesis 28:15 I will keep thee in places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this
land
Exodus 23:20 I send an angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the
place which I have prepared
Deuteronomy 28:6 Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when
thou goest out
Psalm 105:13-15 When they went from one nation to another … he suffered no man to do them
wrong
Psalm 121:8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in
John 10:4 When he putteth forth his sheep, he goeth before them
(see also Exodus 33:14-15; Psalm 37:23; Isaiah 55:12; 63:9)

H. Every kind of evil:

Job 5:19-22 He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee
Psalm 46:1-3 God is our refuge … therefore will not we fear, though … the mountains be
carried into the … sea
Psalm 121:7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil
Luke 10:19 I give you power … nothing shall by any means hurt you
2 Thessalonians 3:3 The Lord is faithful, who shall … keep you from all evil
2 Timothy 4:18 The Lord shall deliver me from every evil work

4. PROTECTION FROM THOSE WHO SEEK TO HARM YOU:

2 Samuel 22:49 Thou hast lifted me above them that rose up against me: thou hast delivered me
from the violent man
2 Chronicles 32:8 With us is the Lord our God … to fight our battles
Job 5:12-13 He disappointed the devices of the crafty, so that their hands cannot perform
their enterprise
Psalm 3:6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people … against me
Psalm21:8,11 They intended evil … which they are not able to perform
Psalm37:32-33 The wicked … seeketh to slay (the righteous). The Lord will not leave him in his
hand
Psalm91:7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not
come nigh thee
Psalm 97:10 He delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked
Psalm118:13 Thou has thrust sore at me … but the Lord helped me
Isaiah 54:17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper
Jeremiah 1:19 They shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail
Jeremiah 39:17 I will deliver thee … thou shalt not be given into the hand of the men of whom
thou art afraid

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5. SPECIAL PROTECTION PROMISED IN THE LAST DAYS:
Luke 21:17-18 Ye shall be hated of all nations … but there shall not an hair of your head perish
Revelation 7:3 Hurt not the earth … till we have sealed the servants of our God in their
foreheads
Revelation9:3-4 [Locust will] hurt … only those men which have not the seal of God in their
foreheads
Revelation 11:3,5-6 If any man will [try] hurt them (two witnesses), fire … devoureth their enemies

6. CONDITIONS FOR HAVING GOD’S PROTECTION:

A. Faith in God is essential:
Psalm 37:40 The Lord shall … deliver them from the wicked … because they trust in him
Daniel 6:23 No man of hurt was found upon him (Daniel), because he believed in God
1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith (see also Psalm 33:22)
B. You must pray in the time of need:
Genesis 32:1-12 [Jacob’s earnest prayer for protection from Esau and his 400 men] (see also 32:24-
30)
2 Samuel 22:4 I will call on the Lord, so shall I be saved from my enemies
Psalm 34:17 The righteous cry, and the Lord … delivereth them
Psalm 50:15 Call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver (see also Psalm 18:6; 59:1-3)
C. You must love and reverence the Lord:
2 Chronicles 16:9 [The Lord shows] himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect
toward him
Psalm 31:33 Love the Lord … for the Lord perserveth the faithful
Psalm 33:18-19 The eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him … to deliver their soul form
death
Psalm 34:7 Angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth
them
Psalm 91:14-15 Because he hath set his love upon me, I will deliver
Psalm 145:20 The Lord perserveth them all that love him (see also Proverbs 16:7)
D. You must stay very close to the Lord:
Psalm 57:1 In the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be over
past
Psalm 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most high shall abide under the
shadow of the Almighty
E. You must be obedient and do good;
Exodus 23:22 If thou indeed obey his voice … [the Lord will protect]
Psalm 34:17 The righteous cry, and the Lord … delivereth them
Psalm 41:1-2 Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of
trouble
Psalm 81:13-14 Oh that my people had hearkened unto me … I should have … turned my hand
against their adversaries
Proverbs 1:33 Whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely
Daniel 6:16 God whom thou servest continually will deliver thee
1 Peter 3:12 The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their
prayer
(see also Psalm 7:10; 1 Peter 3:13)

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F. The importance of doing your part and obeying:
Hebrew 11:7 Noah … prepared an ark to the saving of his house (see also Genesis 6:12-14,22;
1:7,11,17-23)
Hebrew 11:31 The harlot Rehab perished not … when she [hid the spies and hung down the
red cord]
(see also Joshau 2:4-21)
Exodus 12:21-23 [The Hebrews were required to paint blood on their doorpost so that the
destroyer would pass over]
G. Don’t be reckless, foolhardy, or disobedient:
1 Kings 22:1-4,29-37 [King warned not to go to battle; he went, disguised as a common soldier, and
was killed by a stray arrow]
2 Chronicles 35:20-24 [King Josiah rashly went out to fight the Egyptians, who didn’t want to battle
with him, and he was killed]
Proverbs 16:5 Though hand join in hand (join forces for strength), he (the proud heart) shall
not be unpunished
Hosea 8:3 Israel hath cast off the thing that is good: the enemy shall pursue him
Matthew 4:5-7 The devil … saith unto him, cast thyself down … Jesus saith, thou shalt not tempt
the Lord thy God
Acts 19:29-31 [The disciples and Paul’s friend advise him not to “adventure himself” into the
bloodthirsty mob]
Acts 21:17-30 [Paul went to Jerusalem despite God’s warnings] (see also Acts 20:22-23; 21:4,10-14)

7. SOME EXAMPLES OF DIVINE PROTECTION:

Genesis 19:15-17 [The angel of the Lord helped Lot and his family to escape the doomed city of
Sodom]
Genesis 35:5 [God made Canaanites afraid to pursue his people]
Genesis 45:5-7 [Jacob’s brothers sold him as a slave into Egypt, but God preserved him and
turned the situation to good]
Exodus 12:21-23 [The angel of the Lord smote the Egyptian, but passed over the Hebrews’
houses]
Exodus 14:9-10,19-20 [The angel of the Lord and piller of fire went between the Hebrews and the
pursuing Egyptians army]
Joshua 3:10-17 [God held back the swollen, flooded Jordan river, so that millions of Hebrews
could cross it safely]
Joshua 10:11-14 [The Lord sent hailstones to smite Joshua’s enemies, as well as delaying the
sun’s setting for him]
1 Samuel 17:34-37 [The Lord delivered David from a lion, a bear, and Goliath]
2 Kings6:24; 7:5-7 [Syrians besieged Samaria, but] the Lord made (them) to hear a noise of chariots
… and they fled
Daniel 6:16-22 [The Lord protected Daniel in the lion’s den]
Jonah 1:15,17; 2:10 The Lord prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah [ it kept him from drowning,
and took him to his destination]
Matthew 2:13-16 [The Lord warned Joseph in a dream to flee with Mary and baby Jesus into
Egypt]
Special chapter about protection: Psalm 91- The “Protection Psalm” (see also Psalm 121; 124)

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 SUPPLY
1. GOD CAN SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEEDS:

A. He has promised to supply our needs:

Philippians 4:19 God shall supply all your need according to his riches
Matthew 6:33 Seek ye first the Kingdom of God … and all these things shall be added unto you
Psalm 23:1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want (lack)
Psalm 34:10 They that seek the Lord shall not (lack) any good thing
Psalm 37:25 I (have) not seen righteous forsaken … your Father (shall) give good things to
them that ask him
Romans 8:32 He that spared not his own son … shall he not freely give us all things?
(see also Deuteronomy 2:7; Psalm 68:19; 81:10; Malachi 3:10; Matthew 6:8,25-34)

B. God is the source of all supply:

Psalm 145:15-16 Thou openest thine hand, and satisfieth the desire of every living thing
1 Chronicles 29:14 All things come to thee, and of thine own have we given thee
Psalm 104:13-15 He causeth … herb (to grow) for man: that he may bring forth good out of the
earth
James 1:17 Every good gift … is from above, and cometh from (God) (see also Psalm 65:9-13;
Genesis 1:29; 9:3)

C. He owns the entire world:

Exodus 19:5 All the earth is mine
Psalm 24:1 The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof
Psalm 50:10-11 Every beast is mine … and the cattle upon a thousand hills is mine
Psalm 89:11 The earth is thine: the world and the fullness thereof

2. GOD CAN DO MIRACLES TO SUPPLY:

Numbers 11:21-23 [God promised meat for a month, Moses doubted it, so] the Lord said, ‘Is the
Lord’s hand waxed short?’
.2 Kings 4:1-6 [The Prophets’s widow borrowed vessels and they miraculously filled with
enough oil to pay her debts]

A. Food:
Exodus 16:12-15 [God miraculously supplied quail and manna in desert]
Numbers 11:18-20 [God sent a month’s supply of quail] (see also 11:31-32)
Psalm 78:23-29 he opened the doors of heaven, and rained down manna … corn of heaven …
angel’s food … meat to full (see also Psalm 105:40)
Psalm 132:15 I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread
1 Kings 17:4 I have commanded the revens to feed thee there
1 Kings 17:16 The barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the curse of oil fail [during the 3½ -
year famine]
1 Kings 19:5-8 An angel said unto (Elijah), “Arise and eat” … and behold, a cake baken on the
coals, and a curse of water
2 Kings 4:42-43 [Elijah fed 100, multiplying 20 loaves and some corn]
Mark 6:34-44 [Jesus fed 5,000 men, besides women and children, by multiplying five loaves
and two fishes]
(See also Matthew 14:21)
84
Mark 8:1-9 [Jesus fed 4,000, multiplying seven loaves]
Revelation 12:6,14 [Church “fed, nourished” 3½ years in wilderness] (see also Psalm 23:5; Luke 5:4-7;
John 21:5-6,11)
B. WATER
Genesis 21:14-19 [Hagar dying of thirst, God showed her a well]
Exodus 17:1-6 [At Horeb, the Lord brought water out of a rock]
Numbers 20:2,7-11 [At Meribah, God again brought water from a rock]
Judges 15:15-19 [God supplied water from a jawbone for Sampson]
2 Kings 3:9,17,20 [God miraculously supplied water for an army] (see also Psalm78:15-16; 105::41; Isaiah
41:17-18)
C. God can even purify impure food and water:
Exodus 15:23-25 [Bitter waters of Marah miraculously made sweet]
2 Kings 2:19-22 [Undrinkable water of Jericho healed]
2 Kings 4:38-41 [Poisonous gourd in the pottage rendered harmless] (see also Mark 16:18)
D. Clothing and other necessities:
Deuteronomy 29:5 I have led you forty years … your clothes are not waxen old … thy shoe is not
waxen old upon thy foot
Matthew 6:25-26,30 If God clothe the grass … shall he not clothe you?

3. SUPPLY DURING FAMINE:

A. Famine predicted in the last days:
Matthew 24:3,7 [In] the end of the world … there shall be famines … in diverse places
Mark 13:8 There shall be famine and troubles

B. The Lord promises to feed in the last days:

Job 5:19-20 In famine he (God) shall redeem thee from death
Psalm 33:18-19 The eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him … to keep them alive in famine
Psalm 37:18-19 The Lord knoweth the days of the upright … in the days of famine they shall be
satisfied
Proverbs 10:3 The Lord will not suffer [allow] … the righteous to famish
Ezekiel 36:29-30 I will increase (the corn), and lay no famine upon you. I will multiply the fruit of
the trees, and … of the field

C. He usually warns His people son they can make praparations:

Genesis 41:25-36,47-49 [God showed Joseph and Pharaoh that a famine was coming and they prepared
for it by storing away food]
Acts 11:27-30 [God warned that a dearth was coming, and believers sent relief money to their
affected brethren] (see also Amos 3:7)

4. CONDITIONS TO GOD’S SUPPLY:

A. We must please God and be obedient:
Matthew 6:33 Seek ye first the kingdom of God … and all these things shall be added unto you
2 Chronicles 1:7-12 [God gave king Solomon fabulous riches and whealth when he sought the good
of the kingdom frist]
Psalm 34:9 There is no want (lack) to them that fear him
Psalm 34:10 They that seek the Lord shall not (lack) any good thing
Psalm37:3 Do good … and verily thou shall be fed
Psalm 37:18-19 The Lord knoweth … the upright … in the days of famine they shall be satisfied

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Psalm37:25 I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken
… begging bread
Psalm 84:11 No good things will he withhold from them that walk uprightly
Proverbs 13:25 `Righteous eaten to satisfying … wicked shall (lack)
Isaiah 1:19 If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land
1 John 3:22 Whatsoever we ask, we receive … because we keep his commandments, and do
… things …pleasing in his sight (see also Deuteronomy 121:10-15; 29:9; Psalm 111:5)

B. Examples of obeying and doing our part first:

1 Kings 17:2-5 Get thee hence … and hide by the brook of Cherith … revens feed thee there. So
he went
1 Kings 17:9-10 Arise, get thee to Zarepath. So he arose and went
2 Kings 4:1-6 Go borrow … all of thy neighbours empty vessels, borrow not a few. So she went
and (did)
Matthew 17:27 Go cast an hook, and take up the fish … thou shalt find a piece of money (in his
mouth)
Luke 5:4-6 Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets
John 2:1-10 Fill the waterpots with water, and they filled them
John 11:39 Take (roll) away the stone
John 21:5-6 Cast the net on right side of the ship … they cast

C. Pray, believe God’s word and depend on Him to supply:

Matthew 7:7 Ask, and it shall be given; knock, and it shall be opened
Matthew 21:22 All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive
Hebrews 11:6 He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him (see also 2 Chronicles 26:5; Isaiah
45:11; Matthew 9:29)

D. Remember to thank Him for supplying:

Psalm 68:19 Blessed be the Lord, who daily loaded us with benefits
Psalm 116:12-14,17-18 What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits? I will offer to thee the
sacrifice of thanksgiving

5. REASONS WHY WE SOMETIMES LACK:

A. Because of sin:
Jeremiah 5:25 Your sins have withholden good things from you (see also Psalm 81:15-16; James4:3)
B. Lack of faith or failure to ask the Lord:
James 4:2 Ye have not, because ye ask not
James 1:6-7 [Wavering and not asking in faith]

C. Laziness:
2 Thessalonians 3:10 If any would not work, neither should he eat
Proverbs 13:4 The soul of the sluggard disireth, and hath nothing
Proverbs 20:4 Sluggard will not plow … therefore shall have nothing
Proverbs 21:25 The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour (see also
Proverbs 23:21)

D. To keep us dependent upon God and His supply:

Deuteronomy 31:20 When they … have eaten and filled themselves, and waxen fat; they will turn to
other gods
86
Proverbs 30:8-9 Give me (not) riches … lest I be full and deny thee (see also 1 Timothy 6:10,17;
Revelation 3:17-19)

E. To show us that it’s time for change:

1 Kings 17:7-9 [When the brook dried, it was time for Elijah to move] (See also Genesis 26:1-3; Ruth
1:1-6; 2 Kings 8:1-2)

6. GOD LOVES YOU AND WANTS TO SUPPLY:

A. He knows what you need and is looking after you:
Matthew 6:8 Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him
Matthew 6:25,31-32 Take no thought of your life, what ye shall eat, drink … [God] knoweth that ye
need all these things

B. If God provides for the unbelievers …

(See also Matthew 5:45; Acts 14:15-17)
C. … If He even provides the need of animals:
(See Genesis 1:30; 6:14-22; Psalm 104:21,26-28; 147:8-9)
D. … Won’t He much more care for you:
(see also Matthew 6:26,30; Psalm 34:10; 145:15-16; 2 Corinthians 9:8)

7. WE SHOULD DO OUR PART:

A. Our responsibility to provide:

1 Timothy 5:8 If any provide not for … those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is
worse than an infidel
B. Working for our needs:
Acts 20:35 How that laboring ye ought to support the weak
Ephesians 4:28 Let him labour, working with his hands things which is good
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12Work with your own hands … that ye may lack nothing
2 Thessalonians 3:10-12Some work not at all … if any would not work, neither should he eat
Titus 3:14 Let ours learn to maintain good works (profess honest trades) for necessary
uses
(see also Genesis 41:39-44; Daniel 2:48-49; 6:1-3; 8:27)
C. God blesses diligent, hard work:
Genesis 31:38-40 [Jacob’s example of diligent shepherding]
Genesis 39:1-6 [God blessed Joseph’s hard work] (see also 39:20-23)
Proverbs 28:19 He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread, but he that followeth vain
persons … poverty
Matthew 25:14-30 [The reward of the diligent servants who increased their talents]

8. WHEN GOD USES OTHERS TO SUPPLY HIS WORKERS’ NEEDS:

A. Well-of supporters often helped God’s messangers:

Genesis 47:1-6 [Pharaoh gave the best land in Egypt, Goshen to Joseph’s Father and brothers]
1 Kings 18:3,13 [Governor Obadiah risked his life to save and feed 100 of the Lord’s prophets]
2 Kings 4:8-11 [Rich woman of Shunem supplied food and lodging for Elisha and his servants]
Nehemiah 2:7-8 [King Artaxerxes gave Nehemiah permission to take as much timber as he
needed from the king’s forest]

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Jeremiah 37:15-21 [King Zedekiah defied Jeremiah’s enemies and commanded Jeremiah to be given
bread continually]
Daniel 2:48-49 [King Nebuchadnezzar gives Daniel power and “many great gifts” and his friends
high positions]
Luke 8:1-3 [Joanna and other wealthy women helped support Jesus] (see also Romans 16:23;
Philemon 1:2,7,22)
B. Don’t abuse others’ generosity:
1 Corinthians 7:31 They that used this world, as not abusing it
C. God’s workers to be supported by those to whom they minister:
Matthew 10:9-10 Provide neither gold, nor silver in your purses … for the workman is worthy of
his meat
1 Corinthians 9:7-14 The Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should of the gospel
2 Kings 4:42 A man … brought (Elisha) bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves and corn [to
feed his 100 disciples]
Luke 22:35 When I sent you without purse … lacked ye anything? And they said “Nothing”
1 Timothy 5:18 Shalt not muzzle ox that treadeth the corn. The labourer is worthy of his hire
(see also Deuteronomy 25:4; Luke10:7) (see also Acts 28:7-10)
D. Staying as a guest at someone’s house:
Matthew 10:11 In whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who is worthy; and there
abide
Luke 10:7-8 In the same house remain, eating (what) they give
(see also 1 Kings 17:8-16,24; Acts 10:5-6; 16:14-15; 17:5,7; 18:2-4; Romans 16:23; Philemon 22)
E. But don’t overstay your welcome:
Proverbs 25:17 Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour’s house; least he be weary of thee; and
so hate thee

F. Accepting invitations to a meal:

Matthew 9:9-10[Jesus and his disciples ate with Matthew] (see also Luke 5:29)
Luke 7:36 One of the Pharisees desired that he would eat with him
Luke 19:1-6 [Jesus invited himself to eat at Zacchaeu’s house]
1 Corinthians 10:27 If any (unbeliever) bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is
set before you, eat

G. Refusing invitations to a meal:

1 Kings 13:7-9, 15-17 [Young prophet ordered by God to refuse invitations] (see also 13:18-24)
Proverbs 15:17 Better in a dinner of herbs where love is, than (steak) and hatred therewith
(See also Daniel 1:5,8,12-16)
Proverbs23:6-8 Eat not the bread of him that hath an evil eye

H. Share amongst yourselves what God has already given you:

Acts 2:44-45 (They) parted them to all men, as every man had need
Acts 4:32 They had all things common
Acts 4:35 Distribution was made unto every man according as he had need
Acts 11:29 Every man according to his ability [sent] relief
2 Corinthians 8:12-15 That … your abundance may be a supply for their want [lack] that there may be
equity … He that gathered much had nothing over; and he that gathered little
had no lack (see also Exodus 16:18)

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9. GIVING TO GOD’S WORK:

1 Samuel 25:2-8 [David sent men to ask Nabal, a great and rich –but wicked man, to donate food
to him and his men
1 Samuel 25:7-8 [David explained the good work his men have done]
1 Samuel 27:5,7 [David asked for a place to stay for sixteen months]
Mark 11:1-7 [Jesus’ disciples requested a donkey for him to ride]
Mark 14:12-16 [Jesus’ disciples asked for the use of an upper room, already furnished and
prepared]
Luke 5:1-3 [Jesus asked for the use of a boat to preach from]
John 4:6-7 [Jesus asked for a drink of water]

10. GOD PROMISES TO PROSPER OUR WORK AND BUSINESSES:

A. Financially:
Deuteronomy 28:1-13 [Mighty promises of prosperity to the faithful]
Psalm 112:1,3 Blessed is the man … that delighted greatly in His commandments … wealth
shall be in his house
Proverbs 10:22 Blessing of the Lord maketh rich, he addeth no sorrow

B. Other ways God prospers His people:

(see Genesis 39:2; Leviticus 26:3-13; Deuteronomy 29:9; 30:9; 2 Chronicles 26:5; Psalm107:35-38; 127:3-5; Isaiah 30:10; Ezekiel
34:26; Acts 14:17)

11. GOD SPPLIES OUR NEEDS, NOT ALWAYS OUR WANTS:

A. Be content and do not desire more than you need:
Luke 12:15 Beware of covetousness, for a man’s life consiseth not in abundance of things
which he possesseth
1 Timothy 6:6-8 Godliness with contentment is great gain … having food and raiment let us be
therewith content
Philippians 4:11 I have learned, in whatever state I am … to be content
Hebrews 13:5 Let your (life) be without covetousness; and be content with such things ye have
Psalm 37:16 A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked
Proverbs 15:16 Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble therwith
Proverbs 30:8 Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me
2 Corinthians 6:10 As poor … having nothing, and yet possessing all things
(see also Psalm 62:10; 119:36; Proverbs 17:1; 23:5)

B. Dangers of disobedient and murmuring:

Exodus 16:3 [Longing for fleshpots of Egypt, and complaining that God will let them die of
hunger
Numbers 21:5-6 [The people complained against the manna and were attacked be fiery serpents]
1 Samuel 15:3,9,22-23 [Saul disobeyed God’s oroder to utterly destroy, saving the best of the goods.
God rejected Saul as king
Psalm 73:3-20 [Warning not to envy the prosperity of worldly wicked
Psalm 78:15-21 [Israelites miraculously received water, then doubtingly murmured for meat.
God judged them
TRALS, TEMPTATIONS, AND TRIBULATIONS
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1. TRAILS AND TESTS ARE TO BE EXPECTED:
Psalm 34:19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous; but the Lord delivereth him out of him
all
Acts 14:22 We must through much tribulation enter the kingdom
1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation taken you but such as is common to man
1 Thessalonians 3:3 No man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are
appointed there unto
Hebrews 12:7 What son is he whom the Father chasteneth not?
1 Peter 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trail which is to try (test) you
1 Peter 4:17 Judgment must begin at the house of God … at us
1 Peter 5:9 Knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren

2. TRAILS OFTEN RESULT WHEN THINGS DON’T GO OUR WAY:

James 4:2 Ye lust, and have not … desire to have, and cannot obtain

A. Often God will grant your heart’s desire:

Psalm 37:4 Delight thyself in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart
Psalm 84:11 No good thing will he withhold from them (the upright)
Psalm 145:19 He will fulfill the desire of them that fear him
Proverbs 10:24 The desire of the righteous shall be granted

B. But oftentimes He withholds it because it’s not His time:

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 There is … a time to every purpose under the heaven (see also Psalm 37:34;
Ecclesiastes 5:5-6)

C. Or because it would choke out our fruitfulness:

Mark 4:7,19 The lust of other things entering in, choke the word, and it become unfruitful
(see also Matthew 13:22; Luke 8:14)

D. Or seriously stumble or offend others:

1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain [even] from all appearance of evil
Romans 14:14-16,21 Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died (see also 1 Corinthians 8:8-13)

E. Or bring reproach on the Lord’s work or ministry:

2 Corinthians 6:3 Giving no offence … that the Ministry be not blamed

F. Or because of unrepented sin in your heart:

Jeremiah 5:25 Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden
good things from you (see also Psalm 66:18; Isaiah 59:1-2)

G. Or because you’re asking with the wrong motives:

James 4:2-3 Ye ask and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your
lusts

H. It’s not always good to get the desire of your heart:

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Psalm 73:3,7,16-22 I was envious at … prosperity … they have more than heart could wish … then
understood I their end
1 Timothy 6:9-10 They that will (desire to) to be rich fall into temptation … and many hurtful lusts
… erred from the faith

I. You may miss something better God had planned for you:
Psalm 81:10-13,16 He would have fed them the finest of wheat … honey

J. Nonetheless, we have trails when we can’t have something:

1 Samuel 1;6-8,10 The Lord had shut up her womb … therefore she wept … heart grieved …
bitterness of soul
Proverbs 13:12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick (see also 2 Samuel 13:1-2)

K. Warnings against stubbornly insisting on getting your way:

Psalm 78:27-31 He gave them their own desire … their lust. But … the wrath of God came (see
also Psalm 81:12)
Psalm 106:14-15 He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul (see also Numbers
11:4-34;
1 Samuel 8:4-22; 12:1,13,16-19 re: asking for a king)

L. What you give up for the Lord, He will often return:

Matthew 19:29 Every one that hath forsaken … father, or mother, or wife, or children … shall
receive an hundred
Hebrews 6:15 After he patiently endured, he obtained the promise (see also Ecclesiastes 11:1;
Hebrews 10:36)

3. WHY THE LORD ALLOWS YOU TO HAVE TRAILS AND TESTS:

A. To draw you closer to Him:
Psalm 107:12-13 He brought down their heart with labour … then they cried unto the Lord in
their trouble
B. To see if you will remain true:
Exodus 20:20 God is come to prove (test) you
Deuteronomy 8:2 The Lord … [tested you] to know what was in thine heart, whether thou
wouldest keep his commandments
Deuteronomy 13:3-4 God … proveth you, to know whether ye love the Lord
Judges 2:21-22 [God kept adversaries in the land to] prove Israel, whether they keep the way of
the Lord, or not
Jeremiah 12:3 Thou knowest me … Thou hast … tried my heart
Jeremiah 17:10 I the Lord searchest the heart … to give every man according to his ways, and …
the fruit of his doings
John 6:5-6 This he said to prove (test) him, for he himself knew

C. To draw you closer to His word:

Psalm 94:12 Blessed is the man whom Thou chaseteneth, O Lord, and teachest him out of
Thy law
Psalm 119:71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn Thy statues
D. To prune away dead wood so you can be more fruitful:
John 15:2 Every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth (prunes), that it may bring forth
more fruit
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E. To teach you obedience:
Hebrews 5:8 Though he were a son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he
suffered
(see also Hebrews 2:10)
1 Peter 4:1-2 He that … suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin

F. To make you a better and more useful vessel:

Jeremiah 18:4 The vessel that he (the potter) made of clay was marred … so he made it again
another vessel
1 Corinthians 5:7 Purge out the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump
2 Timothy 2:21 [If purged] … he shall be a vessel … meet for the master’s use, and prepared
unto every work

G. To purify you as precious metal is refined:

Malachi 3:3 He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver
Zechariah 13:9 I will bring [them] through the fire, and refine them
Psalm 66:10 Thou, O God, hast …tried us, as silver is tried
Job 23:10 When he hath tried me, I shall come forth as a gold
Proverbs 17:3 The fining pot is for silver, and the furnance for gold: but … the Lord trieth the
hearts
Isaiah 48:10 I have refined thee … in the furnance of affliction
Daniel 11:35 [They] shall fall ,to try them … and to make them white
1 Peter 1:7 The trail of your faith (is) much more precious than gold … though it be tried
with fire
(see also Isaiah 1:25)

H. To prepare you for the future blessings and exalted ministers:

Deuteronomy 8:16 That he might humble theee … and prove thee. To do thee good at thy latter
end
Psalm 105:17-22 [Joseph imprisoned, abased and tested, then exalted]
Proverbs 18:12 Before honour is humility

I. To teach you patience :

Romans 5:3 Tribulations worketh (teaches us) patience
James 1:3-4 The trying of your patience worketh patience

J. To make you wiser through sorrow:

Ecclesiastes 7:3-4 Sorrow is better laughter: for by … sadness … the hear is made better

K. To teach you compassion toward others:

Hebrew 4:15 Be touched with the feeling of [others’] infirmities
2 Corinthians 1:4 That we may be able to comfort them … in troubles

4. TRAILS OVER SUFFERING PERSONAL LOSS:

A. Willingly and joyfully suffer loss of position:
Job 1:21 The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord
Acts 20:23-24 Bonds and afflictions … none of these things move me, neither count I [even] my
life dear

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Philippians 3:8 I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win
Christ
Hebrews 10:34 Ye … took joyfully the spoiling of goods

B. Lay aside weights to run the race:

Hebrews 12:1 Let us lay aside every weight … and let us run the race
1 Corinthians 9:24 So run, that ye may obtain (the prize)
Philippians 3:13-14 Forgetting those things which are behind … I press toward the mark of the
prize of the high calling

C. The futility of trying to hang onto things:

Proverbs 23:5 Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? For riches certainly … fly away
Luke 12:15 A man’s life consiseth not in … things he possesseth (see also Ecclesiastes 5:13-13; 1
Timothy 6:7)

D. Paul’s trails in missing loved ones:

(see also Philippians 1:7-8; 1 Thessalonians 2:17-18; 1 Thessalonians 3:10; 2 Timothy 1:3-4)

E. The Lord wants you to love Him first of all:

Psalm 73:25 Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I desire
beside thee
Psalm 142:4-5 Refuge failed me; no man cared … thou art my refuge and my portion in the
land of the living
Isaiah 54:1,5-6 Sing … for thy maker is thine husband … the Lord hath called thee as a woman
forsaken
John 16:32 Ye … shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me

5. SOME BIBLE EXAMPLES OF TRAILS AND TESTS:

Genesis 26:34-35 [Esau disobeyed and married pagans] which were a grief of mind to Isaac and
Rebekah
(see also Genesis 27:46; 28:8)
Exodus 4:10-13 [Moses felt incapable to speak to the Hebrew nation]
Numbers 11:10-12,14 [Moses said:] I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy
for me
Judges 6:14-15 [Gideon felt incapable to be the deliverer of Israel]
Ruth 1:12-13 [Noami, unable to help her daughters-in-law, said:] it grieveth me much for your
sakes
1 Samuel 30:1-6 [David’s men grieved at the loss of wives and families]
1 Kings 19:1-4,10 [Elijah, persecuted and feeling all alone, prayed to die]
Psalm 6:6-8 [David’s tears and grieve because his enemies triumphed]
Psalm 38:4-9 [David’s trails about unhealed affliction]
Psalm 102:1-8 [David’s deep trail because of his enemies’ reproach (see also Psalm 69:16-20)
Jeremiah 15:10 [Jeremiah’s depths of despair over being rejected, despised, and mocked.
(see also Jeremiah 20:7-10,14,18)
Jonah 3:4-5,10; 4:1-9 [When things didn’t work as he’d hoped, Jonah was so angry and displeased, he
wished to die]
Luke 10:40 [Martha, working alone, felt unfairly over-burdened]
John 21:17 Peter grieved [because Jesus seemed to be brining his love and loyalty into
question]
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2 Corinthians 1:8 [Paul’s] trouble … we were pressed above strength, so we despised even of life
(see also 2 Corinthians 4:8; 7:5)
Isaiah 53:3-9 [Jesus’ sorrows and trails]

6. WHY IT’S WORTH IT TO ENDURE TESTS AND TEMPTATIONS:

A. For the sake of lost souls:
2 Timothy 2:10 I endure all things for the elect’s sake, that they may also obtain … salvation
Isaiah 53:1012 [God “put Jesus to grief” to save our souls]

B. Because you’ll be spiritually stronger as a result:

2 Corinthians 4:16 We faint not; (for) though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is
renewed day by day
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 My (Jesus’) strength is made perfect in weakness … that the power of Christ may
rest upon me (Paul)

C. Because God will reward you after testing you:

Psalm 66:12 Thou hast caused [us to go] through fire and water: but thou broughtest us out
into a wealthy place
Hebrews 12:11 No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless
afterward … [good] fruit
James 5:11 Endure. Ye have heard of … Job, and have seen the end … the Lord is of tender
mercy
(see also Psalm 118:5; Lamentations 3:32)

D. Heavenly rewards:
Romans 8:28 The suffering of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory
which shall be … in us
2 Corinthians 4:17 Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us [an] eternal
weight of glory
James 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation … he shall receive the crown of life
1 Peter 4:13 Ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings … when his glory shall be revealed, ye may
glad also
(see also 1 John 2:17; Revelation 21:7)

BE THANKFUL FOR YOUR TRAILS AND TEMPTATIONS:

A. God uses your trails and temptations for good:
Romans 8:28 All things work together for good to … the called
James 1:2-4 Count it joy when ye fall into diverse temptations
1 Peter 1:6 Rejoice, though now for a season ye are in heaviness

B. Chastenings prove God loves you and that you’re His child:
Deuteronomy 8:5 As man chasteneth his son, so the Lord chaseneth
Proverbs 3:11-12 My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord
Hebrews 12:5-12 Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth … every son
Revelation 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten (see also Job 5:17; Psalm 11:5; 1 Corinthians
11:32)

C. Remember that sorrow will give way to joy:

Psalm 30:5 Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning
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Matthew 5:4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted
1 Peter 5:10 God … after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish,
strengthen, settle you

8. HELPING OTHERS WHO ARE GOING THROUGH TRAILS:

A. How to help them:
Job 6:14 To him that is afflicted pity should be showed
Job 19:21 Have pity upon me … the hand of God hath touched me
Romans 15:1-2 We … ought to bear the infirmities of the weak
1 Corinthians 12:25-26 Whether one member suffer, all … suffer with it
Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens
Hebrews 13:3 Remember them … which suffer, as being yourselves also in the body

B. Encourage and strengthen them:

Job 16:4-5 I would strengthen you with my mouth … assuage grief
Isaiah 50:4 Speak a word in session to him that is weary
Proverbs 12:25 Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad

C. Admonish them with hearty counsel:

Proverbs 27:9 Ointment and perfume rejoice the heart: so doth sweetness of a man’s friend by
hearty counsel
Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you … teaching and admonishing one another …
singing

9. TEMPTATIONS: WHERE THEY COME FROM:

A. From our own lust:
James 1:12-14 Every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of own lust, and enticed
I John 2:15-16 The lust of the flesh and … eyes … is of the world

B. They are also instigated by the devil:

Genesis 3:1-6,13 [Eve:] The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat
1 Chronicles 21:1,7-8 Satan … provoked David to [sin and do foolishly]
Matthew 4:1-7 [Jesus was tempted of the devil, “the tempter”]
Luke 22:31 Simon, Satan hath desired to … sift you as wheat (see also 1 Thessalonians 3:5; 2
Corinthians 11:3)

