Bible Class Notes

Bible Class Notes



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The following are notes taken during Bible class at Harvest Christian Center.
October 3, 2007
TEMPERANCE
  • Temperance is self-control. It is one of the cardinal Christian virtues.

    • Study: 1 Corinthians 9:25; Titus 1:8, 2:2; Galatians 5:25; Philippians 4:5; Philippians 4:8; Ephesians 4:26; Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 3:8; 1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Peter 1:5-11
    OFFENSIVE BEHAVIOR
  • Offensive human spirit is something that we do that might offend someone else.
  • People can be offended by silly things. We must be cautious always. God must be always in charge in order that we check our offensive human spirit.
  • We must not be offended by others and show this. We must pray for those who would otherwise offend us.
  • Rather than show offense, we must show an example to others, so that we gain their respect.
  • We see things from our own perspective and must be cautious to recognize the viewpoints of others.
  • Many times we are in a situation where we do not know the whole story. We must ask God to make all clear to us.

    • Study: Matthew 22:39; Romans 12:9-21; Romans 13:10; Philippians 2:3-5; Romans 14:13-21; 1 Corinthians 8:9-13; 2 Corinthians 5:16; Romans 14:2,3; 1 Corinthians 8:8; Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:13; 1 Timothy 4:1-5
    PRINCIPLES OF FAITH
  • Love your neighbor as you love yourself.
  • Serve the Lord enthusiastically.
  • If people persecute you because you are a Christian, do not curse them. Live in peace with everyone. Pray for those who persecute you.
  • Never take vengeance yourself—let God take care of that.
  • Listen to others. Give others the opportunity to speak. Help carry their burdens.
  • Do not allow yourself to become part of the problem.
  • Your attitude should be the same as Christ Jesus had.
  • We must control our behavior so as not to bring offense to others.
  • Do not judge others by their outward appearance alone.
  • Respect and tolerance for the differences in others should be a priority.
  • God says we are to lift each other up.
  • People who are discriminated against have a tendency to discriminate against others.
  • We are all equal in the sight of God. There is no inequality.
  • God's Word is the final authority. If it is not in the Bible, it is not right.
  • Pray and ask the Lord to lead you in reading his Word.

    • Study: Matthew 22:39; Romans 12:9-21; Philippians 2:3-5
    October 10, 2007
    ADDICTION AND ENSLAVEMENT
  • Your sinful nature likes to do evil. Do not allow your sinful nature to take hold. You must battle against your sinful nature.
  • Your choices are never free from this conflict, but when you are directed by the Holy Spirit, you are no longer subject to the law.
  • Anyone who allows his sinful nature to reign will not inherit the kingdom of Heaven.
  • We must learn to walk in Godly victory over the lust of the flesh.
  • One of the primary benefits of living in Christ is freedom from enslavement and addiction.
  • You are then freed from the power of sin, which leads to death. If God has freed you, you can stand in freedom from sin.
  • The struggle will bring you victory over enslavement.
  • Everyone is affected by your addiction/enslavement.
  • Do not allow anything to keep you from becoming what God intends for you to be. I can do all things through Christ.
  • It is not just about us getting free from enslavement and addiction. It is about helping our neighbors become free.
  • We must learn to ask God to fill us instead of expecting food to fill us. Moderation in all things is the key.

    • Homework: Write down favorite verses on cards, keep them in your pocket, read them throughout the day, and meditate upon them throughout the day.
    Study: John 8:32, 36; Romans 6:14; Romans 8:2; Galatians 5:1; Proverbs 20:1; Proverbs 23:20-35; Isaiah 28:7; 1 Corinthians 3:17; 1 Corinthians 5:11; 1 Corinthians 6:10; 2 Corinthians 7:1; James 1:21
    October 17th
    MODEST APPEARANCE
  • Be modest in dress—not extravagant. Do not dress in such a way as to bring dishonor to God or temptation to others.
  • Be modest in dress and speech and thought.
  • Modesty is how we live practically before the Lord and why we do it.
  • Dress in such a manner as to enhance our Christian witness. Behavior should mirror this.
  • Speak only that which is good and edifying.
  • Sympathy = part of the problem.
  • Empathy = part of the solution.
  • When you speak, you should speak what the Holy Spirit desires—not what you desire.
  • Do not become a part of the anger. Become a reflection of God's love.
  • As Christians, we do not have the option of NOT loving those whom we do not like.
  • The wrath of God shall fall upon those who disobey.
  • You are no longer in a place of darkness. You are now walking in the light. You are children of the light of Jesus Christ.
  • Let not the adornment be what man has created. Modest adornment is acceptable. First, look at our inner beauty. Then turn to the outer beauty.
  • Use modesty in dress, adornment, and makeup.
  • Dress not to entice or lure.
  • Do not take this to the extreme: Plain dress is unnecessary. Drabness is not what God intended.
  • Do not conform to this world.
  • Above all, we must seek spiritual beauty.
  • Do not dress in such a manner as to encourage immorality.
  • Do not show preference to those who are dressed with more finery. Do not be impressed by outward appearances.

