BUILDING ON THE ROCK COURSE

WEEK # TOPICS COVERED LESSON # PAGE #

1. Why Study Doctrine? Lesson 1 2

The Inspiration of The Bible Lesson 2 3
2. The Resurrection Lesson 3 5
Eternal Judgment Lesson 4 7
3. The Humanity and Deity of Christ Lesson 5 8
Faith Toward God Lesson 6 12
4. Repentance Lesson 7 14
Water Baptism Lesson 8 15
5. Holy Spirit Baptism Lesson 9 19
Prayer and Fasting Lesson 10 22

6. Gifts of the Spirit Lesson 11 24

7. Christian Stewardship Lesson 12 28

8. Christian Discipleship Lesson 13 35

Fellowship Lesson 14 37
Communion Lesson 15 39
9. The Home Lesson 16 39
The Church Lesson 17 41
The Believer and Government Lesson 18 43
10. Church Government Lesson 19 44
Church Discipline Lesson 20 48
11. Local Church Commitment Lesson 21 50
Church Membership Lesson 22 52
12. Evangelism Lesson 23 54
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Week # 1 Lesson # 1

WHY STUDY DOCTRINE?

MATTHEW 7:13-27 What does Christ mean when he says we must be built upon a rock? "He
that hears these sayings of mine and does them…"

EPHES. 2:20 We are "built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus
Christ himself being the chief cornerstone."

1 COR. 3:10,11 "According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master
builder, I have laid the foundation, and another builds thereon. But let
every man take heed how he builds thereupon. For other foundation can
no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."

1. THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE

Many people are deceived into believing the following erroneous statements: "It does not matter what you
believe as long as you believe in Jesus." "It does not matter what church you attend as long as you believe
in Christ." "Doctrine is divisive - it divides the body of Christ." "There are many roads to God."

ROMANS 16:17,18 "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and
offenses contrary to the doctrine which you have learned: and avoid them.
For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ but their own belly:
and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple."
The word doctrine is translated from the Greek word Didaskalia (Did-askalee'-ah) = "Teaching or
Instruction." Hence any teaching or instruction contrary to the true Christian teaching or instruction taught
by Christ and his Apostles is to be avoided as false teaching.

HEB. 13:9" "Be not carried away with diverse and strange doctrines (teaching)."

ACTS 20:27-3 READ. "Grievous wolves shall enter in... not sparing the flock."

1 JOHN 4:2 "Believe not every spirit... because many false teachers are gone out into
the world."

2. ARE THERE REALLY MANY ROADS TO GOD?

Are Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists etc. saved?

JOHN 14:6 "I am the way, the truth and the life: No man comes to the father but by
me."

ACTS 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other name given
among men whereby we must be saved."
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Week # 1 Lesson # 1

In light of all these scriptures and many more throughout the Bible we can clearly see that it does matter
what we believe and teach. There are not many roads to God. "Straight is the gate (Matthew 7: 14) ..."
Bible Doctrine is not divisive. It is man's teachings which are contrary to the Bible which brings division.
True Christians are to avoid false teachings and false teachers.

3. MUST ALL BELIEVERS BE ABLE TO TEACH AND WITNESS?

HEB. 5:12 "For the time you ought to be teachers you have need that one
teach you again which be the first principals of the oracles of
God."

1 PETER 3:15 "Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and be ready always to give
an answer to every man that asks you a reason of hope that is in
you with meekness and fear."

It is imperative that believers not only Know what they believe to avoid deception but also to have a
working Knowledge of the Bible in order to teach and instruct others also.

Week # 1 Lesson # 2

THE INSPIRATION OF THE BIBLE

What do we mean when we say the Bible is inspired?

2 TIM. 3:16 "All scripture is given by the inspiration of God."

The Greek word for inspiration is Theopneustos = "GOD BREATHED"

That is to say that God imparted the exact words to the writers. We do not mean the same thing as the
inspiration of preachers or poets in which God would give some assistance.

2 PETER 1:20,21 "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any
private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by
the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved
by the Holy Spirit."

Whenever the scriptures were actually written in their original autographs - it was not man's decision to
write about God. It was God's decision to write to man.

1. OLD TESTAMENT WRITERS CLAIMED INSPIRATION

That the Old Testament writers spoke and wrote the exact words that God gave to them is clear from their
own statements:

JEREMIAH 1:69 "Then the Lord put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And
the Lord said unto me, I have put MY WORDS IN YOUR
MOUTH."
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Week # 1 Lesson # 2
The expressions-"The Lord said," "The Lord spoke saying," "Thus says the Lord," etc., occur over 2,000
times in the Old Testament.

2. NEW TESTAMENT WRITERS CLAIMED INSPIRATION

The New Testament also claims to be inspired = God Breathed:

REVELATION 2:8, 9 "And unto the angel (Messenger) of the church in Smyrna
WRITE; THESE THINGS SAITH THE FIRST AND THE
LAST, which was dead, and is alive; I KNOW YOUR WORKS,
and tribulation, and poverty..."

2 PETER 3:15, 16 "...even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given
unto him has written unto you: As also IN ALL HIS
EPISTLES, speaking in them of these things; in which are some
things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and
unstable wrest, as they do also THE OTHER SCRIPTURES,
unto their own destruction."

1 COR. 14:37 "…the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the
Lord."

3. DOES THE INSPIRATION OF THE BIBLE EXTEND TO EVERY PART?

Yes, from the dry lists in Chronicles to the very words of Satan himself, all that the Bible
records is inspired, and profitable to the believer in some way. You may ask how can the words
of wicked men recorded in the Bible and the words of Satan himself be inspired? When some
words of wicked men and Satan are in the text it simply means that these words were chosen by the
Holy Spirit to be recorded to either teach the believer how to deal with evil or to give necessary
historical information so that the reader can understand what happened to God's people.

4. PROPHECY

On April 8, 1985, David Hocking reported a fascinating article entitled "The Shattered Crystal Ball." This
study analyzed the accuracy of the ten top psychics whose prophecies were published over a three year
period (1976-1979). The study compared all of the published predictions with their subsequent success or
failure rate. The results proved that psychics tend to prophesy correctly only about two percent of the time.
Ninety eight percent of all of their predictions were totally incorrect.
The God of the Bible has challenged all false prophets of all false religions to "declare to us the things to
come", to ''tell us what the future holds."

ISAIAH 41:22,23 "Present your case, says the Lord. Set forth your arguments, says Jacob's
King. Bring in your idols, to tell us what is going to happen. Tell us what
the former things were, so that we may consider them and know their final
outcome. Or declare to us the things to come, tell us what the future
holds, so we may know that you are gods."
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Week # 1 Lesson # 2

Accurate prophesy belongs to God alone. There is no other god or gods who can prophesy with 100
percent accuracy.

ISAIAH 46:9,10 "I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the
beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying,
My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure."

MESSIANIC PROPHECY

PSALM 22:14,17,18

MATTHEW 27:35

JOHN 19:34

Week # 2 Lesson # 3
THE DOCTRINE OF THE RESURRECTION

The Doctrine of the Resurrection is central to the Christian Faith. It is essential for all Christians to
believe in the Death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He that does not believe in the death,
burial and resurrection is "yet in (his) sins."

1 COR. 15:1-4; 12-18 "…If Christ be not raised your faith is vain; you are yet in your
sins."

The word Gospel = "Good News" of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The
Hebrew prophets prophesied about the resurrection of Christ and of the coming resurrection of all
the dead, both of the just and unjust.

PSALM 16:9,10 "…my flesh also shall rest in hope. For you will not leave my soul
in hell: neither will you allow your Holy one to see corruption."

JOB 19:25,26 "I know that my redeemer lives, and that he shall stand at the
latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms
destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God."

DANIEL 12:2 "And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall
awake, some to everlasting life and some to shame and
everlasting contempt."

1. IS THERE EVIDENCE FOR THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST?

God did not call us to a blind faith in which it is necessary to commit intellectual suicide to believe.
The believer is instructed to be ready to give an intelligent answer as to why he believes what he
believes (1 Peter 3:5). The Apostles and evangelists preached the Good News of the Resurrection
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Week # 2 Lesson # 3
by appealing to historical facts which were corroborated not only by themselves but by the
eyewitness testimony of the people of the Jews.

1 COR. 15:6 "…he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom
the greater part remain unto his present, but some are fallen
asleep."

ACTS 2:22-24 READ

2 PETER 1:16 "We have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made
Known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ
but were eyewitnesses of his majesty."

It is clear that the faith of the early Christians was founded on experiences in the factual realm.

MATTHEW 27:62-66 READ

It was God's plan that the very efforts of the chief priests and
Pharisees to disprove Christ's prophesied resurrection which
served to make Christ's Resurrection historically trustworthy.

2. MULTIPLE FACTORS FOR THE EVIDENCE OF THE RESURRECTION:

(1) THE ROMAN GUARD Roman Guard detachments were composed of 4-16 soldiers. In
most cases the Romans used a full detachment of 16.

MATTHEW 28:4,11 READ

(2) SOLID ROCK TOMB Jesus was buried in the tomb of Joseph of aramithea - a rich man.

(3) THE STONE Weighed about 2 tons. Would have taken 20 or more men to
move.

(4) THE ROMAN SEAL Cord fastening boulder with sealing clay on each side with the
Roman Governors Signet.

(5) EYEWITNESS TESTIMONY OF THE RESURRECTION

The Apostles and many other Jews were eyewitnesses in seeing the risen Christ. Five hundred
disciples saw the risen Christ ascend into heaven on the Mount of Olives (l Cor. 15:6).
While the multiple number of eyewitnesses are not a 100% guarantee of reliability, it would be
extremely difficult to argue that each one made the same mistake in identification. The eyewitness
accounts of having seen Christ alive after his resurrection would be very convincing in a court of
law, especially in view of the extensive testimony.
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Week # 2 Lesson # 3
(6) PRESENCE OF HOSTILE
EYEWITNESSES Where did Christ's disciples preach the resurrection? Not in
Rome, not in Damascus, not in Egypt or Spain - but in Jerusalem
itself. Doctor John Montgomery writes concerning hostile
eyewitness testimony: "This rule under scores the reliability of
the testimony to Christ's resurrection which was presented
contemporaneously in the synagogues, in the very teeth of
opposition, among hostile cross examiners who would certainly
have destroyed the case for Christianity had the facts been otherwise."

Doctor Montgomery further writes:

"It passes the bounds of credibility that the early Christians could have manufactured such a tale and then
preached it among those who might easily have refuted it simply by producing the body of Jesus."

Paul Athaus Writes:

"The resurrection could not have been maintained in Jerusalem for a single day, for a single hour, if the
emptiness of the tomb had not been established as a fact for all concerned.

3. HISTORIANS AND PROFESSORS CANNOT REFUTE THE RESURRECTION

Many have unsuccessfully tried to refute the historical evidence for the resurrection of Christ by using the
principals historians use to test the reliability of historical accounts. Dr. Frank Morrison applied all of the
laws which historians use to test the reliability of history - to see whether it is trustworthy or not. As he
studied the resurrection he was shocked to find so much historical evidence supporting the resurrection of
Christ. Dr. Morrison ended up writing a book, not the one originally intended. The book is entitled Who
Moved The Stone.
Dr. Simon Greenleaf, a famous professor of Law at Harvard University, studied the resurrection based
upon his own book 'A Treatise On The Law of Evidence', came to this conclusion:
"… according to the laws of legal evidence used in courts of law, there is more historical evidence for the
fact of the resurrection of Jesus Christ than for just about any other event in history."

4. SCRIPTURAL FACTS CONCERNING THE RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD

A) Two resurrections John 5:26 B) Two Different times Rev. 20:4-6

C) The Resurrected Body I COR. 15:35, 40-44, 50-55 Luke 16:23

Our glorified bodies will resemble our earthly bodies.

Week # 3 Lesson # 4
ETERNAL JUDGMENT

The doctrine of Eternal Judgment is listed in Hebrews 6:2 as one of the foundational first principles of the
oracles of God.
1. The Great White Throne Judgment - For the unrighteous dead only. Read Rev. 20:11-15 All of
the unsaved, unrighteous dead shall be judged at this time. 1,000 years after the return of Christ.
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Week # 2 Lesson # 4
2. The Judgment Seat of Christ - For the righteous only. 2 Cor. 5:10 "For we [Christians] must all
appear before the judgment seat of Christ: that every one may receive the things done in his body,
according to that he has done, whether it be good or bad." 1 Cor 3:13-15 Read - Christians shall be "saved
by fire." Rom. 14:10 Read

3. Hell - 4 words for Hell used in the Bible.

1. Sheol - Hebrew and 2. Hades - Greek both mean The Abode of the Dead

3. Tartarus - A lower part of Hades for the angels that sinned. 2 Peter 2:4 "For if God spared not the
angels that sinned, but cast them down into hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved
unto judgment."