10. AVOIDING TEMPTATIONS :

Matthew 6:13 [Pray:] lead us not into temptation

A. Avoid the pathway to temptation:

Proverbs 4:14 Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not
Proverbs 4:15 Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away
Matthew 7:13-14 Enter ye in at the strait (narrow) gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way
… to destruction
2 Timothy 2:22 Flee also youthful lusts

B. Beware of those who would entice you:

Psalm 1:1-2 (Walk) not in the council of the ungodly
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Proverbs 1:10 If sinners entice thee, consent thou not
Proverbs 16:29 A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into a way that is not
good
2 Peter 3:17 Beware lest ye also being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your
steadfastness
(see also Proverbs 22:24-25; 2 Peter 2:18-19)

C. Know your weaknesses, and be on guard against them:

Romans 13:14 Make not provision (forethought, plans) for the flesh, to fulfil the lust thereof
Galatians 6:1 Considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted

D. Warning re: evil, beguiling influences:

Deuteronomy 7:25-26 [Do not] bring an abomination into thine house, lest thou be a cursed thing like
it: utterly detest it
Psalm 101:3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes
Psalm 106:35-36 They were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works. Their idols …
were a snare unto them
2 Corinthians 11:3 Lest … as the serpent beguiled Eve though his subtlety, so your mind should be
corrupted
2 Peter 2:7-8 Lot … in seeing and hearing [the wickedness of Sodom], vexed (tormented) his
righteous soul … with their unlawful deeds

11. HOW TO RESIST AND OVERCOME TEMPTATION:

A. Keep your eyes on Jesus:
Hebrews 11:27 He (Moses) endured, as seeing him who is invisible
Hebrews 12:2-3 Looking unto Jesus … consider him … lest ye … faint (See also Proverbs 4:25; Colossians
3:2-3)

B. Pray and ask the Lord to help you:

Psalm 17:5 Hold up my going in thy paths … that my footsteps slip not

Psalm 56:13 Thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from
falling
Matthew 6:13 Lead us not into temptation … deliver us from evil
Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation (See also Luke 21:36)
Matthew 18:19-20 [Have others pray with you in special times of temptations (See also James 5:16)

C. Resist the devil:

Ephesians 4:27 Neitherr give place to the devil
James 4:7 Resist the devil, and he will flee from you

D. Cling to the word:

Psalm 119:80 Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed
John 15:3 Now ye are clean through the word
2 Peter 1:4 Precious promises: that by these ye might [escape] the corruption that is in the
world through the lust
Revelation 3:10 Because thou hast kept the word … I will keep thee

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E. Be willing to give up your own desires out of love for Jesus:

Galatians 5:16 Walk in the spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh
Galatians 5:24 They that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections of lust
Ephesians 4:20-23 Put off … the old man … the deceitful lusts (See also Romans 6:16; Philippians 3:8)

F. Exercise willpower and determine not to yield to temptations:

Romans 6:13 Neither yield ye your members … unto sin
1 Corinthians 9:27 I keep under my body, and bring into subjection
1 Corinthians 16:13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you (behave) like men, be strong
2 Timothy 2:3 Endure hardness, as good soldiers of Jesus Christ
2 Timothy 2:22 Flee youthful lusts: but follow righteousness
1 Peter 1:14 As obedient children, not (conforming) to former lusts
1 Peter 2:11 Abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul (see also 1 Corinthians 10:5-6)

G. Fear the Lord and be afraid to disobey Him:

Proverbs 14:27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death
Proverbs 16:6 By the fear of the Lord men depart from evil
Proverbs 23:17 Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the Lord all the day
long
1 Samuel 12:24 Fear the Lord, and serve him in truth with all your heart

H. Be serious and sober about serving the Lord:

Titus 2:12 Denying … worldly lusts, we should live soberly … in this present world
1 Thessalonians 5:8 Let us … be sober, putting on the [armour of God]
1 Peter 1:13 Gird up … your mind, be sober, and hope to the end
1 Peter 4:7 The end … is at hand: be ye therefore sober
1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil … walketh about,
seeking whom he may devour

I. Keep your heart and mind to the final goal:

Hebrews 11:25-26 Choosing rather to suffer affliction … than to enjoy the pleasure of sin … for he
had respect to the reward
Hebrews 12:2 (Jesus) for the joy set before him, endured the cross

12. THE LORD WILL DELIVER YOU:

A. God’s promises to help you:
2 Peter 2:9 Lord knoweth how to deliver godly out of temptations
1 Corinthians 10:13 God … will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will … also
make a way to escape
1 Corinthians 15:57 Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ
Hebrews 2:18 He is able to succor (help) them that are tempted

B. Jesus has compassion on us, knowing what it’s like:

Hebrews 4:15 (Jesus) was in all points like as we are
C. He is with you when you go through temptations:
Isaiah 43:1 Fear not: I have called thee by name; thou art mine
Isaiah 43:2 When thou passeth through waters, I will be with thee

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1 Peter 4:19 Let them that suffer … commit the keeping of their souls to him … as unto a
faithful creator
(See also Deuteronomy 4:30-31)

13. HOW RIGHTEOUS MEN FELL THROUGH TEMPTATIONS:

A. Example of Balaam the prophet:
(compare Numbers 22:1-21; 24:2, 10-11, 15,19; 25:1-3; 31:16; Joshua 13:22; 2 Peter 2:15; Jude 11; Revelation 2:14)

B. The fall of King Solomon:

2 Samuel 12:24 The Lord loved him
Nehemiah 13:26 Solomon … was beloved of his God … nevertheless even him did outlandish
women cause to sin
1 Kings 11:1-8 King Solomon loved many strange women … his wives turned his heart after
other gods
1 Kings 11:9-11 The Lord was angry with Solomon (and said), I will rend the kingdom from
thee, and give it to thy servant

C. Other examples of people falling through temptations:

Genesis 3;1-6 (Eve) saw the tree was good for food … pleasant to the eyes, and to be desired
to make one wise … did eat
Genesis 25:29-34 [Esau sold his birthright to Jacob for some pottage]
Joshua 7:1, 20-21 (Achan coveted) a godly Babylonish garment … silver and a wedge of gold
2 Kings 5:20-27 [Gehazi coveted Nnamaan’s goods; was struck leprous

14. EXAMPLES OF RESISTING TEMPTATION:

Genesis 14:21-23 [Abraham refused rewards from King of Sodom]
2 Kings 5:15-16 [Nnamaan urged Elisha to take gifts; Elisha refused]
Job 2:9-10 [Job refused to sin with his lips and curse God]
Jeremiah 35:5-6 [The Rechabites obediently refused to drink wine]
Daniel 1:8 [Daniel refused to defile himself eating unclean food]
Acts 8:18-20 [Peter refused Simon the sorcerer’s money]

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 SUFFERING
1. WHO CAUSES SUFFERING? – GOD OR THE DEVIL?

A. The Devil causes much of humanity’s suffering:

1 Peter 5:8-9 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion,
walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the
faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that
are in the world
2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 Him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and
lying wonders … that they all might be damned
Revelation 12:12 Woe to the inhabiters of the earth of the sea! For the devil is come down unto
you, having great wrath (see also Acts 10:38; Matthew 15:22; Luke 8:29; 2 Timothy 2:26)

B. But it is God who allows the Devil to bring suffering:

Job 1:8-19 [God allowed Satan to bring Job to ruin with fire, raiding bandits and a violent
storm]
Job 2:3-7 [God allowed the Devil to afflict Job with boils] (see also 1 Corinthians 5:5; 1 Timothy
1:20)

C. God is ultimately responsible for allowing suffering:

Exodus 4:11 Who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or blind? Have not i?
1 Samuel 2:6-7 The Lord killeth, and maketh alive, maketh poor … rich
Isaiah 45:7 I make peace, and creat evil; I the Lord do all these
Amos 3:6 Shall there be evil in a city, and the Lord hath not done it?
(see also Deuteronomy 32:39; 2 Chronicles 15:2,5-6; Job 12:14-25; Psalm 66:10-12; Micah 1:12)

2. WHY DOES GOD ALLOW THE RIGHTEOUS TO SUFFER?

A. He has a loving reason for everything he does:
Romans 8:28 All things work together for good to … the called
Genesis 45:4-8 Be not grieved … that ye sold me [as a slave]: for God did send me before you
to preserve life
Genesis 50:20 Ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good
Psalm 119:71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes
Jeremiah 37:15-16; [Jeremiah spent a long time in prison, but was safe there when Jerusalem was
destroyed]
38:28 (See also Jeremiah 39:11-14)
Jonah 2:1-7 [Jonah suffered in the fish’s belly but it saved him from drowning and too him to
land]
(See also Jonah 1:15,17; 2:10)

B. Suffering is often God’s loving chastisement:

Proverbs 3:11-12 Whom the Lord loveth he correcteth
Hebrews 12:5-12 Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth
Revelation 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten

C. God’s chastisements are righteous:

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Nehemiah 9:33 Thou art just in all that is brought upon us
Psalm 119:75 I know that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted
me
Psalm 19:9 The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous
Proverbs 26:2 The cause causeless shall not come
Jeremiah 17:10 I the Lord search the heart … to give every man … according to the fruit of his
doings
(see also Ezekiel 14:22-23; Hebrews 12:11)

D. Our suffering is less than we deserve:

Ezra 9:13 God hast punished us less than our iniquities deserve
Psalm 78:38-39 Full of compassion … many a time turned he his anger
Psalm 103:10,14 He hath not dealt with us after our sins

E. Continue to trust him, even though you don’t understand:

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord … lean not unto thine own understanding
Isaiah 55:8-9 Neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord

3. SOME SPECIFIC REASONS THAT GOD ALLOWS SUFFERING:

A. Suffering has been a fact of life since the fall of man:
Genesis 3:16-19 [Suffering brought into the world by the fall of man]
Job 4:8 Man is born into trouble, as the sparks fly upward (See also Job 14:1; Psalm 90:10)

B. We often bring on suffering by sin:

Genesis 42:21 We are guilty … therefore is distress come upon us
Job 4:8 They that plow iniquity and sow wickedness reap the same
Psalm 31:9-10 I am in trouble … grief … because of mine iniquity
Psalm 38:1-8 There is no soundness in my flesh … because of my sin
Psalm 107:17 Fools … because of their iniquities, are afflicted
Isaiah 66:4 [Ignoring God and doing evil brings on mental anguish, fear and delusion]
Jeremiah 5:25 Your sins have withholden good things from you (see also Jeremiah 30:15;
Lamentations 1:20)

C. Because we’re disbelieving or disregarding God’s word:

Deuteronomy 11:28 A curse, if ye will not obey the commandments
Psalm 78:32-33 They believed not … their years he consumed in trouble
Psalm 89:30-32 If (they) forsake my law … visit transgression with rod (see also Psalm 107:11-12)

4. SUFFERING BECAUSE OF OBEDIENCE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS:

A. Suffering and privations while serving God:

Acts 20:19s Serving the Lord with many tears and temptations
1 Corinthians 4:11 We hunger, thirst, are naked, buffered
2 Corinthians 1:8 [Paul’s] trouble … pressed out of measure, above strength, despaired even of
life
2 Corinthians 11:23-30 [Paul’s many suffering and troubles]
Philippians 2:27,30 Sick nigh unto death, to supply your lack of service (See also 2 Corinthians 6:4-10)
B. Suffering caused by persecution:

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Philippians 1:29 For unto you it is given … not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his
sake
2 Timothy 3:12 All that live godly in Jesus shall suffer persecution
2 Timothy 1:8 Be not ashamed, but partaker of afflictions of gospel
Hebrews 11:25 Choosing to suffer affliction with the people of God
Hebrews 11:35-38 [Saints tortured, cruelly mocked, scourged, imprisoned, slain, destitute,
afflicted, tormented]
(See also Romans 8:35-37; 1 Peter 2:19-21; 3:16-17; Revelation 2:10 )

5. THE BENEFITS AND GOOD FRUITS OF SUFFERING:

A. Suffering causes us to seek His word:

Deuteronomy 8:2-3 That he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread alone, but by
(the) word
Psalm 94:12 Blessed is the man whom thou chastenest, O Lord, and teachest him out of thy
law
Psalm 119:71 I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes

B. Suffering refines and purifies:

Job 23:10 When he hath tired me, I shall come forth as gold
Psalm 66:10 Thou, O God, hast proved us … tried us, as silver
Isaiah 48:10 I have refined thee … in the furnance of affliction
Zechariah 13:9 And I will … refine them as silver is refined
Hebrews 12:9-11 Chastened … that we be partakers of his holiness (See also proverbs 17:3; Isaiah 1:25)

C. It teaches obedience:

Psalm 119:67 Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word
Hebrews 5:8 Yet learned he obedience by things which he suffered (See also 2 Corinthians 7:10-11)
D. It causes us to bring forth more good fruit:
John 15:2 He (prunes) it, that it may bring forth more fruit

E. It humbles:
Deuteronomy 8:2,16 The Lord led thee in the wilderness, to humble thee
2 Chronicles 33:12 When he was in affliction, he humbled himself greatly
Lamentation 3:1,17-20 Remembering mine affliction … my soul … is humbled

F. It teaches patience:
Romans 5:3 Tribulation worketh patience
G. It makes us wiser:
Ecclesiastes 7:2-3 Sorrow is better … the living will lay it to heart

H. It gives us compassion and mercy on others:

2 Corinthians 1:4 That we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort
wherewith we are comforted
Hebrews 2:17 [As with Jesus, he teaches you to be merciful]
Hebrews 2:18 He himself hath suffered … he is able to succor them

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Hebrews 4:15 Be touched with the feeling of [others’] infiirmites
I. It draws us close to and makes us appreciate loves ones:
2 Corinthians 7:4-7 We were troubled on every side … nevertheless, God … comforted us by the
coming of Titus

6. REWARDS IN HEAVEN FOR EARLHLY SUFFERING:

Luke 16:19-25 [Lazarus the beggar rewarded and comforted]
Romans 8:18 Sufferings of present time not worthy to be compared
2 Corinthians 1:7 As ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye also be of the consolation
2 Corinthians 4:17 Our light affliction … worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of
glory
2 Timothy 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him
Revelation 21:4 Shall be no more death … sorrow … crying … pain

7. REMEMBER, JESUS ALSO SUFFERED:

Hebrews 4:15 [He] was in all points tempted (tested) like as we are
Hebrews 12:3 Consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners … lest ye be wearied
and faint in minds

A. The reason that Jesus suffered:

Isaiah 53:3 He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows
Isaiah 35:4-5 He was wounded for our transgressions … and with his stripes we are healed
(See also 1 Peter 2:24)
Hebrews 2:9-10 Captain of their salvation perfect through suffering
1 Peter 2:21 Christ suffered for us, leaving us an example
1 Peter 4:1 As Christ suffered for us, arm yourselves

8. THE RIGHT ATTIUDE TOWARS SUFFERINGS:

Job 13:15 Though he slay, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain my ways before him
Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but for loss for the excellency of the
knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all
things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

A. Endure suffering patiently:

Jeremiah 10:19 Truly this is a grief, and I must bear it
Lamentations 3:24-26 Lord is my portion … hope and quietly wait in him
Romans 12:12 Rejoicing in hope; patient and tribulation
2 Timothy 4:5 Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions
Hebrews 12:7 If ye endure … God dealeth with you as with sons
1 Peter 4:19 Let them that suffer … commit to the keeping of their souls to him (God) in well
doing

B. Pray for strength to endure suffering:

Luke 81:1 Men ought always to pray, and not to faint
James 5:13 Is any among you afflicted? Let him pray

C. We should expect afflictions and trails:

Psalm 34:19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous
Acts 14:22 Must through much tribulation enter the kingdom
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1 Thessalonians 3:3-4 No man should be moved by these afflictions: for … we are appointed thereunto
1 Peter 4:12 Think it not strange concerning the fiery trail (See also 1 Corinthians 10:13; 1 Peter 5:9)

D. Stand strong, endure hardness:

Acts 20:23-24 None of these things move me … that I might finish
2 Timothy 2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier
Hebrews 11:25-27 Choosing rather to suffer affliction … he endured
James 5:10-11 Take the prophets, for an example of suffering affliction … we count them happy
which endure

E. Be happy despite suffering:

John 16:33 Ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer
Romans 5:3 We glory in tribulations … worketh patience
2 Corinthians 7:4 I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulations
1 Peter 4:13,16 Rejoice … ye are partakers of Christ’s suffering

F. Don’t murmur against God:

Job 1:20-22 Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly (See also 2:9-10)
Psalm 17:3 I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God

G. Remain faithful:
Psalm 119:143 Trouble and anguish … yet thy commandments my delights

9. WRONG ATTITUDES TOWARD SUFFERING:

Exodus 6:9s [Despair:] They (Israelites) hearkened not unto Moses for anguish of spirit, and
for cruel bondage
Ruth 1:20-21 [Complaint:] for Almighty hath dealth very bitterly with me
Job 2:7-9 [Bitterness:] Then said (Job’s wife), Curse God, and die
Proverbs 24:10 [Giving up:] If thou faint in the day of advesity
Jeremiah 15:18 [Questioning:] Wilt thou be unto me a liar? (See also Proverbs 18:14; Lamentations 3:39)

10. GOD COMFORTS AND STRENGTHENS US WHEN WE SUFFER:

Exodus 3:7 I have seen the affliction of my people … heard their cry … I know their sorrows
Matthew 5:4 Blessed are they that mourn … they shall be comforted
John 14:18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you
Romans 8:26 The spirit helpeth out infirmities
1 Peter 5:10 But God … after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish,
strengthen, settle you
(See also Psalm 23:4; 37:24; 145:14

11. DELIVERANCE FROM SUFFERING:

A. The Lord promises to deliver us from our suffering:
Psalm 30:5 Weeping may endure for a night, joy cometh in the morning
Psalm 34:19s Many are the affliction … but the Lord delivereth
Psalm 103:9-14s He will not always chide … he knoweth our frame
Lamentations 3:31-31 Lord will cast off for ever: though he cause grief
Isaiah 54:7-8 For a small moment have I forsaken thee: but … mercy
(See also Exodus 3:7,9-10; Deuteronomy 26:6-8; Psalm 66:11-12; 94:12-14; 107:11-14; 118:17-18)
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B. Pray for deliverance:
Psalm 34:6 Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles
Psalm 34:17 The righteous cry, and the Lord … delivereth them out
Psalm 50:15 Call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee
(See also specific examples in Ezra 9:5-15; Isaiah 38:1-3)
C. God’s conditions:
2 Chronicles 6:27-30 [Release from suffering if men repent and seek the Lord]
2 Chronicles 7:13-14 If my people … shall humble themselves, and pray, and turn from their evil
ways; I will hear … forgive … heal
Job 33:27-29 If any say, “I have sinned” … He will deliver his soul
Job 36:8-11 If they obey and serve him, they shall (have) prosperity
Jonah 2:1-10s [Jonah praised God in his trouble, and was delivered]

12. OUR DUTY TOWARD THE SUFFERING AND AFFLICTED:

Job 6:14 To him that is afflicted pity should be showed
Job 16:5 I would strengthen you … assuage your grief
Isaiah 50:4 Speak a word in season to him that is weary
Luke 10:30-37 [The good Samaritan] Go, and do thou likewise
Romans 12:15 Weep with them that men
1 Corinthians 12:25-26 Whether one member suffer, all … suffer with it
Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens
Hebrews 13:3 Remember them which suffer adversity
James 1:27 Visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction (See also Job 19:21; Matthew 25:34-
45; 1 Timothy 5:10)

13. THE SUFFERING OF THE WICKED:

Deuteronomy 28:20 The Lord shall send upon thee cursing … because of the wickedness of thy
doings
Deuteronomy 28:15-67 If thou wilt not hearken … these curses shall come …
Job 15:20 The wicked man travaileth with pain all his days
Psalm 32:10 Many sorrows shall be to the wicked
Isaiah 42:24-25 Neither were they obedient unto his law. Therefore he hath poured upon him
the fury of his anger
Isaiah 57:20-21 Wicked are like troubled sea … no peace to the wicked
Hebrews 2:15s Who through fear of death were … subject to bondage
1 John 4:18 Fear hath torment (See also Job 20:all; Ecclesiastes 2:22-23; Lamentation 3:42-47)

14. MUCH OF THE WORLD’S SUFFERING IS OFTEN SELF INFLICTED:

A. Drug abuse, alcoholism. e.t.c
1 Corinthians 3:17 If any man defile (his body), him shall God destroy
Proverbs 2329-35 [Alcoholism brings on woe, sorrow, wounds] (See also Proverbs 23:21; 31:4-5; Isaiah
5:11; 28:7)
B. Overeating:
Numbers 11:19-20, [Hebrews gluttonously overate quails and as a result “the fattest of them” died]
31-34 (See also Psalm 78:26-31)
Philippians 3:19s Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly (See also proverbs 23:1-3,21)
C. Overdoing physically gets body’s resistance down:
Ecclesiastes 12:12s Much study is a weariness of the flesh
Philippians 2:2, 30 He was (sick) nigh unto death not regarding his life
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D. Pollution by factories, pesticides, chemicals, e.t.c:
Isaiah 24:5 The earth is defiled under the inhabitants thereof
Jeremiah 2:7 Ye defiled my land, and made (it) an abomination
Amos 7:17 Thou shalt die in a polluted land
Micah 2:10 Because it is polluted, it shall destroy you
Zephaniah 3:1 Woe to her that is filthy and polluted, to the oppressing city
Romans 1:30,32 Inventors of evil things … worthy of death
Revelation 11:18 [God will] destroy them which destroy the earth
(See also Genesis 4:8, 16-17; Isaiah 5:8; 14:21 re: unnatural cities and industrialization

E. Greed and oppression cause wars, suffering, and misery:

Joshua 7:1-26 [Achan’s covetousness caused many Israelites to die]
Proverbs 15:27 He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house
Nahum 3:1 Woe to the bloody city! It is full of lies and robbery
1 Timothy 6:9-10 They that will be rich … drown in destruction … sorrows
James 4:1-2 From whence come wars? … even of your lusts … ye kill
James 5:1-6 Rich men … ye have condemned and killed the just (See also Psalm 73:3-20; Micah
6:12-15)

15. SUFFERING CAN BRING SOME TO GOD:

Deuteronomy 31:7 Many evils and troubles shall befall them [to make them realize they’ve
forsaken God]
2 Chronicles 15:4 When they in their trouble … sought him: and returned
2 Chronicles 33:9-13 [Manasseh’s suffering in prison turned him to God]
Job 34:31-32 I have borne chastisement, I will not offend any more
Psalm 78:34 When he slew them, then they sought him: and returned
Isaiah 26:16 Poured out prayer when thy chastening was upon them
Jeremiah 2:27 They have turned their back … but in the time of trouble
Daniel 4:30-37 [King Nebuchadnezzar’s abasement and salvation]
Luke 15:16-20 [Suffering caused the prodigal son to repent]
Revelation 11:13 Earthquake (killed) 7,000 … remnant gave glory to God (See also Hosea 2:6-7)

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 COMFORT
1. THE LORD WILL HELP AND COMFORT YOU:

A. His promises to comfort:

Psalm 71:21 Thou shalt… comfort me on every side
Psalm 86:17 Thou, lord, hast helped n me, and comforted me
Psalm 91:15 I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver
Psalm 116:6 I was brought low and he helped me
Psalm 138:7 ThoughI walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me
Isaiah 42:6 I the lord… will hold thine hand, and will keep thee
Isaiah 43:2 When thou passest through waters, I will be with thee
Isaiah 49:13 Thelord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his
afflicted
Isaiah 51:12-13 I, even I, am he that comforted you
Isaiah 66:13 As one his mother comforted, so I will comfort you
John 14:18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you
John 14:1-3 Let not your heart be trouble: believe… in me
2 Corinthians 1:3 Blessed be God… the father of mercies, and the God of all comfort
2 Corinthians 7:6 God … comforteth those that are cast down
2 Thessalonians2:16-17 Our Lord Jesus Christ … which hath loved us, and given us everlasting
Consolation … comfort your hearts (see also psalm 103:6; Philippians
2:1-2.)

B. The Lord is always with you to comfort you:

Psalm 121:4 He that keepeth [thee]shall neither slumber nor sleep
2corinthians 1:4 (He) comforted us in all our tribulation

C. The holy spirit, the “Comforter, “will comfort you:

John 14:26 The comforter … is the Holy Ghost
John 15:26 The comforter … whom I will send unto you from (God)
John 14:16-17 (God) shall give you a comforter that he may abide with you forever;
even the spirit … shall be in you
Acts 9:31 Then had the churches rest … in the comfort of the Holy Ghost
2. HOW TO RECEIVE GOD’S COMFORT:
A. Pray and ask for his help:
2 chronicles 15:4 When the in their trouble … sought (God
Psalm 34:17 The righteous cry and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all
their troubles
Psalm 86:7 In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me
Psalm 119:76 Let, I pray, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort
Psalm 145:18-19 The Lord is nigh unto them that call upon him
Philippians 4:6-7 By prayer … let your request be known unto God. And the peace of God
… shall keep your hearts
Hebrews 4:16 come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and
find grace to help in time of need

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D. example of David’s prayers seeking comfort:
(See psalm 31:9-12; 38:9; 51:all; 69:1-2; 102:1-7.)

E. Read and Meditate on God’s Word:

Psalm 119:50 This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me
Romans 15:4 (word) written … that we through patience and comfort of the
Scriptures might have hope
F. Stay Close to Him:
John 8:29 The father had not left me alone; for I do always those things that
please him
Psalm 103:17-18 The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that
fear him

G. Continue trusting and have patience:

Genesis 28:15 [God tells Jacob:] I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I
have spoken to thee of
Psalm 42:3-11 Why art thou cast down, o my soul? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet
praise him
Psalm 119:81-83 I Hope in thy word. When will thou comfort me? For I am become like a
bottle in the smoke
Hebrews 10:35-36 Cast not away … your confidence … ye have need of patience, that, after
… ye might receive the promise

H. Remember God’s past miracles and mercies:

Psalm 777:1-12 My spirit was overwhelm … this is my infirmity: but I will remember thy
works of the Lord
Psalm 119:52 I remembered thy judgment of old, o Lord; and have comforted my self

I. Encourage and remind yourself of God’s faithfulness:

1 Samuel 30:6 David was greatly distressed … but David encourage himself in the Lord
his God
J. Remember, God will never forsake you:
Isaiah 49:14-16 [They] said, the lord hath forsaken me, and forgotten me. Yet will I not
forget thee
Psalm 31:22 I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes:
[But] thou heardest …when I cried unto thee
Psalm 9:9-10 they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou hast not
forsaken them that seek thee
Mathew 28:20 I am with you always, even unto the end of the world
2 timothy 2:13 [Even]if we believe not, yet he abideth faithful
Hebrews 13:5 I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee
(see also Isaiah 54:10.)

K. Trust and commit yourself into His hands:

Romans 8:28 All things work …for good to them that love God
1 peter 4:19 Let them that suffer … commit the keeping of their souls to him … as
unto a faithful creator

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L. He will keep you:
2 Timothy 1:12 (I) am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed
Unto him
Psalm 23:4 Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me
Psalm 37:5 Commit thy way unto the lord; trust also in him
Psalm 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee
Psalm 138:8 The lord we perfect that which concerneth me
Philippians 1:6 He which has begun a good work in you will perform (complete) it until
The day of Jesus Christ
1 Thessalonians 5:2 Faithful is he that calleth you, who … will do it
1 peter 5:7 casting all your care to him; for He careth for you

3. God loves you and care for you:

A. He knows every tear you’ve shed:
2 kings 20:5 I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears
Psalm 56:8 Put my tears in thy bottle: are they not in thy book?
(See also mark 9:24.)

B. He knows exactly what you’ve experiencing:

Exodus 3:7 I have seen affliction of my people … and have heard their cry … I know
Their sorrows
Psalm 103:13-14 The lord pitieth [us] for he knoweth our frame
Isaiah 53:4 He hath borne our grief’s, and carried our sorrows
Isaiah 63:9 In all their affliction he was afflicted
Hebrews 4:15 Touched with the feeling of our infirmities [He] was in all point tempted
like as we are

C. Though He chastises us, he loves and comforts:

Psalm 30:5 His anger endureth but a moment … weeping may endure for a night,
but joy cometh in the morning
Psalm 71:20 Thou, which hast showed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken
(make alive) me again
Psalm 103:9 He will not always chide; neither … keep his anger forever
Isaiah 12:1 Though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou
comfortedst me
Lamentation 3:31-33 Though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion
(See also Hosea 6:1-3.)

4. GOD’S LOVING HAND UPHOLD YOU:

A. his hands are always there, supporting you:

Deuteronomy 33:27 Underneath are the everlasting arms
Psalm 145:14 The lord upholdeth the righteous
Psalm 37:24 Though fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the lord upholdeth
him with his hand
Isaiah 41:10 I am with thee: be not dismayed’ I will uphold thee with (my) right hand
Isaiah 63:9 in his love and pity he … bare them, and carried
B. …Even in distant lands and lonesome situations:

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Psalm 139:8 If I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there
Psalm 139:9-12 If I … dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall thy hand
… hold me
Mathew 28:20 I am with you always, even unto the end of the world
5. IF YOU FEEL YOU’RE in the dark, TRUST IN THE GOD FOR LIGHT:
Isaiah 50:10 Who is among you … that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? Let
him trust in the Lord
Isaiah 42:16 I will make darkness before light before them, and … not forsake them
Psalm 18:28 The Lord my God will enlighten my darkness
Psalm 112:4 Unto the upright the ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full
of compassion
Micah 7:8 When I sit in darkness, Lord shall be a light unto me (see also Isaiah
58:10-11.)

6. LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE:

A. you’re blessed, so be joyful and happy:
Mathew 5:10-12 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile and persecute you.
Rejoice and be exceeding glad
John 16:33 In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have
overcome the world
2 Corinthians 7:4 I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation
Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice
1 peter 4:12-13 Rejoice … ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings
B. Happy days will come again:
Isaiah 51:11-12 the redeem of the Lord shall … obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and
mourning shall flee away
1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 [Jesus will soon come and take us to heaven] comfort one another with
these words (see also 5:10-11.)
(See also Isaiah 40:2; 52:9; 57:16-18; Jeremiah 31:12-14; Zechariah 1:12-
17.)
C. Sorrow will soon be gone:
Job 11:16 Thou shalt forget thy misery, and remember it as waters that pass away
Psalm 30:11 Weeping may endure a night, but joy cometh in the morning
Psalm49:13 Sing … be joyful break forth into singing: for the Lord hath comforted his
people … his afflicted
Isaiah 54:11 O thou afflicted … and not comforted, behold, I will lay thy stones with
fair colures

D. Think about and be thankful for his comfort s:

Psalm 94:19 In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul

7. WHY AND HOW TO COMFORT ONE ANOTHER:

A. Sometimes you need the help of another:
Jeremiah 8:18 When I will comfort myself … my heart is faint
2 Corinthians 2:7 Ye ought … to comfort him, lest (he) be swallowed up with overmuch
sorrow
(See also Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12.)

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B. we should comfort one another:
Genesis 37:34-35 And all his (Jacob’s) sons and daughters rose up to comfort him (see also
1 chronicles 7:22; job 2:11.)
Isaiah 40:1 comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God
Isaiah 61:1-2 the spirit of the Lord is upon me … he hath send me to bind up the
brokenhearted … comfort all that mourn
Isaiah 61:3 Give unto them the beauty of ashes, oil of joy for mourning, the
garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness
1 Corinthians 12:25 In the body … the members should have the same care one for another
2 Corinthians 2:8 I beseech you that ye confirm your love toward him
2 Corinthians 7:6 God … comforted us by the coming of Titus
[A follow-labourer](See also Ephesians 6:22; Colossians 4:7-8; 1
Thessalonians 3:2.)
2 Corinthians7:13 We were comforted [Titus’] sprit was refreshed by you
Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ
Colossians 2:2 Hearts … comforted, being knit together in love
Colossians 4:11 My fellow-workers … which have been a comfort unto me
1 Thessalonians 5:11 Comfort your selves together, and edify one another
1 Thessalonians 5:14 Comfort the feebleminded (fainthearted, timid)
C. how to comfort others:
Genesis 50:21 (Joseph) comforted them, and spake kindly unto them
Ruth 2:13 thou hast comforted me … thou hast spoken (kindly)
Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine
1 Thessalonians 2:11 We …comforted … you, as a father doth his children
Romans 12:15 Weep with them that weep

D. Use your own experience to comfort them:

2 Corinthians 1:4 That we may be able to comfort (others) in trouble, by the comfort
wherewith we are comforted of God
Psalm 66:12, 16 I will declare what he has done for my soul

E. The comforting, consoling power of inspired music:

Psalm 32:7 Thou shall compass me about with songs of deliverance
Psalm 42:5-8 My soul is cat down within me … yet … in the night his song shall be with
1 Samuel 16:14-16 An evil spirit … troubleth thee. [A musician] shall play … and thou shalt
be well (see also 16:23.)
Proverbs 25:20 [Caution: make sure you sing fitting songs]

F. Encouraging words of prophecy are a comfort:

1 Corinthians 14:3 He that prophesieth speaketh unto men to … comfort
G. When you don’t know what to say, just being there is a help:
Job 2:13 They sat down with him … and none spake a word into him: for the saw
that his grief was very great
Colossians 2:2 Hearts … comforted, being knit together in love

H. Make sure you are comforting, not condemning:

Job 16:2-5 Miserable comforters are ye all. [Job said if they were in his place, he
would have comforted them]

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8. WHEN FEELING ABANDONED, OR SUFFERING HEARTBREAK OR LOSS:

A. Even when all others leave you, you’ll always have the Lord:
2 Timothy 4:16-17 All men forsook me … notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and
strengthened me
Psalm 27:10 When father and mother forsake me, Lord will take me up
Psalm 34:22 None of them that trust in him shall be desolate
Psalm142:4-5 Refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul. Thou art my refuge and my
portion in the land of the living
Isaiah 54:1, 5-6 The Lord hath called thee as a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit …
when thou waste refused
Isaiah 54:10 The mountains shall depart … but my kindness shall not depart from
thee
Hebrews 13:5 He hath said, I will never leave thee nor forsake thee

B. His special care for the brokenhearted:

Psalm 34:18 The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a brokenhearted
Psalm 51:17 A broken and a contrite heart … thou will not despise
Psalm 61:2 When my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than
I
Psalm 147:3 He healeth the broken heart, and bindeth up their wounds
Ezekiel 34:16 I … will bind up that which was broken
Isaiah 61:1 he hath sent me (Jesus) to bind up the brokenhearted (see also Isaiah
57:15)
Luke 4:18 He hath sent me (Jesus) to heal the brokenhearted (see also Isaiah
57:15)

C. When sufferings bereavement over the loss of a loved one:

2 Samuel 12:15-23 [When David’s sick child died, he stopped fasting and weeping, saying:] I
shall go to him [in heaven]
1 Corinthians 15:17-21 [Jesus is raised from the dead, therefore our loved ones also live, and
we are not to be miserable]
1 Thessalonians 4:13 Concerning them which are asleep [departed,] sorrow not, as others
which have no hope
1 Thessalonians 4:14-18 The dead in Christ shall rise … we shall be … with them … comfort one
another with these words

D. It is better for them to be with the Lord:

2 Corinthians 5:8 We are … willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present
With the Lord
Philippians 1:23 Desire to depart … to be with Christ … is far better
Revelation 7:16-17 [the happiness of our departed loved ones in heaven]

E. When suffering remorse over mistake or sin:

(See also psalm 31:9-24’ 38:1-22’ 51:all; Lamentations 1:20; Luke 18:13-14; 2Corinthians 2:6-8. Also
compare Mathew 26:69-75 and mark 16:6-7.)