    • Study: Ephesians 4:25, 29, 31; Ephesians 5:1-8; 1 Timothy 2:9, 10; Romans 12:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:22, 23; Philippians 4:8; 1 Peter 3:3-5; Galatians 5:13-21; 1 Peter 2:11; 2 Peter 1:4; James 2:1-4
    October 25, 2007
    SOCIAL OBLIGATION
  • God does not show favoritism. You cannot choose your friends, your relatives, or your enemies if you follow Jesus.
  • Jesus kept strange company.
  • Only by understanding the universal law of God can we overcome prejudice.
  • Most social injustices are based on prejudice.
  • Change whatever area of prejudice you have into a prayer.
  • What we may think is a battle or an obstacle for us is not a battle or an obstacle for God. With God, all things are possible.
  • Prejudice breeds prejudice.
  • We do not have to tolerate sin. We do not have to accept the ways of the world.
  • We are to obey God rather than man.
  • We are not to violate the laws of man, unless they disagree with the laws of God.
  • When you see something going wrong, take a stand.
  • If someone in your presence takes the Lord's name in vain, take a stand and tell the speaker you are offended.
  • If you see an advertisement that is objectionable, tell the sponsor and/or the television station.
  • It should be your goal to be a good citizen and fulfill your social obligation by correcting social injustice and protecting the sanctity of life.

    • Study: Mark 12:13-17; Romans 12:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17; Acts 5:29; Acts 10:34; Acts 17:26; Matthew 2 2:39; Romans 13:8-10; 1 John 3:17; Luke 10:30-37; James 1:17; Genesis 1:1-31; John 15:13; Psalm 31:14, 15; Jeremiah 1:5; Luke 1:41; Genesis 1:26-30
    November 7th, 2007
    DOCTRINAL COMMITMENTS
    REPENTANCE
  • Sin = to miss the mark. Sin began in Heaven when Lucifer was cast down.
  • Adam should have protected Eve from the serpent.
  • We are all born with a sinful nature. We rebel against God's law. We have a tendency to rebel against God's law.
  • God sent Jesus to die for us to cleanse us of our sin.
  • Genesis 3:15 = The first promise from God that he is going to save us.
  • Repentance = to turn from sin and turn to God and faith toward Jesus Christ, who is our Lord and Savior.
  • We must first recognize the need to repent.
  • It is the Holy Spirit's job to convict the world of sin and to convince people of their need for Jesus.
  • Jesus Christ is the only way to Heaven. This is stated in the Bible.
  • As witnesses, it is not our job to convict or convince. The Holy Spirit will do that.
  • We offend God when we do not speak out and tell the world about Jesus.
  • God wants everyone to come to Jesus and be saved.
  • We offend God when we sin.
  • We must have remorse for our sins. We must repent.
  • When we repent, we place our trust in the righteousness offered us through Jesus Christ.
  • We must learn to serve Jesus and take a stand.
  • God must be kept in first place. Nothing must take his place in our hearts.
  • When we repent of our old lives, we are given new lives by Jesus Christ.
  • Do not offend God.
  • We are delivered of our sinful life by Jesus Christ.

    • Study: Mark 1:15; Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19
    JUSTIFICATION
  • Justification = to pronounce free from blame. God makes us innocent to sin by his grace through his son, Jesus Christ.
  • God set forth Jesus Christ to save us from our sin.
  • Not by works but by faith in God are we saved and declared innocent.
  • Jesus took the punishment for our sins and shed his blood to declare us free from sin.
  • Our acquittal is not based on our good deeds but on our faith in Jesus Christ.
  • We are free of the guilt of sin. If we do not allow Jesus Christ to free us from the guilt of sin, Satan will step in, and we will fall prey to his tempting.
  • We have peace with God because Jesus Christ overcame the world, and we have accepted his gift and placed our faith in him.
  • We are called the "friends of God."
  • All those who love and obey God shall be his friends.

