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Topic: Our Relationship with God Romans 4:5—"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that
justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness." (cf.
Title: Faith in God, Part 3 Galatians 3:8)
Memory Verse: Hebrews 11:1—"Now faith is the substance of things Faith in God justifies us and makes us righteous. It is not by our works
hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." but by believing in God that we are declared righteous in His sight.
Introduction 5.​ Joy and inner peace are results of faith:
Faith is a fundamental aspect of our relationship with God. It is through Romans 15:13—"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in
faith that we experience the many blessings and benefits that come believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy
from being in a relationship with Him. Faith is more than just believing in Ghost."
God; it is trusting Him in every aspect of our lives and experiencing the
tangible outcomes of this trust. Faith in God brings joy and inner peace. Believing in Him fills us with
hope and gives us a sense of contentment and tranquility.
6.​ Victory over the world is a result of faith:
The Dividends of Faith: What are the benefits of faith?
1 John 5:4—"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and
1.​ Salvation is by faith: this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith."
Ephesians 2:8—"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of Faith empowers us to overcome the challenges and trials of the world. It
yourselves: it is the gift of God:" is through our faith that we gain victory and stand strong against
Faith is essential for salvation. It is through faith in Jesus Christ that we adversities.
receive God's grace and are saved from our sins. This salvation is a gift 7.​ Strength to stand for Christ comes by faith:
from God, not something we can earn on our own.
2 Corinthians 1:24—"Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but
2.​ Adoption into God's family is the result of faith in Christ: are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand." (cf. 2 Corinthians 4:13;
Galatians 3:26—"For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Isaiah 26:4)
Jesus." Faith gives us the strength to stand firm in our beliefs and follow Christ.
Faith in Jesus Christ brings us into God's family. By believing in Him, we It supports us in staying steadfast and committed to our faith.
become children of God, adopted into His spiritual family.
3.​ Divine guidance is a result of faith: Conclusion
Proverbs 3:5-6—"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto Faith in God brings numerous benefits to our lives. It is through faith
thine own understanding. [6] In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he that we receive salvation, become part of God's family, experience
shall direct thy paths." divine guidance, and are justified and made righteous. Faith also fills us
When we have faith in God, we trust Him to guide us in our lives. By with joy and peace, helps us overcome the world, and gives us the
relying on His wisdom rather than our own, He directs our paths and strength to stand firm for Christ. By nurturing our faith, we can deepen
leads us in the right direction. our relationship with God and experience His blessings in every aspect
of our lives.
4.​ Justification and righteousness are the results of faith:

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Topic: Our Relationship with God ➔​ The Israelites' faith led to the miraculous fall of Jericho's walls.
Title: Faith in God, Part 4 Daniel saw God stop the mouths of lions (11:33; Daniel 6:19).
Memory Verse: Hebrews 11:1—"Now faith is the substance of things ➔​ Daniel's faith protected him from harm in the lions' den.
hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." The three Hebrew children saw God quench the violence of fire (11:34;
Introduction Daniel 3:25).
Faith in God plays a crucial role in our relationship with Him. It is ➔​ The faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego saved them from
through faith that we experience the fullness of God's blessings and the fiery furnace.
promises. Faith is not just believing in God but trusting Him completely Women saw their dead raised to life again (11:35).
in every aspect of our lives. This faith leads to many wonderful
➔​ Faith led to the resurrection of the dead, bringing joy and hope.
outcomes, or dividends, that enhance our spiritual journey.
1.​ The greatness of God's goodness comes to those who trust
Him:
The Dividends of Faith: What are the benefits of faith? Psalm 31:19—"Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for
1.​ Answered prayer is a result of faith: them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee
Matthew 21:22—"And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, before the sons of men!"
believing, ye shall receive." Trusting in God allows us to experience His immense goodness and
When we pray with faith, believing that God hears and answers our blessings in our lives.
prayers, we see the results. Faith is essential for effective prayer. 2.​ God's blessing is upon those who trust Him:
2.​ Boldness and access to God come by faith in Christ: Psalm 40:4—"Blessed is that man that maketh the Lord his trust, and
Ephesians 3:12—"In whom we have boldness and access with respecteth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies." (cf. Jeremiah
confidence by the faith of him." 17:7-8; Psalm 34:8; 84:12)
Faith in Jesus Christ gives us the boldness to approach God with Trusting in God brings His blessings. When we place our trust in Him
confidence. It assures us that we have direct access to God through rather than in worldly things, we are blessed with His favor and
Christ. protection.
3.​ Mighty works of God are the result of faith (Hebrews 11):
Sara received strength to have a child when she was 89 years old Conclusion
(11:11). Faith in God brings numerous benefits to our lives. It leads to answered
➔​ Sara's faith allowed her to conceive a child despite her old age. prayers, boldness and access to God, and mighty works. Faith also
allows us to experience God's immense goodness and receive His
Israel passed through the Red Sea on dry land (11:29).
blessings. By nurturing our faith and trusting in God completely, we can
➔​ The faith of the Israelites enabled them to cross the Red Sea deepen our relationship with Him and enjoy the full extent of His
safely. promises.
The walls of Jericho fell down (11:30).