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9. HEAVENLY CONSOLATION FOR PRESENT SEFFERING AND SORROW:

A. Comforted by heavenly rewards:

Psalm 37:9 Those that wait on the Lord, shall inherit the earth
Mathew 5:4 Blessed are they mourn … they shall be comforted
Luke 6:21 Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh
Luke 12:32 Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the
kingdom (see also Mathew 25:34.)
Luke 16:19-22 [The suffering beggar Lazarus] carried by the angels into Abraham’s
bosom
John 16:20 Ye shall weep and lament … and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow
shall be turn into joy
Romans 8:18 The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with
the glory (heavenly reward)
2 Corinthians 4:17 Our light affliction, which is for a moment, worketh for us {an} eternal
weight of glory
2 Corinthians 1:7 As ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the
consolation
2 Timothy 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him

B. There will be no more sorrow or tears in heaven:

Isaiah 25:8 He will swallow up death In victory; and the God will wipe away tears
from off all faces
Revelation 21:4 God shall wipe away all tears from off all faces
Revelation 21:4 God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no
more … sorrow, nor crying (see also 7:17.)

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 HEALING
1. HEALING WAS PART OF JESUS MINISTRY:
2.
Mathew 4:23-24 Jesus went … healing all manner of sickness and disease
Mathew 9:35 Healing every sickness and disease among the people
Mathew 12:15 Great multitudes followed him and he healed them all (see also Mathew
15:30; 21:14; Acts 10:38.)

3. HEALING PROMISES ARE STILL VALID TODAY:

Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever
Malachi 3:6 I am the Lord I change not
Mark 16:17-18 These signs shall follow them that believe; lay hands on the sick and
they shall recover
John 14:12-14 He that believeth on me, the works I do shall he do
1 Corinthians 12:7,9 To another the gifts of healing by the same spirit
James 5:14-15 Isany sick among you? Call elders … let them pray

4. IT IS WITHIN GOD’S WILL TO HEAL:

5.
A. Scriptural authority for asking for healing:
Exodus 15:26 I am the Lord that healeth thee
Deuteronomy 7:15 The Lord will take away from thee all sickness
Psalm 84:11 No good thing will he hold withhold from them
Psalm 103:3 (He) forgiveth all iniquities, healeth all thy diseases
Psalm 107:20 He sent his word, and healeth them
Jeremiah 30:17 For I will restore health unto thee, and will heal
Malachai 4:2 Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings
Mathew 10:1 He gave them power … to heal all manner of sickness and … diseases
Mark 1:40-41 Lord, if thou wilt … Jesus saith, I will; be thou clean
Acts 9:34 Jesus Christ maketh thee whole
James 5:15 Prayer of faith save sick … and the Lord shall raise him up (see also
Ezekiel 34:16; 3 John 2.)

B. God prefers not to afflict; He’d rather heal:

C. Lamentations 3:33 He doth not afflict willingly
Psalm 22:24 He hath not despised … affliction of the affliction; neither hath he hid
This face from him
Hebrews 12:13 -Let it rather be healed

D. Jesus physical suffering paid for our healing:

Isaiah 53:5 He was wounded … with his stripes we are healed
Mathew 8:16-17 Himself took our infirmities and bare our sicknesses
1 Corinthians 11:23-24 This is my body, which is broken for you

1 Corinthians 11:29-30 Not discerning Lord’s body … many are weak and sickly
1 peter 2:24 By whose stripes ye were healed

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6. NOTHING IS TOO SERIOUS FOR GOD TO HEAL:
Jeremiah 32:27 I am the Lord … is there anything too hard for me?
Jeremiah 32:17 Ah Lord god! There is nothing too hard for the
Psalm 34:19 The Lord delivereth him out of them all (afflictions)
Psalm 103:3 Whohealeth all thy diseases
Mathew 10:1 Power to … heal all manner of sickness, and all disease
Mathew 19:26 With God all things are possible
Mark 9:23 All things are possible to him that believeth
Luke 1:37 With God, nothing shall be impossible
Luke 5:17 The power of the Lord was present to heal them

7. CONDITIONS FOR HEALING:

2 Kings 20:5 I have … seen thy tears, behold, I will heal thee
2 chronicle 7:14 If my people humble themselves, and pray and turn from their wicked
ways; then will I hear and heal
Isaiah 19:22 they shall return to the Lord … and he shall heal them
Isaiah 58:6-8 [Help others:] then thine health … spring forth speedily
Hosea 6:1 Come, let us return … and he will heal us
James 5:16 Confess your faults … and pray one for another, that ye may be healed

8. PRACTICAL STEPS IN OBTAINING HEALING:

A. Begin with a clean heart; unconfessed sin will hinder faith:
Psalm 66:18-19 IfI regard iniquity in my heart, Lord will not hear
Proverbs 28:13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper
James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another
1 John 3:21 If our heart condemn us not, then have we (faith) (see also 2 chronicles
7:14; psalm 51:10; 139:23; 1 John 1:8-9)

B. Prepare by memorizing promises; find authority in God’s word and faith will come of itself:
Romans 10:17 Faith cometh by hearing the word of the God
Joshua23:14 Not one thing hath failed of all that … God spake
1 king 8:56 Hath not failed one word of all his good promise
Proverbs 7:2-3 Write (my commandments) upon table of thine heart
Mathew 24:35 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but (not) my words
2 Corinthians 1:20 All the promises of God in him are yea and … Amen
2 peter 1:4 Great and precious promises: by these ye might partake

C. Be definite:
Isaiah 45:11 Concerning the work of my hands, command ye me
James 1:6-8 Ask in faith, nothing wavering

D. Expert from God: know you are entitled to his promises:

Mark 11:23 Whoever… shall believe … shall have whatsoever he saith
Mark 11:24 When ye pray, believe that ye receive and ye shall have
Hebrews 4:16 Come boldly … and find grace to help in time of need
Hebrews 11:6 He that cometh to God must believe … he is a rewarder

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E. Accept from God; there comes a time to cease praying:
Joshua 7:10 Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face?
Luke 1:38 Mary said, ‘’Beit unto me according to thy word”
F. Stand your ground in faith and trust:
Numbers 23:19 God is not a man, that he should lie. Hath he said and shall he not do it?
Psalm 112:7 Not be afraid of evil tidings … trusting in the Lord
Acts 27:25 I believe God, that it shall be even as was told me
Romans 3:4 Let God be true, but every man a liar
Romans 4:19-21 Being fully persuaded that what he had promised
Galatians 6:9 IN due season we shall reap, if we faint not
Ephesians 4: 27 Neither give place to the devil [his doubts and lies]
Ephesians 6:13 Withstand … and having done all, stand
Ephesians 6:16 Taking the shield of faith … to quench fiery darts
Hebrews 10:23 Hold fast [your] faith without wavering; he is faithful that promised
Hebrews 10:35-36 Ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye
might receive promise
1 peter 1:7 the trial of your faith … more precious than gold (see also proverb
24:10; John 2:8)

G. Real faith puts into action what it believes:

2 Kings 5:1,9-14 [Naaman obeyed Elisha, dipped in the Jordan, and was healed]
2 Chronicle 20:21-22 [When they went forth singing and praising God for the victory, he
performed the miracle]
Mathew 14:28-29 [Peter believe Jesus and stepped out on the water]
Mark 2:11-12 Take up thy bed, and go … and immediately he arose
Mark 3:1, 5 [A man stretches out his withered hand and is healed]
Luke 17:14 As they went, they were cleaned (healed)
John 4:47-53 Believed the word Jesus had spoken … and went his way
2 Corinthians 5:7 For we walk by faith, not by sight
James 2:17-26 As body without spirit … faith without works is dead

H. Thank Him for hearing and answering your prayer:

Luke 17:15-16 When he saw that he was healed … fell down his face at his feet, giving
him thanks
Romans 4:20 He was strong in faith, giving glory to God

9. PRAY FOR THE SICK:

A. Pray for healing in Jesus’ name

(See John 14:13; Acts 3:6; 4:10; 9:34.)

B. Laying hands on and touching the sick:

Mark 16:18 They shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover
Luke 4:40 He laid his hands on every of them, and healed them (see also Mathew
9:29; Mark 3:10 5:28; 6:56; 7:33-35; Luke 5:13; 6:19; 22:51.)

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C. Anointing with oil for healing:
(See also Mark 6:13; James 5:14.)

D. The power of united, group prayer:

Mathew 18:19-20 If two of you shall agree {in prayer} … it shall be done
Deuteronomy 32:30 One (shall) chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to fight
E. Who should pray for the sick:
Luke 8:50-51 [Have the unbelieving leave the room before you pray]
James 5:14-16 Call for the elders … and let them pray over him. The fervent … prayer of
a righteous man availeth much

10. FIGHT IN THE SPIRIT FOR HEALING:

Mathew 17:19-21 [unusual, stubborn sickness require extra faith and prayer and fasting]
Timothy 6:12 Fight good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life
A. Sing and praise the Lord:
(see also Psalm 34:1; 51:15; 66:17; 77:2, 10-11; 109:30.)
B. Quote Scripture like Jesus did:

Mathew 4:3-10 He answered and said, it is written … “

Ephesians 6:17 Take … the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God

11. REASONS THAT GOD ALLOWS AFFLICTIONS AND ILLNESSES:

A. To keep us righteous and close to Him:
Psalm 34:19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous
Psalm 119:71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted
2 Corinthians 12:7 Lest I should be exalted … given a thorn in the flesh
Hebrews 12:6,11 Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth
Revelation 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten
B. To glorify God when He heals:
Mathew 15:31 The multitude wondered … and they glorified God
John 9:1-3 [The blind man’s healing was to glorified God]

Acts 9:36-42 It was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed
C. Sickness is often caused by sin:
Psalm 38:2-5 My wounds stink and are corrupt … because of my sin … because of my
foolishness
Psalm 107:17 Fools, because of their … iniquities, are afflicted
Psalm 119:67 Before I was afflicted, I went astray: but now
Proverbs 26:2 The curse causeless shall not come (see also Numbers 12:1-5; 1 Samuel
5:1-12;25:2-11, 37-38; 2 chronicles 21:9-19; 26:16-21; Acts 12:21-23.)
D. Some sickness is an attack of the devil:
Mathew 9:32-33 When the devil was cast out, the dumb spake
Mark 9:17-20,25 [Jesus rebuked an unclean spirit, healing a child]
Luke 13:11,13,16 This woman … whom Satan hath bound 18 years
Acts 10:38 Healing all that were oppressed of the devil
E. To teach and to test us:
Job 2:3-7 [The Devil was allowed to afflict Job to rest him]
Job 5:17-18 Behold, happy is man whom God correcteth

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Psalm 94:12 Blessed is the man whom thou chasteneth and teachest
2 Corinthians 4:17 [Our temporary afflictions teach us eternal lessons]
F. Emotional or physiological causes:
Psalm 147:3 He healeth the broken heart, bindeth their wounds
Proverbs 11:17 He that is cruel troubleth his own flesh
Proverbs 14:30 Envy (is) the rottenness of the bones
Proverb 15:13 By sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken
Proverbs 17:22 A broken spirit is drieth the bones
Proverbs 18:14 A wounded spirit who can bear?
G. God will show you the reason if you ask him:
1 Samuel 6:3 Then ye shall be healed, and it shall be known to you why his hand is
not removed from you
Job 36:9-11 Then he sheweth them their … transgression
Philippians 3:15 God shall reveal even this unto you
H. How to help from getting sick:
Exodus 15:26 If thou wilt diligently heartken … I will put none of these diseases upon
thee
Psalm 91:9-10 Because thou hast made the Lord thy … habitation
Proverbs 4:20,22 Attend to my words … they are health to [your] flesh
I. Physical reasons for sickness:
Exodus 8:24 The land was corrupted by the swarm of flies
Proverbs 32:29-35 [Eating unclean meats, seafood, etc.]
Proverbs 25:16, 27 [Overindulgence in sweets:] Not good to eat much honey
Proverbs 23:3 Be not desirous of dainties: they are deceitful meat
Mark 7:3-4 [Lack of cleanliness: Jews washed often, lived long]
Romans 1:24-27 [Unclean or prevented Sex]
Philippians 2:27, 30 [overdoing physically:] Sick … not regarding his life

12. POINT TO REMEMBER AFTER PRAYER:

D. Reasons why we’re sometimes not healed:
Isaiah 59:1-2 The Lord’s is not shortened, but your sin’s have separated you
Hosea 5:15 I will return to my place, till the acknowledge their offence
2 Corinthians 12:7-9 [Paul prayed 3 times to be healed, but the Lord left him with a thorn in
the flesh to keep him humble ]
Hebrews 10:36 After ye have done the will of God ye ( shall) receive the promise
James 1:3 The trying of your faith worketh patience
1 Peter 1:7 Trial of your faith (is) much more precious than gold
E. Testify publicly about your healing:
Job 36:24 Remember that thou magnify his work, which men behold
Psalm 107:2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so
Mark 5:19 Go home to thy friends and tell them how great things the Lord hath
done for thee
Acts 4:10 Be it known unto you all, that by the name of Jesus… doth this man
stand here before you whole (see also Psalm 22:22,25; 35:18; 107:31-
32.)
F. Obey God once healed, or your sickness may return:
John 5:14 Thou arts may whole, sin no more, lest a worse thing
Psalm 85:8 But let them not turn again to folly

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13. MIRACULOUS OR NATURAL HEALING?
A. Doctors don’t always have the answers:
2 Chronicle 16:12-13 Asa was diseased in his feet … he sought not to the Lord, but to the
physicians. And Asa died
Psalm 118:8 Better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man
Jeremiah 46:11 In vain shalt thou use many medicines … not be cured
Mark 5:25-26 Suffered many things of many physicians … grew worse (see also Hosea
5:13)
B. Doctors medicines can help:
Proverbs 17:22 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine
Luke 10:34 He bound up his wounds … pouring in oil and wine
C. God ordained natural remedies:
2 Kings 20:1-7 Take a lump of figs … lay it on the boil (see also Isaiah 38:21.)
Jeremiah 51:8 Take balm for her pain, if so be she may be healed
Ezekiel 47:12 And the leaf thereof (shall be) for medicine
1 Timothy 5:23 Use a little wine for stomach’s sake and oft infirmities
D. Eat wholesome, nourishing food:
Psalm 103:5 (The Lord) saftisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is
renewal like the eagles’s
14. NO SICKNESS IN HAEVEN:
1 Corinthians 15:42-43 So is the resurrection … It is sown in corruption, raised in incorruption:
sown in weakness … raised in power (see also Isaiah 33;24; Revelation
21:4.)

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 OVERCOMING THE DEVIL
“We are not ignorant of his devices.” (2 Corinthians 2:11)

1. WHERE DID THE DEVIL COME FORM?

A. God created the Devil:

Proverbs 16:4 The Lord hath made all things … even the wicked I form the light, and
the darkness … and create evil: I Lord do all these things
Ezekiel 28:14-15 Anointed cherubs … from the day thou wast created
John 1:3 All things were made by him (Jesus)
Colossians 1:16 By him (Jesus) were all things created

C. The Devil’s fall through pride:

Isaiah 14:12-15 Thou hast said … I will be like the most high
1 Timothy 3:6 Lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the [same] condemnation (as)
the devil

2. THE DEVIL IS UNDER GOD’S RESTRICTION:

A. Satan could only afflict Job as God permitted:

Job 1:6-12 All he hath is in thy power; only on him put not … hand
Job 2:1-7 He is in thine hand; but save his life
B. God rules over the entire world:
Daniel 4:17 The most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to
whomsoever he will
Dan 4:34-35 He doeth according to his will … and none can stay his hand, or say unto
him, what doest thou?
Psalm 24:1 The earth is the Lord’s (see also Acts 17:24.)
Psalm 89:11 The heaven are thine, the earth also is thine
Job 41:11 Whatsoever is under the whole heaven is mine

C. But, within limitations, He allows the Devil to rule it:

Jeremiah 27:5 I (God) have made the earth … and have given it to whom it seemed
meet (appropriate) unto me
Luke 4:5-6 All the kingdom of the world … and this power and the glory of them …
is delivered unto (Satan)
John 12:31 The prince of this world (see also John 14:30; 16:11.)
2 Corinthians 4:4 The god of this world
Ephesians 2:2 Prince of the power of the air

C. The devil rules over the fallen angels:

(See also Mathew 12:24; Luke 11:15; revelation 12:3-4, 7-9.)

3. VICTORY OVER THE DEVIL.

A. God’s power is much greater than the Devil’s:
1 John 4:4 Greater is he (Jesus) that is in you than he (the Devil) that is in the world
Luke 10:17 The devils are subject unto us through thy name
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Luke 10:19 I give unto you power … over all the power of the enemy: and nothing
shall … hurt you
Philippians 2:9-11 At the name of Jesus every knee should bow
James 2:19 Thou believest that there is no God; the devils also believe, and tremble
(see also Zechariah 3:2; Jude 9.)
B. Jesus defeated the devil:
1 john 3:8 The son of God was manifested, thathe might destroy the works of the
devil
Hebrews 2:14 Through death the (destroyed) him that had the power of death, that is,
the devil
Colossians 2:15 Spoiling principalities and powers … triumphing over them
Luke 10:18 I saw Satan fall as lighting from heaven
C. Jesus ‘ power to exercise (cast out) demons:
Mathew 8:16 He cast out the (devils) with his word
Mathew 9:32-33 When the devil was cast out, the dumb spake
Mathew 12:22 One possessed with a devil … and (Jesus)healed him
Mathew 12:28 I cast out devils by the spirit of God
Mark 1:34, 39 He cast out many devils; and suffered not (did not allow) the devils to
speak
Luke 4:33-36 With authority and power he commandeth unclean spirits
Luke9:42 Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child
Lukes 8:27-33 [Jesus rebuked Legion; the went into the herd of swine] (see also Mark
1:17-23; 7:25-30; 9:17-27.)

D. Jesus gave his disciples power over the Devils

Mathew 10:1 He gave them (his disciples) power against unclean spirits, to cast them
out
Luke 9:1 He … gave them power and authority over all devils
Acts 5:16 There came [to the disciples] them which were vexed with unclean
spirits: and they were healed every one
Romans 16:20 The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet (see also acts 8:6-7;
19:11-12; 26:17-18)

E. Jesus gives all believers power over the Devil- including you:
Mark 16:17 These signs shall follow them that believe; in my name shall they cast
out devils
Luke 9:49-50 We saw one casting out devils in thy name [It wasn’t only the apostle
who had his power]
John 14:12 He that believeth on me, the works I do shall he do also
1 john 2:14 The word of God abideth in you and ye have overcome the wicked one

4. THE SPIRITUAL WARFARE:

A. Our war against the Devil:
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God
Ephesians 6:10-11 Be strong … put on armour … stand against the devil
Ephesians 6:12-13 We wrestle … against the rulers of darkness of this world, agaist
spiritual wickedness (see also 1 Samuel 16:23; Revelation 12:7,17.)

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B. Be on guard against and resist and defy the Devil:
1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walkketh about,
seeking whom he may devour
1 Peter 5:9 Resist () the Devil) steadfast in the faith
Ephesians 4:27 Neither give place to the devil
Mathew 4:10 Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, thou shalt worship the Lord thy
God, and him only
Mark 8:33 Get thee behind [away from] me, Satan
C. Promises to claim when fighting and overcoming the Devil:
Isaiah 59:19 When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the spirit of the Lord shall lift
up a standard against him
Mathew 16:19 Whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound
Luke 10:19 I give unto you power … over all the power of the enemy
Romans 16:20 The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet
James 4:7 Resist the devil, and he will flee from you
1 John 2:14 Ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have
overcome the wicked one
1 John 4:4 Greater is he (Jesus) that is in you, than he (the Devil) that is in the
world
D. Be prepared for battle when confronting the devil:
Mathew 12:29 How can one enter into a strong man’s house … except he first bind the
strong man?
Mark 9:29 This kind can come forth (only) by prayer and fasting
Acts 19:13-17 [Seven sons of sceva attempted exorcism without being full of Jesus
themselves, and met disastrous results]
E. United prayer for deliverance of the oppressed:
Mathew 18:19-20 If two of you shall agree … ask, it shall be done
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two are better than one

F. They must get filled up with Jesus and word once they ‘re delivered; or they may end up worse
than they were at first:
Luke 11:24-26 Unclean spirit, gone out of a man [returns to him, finds him empty, and
re-enters with 7 other spirits] (see also Mathew 12:43-45.)

5. THE DEVIL’S DEVICES:

A. Don’t be ignorant of the devil’s device:
Genesis 3:1 The serpent was more subtle than any beast
2 Corinthians 2:11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant
against of his device
Ephesians 6:11 Stand against the wiles of the devil
B.The Devil is a liar and deceiver:
Genesis 3:1 [Creates doubt of word:] yea, hath God said?
John 8:44 For he is a liar, and the father of it
Acts 5:1-4 Satan filled … heart to lie to the Holy Ghost
2 Corinthians 11:13-14 Satan … transformed into an angel of light (see also 2 Thessalonians 2:9-
11.)
1 John 4:1, 3 Beloved, believe not every spirit (see also Mathew 13:19; Luke 8:12.)
Revelation 12:9 The devil, Satan, which deceiveth the whole world

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C The Devil tries to turn men from salvation:
Mark 4:15 When they have, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word
(see also Mathew 13:19; Luke 8:12.)
Acts 13:8, 10 Elymas … child of the devil (sought) to turn away the deputy from the
faith
2 Corinthians 4:4 The (Devil)hath blinded the minds of (unbelievers) lest light of the
gospel … should shine unto them
D. The hinderer’:
Zechariah 3:1 Satan standing at his right hand to resist him
1 Thessalonians 2:18 We would have come … but Satan hindered us

E. Specific “devices” to be on guard against:

Mathew 16:21-23 [Leads people to contradict and doubt truth]
John 13:2 Devil having put into the heart of Judas … to betray
Acts 13:10 Child of devil … not(ceasing) to prevent right ways

1 Corinthians 14:33 for God is not the author of confusion

Colossians 1:13 who hath delivered us from the power of the darkness
2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear
1 John 3:10 [Hatred] Children of devil … loveth not his brother

6. THE DEVIL IS THE ACCUCOSER AND TEMPTED:

A Satan tempts men to sin:

(See also Genesis 3:1-6; 1 Chronicle 21:1-3.7-8; Mathew 4:3-9; 1 Corinthians 7:5; Luke 4:1-13.)
B.The Devil is the accuser, like a prosecuting attorney:
Revelation 12:10 The accuser of our brethren … which accused them before our God day
and night
Job 1:6 The son of God came …before the Lord, and Satan came also [Note:
“Satan” means ‘’accuser”.]
C. Jesus is our advocate, like a defense attorney:
1 John 2:1 If any man sin, we have an advocate with the father, Jesus Christ the
righteous
Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth ? Christ … at the right hand of God, maketh
intercession for us
Hebrews 9:24 Christ is … entered … into heaven, to appear in the presence of God for
us (see also 1 timothy 2:5.)

7. THE DEVIL IS A DESTROYER:

A. He causes bondage, snares and oppression:
(See Luke 8:29; Acts 10:38; Romans 8:10; 1 timothy 3:7; 2 Timothy 2:26.)

B. Disease:
(See Job 2:7; Luke 13:11-12,16; 2 Corinthians 12:7.)

C. And destruction:
(See John 8:44; Hebrews 2:14; 1Peter 5:8-9.)

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D. God sometimes uses the Devil to punish the disobedient:
(see 1 Samuel 16:14; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 1 Timothy 1:20.)

E. Satan seeks to subvert the saints:

Job 1:8-11 Doth Job fear God for nought? Put forth thine hand
Job 2:3-5 Put forth thine hand … and he will curse thee
Luke 22:31 Satan hath desired to … sift thee as wheat

8. JUDGEMENT OF THE DEVIL AND HIS DEMONS, AND HIS FINAL END:
A. Some are bound, awaiting judgment:
2 Peter 2:4 Angels that sinned … into chains of darkness
Jude 1:6 Reserved in everlasting chains unto judgment

B. Apparently most are still loose, their time isnot yet come:
Mathew 8:28-29 Art thou come hither to torment us before the time

C. Devil not yet cast out of heaven; has access to throne:

Job 1:6; 2:1 Sons of God … before God, and Satan among them
Revelation 12:10 Which accused them before God day and night
Revelation 12:7-9,13-14 [The Devil completely cast out of heaven at the beginning of the last 3 ½
years, in the time of the end]
D. Devil will be bound 1,000 years in God’s prison:
Revelation 20:1-3, 7, 1 [Satan bound 1,000 years afterward released for a short time before
being thrown into lake of fire ]
E. Devil and his demons finally thrown into the lake of fire:
Mathew 25:41 Everlasting fire prepared for devil and his angels
Revelation 20:10 The devil was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone

9. YOUR ARMOUR AND WEAPONRY TO DEFEAT THE DEVIL:

A. Your spiritual amour:
Ephesians 6:11, 13 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against
the wiles of the devil
Romans 13:12 Let us cast out the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of
light
2 Corinthians 6:7 Thearmour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left

B. Your mighty shield:

Ephesians 6:16 Take the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the
fiery darts wicked
Psalm 91:4 His truth shall be thy shield and buckler
Psalm 3:3 Thou, O Lord, art a shield for me (see also psalm 28:7; 33:20; 115:9;
144:2; Proverbs 30:5.)
C. Your invincible sword of the spirit:
Ephesians 6:16 Take … the sword of the spirit … the word of God
Hebrews 4:12 The word of God is … quick (alive) and powerful, and sharper than any
two-edged sword

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D. your breastplate:
Ephesians 6:14 Stand … having on the breastplate of righteousness (see also Isaiah
59:17.)
E. Your impenetrable helmet:
Ephesians 6:17 Take the helmet of salvation
1 Thessalonians 5:8 Let us … put on for an helmet, the hope of salvation

10. POWER, FREEDOM, AND DELIVERANCE FROM THE DEVIL’S DARKNESS:

A. God gives us overcoming power:

Luke 10:19 I give you power over all the power of the enemy
Ephesians 3:16 That he would grant you … to be strengthened with might by his spirit in
the inner man
2 Timothy 1:7 God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and
of a sound mind

B. Freedom from the Devil’s snares and bondage:

Psalm 91:3 He shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler
Psalm 124:7 Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is
broken, and we are escaped
Proverbs 14:27 Fear of God [helps] depart from the snares of death
2 Corinthians 3:17 Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty
2 Timothy 2; 25-26 Acknowledging of the truth … that they may recover themselves out of
the snare of the devil
D. Delivered into God’s glorious kingdom of light:
Acts 26:18 Open their eyes …turn them from darkness to light, from the power of
Satan unto God
Colossians 1:12-13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness … partakers of the
inheritance of the saints in light
D. The Devil cannot separate us from God:
Romans 8:38-39 Neither angels, nor powers …. Nor any other creature, shall be able to
separate us from.. Christ Jesus
1 Peter 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God … unto salvation

11. OUR ASTONISHING ANGELIC ALLIES, THE HOST OF HEAVEN:

A. They outnumber the Devil’s forces two to one:

2 Kings 6:16-17 They that be with us are more than they that be with them … mountain
was full of … chariots of fire
Revelation 12:3-4 (Satan’s) tail drew the third part of the stars (angels) (see also
Revelation 5:11.)
B. Their fantastic flaming weapons:
Genesis 3:24 Cherubim’s and a flaming sword, which turned every way
2 Kings 6:17 The mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha
(see also Numbers 22:23; 1 Chronicle 21:16.)
C. They battle against and defeat the Devil:
Revelation 12:7-9 Michael and his angels fought against … the (Devil) and his angels [and
the Devil’s forces were defeated]

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 FEAR NOT
Includes courage, trusting, peace, and fearing God
1. THE LORD TELLS US TO NOT FEAR:
Isaiah 7:4 Be quiet, fear not, neither be fainthearted
A. God is with us; therefore we should not fear:
Joshua 1:9 Have not I commander thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not
afraid … for the Lord is with thee
Psalm 118:6 The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do
Isaiah 12:2 God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid
Isaiah 41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee … I will help thee… I will help thee
Luke 12:32 Fear not, little flock
(see also Numbers 14:9; Psalm 78:53; Mathew 17:6-7.)
B. God is greater than any adversary, and He will keep us:
1 John 4:4 Greater is he that is in you, than he … in the world
Luke 10:19 I give you power … over all the power of the enemy
Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light … whom shall I fear?
Proverbs 3:25-26 Be not afraid of sudden fear … Lord shall keep (thee)

C. Don’t fear people:

Jeremiah1:8 Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee
Ezekiel 3:9 Fear them not, neither be dismayed at their looks

The Lord promises peace:

Job 22:21 Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace
Psalm 29:11 The Lord will bless his people with peace
Proverbs 3:24 When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid
Isaiah 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee
John 14:27 My peace I give unto you … let not your heart be troubled, neither let it
be afraid
John 16:33 In me ye [can] have peace … I have overcome the world
Galatians 5:22 The fruit of the spirit is … peace
Philippians 4:7 The peace of God … shall keep your hearts and minds

2. TRUSTING IN GOD OVERCOMES FEAR:

A. When we trust God, we don’t need to fear anything:
2 Kings 6:14-17 Fear not: for they (God’s angelic army) that be with us are more than
they that be with them
2 Kings 19:6-7 Be not ye afraid of the words which thou hast heard
Nehemiah 4:14 Be not afraid of them: remember the Lord, which is great and terrible,
and fight
Psalm 3:6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves
against me round about
Psalm 27:1, 3 Through an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear:
through war should rise against me
Psalm 46:1-2 God is our refuge … Therefore will not we fear, though the mountain be
carried into the … sea
Isaiah 43:1-3 Fear not … when thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee

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Hebrews 13:6 We may be boldly say, “The lord is my helper, and I will not fear what
man shall do unto me”
Revelation 2:10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer … be faithful unto
death, and I will give thee crown of life

B. Example of courage and fearlessness in danger:

Joshua 14:12-14 [Caleb fearlessly conquered the giant Anakim ] (see also Joshua 15:13-
15; Numbers 13:28, 33; Deuteronomy 9:1-2. )
Nehemiah 6:5-11 [Nehemiah refused to be bluffed into fearing, or into fleeing into the the
temple in fight]
Daniel 3:14-17 [Three Hebrews fearlessly refuse to worship the idol]
Daniel 6:4-10 [knowing it could cost him his life, Daniel refuse to compromise his faith
in God]
John 19:9-11 [Jesus refuses to be] put in fear of Pilate’s power]
Philippians 1:14 Many brethren, waxing confident (because of) my bonds, are much
more bold to speak the word without fear
Hebrews 11:27 (Moses) forsook Egypt, not fearing wrath of the king (see also Ezra 8:21-
23; 31: Acts 4:17-18, 29, 33; 7:54-60.)

C. Example of men who refuse to fear, through all others did:

1Samuel 14:1-14 [Jonathan and armourbearerattacked philistine garrison, while everyone
else was terrified] (see also 1Samuel 13:5-7.)
1 Samuel 17;4-11,23-37,48 [All the armies of Israel were “sore afraid” of Goliath, but David boldly
attacked him]
2 Samuel 23:8-22 [David’s mighty men stood their ground and defeated their enemies
despite overwhelming odds]

3. SOME CAUSES OF FEAR:

A. A lack of faith and trust in God and His Word:
Mathew 8:26 Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?
Mark 4:40 Why are ye so fearful? How is it ye have no faith?
Isaiah 51:12-13 Who art thou, that thou [art] afraid of man … and forgettest the Lord
thy maker?
B. Looking at circumstances and conditions:
Joshua 17:14-18 [Israelites fearful to attack the Canaanites because the Canaanites had
powerful chariots of iron]
Psalm 107:23-27 [Storm at sea] Their soul is melted … at wit’s end
Mathew 14:30 [Peter, walking on the sea of Galilee throws disciples into fear]
2 Corinthians 7:5 We were troubled on every side … within were fears (see also Isaiah 7:1-
2)
C. Disregarding God’s Word:
Deuteronomy 28:58, 65-67 If thou wilt not observe …thhe Lord shall give thee a trembling heart …
and shalt fear day and night
Leviticus 26:15, 17 If ye despise my statutes … ye shall flee when none pursueth
Jeremiah 6:19, 22-25 I will bring evil … because they have not hearkened unto my words…
fear is on every side

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D. Punishment for unrepeated sin:
2 Chronicle 29:6, 8 Our fathers have trespassed … wherefore he hath delivered them to
trouble (literally: trembling)
Job 18:5, 11 Terrors shall make (the wicked) afraid on every side
Isaiah 48:22 There is no peace, saith the Lord, unto the wicked

E. Evil spirits:
1 Samuel15; 23; 16:14-15 Thou (Saul) hast rejected the word of the Lord…an evil spirit from the
Lord troubled (terrified) him

4. WHAT FEAR CAN RESULT IN:

A. It can bind:
Proverbs 29:25 The fear of man bringeth a snare
Hebrews 2:15 Who though fear of death were … subject to bondage
B. It can cause weakness:
Job 4; 14 Fear came upon me, and trembling … all my bones shake
Isaiah 13:8 They shall be afraid: pangs … shall take hold of them
Jeremiah 6:24-25 Our hands wax feeble … fear is on every side

C. It can sap your will to fight and thus cause defeat:

Leviticus26:36-37 Ye shall have no power to stand before your enemies
Joshua 2:11 As soon as we heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did ther
remain any more courage
Joshua 5:1 Their heart melted, neither was there spirit in them any more (see also
1Samuel 13:6-7.)