4. Gehenna - The Valley of the Son of Hinnom. Used Figuratively for The Lake of Fire.

4. Two Sides of Hades - Luke 16:19-31 Read

5. Does the Bible Teach Annihilationism? - 2 Thess. 1:8,9 Rev. 14:9-11

6. Does The Bible Teach Soul Sleep? - Rev. 6:9-11 Phil. 1:23

7. The Millennial Rein of Christ -Rev. 20:4-6

New Heaven And New Earth - Rev. 21:1-5

Week # 3 Lesson # 5

THE HUMANITY AND DEITY OF CHRIST

MATTHEW 16:13-18 ''You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." "Flesh and blood has
not REVEALED it unto you, but my Father Which is in heaven. "The
apostles knew that Jesus was the promised Messiah:

JOHN 1:45,49 "Philip found Nathaniel, and said unto him, We have found him, of
whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth,
the Son of Joseph… Rabbi, you are the Son of God: You are the King of
Israel." What then did Jesus mean when he said to Peter, "Flesh and
blood has not revealed it unto you?"

1 TIMOTHY 3:16 "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was
manifest in the flesh... " Is it essential to understand who Jesus really
is?

JOHN 17:3 This is life eternal, that they may know you, the only true God,
and Jesus Christ who you have sent."

1 COR. 12:3 "No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Spirit."
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Week # 3 Lesson # 5

1. THE HUMANITY OF CHRIST

Jesus Christ is fully Man: The Apostles themselves stated that he is a man:

ACTS 2:22 "Jesus of Nazareth, A man approved of God among you by

miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him…"

1 TIM. 2:5 "There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the
man Christ Jesus." Jesus himself declared that he is a man:

JOHN 8:40 "But now you seek to kill me, a man that has told you the truth,
which I have heard of God: This did not Abraham."
If Jesus was not a man he could not have been "The Lamb of
God, which takes away the Sin of the world (John 1:29)." For
"without shedding of blood is no remission (Heb 9:22)." If Jesus was not
a man his birth, temptations, sufferings, death and resurrection would be
meaningless. He would not be qualified to be our Savior.

2. THE DEITY OF CHRIST

He that says that Christ was just a man does not tell the full truth about him. John 20:27-29;
John 14:7-11 Philip knew Jesus was the Messiah (see John 1:45) but did not yet know him as God.

COLOSS. 2:9 "For in him (Christ) dwells ALL THE FULLNESS OF THE
DEITY Bodily.

"Some False Christian sects Teach that Jesus was not God. Some say he was just a man, others say he
was Michael the Archangel manifest in human flesh. However, the Bible emphatically states that he is
"God manifest in the Flesh (1 Tim 3:16)" and in Christ "dwells ALL THE FULLNESS OF THE DEITY
BODILY (Coloss. 2:9)" The Bible never states that an angel was manifest in the flesh or that in
Christ dwells all the fullness of Michael the archangel.

3. A COMPARISON OF OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURES PROVIDES

PROOF THAT JESUS CHRIST IS GOD ALMIGHTY

A) ARE THERE TWO God says in Isaiah 44:24

CREATORS? "I am the LORD THAT MAKES ALL THINGS: that stretched forth
the heavens ALONE: That spreads aboard the earth BY MYSELF.
"But Ephes. 3:9 states: God created all things by Christ."

COLOSS. 1:16 "By Him (Christ) were ALL THINGS CREATED."

Compare with John 1:1-3, 14 Read

B) ARE THERE TWO God says in Isaiah 43:11:

SAVIORS? "I, even I, am the LORD: and beside me there is no Savior." But John
4:42 calls Christ "The Savior of the world."
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Week # 3 Lesson # 5
C) ARE THERE TWO David says in Psalm 23:1 (The Lord is my Shepherd…")
CHIEF SHEPHERDS? But Peter says in 1 Peter 5:4

"When the Chief Shepherd shall appear, you shall receive a crown of life…" Christ is not an under
shepherd but the Chief Shepherd. If Christ were not God, Jesus' position as Chief Shepherd would make
Him higher than God's position as shepherd.

D) ARE THERE TWO OMNI PRESENT ONES WHO HEAR AND ANSWER PRAYERS?

PSALM 34:15 "The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and His ears are
open unto their cry."

JOHN 14:14 Jesus said: "If you shall ask anything in my name, I WILL DO IT."
Wonder of Wonders. The one who prayed as a man answers
prayer like God.

JOEL 2:27 God says: "I am in the midst of Israel..."

MATTHEW 18:20 Jesus says, "For where two or three are gathered together in my
name there am I in the midst of them."

ROMANS 8:9-11 READ

E) ARE THERE TWO ALMIGHTY?

GEN. 17:1 God says, "I am almighty God." Jesus also said he is "the
Almighty" in Rev. 1:8

F) ARE THERE TWO FIRST AND LAST?

ISAIAH 48:12 "Hearken unto me, 0 Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the
First, I also am the last."

REV. 22:13 Jesus says, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the
first and the last."

G) ARE THERE TWO COMFORTERS?

ISAIAH 51:12 God says, "I, even I, am he that comforts you."

JOHN 14:18 Jesus said, "I will not leave you comfortless, I will come to you."

H) ARE THERE TWO I AM'S?

EXODUS 3:14,15 "And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said,
"Thus shall you say unto the children of Israel, I am has sent me
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Week # 3 Lesson # 5

unto you ... " " ... this is my name forever, and this is my memorial
unto all generations."

JOHN 8:58 Jesus said, "Truly, Truly, I say unto you, before Abraham was
I AM."

MICAH 5:2 " ... Who's going forth have been from of old, from everlasting. "

I) ARE THERE TWO ROCKS?

PSALM 18:2 "The LORD is my rock...?

1 COR. 10:1-4 READ "they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and
that Rock was Christ. "

ISAIAH 46:9 " ...I am God, and there is none else: I am God, and THERE IS
NONE LIKE ME."
J) THE ARM OF THE LORD

Jesus is spoken of in scripture as THE ARM OF THE LORD, an extension of God himself. This is the
best way to explain the Incarnation.

ISAIAH 53:1-3 READ

JOHN 1:1-3,14 " ... The word was with God, and The word was God ... and the
word was made flesh and dwelt among us, and beheld by his
glory ... "

4. THE DUAL NATURE OF CHRIST

Jesus Christ is fully man and fully God. There are two natures displayed in the life of Christ.

AS A MAN, JESUS: BUT AS GOD, HE:

1. Was born a baby (Luke 2:7) 1. Existed from Eternity (Micah 5:2)
God cannot be born. 2. Never changes (Heb. 13.8) "Jesus Christ the
2. Grew - Mentally and physically, spiritually and same yesterday, today and forever. "
socially. (Luke2:52) God does not grow 3. Answered prayer (John 14:14) "If you shall
3. Prayed (Luke 22:41) - God cannot pray. ask anything in my name, I will do it. "
4. Died (Mark 15:37) God cannot die. "God is a 4. Raised his own body from the dead. (John
spirit" (John 4:24) who "has not flesh and bones" 2:19,21) "Destroy this temple, and in three days I
(Luke 24:39). "No man has seen God at anytime will raise it up... But he Spake of the Temple of his
(John 1: 18). God "is Invisible" (Heb. 11:27) body. "
5. Did not know things (Mark 13:32) 5. Knew all things (John 21:17)
6. Was Inferior to God (John 14:28) 6. Was Equal to God And was God (John 5:18)
7. Was a Servant (Luke 22:27) 7. Was King of Kings (Rev. 19:16)
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Week # 3 Lesson # 5

5. THE NAME OF JESUS IS THE NAME OF GOD

ISAIAH 9:6 "unto us a child is born; unto us a son is given; and the government
shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called
Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The ever lasting Father, The
Prince of Peace…"

The name Jesus comes from the Hebrew Yahweh - Hashua. In its contracted form Jesus was called
Yehshua which literally means "God has become my salvation."

MATTHEW 1:23 Emmanuel = "God with us."

JOHN 5:43 Jesus said "I am come in my father's name, and you receive me
not…"
Compare Isaiah 45:22,23 with Phil. 2:10,11

ISAIAH 45:22,23 "Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I
am God, and there is none else. I have sworn by myself, the word
is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return.
That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear."

PHIL. 2:10,11 " ... at the name of Jesus every Knee should bow, of things in heaven,
and things in earth, and things under the earth. And that every tongue
should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord…"

ISAIAH 46:9 " ... I am God, and there is none else: I am God, and THERE IS NONE
LIKE ME."

The Bible is clear that Jesus Christ is identical with God as to his Divine Nature. The Bible also
states that Jesus Christ received worship:

HEBREWS 1:6 " ... when he brings in the first begotten into the world, he says,
And let all the angels of God worship him."

ISAIAH 42:8 God says: "I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will
I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images."
Week # 3 Lesson # 6
FAITH TOWARD GOD

HEBREWS 11:6 " But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that comes
to God must believe that He is, AND THAT he is a rewarder of
them that DILIGENTLY seek him."

The only source of true Biblical Faith comes from Reading The Word of God.

ROM. 10:17 " ... Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
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Week # 3 Lesson # 6
Dictionary Definition Defines Faith as "Trust, firm persuasion, assurance, firm Conviction,
Confidence in another and another’s word."
God requires us to read the road map to heaven, namely the Bible. He never intended that we simple trust
what others say.

Hagstrom Map Illustration: If you are lost and you ask people on the street corner for directions
they may not be as Knowledgeable as you think. You may be worse off for asking. Yet if you pull
out an up to date map it is easy to find your way. God's word is the only Road Map to Heaven that
we can trust.

Intellectional assent that the Bible is the word of God does not constitute true Biblical Faith. The Bible
has to be used and implemented [ Acted upon] in the life of the believer. If we truly "Trust" the
word of God, have "firm persuasion" that it is correct and exercise total "confidence"
in it, we will learn all it’s teachings and do what it says.

JAMES 1:22 ''be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own
selves."

1. HOW TRUE BIBLICAL FAITH IS EXPRESSED IN THE LIFE OF THE BELIEVERS:

A. ROMANS 10:9,10 A. IT IS EXPRESSED BY CONFESSION.

" if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall
believe in your heart that God has raised him from the dead; you
shall be saved. For with the heart man believes UNTO
righteousness: and with the mouth confession is made UNTO
SALVATION."

B. ROMANS 6:18 B. IT IS EXPRESSED BY A LIFE OF OBEDIENCE.

" ... you have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which
was delivered you."

HEBREWS 11:1-8 By faith the heroes of faith obeyed.

JAMES 2:14-26 Faith and works are inseparable linked together.

The believer is not saved by works (Toiling), he is saved by grace and faith. Yet after the new
birth he becomes God's workmanship, newly "created in Christ Jesus unto good works."

EPHES. 2:8-10 "for by grace are you saved through faith ... for we are his
Workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God has
before ordained that we should walk in them."

2. HOW TO APPROPRIATE FAITH

A. Locate the promise in God's word that fits the need. Phil. 4:19 "God shall supply all your need..."
"For all the promises of God in him are yes, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.
2 COR. 1:20
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Week # 4 Lesson # 7
B. Fulfill All The Conditions. DEUT. 28:1,2 (READ)

C. Remain Patient. HEBREW 6:12-15 (READ)

REPENTANCE

What was the very first word that both Jesus and John the Baptist spoke when they first proclaimed
the gospel?

MATTHEW 4:17 Jesus said, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

MATTHEW 3:2 John said, "Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

1. IS IT ESSENTIAL FOR ALL TO REPENT?

LUKE 13:3 Jesus said, " ... except you repent, you shall all likewise perish."

ROMANS 3:23 " For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God."

The only true foundation on which to begin to build the Christian life is Repentance.

2. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR A PERSON TO REPENT?

Does it mean crying and feeling sorry for oneself?

REPENTANCE is a military term which literally means "To turn around" or "about face." It means a
turning from the disobedience of your past life and giving yourself completely to Christ's Authority. It is
not just a mental decision. It involves a change in heart and attitude as well. Charles Finney defined
Repentance as an "intellectual and a hearty giving up of all controversy with God upon all and every
Point."

REPENTANCE IS A PREREQUISITE FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE FAMILY OF GOD:

2 PETER 3:9 "The Lord ... is long suffering to us - ward, not willing that any should
perish, but that all should come to repentance."

ACTS 2:37,38 " Men and brethren, what shall we do [to be saved]"? Then Peter said
unto them, REPENT, and be baptized everyone of you in the name of
Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the
Holy Spirit."

REPENTANCE IS A COMMAND - It is not an invitation or option.