    • Study: Romans 5:1; Titus 3:7
    REGENERATION
  • Once we were dead. Now, we are alive. We are brand-new creations in Jesus Christ.
  • We are given a new birth through the Holy Spirit. We are new creatures in Jesus Christ.
  • We have an obligation to present the message of reconciliation to the world and to present Jesus Christ to the world.
  • The heart that we had was infected with sin. Regeneration through Jesus Christ gives us a new heart without sin.

    • Study: Titus 3:5
    November 14th, 2007
    DOCTRINAL COMMITMENTS
  • New birth - John 3 - born again
  • Unless we are born again, we will never see the kingdom of Heaven.
  • Everyone who believes in Jesus Christ shall have eternal life.
  • For God sent Jesus not to condemn the world but to save it.
  • Unless there is a change of heart and spirit through rebirth, there can be no salvation.
  • We will not get peace unless our whole heart is made different.
  • Never have a conversation with a demon. They are liars. Rebuke the demons in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • Do not hide in the dark. Come into the light and let yourself be known as a follower of Jesus.
  • We must be for God, or we are against God. We must make a stand.
  • To be born again, we must lead a new life. We must begin to live a new life.
  • We must go back to the foundation to rebuild our lives.
  • Our foundation must be Jesus Christ.
  • We are a new creation in Jesus.
  • Our first birth saw us born into the world. In our new birth, we are born into Jesus.
  • God gives us pain to be borne from above.
  • A life of communion leads to God.
  • We must partake of the divine nature of God and eschew our human nature.
  • The natural man must become the spiritual man.
  • We must not feed the fleshy man anymore. We must feed the spiritual man.
  • Happy is the man who obeys the laws of God.
  • Life, happiness, comfort, and joy are ours only through Jesus Christ.
  • We must turn our backs away from this world and turn to Jesus.
  • We must turn to Jesus in humility.
  • The change in our life is not brought into fruition by any act of our own.
  • Jesus is the one who cleanses us.
  • The Holy Spirit regenerates us.
  • There is nothing we can do about the sin in our lives. Jesus has already done this for us.
  • Every individual must receive Jesus Christ himself.
  • We are not our own. We were bought with the blood of Jesus Christ.
  • Do not allow the world to influence you.
  • When we are born again, we no longer follow the ways of the world.

    • Study: Leviticus 19:28; John 3:3; 1 Peter 1:23; 1 John 3:9
    November 28th, 2007
    BEING HOLY
  • God: Be holy, as I am holy.
  • God's plan for salvation in our lives includes the past, the present, and the future.
  • Glorification: Our mortal bodies will be transformed into immortal bodies.
  • We do not continue in a life of sin after we give our hearts to Jesus.
  • Jesus: Love your enemies.
  • If your enemy does not have a coat, give him a coat. Do not expect it back.
  • If your enemy has no money, loan him money, and do not expect to be repaid.
  • Our sins are forgiven, but the source of our sin remains—our sinful human spirit.
  • When we are dead to sin, when we give our hearts to Jesus Christ.
  • The absence of light is dark. Jesus is the light of the world.
  • There is a continued war going on, but we do not have to lose this war.
  • God does not intend for us to live in conflict.
  • God intended for us to lead holy lives, free from sin.
  • Christ died in our place. He died for our sins.
  • Our salvation is a gift of grace.
  • Jesus makes us holy.
  • Christ's death paid the penalty for our sins.
  • There is no condemnation for those who accept Christ Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
  • It is human nature to wish not to die.
  • We must die to our sins and unholy lives in order to allow Christ to reign in our lives.
  • Sin in God's eyes keeps us away from him.
  • We can be delivered from sin by offering ourselves as slaves to God.
  • Otherwise, we are slaves to sin.
  • We were bought with a price—the blood of Jesus Christ.
  • We are the real temple of God. (Not a building.)
  • Sanctification: We are no longer available to be used by sin.
  • Say NO to sin, and say YES to God.
  • We cannot say yes to God until we say no to sin.
  • We do not have to sin.
  • Say no to sin, and Satan will flee.
  • If we sin and ask for forgiveness, Jesus will stand before the Father and plead our cases.