D. It hinders us from witnessing or standing up for our convictions:

Mathew 26:56 Then all the disciple forsook (Jesus), and fled
Mathew 26:69-74 [Peter, fearful, denied that he knew Jesus] (see also Mark 14;66-72;
Luke 22:54-60; John 18:16-17, 25-27.)
John 7:13 No man spake openly of him for fear of the Jews
John 9:22 these [evasive] words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews
John 12:42-43 Many believe on him; but did not confess him … for they loved the
praise of men more than praise of God
John 19:12-16 [Pilate, fearing the Jews, gave in to their demands to have Jesus
crucified]
John 19:38 Joseph … a disciple, but secretly for fear of the Jews

E. It can cause us to disobey God:

Numbers 13:28, 31-33 [Israelites refused to invade Canaan for fear of the giants] (see also
numbers 14:1-5; Deuteronomy 1:26-28.)
1 Samuel 15:24 I have sinned … transgressed the commandment of the Lord … because I
feared the people

F. It can cause mental torment and anguish:

1 John 4:18 Fear hath torment

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G. Fear can even cause sickness and death:
1 Luke 21:26 Men’s hearts failing them for fear (see also 1 Samuel 14:15-16; 28:5.)

H. If not checked, fear can get a grip on you:

Psalm 48:6 Fear took hold of them, and pain, as a woman in travail
Psalm 55:5 Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, horror hath
overwhelmed me
Jeremiah 6:22-25 Anguish hath taken hold of us … fear is on every side

I. Unchecked fear can become extreme:

Leviticus 26:17, 36 Ye shall flee when none pursueth … sound of a shaken leaf shall chase
them
Deuteronomy 28:66-67 Thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life
Job 18:11, 14 Terrors shall make him afraid on every side … shall bring him to the king
of terrors
Psalm 53:5 There were they in great fear, where no fear was
Proverbs 28:1 The wicked flee when no man pursueth

J. Fear can materialize and become real things:

Job 3:25 the thing which I greatly feared is come upon him
Isaiah 66:4 I will choose their delusions … bring their fears upon them

K. Fear is contagious and can affect others:

Deuteronomy 20:8 What man is fearful? Let him go … lest his brethren’s heart faint as well
as his heart
Judges 7:3 Whosoever is fearful and afraid, let him … depart (see also judges 7:19-
22; 1 Samuel 14:12-16.)

5. HOW TO HAVE PEACE AND FREEDOM FROM FEAR:

A. Trust in the Lord:
Psalm 23:4 Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no
evil: for thou art with me
Psalm 31:13-14 Fear was on every side … but I trusted in thee
Psalm 56:3-4 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. I will not fear what flesh can
do unto me
Psalm 91:2, 5 The Lord is my refuge … [I shall] not be afraid for the terror by night
Psalm 112:7-8 He shall not be afraid … heart (trusts)in the Lord
Isaiah 26:3 Thou will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee:
because he trusteth in thee
Mathew 10:28 Fear not them which kill the body … but fear (God)
John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled … believe in me
Philippians 4:7 The peace of God … shall keep your hearts and minds
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; love casteth out fear

B. Trust in God’s word:

Psalm 119:165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend
them
Proverbs 1:33 Whoso hearkened unto me … shall be quiet from fear

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Proverbs 3:1-2 Let thine heart keep my commandments … peace shall they add to thee
Isaiah 48:18 O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! Then had thy
peace been as a river

C. Remember that God is with you and will not fail you:
Deuteronomy1:29-30 Dread not, neither be afraid of them … God goeth before you, he shall
fight for you
Deuteronomy 20:3-4 Let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye
terrified … for God doeth with you
Deuteronomy 31:6 Fear not, nor be afraid … God … will not fail thee
Zechariah 8:13 Fear not, but let your hands be strong
Mark 5:36 Be not afraid, only believe

B. When others with you are afraid:

Isaiah 8:12 Neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid
Isaiah 35:4 Say to them that are of fearful heart, “Be strong, fear not: behold, God
… will come and save you”

E. Seek the Lord for deliverance from fear:

Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears
Psalm 64:1 O God … preserve my life from fear of the enemy

F. Forsake your sin:

Job 11:13-15 [Pray to God and] put (iniquities) far away … Then shalt thou … be
steadfast, and shalt not fear

G. Rebuke the Devil and the spirit of fear:

James 4:7 Resist the devil, and he will flee from you
1 John 4:18 There is no fear in love; perfect love casteth out fear

H. The solution – the Holy Spirit and faith:

Acts 4:29,31 Behold their threatening’s … grant unto thy servants, that with all
boldness thye may speak thy word
Hebrews 11:33-34 Who through faith … waxed valiant in fight

6. THE ONLY ONE WE SHOULD FEAR IS GOD;

(Fear of God is a feeling of reverence, awe, and respect, not the unpleasant emotion of terror or dread.)

A. We are commanded to fear God:

Joshua 24:14 Fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth
Psalm 19:9 The fear of the Lord is clean (Compare with Proverbs 29:25.)
Proverbs 3:7 Fear the Lord, and depart from evil
Ecclesiastes 12:13 Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of
man
Isaiah 8:12-13 Neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid … let him (God) be your fear
Luke 12:4-5 Be not afraid of [Men]… I will warn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him
[God] … yea, I say, Fear him

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Hebrews 10:31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of … God (see also Mathew
10:28)

B. God’s blessings on them that fear Him:

Psalm 25:12 He that feareth the Lord … shall he teach in the way
Psalm 31:19 How great is thy goodness … for them that fear thee
Psalm 34:9 There is no want (lack) to them that fear him
Psalm 147:11 The Lordtaketh pleasure in them that fear him
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge
Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom
Proverbs 14:26 In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence
Malachi 4:2 Unto you that fear my name shall the sun of righteousness arise with
healing in his wings
Acts 10:35 He that feareth him… is accepted with him
Revelation 11:18 Reward thy servants, and them that fear thy name

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 THANKFULNESS
Praise and thankfulness VS. Murmuring and complaining

1. HAVING A THANKFUL, GRATEFUL ATTITUDE:

A. The Lord wants and expects us to be thankful:
Psalm 50:14 Offer unto God thanksgiving
Psalm 95:2 Come before his presence with thanksgiving
Psalm 100:4 Be thankful unto him
Psalm 140:13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name
Ephesians 5:20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God
Colossians 3:15 Be ye thankful
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God (see also psalm92:1.)

B. We should be content:
Philippians 4:11 In whatsoever state I am, therewith … be content
1 Timothy 6:8 Having food and raiment let us be therewith content
1 Timothy 6:6 Godliness with contentment is great gain
Hebrews 13:5 Be content with such things as ye have (see also Proverbs 15:16-17.)

C. Don’t take God’s blessings for granted:

Psalm 68:19 Blessed be Lord … who daily loadeth us with benefits
Psalm 103:2 Bless the Lord … and forget not all his benefits
Luke 17:12-18 Werenot ten [lepers] cleansed? Were are the nine? (None) returned to
give glory to God, save [one]

D. Remember to regularly thank him for your blessings:

2 Samuel 22:49-50 Thou hast delivered me … therefore I will give thanks
1 Chronicles 16:8 Give thanks … make known his deeds among the people
Psalm 136:1-3 Give thanks unto the God … for his mercy endureth forever
1 Corinthians 15:57 Thanks be to God, which … causeth us to triumph (see also psalm 26:7;
107:22.)
2. PRASING THE LORD:
A. We are admonished to praise the Lord:
Psalm 107:8 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness and for his
wonderful works
Psalm 18:3 The Lord … is worthy to be praised
Psalm 22:3 [God] inhabitest the praises of Israel
Psalm 66:8 O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his prise to be heard
Psalm 67:3 O God, let all the people praise thee
Psalm 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise
Psalm 103:1 Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name
Psalm 113; 1 Praise ye the Lord, O ye servant of the Lord
Psalm 117:1 Praise ye the Lord, all ye nations … all ye people
Psalm 147:1 Praise ye the Lord: for … praise is comely
Psalm 150:6 Leteverything that hath breath praise the Lord
1 Peter 2:9 Ye should show forth praises of him who called you (see also Psalm
50:23; 148: all; 150: all.)
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B. Praise the Lord in song:
Psalm 30;4 Sing unto the Lord … and give thanks
Psalm 69:30 Praise the name of the God with song … and thanksgiving
Psalm 92:1 It is a good thing to … sing praises unto thy name
Psalm 98:1 Sing unto the Lord a new song
Psalm 147:1, 7 Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving; sing praise
Ephesians 5:19 Making melody in your heart to the Lord
Colossians 3:16 Singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord
C. Praise the Lord happily:
Psalm 5:11 Let them that love thy name be joyful in thee
Psalm 95:2 Make a joyful noise unto him with psalms
Isaiah 51:3 Joy and gladness … thanksgiving, and the voice of melody
Jeremiah 30:19 Out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make
merry (see also psalm 100:1; Jeremiah 33:11.)
D. Have a continual attitude of praising God:
Hebrews 13:15 Let us offer … praise to God continually...Our lips givingthanks to his
Name
Psalm 34:1 I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my
mouth
Psalm 35:28 My tongue shall speak of thy … praise all day long
Psalm 71; 8 Let my mouth be filled with thy praise … all day long (see also Psalm
30:12; 72:15; 79:13; 104:33; 113:3.)
3. MURMURING (COMPLAINING) FORBIDDEN BY GOD:
JOHN 6:43 Jesus said unto them, murmur not among yourselves
1 Corinthians 10:10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them murmured
Philippians 2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputing (see also Psalm 144:14.)
4. Causes of murmuring:
A. Lack of gratitude for what God has given us:
Numbers 11:4-6, 18 We remember the fish, cucumbers, melons, leeks … now there is
nothing at all, beside this manna
Numbers 21:4-5 There is no bread … and our soul loatheth this (manna)
B. Lack of faith in God to supply our needs:
Exodus 16:2-3 The whole congregation … murmured against Moses … in the wilderness
[when they run out of food]
Exodus 17:1-4 People thirsted … and murmured … thou brought us out of Egypt, to kill
us with thirst (see also Exodus 15:23-24.)
C. Loss of faith in God’s word and His Power:
Psalm 106:24-25 They believe not his word … but murmured
John 6:60-66 Many disciple said, this is an hard saying … his disciples murmured …
many went back (compare Exodus 3:4-8; 4:30-31; with Exodus 14:9-12;
Deuteronomy 1:19-27; Numbers 14:1-11.)
D. Giving up and losing hope:
1 Samuel 27:1 David said, “I shall perish one day by the hand of Saul”
1 King 19:1-4,10 Elijah … requested that he might die
Jeremiah 20;14-18 Cursed be the day I was born … wherefore came I … out nof the womb
to see labour and sorrow?
Jonah 4:1-9 Jonah prayed, Take my life from me; for it is better for me to die than to
live (see also Job 7:6, 11, 10:1.)

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E. Lack of faith that God loves us:
Deuteronomy 1:27 Ye murmured, and said, Because the Lord hated us, ‘he brought us [to
Canaan] to destroy us (see also Psalm 73:13-14; 77:1-9.)
F. Thinking that God is far away and doesn’t hear:
Job 23:2-9 Today is my complaint bitter: Ohthat I knew where I might find him. I
cannot perceive him
Psalm 10:1 Why standest thou afar off, O Lord? Why hidest thou? (see also Psalm
13:1; 22:1, 12.)
G. Self-righteously judging others:
Mark 14:4-10 Why was this waste … made? For it might have been sold … they
murmured. Judas … went to betray him
Luke 15:2 The Pharisees murmured, this man receiveth sinners
Luke 19:7 When [Pharisees] saw it, they all murmured, he [has] gone to be a guest
with a sinner
WHY MURMURING IS DANGEROUS:
A. Murmuring angers God:
Numbers 11:1 When the people complained, it displease the Lord: and his anger was
kindled; and fire … consumed them
Numbers 11:10, 33 [Israelites wailed for meat] and the anger of the Lord kindled greatly …
and the Lord smote the people
Numbers 21:4-6 The people spake against God … and the Lord sent fiery serpents among
the people … and much people died
1 Corinthians 10:10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them [Israelites] also murmured, and
were destroyed of the destroyer (see also Numbers 17:10.)
B. God may take us at our word:
Numbers 14:1-2 All the children of Israel murmured … would God that we had died in
this wilderness
Numbers 14:26-35 As ye have spoken, so will I do to you: your carcasses shall fall in this
wilderness … even forty years
6. WHAT TO DO WHEN PROBLEMS ARISE:
A. Praise and rejoice even when things go wrong:
Habakkuk 3:17-18 Although the … fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off … yet
will I rejoice in the Lord
Mathew 5:11-12 When man revile you, and persecute you, and say … evil against you
falsely … rejoice, and be exceeding glad
Luke 6:22-23 When man shall hate you …separate you … reproach you … rejoice ye …
and leap for joy
Acts 5:40-41 They call the apostles, and beat them …. They departed rejoicing that
they were worthy to suffer shame
Acts 16:22-25 Beat them … cast them into prison … Paul and Silas prayed, and sang
praises unto God
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks: this is the will of God
1 Peter 4:12-13 Think it not strange …the fiery trial … but rejoice (see also Jeremiah
15:10-11, 16; Jonah 2: all; Philippians 4:4)
B. If you have a genuine deep grievance, tell the Lord:
Psalm 55:2-3 Hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise … because of the
enemy … my heart is sore pained
Psalm 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee

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Psalm 77:1-4 I was troubled: I complained, my spirit … overwhelmed
Psalm 142 I poured out my complaint before him; I showed him my trouble … my
spirit was overwhelmed
1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; forhecareth for you (see also Hebrews
4:14-16.)
C. Keep a thankful attitude in prayer:
Philippians 4:6 By prayer … with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto
God
Colossians 4:2 Continue in prayer … with thanksgiving

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 PRIDE, SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND HUMILITY
1. WHAT THOSE GOD THINK ABOUT PRIDE?
A. He hates it:
Proverbs 6:16-17 These … doth the Lord hate: a proud look
Proverbs 16:5 Every one that is proud … is an abomination to Lord
B. We should hate it too:
Proverbs 8:13 pride, arrogances, and the evil way, and the forward mouth, do I hate.
C. Pride is a sin, not a virtue:
Proverbs21:4 An high look, and a proud heart … is sin
Habakkuk 2:4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright
1 John 2:16 Pride … is not of the father, but is of the world

2. WHY IS IT WRONG FOR US TO BE PROUD?

A. Because only the Lord is great; we are not:
Psalm 66:5-7 Come and see the works of the God … he ruleth … let not the rebellious
exalt themselves
Psalm 97:9 Thou, Lord, art high … exalted far above all
Ezekiel 28:2 Thine heart is lifted up … yet thou art a man, and not God, through thou
set thine heart as … God
Philippians 2:9-10 God hath highly exalted him (Jesus), and given him a name above every
name … every knee should bow (see also Psalm 21:13; 57:5, 11; 108:5;
Isaiah 2:11, 17.)
B. God alone should get the glory:
Acts 12:20-23 Angel … smote him, because he gave not God the glory
1 Corinthians 10:31 Whatsoever ye do, all the glory of God (see also Jeremiah 9:23-24; 1
Corinthians 1:28-29.)
C. Pride makes us ignore and Forget God:
Deuteronomy 8:14 (When) thine heart be lifted up … thou forget the Lord
Psalm 10:4 The wicked, through … pride … will not seek after God
Hosea 13:6 Heart was exalted; therefore have they forgotten me
D. God will distance Himself from and resist the proud:
Psalm 138:6 The proud he (the Lord) knoweth afar off
James 4:6 God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto humble

E. Pride makes us rebel against the word:

Nehemiah 9:16-17, 29 They dealt proudly … and hearkened not to thy (word)

F. It gives us an exaggerated sense of greatness:

Obadiah 1:3 The pride of thine heart hath deceived thee, that saith, who shall bring
me down?
Romans 12:3 (Thinking) of himself more highly than he ought to
Galatians 6:3 If a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he
deceiveth himself

G. It creates self- exaltation and desire to be honoured:

Proverbs 25:27 For men to search their own glory is not glory

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Mathew 23:5-7 (proud Pharisees) love … greetings (in public), and to be called of men,
(Master, Master)
Mark 12:38-39 Scribes … love … chief seats … and uppermost rooms
Jude 1:16 Their mouth speakethgreat swelling words, having men’s persons in
admiration

H. When we seek to please men, we often displease the Lord:

1 Samuel 15:30 I have sinned: [but] honour me … before the [people]
John 5:44 Ye … receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that
cometh from God only
John 12:43 They love praise of men more than the praise of God
Galatians 1:10 If I pleased… not be the servant of Christ

I. Pride gives us a “know-it-all” attitude:

Psalm 131:1 [The haughty exercise themselves in great matters, in things too high fo
them]
Proverbs 26:12 Seest thou a man “wise” in his own conceit? There is more hope of a
fool than of him (see also 1Timothy 1:7)
K. Pride causes arguments:
Proverbs 13:10 only by pride cometh contention
Proverbs 28:25 He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife (see also Proverbs 14:3;
21:24.)
L. Pride corrupts us:
Mark 7:22-23 Pride [comes] from within, and defiles the man
M. Pride will bring about our downfall:
Proverbs 11:2 When pride cometh, then cometh shame
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall
Proverbs 18:12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty
Proverbs 29:23 A man’s pride shall bring him low
Ezekiel 28:12-17 [The fall of Satan happened because he exalted himself in pride] (see
also Isaiah 14:12-15.)
Daniel 5:18, 20-21 [God gave Nebuchadnezzar … majesty … and honour: But when his
heart was lifted up … he was deposed]
1 Corinthians 10:12 Him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall

3. SOME CAUSES OF PRIDE:

A. Beauty:
Ezekiel 28:17 Thine heart is lifted up because of thy beauty
B. Materials abundance:
Deuteronomy 8:12-14 Lest when thou … art full … and all that thou hast is multiplied; then
heart be lifted up
Ezekiel 28:5 Thine heart is lifted up because of thy riches
Hosea 13:6 Theywere filled, and their heart was exalted
C. Being overly secure:
Psalm 73:5-6 They are not in trouble as other men … therefore pride compasseth
them about as a chain

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D. Being overly effected by exaltation:
2 Chronicle 26:15-16 He was marvelous helped, till he was strong. But when he was strong,
his heart was lifted up
Daniel 11:11-12 [Victory over enemies causes heart to be lifted up]
1 Timothy 3:6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall

4. WARNING AHGAINST PRIDE:

A. We should avoid proud boasting
1 Samuel Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogance come out of your
mouth
Proverbs 27:2 Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth
2 Corinthians 10:18 Not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord
commendeth
B. We shouldn’t exalt ourselves:
Proverbs 25:6-7 Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the
place of great men
Luke 14:10 When thou art bidden … sit down in the lowest room
C. If we’re proud, we’re in dangerous position:
Psalm18:27 Thou (God) wilt bring down high looks
Proverbs 15:25 The Lord will destroy the house of the proud
Ecclesiastes 7:16 Be not righteous over much [overly righteous]… why shouldstthou
destroy thyself?
Jeremiah 48:25-26, 29 [Exceeding proud, lofty, arrogant, haughty Moabites magnified selves
against the Lord and were cut off]

5. SELF- RIGHTEOUS: WHY IS IT WRONG TO THINK THAT WE- IN OURSELVES – ARE GOOD AND
RIGHTEOUS?
A. Because we are not:
Job 15:14 What is man, that he should be clean?..Righteousness?
Job 15:15-16 The heavens are not clean in his sight. How much more abominable and
fithy is man
Psalm 130:3 If thou shouldest mark iniquities, who shall stand?
Proverbs 20:9 Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure?
Ecclesiastes 7:20 There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good and sinneth not
Isaiah 64:6 We are all as unclean thing, and all our righteousness are as filthy rags
Romans 3:10, 23 There is none good but one, that is, God
Job 9:2 But how should man be just with God?
Psalm 71:16 I will make mention of thy righteousness, thine only

C. Doing so causes us to be lifted up in pride:

Proverbs 30:12-13 (They) are pure in their own eyes … o how lofty are their eyes! And their
eyelids are lifted up
Luke 18:11 God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men … unjust

D. It separates us from God:

Romans 10:3 They … going about to establish their own righteousness, have not
submitted unto the righteousness of God
Job 13:16 An hypocrite shall not come before him

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E.It makes us unable to see our sins:
Job 32:1s Job … was righteous in his own eyes (see also Proverbs 16:2, 21:2.)
Proverbs 30:12 A generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed
from their filthiness
Luke 6:41-42 Why perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
John 9:41 Ye say, “We see”, therefore tour sin remaineth

F. True righteousness means trusting God:

Galatians 3:6 Abraham believe God, it was accounted … righteousness
Philippians 3:9 Not having mine own righteous... but … of God
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his
mercy he saved us

6. SELF- RIGHTEOUSNESS: WHY IS IT WRONG TO THINK WE- IN OURSELVES- ARE BETTER THAN
OTHERS?
A. Because we’re not:
John 8:7 He that is without sin … let him first cast a stone
Romans 3:23 All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God
B. A proud attitude displeases and angers God;
Isaiah 65:5 (They) say, “I am holier than thou. “ These are a smoke in my (God’s)
nose
Luke 16:15 Ye are they which justify yourselves … but … that which is highly
esteemed among men is abomination (to) God
C. It makes us despise and be unmerciful to others:
Mathew 23:29 Ye have omitted the weightier matters … mercy
Luke 18:9 (They) trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised
others
Luke 18:11 God, I thank thee that I am not as other men are … unjust … or even as
this publican (tax collector) (see also Mathew 9:13.)

D. We only are what we are by God’s grace:

1Corithians 4:7 Whomaketh thee to differ from another? And what hast thou that thou
didst not receive?
1 Corinthians 15:10 By the grace of God I am what I am
2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing

7. THE HUMBLING OF THE PROUD:

A. GOOD CAN – AND DOES – HUMBLE THE PROUD:
Daniel 4:37 Those that walk in pride he is able to abase
Genesis 11:1-8 [Men were building the tower of Babel in pride, so God confused and
scattered them]
1 Samuel 13:8-14 [Saul presumed to offer the sacrifice without waiting for Samuel, and
lost the kingdom as a result]
2 Chronicles 32:24-25 Heart was lifted up: therefore … wrath (was) upon him
Job 33:15-17 [God works on our heart at night to remove pride]
Psalm 101:5 Him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer (allow to
continue)

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Isaiah 2:11 The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men
shall be bowed down
Isaiah 2:12 Every one that is proud and lofty … shall be bought low
Isaiah 13:11 I will cause the arrogance of the proud to cease
Daniel 4:30-35 [King Nebuchadnezzar, lifted up in pride, was deposed by God, abased
as a best, and learned humility]
Daniel 5:20-21 When his … mind (was) hardened In pride … was deposed
2 Corinthians 12:7 Lest I (Paul) should exalted above measure… there was given to me a
thorn in the flesh (see also Jeremiah 50:31-32; Obadiah 4.)
B. It is a law of God: if we’re proud, we will be humbled:
Mathew 23:12 Whosoever shall exalt himself shall be based
Luke 14:11 Whosoeverexalteth himself shall be abased
C.Being humbled teaches us that God is in charge:
JOB 42:1-6 [After being humbled, Job said:] I know that thou canst do everything …
I … repent
Daniel 4:32-35 Eat grass … until thou know that the most high ruleth
8. WHY WE SHOULD WANT TO BE HUMBLE:
A. Because God loves and delights in the humble:
Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart,
o God, thou wilt not despise
Psalm 138:6 The Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly
1 Peter 3:4 A meek and quiet spirit … is in the sight of God of great price
1 Peter 5:5 God … giveth grace to the humble
B. He is close to the humble:
Psalm 34:18 The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart
Isaiah 57:15 The high and lofty one that inhabiteth eternity (dwell) with him that is
of a contrite and humble spirit
G. He requires us to be humble:
Micah 6:8 What doth the Lord require … walk humbly with thy God
Colossians 3:12 Put on, as the elect of God … humbleness of mind
D. Humility brigs honour and blessings:
Proverbs 22:4 By humility … are riches, and honour, and life
Proverbs 29:23 Honour shall uphold the humble spirit
E. If we are humble, God will exalt us:
Mathew 23:12 He that shall humble himself shall be exalted
Luke 1:52 He put down the mighty … and exalted them of low degree
F. God helps the humble:
Psalm 9:12 He forgetteth not the cry of the humble
Psalm 25:9 The meek will he guide … and meek will he teach his way
Psalm 34:18 The Lord … saveth such as be of a contrite spirit
Psalm 147:6 The Lord lifteth up the meek: He caseth wicked down
Isaiah 57:15 (i) revive spirit of the humble, and heart of contrite ones
Luke 1:48 He hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden
1 Peter 5:5 God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble
G. Humility can spare us from trouble:
1 King 21:17, 25-29 [Wicked king Ahad humbled himself before God, so God didn’t bring
judgment during his lifetime]

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2 Chronicle 32:26 Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart … so that the wrath
of the Lord came not
H. God gives the humble true wisdom:
Proverbs 11:2 [Pride causes shame] but with the lowly is wisdom
1 Corinthians 3:18 Let him became a fool, that he may be wise (see also Luke 10:21.)
I. Humility is true greatness in God’s eyes:
Ecclesiastes 7:8 The patient in spirit is better than proud in spirit
Mathew 18:4 Whosoever shall humble himself is greatness in the kingdom of heaven
Mathew 19:30 The lest shall be the first
Mark 10:43 Whosoever will be great … shall be your minister
Luke 22:26 He that is greatness … let him be as the younger

J. God uses and exalts the humble:

1 Samuel 15:17 When thou wast little in thine own sight … the Lord
Proverbs 15:33 Beforehonour is humility
James 4:10 Humble yourselves … and he shall lift you up
1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves … that he may exalt you in due time

K. Other blessings upon the meek:

Psalm 37:11 The meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight
Psalm 149:4 The Lord … will beautify the meek with salvation
Mathew 5:5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth

9. Keeping a humble attitude:

A. Remind yourself that anything good is only Jesus, not you:
Genesis 41:15-16 Joseph answered Pharaod, saying, it is not in me: God shall give Pharaod
an answer
Daniel 2:26-30 God … revealeth secrets. But as for me, this secret is not revealed to me
for any wisdom that I have
1 Corinthians 4:7 What hast thou that didst not receive [from God]? Why dost thou glory?
1 Corinthians 15:9-10 I am not meet [worthy] to be called an apostle … but by the grace of
God I am what I am
2 Corinthians 10:17 He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord (see also Jeremiah 9:23-24.)
Galatians 6:14 God forbid I should glory, save in the cross of Jesus (see also Romans
2:11; Galatians 6:3.)
B. Read and obey the word:
Deuteronomy 17:19-20 [Read and obey the word] that heart be not lifted up
C. Realistically admit your limitations:
Romans 12:3 (Don’t) think of [yourself] more highly than [you]ought to think; but
think soberly
Romans 12:16 Be not wise in your own conceits

10. Humility with one another:

A. Follow Jesus ‘example of humility:
Mathew 21:5 Thy king [Jesus] cometh unto thee, meek … upon ass
John 13:5, 12-15 He began to wash the disciples’ feet, and wipe them … I have given you
an example, that ye should do as I

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Luke 22:27 He that sitteth at meat [is greater] … but I am among you as he that
serveth
Philippians 2:5-8 Let this mind in you … Jesus made himself

B. Other examples of true humility:

1 Samuel 25:40-41 [Abigail, when to marry David, said:] Let [me] be a servant to wash the
feet of [his] servants
Mark 7:25-30 [Syropheonician woman said:]yet the dogs under the table eat of the
children’s crumbs
Luke 7:2-7 [Pharisees said] he was worthy for whom he should do this. The
centurion [said], I am not worthy
John 1:27 [Jesus] shoe’s latchet I am not worthy to unloose

C. Submit humbly to one another:

Luke 22:25-26 Kings … exercise lordship. But ye shall not be so. He that is greatest … let
him be as the younger
Ephesians 5:21 Submitting yourselves one to another in fear of God
1 Peter 5:5 All of you be subject one to another, and clothed with humility: for God
resisteth the proud

D. Love and honor others:

Romans 12:10 With brotherly love; in honor preferring one another
Romans 12:16 Mind not high, condescend to men of low estate
Romans 14:2-3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not
1 Corinthians 13:4 Charity (love)vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up
Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory bet in lowliness of mind
let each esteem other better than themselves

E. Be humble when pointing out other’s errors:

Luke 6:42 Cast out first the beam out of thine own eye
Galatians 6:1 Restore such an one in the spirit of meekness
2 Timothy 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves

11. THE SOLUTION:

A. Confess your faults and inabilities and humble yourself before God:
James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord
1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves … under the mighty hand of God
B. Ask others to pray for you to overcome pride:
James 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another
Mathew 18:19-20 If two of you shall agree [in prayer] it shall be done
C. Examples of humbling oneself before the Lord:
2 Samuel 24:2-4, 8-10 [In pride, David took a census of his kingdom to see how great he was,
then repented and sought mercy]
Job 40:1-5, 42:1-6 [Self-righteous Job – see 32:1; 35:2 – humbled himself, confessed he
was vile, and repented]
Psalm 51:1-4 I acknowledge my … sin … that thou mightiest be justified when thou
speakest

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Daniel 4:33-35, 37 [King Nebuchadnezzar humbled himself and confessed that only God
was great] (see also 1 Samuel 9:21 about Saul; 2 Samuel 7:18 about
David; 1 Kings 3:7 about Solomon; Mathew 3:14 about John the
Baptist.)

12. SPECIAL PASSAGE:

1 Kings 12:1-16 [Rehoboam“answered the people roughly”]
2 Chronicles 26:14-23 [King Uzziah, “lifted up”, presumed to offer incense]
Daniel 4:all [Nebuchadnezzar’s pride, humiliation and restoration]
Luke 18:9-14 [The parable of the proud Pharisees and humble sinner]

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 THE POWER OF THE TONGUE
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” (Proverbs 18:21)
1. THE POWER OF POSITIVE SPEECH:
A. Loving, wholesome speech as a great effect:
2 Chronicles 10:7 If thou be kind unto his people … and speak good words to them,
they will be thy servant forever
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath
Proverbs 15:23 A word spoken in due season, how good is it
Proverbs 25:15 By long forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh
the bone.
B. Wise speech is health and life:
Proverbs 10:11 The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life
Proverbs 12:18 The tongue of the wise is health
Proverbs 15:4 A wholesome tongue is a tree of life
Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are … sweet to the soul, and health
C. Other point on wholesome speech:
Proverbs 8:6 The opening of my lips shall be right things
Proverbs 14:3 The lips of the wise shall preserve them
Proverbs 31:26 In her tongue is the law of kindness
Ecclesiastes 10:12 If any offend not the word, the same is a perfect (complete, mature)
man
(See also Psalm 37:30; Proverbs 10:31; 15:7; 24:26; Malachi 2:6-7.)
D. Speaking of the right things at the right time:
Proverbs 10:32 The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable
Proverbs 25:11 A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver
Ecclesiastes 8:5 A wise man’s heart discerneth both time and judgment
E. Speaking encouraging words to strengthen others:
Genesis 50:21 And he comforted them, and speak kindly unto them
Deuteronomy 3:28 Encourage him, and strengthen him
Job 4:4 Thy words have uphold him that was falling, and thou hast
strengthened the feeble knees
Job 16:5 I would strengthen you with my mouth
Isaiah 35:3-4 Strengthen the weak hands … say to them, be strong
Isaiah 50:4 Speak a word in season to him that weary
F. Talking about the Lord’s Word:
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 Thou shalt talk of (the word) when thou sittest … when thou walkest
… when thou liest down … and risest up
Psalm 119:172 My tongue shall talk of thy word
John 6:63 The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and … life
Ephesians 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in Psalms and hymns and … songs
1 Peter 4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God
G. Sharing testimonies about the great things God has done:
Psalm 9:11 Sing praises … declare among the people his doings
Psalm 35:28 My tongue shall talk of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day
long
Psalm 66:16 I will declare what he hath done for my soul
Psalm 145:1-7, 10, 12, 21 I will speak of … thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works … make
known to men his mighty acts

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Acts 12:17 He … declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the
prison
(See also Psalm 37:30; 40:9-10; 71:17; Isaiah 12:4.)
H. Have a sense of humor and be able to laugh:
Proverbs 17:22 A mercy heart doeth good like a medicine (see also Proverbs 15:13,
15.)
Psalm 126:2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter (see also Job 8:21.)
(See also Genesis 21:6; Ecclesiastes 3:4; 10:19.)