ACTS 17:30 "And the times of his ignorance God winked at; but now commands all
men everywhere to repent…"
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Week # 4 Lesson # 7
4. REPENTANCE IS NOT ONLY A PART OF THE NEW BIRTH EXPERIENCE - IT IS
ALSO AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTIANS WHO SIN AFTER RECEIVING SALVATION:
The Apostle John Wrote The Following To Christians In:

1 JOHN 1:9 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to
cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Paul Writing To Saved Corinthian Christians Wrote In:

2 COR. 7:9 " ... you sorrowed to repentance: for you were made sorry after a godly manner .. "

2 COR. 7:10 "For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation ... "

Week # 4 Lesson # 8
WATER BAPTISM

Water Baptism is not just symbolic. The Bible clearly teaches that it is also functional in the life of the
believer.

LUKE 1:67,76,77 JOHN THE BAPTISTS' MISSION is recorded: "And his father (Johns
father) Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied,
saying... And you, child, shall be called the prophet of the highest: for you
shall go before the face of the Lord to (1) prepare his ways: (2) To give
Knowledge of salvation unto his people by the REMISSION OF THEIR
SINS."

1. JOHN THE BAPTISTS TESTIMONY CONCERNING BAPTISM:

MARK 1:4 " John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of
repentance for the remission of sins."

* What was Johns baptism for? The Remission I forgiveness of sins.

2. JESUS CHRIST'S TESTIMONY CONCERNING BAPTISM:

MATTHEW 3:13-15 "Then came Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.
But John forbade him, saying, I have need to be baptized of you, and do
you come to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, suffer it to be so
now: For thus it becomes us to fulfill all righteousness." If Jesus was
baptized as our example and if John needed to be baptized, how much
more do we need to be baptized. We need to be baptized.

MATTHEW 28:19,20 "... preach the gospel to every creature, baptizing them in the name..."

MARK 16:15,16 "He that believes and is baptized shall be saved..."

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Week # 4 Lesson # 8

JOHN 3:5 " ... Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into
the Kingdom of God."

Most Bible commentators agree that the expression "born of water" is speaking of "water baptism."

LUKE 24:47 " ... repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name
among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." Notice that Jesus stated "in
his name", speaking of the name of God the Father. Remission of his sins
was to be preached in his name. God's own name.

3. PETER’S TESTIMONY CONCERNING BAPTISM:

ACTS 2:37,38 " ... What shall we do (To be saved)? ... Repent and be baptized everyone
of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…"

When we compare Luke 24:47 with Acts 2:38 we notice that God's Name is Jesus and that remission of
sins was appropriated by water baptism into his name.

1 PETER 3:20,21 " ... Once the long suffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the
Ark was being prepared, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by
water. The like figure whereunto even baptism does also now save us
(not the putting away of the dirt of the body) ... by the resurrection of
Jesus Christ." The Bible clearly states "BAPTISM DOES ... SAVE US."

ACTS 10:47,48 "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have
received the Holy Spirit as well as we? And he commanded them to be
baptized in the name of the Lord."

4. PHILIP’S TESTIMONY CONCERNING BAPTISM:

ACTS 8:36-39 " ... they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is
water: what does hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If you
believe with all your heart, you may. And he answered…I believe that
Jesus Christ is the Son of God… and they went down both into the
water…"

ACTS 8:16 " ... they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus."

5. PAUL'S TESTIMONY CONCERNING BAPTISM:

ACTS 22:12-16 Paul's Conversion: "...arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins,
calling on the name of the Lord."
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Week # 4 Lesson # 8

ACTS 19:1-6 Read - Notice that Paul ties in water Baptism with receiving the Holy
Spirit in verse 3. ''When they heard this, they were baptized in the name
of the Lord Jesus."

COLOSS. 3:17 "And whatsoever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the lord
JESUS."

ROMANS 6:3-6" Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were
baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism
into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead…, even so
we also should walk in NEWNESS OF LIFE. For if we have been
planted together in the likeness of his death. we shall be also in the
likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man [sinful
Nature] is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that
henceforth we should not serve sin."

Notice that if we are disobedient to water baptism we:

(1) Are not spiritually buried with Jesus by baptism into death that we should walk in NEWNESS OF
LIFE. - 1 NEW LIFE

(2) Are not spiritually planted in the likeness of his death in order to be spiritually in the likeness of his
resurrection. 2 RISEN WITH HIM

(3) Fail to spiritually crucify the old man [sinful nature] that we should not serve sin. 3 DEAD TO
SIN

COLOSS. 2:11,12 " ... you are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in
PUTTING OFF THE BODY OF THE SINS OF THE FLESH (3. Dead
to Sin) by the circumcision of Christ: buried with him in BAPTISM,
WHEREIN also YOU ARE RISEN WITH HIM (2. Risen with him)
through the faith of the operation of God, who has raised him from the
dead. And you, being dead in your sins… has he. quickened [made
a1ive](1. New Life) together with him, having FORGIVEN YOU ALL
TRESPASSES."

GENESIS 17:13,14 " ... my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant. And
the uncircumcised man shall be cut off from his people: he has BROKEN
MY COVENANT."

Truly Baptism is not just symbolic - It is also functional in 1. Newness of life 2. Resurrection power
3. Deadness To Sin as well as Forgiveness of Sins.

True Scriptural Water Baptism Always Consisted Of The Following:

1. Performed by Immersion - Never Sprinkling. The Greek word for baptism is baptizo which literally
means "immersion."
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Week # 4 Lesson # 8
2. Only Adults and Children were Candidates for Baptism - Never infants. Mark 16:16 "He that believes
and is baptized shall be saved." Infants cannot understand the gospel. Hence they cannot believe.

3. The invocation of the Name Jesus Christ. Nowhere in the Bible after the resurrection of Christ was
anyone ever baptized outside of the name of Jesus Christ.

4. Faith and Repentance always preceded water baptism.

5. As soon as people believed in the gospel and repented, they were immediately water baptized without
any delay.

Exactly what is the gospel? Gospel Definition is the "Good News" of the death, burial and resurrection
of Christ (See 1 Cor. 15:1-4). Water Baptism identifies the believer with the death, burial and resurrection
of Christ. Therefore it is central to the Christian Faith - and is part of obeying the gospel (See Romans
6:17; 2 Thess. 1:7,8)

6. THE FIRST CENTURY CHRISTIANS TAUGHT THAT BAPTISM WAS FOR

THE FORGIVENESS OR WASHING AWAY OF SINS:

The Letter of Barnabas - written around A.D. 50 - A.D. 80 - states: " ... it is written to the people of Israel
how they shall not receive that baptism which brings to forgiveness of sins." "We go down into the water
full of sins and pollution's: but come up again bringing forth fruit..."

The Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians - written between A.D. 96 - A.D. 117 states: "For our God Jesus
Christ was according to the dispensation of god conceived in the womb of Mary, of the seed of David, by
the Holy Spirit: he was born and baptized, that through his suffering he might purify the water, to the
washing away of sin. "

Note that history records that the Apostle John appointed Ignatias as the Bishop of Antioch in A.D. 69.

The Shepherd of Hermas, written in Rome around A.D. 100 states: "I have even now heard from certain
teachers, that there is no other repentance beside that of baptism; when we go down into the water, and
receive the forgiveness of our sins: and that after that, we must sin no more, but live in purity. And he [an
angel] said to me, you have been rightly informed." "…you do inquire diligently. So by your inquiry you
discover the truth. Hear then why the tower is builded upon the waters: it is because YOUR LIFE IS
SAVED and shall be SAVED BY WATER." * Note that there is a Hermas listed in Romans 16:14

A Historian, Edwin Hatch wrote the following in his book " The Influence of Greek Ideas On Christianity.
Pg. 342: "There is no doubt that baptism was conceived to have in itself an efficacy which in latter times
has been rarely attached to it ... " It was a real WASHING AWAY OF SINS: it was a real birth into a new
life... " Yes "Baptism does also now save us" 1 PETER 3:21.
 19

Week # 5 Lesson # 9
HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM

PART 1 THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS FOR ALL BELIEVERS:

John the Baptist prophesied to the Jewish multitudes that they would be baptized with the Holy Spirit.
Notice that John did not say only a few of you shall receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

LUKE 3:16 "…I indeed baptized you with water: but one mightier than I comes, the
latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you
with the Holy Spirit and with fire."

Note that John's mission was "To give Knowledge of salvation ... " Luke 1:77

This promised Holy Spirit was not given during the earthly ministry of Jesus. It was given after Jesus'
death and glorification - on the day of Pentecost = The fiftieth day after Passover.

JOHN 7:38,39 Jesus said: "He that believes on me as the scripture has said, out of his
belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the spirit,
which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Spirit was not
yet given: because Jesus was not yet glorified.)

LUKE 22:32 Jesus said to Peter, "When you are converted strengthen your brethren."

LUKE 24:49 Jesus said: "And behold I send the promise of my father upon you: but
tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you be enabled with power from on
high."

ACTS 1:4,5,8 Jesus said (just prior to his ascension into heaven): "And, being
assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not
depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the father... For John
truly baptized with water; but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit
not many days from now. But you shall receive power, after that the Holy
Spirit is come upon you: and you shall be witnesses unto me both in
Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of
the earth."

ACTS 2:1-18 The Day of Pentecost Was the First Time The Holy Spirit Was
Poured Out. " ... And they were ALL filled with the Holy Spirit, and
began to speak with other tongues, as the spirit gave them utterance." All
120 Received. "But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel:
And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, I will pour out of my
Spirit upon ALL flesh…"

What was the initial sign proving that they received the infilling of the Holy Spirit? The "Speaking with
other tongues, as the spirit gave utterance." Peter said, "THIS IS THAT" promised Holy Spirit.
 20
Week # 5 Lesson # 9
JOEL 2:28 "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit
upon ALL flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophecy..."

ISAIAH 28:11,12 "For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.
To whom he said. This is the rest where with you may cause the weary to
rest: and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear."

MATTHEW 11:28 Jesus said, "Come unto me all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I
will give you rest…"

When believers receive the birth of the Spirit we are to "hear the sound thereof..."

JOHN 3:8 "The wind blows where it wills, and you HEAR THE SOUND
THEREOF, but cannot tell where it comes and where it goes: So Is
EVERYONE That Is Born Of The Spirit."

After the 120 believers received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost with the evidence of
speaking in other tongues (Acts 2:4), Peter said in Acts 2:33: " ... having received of the father the promise
of the Holy Spirit, he has shed forth this, which you now see and HEAR."

ACTS 2:37-40 " ... Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said to them, Repent,
and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the
remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the
promise is unto you, and to your children, and To All that afar off, even
as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did
he testify and exhort, saying, Save Yourselves from this perverse
generation. "

The scripture is clear that the Holy Spirit Baptism evidenced by speaking in other languages is for "ALL
that are far off." Not some but "ALL."

ACTS 8:12,14-17 READ - The Samaritan Believers Repented and were baptized without
receiving the Spirit. ''Who, when they were come down, prayed for them,
that they MIGHT Receive The Holy Spirit: (For as yet he was fallen
upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord
Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy
Spirit." Note: The Samaritans Repented and were baptized

LUKE 11:5-13 READ (Compare) Jesus encouraged believers to pray for the Holy Spirit
with importunity. Hence, Repentance is not synonymous with receiving
the Holy Spirit.

ACTS 10:44-46 ''While Peter yet spoke these words, the Holy Spirit Fell On ALL them
which heard the word. And they of the circumcision [The Jews] which
believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on
Gentiles also was poured out gift of the Holy Spirit. FOR they HEARD
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Week # 5 Lesson # 9
them speak with tongues, and magnify God." ''You hear the sound
thereof."

ACTS 19:1-6 "Paul… came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples. He said unto
them. Have you received the Holy Spirit since you believed? And they
said unto him, we have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy
Spirit. And he said unto them, unto what then were you baptized? And
they said, unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John truly baptized with
the baptism of repentance, saying unto people, that they should believe on
him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus, when they
heard this they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when
Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them: and
they spake with tongues..."

1 COR 12:7-10,13 (READ) This passage is clearly talking about Spirit Baptism [speaking in
tongues]. "For by one Spirit ARE WE ALL Baptized Into One Body."

MARK 16:17,18 ''These signs shall follow them that believe, in my name shall they speak
with new tongues..."

PART 2. THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IS FOR US TODAY

ACTS 2:39 "For the promise is unto you and to your children, and to ALL THAT BE
AFAR OFF even as many as the Lord our God shall call."
Have Tongues Ceased? 1 Corinthians 13:8-12 Read.

1. Why would God take away something He declares that he "Set in the Church?"

1 COR. 12:28 "God has set in the Church, diversities of tongues. "

2 Why would God command us to "forbid not to speak with tongues" in 1 Cor. 14:39 if He intended
the churches to stop speaking in tongues?