    • Study: Romans 5:2; 1 Corinthians 1:30; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Hebrews 13:12
    December 5th, 2007
    WATER BAPTISM
  • Matthew 3: Jesus came to John the Baptist to be baptized before he began his teaching.
  • When priests were anointed to preach in the tabernacle, they were first washed to cleanse them.
  • Jesus was baptized in the Holy Spirit.
  • Baptism: To immerse, to submerge, to overwhelm, to be completely underwater.
  • Baptism symbolizes our death, burial, and rebirth--just as Jesus experienced.
  • Through baptism, one identifies himself with Jesus Christ.
  • Sprinkling water is not baptism and is not scripturally sound.
  • John the Baptist began baptizing in the River Jordan.
  • John the Baptist taught repentance for the cleansing of sin.
  • John the Baptist was a cousin of Jesus.
  • Baptism is a ritual dedicated to Jesus Christ, making one a disciple of Jesus.
  • One must humble himself--identify himself with Jesus Christ--prior to baptism.
  • "Christian" was first used as a derisive term, meaning "slave of Jesus Christ.
  • When one becomes a Christian, one identifies himself with Jesus.
  • One makes a covenant with God to obey the Holy Spirit--even to the point of death.
  • Past sins are buried--one is a brand-new being in Jesus.
  • Ones old life is gone. One has a new life given to him by God through ones faith in Jesus Christ.
  • One must confront those Christians who are not walking the path properly.
  • Baptism is only for those who fully believe.
  • One must have a brand-new life of trusting in Jesus Christ.
  • Baptism should never be done to please others. It should only be done by those who believe full-heartedly.
  • One must be fully committed to Jesus Christ before one can be baptized.
  • One must have a sincere trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
  • After a person has been baptized, he is accountable and can be reproved by others if he does not act like Jesus.
  • A whole-hearted faith, a repentance, and an intent to live for Jesus are required.
  • If one is baptized and committed, one must be held accountable and must lift each other up and help each other.
  • We do not attack other Christians who need help--we help them and lift them up.
  • Babies cannot be baptized, because they are incapable of understanding the Gospel.
  • If a baby dies, he goes to Heaven.

    • Study: Matthew 28:19; Mark 1:9; Mark 1:10; John 3:22; John 3:23; Acts 8:36; Acts 8:38
    December 12, 2007
    BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY GHOST SUBSEQUENT TO CLEANSING
  • The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity.
  • We are living in the era of the Holy Spirit.
  • The Holy Spirit speaks and hears.
  • The Holy Spirit is our guide.
  • The Holy Spirit empowers us to walk like Jesus.
  • The Holy Spirit can be grieved. The Holy Spirit can be blasphemed.
  • The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin. We do not have to convict others of sin. The Holy Spirit will do this.
  • The Holy Spirit convinces people of their need for Jesus.
  • The Holy Spirit is our comfort, our guide. He walks along side us.
  • He will reveal the things of God and the truths of God.
  • Come into church, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to the truth.
  • He will lead us to do God's will.
  • He speaks to us, and he speaks through us.
  • He empowers us to act.
  • Acts 1:8 - the theme of the Book of Acts.
  • He will inspire us.
  • He prays for us.
  • He gives us gifts. 1st Corinthians 12-13-14,
  • He draws attention to himself to bring glory to Jesus.
  • We are baptized into the Holy Spirit.
  • The Holy Spirit will do all for us without baptism by/into the Holy Spirit, but the baptism is the next step.
  • Baptism = receiving the Holy Spirit in an abundant, overflowing manner--empowering us.
  • By baptism into the Holy Spirit, we set ourselves apart, completely surrendering to Jesus.
  • We are all spiritual beings, and we will all spend eternity somewhere--either in eternal life with Jesus or in eternal death without Jesus.
  • Physical evidence that you have been baptized in the Holy Spirit - speaking in tongues.