2. SILENCE AND RESTRAINED SPEECH:

Ecclesiastes 3:7 [There is] a time to keep silence, and a time to speak
A. The dangers of speaking too much:
Proverbs 10:19 In the multitude of words there wanteth (lacks) not sin
Proverbs 14:23 In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to
penury (poverty)
B. The wisdom of being slow to speak:
James 1:19 Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak
Proverbs 18:13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame
unto him
Ecclesiastes 5:2, 6 Be not rash (hasty) with thy mouth … wherefore should God be
angry … and destroy the work of thine hands?
John 1:8-9 [Example of Jesus avoiding being rushed into answering]
C. It can be wise to speak little:
Proverbs 17:27 He that hath knowledge spareth his words
Ecclesiastes 5:3 A fool’s voice is known by multitude of words (see also Matthew
5:37.)
D. It is often wise not to speak at all:
Job 13:5 O that ye would altogether hold your peace. And it should be your
wisdom
Proverbs 10:19 He that refraineth his lips is wise
Proverbs 11:12 A man of understanding holdeth his peace
Proverbs 17:28 Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that
shutteth lips is … a man of understanding
Proverbs 21:23 Who keepeth … his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles
E. Watch your words:
Psalm 39:1 To … sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle,
while the wicked is before me
Psalm 141:13 Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep … my lips.
Proverbs 13:3 He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life
Mathew 12:36 Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof
in the day of judgement
F. Keeping secrets:
Proverbs 11:13 A talebearer (gossip) revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful
spirit concealeth the matter
Proverbs 25:9 Debate thy cause with thy neighbor himself; and discover (disclose)
not a secret to another
Micah 7:5 Keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom (see
also Judges 14:15-17; 16:4-6, 15:21.)
Matthew 9:30 Jesus straitly charged them … see that no man know it
Matthew 12:14-16 (Jesus) charged them they should not make him known

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Mark 1:43-45 See thou say nothing to any man (see also Matthew 8:4.)
Mark 9:9-10 (Jesus) charged them that they should tell no man what things they
had seen (see also Matthew 17:9; Luke 9:36.)
Luke 8:56 He charged them that they should no man what was done (see also
Mark 5:43.)
Luke 9:20-21 He … commanded them to tell no man that thing (see also Matthew
16:20.)
Acts 23:22 Tell no man that thou hast shewed these things to me (see also
Joshua 2:14, 20.)
G. Learning how to be quiet:
Job 6:24 Teach me, and I will hold my tongue
1 Thessalonians 4:11 Study to be quiet, and to do [mind] your own business
H. The foolish simply cannot keep their mouth shut:
Proverbs 15:2 The mouth of fools poureth forth foolishness
Proverbs 20:3 Honour … to cease … but every fool will be meddling
Proverbs 29:11 A fool uttereth all his mind
3. THE DAMAGE AN UNCONTROLLED TONGUE WILL DO:
A. An uncontrolled tongue will defile you and others:
Matthew 15:11 That which cometh out of the mouth … defileth a man
Matthew 15:18 Those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the
heart; and they defile a man
James 3:5-6 The tongue is … a world of iniquity … it defileth the whole body
A. gossiping tongue is a fire:
James 3:5-6 The tongue is a fire … it setteth on fire … and is set on fire of hell
Proverbs 16:27 Ungodly men … in his lips there is as a burning fire
C. A slanderous, wicked tongue is a deadly poison:
James 3:8 The tongue … is … full of deadly poison
Psalm 140:3 Adder’s poison is under their lips
Ecclesiastes 10:11 The serpent will bite without enchantment; and a babbler is no
better
Romans 3:13 The poison of asps is under their lips
D. A sharp tongue can inflict deep wounds:
Proverbs 12:18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword
Proverbs 25:18 Man that beareth false witness … is a maul, and a sword
Proverbs 26:22 The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the
innermost parts (deep)
E. A malicious tongue destroys and kills:
Proverbs 11:9 An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour
Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue
Proverbs 26:28 A flattering mouth worketh ruin
F. It destroys love friendship:
Proverbs 16:28 A whisper (gossiper) separateth chief friends
Acts 14:2 Made their minds evil affected against the brethren
4. FOOLISH AND EVIL SPEECH:
A. Evil Speech comes from an evil heart:
Proverbs 15:2 The mouth of fools poureth out foolishness
Proverbs 15:28 The mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things
Matthew 12:35 An evil man out of (heart) bringeth forth evil things
B. Evil, foolish speech corrupts and stinks:
Ecclesiastes 10:1 Dead flies … send forth a stinking … so doth a little

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WHAT TO DO WHEN OTHERS SPEAK EVIL OF YOU:
A. Ignore it if you can; don’t be offended:
Ecclesiastes 7; 21-22 Take no heed unto all words spoken … thine own heart
knoweth thou thyself likewise hast cursed others
Psalm 119:165 Great peace have they which love thy (word): and nothing
shall offend them
B. Don’t speak evil of them in return:
1 Peter 2:21-23 Follow (Christ’s) steps … who, when he was reviled, reviled
not again (see also Isaiah 53:7, 9.)
1 Peter 3:9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but
contrariwise blessing
C. Let your works disproves their lies:
Titus 2:7-8 Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; the he that is …
contrary [have] no evil thing to say of you
1 Peter 2:12 Whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may be
your good works, glorify God
1 Peter 2:15 With well doing …put to silence … foolish men
1 Peter 3:16 Having a good (way of life); that, whereas they speak evil of
you … they may be ashamed
D. Jesus remained silent before his accusers:
Isaiah 53:7 He was oppressed … yet he opened not his mouth
Mathew 27:14 (Jesus) answered him (Pilate) to never a word
Luke 23:9 He (Herod) questioned him (Jesus) in many words; but he
answered him nothing
Luke 22:67, 68 [Jesus knew that to answer hi enemies was pointless]
E. But there are times to speak out and give answer:
Acts 21:40 [Paul gave his defense to the mob in Jerusalem]
Acts 24:10 [Paul defended himself from his accusers before Felix]
Acts 26:1 [Paul’s self-defense before Governor Festus and Agrippa]
1 Peter 3:15 Be ready always to give an answer to every man that
[sincerely]
11. ARGUMENTS AND CONTENTIONS:
A. Avoid getting drawn into argument:
Proverbs 17:14 Leave off contention, before it be meddled with
Proverbs 26:4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like
unto him
Proverbs 29:11 A wise man keepeth [his comments] in till afterwards
Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife
2 Timothy 2:24 The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be patients
1 Peter 3:9 Not rendering evil (insult) for (insult), or railing (reviling) for
(reviling): but contrariwise blessing (see also 2 Kings 18:36)
B. Listen carefully and think about what you say:
Proverbs 15:28 The heart of the righteous studieth to answer

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Proverbs 18:13 He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly
and shame unto him
James 1:19 Be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath
C. Don’t get provoke and answer rashly:
Proverbs 15:18 He that is slow to anger appeaseth strife
Proverbs 16:32 He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty
Proverbs 25:8 Go not forth hastily to strive
Proverbs 29:20 Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? There is more
hope of a fool than of him
Ecclesiastes 5:2 Be not rash with thy mouth [nor] hasty to utter anything …
let thy words be few
D. Speak calmly:
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath
Proverbs 22:11 For the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend
E. Whatcause argument and contention:
Proverbs 10:12 Hatred stirreth up strifes
Proverbs 13:10 Only by pride cometh contention
Proverbs 15:1 Grievous words stir up anger
Proverbs 15:18 A wrathful manstirreth up strife
Proverbs 18:6 A fool’s lips enter into contention
Proverbs 26:21 As wood to fire; so a contentious man (kindles) strife
Proverbs 28:25 He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife
Proverbs 29:22 An angry man stirreth up strife
Acts 13:45 They were filled with envy, and spake against those things …
contradicting and blaspheming
1 Timothy 6:4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions
and … words, whereof cometh … strife
James 4:1 Wars and fighting … come …of your lusts (see also Proverbs
26:17.)
F.The futility of arguing:
Job 6:25 How forcible are right words! But what doth your arguing
reprove?
Proverbs 9:7-8 He that rreproveth a scorner getteth to himself … shame …
reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee
Proverbs 23:9 Speak not in the ears of a fool: he will despise wisdom
Proverbs 29:9 If a wise man contendeth with a foolish man, whether he (the
foolish man) rage or laugh, there is no rest
G. Ending an argument:
Proverbs 17:9 He that covereth (lets pass) a transgression seeketh love
Proverbs 20:3 It is an honour for a man to cease from strife
Proverbs 22:10 Cast out the scorner, and contention shall … cease
Colossians 3:13 Forbearing (putting up with) one another, and forgiving one
another, if any man have a quarrel against any
(See also Genesis 50:20-21)
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H. Warning to those who “love a good argument”:
Proverbs 17:9 He loveth transgression that loveth strife
1 Corinthians 3:3 Whereas there is among you … strife … are you ye not carnal,
and walk as [carnal, worldly] men
James 3:14-15 If ye have bitter … strife in your hearts, glory not … this
wisdom is devilish
I. The bad fruit of arguments:
Psalm 106:33 They provoked his (Moses’) spirit, so that he spake
unadvisedly with his lips
Proverbs 18:19 A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city …
contentions are like bars of a castle
Acts 15:39 The contentions was so sharp between them, that they
departed asunder one from another
Galatians 5:15 If ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not
consumed one of another
James 3:16 Where … strife is, there is confusion and every evil work
J. When it is right to contend:
Proverbs 26:5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his
own conceit
Proverbs 28:4 Such as keep the law contend with (the wicked)
Proverbs28:23 He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour
than he that flattereth
Acts 15:1-2 “except ye be circumcised, ye cannot be saved” Paul … had no
small dissension and disputation with them
Jude 1:3 Ye should earnestly contend for the faith
K. Humbly explain to, correct and instruct the receptive:
Galatians 6:1 Restore such as one in the spirit of meekness
2 Timothy2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves
(See also James 5:20)
1 Peter3:15 Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh
you a reason … with meekness
12. LYING, DECIEVING, AND BEARING FALSE WITNESS:
A. God’s Word warns us not to lie:
Leviticus 19:11 Neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another
Proverbs 24:28 Be not a witness against thy neighbour without cause; and
deceive not with thy lips
Ephesians 4:25 Putting away lying, speak every man truth with his
neighbour
Colossians 3:9 Lie not to one another, seeing ye have put off the old man
with his deeds
B. What God thinks about lying:
Proverbs 12:22 Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord
C. God’s judgment on wicked liars:
Psalm63:11 The mouth of the them that speak lies shall be stopped
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Proverbs 19:5 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh
lies shall not escape
Proverbs 19:9 He that speaketh lies shall perish
Acts5:1-10 [Ananias and Sapphiralies to the Holy Ghost and died]
(See also Psalm 31:18; 35:11-20; Provebs 12:19)
Special chapter about the tongue: James 3

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 UNITY
1. UNITY OR DISUNITY?
A. The lord wants us to have unity:
Psalm 133:1 How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity
1 Corinthians 1:10 I beseech you … that there be no division among you, but … be perfectly
joined together in the same mind
2 Corinthians 13:11 Be ye of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be
with you
Philippians 1:27 Stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together
B. What He thinks of disunity:
Proverbs 6:16-19 These … doth the Lord hate: (they) are an abomination unto him: he
thatsoweth discord among brethren
James 3:14-15 But if ye have … strife in your hearts, glory not … this descendeth not
from above, but is devilish

2. HOW TO WORK AT KEEPING UNITED:

Ephesians 4:3 Endeavoringto keep the unity of the spirit
A. Have the Word as a unifying standard:
1 Corinthians 14:37 Let him acknowledge that the things I write are the commandments of
the Lord
Philippians 3:16 Let us work by the same rule … mind the same thing
1 Thessalonians 2:13-14 Ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye … became
followers
B. Be agreeable and likeminded:
Romans 15:5-6 God … grant you to be likeminded one toward another … that ye may
with one mind and one mouth glorify God
Romans 12:16 Be of the same mind one toward another … condescend to men of low
estate
1 Corinthians 1:10 I beseech you … that ye all speak the same thing
Philippians 2:2 Be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind
(see also Acts 2:46; Philippians 4:2)
C. Be at peace with fellow-workers:
Romans 14:19 Let us follow after the things which make for peace, and things
wherewith one may edify another
1 Thessalonians 5:13 Be at peace among yourselves
D. Have love and concern for one another:
Proverbs 10:12 Hatred strreth up srifes: but love covereth all sins
Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned with brotherly love; in honor preferring one
another (see also 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8)
1 Corinthians 12:25-26 There should be no schism in the body; but the members should have
the same care one for another
Ephesians 4:16 The whole body fitly joined together … maketh increase of the body
unto theedifying of itself in love
E. Be kind, gentle and courteous to one another:
Ephesians 4:32 Be ye kind … tenderhearted, forgiving one another
2 Timothy 2:24 Not strive … be gentle unto all men, patient
1 Peter 3:8 Be ye all of one mind, having compassion … love as brethren, be pitiful
(sympathetic), be courteous
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1 Corinthians 11:33 When ye come together to eat, tarry one for another (see also Romans
14:2-21.)
F. Take people where they‘re at:
Romans 14:1 Him that is weak in the faith receivesye, but not to doubtful disputations
(see also Romans 14:2-21.)
G. Avoid 0offending people:
1 Corinthians 10:32-33 Give none offence, neither … to the church of God … I please all men in
all things
Proverbs 18:19 Brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city
H. Be careful what you say:
Proverbs 17:9 He that repeateth a matter separateth very friends
2 Timothy 2:23 Foolish questions avoid … they do gender strifes
Titus 3:2 Speak evil of no man … gentle … meekness unto all men (see also James
3:16-17; Ecclesiastes 5:2.)
I. Control your temper; be slow to speak:
Proverbs 14:29 He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath
Proverbs 15:18 He that is slow to anger appeaseth strife
Proverbs 25:8 Go not forth hastily to strife [with thy neighbor]
Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through srife or vainglory
James 1:19 Let every man be … slow to speak, slow to wrath (see also Proverbs
3:30; 26:17.)
J. Humbly discuss disagreements with elders:
1 Timothy 5:1 Rebuke not an elder, but entreat him as a father
K. Sort out frictions before doing anything else:
Mathew 5:23-24 First be reconciled to thy brother, then … offer gift
Mark 11:25 When … praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any
James 5:9 Grudge not one against another, lest ye be condemned
L. Avoid being partial or playing favorites:
1 Timothy 5:21 (Not) preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality(see also
James 3:7.)
James 2:1 Have not the faith of Jesus … with respect of persons
M. Value peace above selfish interests:
Romans 14:19-21 Let us follow after the things which make for peace
Romans 12; 18 As much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men (see also 1
Corinthians 6:7; Philippians 2:4.)
N. Share unselfishly with others:
Acts 4:32 And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one
soul … they had all things common (see also 1 Corinthians 8:9.)
O. Return good for evil:
Mathew 5:44 Love your enemies, bless them that curse you
Romans 12:21 Overcome evil with good
1 Thessalonians 5:15 See that none render evil for evil … among yourselves
P. Retaliation forbidden:
(See Leviticus 19:18; proverbs 20:22; 24:29, Romans 12:17, 19, 1 Peter 3:9.)
3. THE FRIUT OF UNITY:
A. Working together for a common goal:

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2 Kings 10:15 Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thine heart? If it be, give me
thine hand
Amos 3:3 Can two walk [or work] together, except they be agreed?
Mathew 18:19-20 Where two or three are gathered in my name (Jesus), there am I in the
midst of them
Acts 2:14 Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his love
Philippians 1:27 With one mind, striving together for … the gospel
B. There is strength in unity:
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are better than one … for if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow
Ecclesiastes 4:12 If one [a foe] prevail against him, two shall withstand [the foe], and
three-fold cord is not … broken
Judges 20:11 The men [army] were gathered against the city, knit together as one
man
1 Samuel 14:6-7 Jonathan said, Let us go over. His armourbearer said, Behold I am with
thee according to thy heart (see also Nehemiah 4:16-17.)
C. Good fruit of united outreach:
Acts 2:1-2, 41 [Believers] all with one accord in one place [were filled with the spirit,
witnessed, and 3, 000 souls were saved]
4. UNITY OF BELIEVERS IN JESUS:
A. Jesus’ prayer that we be united as one:
John 17:11,21 That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that
they also may be one in us
John 17:22-23 That they may one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that
they may be made perfect in one
B. We should be one body, working together unitedly:
Romans 12:5 We, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of
another
1 Corinthians 12:12-13 All the members of one body, being many, are one body (see also 1
Corinthians 10:17.)
1 Corinthians 12:27 Ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular
Ephesians 2:22 Ye are builded together … through the spirit (see also Ephesians 1:10;
2:19-21; 4:11-12; 1 Corinthians 12:4-16.)
Colossians 1:17-18 (Jesus) is head of our body (see also 1 Corinthians 3:9; 2 Corinthians
6:1.)
C. Jesus’ spirit gives us peace with one another:
1 Corinthians 14:33 God is the author … of peace, as in all churches
2 Corinthians 13:11 Brethren … live in peace; God of peace shall be with you
Galatians 5:22 The fruit of the spirit is … peace
Ephesians 2:14 He is our peace … hath broken down the wall between
Colossians 2:2 Your hearts comforted, being knit together in love
D. There should be no division because of race or sex:
1 Corinthians 12:13 Whether Jews or Gentiles [we] have been all made to drink into one
spirit
Galatians 3:26,28 Neither Jew nor Greek … male or female: for ye are all one in Jesus
E. Or social or financial status:
1 Corinthians 12:13 Whether … bond or free, (we) all have been made … one
Galatians 3:28 Neither bond free … for ye are all one in Jesus
5. CAUSES OF DISUNITY:

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A. PRIDE AND LUST:
Proverbs 13:10 Only by pride cometh contention
Proverbs 28:25 He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife
James 4:1-3 Whence come fighting among you? From your lusts
B. Not walking in the spirit:
1 Corinthians 3:3 Ye are carnal: there is among you strife and divisions
Galatians 5:19-21 Works of the flesh: hatred, wrath, strifes
C. III feeling and hatred:
Proverbs 10:12 Hatred sirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins
Proverbs 16:28 A forward man soweth strife, and a whisperer separateth
Proverbs 26:24 He that hatethdissembleth with his lips
D. Envy and jealousy:
Roman 13:13 Let us walk honestly … not in … strife and envying
1 Corinthians13:4 Love … envieth not; love vaunteth not itself
Galatians 5:26 Let us not be desirious of vain glory, provoking one another, envying
one another
James 3:14-16 If ye have bitter envying … is, there is … every evil work (see also
Proverbs 14:30; 27:4; Galatians 5:19-21; Titus 3:3.)
E. Favoritism and partiality:
Acts 6:1 There arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because
their widows were neglected
F. Self-exaltation and desire for leadership:
Numbers 12:1-15 [Miriam and Aaron rebel against Moses, desiring power]
Numbers 16:1-35 [Korah rebels against Moses, desiring leadership]
Luke 22:24 There was a strife among them, (who) should be greatest
Acts 20:30 Of your own selves shall men arise … to draw away disciples after them
Galatians 5:26 Let us not desire vain glory, provoking … one another
3 John 1:9-11 Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them receiveth
us not
G. Arguing over minor doctrines and theorizing:
1 Timothy 6:3-5 Knowing nothing, doting about question and strifes of words, whereof
cometh … strife
H. Bitterness:
Hebrews 12:15 Lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many
be defiled
I. Anger and quick temper:
Proverbs 15:18 A wrathful man stirreth up strife
Proverbs 29:22 An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man
J. Repeating things we know we should’t:
Proverbs 17:9 He that repeateth a matter separateth very friends
Proverbs 26:20 Where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth (see also James 1:26.)
K. Inability to stop arguing:
Proverbs 20:3 It is an honor to case from strife: but every fool will be meddling
Proverbs 17:14 The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water … leave off
contention

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6. RESULT OF DISUNITY:
A. Not being able to work together:
Amos 3:3 Can two work together, except they be agreed?
Acts 15:36-40 Contention so sharp [between Paul and Barnabas] that they departed
asunder [and went separate ways]
B. It destroys God’s work:
Mathew 12:25 Every house divided against itself … shall not stand
Mark 3:24 If kingdom be divided against itself … cannot stand (see also Numbers
32:1-7.)

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 THE CHRISTIAN’S RELATIONSHIP
TO WORLDLY SOCIETY

3. OUR ATTITUDE TOWARD WORLDLY VALUES:

A. Caution not to love this present world:
James 4:4 The friendship of the world is enmity with God
1 John 3:15-16 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world

B. The Pilgrim’s Attitude:

1 Peter 2:11 As strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshy (worldly) lusts, which war
against the soul.
Titus 2:12-13 Denying ungodliness and worldly lusts … live soberly … in his present
world; looking for that blessed hope.
Hebrews 11:24-27 Moses … choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God …
forsook Egypt.
James 1:27 Pure religion … to keep unspotted from the world
1 Peter 1:17 (God) judgeth … every man’s work, (so) pass the time of your sojourning
here in fear.
2 Peter 3:11, 14 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of
persons ought ye to be.
1 John 2:16-17 The lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes … is of the world. And the
world passeth away.

C. We should resist being influenced by trends, fads, and media:

Exodus 23:2 Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil
Romans 12:2 Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed
1 Corinthians 7:31 The fashion of this world passeth away
Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through … vain deceit

D. Warning against indiscriminate worldly entertainment:

Psalm 101: 3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes
Psalm 119:37 Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity
Isaiah 33:15 He that walketh righteously … shutteth his eyes from seeing evil
2 Kings 17:15 They followeth vanity, and became vain, and went after the heathen
that were round about them.

E. The detrimental effect of this wicked world on believers:

2 Peter 2:7-8 Lot … in seeing and hearing (the inhabitants of Sodom), vexed
(tormented) his righteous sould … with their unlawful deeds.
2 Peter 3:17 Beware lest ye also, being led away with error of the wicked, fall from
steadfastness .

F. Peer pressure and influence:

2 Kings 12:3-16 (King Rehoboam foolish followed the counsel of) the young men that
were grown up with him.

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G. Don’ts compromises or tolerate ungodly ways:
Exodus 23:32 Make no covenant with them, nor with their gods
Exodus 23:33 They shall not dwell in they land … for if thou serve their gods, it will
surely be a snare unto thee.
1 Timothy 5:22 Neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep … pure

H. Avoid wanton parties and activities:

Romans 13:13-14 Not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering (Licentiousness) …
fulfill (not) lusts
1 Peter 4:3-4 (We are not to undulge in drunken parties and reveling ) (see also
Ephesians 2:2, 3: Titus 2:12).
i. But don’t go to the opposite extreme:
Mathew 9:9-13 (The self-righteous demanded:) Why eateth your master with publicans
and sinners.
I Corinthians 10:27 (We can accept invitations to banquets and feasts)

4. IF POSSIBLE, LIVE PEACEFUL WITH OTHERS IN ORDER TO WIN THEM TO THE LORD:
A. Peaceable relations with other are preferable:
Romans 12:18 As much as lieth in (depend upon) you, live peaceable with all men.
Proverbs 16:7 Lord … maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him
Jeremiah 29:7 Seek the peace of the city … and pray unto the Lord for it: for in the
peace thereof shall ye have peace.
Mathew 8:25 Agree with thine adversary quickly … lest at any time
Colossians 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without
1Timothy 2:1-2 (Pray) that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life.

B. Try to relate to their way of thinking, in order to win them:

1 Corinthian 9:19-22 Unto the Jews I became as Jew, that I might gain Jews I am made all
things to all men.
1 Corinthian 10:32 Give none offence, neither to Jews nor to Gentiles.
1 Corinthian 10:33 I please all men … that they may be saved.

C. Identify with them by giving your background and credentials:

Acts 22 : 3 I am a man … brought up in this city … taught according to the law of
the fathers … as ye all are
Acts 21:39 I am … of Tarsus, a citizen of no mean city. (See also Acts 16:36-38;
22:25-28)

5. CAUTIONS AGAINST COMPROMISING WITH THE WORLD:

Galatians 1:10 Do I seek to please men? if I yet pleased men, I should not be the
servant of Christ.
A. Caution against pleasing to the point of compromising

Luke 6:26 Woe unto you, when all men speak well of you
2 Kings 5:17-18 In this thing the Lord pardon they servant, that … I bow myself in the
house of Rimmon (a heathen god).

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B. We should stand up for; and not be ashamed of, our faith;
Mark 8:38 Whosoever shall be ashamed of me an of my words in this … sinful
generation; of him shall (I) be ashamed.
Romans 1:16 I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ.
2 Timothy 1:8 Be not thou ashamed of the testimony of our Lord
1Peter 4:16 If any suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed.
C. We are not of this world, and it hates us for that:
Luke 6:22 Men … shall separate you from their company, and reproach.
John 15:18-19 Because ye are not of the world … world hateth you.
1 Peter 4:4 If any suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed.
6. THE IMPORTANCE OF AN HONEST, SINCERE EXAMPLE:
A. Be a good example:
Mathew 5:16 Let your light so shine … that they may see your good
Romans 13:3 Do … good, and thou shalt have praise of the (rulers)
1 Thessalonica 5 : 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil
1 Timothy 4:12 Be thou and example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in
charity (love)
1 Peter 2:13-14 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake … for
the praise of them.
1 Peter 2:15 With well doing … put to silence ignorance of foolish
Luke 6:27 Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you.

B. We are commanded to be honest in our dealings:

Romans 12:17 Provide things honest in the sight of all men
2 Corinthians 8:21 Provide for honest things … in the sight of men
1 Thessalonica 4:12 Walk honestly toward them that are without
Titus 2:10 Not purloining (stealing, pilfering), but showing all good fidelity
1 Peter 2:12 Having your (way of life) honest among the Gentiles (See also Romans
13:13; Hebrews 13:18)
C. Do not bring reproach upon the cause of Christ:
Romans 14:16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of
2 Corinthians 6:3 Giving none offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed.

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 PERSECUTION

1. PERSECUTION PROMISED TO ALL FOLLOWERS OF JESUS:

2 TIMOTHY 3:12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution
Philippians 1:29 Given not only to believe on him, but also to suffer
Mathew 10:17 Beware of men: they will deliver you up… scourge
Mathew24:9 Deliver you up…ye shall be hated of all nations
Mark 10:30 Shall receive an hundredfold now… with persecutions
Luke 21:12 They shall lay their hands on you and be persecute you
John 15:20 If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you

2. BENEFITS OF PERSECUTION:
A. Heavenly rewards for enduring persecution:
Mathew 5:10 Blessed are … persecuted … for theirs is the kingdom
Romans 8:17-18 Sufferings … not worthy to be compared with the glory
2 Corinthians 4:17 Affliction … worketh for us … eternal weight of glory
2 Corinthians 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with him
Hebrews 11:25-26 Choosing to suffer affliction … respect, unto reward
Hebrews 11:35 Tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better
resurrection.
1Peter 4:12-13 Fiery trial … when his glory revealed, ye may be glad.

B. The Lord is with and helps those in persecution:

Psalm 37:32-33 The Lord will not leave him (the righteous) in his (the wicked) hand
Psalm 46:1 God is … a very present help in trouble
Isaiah 50:7-9 The Lord God will help me … who is mind adversary?
Mathew 10:18-20 Brought before governors … it shall be given you what ye shall speak …
(God’s) Spirit speaketh in you.
Acts 7:55 (Stephen) saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing
Romans 8:35-39 Persecution (can’t) separate us from the love of God
2 Corinthians 4:8-11 Persecuted, but not forsaken
Hebrews 13:5-6 The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
I Peter 4:14 If ye be reproached for Christ … Spirit of glory and God resteth upon
you.

D. God allows it to spread His message and messengers:

Mathew 10:23 When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another
Acts 8:1,4 Scattered … went everywhere preaching the word
Acts 11:19 Scattered … travelled as far as Cyprus, preaching
E. When condemning God’s messengers, enemies often broadcast God’s message – thus arousing
interest I it.
John 19:4-8 The Jews answered, “(Jesus) ought to die, because he made himself the
Son of God”
Acts 17:5-7 These (say) there is another king, one Jesus
Acts 19:23-26 This Paul persuaded … saying that (idols) be no gods
Acts 24:14 This I confess … the way which they call heresy, so worship I God.
Acts 25:18-19 (Paul’s) accusers … had questions against him of Jesus, which was dead,
whom Paul affirmed to be alive.
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Acts 28:22 Everywhere (this sect) is spoken against … but we desire to hear of thee,
what thou thinkest.
Philippians 1:15-18 Notwithstanding … Christ is preached.

F. The Word preached even in imprisonment:

Jeremiahs 38:13-18 (King Zedekiah consulted with imprisoned Jeremiah)
Mathew 10:18-20 Brought before governors and kings for a testimony
Acts 16:23-31 (Philippians jailor converted after earthquake )
Acts 28:16 (In bonds, Paul preached in Rome) (See also 28:30-31)
Philippians 1:12-14 (In bonds, Paul converts Caesar’s household) (See also Philippians 4:22)

G. God gets good out of seeming bad:

Genesis 50:20 Ye thought evil … but God meant it to good
Exodus 14:1-28 (God hardened Pharaoh’s heart to pursue the Hebrews, so that his
entire army drowned and empire collapsed).
Psalm 76:10

3 ATTITUDE TO HAVE DURING PERSECUTION:

A. Be fearless and unmovable:
Mathew 10: 28 Fear not them which kill the body
Jeremiah 1:17-19 Be not dismayed … they shall fight … but I am with thee
Ezekiel 3:8-9 Fear them not, neither be dismayed at their looks
Acts 20:24 None of these … move me, neither count I my life dear
1 Thessalonians 3:3 That no man should be moved by these afflictions … we are appointed
thereunto.
1 Peter 2:20 When ye do well, and suffer for it … take it patiently
Revelation 12:11 And they loved not their lives unto the death (See also Philippians 1:14)

B. Have joy in persecution:

Mathew 5: 12 Rejoice and be exceeding glad … for so persecuted
Luke 6:22-23 When men hate you … leap for joy
Acts 5-40-41 Rejoicing they were counted worthy to suffer shame
Romans 5:3 We glory in tribulations
2 Thessalonians 1:4 We glory In you for your patience and faith in all your persecution and
tribulations that ye endure
1 Peter 3:14 If ye suffer for righteousness” sake, happy are ye
1 Peter 4:12-14 If ye be reproached for….Christ, happy are ye
C. Do not be ashamed:
1 Peter 4:16 If any suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed
Isaiah 50:7 I set my face like a flint… i shall not be ashamed

D. Willing for a righteous cause

Jeremiah 15:15 for the sake I have suffered rebuke
Mathew 5:10 Blessed are they…… persecuted for righteousness’ sake
2 Corinthians 12:10 I take pleasure in persecutions..for Christ’s sake
2 Thessalonians 1:5 Counted worthy of kingdom of God ..for which ye suffer
1 Peter 2:19 for conscience toward God… suffering wrongfully
E. Example of enduring persecution courageously:

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  Jeremiah (Jeremiah 26:11-5 )
 Paul and his companions (1 Corinthians 4:12b)
 Paul (2corinthians 6:4-5-8-10; 2corinthians 11:23-27)
 Timothy (2 timothy 1:8)
 Early Christians (Hebrews 10:32-33)
 Moses (Hebrews 11:25)
 Old and new testament saints (Hebrews 11:35-40)

F. Faithfulness to truth, despite persecution:

Psalm 119:51 Proud have me… in derision, yet have I not declined
Psalm 119:86-87 They persecuted me wrongfully; they almost consumed mw… but I forsook not
Thy precepts
Psalm 119:157 Many are my persecutors… yet I do not decline
Revelation 2:10 Thou holdest fast… and hast not denied my faith, even in those days Wherein…
my martyr was slain
G. Endure persecution because of love for the lost:
2 Timothy 2:10 I endure all things for the elect’ sake, that they may obtain salvation (see also
john 10:11.)
Hebrews 5:7-9 he suffered for us… became the author of eternal salvation
1 Peter 2:21 Christ suffered for us… ye should follow his steps

H. Example of men of God imprisoned for their faith:

 Old testament saints (Hebrews 11:36)
 Samson (1 kings 22:26-27)
 Micaiah (1 kings 22:26-27)
 Hanani (2 Chronicles 16:10)
 Jeremiah(Jeremiah 37:11-16)
 Daniel(Daniel 6:16-17)
 John the Baptist (Mathew14:3-4)
 Peter and john(Acts 4:1-3)
 Apostles (Acts 5:16-18)
 Men and woman Christian in Jerusalem (Acts 8:3, 9:1-2, 14; 22:4-5, 19; 26:10)
 Peter (Act 12:1-4)
 Paul and Silas (acts 16:22-24)
 Paul’s imprisonment (2 Corinthians 11:23)
 Paul’s final imprisonment (acts 24:27; 26:29’ 28:16)

4. REASON WHY PERSECUTORS ATTACK CHRISTIANS:

A. Their goal is to stop the witness:
Jeremiah 11:21 prophesy not… that thou die not by our hand
John 11:47-48,53 if we let him alone, all men will believe on him. Then they took counsel to put
him to death
Acts 4:17 that it spread no further… let ud threaten them
(see also Revelation 6:9’ 11:7.)
B. Wicked men hate the righteous:
Galatians 4:29 he that was born after the flesh persecuted him
Psalm 38:20 they are adversaries; because I follow…good
Proverbs 29:27 he that is upright is abomination to the wicked

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Isaiah 59:15 he that departed from evil market himself a prey
Acts 7:52 Which of The Prophet have not your father’s persecuted?
1peter 4:3-4 {righteous despised for not joining drunken parties}
1 John 3:12 Cain slew {Abel} because his own works were evil

B. Because truth is a witness against evil:

John 7:7 it (the world) hated me (Jesus), because I testify of it
1 Kings 22:17-27 [Messiah Imprisoned For Prophesying the Truth]
2 Chronicles 16:7-10 [Asa imprisons Hanani for prophesying against him]
2 Chronicles 24:20-21 [king has Zechariah stoned for rebuking the people]
Jeremiah 32:2-3[Jeremiah imprisoned for prophesying the truth]
Amos 5:10 the abhor him the speaketh uprightly
Acts 6:10-15 [Stephen stoned for rebuking Jews](see also acts 7:51-60)
Revelation 1:9 [john exiled to Patmos for preaching the word ]
(see also Revelation 12:17; 20:4.)
D. Ignorance of the truth:
Acts 3:13-14 I wot that ignorance ye did it (see also 3:17.)
1 timothy 1:13 (I) was a persecutor… I did it ignorantly in unbelief

E. Do not truly know God:

John 5:18, 38, 42 Ye have not his word … ye have not the love of God
John 8:37 Ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place
John 15:21 They (persecutors) know not him (God) that sent me
John 15:24 Now have they … hated both me and my Father
John 16:3 Because they have not known the Father, nor me
Acts 13:27-28 They knew him not … nor yet the voice of prophets
F. Self- righteous misguided religious zeal:
John 16:2 Whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God services (see also Isaiah
66:5)
Acts 13:50 Jews stirred up the devout and honorable women
Acts 21:27-32 Men of Israel, help: This is the man that teacheth
Acts 22:3-4 Zealous … I persecuted this way unto the death
Acts 23:12-14 [40 men vowed and conspired to kill Paul]
Acts 26:9-11 I thought I ought to do many things contrary to Jesus
Galatians 1:13-14 Persecuted … being exceedingly zealous of traditions
Philippians 3:6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the Church
G For breaking religious tradition and doctrines:
Matthew 12:10-14 Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath days?
John 5:16 [Angry Jews seek to kill Jesus for healing on Sabbath]
John 10:31-33 For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy
H. Religious jealousy and fear of competition:
Matthew 27:18 For he knew that for envy they had delivered him
Mark 11:18 Feared him, because people astonished at his doctrine
Acts 13:44-45 When the Jews saw the multitude … filled with assaulted

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I. Because we belong to the world:
John 15:19 Because ye are not of world … the world hateth you
John 17:14 World hated them, because they are not of the world
1 John 4:5-6 They are of the world … we are of God

J. Persecution by corrupt rich:

Acts 19:23-27 By this we have our wealth … but Paul persuaded
James 2:6-7 Rich men oppress, draw you before judgement seat
Revelation 17:1-6, 18 That great city … drunken with the blood of saints

K. Wickedness, pride:
Psalm10:2 The wickedin his pride doth persecute the poor
Psalm 74:22 The foolish man reproacheth thee daily
Psalm 119:69 The proud have forged a lie against me

L. For refusing to compromise faith:

Daniel 3:14-20 We will not serve thy god, nor worship the … image
Daniel 6:4-5 [Jealous princes accuse Daniel regarding his faith

M. For refusing to worship the Antichrist and his image:

Revelation 13:14-17 As many as would not worship the image … be killed
Revelation 20:4 Beheaded … had not worshipped the beast

N. For no valid reason at all:

Psalm 119:86 They persecute me wrongfully
Psalm 119:161 Princes have persecuted me without a cause
John 15:25 They hated me without a cause (see also psalm 69:4)

5. HOW: PERSECUTORS USUALLY BEING WITH VERBAL ATTACKS:

A. Slander, infamy, lies:
Psalm 69:9-12 I became a proverb to them … they speak against me
Psalm 119:51 The proud have had me greatly in derision
Matthew 5:11 Men shall revile you … and say all manner of evil
Luke 6:22 Men shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil
Luke 22:63-65 Men that held Jesus mocked him … blasphemously spake
Acts 14:2 Made their minds evil affected against the brethren
Acts 28:22 This sect … everywhere it is spoken against
1 Corinthians 4:13 Defamed … we are made as the filth of the world (see also psalm 35:16,21)

B. Persecutors twist words to defame:

Isaiah 29:21 Make a man an offender of a word … lay a snare

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Isaiah 56:5 Every day they wrest my words … their thoughts evil
Matthew 22:15 Took counsel how they might entangle him in his talk
Mark 12:13 They send Pharisees … to catch him in his words
Luke 11:53, 54 Seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him
Luke 20:20 Take hold of his words … deliver him to the governor

C. Lying accusations and false charge:

Psalm 35:11 False witnesses … laid to my charge things I knew not
Matthew 26:59-61 Chief priests … sought false witness against Jesus
Luke 23:2 We found this fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute (pay
taxes)
Luke 23:5 [Sedition] He stirreth up the people
Jeremiah 38:4 [Treason] seeketh not the welfare … but the hurt
Acts 6:11-13 We have heard him speak blasphemous words
Acts 16:19-21 These men exceedingly trouble city … teach customs
Acts 17:5-7 These … do contrary to the decrees of Caesar
Acts 18:12-13 Persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law
Acts 24:5 Pestilent, mover of sedition, ringleader of sect
2 Timothy 2:8-9 I suffer trouble as an evil doer, even unto bonds (see also Psalm 94:20)

D. Character assassination:
Luke 7:34 Behold a gluttonous man and s wine-bibber
Luke 7:12 Nay; but he deceiveth the people
John 9:24 We know that this man (Jesus) is a sinner

E. Accusation of being ‘’of the Devil’’:

Matthew 10:24-25 They called (Jesus) “Beelzebub”, how much more (us)
Matthew 9:34 He casteth out devils through the prince of devils
Mark 3:22 He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils
John 10:20 Many said, he hath a devil … why hear ye him?