3. Why would God take away something that He declares edifies?

1 COR. 14:4 "He that speaks in an unknown tongue EDIFIES himself. "

4. Why would God suddenly change His New Covenant with His people? It is unscriptural and
outright disobedient to change the gospel in any way.

GALATIANS 1:8 "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto
you than that which we (The Apostles) have preached unto you (The first
Century Christians), let him be accursed."

REVELATION 22:18, 19 "…if any man sha1l take away from the words of the book of this
prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of fife ... ".
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Week # 5 Lesson # 9
DEUTERONOMY 12:32 ''What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: You shall not add
there to, nor DIMINISH from it."

Those who say that tongues are not for us today are "diminishing" or "taking away" a portion of New
Testament Scriptures.

PART 3. WHAT MUST WE DO TO RECEIVE THE HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM?

1. Have Faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior.

2. Repent from your past sinful lifestyle.

3. Be Baptized as soon as you Repent.

4. Exercise Faith In Believing you can receive the Holy Spirit. It is called the GIFT OF THE HOLY
SPIRIT. You will never be good enough to earn it but must freely receive it as a gift.

MARK 11:24 "What things soever you desire when you pray, believe that you receive
them, and you shall have them." Thank God for the gift as you know it is
His will. See Luke 11:5-13

5. Shun all doubting and skepticism. Focus on believing upon Christ "as the Scripture has said."

6. Be obedient to worship God "as the Scripture has said. "1 Tim 2:8 "… lifting up holy hands
without wrath or doubting.

Week # 5 Lesson # 10
PRAYER AND FASTING

Prayer is spending time in conversation with God. It is not just asking for things.
Fasting involves denying the body natural food and drink that we may intensify our sensitivity and
openness to the Lord.

How Must Christians Pray And Fast?

1. We must pray in FAITH

HEB. 11:6 "But without faith it is impossible to please him ...

2. We must come HUMBLY before the Lord.

PSALM 10:17 "Lord, you have heard the desire of the humble: you will prepare their
heart, you will cause your ear to hear."

3. We must come DESIRING GODS WILL

1 JOHN 5:14-15 "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything
according to his will, he hears us: And if we know that he hear us,
whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired
of him."
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Week # 5 Lesson # 10
JOHN 15:7 "If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you shall ask what you
will, and it shall be done unto you."

4. We must come with PURE MOTIVATION.

1 COR. 13:1,13 "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love,
I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal ... And though I
bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be
burned, and have not love, it profits me nothing.

5. We must come without HYPOCRISY. (READ MATT. 6:5-18)

BIBLICAL GUIDELINES FOR PRAYER

1. Believers must have an attitude of prayer or open communication with God at all times.
1 THESS. 5:17 "Pray without ceasing ... "

2. Believers should have a specific time set aside for daily prayer.
PSALM 5:1-3 "My voice shall you hear in the morning, o Lord, in the morning will I
direct my prayer unto you, and will look up."

3. Believers must spend time LISTENING to God in prayer time, realizing that prayer is two - way
communications.

4. Believers must learn to pray in the spirit

JUDE 20,21 "But you beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying
in the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in the love of God…"

ROMANS 8:26,27 READ - " ... the spirit makes intercession for us with groanings..."

COR. 14:2 "He that speaks in an unknown tongue speaks not to men, but unto God:
for no man understands him: how be it in the spirit he speaks mysteries."

1 COR. 14:4 "He that speaks in an unknown tongue edifies himself."

WHEN SHOULD WE PRAY WITH FASTING?

1. When we desire a deeper spiritual life. Isaiah 58:6

2. When Barriers Need To Be Broken Down. Mark 9:14 "Some come not out but by prayer & fasting."

3. When we are in Crisis. Esther 3:13; 4:1-3,15,16; 6:1 Esther fasted three full days without food or
water to avert the genocide of the Jews.

4.To find the cause of failure. Joshua Chapter 7 Israel fled before their enemies because of "sin in the
camp" - Achen.
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Week # 5 Lesson # 10
5. Need direction for big decisions that have to be made. Before Jesus chose the twelve apostles, he prayed
and fasted all night. Luke 6:12,13

TYPES OF FASTING

I. No food at all. Only water (No flavored drinks)

2. No pleasant food. Also called partial fast. DAN. 10:3 "I Daniel was morning 3 full weeks. I ate no
pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth…"

3. No food or water at all. Also called crisis fast. ESTHER 4: 16 "Go gather together all the Jews that
are present in Shushan and fast for me, and neither eat or drink 3 days, night or day…"

TRUE BIBLICAL BASED FASTING SHOULD BE ACCOMPANIED BY THE FOLLOWING:

1. The abstention from comforts and Distractions. Ex.: Telephones, radio, newspapers, magazines etc.
Extra time should be given to prayer and Bible reading.

2. The abstention from marital relations. See 1 Cor. 7:5

3. The giving of food or money for food to those that are in need.

4. Sometimes the abstention from sleep. The Bible calls this "watchings."

Prayer and Fasting are NOT OPTIONAL DISCIPLINES in the life of the believer. Every believer MUST
participate in these practices in their life in order to maintain and develop their personal relationship with
Jesus.

Week # 6 Lesson # 11
GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT

Many people in Charismatic and Pentecostal circles have misconstrued ideas about the nine Gifts of the
Spirit listed in 1 Corinthians chapter 12, Largely because they have never been taught about each of these 9
gifts. Proper Scriptural teaching on the use of the gifts helps to prevent the misuse or neglect of the gifts.

1 COR. 12:4,7-11,13 The manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man in the body. ''Now
there are diversities of the gifts, but the same Spirit ... But the
manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit with all. For to
one is given by the Spirit the (1) word of wisdom; to another (2) the word
of Knowledge by the same Spirit; To another (3) Faith by the same Spirit;
to another (4) the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another (5) the
working of Miracles; to another (6) Prophesy; to another (7) discerning of
Spirits; to another (8) diverse kinds of tongues; to another (9)
interpretation of tongues; But all these works that one and the self same
Spirit, dividing to EVERY MAN SEVERALLY as HE WILL... For by
one Spirit are we ALL BAPTIZED INTO ONE BODY..."
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Week # 6 Lesson # 11
God, the giver of all Gifts, gives to every man in the body of Christ - severally as he wills. The gifts of the
Spirit are supernatural endowments of supernatural power, utterance or revelation. They are not talents
that you acquire - (Not learned) they are not an extension or refinement of natural abilities. Always
remember that they are supernatural gifts.

The Supernatural Gifts Are Divided Into 3 Categories:

1. Revelation Gifts - God communicating his mind to the church.
1) word of wisdom - The God given ability to perceive supernatural wisdom from God.

2) word of Knowledge - The God given ability to receive from God, by revelation, facts and
information which are humanly impossible to Know.

3) Discerning of Spirits - The God given ability to recognize what spirit is behind different
manifestations or activities. This gift also involves the ability to challenge spirits.

2. Utterance Gifts - God speaking to the church.

1) Gift of Tongues - The God given ability which enables a believer to proclaim a message in a
language which he does not Know. This message is given to the church which is to interpreted.
Not to be confused with praying in tongues which is given to all believers.

It is the gift of tongues which is mentioned by the apostle in 1 Corinthians 12:30 when he writes "Have all
the gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?" If we look at the context we find Paul is
talking about spiritual gifts - not the Baptism of the Holy Spirit which is clearly given to all believers.
1 Cor. 12:31 "But covet earnestly the best gifts."

If Paul meant that all believers are not suppose to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence
of other tongues. If he was speaking about the Baptism of the Spirit when he wrote "do all speak with
tongues", Then why did Paul go on to write in 1 Cor. 14:27 "If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it
be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course (one at a time): and let one interpret."
In Acts chapter 2,10 and 19 it is clear that believers spoke in tongues simultaneously. The Day of
Pentecost would have been out of order if Paul was speaking about Prayer languages in tongues for all
believers when he said "do all speak with tongues."
In Acts 2 all 120 believers spake in tongues simultaneously as the Spirit gave the utterance. Hence, the gift
of tongues is not synonymous with the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.

2) Gift of Interpretation of Tongues – The God given ability to bring forth, in a known tongue, a
message which is given in an unknown tongue so the church can be edified.

3) Gift of Prophecy - The God given ability to speak forth a message from God. The message
does not have to contain predictions to be called prophecy.

3. Power Gifts - God doing or acting in the church / Through the church.

1) Gift of Faith - The God given ability to believe God for the impossible.
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Week # 6 Lesson # 11

2) Gift of Healing - The God given ability to impart healing for the physical body at certain,
specific times.

3) Gift of Miracles - The God given ability to perform the impossible. examples: Raising the
dead, opening the red sea, literally moving a mountain, etc.

THE EARLY CHURCH BELIEVED IN MIRACLES AND SPIRITUAL GIFTS

Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch in A.D. 69, wrote the following during the closing years of the reign of
Emperor Trajan 98-117 A.D.
" ...When I was with you I cried out, I spoke with a loud voice, God's own voice: "Pay attention to the
bishop and the presbytery and deacons. Some suspected me of saying this because I had advance
information about the division of some persons; but he for whom I am in bonds is my witness that I did not
know it from any human being. The Spirit made proclamation, saying this: "Do nothing apart from the
bishop; Keep your flesh as the temple of God; love unity; flee division; be imitators of Jesus Christ..."
Apostolic Fathers Pg. 106

Hermas, a prophet in Rome about A.D. 100 records an angel saying to him: "So whenever the man who
has the divine Spirit comes into an assembly of righteous men who have faith in the divine Spirit, and
prayer is made to God by the assembly of those men, then the angel of prophetic Spirit which is assigned to
him fills the man, and that man, having been filled by the Holy Spirit, speaks to the group as the Lord
wills." Apostolic fathers Pg. 199
Justin Maryr wrote in his letters (A.D. 140 - 150): "Today you can see among us both men and women
who have gifts of charisma from the Spirit of God." He also writes about healings and the casting out of
devils in the name of Jesus Christ by Christians throughout the world. The writings of Justin Martyr and
Athenagoras. Ante Nicene Library 12 (1879) Pg. 77

lrenqeus, Bishop of Gaul about 185 A.D. wrote: "…Many brethren in the church possessed prophetic gifts,
and through the Spirit spoke all kinds of tongues." " ... yes even the dead have been raised up... " Those who
believe that tongues and spiritual gifts ceased when the bible was completed must ask themselves why the
early Christians communities Knew no such doctrine.

HOW TO BE USED IN THE GIFTS

1. We must first receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. None of the nine gifts of the Spirit are given,
under the new covenant, to those not having the Holy Spirit Baptism.

2. We should desire to be used in this realm.

1 Cor. 14:1 "Follow after love and DESIRE SPIRITUAL GIFTS."

3. We should be eager to learn all we can about the gifts.

1 Cor. 12:1 "Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have YOU IGNORANT."

4. We must PRAY to be used in the gifts. If we fail to develop a strong prayer life we will not be
used in the gifts. 1 Cor. 14:13 "Let him that speaks in an unknown tongue pray that he may
interpret…"
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Week # 6 Lesson # 11
5. We must yield our spirit, soul and body to the Lord: We belong to Jesus.

6. We must maintain Faith and dispel unbelief. God, who is the giver of the gifts is also the initiator
Of the gifts. We must by faith, obey his promptings. For instance, in the utterance gifts God
normally gives only the first word or two. We must by faith speak out those first words.

REGULATION OF THE GIFTS

1 COR. 14:26-33 READ - Many Corinthian Christians were misusing the gifts.

A. The gifts must be used for the purpose of edifying or building up of the body of Christ.
We must ask ourselves: 1. Will this strengthen the body of Christ?
2. Will this bring Righteousness?
3. Will this bring comfort?

1 COR. 14:29 "….let the other judge"

B. The gifts must be operated "decently and in order."

1. Is this message flowing with what god is saying? There should not be disharmony between
what was preached and the gift.

2. Is this the best time to function in this gift? Does the timing interrupt the preacher / singers?

3. Does my manner of presentation add or detract from the message? Many new Christians over
react to God's Spirit when they feel it mightily upon them.

C. The gifts of the Spirit are to be balanced with the fruit of the Spirit.
1. LOVE - Are you interested in the well-being of others (1 Cor. 13)?

2. JOY - Do you find your joy in building up others (2 Cor. 7:4)?

3. PEACE - Are you at peace with the family of God (Matt. 5:22-24)?

4. LONG SUFFERING - Are you willing to wait for the right time (2 Tim 4:2)?

5. GENTLENESS - Does it flow or interrupt? Is it pushy or gentle (James 3:17)?

6. MEEKNESS - Are you ministering in true humility (1 Peter 5:5)?

7. GOODNESS - Is your personal life in accord with God’s word (Isaiah 52:11)?

8. SELF CONTROL - Are you willing to limit yourself to the prescribed guidelines
(1 Cor. 14:32)?

9. FAITH - Has God told you to say or do this (Gal. 3:2,5)?

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Week # 7 Lesson # 12
CHRISTIAN STEWARDSHIP

LUKE 12:42 Jesus asks "Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his Lord shall
(Key Verse ) make ruler over his household ... ?