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Topic: Our Relationship with God 6.​ We should hold fast the profession of faith:
Hebrews 10:23—"Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering;
Title: The Duties of Faith, Part 5
(for he is faithful that promised;)"
Introduction
Holding fast to our profession of faith means remaining steadfast in our beliefs
Faith in God is not just a belief; it comes with certain duties and responsibilities. and not wavering. It involves being confident in God's faithfulness and promises.
These duties help us grow closer to God and strengthen our relationship with
7.​ We should have full assurance of faith:
Him. By fulfilling these requirements of faith, we live a life that pleases God and
reflects His love and grace. Hebrews 10:22—"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith,
having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with
The Duties of Faith: What are the duties of faith?
pure water."
1.​ We should live by faith:
Full assurance of faith means having complete confidence in God's promises and
Romans 1:17—"For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to being free from doubt. It involves approaching God with a sincere and pure
faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith." heart.
Living by faith means trusting in God's righteousness and relying on Him in 8.​ We should trust in God and not in man:
every aspect of our lives. It involves making decisions based on our faith and
Psalm 118:8—"It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man."
beliefs.
Psalm 20:7-8—"Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember
2.​ We should walk by faith: the name of the Lord our God. [8] They are brought down and fallen: but we are
2 Corinthians 5:7—"(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)" risen, and stand upright."
Walking by faith means trusting in God’s guidance even when we cannot see the Trusting in God rather than in human strength or resources ensures that our faith
outcome. It involves following God’s path with confidence, knowing that He is placed in the right foundation. It involves depending on God's power and
leads us. wisdom above all else.
3.​ We should pray for our faith to be increased: 9.​ We should trust the Lord at all times:
Luke 17:5—"And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith." Psalm 62:8—"Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him:
God is a refuge for us. Selah."
It is important to pray for our faith to grow. Asking God to strengthen our faith
helps us trust Him more and face challenges with confidence. Trusting in God at all times means relying on Him in every situation, whether
good or bad. It involves pouring out our hearts to Him and finding refuge in His
4.​ We should abound in faith:
presence.
2 Corinthians 8:7—"Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and
Conclusion
utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye
abound in this grace also." The duties of faith involve living by faith, walking by faith, praying for increased
faith, abounding in faith, being strong in faith, holding fast to our profession of
Abounding in faith means growing and excelling in our faith. It involves
faith, having full assurance of faith, trusting in God rather than in man, and
deepening our relationship with God through continuous learning and
trusting the Lord at all times. By fulfilling these requirements, we strengthen our
dedication.
relationship with God and experience His guidance, protection, and blessings in
5.​ We should be strong in faith: our lives.
Romans 4:20—"He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but
was strong in faith, giving glory to God."
Being strong in faith means standing firm in our beliefs without wavering. It
involves trusting in God's promises and giving Him glory even in difficult times.