F. Charges of religious insanity:

Mark 3:21 Went to lay hold on him: said, He is beside himself
Acts 26:24 Much learning [of the scriptures] doth make thee mad

G. Persecution through fear of society’s disapproval:

John 9:22 Parent feared Jews: for Jews had agreed that if any
John 12:42 [Some believing] chief rulers … did not confess him, lest they be put out of the
synagogue

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6. PERSECUTION FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS:

Jeremiah 12:6 Thy brethren … have called a multitude after thee

Matthew 10:21 Brother shall deliver up the brother to death
Matthew 10:35-36 A man’s foes shall be they of his own household
Mark 3:21 Friends … went out to lay hold on him
Luke 12:51-53 There shall be five in one house divided
Luke 21:16 Ye shall be betrayed by parents, brethren, friends
John 7:1-5 [Jesus’ brothers taunt Him to endanger His life]
1 Thessalonians 2:14-16 Ye also have suffered … of your own countrymen
Mark 6:4 Prophet is …. Without honour among kin, and in own house (see also Micha 7:2;
John 1:11.)

7. THE WORLD PERSECUTED AND REJECTED JESUS:

A. Evil plots and persecution against Jesus:
Matthew 12:14 Held council against him, how they might destroy him
Matthew 26:3-4Consulted that they might take him subtilty and kill
Luke 4:28-29 Led him unto the hill … that they might cast him down
Luke 6:17 Filled with madness; and communed what they might do
Luke 19:47 Chief priests and scribes … sought to destroy him
John 5:16 Therefore did Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay
John 11:57 Given commandment, if any man knew where he were (see also Luke 20:20)

B. Look to Jesus’ example of suffering persecution:

Hebrew 12:2-4 Consider him who endured such contradiction
Isaiah 53:3, 7-8 Despised and rejected of men … afflicted … cut off
John 15:18 The world … hated me before it hated you
John 15:20 If they have persecuted me, they will persecute you
Hebrew 13:13 Let us go forth unto him … bearing his reproach
1 Peter 2:21-23 Christ suffered for us, leaving us an example
1 Peter 4:1 Christ suffered … arm yourself with the same mind
C. When persecuting Christians, they persecute Jesus:
Matthew 25:40 Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these … ye have done it
unto me
Acts 9:1-5 Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
Zechariah 2:8 He that toucheth you tuocheth the apple of his eye
Acts 5:38-39 Refrain from these men … lest ye fight against God

8. COMPROMISING, FLEEING, AND AVOIDING PERSECUTION:

A. Bad example of compromising to avoid persecution:
2 Kings 5:15, 17-18 [Naaman believed in God, but to save his position and life, bowed down to the
pagan idol of Rimmon]

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Luke 6:26 Woe unto you, when all men speak well of you
John 12:42 Rulers … did not confess him, lest they be put out
Galatians 6:12 Lest they suffer persecution for cross of Christ

B. Feeling from persecution (discretion, not cowardice):

Matthew 10:23 When they persecute you in this city, flee ye to another
1Kings 19:2-3 [Elijah fled from the wicked queen Jezebel]
Jeremiah 26:20-21 [Urijah fled from king Jehoiakim to Egypt]
Jeremiah 36:19-26 Go, hide thee … and let no man know where ye be
Matthew 2:13-14 Arise, and take the young child … and flee into Egypt
Matthew 12:14-15 When Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence
John 7:1 He would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews
John 10:39-40 They sought again to take him: but he escaped
John 11:53-54 He walked no more openly among the Jews; but went
Acts 9:23-25 Took (Paul) by night, and let him down in a basket
Acts 14:5-6 An assault made … they were aware of it, and fled
Acts 17:5-10 Assaulted … brethren sent away Paul and Silas by night
Acts 17:13-14 Jews … stirred up to people … brethren sent away Paul
Acts 23:12-35 [470 Romans soldiers helped Paul flee a conspiracy]

C. Pray to avoid persecution, if possible:

2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 Pray … that we may be delivered from wicked men
1 Timothy 2:1-2 Prayers … that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life
D. Use wisdom to avoid stirring up unnecessary persecution:
Matthew 5:25 Agree with thine adversary quickly … lest he deliver
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath
Proverbs 16:7 When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace
with him
Romans 12:18-21 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men … overcome
evil with good

9. GOD WILL JUDGE YOUR PERSECUTORS:

A. The Psalmist’s Prayers for the Lord to protect His people and judge their enemies:
(See psalm 3:all; 5:8-12; 6:10; 7:all; 9:3-5,9-10,13-20; 10:all; 12:all 13:all; 17:4-15; 18:37-50; 21:7-13;
23:5; 27:1-6,11-14;
28:all; 31:all; 34;1-7; 35:all; 37:all; 38:12-22; 40:13-17; 41:5-11; 43:all; 52:all; 53:1-5; 54:all; 55:1-9,18,23;
56:all; 57:1-6; 58:all; 62:1-8; 63:8-11; 64:all; 68:1-3; 69:4,22-30; 70:all; 71:4,10-13; 82:3-4; 83:1-4,12-18;
94:1-7,16,21-23; 105:12-15; 109:all; 118:5-14; 119:84,126; 120;2; 124:all; 125:3-5; 129:1-6; 139:19-22;
140:all; 143:3-4,9-12; 144:6-11; 149:5-9)

B. Other Prayers:
(See Jeremiah 15:15; 17:18; 18:18-23; Lamentations 3:59-66; Revelation 6:9-10)

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C. God’s judgment on persecutors:
Deuteronomy 30:7 Lord put curses on enemies which persecuted thee
2 Chronicles 36:16 Wrath of the Lord arose … till there was no remedy
Psalm 7:11-16 He ordaineth his arrows against the persecutors
Psalm 11:2, 5-6 Upon the wicked he shall rain fire and brimstone
Psalm 37:12-15,17 The Lord shall laugh at him, for he seeth that his day is coming
Psalm 105:14-15 Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm
Isaiah 54:15 Whosoever shall gather against thee shall fall
Jeremiah 20:2-6 [Pashur persecuted Jeremiah, then Jeremiah prophesied God’s judgment
against him]
Luke 11:49-51 Blood of prophets … be required of this generation
1 Thessalonians 2:15-16 Forbidding us to speak … wrath is come upon them
1 Thessalonians 1:6-9 Recompense tribulation to them that trouble you
(See also Revelation 16:1-6; 18:2, 4 -8.)

10. ENDTIME PERSECUTION:

A. Suffering Persecution in last days:
Matthew 24:9-10 Then shall they deliver up to be afflicted
Mark 13:12-13 Brother shall betray brother to death
Luke 21:12, 16-17 They shall lay their hands on you, and persecute
2Timothy 3:1-3 In the last days … despisers of them that are good
B. Persecution during the grate tribulation:
Matthew 24:21-22 Then shall be grate tribulation
Mark 13:19 In those days shall be affliction, such as was not
Daniel 11:33-35 They shall fall by sword, flame, captivity, spoil … they shall be helped
Revelation 12:12-13,17 Dragon persecute the woman [Church] … war with remnant
Revelation 13:7 It was given unto him to make war with the saints
Revelation 13:15 As many as would not worship the image … killed
Revelation 20:4 Beheaded for witness … had not worshiped the beast
Deuteronomy 4:30-31 When thou art in tribulation … in the latter days
C. Tribulation saints greatly rewarded:
Revelation 7:13-17 Came out great tribulation … before throne of God
Revelation 20:4 Beheaded … reigned with Christ a thousand years

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 BACKSLIDING
(Falling away from the Lord)
1. DANGER SIGNS THAT LEAD TO LOSING FAITH:
A. Cooling off and losing “first love” for Jesus:
Revelation 2:4-5 Thou hast left thy first love … remember from whence thou art fallen, and
repent … or else I will remove
Revelation 3:15-16 Thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot
B. Being filled with own ways and desires:
Proverbs 14:14 Backslider in heart shall be filled with own ways
Ezekiel 14:3, 5 These men have set up their idols in their heart … they are estranged from me
through their idols
Ezekiel 14:7-8 Every one which … setteth up his idols in his heart …. I will cut him off from the
midst of my people
1 Timothy 6:9 Hurtful lusts … drown men in perdition
C. Losing sight of the heavenly goal in favour of temporal gain:
Proverbs 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people perish
Malachai 3:14 Ye said, it is vain to serve God … what profit is it?
Luke 15:12-13 Give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. He (left) and wasted his
substance with riotous living
Hebrews 12:16-17 Esau, for one morsel of meat sold his birthright
2 Peter 1:9 He … cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old
sins
D. Quitting when the going gets tough:
Matthew 13:20-21 When persecution ariseth … by and by he is offended
John 10:12-13 An hireling … seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth. He
careth not for the sheep
E. Desiring worldly pleasures and riches:
Hebrews 11:14-15 If they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they
might have … returned
Genesis 19:26 (Lot’s) wife looked back … and became a pillar of salt
Numbers 11:5-6 [Lusting for things of Egypt] (See also Exodus 16:3.)
Psalm 73:2-3 My steps had well night slipped. For I was envious at … the prosperity of the
wicked
Matthew 13:22 The care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word
2 Timothy 4:10 Demas hath forsaken me, having loved present world
1 John 2:15-17 If any man love the world, love of the Father not in him
Revelation 3:17 I am rich and increased with goods and need of nothing
(See also 1 Corinthians 10:5-6)
F. Not being grounded in the word:
Luke 8:13 These have no root … in time of temptation fall away
Matthew 7:26-27 [He] that heareth these sayings … and doeth them not … house upon the sand …
great was the Fall of it
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 1. Timothy 1:19 Faith … which some having put away made shipwreck
2. Timothy 4:3-4 They shall turn away their ears from the truth
G. Having an unbelieving attitude:
John 6:60, 66 Many disciples said, this is an hard saying; who can hear it? Many went back,
and walk
no more with him
Romans 11:20 Because of unbelief they were broken off
Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy
Hebrews 3:12 Take heed, lest there be in you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the
living God
Jude 1:5 The Lord, having saved the people out of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that
believed not
H. Hardening heart to the truth:
Matthew 13:15 Ears dull of hearing … their eyes they have closed
Ephesians 4:18-19 Having understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through
blindness … past feeling
I. Double-mindedness and wavering:
2 Chronicles 25:2,14 He did that which was right, but not with a perfect heart [and soon worshipped
other gods] (see also Psalm 78:36-37.)
Psalm 78:8-9 (They) set not their heart right … spirit was not steadfast
Hosea 10:2 Their heart is divided; now (are) they found faulty
James 1:6-8 A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways (see also Ephesians 4:14.)
J. Refusing to receive correction:
Proverbs 14:9 Fools make a mock at sin [as if it’s not serious]
Proverbs 15:10 Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh way
Job 33:9-10 I am clean … I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me
K. Not confessing problems and sins:
Proverbs 28:13 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper
John 3:19-20 Neither cometh to light, lest his deeds be reproved (see also Isaiah 29:15 and
Saul’s problem in 1 Samuel 15:1-35.)
L. Not responding to God’s reproofs:
Proverbs 29:1 He that being often reproved, and hardeneth hid neck
Isaiah 1:5 Why should ye be striken anymore? Ye revolt more
Isaiah 57:17 I was wroth, and smote him [but] he went on forwardly in the way of his heart
Jeremiah 2:30 In vain have I smitten your children; they received no correction (see also Isaiah
42:25; Jeremiah 5:3; Daniel 9:13.)
M. Allowing bitterness to grow:
Hebrews 12:15 Lest any man fail of the grace of God, lest any root of bitterness springing up,
trouble you (see also James 3:14-15; Ephesians 4:31.)
N. Being led astray with vain imaginations:
Jeremiah 7:24 They walked in the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward (see also
Jeremiah 13:10; 16:12.)

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O. Idleness and gossiping:
1 Timothy 5:12-13 They have cast off their faith. They learn to be idle, wandering … tattlers and
busybodies
2 Timothy 2:16 Vain babblings … will increase unto more ungodliness (see also Ephesians 1:14;
1 Timothy 6:20-21.)
P. Murmuring and ingratitude:
Numbers 14:27-30 [Murmurers not allowed to enter the promise land] (see also Numbers 11:1;
21:5-6; 1 Corinthians 10:10; Jude 15-16.)
Q. Fellowshipping with troublemakers:
Proverbs 6:12-16, 19 Forwardness is in his heart … he soweth discord
Proverbs 13:20 A companion of fools shall be destroyed
1 Corinthians 15:33 Evil communications corrupt good manners
Galatians 5:7 Who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?
James 4:4 Whoever will be a friend of the world is enemy of God (see also Luke 6:45; 1
Kings 11:4.)

R. A lack of the fear of the Lord:

Jeremiah 2:19 Thou hast forsaken the Lord … my fear is not in thee
2. GOD’S PROMISE OF MERCY TO THOSE WHO RETURN TO HIM:
2 Chronicles 30:9 God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if ye
return unto him
Isaiah 54:7-8 For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather
thee
Isaiah 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way and return, but he will have mercy upon him
Jeremiah 3:12 Return, backsliding Israel … for I am merciful
Jeremiah 3:14 Turn, o backsliding children, for I am married to you
Jeremiah 3:22 Return … and I will heal your backslidings
Hosea 14:4 I will heal their backsliding … mine anger turned away
Joel 2:12-13 Turn ye to me with all your heart, and with weeping … God is gracious and
merciful, and of great kindness
Zechariah 10:6 I will have mercy upon them: and they shall be as though I had not cast them off
(see also Job 14:7; Isaiah 1:18; Ezekiel 36:27; Daniel 9:9.)

3. ATTITUDE FOR REPENTANT PRODIGALS TO HAVE:

2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people … humble themselves and seek my face, and turn from their
wicked ways … I will forgive
Psalms 41:4 Lord … heal my soul; for I have sinned against thee
Psalms 51:3 I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sins is before me
Psalms 84:10 I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents
of wickedness
Psalms 119:176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek (me)
Jeremiah 14:7 Our backslidings are many … have sinned against thee

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Jeremiah 24:7 I will be their God: for they shall return unto me with their whole heart
Ezekiel 36:31 Then shall ye remember … and shall loathe yourselves … for your iniquities
Hosea 6:1 Come, let us return unto the Lord … he will heal us
Luke 15:19,21 I am no more worthy to be called thy son: make as one of thy hire servants
(see also Job 40:1-5; 42:1-6; Psalm 51:all; Daniel 9:3-20; James 4:6-10)

4. HOW TO AVOID LOSING THE FAITH:

A. Love the Lord and keep the heavenly vision:
Matthew 6:21 Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also
Matthew 6:124 Hate the (world), and love the [Lord] … hold on to the (Lord), and despise the
(world)
Colossians 2:6-7 Rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith
Colossians 3:1-2 Set your affection on things above, not on … earth
Hebrews 12:2-3 Looking unto Jesus … lest ye faint in your minds

B. Remember that serving Jesus is worth it all:

1 Corinthians 12:58 Be steadfast, unmovable … in the work of the Lord, your labour is not in vain in
the Lord
Galatians 6:9 Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not
Hebrews 10:35 Cast not away your confidence … hath great recompense
Hebrews 11:26-27 Esteeming … Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt … endured, as
seeing him who is invisible
James 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation … he shall receive the crown of life
(see also 2 Timothy 4:7-8.)
Revelation 3:11 Hold fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown(see also John 15:2-7
about “abiding
in the vine”; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18; Revelation 2:26-28)

C. Trust the Lord to keep you faithful:

Psalm 17:5 Hold up my goings in thy paths that my (feet) slip not
Psalm 26:1 I have trusted in the Lord; I shall not slide
Jude 1:24 He (God) is able to keep you from falling
D. Hide the Word in your heart:
Psalm 119:9 Cleanse his way by taking heed … to thy word
Psalm 119:11 Word hid in mine heart, that I might not sin
Psalm 37:31 Law of God is in his heart; none of his steps slide
Psalm 119:165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them
(See also 2 Thessalonians 2:15; 2 peter 1:4)
E. Have conviction; you know what you believe:
2 Kings 18:21 How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow him

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John 6:67, 68 Jesus (said) unto the twelve, will ye go away? To whom shall we go? Thou hast
the words of life
Acts 20:24 None of these things move me … that I might finish (my) ministry … to testify
the gospel
Romans 14:5 Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind
2 Peter 1:10 Make your calling and election sure … shall never fall

F. Be open to correction and reproof:

Psalm 141:5 Let righteous reprove me … shall be an excellent oil
Proverbs 6:23 Reproofs of instruction are the way of life (see also Proverbs 10:17.)
Proverbs 27:5-6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend
Hebrews 3:13 Exhort one another daily, lest any of you be hardened
Hebrews 12:5-13 Endure chastening … lest (ye) be turned out of the way
G. Confess your problems and sins:
Proverbs 28:13 Whoso confesseth and forsaketh (sins) shall have mercy
Hebrews12:1 Lay aside every weight, and the sin … and run the race
James 5:16 Confess your faults one another, and pray one for
(See also Job 11:14; 1 John 1:8-10)
H. Withdraw yourself from those who turn away the truth:
Psalm 1:1-2 (Walk) not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor (sit)
Psalm 119:63 I am a companion of them that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts
(see also Proverbs 13:20.)
Romans 16:17-18 Avoid them … by fair speeches deceive the simple
Ephesians 5:11 Have no fellowship with … but rather reprove them
2 Thessalonians 3:6 Withdraw selves from brother that walketh disorderly
1 Timothy 6:3-5 Perverse disputing … from such withdraw thyself
2 Peter 3:17 Beware lest ye being led away with the wicked, fall
(See also Exodus 23:2; Proverbs 1:10, 15.)
I. Love not the world:
Romans 12:2 Be not conformed to his world, but be ye transformed
Galatians 6:14 Cross of Christ, (whereby) world is crucified unto me
2 Timothy 2:4 No man that warreth entangleth self with … this world
1 John 2:15 Love not the world, neither the things in the world
(See also Colossians 3:2; 1 Corinthians 7:31.)
J. Endure hardship:
Psalm 44:14-18 All this is come upon us: yet … our heart is not turned back, neither have our
steps declined
2 Timothy 2:3 Endure hardness, as a good solider of Jesus Christ
Hebrews 11:24-25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction … than to enjoy the pleasure of sin for a
season
(See also Hebrews 12:1-3)
K. Remember how much ye’ve already endured:

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Galatians 3:4 Have ye suffered so many things in vain?
Hebrews 10:32 Call to remembrance the former days, in which … ye endured a great fight
(See also Hebrews 6:11.)
L. Be thankful and content:
Philippians 4:11 Have learned, in whatever state I am … to be content
1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks
1 Timothy 6:6-8 Having food and raiment let us be therewith content
(See also Proverbs 15:16; Ecclesiastes 6:9; Hebrews 13:5.)
M. Be thankful for what He’s delivered you from:
Psalm 40:2 He brought me out of an horrible pit … and set my feet upon a rock
N. Consider what backsliding leads to:
Proverbs 13:15 The way of the transgressor is hard
1 Corinthians 3:11-15 If any build … wood, hay, stubble … he shall suffer loss
2 Peter 2:20 If after they have escaped the … world … they are again entangled therein, the
latter end is worse (see also Psalm 106:15; Galatians 6:7; Revelation 3:11.)

5. THE ATTITUDE TO HAVE TOWARDS FORMER BRETHREN:

A. Try to win them back, if possible:
Jeremiah 31:20 Since I spake against him, I remember him still
Luke 15:4-6 What man … having an hundred sheep, if he lose one, doth not seek
Luke 15:20-24 [Father rejoiced and welcome prodigal son back home]
(See also Galatians 6:1, 2; 2 Timothy 2:24-26)
B. Don’t give up on them
Jeremiah 31:17 There is hope in thine end … that thy children shall come again to their own
border
(See also the story of Simon Peter in Luke 22:54-62; Mark 16:7; Acts 2:14, 38, 40.)
(See also the story of John Mark in Acts 13:5,13; 14:36-40; 2 Timothy 4:11.)
C. Some people were never really part of your fellowship:
Galatians 2:4 False brethren unawares … came in privily to spy out
1 John 2:19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they
would have continued
Jude1:4 Men crept in … who were ordained to condemnation
D. Some become antagonistic:
Matthew 12:30 He that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad
Philippians 3:18 For many walk … they are enemies of the cross
(Judas’ backsliding: Matthew 26:14-15, 47-50; 27:5.)
(Alexander’s backsliding: 1 Timothy 1:19-20; 2 Timothy 4:14-15.)
Special chapters about falling away from the faith: Nehemiah 9:15-37; Psalm 78; 106; Luke 15:11-32

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 CHRISTIANITY IN CRISIS

“Would that thou wert cold or not.” (Revelation 3:15)

(This section is a detailed study on the pitfalls of complacency and even apostasy that individual
Christians, as well as entire churches and denominations, can fall into. It is the editors’ prayer that the
reader will not merely reflect on the fallings of other Christians maturity, use it as spiritual
thermometer to measure his or her own depth of devotion to Jesus Christ, and know whether they
are “cold or hot.”)

1. PREDICTION OF A GREAT APOSTASY IN THE LAST DAYS:

Matthew 24:12 Iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold
2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 The day Christ … shall not come, except there come a falling away [apostasy]
first
1 Timothy 4:1 The spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the
faith
2 Timothy4:3-4 The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine … turn away their
ears from the truth
2. IGNORANCE OF THE WORD OF GOD:
A. Many don’t study the Word or know what it really says:
Hosea 4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge
Matthew 12:3-5Have ye not read what David did … or have not read in the law (see also Matthew 19:4.)
Matthew 22:29 Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures
Acts 13:27 They knew [understood] not … the prophets which are read every Sabbath day
(see also 2 Corinthians 3:14-15.)
1 Timothy 1:7 Understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm
(See also Jeremiah 5:4; Acts 13:27)
B. The dangers of being unlearned in the word:
2 Peter 3:16 In all [Paul’s] epistles … things hard to be understood, which they that are
unlearned … wrest [distort]
C. The ignorant can be easily led astray by false teachers:
Galatians 1:6-7 Ye are so soon removed from him that called you … unto another gospel
2 Thessalonians 2:2-3, 5 Let no man deceive you … Remember ye not … I told you these things?
D. Even many who know the Word don’t obey it:
Jeremiah 5:5 The great men … have known the way of the Lord … but these have altogether
broken the yoke [disobeyed]
Jeremiah 8:8-9 How do ye say, we are wise, and the law of the Lord is with us? Lo … the pen of
the scribes is in vain
Matthew 23:3 Do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not
Romans 2:17-24 Thou … knowest his will … hast … the truth … makest thy boast of the law,
through breaking the law dishonourest thou God
E. Some, though familiar with the Word, are not even saved:
Jeremiah 2:8 They that handle the law knew me not
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John 3:1-10 Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things [about being born
again]
3. DOCTRINE AND TRADITIONS OF MAN VS. GOD’S WORD:
A. Beware of exalting doctrines of man above the Word:
Isaiah 29:13 Their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men
Matthew 15:3 Yealso transgress the commandment of God by your tradition
Matthew 15:9 Teaching for doctrines the commandments of men
Mark 7:9 Ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition
Mark 7:13 Making the word … of none effect through your traditions
2 Timothy 4:3-4 After their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears
B. “Denominationalism” and needless doctrinal divisions:
Romans 14:1-6 [Avoid arguing over minor personal doctrines]
1 Corinthians 1:10-13 One … saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas … is Christ divided?
(See also 1 Corinthians 3:21-23)
1 Timothy 6:3-4 Proud … doting about questions and strifes of words
(See also John 4:20-21; Acts 15:5, 24.)
C. Prestige-seeking leaders create their own factions:
Acts 20:30 Of your own selves shall men arise, speaking preserve [erroneous] things, to
draw away disciples after them
2 Timothy 1:15 All they which are in Asia be turned away from [Paul]; of whom [the leaders] are
Phygellus and Hermogenes
3 John 1:9-10 Diotrephes, loveth to have the preeminence among them [and rejected the
apostle John’s authority]
D. Splitting theological hairs, while disobeying the Word:
Matthew 23:24 Ye … strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel
Luke 11:42 Ye tithe [but] pass over judgement and the love of God
E. Twisting the Word to suit personal doctrines:
1 Timothy 1:5-6 The commandment is charity … from which some … have turned aside unto vain
jangling
2 Peter 1:20 No prophecy of the scripture [should be] of any private interpretation
2 Peter 3:16 They that are unlearned and unstable wrest … the scripture, unto their own
destruction
F. Stick to solid Scriptural doctrines :
1 Timothy 4:6-7 Nourished up in the word of faith and of good doctrine
1 Timothy 6:3-4 If any … consent not to … the words of our Lord Jesus Christ … he is proud,
knowing nothing
Titus 1:14 Not giving heed to … commandments of men, that turn from the truth
(See also Colossians 2:8-9; 2 Timothy 1:13; 2:14-16, 23; Titus 1:9; 2:1, 8; 3:9.)
G. Beware of those who deny biblical beliefs:
Jeremiah 8:9 The wise … have rejected the word of the Lord; and what wisdom is in them?
Acts 23:8 [They] say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit
1 Corinthians 15:12-17 Howsay some among you that there is on resurrection

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Galatians 1:9 If any man preach any other gospel … let him be accursed
2 Timothy 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof
2 Peter 2:1 Damnable heresies, even denying the Lord
4. THE DWELLING PLACE OF GOD:
A. Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit:
John 4:20-24 Neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship … true worshippers shall
worship the Father in spirit
1 Corinthians 3:16 Ye are the temple of God … the Spirit of God dwelleth in you
1 Corinthians 6:19 Your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you
2 Corinthians 6:16 Ye are the temple of the living God … I will dwell in them
B. The true church is the body of believers:
Acts 2:41-47 [Scriptural definition of what the church is]
Romans 12:4-5 We, being many, are one body in Christ
1 Corinthians 12:13-38 Yeare the body of Christ, and members in particular
Colossians 1:18, 24 [Jesus] is the head of the body, the church
1 Peter 2:5 Ye also lively stones, are built up a spiritual house [church]
(See also Corinthians 10:17; Ephesians 4:4, 12, 15-16.)
C. The early church only had homes meet in:
(See Romans 16:3, 5; 1 Corinthians 16:19; Colossians 4:15 Philemon 2.)
D. Does God dwell in church buildings?
1 Kings8:27 The heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this
house that I [Solomon] have builded?
Isaiah 66:1 Earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me?
Hosea 8:14 Israel hath forgotten his Maker, and buildeth temples
Acts 7:48 The most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands
Hebrews 9:24 Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands

5. THE DANGER OF COMPLANCY:

A. Luke warmness and satisfaction with material things:
Revelation 3:15-16 I know thy works, that thou art … lukewarm
Jeremiah 5:31 The prophets prophecy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my
people love to have it so
1 Timothy 6:5 Supposing that gain is godliness [the “abundant life’]
Revelation 3:17 Thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and
knowest not that thou art wretched
B. Closing our minds to the truth is spiritual blindness:
Matthew 15:14 They be blind leaders of the blind
Isaiah 30:9 Rebellious people … that will not hear the law of the Lord
Zechariah 7:11-12 They refused to hearken … and stooped their ears … lest they should hear the …
words [given by] the prophets
Matthew 13:14-15 Their eyes they have closed; lest … they should see

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 (See also Matthew 23:16-17, 24, 26; Romans 10:3; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians
4:18.)
C. Even many who boast that they “see” are blind:
John 9:40-41 Are we blind also? Jesus said … ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth
Revelation 3:17 Thou … knowest not that thou art … blind
D. Compromise due of fear of man:
John 12:42-43 Many believed … but … did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the
synagogue
Mark 8:38 Whosoever shall be ashamed of me … of him shall the Son of man be ashamed

6. DISOBEDIENCE TO THE GREAT COMMISSION:

A. What we as Christians are supposed to do:
Mark 16:15 Go ye into the world, and preach the gospel to every creature
B. Beware of no concern to win the lost:
Isaiah 56:10-11 His watchmen are blind … dumb dogs, they cannot bark … shepherds that …
look to their own way … for his gain
Jeremiah 50:6 Lost sheep: their shepherds have caused them to go astray
Ezekiel 34:4-6 Neither have ye sought that which was lost
Ezekiel 34:8 Neither did my shepherds search for my flock, but the shepherds fed
themselves, and fed not my flock
John 10:12-13 The hireling fleeth … and careth not the sheep
(See also Ezekiel 33:6.)
C. Hypocrisy among believers turns men from salvation:
Romans 2:17-24 For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you (see also
Matthew 23:13; Luke 11:52)
7. FAILURE TO SHEPHERD THE FLOCK:
A. Jesus’ commands to pastors:
Proverbs 27:23 Be thou diligent to know the state of my flocks
John 21:16 Lovest thou me? … Feed my sheep
Acts 20:28 Feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood
1 Peter 5:2 Feed the flock of God which is among you
B. Many neglect to spiritually feed their flocks:
Ezekiel 34:2-3 Should not the shepherds feed the flocks? Ye feed not
Ezekiel 34:18-19 My flock … drink that which ye have fouled with your feet
C. They don’t minister to and care of them:
Jeremiah 6:14 They have healed also the hurt … of my people slightly
Ezekiel 34:4 The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither … healed … neither … bound up
… neither … brought again
D. Unshepherded members are a scattered flock:
Jeremiah 23:2 The pastors thatfeed my people; Ye have scattered my flock … and have not
visited them

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Jeremiah 13:17, 20 Weep … because the Lord’s flock is carried away captive. … Where is … thy
beautiful flock?
Ezekiel 34:5-8 They were scattered, because there is no shepherd
Matthew 9:36 [Jesus] was moved with compassion on them, because they … were scattered
abroad, as sheep having no shepherd
8. WARNING AGAINST COVETING FINANCIAL GAIN:
A. Preaching for money, not to win souls or feed the flocks:
1 Peter 5:2 Feed the flock of God … not for filthy lucre
Jeremiah 6:13 Given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one
dealth falsely
Micah 3:11 Priests thereof teach for hire, and the prophets thereof divine money
Matthew 6:24 No man can save … God and mammon [materialism]
Titus 1:10-11 Vain talkers … teaching … for filthy lucre’s sake
2 Peter 2:1, 3 False teachers … through covetousness shall they with feigned words make
merchandise of you (see also Zechariah 11:4-5)
B. Unjustly robbing the poor:
Isaiah 56:11 They all look to their own way, every one for his gain
Ezekiel 33:31 With their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after their
covetousness
Ezekiel 34:2-3 Woe be to the shepherds … that feed themselves. … Ye eat the fat, and ye
clothe you with wool
Matthew 23:14 Ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayer
C. Selfishness towards the needy shows a lack of love:
Matthew 25:42-43 I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat
1 John 3:17 Whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need [and doesn’t
help] how dwelleth the love of God in him?
(See also James 2:15-16.)
9. WARNING AGAINST HYPOCRISY:
A. To those pretends to be Christians, but are not:
Jeremiah 7:4 Lying words, saying, the temple of the Lord, are these
Matthew 7:21 Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into … heaven; but he
that doeth the will of my Father
Matthew 15:9 In vain they do worship me
Matthew 23:2-3Do not hear after their works: for they say and do not
Matthew 23:14 For a pretense make long prayer
Luke 6:46 Why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things I say?
Titus 1:16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him
(See also Matthew 7:22-23)
B. Some appear outwardly good, but are inwardly wicked:
Matthew 7:15 In sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves
Matthew 23:5 All their works they do for to be seen of men

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Matthew 23:27-28 Like unto whited sepulchers, which indeed appear beautiful outward … full of
hypocrisy and iniquity
Luke 18:11-12 I thank thee, that I am not as … this Publican. I fast
(See also Jeremiah 7:9-10.)
C. False holiness and religious standards:
Matthew 23:4 They bind heavy burdens … on men’s shoulders
Acts 15:10 Why … out a yoke upon the neck of the disciples
(See also Matthew 6:2, 5,16.)
D. False profession of love for God:
Isaiah 29:13 This people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me,
but have removed their heart far from me
Jeremiah 2:32 My people have forgotten me days without number
Jeremiah 5:1-2 Though they say, The Lord liveth; surely they swear falsely
Ezekiel 33:31-32 They come … as my people, and they hear thy words, but they not do them
Matthew 15:8 Draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but
there is far from me (see also 7:6)
1 John 4:20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar (see also Malachi 1:6;
Isaiah 58:1-2)
10. RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION:
A. Misled religious zeal frequently result in persecution:
Isaiah 66:5 Your brethren … cast you out for my name’s sake
Matthew 23:31-35 Children of them which killed the prophets … from the blood of righteous Abel
… Zacharias
John 16:2 Whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God services
Galatians 4:29 He that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit,
even so it is now
(See also Lamentation 4:13-14; Matthew 27:40-43; John 19:6-7.)
B. Religious jealousy motivates persecution:
Mark 15:10 The chief priests had delivered [Jesus] for envy (see also John 11:47-50, 53.)
Acts 13:44-45 When the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy
Special chapters about Christianity in crisis: Ezekiel 13:34; Jeremiah 23; Matthew 23; Revelation 2-3

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 THE LAW OF CHRIST
“The perfect law of liberty” vs. religious legalism

1. SALVATION IS PURELY BY GRACE, NOT WORKS:

Romans 3:28 A man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law
Ephesians 2:8-9 By grace [undeserved mercy] are ye saved through faith … it is the gift of God:
Not of works
Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy
he saved us
A. Salvation is partly by grace and partly by good works:
Romans 11:6 If by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace
B. Salvation was always by grace, even in the Old Testament:
Genesis 6:8 But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord
Genesis 15:6 [Abraham] believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness (see
also Romans 4:3, 5-8, 21-22.)
Habakkuk 2:4 The just shall live by his faith
C. Scrupulously was keeping the Mosaic law never justified anyone:
John 1:17 Law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ
Romans 3:20 By the deeds of the law there shall no flesh justified
Romans 9:31 Israel, which after the law … hath not attained to the law of righteousness
Galatians 2:16 A man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ
(see also Galatians 3:11.)
Hebrews 7:19 The law made nothing perfect, but … a better hope did

2. WHAT WAS THE MOSAIC LAW?

A. It was a legal code that God gave Moses:
Exodus 24:12 And the Lord said unto Moses, come up to me into the mount … and I will give
thee … a law
B. It was a strict legal code of justice and retribution:
Exodus 21:23-25 Thou shalt give life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand … Burning
for burning
Hebrews 10:28 He that despised [broke] Moses’ law died without mercy
C. The Ten Commandments were not merely “helpful moral guidelines”, but strict laws, most carrying
the death
penalty:
Exodus 20:2-3 (#1) Thou shalt have on other gods before me [Death penalty:Exodus 22:20;
Deuteronomy 13:1-18]
Exodus 20:4-5 (#2)Thou shalt not makeunto thee any graven image [Death penalty same as
(#1)] (see also Leviticus 26:1, 30; Deuteronomy 4:23-26.)
Exodus 20:7 (#3) Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain [Death penalty:
Leviticus 24:10-16]

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Exodus 20:8-10 (#4) Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. [Death penalty: Exodus 31:14-
15; 35:2]
Exodus 20:12 (#5) Honour thy father and thy mother [Death penalty: Exodus 21:15, 17;
Leviticus 20:9 Deuteronomy 21:18-21]
Exodus 20:13 (#6) Thou shalt not kill [Death penalty: Exodus 21:12; Leviticus 21:17, 21;
Numbers 35:16-31]
Exodus 20:14 (#7) Thou shalt not commit adultery [Death penalty:Leviticus 20:10;
Deuteronomy 22:22]
Exodus 20:15 (#8) Thou shalt not steal [Punishment: Exodus 22:7; Proverbs 6:20; death
penalty: Exodus 21:16]
Exodus 20:16 (#9) Thou shalt not bear false witness [Punishment and/or death penalty:
Deuteronomy 19:16-21]
Exodus 20:17 (#10) Thou shalt not covet … anything that is thy neighbour’s
Galatians 4:21 Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?
D. The Ten Commandments were only the beginning; Moses’ law contained hundreds of other
commandments:
Deuteronomy 27:26 Cursed be he that confirmet not all the words of this law to do them (see also
Galatians 3:10.)
(See also Deuteronomy 4:13-14.)
E. If guilty of breaking one law, guilty of breaking it all:
James 2:10 Whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of
all
3. THE LAW SERVED A PURPOSE ONLY FOR A TIME:
Galatians 3:19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the
seed [Jesus] should come
Galatians 3:23 Before faith came, we were kept under the law
Hebrews 9:10 Carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation

A. It was merely a copy, a shadow, of the real thing:

Colossians 2:16-17 Sabbath days … are a shadow of things to come; but the body [the reality that
casts the shadow] is of Christ
Hebrews 8:5 The example and shadow of heavenly things
Hebrews 9:8-9 First tabernacle … a figure for the time then present
Hebrews 10:1 The law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the
things
1 John 2:8 A new commandment … because the darkness is past, and the true light now
shineth.
B. The law was hard to keep:
John 7:19 Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law (see also
Acts 7:53.)
Acts 10:15 A yoke upon the neck … which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear

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Romans 7:14-19 The law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin… how to perform that which
is good i find not
C. This showed man he was a sinner in need of grace:
Romans 3:20 By the law is the knowledge of sin
Romans 7:7 I had not known sin, but by the law
Romans 3:19 That … all the world may become guilty before God
Galatians 3:24 The law was our schoolmasters to bring us unto Christ
(See also Romans 4:15.)