Two Greek words used in the New Testament for Steward:

OIKONOMIA (oy-kon-om-ee'ah) - An "Administrator (of a household or estate)."

OIKONOMOS (oy-konom-os) - A "house distributor, manager overseer, fiscal agent or treasurer."

A steward is an Administrator, manager, overseer or treasurer over someone else's money, property, etc.

Webster’s Dictionary Definition for Steward - "A person put in charge of a large estate. An Administrator,
as of finances and property."

From the very beginning man was placed as a steward over the earth:

GENESIS 2:15 "And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to
dress it and to keep it." - In other words "to take care of it."

GOD IS THE SOVEREIGN OWNER OVER ALL THINGS

PSALM 24:1 "The earth is THE LORD’S and ALL the fullness thereof, the world, and
they that dwell therein."

PSALM 50:10 "For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand
hills."

HAG. 2:8 "The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, says the Lord of hosts."

In actuality, everything that man says that he owns actually belongs to the Lord our God who created
everything Himself. Our God is rich.

King David understood God's Sovereign Ownership over all things:

1 CHRONICLES 29:10-16 READ " ... all things come from you, and of your own have we given
you." "…all this store that we have prepared to build you a house for your
holy name comes of your hand, and is all your own."

All Human Beings Belong To God. It does not matter if you are born again or not. God still owns
everyone whether we like it or not:

EZEKIEL 18:4 "Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the Father, so also the soul of
the son is mine, the soul that sins, it shall die."

Even the unsaved will have to give account to God:

 29

Week # 7 Lesson # 12
1 PETER 4:3-5 "For the past time of our life we were satisfied in doing the will of the
Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lust, excess of wine,
reveling, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: wherein they think it
strange that you run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking
evil of you (Christians) Who shall give account to him That is ready to
judge the living and the dead."

In order for Christians to be "FAITHFUL and WISE STEWARDS" it is imperative that we know that
everything we possess: Mental Faculties, our bodies, our Talents, our Gifts, our money and property ALL
BELONG TO GOD. He has made us stewards, Administrators, Managers, overseers over all these things.
It is also imperative for Christians to understand that we must all give account to God how we managed or
administrated every area in our life. Yes even the unsaved will also give account to God in JUDGMENT.

SEVEN STEWARDSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

We must all give account to God in every area of our lives. All Stewardship responsibilities fall into the
following seven categories.

1. WE ARE RESPONSIBLE TO BE FAITHFUL STEWARDS OF OUR HEARTS AND MINDS:

We are responsible to give account for every secret motive, thought or intent of our hearts and minds.

1 COR. 13:1-7 God will not reward good deeds and wonderful works unless they
(READ) are rooted in love. A Greek word for love is Agape = Unselfish love;
Love with the right motive. If we do good deeds with wrong motives it
will profit us nothing.

MATTHEW 5:28 Christians Are Forbidden TO THINK EVIL IN OUR HEARTS: " ... Who
ever looks on a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her
already in his heart."

1 JOHN 3:15 "Whosoever hates his brother is a murderer: and you know that no
murderer has eternal life abiding in him."

PROVERBS 23:7 As a man "thinks in his HEART, SO IS HE."

PHILIPPIANS 4:8 " ... Whatsoever things are true, ... honest,…just,…pure,…lovely,…of good
report: if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, THINK ON
THESE THINGS."

We are responsible to fill our minds with wholesome things. God's word teaches us that it is not only a sin
when people physically commit evil acts, it is also a sin to think of doing evil in our hearts.

2. WE ARE RESPONSIBLE TO BE FAITHFUL STEWARDS OF OUR BODIES:

Our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit which belong to God:
 30
Week # 7 Lesson # 12
1 COR. 6:19,20 " ... Don't you know that your body is the TEMPLE OF THE HOLY
SPIRIT which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your
own? For you are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your
body, and in your spirit, which are God's."

1 COR. 3:16,17 "Don't you know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of
God dwells in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God
destroy: For the Temple of God is holy, which temple you are."

1 COR. 6:13 ''Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord and the Lord for the
body."

1 COR. 10:31 "Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatsoever you do, do ALL for
the glory of God."

"The drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty. "Christians are not to be
PROVERB 23:21
gluttons.

God demands that our bodies which belong to him be kept pure from all sexual immorality.
God also expects us to take good care of our bodies by eating right (with Self Control) and exercising.

3. WE ARE TO BE FAITHFUL STEWARDS OF OUR WORDS:

MATTHEW 12:36 "Every idle (careless) word that men shall speak, they shall give account
thereof in the day of judgment. For by your words you shall be justified,
and by your words you shall be condemned."

God will make all men give account for their words:

ROMANS 14:11, 12 "Every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So
then everyone of us shall give account of himself to God."

JUDE 14, 15 " ... the Lord comes with ten thousands of his Saints. To execute judgment
upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their
ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard
SPEECHES which ungodly sinners have spoken against him."

4. WE ARE RESPONSIBLE TO BE FAITHFUL STEWARDS OF OUR WORKS:

The Biblical meaning for works = "Toiling", "deeds", what we "do", whether it be good or bad. God will
judge us by what we do.

JOHN 5:28,29 "Marvel not at this; for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the
graves shall hear his voice. And shall come forth; they that have done
good unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the
resurrection of damnation."
 31
Week # 7 Lesson # 12
ROMANS 2:6-8 "Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by
patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and
immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not
obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath.

TITUS 1:16 Many who profess to be Christians deny him in works.

"They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and unto every good
work reprobate."

REVELATION 3:15,16 Jesus informs the Laodicean Christians:

"I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot: I would you were cold or hot. So then because you
are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew you out of my mouth."

5. WE ARE RESPONSIBLE TO BE FAITHFUL STEWARDS OF OUR TALENTS AND GIFTS:

MATTHEW 25:14-30 "For the Kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who
called his own servants and delivered unto them HIS GOODS. And unto
one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one: To every man
according to his several ability... But he that had received one went and
digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money... Then he which had received
the one talent came and said… I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in
the earth ... His lord answered ... you wicked and slothful servant... "

1 TIM. 4:14 "Neglect not the gift that is in you ... "

2 TIM. 1:6 "Stir up the gift that is in you ... "

1 THESS. 5:19 "Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesying."

1 PETER 4:10 "As every man has received the gift, even so minister ... as good stewards..?

6. WE ARE RESPONSIBLE TO BE FAITHFUL STEWARDS OF OUR MONEY AND

PROPERTY:

God requires His people to be wise stewards of our money and property so that we can both support our

families and be able to give Tithes and offerings.

1 TIM. 5:8 "But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own
House, he has denied the faith and is worse than an infidel."

MALACHI 3:8-11 (READ) Also see Hagai 1:4-10 (READ) "Will a man rob God? Yet
you have robbed me. But you say, wherein have we robbed you? In tithes
and offerings. " - The Hebrew word for tithes means a "Tenth" , or 10%.
 32
Week # 7 Lesson # 12
1 COR. 9:7-14
"Do you not know that they which minister about Holy things live of the
things of the temple? And they which wait at the alter are partakers with
the alter? Even so has the Lord ordained that they which preach the
gospel should live of the gospel."

FIVE REASONS WHY CHRISTIANS HAVE FINANCIAL PROBLEMS:

1) Materialism - A covetous desire to posses things. Unwise expenditure of money.

2) Burdened With Debt - Money tied up in paying high interest on loans. In the old testament God did
not want his people in debt. Lev. 25:35-37 (READ)

DEUTERONOMY 28:12 "You shall lend unto many nations, and YOU SHALL NOT BORROW."

The New Testament also states in Rom. 13:8 "Owe no man anything but to love one another..."

3) Lack of Diligence - Although the American work ethic has declined, Christians are commanded to be
Not Slothful in business...serving the Lord." (Romans 12:11)
PROVERBS 6:6-11 "Go to the ant you sluggard (lazy person) consider her ways..."

PROVERBS 10:3,4 The Lord will not allow the soul of the righteous to famish. He becomes
poor that deals with a slack hand (lazy hand): but the hand of the
DILIGENT MAKES RICH."

Many Christians lack financial prosperity because they fail in one or more of the following areas of
diligence:
A) They fail to diligently advance themselves in their careers. A Christian ought to seek to be the best
that he or she can be in job skills and performance. Education, diligent study or training, taking
promotional exams, etc. should be of utmost importance to believers. ''Whatsoever your hand
finds to do, do it with all your might." Eccless 9:10

B) They fail to diligently obey their supervisors or boss.

EPHES. 6:5,6 "servants be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with
fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ: not with eye
service, as men pleasers: but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from
the heart…"

C) They fail to be faithful to their jobs. They show up late or do sloppy jobs.

D) They fail to do diligently work enough hours per week to supply all of their families needs. Who
ever said men ought to work only 40 hours per week?

EXODUS 34:21 "SIX DAYS THOU SHALT WORK ... "

4) Are Disobedient to the Will of God. Either to the written word of God or to the direct leading of the
Spirit in their life.
 33

Week # 7 Lesson # 12
DEUTERONOMY "And it shall come to pass if you shall hearken diligently unto the voice of
28:1,11,12 the Lord your God, to observe and to do all his commandments... the Lord
shall make you plenteous in goods... and to bless all the work of your
hand."

MALACHI 3:10 "Bring ye all the tithes into the store house, that there may be food in my
house, and prove me now... if I will not open you the windows of heaven,
and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive
it... "

DEUT. 28:17,19 But if we are disobedient God says: "Cursed shall be your basket and
your store... Cursed shall you be when you come in, and cursed shall you
be when you go out…"

5) Suffer Personal Tragedy which is not always caused by disobedience.

Example JOB: Many Christians have suffered from the loss of a husband due to sudden death or divorce
and find themselves without the means to support their families.
Christians need to pray to find out the perfect will of God for their individual lives, be as obedient as
possible and petition God for restoration. It is God's will for Christians who love the Lord "to prosper and
be in good health." 3 JOHN verse 2

7. WE ARE RESPONSIBLE TO BE FAITHFUL STEWARDS OF OUR TIME:

We are commanded to use time wisely.

PSALM 90:12 "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto
wisdom."

EPHESIANS 5:15 "See then that you walk circumspectly (cautiously), not as fools, but as
wise, redeeming THE TIME, because the days are evil."

Redeeming - Greek (exagorad-'so) To "Rescue from loss", "Ransom".

Each day we need to ask ourselves "Did I waste time today?" "Did I pray?" "Did I read my bible?" Did I
do all for the glory of God?"

Am I on time for work in my secular employment?

Am I on time for church meetings or do I continually walk in late?

Imagine not showing up for work without calling your job, leaving your boss not knowing where you are.

Yet some repeatedly do not show up for church meetings. They lack submission and accountability as a
faithful and wise steward of their time.
 34

Week # 7 Lesson # 12
In the end of this age, at that Great Judgment Day, we will all have to give an account on how we used our
Hearts, our minds, our bodies, our words, our works, our talents, and gifts, our money, our property, and even our
time.

Christians need to ask themselves if they are giving Christ their best.

Jesus is still asking us today: "Who is that faithful and wise steward, whom his Lord shall make ruler over
his household...?

Week # 8 Lesson # 13
CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP
The word DISCIPLE is used over 250 times in the New Testament and literally means:
1. A taught or trained one.
2. A learner / pupil
3. One who accepts or receives instruction or doctrines of another.
4. A disciplined one.

The word DISCIPLINE literally means:

1. Training that develops self control or character.
2. Submission to control.
3. Orderly conduct.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A DISCIPLE OF JESUS CHRIST?

A. It takes a willingness to submit to Jesus Christ as the Lord of our life. To merely confess that Jesus
Christ is Lord without submitting ourselves to do the things he has commanded is disobedience and
rebellion against his Lordship.

LUKE 6:46-49 (Read) "And why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say."

B. It takes a willingness to be taught and instructed in His ways.

MATTHEW 28:20 " .. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded
you."

ACTS 2:42 "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine... " doctrine =
"Teaching or instruction." Many who say they believe are unwilling to
read and be taught Bible truths because they do not want to change their
lifestyles to conform to Christ-Like character.

C. It takes a willingness to be a doer of the word, not just a hearer.

JAMES 1:22 "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own
selves."

D. It takes a willingness to receive the Lords Chastisement and Correction.

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Week # 8 Lesson # 13
PROVERB 3:11, 12 "My Son, despise not the Chastening of the LORD: Neither be weary of
his Correction. For whom the Lord loves he corrects: Even as a Father
the Son in whom he delights. "

HEBREWS 12:7, 8 "If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons: For what son
is he whom the father chastens not? But if you be without chastisement,
whereof all are partakers, then are you bastards and not sons."