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Topic: Our Relationship with God ○​ The Church is introduced as both a physical and spiritual entity.
Title: Worship of God, Part 1
These distinctions reflect the transition from the Old Covenant to the New
Memory Verse: John 4:24—"God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must Covenant, emphasizing a more personal and spiritual connection with God.
worship him in spirit and in truth."
Introduction
Worship is an essential aspect of our relationship with God. It is through worship B. God is worthy of honor and praise:
that we acknowledge God's greatness and express our love, reverence, and Revelation 4:11—"Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and
adoration for Him. Understanding the true meaning of worship helps us honor power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were
God in the way He deserves. created."
Discussion (Partner discussion)
1.​ The Person to Worship—God This verse provides powerful insights into why God is worthy of honor and praise:

A. Worship means worthy of respect:

Worship is about showing deep respect and reverence.
1. God as the Creator
In the Old Testament, the word for worship (sachah) means "to bow down," like ●​ The verse highlights that God is the Creator of all things. Everything that
you would before a king or superior. exists—whether in heaven or on earth—was brought into being by His
In the New Testament, the word for worship (proskuneo) means "to do will and power.
reverence" or "to bow in respect." It involves acknowledging God's name, ●​ Creation itself is a testament to His greatness, wisdom, and sovereignty,
attributes, and deeds with our hearts in praise and thanksgiving or through our making Him deserving of our worship and adoration.
actions.

Adam Clarke's commentary highlights key differences between worship in the

2. God's Sovereignty
Old Testament and New Testament:
●​ The phrase "by your will they were created and have their being"
1.​ Old Testament Worship: emphasizes that all creation owes its existence to God’s deliberate and
○​ Worship was centralized in specific locations like the Tabernacle sovereign choice.
or Temple. ●​ This reflects His absolute authority and control over all things, which
○​ Rituals and offerings were prescribed, including feasts and inspires awe, reverence, and praise.
sacrifices.
○​ Worship was often physical acts or works, with God as the 3. God’s Worthiness
central focus.
○​ There was limited knowledge of Christ, as the Old Testament ●​ The verse repeatedly affirms that God is inherently worthy of receiving
pointed towards Jesus. glory, honor, and power. This worthiness is not based on external
2.​ New Testament Worship: factors—it is intrinsic to His nature as the eternal, omnipotent, and holy
○​ Worship is no longer tied to a physical location; the worshipper God.
becomes the temple. ●​ His worthiness of worship is absolute and unchanging, regardless of
○​ It emphasizes worship in Spirit and Truth, moving beyond circumstances or human perspectives.
physical rituals.
○​ Ministry is open to all people, not restricted to specific families.

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4. Acknowledgment in Heaven action to approach God with humility and awe, recognizing His
divine majesty.
●​ Revelation 4 is set in the throne room of heaven, where celestial
beings—elders, angels, and other heavenly creatures—offer continuous 4. Worship in Holiness
worship to God. This reflects the universal recognition of His glory and
majesty. ●​ "Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness" signifies that worship
●​ If heavenly beings, who dwell in His presence, eternally honor Him, how must be aligned with God’s holy nature. Our worship should be pure,
much more should we, His creation, do the same! reverent, and sincere, reflecting the holy character of God. It reminds
us to examine our hearts and ensure that our worship is genuine and
God is worthy of all honor and praise because He created everything for His pleasing to Him.
pleasure.
C. We are commanded to worship the LORD: Context of 1 Chronicles 16
1 Chronicles 16:29—"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an
offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness." This passage is part of a celebratory psalm sung by David when the Ark of the
Covenant was brought to Jerusalem. It was a moment of joy and reverence,
This verse emphasizes worship as a direct command from God and provides marking God’s presence among His people. David’s psalm, including this verse, is
insight into the significance of worship: a call for all of Israel to worship God wholeheartedly. It reflects the communal
and individual duty of worship as a central aspect of their relationship with God.