D. The old law was unprofitable and eventually to be replaced:

Romans 8:3 What the law could not do, in that it was weak
Hebrews 7:18 For there is verily a disannulling of the [Mosaic law] … for the weakness and
unprofitableness thereof

4. ANONEMENT (PAYMENT) FOR BREAKING THE LAW:

A. Because men constantly broke the law, forgiveness was needed, and a blood sacrifice was required:
Leviticus 4:1-4 If a soul sin … against any of the commandments of the Lord … kill the bullock
before the Lord
Leviticus 17:11 It is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul
Hebrews 9:22 Without shedding of the blood is no remission
(See also Leviticus 6:2-3, 6-7; 16:3, 5-11, 15-22.)
B. But this never permanently freed man from sin:
Hebrews 10:1-4, 11 It is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins … can
never take away sins
C. But Jesus made a perfect and permanent sacrifice:
Matthew 26:28 This is my blood … which is shed for many for the remission of sins
Hebrews 9:7-14 By his own blood … obtained eternal redemption for us
Hebrews 9:25-28 Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many
Hebrews 10:10-12 We are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all
1 Peter 1:18-19 Ye were not redeemed … with the precious blood of Christ
1 John 1:7 The blood of Jesus Christ … Cleanseth us from all sin

(See also John 1:29; Romans 5:9.)

5. THE NEW LAW, THE LAW OF CHRIST:

A. God promise a new law to replace the old Mosaic Law:
Jeremiah 31:31-33 The days come … that I will make a new covenant … I will … write [my law] in
their hearts
Hebrews 8:7-10 Finding fault with [the old covenant], he saith … I will make a new covenant

B. Names of the law:

 A new covenant (Jeremiah 31:31)

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  The law of faith (Romans 3:27)
 The law of the Spirit of life (Romans 8:2)
 The law of righteousness (Romans 9:31)
 The law of Christ (Galatians 6:2)
 The new testament (Hebrews 9:15)
 The perfect law of liberty (James 1:25)
 The royal law (James 2:8)
 The holy commandment (2 Peter 2:21)

C. Jesus’ death on the fulfilled and ended the law:

Matthew 5:17 I am not come to destroy [the law], but to fulfill
John 19:30 [Jesus] said, it is finished [when he died for our sins, the Mosaic Law ended for
believers]
Romans 10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth
Colossians 2:14 Blotting out [wiping the slate completely clean of] the … ordinances [law] …
nailing it to his cross

D. The old Mosaic Law is now discarded (for believers in Jesus):

Hebrews 8:13 He hath made the first [covenant] old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old
is ready to vanish away
Hebrews 10:9 He taketh away the first [law], that he may establish the second
Hebrews 8:6 A better covenant … established upon better promises

E. True believers are no longer bound by the rigid Mosaic Law:

Romans 6:14 Ye are not under the law, but under grace
Galatians 3:24-25 The law was our schoolmaster … But after that faith is come, we are no longer
under a schoolmaster
1 Timothy 1:19 The law is not made for righteous man, but for the lawless … ungodly … profane
… murderers

F. Jesus has liberated us from the Mosaic Law:

Romans 7:4 Ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ
Romans 7:6 Now we are delivered from the law
Romans 8:1-2 The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin
and death
Galatians 3:13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law

G. Jesus’ Spirit and truth gives us freedom:

John 8:36 If the son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed
2 Corinthians 3:17 Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty
Galatians5:1 The liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free
Galatians 5:5 Through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith

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Galatians 5:18 If ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law

H. Read Jesus’ liberating words to be set free:

John 8:31-32 Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free
Romans 10:17 Faith cometh by hearing … the word of God
James 1:25 Whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein … shall be
blessed I his deed

6. NOW THE COMMMANDMENT IS TO LOVE GOD AND OUR NEIGHBOUR:

A. This fulfills the law, and fulfills your only obligation:

Matthew 7:12 All things … ye would that men should do to you, do to them: for this is the law
(see also Luke 6:31.)
Matthew 22:36-40 Thou shalt love … God … Thou shalt love thy neighbour. … On these two
commandments [depend] all the law
Romans 13:8 He that loveth another hath fulfilled the law
Romans 13:10 Love woketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law
Galatians 5:14 All the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as
thyself
James 2:8 If ye fulfill the royal law … Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well
(See also Mark 12:29-31.)

B. Deeds done in pure, unselfish love are lawful:

Galatians 5:22-23 Fruit of the Spirit is love … against such there is no law
1 Corinthians 6:12 All things are lawful unto me (see also1 Corinthians 10:23.)
Titus 1:15 Unto the pure all things are pure
Luke 11:41 All things are clean unto you.

C. But you have faith for your actions:

Romans 14:14 To him that esteemeth [thinks] anything to be unclean, to him that is unclean
Romans 14:22 Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth
Romans 14:23 He that doubteth is damned [judge] … for whatsoever is not of faith is sin
Titus 1:15 Unto the … defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure

7. LIVING THE NEW LAW:

A. In some ways, the law of Christ is stricter than Moses’ law:
Matthew 5:38-42 [Exodus 21:24] said, an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto
you, That ye resist not evil
Matthew 5:43-45 [The law] said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say
unto you, Love your enemies
Luke 10:25-37 Thou shalt love … thy neighbour as thyself. Who is my neighbour? [Even those
you’d normally dislike]

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James 4:17 Him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not … it is sin

B. Only Jesus can give you the power to live His law:
Philippians 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me
2 Corinthians 5:14 For the love of Christ constraineth [compels] us
2 Corinthians 12:9 My [God’s] grace is sufficient for thee

8. WARNINGS AGAINST MISUSING THE NEW LAW:

A. Selfish, unloving liberties:
Romans 14:15 If thy brother be grieved … now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him
with thy [liberty]
Romans 14:20 All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence
1 Corinthians 6:12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient
1 Corinthians 8:9, 12 Take heed lest … this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to them that are
weak
(See also 1 Corinthians 8.)
1 Corinthians 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things edify not
B. Walk in love, not in lust and sin:
Romans 6:1-2 Shall we … sin, that grace may abound? God forbid
Galatians 5:13 Use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another
1 Peter 2:16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the
servant of God
(See also Romans 3:8; 14: all; 15:1-2.)

9. BEWARE OF FALLING INTO RELIGIOUS LEGALISM:

A. The concision: Believers still bound by the law:
Acts 21:20 Many thousands of Jews … which believe; and they are all zealous of the law
Philippians 3:2-3 Beware of evil workers, beware of the concision
(See also Acts 15:1, 24; Galatians 6:12-13; Romans 2:28-29.)
B. Don’t be entangled again by the law:
Galatians 3:1, 3 Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the
flesh?
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty … and be not entangled again with yoke of
bondage
Revelation 12:14 A time, and times, and half a time
Revelation 11:2 Forty and two months
Revelation 12:6 (1,260) days.

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 CREATION VS. EVOLUTION

1. God CREATED THE WORLD, NOT CHANCE OF EVOLUTION:

Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth
Nehemiah 9:6 Thou hast made … the earth, and all things that are therein
Isaiah 45:12 I have made the earth, and created man upon it
John 1:1-3 All things were made by [Jesus]; and without him was not anything made that
was made
Colossians 1:16 For by [Jesus] were all things created
Hebrews 1:2 His son … by whom also he made the worlds
(See also Ephesians 3:9; Psalm 105:25; Isaiah 48:13; Acts 4:24; 14:15; 17:24.)

2. GOD’S WORD CREATED (AND MAINTAINS) THE UNIVERSE:

Psalm 33:6 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made
Psalm 33:9 For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast
Colossians 1:17 [Jesus] is before all things, and by him all things consist [hold together]
Hebrews 1:3 Upholding all things by the word of his power
Hebrews 11:3 The worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were
not made of things which do appear

3. GOD’S CREATION IS PROOF OF HIS EXISTENCE:

Job 12:7-19 The earth … shall teach thee … Who knoweth not … that the hand of the Lord
hath wrought this?
Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament [sky] showeth his
handiwork
Romans 1:20 The invisible things of him [are] understood by the things that are made … so
that they are without excuse

4. JESUS BELIEVED IN AND QUOTED FROM GENESIS:

Matthew 19:4-5 Have ye not read … he … made them at the beginning (see also Genesis 1:27; 2:24.)
John 5:46-47 If ye believe not [Moses] writings, how shall ye believe my words?

5. THE BIBLE AND SCIENCE:

A. Prophetic description of “discoveries” about creation:
Job 36:27-28 [Hydrological cycle] Rain according to the vapour thereof: Which the clouds do
drop and distil
Ecclesiastes 1:7 All the rivers run into the sea … from whence the rivers come, thither they
return again
Job 38:22 Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? [No two snowflakes are alike]
Job 26:7 He … hangeth the earth upon nothing
Isaiah 40:22 It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth
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B. “Prehistoric” beasts are mentioned in the Bible coexisting with man:
Genesis 1:21 God created great whales [Hebrews: great sea monsters]
Job 40:15-24 Behold now behemoth … moveth his tail like a cedar
Job 41:1-34 Leviathan … shall not one be cast down even at the sight of him?
C. Each species created distinct and separate; the unbridgeable gap of sterility separates species:
Genesis 1:11-12,
21, 24-25 Every [Plant and] living creature …. Brought forth after their kind

6. GOD, AS THE CREATOR, HAS RIGHT OF OKWNERSHIP OF EVERYTHING:

Job 41:11 Whatsoever is under the whole heaven is mine
Psalm 24:1-2 Earth is the Lord’s … and there shall dwell therein
Psalm 50:10-12 Every beasts of the forest is mine … the world is mine
Psalm 89:11 The heavens are thine, the earth also is thine
Psalm 95:3-5 The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land.
(See also Psalm 102:25; Isaiah 45:18.)

7. HE EXPECTS AND DESERVES REVERENCE AND WORSHIP FROM HIS CREATION:

Psalm 33:6-9 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made … Let all the earth fear the Lord
[and] stand in awe of him
Psalm 148:5 Praise the name of the Lord: for he … created
Ecclesiastes 12:1 Remember now thy creator in the days of thy youth
Isaiah 45:9 Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker
Isaiah 48:12-13 Hearken unto me … Mine also hath laid the foundation of the earth, and …
spanned the heavens
Jeremiah 32:17 Thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and … there is
nothing too hard for thee
Jeremiah 33:2-3 Thussaith the Lord the maker … call unto me
Acts 14:15 Turn from these vanities unto … God, which made heaven, and earth, and the
sea, and all things that are therein
(See also Jeremiah 5:22; Isaiah 42:5; Amos 4:13.)

8. GOD HAS POWER TO CONTROL HIS CREATIONS:

Job 38:1-11 Here shall thy proud waves be stayed [stopped]
Psalm 104:5-35 [A description of God’s control of creation]
Psalm 135:5-7 Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did he … in earth
(See also Job chapter 26, 28, 38-41; Psalm 148:6-14; Matthew 8:26; Mark 4:39; Luke8:24.)

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 THE END TIME

1. THE LAST DAYS; SIGNS OF THE TIMES:

A. We should discern the signs of the times:

Matthew 16:3 Can ye not discern the signs of the times?
Matthew 24:3 What should be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
Matthew 24:39 (Unbelievers) knew not until the flood came
1 Thessalonians 5:2, 4 Ye, brethren, are not (to be) in darkness
2 Peter 3:3-4 scoffers saying, “Where is his coming?” All things continue as they were”
B. Greatly increased learning:
Daniel 12:4 Time of the end: Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased
2 Timothy 3:1, 7 [Modern education:] ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of
the truth
Matthew 24:14 Gospel preached in all the world [now possible by radio, TV, etc.] … then the
end
C. Natural disasters:
Matthew 24:7 There shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes
Luke 21:26 Men’s heart failing them for fear [unprecedented rate of the heart attacks
today]

D. Wickedness and wars:

2 Timothy 3:1, 13 In the last days … evil men shall wax worse and worse
Matthew 24:6-7Wars and rumours of wars … nation against nation
Matthew 24:37-38 As the days of Noe were (corrupt and violent) so shall
Luke 21:25 Upon earth distress of nations [civil unrest]

E. Great falling away from true faith:

2 Thessalonians 2:2-3 The day of Christ shall not come, except there come a falling away (apostasy)
first
Matthew 24:12 Iniquity shall abound … the love of many shall wax cold
Matthew 24:5, 11, 24 There shall arise false Christ, and false prophets … deceive many
1 Timothy 4:1 In latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to … doctrines of
devils
F. Increased persecution of Christians:
Matthew 24:9-10 Ye shall be hated of all nations … many be offended
Luke 21:16-17 Ye shall be betrayed … and some of you … put to death
G. What all these fulfilled signs mean:
Matthew 24:33 When ye see all these things, know that (Jesus’ coming is) near
Revelation 20:4 Them … which had not worshipped the beast … lived and reigned with Christ
1. Christians overcome and survive despite persecution:
Revelation 12:11 They overcame him (Antichrist) by the blood of the Lamb, and by the blood of
their testimony
Daniel 11:32 People that know their God shall be strong, and do exploits
Romans 8:35-37 In all these things we are more than conquerors
1 Corinthians 15:51-52 We shall not all sleep (die), but we shall all be changed
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17We which are alive and remain [Many Christians still alive at Jesus 2nd coming]

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J. Protection and provision during tribulation:
Revelation 9:3-4 [The wicked will be tormented, but Christians will be spared]
Revelation 11:3, 5-7 Two witnesses … have power … to smite the earth with all plagues
Revelation 12:6 Fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they
should feed her there
Revelation 12:14 Fly into the wilderness … where she is nourished
K. Witnessing during the tribulation:
Daniel 11:33 They that understand … shall instruct many
L. Length of the great tribulation:
Daniel 7:25 A time, times, and An half
Revelation 12:14 A time, and times, and half a time
Revelation 11:2 Forty and two months
Revelation 12:6 (1,260) days
,

7. THE SECOND COMING OF JESUS CHRIST:

A. After the great tribulation (but before the wrath):
Matthew 24:29-30 Immediately after the tribulation … they shall see the Son of man coming in the
clouds
2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 That day (of Jesus’ coming) shall not come, except … first that of sin (the
Antichrist) be revealed
B. Jesus’ coming will not be a secret event:
1 Thessalonians 5:1-4 Ye are not in darkness [We will be expecting Jesus, but the world will be
surprised]
Matthew 24:23-26 If any man say unto you, here is Christ, or there … in the secret chambers;
believe it not
Matthew 24:30 The tribes of the earth (shall) mourn, and see the Son of man coming … with
power and great glory
Acts 1:9-11 Jesus … shall so come in like manner (in the clouds)
Revelation 1:7 He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him
C. The tremendous signs of His coming:
Matthew 24:27 For as the lighting … shineth … so shall also the coming … be [Jesus light up the
sky]
Matthew 24:29 Sun be darkened … moon not give light
1 Thessalonians 4:16 Lord shall … shout … voice of the archangel … trump of God [Lots of noise and
commotion]

8. THE RESURRECTION AND RAPTURE:

A. The living raptured, the dead resurrected:

1 Thessalonians 4:14 Them which sleep in Jesus (departed saved) will God bring with him
Isaiah 26:19 Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise
1 Thessalonians 4:15-16The dead in Christ (their bodies) shall rise first
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1 Thessalonians 4:17 Then we which are alive shall be caught up (raptured)
Matthew 24:31 Sound of the trumpet … gather together (rapture) elect
1 Corinthians 15:51 We shall not all (die), but we shall be changed
1 Corinthians 15:52 At last trump … the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed
(transformed)
Revelation 20:6 Blessed and holy … hath part in the first resurrection
(See also 1 Corinthians 15:53-54; 2 Corinthians 5:1-4.)

B. Our powerful, immortal resurrection bodies:

Luke 20:36 Neither can they die anymore … equal unto the angles … being the children of
the resurrection
Philippians 3:20-21 Jesus … change our body … like his glorious body
1 John 3:2 Whenhe shall appear, we shall be like him
Luke 24:26-40 A spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have
John 20:19, 26 The doors were shut … Jesus stood in the midst
Luke 24:30-31 As he sat at meat … he vanished out of their sight.
Luke 24:42-43 He took it (fish and an honeycomb), and did eat
Acts 10:40-41 We did eat and drink with after he rose from the dead
1 Corinthians 6:14 God hath raised up (Jesus), and will also raise up us
(See also 1 Corinthians 15:19-55-“The Resurrection Chapter.”)

9. THE MARRIAGE SUPPER OF THE LAMB:

Revelation 7:9, 13-17 Great multitudes [of Christians] which came out of great tribulation … are
before the throne of God
Revelation 19:1, 6-9 Much people in heaven … the marriage of the Lamb is come
Romans 7:4 [Christians are married to Jesus]
Hosea 2:19-20 I (God) will betroth thee unto me forever (see also Isaiah 62:5; 2
Corinthians11:2.)

10. JUDGEMENT SEAT OF CHRIST:

A. Christians rewarded or punished for their work:
Romans 14:10-12 Judgment seat … everyone shall give account of himself
2 Corinthians 5:10 We (Christians) must appear before the judgment seat of Christ … receive
(rewards for) things done
Revelation 22:12 My reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be
B. Jesus praises and rewards some, is ashamed of others:
Daniel 12:3 They that turn many to righteousness (shine) as stars
Matthew 25:21 Well done, thou good and faithful … enter into the joy of thy Lord
1 Corinthians 3:11-14 If any man’s work abide … he shall receive a reward
1 Corinthians 3:15 If any man’s work … burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved
Mark 8:38 Of him (some Christians) shall the Son … be ashamed
Daniel 12:2 Many shall awake … some to shame and contempt

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C. The crown of life-A reward for faithful services:
Revelation 2:10 Be thou faithful … I will give thee a crown of life
James 1:2 Crown of life … Lord hath promised to them that him
2 Timothy 4:7-8 I have kept the faith … a crown of righteousness

11. THE WRATH OF GOD UPON THE EARTH:

A. God’s wrath upon the remaining unsaved:
Isaiah 26:19-21 Dead men shall live … then the Lord cometh …to punish the inhabitants of the
earth
Isaiah 13:9-11 The day of the Lord cometh with wrath and anger … he shall destroy the sinners
… punish the world
Revelation 14:9-10 If any man worship the beast … the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of
God
Revelation 16:1-21 [Description of the plagues of God’s wrath]

B. The utter destruction of Babylon by fire:

Revelation 17:1, 5, 18 The great whore … Babylon the Great … that great city, which reigneth over the
Kings of the earth
Revelation 18:2-3, 11 [Babylon is the world merchant/ commercial system]
Revelation 18:8 In one day … she shall be utterly burned with fire
Revelation 18:17 In one hour so great riches is come to nought
Revelation 17:16 Ten horns [leaders of nations] shall make her desolate … and burn herwith fire

12. THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON:

A. The Antichrist, his allies, and eastern kings gather to fight:
Revelation 16:12 Water (of the Euphrates river) was dried up, that the way of the kings of the
earth might be prepared
Revelation 16:13-14 Devils … go forth unto (Antichrist’s) kings … of the whole world, to gather them
to the battle
Revelation 16:16 He gathered them together into a place called … Armageddon
Revelation 19:19 Kings of the earth … gathered together to make war against him
Revelation 17:12-14 Ten kings … these shall make war with the Lamb
Ezekiel 38:1-9 Gog … in the letter years thou shalt come into … Israel … my people with thee
B. The Lord and His armies destroy the Antichrist’s forces:
Deuteronomy 32:41-43 Rejoice … for he will avenge the blood of his servants
2 Thessalonians 1:7-9 Jesus shall be revealed from heaven … taking vengeance on (the wicked)
Jude 1:14-15 The Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints, to execute judgment upon all
Revelation 19:11 [Jesus comes riding on a white horse to make war]
Revelation 19:14-15 Armies inn heaven (saints) followed him upon white horses
Revelation 19:19, 21 The remnant (of the Antichrist’s armies) were slain
Isaiah 11:4 With the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked

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Revelation 19:20 The beast was taken, and the false prophet … these both were cast alive into a
lake of fire
C. The cleanup after the battle:
Isaiah 66:15-16 The slain of the Lord shall be many
Revelation 19:17-18 Saying to all the fowls … Come … that ye may eat (corpses)
Ezekiel 39:17-20 (Carrion eaters) filled … with all men of war
Ezekiel 39:11-12 Seven months shall the house of Israel be burying them

13. THE MILLENNIUM:

A. One thousand years of peace:
Revelation 20:1-3 Satan bound a thousand years, and cast into the bottomless pit
B. The saints rule with Jesus over all the earth:
Daniel 2:44 In the days of these kings shall God set up a kingdom
Daniel 7:13-14 There was given (Jesus) a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages,
should serve him
Daniel 7:18, 22, 27 The kingdom … given to the people of saints
Revelation 20:4, 6 They lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years
Revelation 2:26 He that overcometh will I give power over the nations
Revelation 2:27 He shall rule them with a rod of iron (authority)
Revelation 5:10 Made us kings and priests: and we shall reign on earth
(See also 2 Timothy 2:12; 1 Corinthians 6:2; 15:24-25; Psalm 22:27-28; 47:2-3, 7-
8; 72:6-8, 11, 19.)
C. His rule will be just and righteous:
Psalm 67:4 Let the nations be glad … thou shalt judge the people righteously
Psalm 72:3-4 He shall judge the poor … he shall save the children of the needy
Psalm 98:8-9 With righteousness shall judge the world
(See also Psalm 45:6; Isaiah 14:5, 7.)
D. Heavenly conditions of the millennium:
Isaiah 11:6-8 [Peace with animals and nature during the millennium] The wolf shall dwell with
the Lamb … calf and the lion
Isaiah 11:9 Shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain
Isaiah 65:25 The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw
Hosea 2:18 In that day will I make a covenant with the beasts … and I will brake … the sword
E. Men will live for centuries, like before the flood:
Isaiah 65:20 The child shall die an hundred years old

F. Peace on earth:
Isaiah 14:5-7 The whole earth is at rest, and is quiet
Isaiah 2:4 Neither shall they learn war any more(see Micah 4:3.)
Psalm 46:9 He maketh wars to cease [and weapons are destroyed]
G. Everyone on earth will know about the Lord:
Isaiah 2:2-3 All nations shall flow unto … the mountain of the Lord [to learn God’s word]

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Jeremiah 31:34 They shall teach no more … “Know the Lord”: for they shall all know me
Habakkuk 2:14 The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of … the Lord
Psalm 22:27 All the kindred’s of the nations shall worship thee
H. Some will disobey and be punished:
Zechariah 14:16-17 Whoso will not … worship the King … upon them shall be no rain
Psalm 2:8-10 Shalt break them with a rod of iron
Isaiah 26:10 The wicked will not learn righteousness: in the land of uprightness will he deal
unjustly

14. THE BATTLE OF GOD AND MAGOG:

Psalm 2:1-5 The kings of the earth set themselves … against the Lord
Revelation 20:7 When the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed
Revelation 20:8-9 Shall … deceive the nations … gather them to battle
Revelation 20:9 Fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured [the rebels]
2 Peter 3:10-13 Elements shall meltwith fervent heat, the earth also … shall be burned up … [the
atmosphere] being on fire shall be dissolved
Psalm 78:69 The earth which hath established for ever [Only earth’s crust melts; globe is
permanent]
Isaiah 40:4 Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low
[earth’s surface melted down evenly]

15. GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGMENT:

Revelation 20:10 The devil … was cast (directly) into the lake of fire
Revelation 20:11 And I saw a great white throne (in heaven)
John 5:29 And they shall come forth unto the resurrection
Revelation 20:5 Rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished
Revelation 20:12-13 The (unsaved) dead … judged according to their works
Luke 112:47-48 He that knew not … shall be beaten with few stripes [Differences of punishment]
(see also Romans 2:12-14.)
Job 34:10-11 For a work of a man shall he render unto him
Revelation 20:15; 21:8 (Those) not written in the book of life cast into the lake of fire … the second
death

16. NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH:

A. The heavenly city comes down to earth:
Revelation 21:1 And I saw a new (atmospheric) heaven and a new earth … and there was no
more sea [3-4 times more land area]
Revelation 21:10 Holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven (space)
Revelation 21:2 I saw … new Jerusalem, coming down (to earth)
Revelation 21:3 (City) of God is with men, and he will dwell with them

B. Description of the heavenly city:

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Hebrews 11:10 A city … whoso builder and maker is God.
Revelation 21:16 [The city is 2200 kilometers high, wide, and broad]
Revelation 21:12, 17 [The wall around base of the city is 65 meters high]
Revelation 21:14, 18-20 [The wall is made of 12 layers of precious stones]
Revelation 21:12, 21 The twelve gates were twelve (gigantic) pearls
Revelation 21:18 The city was pure gold, like unto clear glass
Revelation 21:21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: every several gates was of one pearl:
and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass
Revelation 21:23, 25 The city had no need of the sun … for the glory of Goddid lighten it …no night
there
Revelation 22:1 A pure river of water of life [flows through city]
Revelation 22:2 On either side of the river, was the tree of life
John 14:2-3 In my Father’s house are many mansions

C. Only saved live in the city; unsaved nations outside:

Revelation 21:24-27 (Only) they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life
Revelation 22:2 Leaves of the tree were of the healing of the (sick) nations
Hebrews 11:13-16 Strangers and pilgrims … [God] prepared for them a city

D. Eternal life and happiness in heaven forever:

Revelation 21:5 Behold, I make all things new
Revelation 22:3 And there shall be no more curse
Revelation 7:17 God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes
Revelation 21:4 Shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any
more pain: for the former things are passed away
Revelation21:7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things
Psalm 36:7-9 Make them drink of the river of my pleasures
Hebrews 13:14 Here have we no city, but we seek one to come

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 MARRIAGE AND THE HOME

Includes marital relations and parental duties

A. God has ordained and blessed marriage
Genesis 2:18 The Lord God said, it is not good that man should live alone; I will make him an
help meet for him
Proverbs 5:18 Be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth
Proverbs 18:22 Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord
Ecclesiastes 9:9 Live joyfully with the wife whom thou loveset all thedays of thy life … which he
(God) hath given thee
Matthew 19:4-5 (God) made them male female … for this cause shall a man leave father and
mother, and cleave to his wife
B. It gives strength and championship:
Genesis 2:18 God said, it is not that man should be alone
Ecclesiastes 4:9-11 Two are better than one. … They have a good reward
1 Peter 3:7 Heirs together of the grace of life
C. Marriage is a commitment:
Matthew 19:4-6 (God) made them male and female for this cause shall a man leave father and
mother, and cleave to his wife. … What therefore God hath joined together, let
no man put asunder.
1 Corinthians 7:10 Unto the married I command … let not the wife depart from her husband (see
also 7:1-17.)

2. A HUSBAND’S RESPONSIBILITY TOWARD HIS WIFE:

A. The husband is to tenderly love his wife:
Ephesians 2:25 Husband, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and give himself
for it
Ephesians 5:28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies
Ephesians 5:33 Let everyone of you … to love his wife even as himself
Colossians 3:19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them

B. The husband is to honour, praise and please his wife:

1 Peter 3:7 Husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the
wife … the weaker vessel
Proverbs 31:28 Her husband also (arises up), and he praiseth her
1 Corinthians 7:33 He that is married careth … how he may please his wife

C. He is to listen to and heed his wife’s wise counsel:

Judges 13:19-23 [Manoah’s wife wisely explained that there was no need to fear]
1 Samuel 25:9-33 [Abigail, the wife of Nabel, wisely pacified David]

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2 Samuel 20:1-2, 7,
13-22 [Wise woman of Abel “went unto all the people in her wisdom” and spared her
city from destruction]
2 kings 4:8-10 [Woman of Shunem] said to her husband … [Elisha] is an holy man of God. Let us
make (him) a chamber
(See also 2 Samuel 14:1-15; Daniel 5:10-12; Matthew 27:19.)

3. A WIFE’S ATTRIBUTE AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

A. The Bible’s description of a virtuous wife:
Proverbs 11:16 A gracious woman retaineth honour
Proverbs 12:4 A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband
Proverbs 19:14 A prudent (wise, understanding) wife is from the Lord
Proverbs 31:10-12 Who can find a virtuous woman? Her price is far above rubies(see also all of
Proverbs 31:10-31.)
Proverbs 31:26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom: and in her tongue is the law of kindness
1 Timothy 3:11 Their wives (should) be grave (reverent) not slanderers
Titus 2:4 Teach the young women to be sober (serious)
Titus 2:5 To be discreet (wise), caste … good, obedient
B. She should guide the home and children:
1 Timothy 5:14 Marry, bear children, guide the house
Psalm 128:3 Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine
Proverbs 14:1 Every wise woman buildeth her house
Proverbs 31:27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of
idleness
1 Timothy 3:11 Even so must their wives be … faithful in all things
Titus 2:4 Teach the young women … to love their children
Titus 2:5 To be … keepers at home (homemakers)
C. Virtue is more important than physical beauty:
Proverbs 11:22 As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a fair woman which is without
discretion (good judgment)
Proverbs 31:30 Beauty is vain, but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised
1 Peter 3:3-5 Whoso adorning let it not be outward [rather] the ornament of a meek and
quite spirit which is (very precious)

4. A WIFE’S RESPONSIBILITY TOWARD HER HUSBAND

A. To be a companion:
Proverbs 31:11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her
Malachai 2:14 She (is) thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant
B. To love and please her husband:
Proverbs 31:12 She will do him good and not evil all days of her life
1 Corinthians 7:34 She that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her
husband

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Titus 2:4 Teach THE young women to … love their husbands,
C. To respect her husband:
Ephesians 5:33 (Let) the wife see that she reverence her husband
Colossians 3:18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord
1 Peter 3:1-6 Wives, be in subjection to your husband [with] … a meek and quite spirit … in
the sight of God
(See also1 Corinthians 11:3, 8-9; Ephesians 5:22; Titus 2:5; 1 Peter 3:1.)