REVELATION 3:19 "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: Be zealous therefore, and
repent."

E. It takes a willingness to Prioritize the Kingdom of God above all else. Everything in our life has to take
second place to our relationship with God.

This includes but is not limited to:

Our Family - Love for family members must never take precedence over the will of God in our lives.

MATTHEW 10:37-38 "He that loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: And he
that loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that
takes not his cross, and follows after me, is not worthy of me."

Our Possessions - Our houses, cars, money, property and all material things we may say we own must
take second place to the will of God.

Our Secular Employment - Although the scriptures teach faithfulness to our employers we must never
allow this service to take precedence over our service to God.

FIVE DISCIPLESHIP GOALS

1. To be a strong, Mature Christian. If we are not strong against the works of the flesh we "shall not
inherit the kingdom of God." See Gal. 5:16,17,19 - 25 (READ)

2. To let Christ Live in us.

GALATIANS 2:20 "I am crucified with Christ. Nevertheless I live: yet not I, but Christ LIVES IN
ME, and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God,
who loved me and gave himself for me."

3. To be charged with the Word and the Spirit. Searching the scriptures in diligent Bible Study, prayer
and meditation in the word of God should consume a goodly portion of each day.

4. To be disciplined and diligent to be the best possible Christian witness that we can be.

EPHESIANS 4:29 "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good
to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace, to the hearers." If what you are
about to say does not minister grace, refrain from saying it.
 36
Week # 8 Lesson # 13
1 PETER 3:15 "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer
to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and
fear."

5. To ultimately receive from the Lord the commendation of a good and faithful servant.

MATTHEW 25:14-30 (READ)

Christian Discipleship is not optional. If we say that we are Christians and fail to be taught and trained in
all things Christ commanded - we are not yet his disciples. For the very word disciple means a "taught or
trained one" - "a disciplined one."

JOHN 8:31,32 Jesus said to the Jews which believed upon him: "If you continue in my
Word, THEN ARE YOU MY DISCIPLES in deed: And you shall know
the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

Week # 8 Lesson # 14
FELLOWSHIP

ACTS 2:42 "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and
(Key Scripture) FELLOWSHIP, and in breaking of bread and prayers."

The Greek word translated "fellowship" means to be a sharer or partner in something. To the Christians it
means the partnership or relationship believers enter into by virtue of their common experience of salvation
and mutual participation in the body of Christ.

There Are Two Types Of Fellowship All Believers Must Enter Into:
1. VERTICAL FELLOWSHIP = Fellowship with God which is based upon laying down our wills and
submitting ourselves to the authority of God's word. This fellowship is cultivated by maintaining a personal
relationship with our Heavenly Father by daily prayers, Bible reading (meditation in the word) and praise
and worship. Our fellowship with God is the foundation for horizontal Christian Fellowship.

2. HORIZONTAL FELLOWSHIP = Fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ. This fellowship
is expressed by active participation in a local expression of the body of Christ (a local church) and active
participation in the Universal body of Christ. This fellowship includes "Remembering them which have the
rule over you..."

HEBREW 13:7,17 "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they
watch for your souls, as they that must give account..."

Some Of The Ways Christian Fellowship Is Expressed:

1. Active membership in a local church. Hebrew 13:17

2. Praying for all saints. Ephes. 6:18 "praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and
watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication FOR ALL SAINTS."
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Week # 8 Lesson # 14
3. Worshipping together Colass 3:16

4. Exhortation Hebrew 3:13

5. Edification Romans 14:19

6. Serving one another. Gal. 5:13 / Showing Hospitality to those in need. Romans 12:13

7. Friendship with one another. Romans 15:7

8. Giving Alms to the needy Christians 1 John 3:16-18

GAL. 6:10 "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially
unto them who are of THE HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH."

JOHN 13:35 "By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love
one to another."

WITH WHAT GROUPS ARE CHRISTIANS FORBIDDEN TO FELLOWSHIP?

• Note that there is a difference between being friendly and Christian fellowship.

Friendship = being kind, courteous, loving attachment to individuals.

Fellowship = Sharing, partnership of something.

Jesus was a friend to sinners but he did not enter into fellowship with them. He did not fellowship with
their sinful ways.

When believers enter into the kingdom of God through the common new birth experience, there must be an
immediate separation from certain things which are inconsistent with the Christian life style.

l. The Love of the World. 1 John 2: 15-17 "Love not the world... "

2. Witchcraft, sorcery, Astrology, etc. 1 Corinthians 10:20

3. All unrighteousness 2 Corinthians 6:14

4. False Religion / False Doctrine Gal. 1:7-10

2 JOHN 1:10,11 "If there come any unto you and bring not this doctrine, receive him not
into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that bids him God
speed is partaker of his evil deeds."

Adam Clarks' Commentary "Receive him not into your house." "Give him no entertainment as an
evangelical teacher. Let him not preach under your roof. "
 38

Week # 8 Lesson # 14
"NEITHER BID HIM GOD SPEED"

"Have no religious connection with him, nor act towards him so as to induce others to believe you
acknowledge him as a brother."

WHAT LIMITATIONS DOES GOD PLACE ON OUR FELLOWSHIP WITH OTHERS

WHO PROFESS TO BE BELIEVERS?

1. Doctrinal Concerns - Any doctrine which attacks, denies or perverts the foundational Doctrines of the
Christian Faith found in the Bible should not be fellowshipped. This would include such things as the
Resurrection, the humanity and deity of Christ, the virgin birth, the depravity of sinful man, the new birth
and the power of the blood of Christ to remit sin.

2. Disorderly Conduct - Those who claim to be Christian, but who live in a way that is a reproach to his
name, are not to be fellowshipped.
A) Covetousness - Inordinately desirous or greedy.

B) Idolatry - Inordinately desirous of a person or thing above the Lord.

C) Railer - Abusive or scornful language.

D) Drunkard - Habitually Drinking Alcohol to excess.

E) Extortion - Obtaining gain by dishonest means.

F) Fornication - All sexual sins. Pre-marital sex, Adultery, Pornography etc.

H) Hardness of the heart - Refusing to reconcile an offense with a brother or sister in Christ.

1 COR. 5:11 "I have written unto you not to keep company if any man that is called a
brother be a fornicator, or covetous or an idolater, or a railer, or a
drunkard, or an extortioner, with such a one no not to eat."

God is very much concerned that all who belong to him live in proper relationship to him and to each other
in His Body.

Week # 8 Lesson # 15
COMMUNION

1 COR. 11:23-26 (READ)

Names And Titles Historically Given To This Ordinance:

1. The Lord’s Supper. It is referred to in this way because it was Christ's last supper with his disciples,
prior to his crucifixion.

2. The Lord's Table or the Table Of The Lord.

 39

Week # 8 Lesson # 15
3. The Communion (1 Cor. 10:16) The word communion means an intimate sharing of one person to
another. Communion is a time of intimacy with the Lord and His body.

4. Breaking of Bread (Acts 20:7) This titles refers back to when Jesus initiated communion and he took the
Bread, broke it and blessed it (Matthew 26:26).

ACTS 20:7 "And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to
break bread... "

The above are all Scriptural Titles to this ordinance.

The following are non-Biblical Terms:

I. The Eucharist - This word comes from the Greek word which means "giving thanks."

2. Sacrament - This word comes from a Latin word meaning "holy" or "set apart."

WHAT SIGNIFICANCE DOES COMMUNION HAVE FOR THE BELIEVERS?

MATTHEW 26:26-28 (READ) No Greek word for signify "This is my body...This is my

Blood." 1 Corinthians 11:23-32

Communion is a time for:

*1. Remembrance - As Christians we need to continually remember what Jesus did for us.

2. Communion - A time for intimate communion with the Lord.

3. Unity - A recognition that we are all members of one body.

4. Love - A time to recognize Christ's Love for us.

5. Healing - Christ's blood was shed for our healing of our physical bodies. Not just salvation.

*6. Examination - Every believer must examine his or her heart to make sure it is free from enmity toward
God or man.

7. Thanksgiving - Thanking Jesus for suffering for us.

If we fail to recognize at communion that Christ's body was offered up to save us from our sins we will be
guilty in "eating and drinking damnation" to ourselves "not discerning the Lord's body." 1 Cor. 11:29

Week # 9 Lesson # 16
THE HOME

God's order of head ship in the Home:

1. Christ
2. Husband
 40

Week # 9 Lesson # 16

3. Wife
4. Children

1 COR. 11:3 " ... the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the
man. "

EPHESIANS 6: 1 "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honor your
father and mother: which is the first commandment with promise..."

The Primary Roles And Functions Of A Husband and Father Are:

1. The man is accountable to submit to Christ as his head. This includes obedience to Bible
commands and principles. The man is responsible to be the Priest of his home to pray for God's
direction. 1 Cor. 11:3

2. The man as the head of the home is to use his authority to serve the family. John 13:3-4;
Philippines 2:5-8

3. The man is responsible to provide for his family. Both materially and Spiritually. 1 Timothy 5:8;
Exodus 12:3

4. The man is responsible to unselfishly love his wife and children as Christ did for the church.
Ephesians 5:25-31

5. The man is responsible to treat his wife with respect and honor as he would his own fleshy body.
(READ) Ephesians 5:25-29

6. The man has the Priestly responsibility to pray for his family and discipline his children when
necessary. 1 Sam. 3:13

The Primary Roles And Functions Of A Wife And Mother Are:

1. The women is accountable to God to be submitted to her husband in all things and to maintain a
meek and quiet spirit. (READ 1 Peter 3:1-6; Ephes. 5:22-24)

2. The woman is responsible to be a helper to her husband.

Gen. 2:18 "…It is not good that the man should be alone: I will make him an help meet for him."
meet - Heb. Ezer (ay-zer) = "aid" The woman is to be a help aid to her husband.

3. The woman is responsible to show hospitality to all. 1 Tim 5:10 (see # 4 Below)

4. The woman is responsible to raise her children under the headship of her husband.
1 Tim. 5:10 "Well reported of (for) good works: if she have brought up children, if she have
lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have
diligently followed every good work."

5. The woman is responsible to be a virtuous and creative homemaker. (READ Proverbs 31:10-31)
 41

Week # 9 Lesson # 16
Some Keys To Successful Family Living: The Christian Home is to be an example of the Power of the
Gospel.

1. LOVE - Each family member should be motivated by Agape Love. 1 Cor. 13

2. Servant Heart - Esteeming the needs of others more than self. Phil. 2:3-7

3. Open Communication - Ephes. 4:29

4. Forgiveness - Matt. 18:23-25

Week # 9 Lesson # 17
THE CHURCH

The word church in English comes from the Greek word Ecclesia = "called out ones." Not called out
buildings but called out people.

The Church consists of groups of disciples which are marked out by the following foundational Christian
Doctrines:

Justification By Faith Eternal Judgment

Repentance The Virgin Birth

Doctrine Of Baptisms (Water and Spirit) The Humanity Of Christ

Doctrine Of The Resurrection The Deity Of Christ

The Efficacy Of The Blood Of Christ The Full Inspiration Of Scripture

HEB. 6:1,2 " ... the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward
God. Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying of hands, and of the
resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment."

What is the Universal Church? Universal = world wide church

The true world wide church of today is united with all true disciples of past ages by our common faith built
upon the foundation of the apostles doctrine. See Ephes. 2:20

1 COR. 3:10,11 "According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise
master builder, I HAVE LAID THE FOUNDATION, and another builds
thereon. But let every man take heed how he builds thereupon. FOR
OTHER FOUNDATION CAN NO MAN LAY THAN THAT IS LAID,
which is Jesus Christ."

God's Universal Church is not bound by man's Denominational or Sectarian walls but includes every
nation, kindred, tribe and tongue. Rev. 7:9
 42

Week # 9 Lesson # 17

What Is The Local Church? – Local groups of disciples built upon the foundation of the apostles doctrine
and headed By God's ordained Elders.

Every city in which the apostles founded Churches they ordained Elders.

TITUS 1:5 Paul wrote to Titus: "For this cause I left you in crete, that you should set
in order the things that are lacking, and ordain elders in EVERY CITY, as
I had appointed you." See also Matthew 18:15-17; Heb. 13:17

The Bible uses the word Church 114 Times - 96 of which clearly refer to the local Church.

Names And Titles Given To The Church In Scripture

The Israel of God The Church Of God

The Pillar And Ground Of Truth The Body Of Christ

The House Of The Lord The Bride Of Christ

The Household Of Faith The Church Of Christ

The Family Of God The Army Of God

What Kind Of Church Is Jesus Building?

A Holy Church - Heb. 12:14 "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the
Lord."