1. Worship is God's Due We are instructed to give God the glory He deserves and worship Him with
offerings and in holiness.
●​ The phrase "ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name" indicates that D. We are not to worship anything else:
worship is a fundamental response to who God is. His greatness,
holiness, and sovereignty demand recognition and honor. Worship is Exodus 20:3-5—"Thou shalt have no other gods before me. [4] Thou shalt not
not optional or merely ceremonial—it's a rightful acknowledgment make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven
of God’s unmatched glory. above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: [5]
Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God
am a jealous God..."
2. Bringing an Offering Matthew 4:10—"Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is
written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve."
●​ The act of "bringing an offering" highlights that worship involves
giving—whether it’s a physical offering, a sacrifice, or the offering of God commands us to worship only Him and not to bow down to idols or other
our hearts. It demonstrates devotion, reverence, and obedience to God’s gods.
command to honor Him. E. God will not share His glory with anyone or anything else:
Isaiah 42:8—"I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to
3. Coming Before God another, neither my praise to graven images."

●​ The command to "come before him" underscores the importance of God makes it clear that He will not share His glory with others or with idols.
being present in God’s presence. Worship calls for an intentional
F. God will not accept worship from those whose hearts are not right with
Him:

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Amos 5:12, 21-23—"For I know your manifold transgressions and your mighty
sins: they afflict the just, they take a bribe, and they turn aside the poor in the
gate from their right. [21] I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in
your solemn assemblies. [22] Though ye offer me burnt offerings and your meat
offerings, I will not accept them: neither will I regard the peace offerings of your
fat beasts. [23] Take thou away from me the noise of thy songs; for I will not
hear the melody of thy viols."

Why God Rejects Worship from Hearts Not Right with Him (Amos
5:12, 21-23):

1.​ Hypocrisy in Worship:

○​ In Amos 5:12, God denounces the injustices of Israel, pointing
out their sins, including oppression of the poor and corruption.
Despite their outward religious practices, their actions
contradicted the righteousness God desired.
○​ In verses 21-23, God explicitly rejects their festivals, sacrifices,
and songs, emphasizing that He despises hollow rituals when
their lives are filled with sin. Worship disconnected from genuine
repentance and obedience is empty and offensive to God.

God rejects worship from those whose lives are full of sin and injustice. True
worship must come from a heart that is right with Him.
Conclusion
Worshiping God is a vital part of our relationship with Him. It involves showing
deep respect and reverence for God, acknowledging His greatness, and living a
life that honors Him. True worship is not just about outward actions but comes
from a heart that is right with God. By understanding the true meaning of
worship and following the commands to worship God alone, we strengthen our
relationship with Him and experience His presence in our lives.

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Topic: Our Relationship with God Ephesians 6:4—"And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but
Title: Worship of God, Part 2 bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." New
Testament believers are expected to continue this practice.
Memory Verse: John 4:24—"God is a Spirit: and they that worship him
must worship him in spirit and in truth." 3.​ Public Worship

Introduction 4.​ Church Activity:

Worship is a key element of our relationship with God. It is through Public worship is an important activity for the church. Gathering
worship that we show our respect, love, and admiration for Him. together to worship God strengthens our faith and encourages us
Understanding where and how to worship helps us to connect with God to love and do good works.
on a deeper level and live a life that honors Him. Biblical Basis:
Discussion Hebrews 10:23-25—"Let us hold fast the profession of our faith
1.​ Private Worship without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) [24] And let
us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
Importance: [25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the
The Bible emphasizes the need for private worship. Before we can manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the
worship with our family or in public, we must first worship in our hearts. more, as ye see the day approaching."
Private worship is a personal and intimate time with God where we can 1.​ Historical Context:
express our love, gratitude, and devotion to Him. ❖​ Old Testament:
2.​ Family Worship The tabernacle and temple were the centers of public worship.
Biblical Emphasis: ❖​ New Testament:
God places much emphasis on family worship. It is important for In the time of Christ and the early church, the temple and synagogues
families to come together to worship God and teach His Word. were the places of public worship.
Examples: ❖​ Today:
A.​ Passover: Churches are the centers of public worship for Christians. They provide a
Exodus 12:3, 26-27; 13:8—The Passover was instituted as a family space for believers to come together to worship God, learn from His
celebration. Fathers were to explain the meaning of the event to their Word, and support each other in their faith journey.
children, ensuring that the knowledge of God's deliverance was passed Conclusion
down through generations.
Worshiping God is a vital part of our relationship with Him. It includes
B.​ Instructing Children: private worship, family worship, and public worship. Each aspect of
Deuteronomy 6:7, 20-25—Fathers were to instruct their children in the worship plays a crucial role in helping us connect with God and live a life
Word of God, teaching them His commandments and the significance of that honors Him. By understanding and practicing worship in these
His works. different settings, we can deepen our relationship with God and
experience His presence in our lives.