5. SPIRITUAL MINISTRIES ARE NOT RESTRICTED TO MEN:

A. Women’s place in spiritual ministries may equal or surpass men’s:
Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew or Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither
male or female: For ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Romans 2:11 For there is no respect of persons with God.
B. women disciples and leading workers of the early church:
Mark 16:9 [Mary Magdalene was honoured by being the first person to see Jesus after his
resurrection](see also Luke 8:1-3; John 20:1-18.)
John 19:25 [When all his followers-expect John-fled and hid, faithful women stayed with
Jesus at his crucifixion]
(See alsoMatthew 27:55-56.)
Romans 16:1-2 I command to you Phebe … receive her in the Lord … assist her in whatsoever
business she hath need of you
Romans 16:3-4 Priscilla and Aquila my helpers [Priscilla, the wife, was often respectfully
mentioned first] (see also Acts 18:2, 18.)
1 Corinthians 16:16 Submit yourselves unto … every one [women included] that helpeth with us,
and laboureth (See also 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13.)
Philippians 4:3 Help those women which laboured with me in the gospel
(See also Romans 16:6, 12-13; 1Timothy 5:1-2; 2Timothy 4:21.)
C. Wives who were honoured and exalted:
Judges 13:1-10 [Angel appeared to Manoah’s wife twice, later to him]
1Samuel 25: 38-39 [God slew wicked Nabal, but honoured his wife, Abigail, by having her marry
David, future king of Israel]
2 Kings 4:8-37 [The “great woman of Shunem,” not her husband, was the honoured one in the
story](see also 2 Kings 8:1-6.)
Luke 1:26-35 [Archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary first: three months later to Joseph] (see
also Luke 1:56; Matthew 1:18-21.)
Luke 1:46-48 [Mary prophesied:] All generation shall call me blessed (see also Judges 4:17; 2
Samuel 20:1-2, 7, 13-22.)
D. Women prophetesses anointed of the Spirit:
Exodus 15:20-21 Miriam the prophetess [sang a victory song]
Judges 5:1-31 [The victory song of the prophetess Deborah, and Barak]
Luke 1:39-55 [Elizabeth and Mary, filled with the Spirit, prophesied]
Luke 2:36-38 Anna, a prophetess … served God night and day

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Acts 2:17 I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh: your sons and your daughters shall
prophesy (see also Joel 2:28.)
Acts 21:8-9 Philip … had four daughters … which did prophesy
E. A woman who judged God’s people:
Judges 4:4 Deborah, a prophetess … judged Israel at that time
Judges 5:6-7 The inhabitants of the villages ceased … until Deborah arose … a mother in Israel
(see also Judges 4:1-10, 23:24.)

6. HARMONY AND MARITAL PEACE:

A. Harmony is important to a Christian marriage:
Colossians 2:2 Heart … be comforted, being knit together in love
1 Timothy 3:4-5 If a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the
church of God?
1 Peter 3:7 Heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered
1 Peter 4:8 Have fervent charity (love) among yourselves: for (love) shall cover the
multitude of sins(see also Titus 2:5.)
B. Argument should be avoided:
Proverbs 17:9 He that covereth (over) transgression seeketh love
Proverbs 17:14 Leave off contention, before it be meddled with
Proverbs 21:19 It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and an angry
woman (see also Proverbs 25:24.)
Proverbs 27:15 A continual dropping (dripping) in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are
alike(see also Proverbs 19:13.)
Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife
Colossians 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any have a quarrel against
any (see also 1 Peter 3:9.)
Proverbs 41:1 Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh (pulls) it down
(see also Proverbs 24:3.)

7. MARIAGE AND LOVEMAKING:

A. Sex in marriage is pure, holy, and ordained of God:
Hebrews 13:4 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled
1 Corinthians 7:28 If thou marry, thou hast not sinned(see also 7:36.)
B. It was ordained for the procreation of the race:
Genesis 2:23 Male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto
them, “Be fruitful, and multiply”
Malachai 2:15 Did not he make (them) one? Wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed
(See also Jeremiah 29:6.)
C. In marriage, man and woman are joined as “one flesh”
Genesis 2:23 (She) is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh
Mark 10:6-8 God made them male and female … a man (shall) cleave to his wife; and they
shall be one flesh(see also Genesis 2:24.)

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1 Corinthians 6:16 Two, saith he, shall be one flesh
Ephesians 5:31 A man … shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh
D. Conjugal pleasures a gift from God:
Proverbs 5:18 Let thy fountain be blessed with the wife of thy youth
Proverbs 5:19 Let her breasts satisfy thee at all times, and be thou ravished always with her
love
Song of Solomon 7:6-12 How pleasant art thou, O love, for delights
(See also Psalm 19:5; Song of Solomon 1:1, 4, 13; 2:3, 6, 16-17; 4:6, 10-16; 5:4-5;
8:3, 14.)
E. Sex is a marital right, not to be used to punish or reward:
1 Corinthians 7:3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the
wife unto the husband
1 Corinthians 7:4 The wife hath not [exclusive] power over her body, but the husband [also]
1 Corinthians 7:5 Defraud (deprive) ye not one the other, expect it be with (mutual) consent for a
time
F. Husband should treat wives with honour and love, not merely as sexual objects:
1 Thessalonians 4:4-5 Possess his vessel (wife) in … honour; not in the lust of concupiscence (excessive
desire)
8. MARRIAGE VS. CELIBACY:
A. Those who forbid marriage are in error:
1 Timothy 4:1-3 Some shall depart from the faith … forbidding to marry
B. Even priests, bishops, and church officials are advised to marry:
Ezekiel 44:21-22 [Priests given specific instructions on how to marry]
Leviticus 21:10, 13 [Even the high priest was instructed to marry]
Matthew 8:14 [Even the apostle Peter, considered “the first Pope” by some, was married] (see
also 1 Corinthians 9:5.)
1 Timothy 3:2 A bishop then must be … the husband of one wife (see also 1 Timothy 3:11-12.)
C. Celibacy pros and cons:
Genesis 2:18 God said, it is not good that man should be alone
Isaiah 56:4-5 Unto the eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of
heaven’s sake
1 Corinthians 7:9 Let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn

9. DIVORCE, REMARRIAGE, MARITAL INFIDERLITY, AND FOREGIVENESS:

Regarding the Scripture of divorce, remarriage, infidelity, and forgiveness, there are such wide
differences of opinion, interpretation, and application between leading Christian theologians and
denominations today, the editors felt it best to refrain from outlining them here in order to avoid
appearing dogmatic about such a sensitive and personal issues. Some churches believe that the New
Testament forbids divorce and remarriage in any form. Others feel that the passages in question are to
be applied as guidelines tempered with love, mercy, understanding, and judicial allowance. There are
many sincere Christians on both sides of the fence, so the editors felt that the task of doctrinally defining

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this point was best left to the reader’s personal faith and conviction. “Let every man be fully persuaded
in his mind” (Romans 14:5).

10. PARENTAL DUTIES TOWARD THEIR CHILDREN:

A. Parents should teach children in love:
Ephesians 6:4 Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture
and admonition of the Lord
Colossians 3:21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged
B. They should teach them God’s Word:
Deuteronomy 6:7 Thou shalt teach them (God’s words) diligently unto thy children (see also
Deuteronomy 4:9; 11:18-19.)
Deuteronomy 31:12-13 That their children … may learn to fear the Lord
Psalm 78:5 He commanded our fathers that they should make them known to their children
Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in a way he should go
John 21:15 Feed my lambs
C. Parent should provide their needs:
2 Corinthians 12:14 The children ought not to lay up (provide) for the parents, but the parents for
the children
1 Timothy 5:8 If any provide not for his … own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse
than infidel
(See also Acts 20:35; Ephesians 4:28.)
D. The parent should oversee their children:
1 Timothy 3:4 One that ruleth well his house, having his children in subjection with all gravity
(reverence)
1 Timothy 3:12 Ruling their children and their own houses well
E. parents should chastise children when necessary:
Proverbs 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him
betimes (promptly)
Proverbs 19:18 Chasten thy while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying
(See also Proverbs 22:15; Proverbs 23:13.)
F. The bad fruit of being an indulgent parent:
1 Samuel 3:13 His sons made themselves vile, and he retrained them not
1 Kings 1:2, 5-6 His father had not displeased him at any time … saying, “Why hast thou done
so?” (see also 1:16-21.)
Proverbs 29:15 A child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame
Luke 15:12-13 [Father of the prodigal son gave him his share, and the son then went off and
wasted it with riotous living]
G. Beware of partiality:
Genesis 25:28 Isaac loved Esau, because he did eat of the venison: but Rebekah loved Jacob
(see also Genesis 27:6-17.)

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Genesis 37:3-4 Israel loved Joseph more than all his children … his brethren saw [it and] hated
him (see also Genesis 48:21-22; 42:4.)
1 Timothy 5:21 Without preferring one another, doing nothing by partiality
H. Examples of parental concern for children:
(See Genesis 37:14; 2 Samuel 18:29; Esther 2:11.)

I. Example motherly love:

(See Genesis 21:15-16; Exodus 1:22; 2:1-2; Hebrews 11:23; 1 Samuel
1:22-28; 2:18-19; 1 Kings 3:23-27; 2 Kings 4:17-20, 27; Isaiah 49:15;
Matthew 15:22-28; John 19:17-18, 25.)
J.Examples of fatherly love:
(See also Genesis 27:33-35; 2 Samuel 12:15-18; Mark 5:22-23; Luke
15:20-24.)

11. THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAINING YOUR CHILDREN RIGHT:

A. Children will often be no better than their parents:
Ezekiel 16:44 As is the mother, so is her daughter
B. Good influence of parents:
1 Kings 9:4 walk before me, as David thy father walked, in integrity of heart, and in
uprightness (2 Chronicles 17:3.)
2 Chronicles 26:4 He did which was right in the sight of the Lord [as] his father … did (see also 2
Chronicles 20:32.)
2 Timothy 1:5 The unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother … and
thy mother
C. Evil influence of parents:
1 Kings 22:52 He did evil … walked in the way of his father … and mother
2 Chronicles 22:3 His mother was his counselor to do wickedly
Jeremiah 9:14 (They) have walked … after Baalim, which their fathers taught them
(See also Ezekiel 20:18; Amos 2:4; Matthew 14:8.)
12. PARENTS AS “GOOD SHEPHERDS”:
A. Parental responsibility to protect their children:
Exodus 2:1-2 [Moses’ mother defied Pharaoh and hid her baby](see also Hebrews 11:23.)
2 Kings 11:1-3 [Baby Joash’s aunt hid him from the wicked queen]
Matthew 2:13-22 [Joseph was warned of God to flee into Egypt with Mary and baby Jesus, and
only to return when it was safe]
B. Parents’ responsibility to defend their children:
John 10:11-13 The good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep
Nehemiah 4:14 Remember the Lord … and fight … for your sons and daughters
C. God will help you:
Isaiah 49:24-25 I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children

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 CHILDREN

Includes pregnancy, the “right to life,” childbirth, and raising and training children

1. PREGNANCY:
A. Children are a blessing from God:
Psalm 127:3 Children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward
Genesis 49:25 God … shall bless thee with blessings of the … womb
Psalm 113:19 He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of
children
Psalm 127:4-7 Asarrows … so are children … Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them
Psalm 128:1, 3 Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine
Proverbs 17:6 Children’s children are the crown of old men
1 Timothy 5:14 I will therefore that … women marry, bear children
(See also Genesis 30:1; Deuteronomy 33:24; 1 Samuel 1:1-18; Luke 1:42.)

B. God is the one who blesses women with pregnancy:

Genesis 4:1 Adam and Eve … and she conceived, and bear Cain, and said, I have gotten a
man from the Lord
Genesis 4:25 Adam knew his wife again; and she bear a son … God, said she, hath appointed
me another seed
Genesis 25:21 Isaac entreated the Lord for his wife, because she was barren … and Rebekah his
wife conceived
Genesis 30:22-23 God remembered Rachel … and open her womb. And she conceived, and bears
a son
1 Samuel 1:27 For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me
Hebrews 2:13 Behold I and the children which God hath given me
Luke 1:7, 13 Thy prayer is heard; and thy wife … shall bear thee a son
(See also Genesis 33:5; Judges 13:3; 1 Samuel 1:19-20; Psalm 115:14.)

C. God promises to take care of believers’ children:

Psalm 37:25 I have been young and now am old, yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken,
nor his seed begging bread
Proverbs 11:21 The seed of the righteous shall be delivered
Isaiah 65:23 They are the seed of the blessed … and their offspring
(See also Psalm 25:12-13; 102:28; 112:1-2; Proverbs 14:26; Philippians 4:19.)

2. THE LORD’S HAND ON CHILDREN BEFORE BIRTH:

A. God forms children in the womb:
Job 31:15 Did not he that made me in the womb make him? And did not one fashion us in
the womb?
Job 33:4 The Spirit of God hath made me, and … given me life
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Psalm 71:5-6 By thee I have been holden up from the womb
Psalm 139:14-16 I am wonderfully made … in thy book all my members were written, which in
continuance were fashioned (see also Isaiah 44:24.)

B. It is God who gives life and a soul to unborn children:

Job 33:4 The breath of the almighty hath given me life
Genesis 2:7 God … breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul
Acts 17:25 He giveth to all life, and breath

C. His care of children in the womb:

Psalm 139:13 Thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb
Isaiah 40:11 He … shall gently lead those that are with young

D. God loves and children, even before birth:

Psalm 22:10 I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou art my God from my mother’s belly
Isaiah 49:1 The Lord called me from the womb; from the (womb) hath he made mention of
my name
Jeremiah 1:5 Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; before thou camest out of the
womb I sanctified thee
Luke 1:13 [Angel said:] Thy wife … shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John

3. THE BIBLE ON “THE RIGHT TO LIFE”:

Deuteronomy 27:25 Cursed be he that taketh reward to slay an innocent
Leviticus 18:21 Thou shalt not let any of thy seed pass through the fire
Psalm 106:38 Shed innocent blood … of their sons and daughters
Jeremiah 2:34-35 In thy skirts is found the blood … of poor innocent
2 Timothy 3:1-3 In the last days … men [and women] shall lovers of their selves … without
natural affection (love)
4. CHILDBIRTH:
A. God can help in the delivery:
Psalm 22:9 Thou art he that took me out of the womb
Psalm 71:6 Thou art he that took me out of my mother’s bowels
Isaiah 46:3 (They) are borne by me from the belly … from the womb
B. Promises to claim during long labour:
Isaiah 65:23 They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of
the blessed
Isaiah 66:9 Shall I bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth? Shall I cause to bring
forth, and shut the womb?
John 16:21 As soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish,
for the joy that a man is born
Hebrews 11:11 Through faith Sara … was delivered of a child … because she judged him faithful
who had promised

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C. Promises for strength:
Isaiah 40:29-31 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth
strength … renew their strength
Isaiah 41:10 Be not dismayed … I will strengthen thee

D. Conditions for claiming God’s promises:

Daniel 6:16 God whom thou servest continually, will deliver thee
1 Timothy 2:15 She shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity (love)

5 TEACHING AND TRAINING YOUR CHILDREN:

Judges 13:8 Teach us what we shall do unto a child that shall be born

A. God’s care of young children:

Matthew 18:10 In heaven their angels always behold the face of (God)
1 Corinthians 7:14 [Even if only one parent is a believer, the children are sanctified by God]

B. Their early training will guide them all through life:

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in a way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart
from it

C. Give the care and training to your children priority:

Mark 7:27 Let the children first be filled
3 John 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth

D. If you neglect them you’ll both suffer:

Proverbs 29:15 A child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame(see also Matthew 23:23.)

E. You should teach your children the Word:

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 These words … teach them diligently unto thy children
Deuteronomy 11:18-20 Lay these my words in your heart and in your soul … and teach them (to) your
children
Isaiah 38:9 The father to the children shall make known thy truth
Joel 1:3 Tell ye your children … and let your children tell their children, and their children
another generation
John 21:15 Lovest thou me more than these? Feed my lambs
2 Timothy 3:15 From a child (infancy) thou hast known the scriptures
(See also Deuteronomy 31:12-13; Psalm 78:1-6; 1 John 2:13.)
F. Teach your children to trust in God:
Psalm 22:9 Thou didst make me hope when I was upon my mother’s breasts
Psalm 34:11 Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear (reverence) of the
Lord
Psalm 78:6-7 Declare them to [your] children: that they might set their hope in God

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Acts 2:29 For the promise is unto you, and to your children
Hebrews 2:13 I will put my trust in him … I and the children

G. Lead them to receive Jesus:

Mark 10:14 Suffer (allow) the little children to come unto me
Galatians 4:19 My little children, of whom I travail in birth … unto Christ be formed in you
1 John 2:12 I write unto you, little children because your sins are forgiven you for his name’s
sake
H. Only and His Word can teach life’s most important lessons:
Psalm 25:5 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art … God
Proverbs 8:32-33 Hearken unto me, O ye children … keep my ways. Hear instruction, and be wise,
and refuse it not
Isaiah 54:13 All thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be peace of thy
children (John 6:45.)
1 Corinthians 2:13 We speak … words … which the Holy Ghost teacheth

I. Children worshipping of their parents:

Proverbs 1:8-9 My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and … mother
Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: this is right
Colossians 3:20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this well pleasing unto the Lord

B. Children are to honour their parents:

Exodus 20:12 Honour thy father and mother: that thy days may be long
Leviticus 19:3 Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father
Ephesians 6:2 Honour thy father and mother; [this] is the first commandment with promise
(See also Proverbs 20:20; 23:22.)

C. The blessing of having obedient, wise children:

Proverbs 10:1 A wise son maketh a glade father

Proverbs 31:1 A wise heareth his father’s instruction
Proverbs 23:15-16 Son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice
Proverbs 23:24-25 He that begetteth a wise child shall have joy
Proverbs 28:7 Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son
3 John 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth(see also 2 John
4.)
D. The grief of having disobedient, foolish children:
Proverbs 17:21 The father of a fool hath joy
Proverbs 17:25 A foolish son is a grief to his father, and bitterness to her that bare him (his
mother)
Proverbs 19:13 A foolish son is a calamity to his father
Proverbs 10:1 A foolish son is a heaviness of his mother

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7. LOVING INSTRUCTION BALANCED WITH DISCIPLINE:
A. Treat your children gently and in love:
Luke 1:17 He shall … turn heart of the fathers to the children
Ephesians 6:4 Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath
Colossians 3:21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged
1 Thessalonians 2:7 We were gentle … as a nurse cherisheth her children
Titus 2:4 Teach the women … to love their children

B. Patience, mercy, and truth are the most effective:

Ephesians 6:4 Bring them up in the nurture and admiration of the Lord
1 Thessalonians 2:11 We exhorted and comforted and charged (testified to) every one of you, as a
father doth his children
Romans 2:4 The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance
Proverbs 16:6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged

C. Each child is different; seek God how to train and discipline:

Judges 13:12 How shall we order the child, and how shall we do?
(See also Luke 12:47-48.)
D. The Scriptural admonition to correct and discipline when necessary:
Proverbs 13:24 He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him
betimes (promptly)
Proverbs 23:13 Withhold not correction from the child
Proverbs 29:17 Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest … delight

E. Christian required to train their children:

1 Timothy 3:4 That ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity
1 Timothy 3:12 Ruling their children and their own houses well
Titus 1:6 Blameless … having faithful children not … unruly
(See also Galatians 4:1-2.)

F. Even with right training, some children will go wrong:

1 Samuel 8:1-3, 5 [Righteous Samuel’s sons became corrupt and covetous]
Mark 13:12-13 [In the last days, some backslidden children will betray their Christians parents]
(see also Matthew 24:10.) (See also Proverbs 2:16-18.)
1. Partiality and favouritism causes problems:
Genesis 25:27-28. Isaac loved Esau…but Rebekah loved Jacob [and helped Jacob deceive old father
Isaac-Genesis 27:1-18]
Genesis 37:3-4 Israel loved Joseph more than all his children … when his brethren saw (it), they
hated him

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8. THE GROWING YEARS:
A. Be considerate of children’s limitations:
Genesis 33:12-14 The children are tender [young] … I will lead on softy according as the … children
be able to endure
B. Growing up and maturing:
Isaiah 28:9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? And … make to understand doctrine? Them
that are weaned
Hebrews 5:14 Strong meat (doctrine) belongeth to them … of full age
C. Becoming a teen, a young adult:
1 Corinthians 13:11 When I became a man, I put away childish things
Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children
1 Corinthians 14:20 Be not children in understanding: in malice be ye children, but in understanding
be men (mature)
Ecclesiastes 12:1 Remember now thy creator in the days of thy youth
1 Timothy 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in
conversation, charity, faith
D. Examples of teens and young men serving God:
Jeremiah 1:4-9 [Teenage Jeremiah called to proclaim God’s words]
1 Samuel 16:1, 10-13 [David anointed to be king when just a teen](see also 16:14-23; 17:32-37, 49.)
Acts 23:12-24 [The apostle Paul’s teenage nephew saves his life]
Acts 16:1-3 [Paul chose young Timothy to be his helper and travelling companion](see also 1
Timothy 4:12.)

9. BECOMING LIKE CHILDREN:

A. You must have the faith of a child to be saved:
Matthew 18:3 Expect ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the
kingdom of heaven
Matthew 18:4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child … is greatest in the
kingdom of heaven
Mark 10:15 Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not
enter therein

B. In relation to God, we are children:

Deuteronomy 8:5 As a man chasteneth his son, so the Lord thy God chasteneth thee
1 Kings 3:7 [King Solomon told God:] I am but a little child
Psalm 103:13 Like a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him
Ephesians 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children
(See also Isaiah 63:15-16; Malachi 3:17; Galatians 4:3-7.)

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 SLEEP
1. SLEEP CONSIDERED A BLESSING:
A. Trust in God to bless you with sleep:
Psalm 3:5 I laid me down and slept; for the Lord sustained me
Psalm 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep
Psalm 127:2 He giveth his beloved sleep
Ecclesiastes 5:12 The sleep of a labouring man is sweet
Jeremiah 31:26 I awaked, and beheld; and my sleep was sweet unto me
B. God gives freedom from fear and sweet sleep:
Psalm 91:5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night
Proverbs 3:24 Not be afraid … shalt lie down, and thy sleep be sweet
Acts 12:6 [Peter able to sleep in prison] bound with two chains
C. Rest in the Lord and sleep through anything:
Ezekiel 34:25 Dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods
Matthew 8:24 Tempest … ship covered with waves: but he was asleep
2. IF YOU CAN’T SLEEP, PRAY:
Psalm 42:8 In the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer
Psalm 63:5-6 When I … mediate on thee in the night watches
Isaiah 26:9 With my soul have I desired thee in the night
Lamentation 2:19 Arise, cry out in the night … pour out thine heart
(See also Psalm 4:4; 119:55.)
3. SOME REASONS FOR NOT BEING ABLE TO SLEEP:
A. When the Lord wants to speak to you:
1 Samuel 3:3-10 Samuel was laid down to sleep … the Lord called
Job 4:12-17 In the night, when deep sleep falleth on men, a spirit passed before my face … I
heard a voice
B. Sometimes God allows it to work out His will:
Esther 6:1-3 On that night could not the king (Ahasuerus) sleep
C. When worried or troubled:
Psalm 77:3-4 Thou holdest mine eyes walking: I am so troubled
Ecclesiastes 2:23 His days are sorrows … taketh not rest in the night
Ecclesiastes 5:12 Abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep
Daniel 6:14-18 [King Darius passed the night fasting, unable to sleep]
(See also Psalm 6:6.)
D. Because of unusual dreams:
Daniel 2:1 His spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him
Job 7:13-14 Then thou scarest me with dreams, and visions
E. When God is testing you, as He did Job:
Job 7:3-4 Wearisome night are appointed unto me … I am full of tossing to and fro unto
dawning if the day
F. Punishment for disobeying God:

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Deuteronomy 28:58 I thou wilt not observe … thou shalt fear day and night … shalt say, “Would God
it were morning”
G. Be considerate of those who are sleeping:
Proverbs 27:4 He hath blesseth his friend with a loud voice,rising early … it shall be counted a
curse on him
Song of Solomon 2:7 Stir not up, nor awake my love, till he please
4. GOD REASONS FOR MISSING SLEEP:
A. To pray fervently:
1 Samuel 15:11 It grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the Lord all night
Luke 6:12 (Jesus) continued all night in prayer to God
1 Thessalonians 3:10 Night and day praying exceedingly (to) see your face
B. to rise early and pray:
1 Samuel 1:19 They rose up in the morning early, and worshipped
Mark 1:35 Rising up a great while before day … Jesus prayed
Psalm 57:8-9 Awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O Lord
Psalm 119:147 I prevented (was up before) the dawning of the morning, and cried: I hope in thy
word
C. To do your job:
Genesis 31:38-40 [Jacob frequently sacrificed sleep for 20 years because of diligent shepherding]
D. Caution about getting overtired:
Psalm 127:2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late … for so he giveth his beloved
sleep
Acts 20:7-9 Etuychus, being fallen into a deep sleep … fell down
5. WHEN IT IS NOT GOOD TO SLEEP:
A. Don’t oversleep when you should be working:
Proverbs 6:9 How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard?
Proverbs 6:10-11 A little sleep, a little slumber … folding of hands: so shall thy poverty come (see
also Proverbs 24:33-34.)
Proverbs 10:5 He that sleepeth in harvest … son that causeth shame
Proverbs 20:13 Love not sleep, lest thou come to poverty
Proverbs 26:14 As the door truneth upon hinges, so doth the slothful
B. Times to rise and pray:
John 1:4-6 O sleeper … arise, call upon thy God
Mark 14:37-41 Sleepest thou? Couldst thou not watch one hour? Watch ye and pray, lest ye
enter into temptation
Luke 22:46 Why sleep ye? Rise and pray, lest ye enter temptation
C. When something important needs to be done first:
Psalm 132:3-5 I will not give sleep to mine eyes, until I find
Proverbs 6:1-4 Do this now … give not sleep to thine eyes, nor slumber
D. Oversleeping can be cause by laziness or unconcern for others:
Proverbs 19:15 Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep
Isaiah 56:10-11 Watchmen are blind … sleeping, loving to slumber

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E. Sleep can symbolize spiritual insensitivity:
Romans 13:11-12 Knowing the time …. now it is high time to awake
Ephesians 5:14 Awake thou that sleepest … Christ shall give thee light
1 Thessalonians 5:4-8 Let us not sleep … let us watch and be sober
6. TRUSTING THE LORD TO AWAKEN YOU:
A. When you’ve slept enough and need to rise:
Isaiah 50:4 (God) wakeneth (me) morning by morning … to hear
Zechariah 4:1 And the angel that talked with me … walked me
B. To flee danger:
Matthew 2:13-14 Angel … appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise … flee. He arose … by
night, and [left with Jesus and Mary]
Acts 12:4-7 Peter [slept] … angel of the Lord … smote Peter on the side, and raised him up,
saying, Arise up quickly
C. To give something you need:
1 Kings 19:5-7 [Angel woke Elijah up twice and give him food and water]
D. He awakens you after giving you an important message:
Matthew 1:24 Joseph being raised from sleep did as angel had bidden

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 OLD AGE
1. THE BLESSINGS OF OLD AGE:

A. Old age has its own beauty and glory:

Proverbs 16:31 The hoary (grey) head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of
righteousness
Proverbs 20:29 The beauty of old man is the grey head

B. God’s Word says that the elderly should be honoured and respected:
Leviticus 19:32 Thou shalt rise up [in respect] before the hoary head, and honour the face of
the old man
Job 32:4, 6 Elihu had waited till Job [and the others] had spoken, because they were elder
than he
Proverbs 23:22 Hearken unto thy father … and despise not (respect) thy mother when she is old

C. The passing of years usually brings wisdom:

Job 12:12 With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding
Job 32:7 Days should speak, and multitude of years … teach wisdom
1 Kings 12:1-16 [King Rehoboam’s folly in not following the wise advice of the old men]

D. Long years of trusting the Lord brings assurance:

Psalm 37:25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken

E. We shouldn’t be sad about old age:

Ecclesiastes 11:10 Remove sorrow from thy heart … for childhood and youth are vanity

2. GOD’S HELP IN OUR LOD AGE:

Isaiah 46:4 Even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you … and will
deliver you
(See also Psalm 71:8-9, 17-18.)

3. DESIRING LONG LIFE:

A. Before the flood, people lived to very great ages:
(See also Genesis 5:1-32; 7:11; 9:28-29.)

B. After the flood, lifespans became shorter:

(See also Genesis 11:10-32; 25:7-8, 17; 35:28; 47:8-9; Deuteronomy 34:7; Joshua 24:29.)

C. Today’s average lifespan:

Psalm 90:10 The days of our years are (seventy); and if by reason of strength they be (eighty)
years
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D. Old a blessing for righteous life:
2 Chronicles 24:15 [Godly Jehoidah lived to 130 years of age, at a time when most men only to be
70]
Genesis 15:15 Thou shalt go to thy father in peace … in good old age
Genesis 25:8 Abraham … died in a good old age … full of years
Deuteronomy 34:7 Moses was an 120 years old when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural
force abated
1 Corinthians 29:28 He died in a good old age, full of days, riches, and honour
Job 5:26 Thou shalt come to thy grave in a full age, like as a (sheave of grain is gathered)
in his season
Psalm 91:14, 16 He hath set his love on me … with long life will I satisfy him
Isaiah 65:22 As the days of a tree are the days of my people, and mine elect shall long enjoy
the work of their hands
Zechariah 8:3-4 There shall yet [be] old men and old women … every man with his staff in his
hand for very age

E. How to obtain the blessing of longevity:

Deuteronomy 5:33 Walk in all the ways which the Lord … commanded you, that ye may live …
prolong your days
Deuteronomy 30:20 Love the Lordthy God … obey his voice … for he is thy life, and the length of thy
days
Psalm 34:12-14 what man … desireth life, and loveth many days? Keep thy tongue from evil and
guile … do good; seek peace
Proverbs 3:1-2 Let thine heart keep my commandments: for length of days, and long life … shall
they add to thee
Proverbs 9:10-11 For by me (wisdom) thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall
be increased
Proverbs 10:27 The of the Lord prolongeth days
(See also Proverbs 3:13, 16; 4:7, 10-11; 1 Peter 3:10-11; Exodus 20:12.)

F. Praying for more time to live and serve the Lord:

2 Kings 20:1-7 [God revived ailing King Hezekiah and gave him 15 more years to live]
Psalm 71:18 Forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and … to
everyone that is to come

G. Keeping up the will to help others:

Philippians 1:23-25 Having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ … [but] to abide in the flesh is
more needful to you

H. God sometimes revealed to men their time of departing:

Psalm 39:4 Lord, make me to know … the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know
how frail I am

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Psalm 90:12 Teach us to remember our days, that we may apply heart unto wisdom
Luke 2:26 It was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death,
before he had seen … Christ
2 Timothy 4:6-7 I am now ready … the time of my departure is at hand
2 Peter 1:14 Shortly I must put off this tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed
me
2 Kings 2:3 Knowest thou that the Lord will take (Elijah) away today?

I. They often gave parting instructions to their family:

Genesis 49:1, 33 [Dying Jacob called his sons and gave them instructions, and when finished,
“gave up the ghost”]
(See also Genesis 50:22-26; 1 Kings 2:1-3, 10.)

J. The futility of worrying that our time has come:

Genesis 27:1-4 [Aged Isaac thought he was about to die, but lived many more years and died
when 180-Genesis 35:28-29]
1 Samuel 27:1 [David despaired:] I shall perish one day by the hand of Saul [but lived over 40
years more]
(See also Hebrews 2:15.)

K. Trusting God to keep you alive until His appointed time:

Job 7:1 Is there not an appointed time to man upon earth?
Psalm 31:15 My times are in thy hand
Psalm 48:14 God … is our guide even unto death

L. Sometimes not living to old age is a greater blessing:

Genesis 5:23-24 [Enoch lived only 1/3rd the lifespan of his day; God took him because he pleased
Him](see also Hebrews 11:5.)
Isaiah 57:1 Merciful men are taken away … the righteous is taken away from the evil to
come(see also 1 Kings 14:12-13.)

4. GOD CAN MIGHTLY USE AGED BELIEVERS:

A. Promises of fruitfulness:
Psalm 92:13-14 They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be (fresh) and flourishing
B. Material ministering and good deeds:
2 Samuel 19:32-35 [Barzillai, 80 years old, helped support King David in his time of great need](see
also 2 Samuel 17:27-29.)
C. Spiritual ministries:
Exodus 7:7 [Moses was 80 years old when he led the exodus]
Joel 2:28 I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and … your old men shall dream dreams
(see also Acts 2:16-17.)
Daniel 9:1; 10:1 [Daniel received two of his greatest revelations between the age of 85 and 90]

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Revelation 1:1, 9 [The apostle John received the Book of Revelation in exile on Patmos, in his 80s
and 90s]
D. Some conditions to being used of God:
Titus 2:2-3 Aged men be sober, (reverent), temperate, sound in faith, in love, in patience
[that they may teach]
E. The ministry of prayer:
1 Samuel 12:1-2, 16, 19 [Samuel, aged and grey-headed, prayed and the Lord performed a miracle to
punish the errant Israelites]
Luke 2:36-37 Anna, a prophetess … of about (84 years old), served God with fasting and
prayers night and day
1 Timothy 5:5, 9 [Prayer, a special ministry of women over 60]
F. Witnessing:
Luke2:36-38 [Anna, 84 years old, witnessed to others about Jesus]
Philemon 1:9-11, 16 Paul the aged [led Onesimus to receive Jesus]
Acts 28:30-31 [Paul witnessed to all those who to visit him](see also 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:15.)

G. God can use those who think they are too old:
Genesis 18:10-14;
21:1-2 [Sarah, at 90, laughs and doubts she can have a child]
(See also Genesis 17:15-17; Luke 1:36.)
H. God sometimes doesn’t really use us until we’re older and wiser:
Acts 7:23-24 [Moses tried to start his life’s work at 40, but was not really ready for it until it
was 80]
I. Keep faithfully serving Jesus till our parting day:
2 Peter 1:12-15 I think it meet, as long as I am in his (body), to stir you up [and establish you in
the truth]
J. Steadfastly enduring adversity in old age:
Philemon 9-10 Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner … in bonds
Revelation 1:9 [John, in his 80s or 90s, exiled to the isle of Patmos]

5. STRENGTH IN OLD AGE:

A. God can give us strength and health:
Deuteronomy 33:25 As the days, so shall thy strength be
Deuteronomy 34:7 [Moses at 120 years old] … his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated
Isaiah 40:29 To them that have no might he increaseth strength.

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 a. Better to tru

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