A Unified Church - John 13:35 "By this shall all men know that you are my disciples, if you have love one
to another."

A Victorious Church - Rev. 12:11 "And they overcome him (Satan) by the blood of the lamb and by the
word of their testimony.

God is Restoring The Church - Ephes. 4:11-16 (READ)

The true Church consists of those baptized believers - not just similar - but identical to the teachings of the
first century Church.

Week # 9 Lesson # 18
THE BELIEVER AND GOVERNMENT
God Holds Dominion Over Civil Governments.
DANIEL 4:17 "… the most high rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomsoever
He Will…"
 43

Week # 9 Lesson # 18
God uses Civil Governments to bring order to society and to punish criminals (READ Rom. 13:1-7)
Although God does not sanction Governmental Corruption, He still expects Christians to maintain an
attitude of submission and respect to the authority of Government. However, Christians are forbidden to
violate the laws of God in submitting to Governments.

ACTS 4:18,19,20 "And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach
in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered... Whether it be right
in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, you judge.
For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."

GOD'S WORD COMMANDS OBEDIENCE TO GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITIES:

MATTHEW 22:21 "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's: and unto
God the things that are Gods."

ROMANS 13:1 "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power
but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God."

TITUS 3:1 "Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey
magistrates, to be ready to every good work."

1 PETER 2:13,14 "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake:
whether it be to the King as supreme: "or unto governors..." as unto them
that are sent by HIM for the punishment of evil doers, and for the praise
of them that do well."

Areas Of Involvement Not Belonging To Civil Government:

1. The Raising And Education Of Children. Proverbs 22:6; Ephes. 6:4; Gen. 18:19

2. Welfare Programs which care for the aged, widows and orphans. These responsibilities are
clearly given to the individual, the family and the church. (1 Tim. 5:4-10) Not the Government.

3. The Legislation of Religious Edicts. Mark 8:15 "Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the
leaven of Herod."

CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN THE AFFAIRS OF CIVIL GOVERNMENT

BY:

1. Praying For Governmental Officials. 1 Timothy 2:1-2

2. Giving Honor To Government officials. Romans 13:7

3. Obedience To The Decisions Of The State so long as they do not violate God's moral Law or cause
people to sin. 1 Peter 2:13-14

4. Participation In Voting for officials who take a strong moral stand. Matthew 5:13,14
 44

Week # 9 Lesson # 18
5. Staying Informed About Public Issues. Ephes. 5:15-16; 2 Corinthians 2:11

6. Respectfully appealing to the authorities when civil edicts go against God's Moral Laws and are
harmful to our society.

7. Paying All Taxes that the Government Requires.

ROMANS 13:6,7 "…pay tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually
upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues. Tribute to whom
tribute, custom to whom custom, honor to whom honor."

All Christians should be Model Citizens in obeying the Law, paying taxes, and being involved in the
political process."

Week # 10 Lesson # 19

CHURCH GOVERNMENT

1 COR. 12:27,28 ''Now you are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And GOD
HAS SET SOME in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets,
thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps,
GOVERNMENTS, diversities of tongues."

1. GOD HAS ESTABLISHED CHURCH GOVERNMENT:

With no Government, no structure, or order in the Church there would be CHAOS, lawlessness
and anarchy.

1 COR. 14:40 "Let all things be done decently and in order."

HEBREWS 13:17 "Obey THEM that HAVE THE RULE OVER YOU, and SUBMIT
YOURSELVES: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give
account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief..."

Hence The Bible is very clear that there are THOSE THAT RULE in the house of God.

2. GOD IDENTIFIES THE RULERS IN HIS HOUSE AS ELDERS:

1 TIMOTHY 5:17 "Let the ELDERS THAT RULE well, be counted worthy of double
honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine."

3. GOD'S WORD CLEARLY STATES THAT LOCAL CHURCHES ARE TO BE GOVERNED

BY A PLURALITY OF ELDERS.
PLURALITY means more than one.

ACTS 14:23 "And when they had ordained them ELDERS IN EVERY CHURCH, and
had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord on whom they
believed."
 45
Week # 10 Lesson # 19
TITUS 1:5 "For this cause I left you in Crete, that you should SET IN ORDER the
THINGS THAT ARE LACKING, and ORDAIN ELDERS in EVERY
CITY, as I had appointed you."

ACTS 20:17 "And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called THE ELDERS OF THE
CHURCH."

JAMES 5:14 "Is any sick among you? Let him call for THE ELDERS OF THE
CHURCH and LET THEM pray over him…"

The Biblical meaning for Elder does not necessarily mean old in physical age but rather one who is not only
called to the five fold ministry but one who has experience and maturity in the Christian Faith. This
maturity includes the manifestation of godly character. See 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-8

4. A PLURALITY OF ELDERS INCLUDES THE IDEA OF A SENIOR ELDER OR PASTOR:

In Revelation Chapters two and three, each of the seven Churches in Asia Minor were given direct
messages from Christ which were addressed to the ANGEL of each Church.
The word Angel simply means MESSENGER. It does not have to mean a heavenly being.

REVELATION 2:1 "Unto the messenger of the Church at Ephesus write... " A Bishop delivers
God's Message.

Most scholars agree that the messages of Christ were written directly to the Head Bishop of each of the
seven Churches.

5. TITLES GIVEN TO THOSE THAT HAVE THE RULE IN GOD'S HOUSE:

A) Apostles - A "delegate", an "ambassador". One that is sent.

B) Prophet - A "foreteller" or "Inspired speaker."

C) Evangelist - A "Preacher", "Evangelist." One that is sent.

D) Bishop - An "overseer", "Superintendent"

F) Pastor - A "Shepherd" who watches over / attends to a flock

G) Deacon - An "attendant", "waiter".

Note: The above meanings for these Leadership Titles were directly taken from the original Greek
meanings found in Strong’s Concordance of The Bible.

Another name for Elder used in the New Testament is Bishop = "overseer" which simply describes the
function that an elder has.
 46

Week # 10 Lesson # 19
6. GOD HIMSELF CHOOSES THE MEN THAT RULE IN HIS HOUSE:

God's qualifications for Church Rulers:

A) They must have proven character.

1 TIMOTHY 3:1-7 Fruit of the Spirit must be manifested.

B) They must have Spiritual Vision And Spiritual Mindedness. They must see and think like God.

PROVERB 29:18 ''Where there is no vision, the people perish."

C) They must love the word of God and prayer.

ACTS 6:4 "we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the
word."

D) They must have their own house in order. 1. Wife and children. 1 Tim. 3:4,11
2. Finances = Must know how to control money, and not be materialistic.

1 TIMOTHY 3:4,5 "One that rules well his own house, having his children in subjection with
all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall
he take care of the church of God?)

1 TIMOTHY 3:11 "Even so must their wives be honorable, not slanderers, sober, faithful in
all things."

E) They must be gifted and skilled. 1. Able to teach 1 Timothy 3:2

2. Used in Spiritual Gifts and Talents, (must not hide them).

7. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ELDERS:

a) Ruling - This involves the genera1 oversight of the on going affairs of the church.
Ruling = "Presiding over" or "Superintending"

The Elders are to the Church what parents are to the home. As rulers, the Elders stand accountable before
God for the entire state of the assembly.

Hence Jesus says to the Bishop of Thyatira in Rev. 2:20:

"I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, which calls herself a prophetess,
to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication... "

Who did Christ rebuke for letting Jezebel Teach? The people in the church or the head Bishop of the
church? He certainly would not have rebuked a heavenly angel for doing so.

REV. 2:18 "And unto the Angel of the Church in Thyatira, write..."
Angel = Messenger - Bishop.
 47

Week # 10 Lesson # 19
Christ holds the head Bishop accountable for the entire Church he preaches Christ messages too.
B) Shepherding - Feeding the flock, watching for wolves, helping the weak, ministering to the sick and
being examples for God's flock to follow.

C) Instructing - Teaching sound doctrine for the perfecting of the saints. Bringing stability and maturity to
the members of the body. Helping all members to grow in their talents, gifts and ministries by
inspired teaching and preaching.

8. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PEOPLE TOWARD THE ELDERS:

a) The people are to esteem the elders highly in love. 1 Thess. 5:13

b) The people are responsible to submit themselves to their godly leadership. Heb. 13:17

c) The people are to financially support the elders if they choose financial support. 1 Cor. 9:11-14

d) The people are to refrain from hastily charging an Elder with wrong doing.

1 TIMOTHY 5:19 "Against an Elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three
witnesses." Do not be quick to receive one persons accusation as truth.
Be not hasty to speak a critical word against an Elder: Check your own
Spirit first.

ACTS 23:5 "You shall not speak evil of the ruler of your people."

If there is sin or serious faults in an elder that you personally observe, do not slander his reputation by
telling everyone in the Church or unsaved family, friends or neighbors. You should go directly to the Elder
first, and if the situation is still unresolved go to another Elder, *Never repeat gossip about anyone. Satan
is called in Revelation 12:10 "the accuser of our brethren…" and his tactic is to spread false accusations.

God says in Proverbs 6:19 that HE HATES:

"A false witness that speaks LIES, and he that SOWS DISCORD among brethren."

e) The people are responsible to pray for their Elders. 1 Thess. 5:25

God’s Government is not intended to stifle the body of Christ but rather, to build up the body. It is essential
for all Christians to submit to and be supportive of Church Elders. Christians need to build up the Elders
by not disrespecting their authority or slandering their reputations.

1 THESS. 5:12,13 "And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you,
and are OVER YOU in the Lord, and admonish you; And to ESTEEM
them VERY HIGHLY IN LOVE for their work’s sake. And be at peace
among yourselves."
 48

Week # 10 Lesson # 20
CHURCH DISCIPLINE

Key Scripture Matthew 18:15-18 (Read)

1. WHY IS DISCIPLINE NECESSARY?

A) Without discipline sinning believers will continue sinning.

1 COR. 5:5 "Deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the
spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus."

B) Discipline Prohibits the Leavening Influence of Sin from spreading to other church members.

1 COR. 56:7 "Know ye not that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Purge out
therefore the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, as you are
unleavened…"

1 TIMOTHY 5:20 "Them that sin rebuke before all that others may fear." Rebuke = chide
or censure severely.

C) Without church Discipline the Local Body will Lack Holiness and without Holiness we can not be
saved.

HEB. 12:14 "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see
the lord."

D) Without church Discipline Confidence and Respect for Church Leadership is lost.

1 SAMUEL 2:17; 3:11-13 Hophni and Phinehas broke the Law of Moses by committing fornication,
eating fat, and stealing the sacrifices of the Lord which were to be
completely burned up. Eli the Priest failed to discipline his own sons.
Hence, "Men abhorred the offering of the Lord." 1 Samuel 2:17

2. METHODS OF CHURCH DISCIPLINE

A) Admonish - To warn, or exhort. Can be done publicly or privately. 2 Thess. 5: 12

B) Reprove - To convict; to expose by conviction; to bring to light; to show one his fault; to chasten
or punish.

C) Rebuke - To tax with a fault; chide or censure severely. Jesus and John both rebuked the Pharisees.
2 Tim. "Reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine."

D) Judge - to separate; put asunder; to pronounce a sentence. In the area of Church Discipline we
mean to disfellowship from the church.
 49
Week # 10 Lesson # 20
1 COR. 5:3 "I have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that has
so done this deed."

1 COR. 5:13 "Put away from among yourselves that wicked person."

3. AREAS OF MISCONDUCT THAT REQUIRE DISCIPLINE:

A) Personal Relationships - When two people who claim to be Christian willfully refuse to be
reconciled in an argunent, quarrel etc. 1 COR. 6:1; 6-9

B) Doctrinal Errors - When a person persistently teaches false doctrines to other members of the
body or in any way spreads false doctrine among the body.

C) Ungodly Living - When a person claiming to be a Christian lives in sin, i.e.; lying, stealing, gossip,
hatred, prejudice, bitterness, fornication, adultery, pornography, assaultive or
violent behavior, cursing, swearing, drunkenness, covetousness, idolatry or refusal
to come under submission to the Elders is ALL REBELLION AGAINST
GOD'S COMMANDMENTS.

1 SAMUEL 15:23 "Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft."

4. THE MAIN PURPOSE OF DISCIPLINE

A) To maintain the honor of God. Rom. 2:24

B) To maintain the holiness and purity of the Church. 1 Cor. 5:1-7

C) To restore the believer to repentance. 1 Cor. 5:5

All Church Discipline must be remedial in nature. It's purpose is to bring restoration to the fallen Christian
and not his spiritual ruin.

Week # 11 Lesson # 21
LOCAL CHURCH COMMITMENT
Commitment = To cleave to, to adhere to, to be attached to, to join oneself closely to or stick to the side of
another.

In The Greek Language Commitment = A gluing together, a firm fastening and a giving of oneself
steadfastly to another.