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Topic: Our Relationship with God 4.​ Fasting

Title: Elements of Worship, Part 1 Definition: Fasting shows that God is more important than daily food.
Memory Verse: John 4:24—"God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must ○​ Biblical References:
worship him in spirit and in truth." ❖​ Judges 20:26—The Israelites fasted in times of distress.
Introduction ❖​ 1 Samuel 7:6—The Israelites fasted and sought the Lord's help.
❖​ Ezra 8:21-23—Ezra fasted for God's protection.
Worshiping God is an essential part of our relationship with Him. Worship
❖​ Psalm 35:13—David fasted in humility.
involves various elements that help us connect with God and express our love,
❖​ Matthew 4:2—Jesus fasted before His ministry.
respect, and gratitude for Him. Understanding these elements allows us to
❖​ Acts 13:2-3; 14:23—The early church fasted during important decisions.
worship God in spirit and truth, as He desires.
❖​ Matthew 6:16-18—Jesus taught to fast without seeking attention.
Discussion
Significance: Fasting is a sign of humility and sincerity, showing our
1.​ Praise dependence on God.
Definition: Praise means to honor and give glory to the Lord. 5.​ Confession of Faith in Christ
○​ Biblical References: Requirement: Believers should confess Christ as their Savior.
❖​ Psalm 96:1-9—Sing to the Lord and declare His glory among the nations. ○​ Biblical Reference:
❖​ Psalm 99:5, 9—Exalt the Lord and worship at His holy hill.
❖​ Matthew 10:32-33—"Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men,
❖​ Luke 24:52-53—The disciples continually praised and worshiped God.
him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. [33] But
Significance: Praising God involves acknowledging His greatness and giving whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my
Him the respect and reverence He deserves. Father which is in heaven."
2.​ Scripture Significance: Confessing our faith publicly affirms our commitment to Jesus and
Importance: Reading and understanding the Bible is fundamental to Christian encourages others.
worship. 1.​ Ordinances
○​ Biblical Reference: ❖​ Baptism: A public confession of new life in Christ, identifying with His
❖​ Psalm 119:97—"O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day." death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:1-11).
❖​ The Lord's Supper: A memorial of Christ's atoning death on the cross,
Significance: Meditating on God's Word inspires us to worship Him and deepens
allowing for deep meditation on His sacrifice (1 Corinthians 11:23-31).
our understanding of His will.
Significance: These practices are acts of obedience and remembrance that
3.​ Prayer
strengthen our faith.
Definition: Prayer is communication between man and God.
Conclusion
○​ Biblical References:
The elements of worship, such as praise, Scripture, prayer, fasting,
❖​ Psalm 100:4—"Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his
confession of faith, and ordinances, are essential aspects of our
courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name."
❖​ Psalm 95:2-7—Come before the Lord with thanksgiving and praise.
relationship with God. Each element helps us connect with God and
❖​ Matthew 6:9—Jesus taught us to pray with the Lord's Prayer. express our love and gratitude for Him. By understanding and practicing
these elements, we can deepen our worship and experience a closer
Significance: Through prayer, we express our gratitude, praise, and requests to
relationship with God.
God, focusing our thoughts on Him.