TO WHAT SHOULD CHRISTIANS BE COMMITTED

l. To The Lord

ACTS 11:23 Barnabas exhorted the Christians at Antioch that "with purpose of heart
they would CLEAVE UNTO THE LORD."
 50

Week # 11 Lesson # 21
2. To The Word Of God
JOSHUA 1:8 "This book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth: but you shall
meditate therein day and night, that you may observe to do according to
all that is written therein: for then you shall make your way prosperous,
and then you shall have good success."
3. To Your Spouse

GENESIS 2:24 "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave
unto his wife; and they shall be of one flesh."

4. To Members Of The Church - Especially to the Leadership of the Church.

EPHES. 4:16 "From whom the whole body FITLY JOINED TOGETHER and
COMPACTED by that which EVERY JOINT SUPPLIES, according to
the effectual working in the measure of every part, makes increase of the
body to the edification of itself in love."

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMITMENT IS SHOWN BY THE FOLLOWING

ILLUSTRATIONS:

1. The Church is as a house composed of many stones.

1 PETER 2:5 "You also, as lively stones, are built up a SPIRITUAL HOUSE, an
holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by
Jesus Christ."

2. The Church is as a body - The Body of Christ.

EPHESIANS 5:30 "For we are members of his body, Of his flesh, and of his bones."

1 COR. 12:27 ''Now you are the body of Christ, and member in particular."

3. The Church is a family - made up of many brothers and sisters.

EPHESIANS 3:14,15 "I bow my knees unto the father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the
whole family in heaven and earth is named."

IN WHAT WAYS DO CHRISTIANS DEMONSTRATE COMMITMENT TO ONE ANOTHER?

Christians are responsible to:
1) Love one another. 5) Admonish one another.

2) comfort one another. 6) Serve one another.

3) Exhort one another. 7) Submit to one another.

4) Build up one another. 8) Pray for one another.

 51
Week # 11 Lesson # 21

THERE ARE ALSO THINGS WHICH CHRISTIANS MUST NEVER DO TO EACH OTHER?

I. Never Judge with human judgment. 1 Cor. 4:3-5

2. Never Go to Law with each other.

1 COR. 6:1 "Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to Law before the
unjust, and not before the saints."

3. Never Slander one another.

JAMES 4:11 "Speak not evil one of another, brethren..."

4. Never envy one another. 1 Peter 2:1

5. Never hurt or harm one another.

GALATIANS 5:15 "But if you bite and devour one another, take heed that you be not
consumed one of another."

HOW COMMITMENT IS EXPRESSED IN THE LOCAL CHURCH

God commands the following commitments from all believers:

A) Commitment to a Local Church Family.

B) Commitment to be willing to support the vision of the local Church Family.

C) Commitment to come under the Authority of that Family.

D) Commitment to give time and energy to that family.

E) Commitment to the Assembling Times of that family. (Not just Sunday)

F) Commitment to Financially Support The Local Church family through Tithes and Offerings.

G) Commitment to help the members of the Local Church family. (If Able)

H) Commitment to Bear The Burdens of the Local Church Family.

IS THERE A NEED TO VERBALIZE OUR COMMITMENTS? YES

A) This is true in Marriage - The exchanging of vows.

B) This is true among Bible Characters:

1. Joshua before all Israel. Joshua 24:14 "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
 52

Week # 11 Lesson # 21
2. Ruth unto Naomi (Ruth was a Moabite) Ruth 1:16 "For where you go, I will go; and where
you lodge, I will lodge: your people shall be my people, and your God my God."

For a believer to say he is committed to what God is doing in a general way and fail to identify with a local
church is brazen disobedience to the word of God.

For a child to do this in the natural would be ridiculous - For a child to say he is identified with the great
family of mankind but refuse to identify with a specific natural family would be absurd. Yet many who
claim to be Christians do exactly that when they say they are a part of the Universal Church but do not have
a local church family to commit themselves too.

Week # 11 Lesson # 22

CHURCH MEMBERSHIP

IS THE CHURCH MEANT TO BE AN EXCLUSIVE GROUP?

When properly understood, it is true that the Church of Jesus Christ is meant to be an exclusive Group.
The word CHURCH = Greek Ecclessia "called out ones." Called out from the world.

2 COR. 6:14-18 "come out from among them, and be ye SEPARATE, says the Lord..."

God demands a coming out and a separation.

While Church Membership is exclusive, it is clear that church attendance is to be open to all.

1 COR. 14:23 "If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all
speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or
unbelievers, will they not say that you are mad [crazy]?

HOW DOES ONE BECOME A MEMBER OF THE CHURCH?

There are Two Aspects To Church Membership:

1. Spiritual Membership - You do not become a member by signing up or filling out registration papers
with a particular Church. We all become members through the New Birth. This includes water and spirit
Baptism. .

ACTS 2:37-41 " ... What shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized
everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and
you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the Promise is unto you,
and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord
our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort,
saying, save yourselves from this perverse generation. Then they that
gladly received his word (The Word Of God) were baptized: and the same
day there were added unto them about 3,000 souls."

1 COR. 12:7,8,11,13 "For by ONE SPIRIT are we all BAPTIZED INTO ONE BODY…"
 53

Week # 11 Lesson # 22
2. Practical Membership - There must be a visible and practical expression of Church Membership as seen
through the New Testament. Believers that were added to the Lord were also added to the Church.

ACTS 2:41 "the same day there were added unto them 3,000 souls."

PRACTICAL MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES:

A) As Citizens of Heaven we must submit to the Laws of God's word and be "fitly framed together with
other Believers.

EPHESIANS 2:19 " ... you are no more strangers and foreigners, but FELLOW CITIZENS
with the Saints, and of the household of God… In whom all the building
fitly framed together grows unto an holy temple in the Lord..."

As citizens we are required to submit to the Laws of God's ordained Government found in the bible.

B) We must submit to the Government of God's ordained Leadership.

HEBREWS 13:17 "Obey them that have rule over you, and SUBMIT YOURSELVES: for
they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may
do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

Ignatius' Letter to the Ephesians Chapter 4:

"It is fitting for you to run your race together with the Bishop's purpose –
as you do."

C) We must Not Forsake the Assembling of Ourselves Together with other Believers In A Local
Expression of the Body of Christ.

HEBREWS 10:25 "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves TOGETHER, as the

manner of some is…"

Ignatius Letter To The EPHESIANS Chapter 5:

"Let no one deceive himself: unless a man is within the sanctuary, he lacks the bread of God. If the
prayer of one or two has such power, how much more does that of the Bishop and the whole Church?
Therefore he who does not come to the assembly is already proud and has separated himself. For it is
written, "God opposes the proud: Let us, therefore, be eager not to oppose the Bishop, so that we may be
subject to God. "
"...be eager to meet frequently for thanksgiving and glory to God. For when you frequently come
Together, the powers of Satan are destroyed and his destructive force is annihilated by the concord of your
faith."

1 COR. 12:14-27 (READ) vs. 21 "And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of
you: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. "

This is exactly what a believer does when he forsakes the assembling of himself together with other
believers.
 54

Week # 11 Lesson # 22
THE BIBLE IS CLEAR THAT SPIRITUAL MEMBERSHIP DEMANDS A PRACTICAL
MEMBERSHIP IN A LOCAL CHURCH ASSEMBLY.

Failure to do so is DISOBEDIENCE TO GOD.

1 JOHN 1:3-5 "And hereby we do know that we know him, IF WE KEEP HIS
COMMANDMENTS. He that says, I know him, and keeps not his
commandments is A LIAR, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keeps
his word, in him is the love of God perfected: HEREBY KNOW WE
THAT WE ARE IN HIM."

To reject the Local Church or the Local Church Government of Elders is to resist God's Plan for our lives
and elevate ourselves above God - Cutting ourselves off from Christ's Body. We need the Lord but we also
need each other.

Week # 12 Lesson #23

EVANGELISM

The Greek word for Evangelism = "to tell" or "to announce good news." It simply means to tell unsaved
people about Salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

1. WHY IS EVANGELISM NECESSARY?

A) BECAUSE THE ENTIRE POSTERITY OF ADAM AND EVE WAS BORN IN SIN i.e.
born with a sinful nature inherited from Adam and Eve.

ROMANS 5:12 "Wherefore, as by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world and death
by sin: and so death passed upon all men, for that ALL HAVE SINNED."

PSALM 51:5 David expressed this fact when be said:

"Behold, I was shapen in INIQUITY: and IN SIN DID MY MOTHER
CONCEIVE ME."

ROMANS 3:23 "For ALL HAVE SINNED, and come short of the glory of God."

B) BECAUSE ALL UNSAVED SINNERS ARE DESTINED FOR THE LAKE OF FIRE

EZEKIEL 18:4 "THE SOUL THAT SINS, IT SHALL DIE" = Eternal Death

REVELATION 20:11-15 "And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into
the lake of fire." This is the place where Jesus said there would be
perpetual "weeping and gnashing of teeth." Matt. 8:12

REVELATION 14:11 This is the place where, "the smoke of their torment ascends up forever
and ever: and they have no rest day nor night…"

JOHN 3:3 Jesus said: "Except a man be born again, HE CANNOT SEE THE
KINGDOM OF GOD."
 55

Week # 12 Lesson # 23

JOHN 3:5 Jesus went on to say: "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit,
HE CANNOT ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD."

2. CHRISTIANS ARE RESPONSIBLE TO PROCLAIM THE GOOD NEWS OF SALVATION

ROMANS 10:14 "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And
how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how
shall they hear without a preacher."

REVELATION 22:17 "And the Spirit and the BRIDE say come. And let him that hears say,
come. And let him that thirsts come. And whosoever will, let him take
the water of life freely."

ACTS 8:4 records that the early Christians "went everywhere preaching the word."

Christians today need to go "everywhere preaching the word" to "whosoever will."

THESS. 2:13 states: "...the word of God, which effectually works also in you THAT
BELIEVE." Not just Pastors, not just teachers, not just Apostles or
Evangelists - but YOU THAT BELIEVE.

3. HOW DO BELIEVERS BECOME EFFECTIVE IN SPREADING THE GOOD NEWS?

A) Manifest The Fruit Of The Spirit

GALATIANS 5:22,23 "But the fruit of the spirit is LOVE, PEACE, PATIENCE, GOODNESS,
FAITHFULNESS, MEEKNESS, SELF CONTROL…"

MATT. 5:16 "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

B) Do Not Be A Hypocrite - Practice what you preach. There is nothing more ineffective than a
hypocritical Christian witness.

ROMANS 2:21,22,24 "You therefore which teaches another, teachest Thou not yourself? You
that preaches a man should not steal, do you steal? You that say a man
should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You that abhor
idols, do you commit sacrilege? For the name of God is blasphemed
among the Gentiles through you..."

MATTHEW 7:5 "You hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of your own eye: and then
shall you see clearly to cast out the mote out of your brother's eye."

C) Stay Humble - Remember that it is the grace of God which enables us to be righteous.
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EPHESIANS 2:8 "For by grace you are saved through faith: and that not of yourselves:
it is the gift of God."

2 TIMOTHY 2:25 "In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves: if God
peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth."

D) Study The Word - Diligently so that you can effectively persuade people to obey the gospel and
be able to answer peoples questions.

2 TIMOTHY 2:15 "Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to
be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. "

1 PETER 3:15 "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an
answer TO EVERY MAN that asks you a reason of the hope that is in
you with meekness and fear."

E) Pray And Fast for the lost.

PSALM 126:5,6 ''They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goes forth and weeps,
bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bearing
his sheaves with him."

JAMES 5:16 "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much."

F) Grow In Wisdom - It takes wisdom to be effective at winning souls to God.

1 COR. 9:19-22 (READ) "All things to all men…"

PROVERBS 11:30 "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life: and he that wins souls is
wise."

G) Be Kind, Courteous and Hospitable to All- as much as we are able. Remember - KINDNESS
is a fruit of the Spirit. Do not be rude. Take the time to let the unsaved person speak. Never
cut him off or get into a heated argument where tempers flare. Especially your temper.
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MATTHEW 5:44 "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate
you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."

H) Try To Find Out What People Believe before sharing the Good News. Unless the Spirit is
giving you the right things to say - you may be wasting your time. Not everyone can be
reached by the same methods or by using the same scriptures.

I) Obey The Promptings Of The Holy Spirit - Many times the Spirit will nudge your heart and tell
you what to say.

J) Be Bold When You Witness - Proverbs 28:1 "The righteous are bold as a lion." Many are
impressed when Christians boldly share the gospel. However, boldness needs to be mixed
with wisdom, respect and sensitivity.

K) Be A Good Example In Church Attendance - It is disgraceful when visitors show up at Church

meetings and Christians are not present. Be faithful to the Assembly and Be On Time.