    • Study: Matthew 3:11; Luke 24:49; Luke 24:53; Acts 1:4; Acts 1:8
    December 19, 2007
    SPIRITUAL GIFTS
  • 1 Corinthians 12: The gifts of the Holy Spirit
  • Gifts give us the ability to follow Jesus and disciple others.
  • Jesus gives us the anointing to fulfill the Great Commission.
  • The Holy Spirit bestows upon us the ability to fulfill the discipleship of Jesus.
  • Luke 24:47-49: Jesus promised us he would send the Holy Spirit.
  • Jesus equipped the apostles to do divine work.
  • Matthew 16:19: We have the power from Jesus to have authority over demons and evil and the powers of darkness, to deliver us from bondage.
  • You must have authority from the Holy Spirit to be free from bondage.
  • Make yourself available to the Holy Spirit.
  • 1 Corinthians 12: Special abilities the Holy Spirit gives each of us.
  • God does not want us to be ignorant of the Holy Spirit.
  • Spiritual Gifts: Spiritual grace.
  • God calls us "sheep." We need a shepherd.
  • 1st gifts are vocal gifts.
  • Gifts are never earned--they are always divinely given.
  • Gifts are to encourage the Body of Christ.
  • Gifts of the Holy Spirit encourage us to avoid sin.
  • We are empowered by the Holy Spirit. We do not need to give in to sin.
  • Draw near to God, and Satan will run from you.
  • Satan is a thief, a murderer, and a liar.
  • Manifestations: Outward evidence of the presence of the Holy Spirit.
  • God intends that the gifts of the Holy Spirit should operate through everyone.
  • Diversity: Many gifts--the great variety of manifestations of the Holy Spirit.
  • Just make yourself available to the Holy Spirit.
  • The Holy Spirit will give you the words you need to speak to give courage and comfort to others.

    • Study: 1 Corinthians 12:1; 1 Corinthians 12:7; 1 Corinthians 12:10; 1 Corinthians 12:28; 1 Corinthians 12:31; 1 Corinthians 14:1
    January 2nd, 2008
  • 1 Corinthians 12 - Gifts of the Holy Spirit
  • 1 Corinthians 3:16 - the temple of the Holy Spirit is the church/us
  • What temple can man build in which God would want to live? None. God lives in us. We are the temple.
  • Man was created in God's image.
  • We are the temple of the Holy Spirit.
  • The special gifts of the Holy Spirit = charismatic gifts
  • Many gifts - all separated - you know that when you were still pagans you were led astray.
  • A spiritual gift is given to each of us to help the whole church/body of Christ.
  • The Holy Spirit alone decides who gets which gifts.
  • Not everyone has all gifts. They are given by the Holy Spirit.
  • Manifestation - given for the moment.
  • The gift of the Holy Spirit is love.
  • The word of wisdom - comes together with another gift to become a vocal gift, for example, the gift of prophesy.
  • Surrendering your life to Jesus = accepting the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
  • You are marked with the Holy Spirit - proving that you belong to God.
  • You do not belong to yourself. You were bought with a price--the blood of Jesus Christ.
  • The gifts are not just for the few--they are for everyone.
  • Seek the mind of the Holy Spirit. Seek the way of Christ.
  • Gifts may bring resolution, direction, or explanation.
  • The Holy Spirit brings the church back to where it belongs. This is for knowledge and all action for the church--not for personal direction.
  • Test the prophets. If they do not speak the Word of God, they are false prophets.
  • Manifestations - gifts within the body of Christ.
  • Gifts are given to exhort, edify, and comfort the whole church.
  • Supernatural gifts are given for a moment in time.
  • Special faith - works in conjunction with healing and miracles.
  • Gifts of healings and miracles are the only gifts that are plural.
  • Mark 11:22 - faith can move a mountain.
  • The gift of healing represents the Holy Spirit.
  • Sometimes it is the faith of the person being healed that is necessary.
  • We are commanded to pray. It is God's choice when to address that prayer.
    • January 9th, 2008
    1 Corinthians 12 - Gifts of the Holy Spirit
  • Gifts of miracles - the operation of miracles
  • One must have the gift of faith to perform miracles.
  • Not everyone will be healed. It is for God to decide when and if someone will be healed.
  • We must pray and give thanks for healing without expectations.
  • We can rejoice in our weaknesses because God's strength is perfect. We rely upon God's strength--not on our own.
  • Temporary manifestations of the Holy Spirit - gifts given for a time only.
  • We must pray that the gifts we desire are for the edification of the whole body.
  • The gift of healings will not make us miracle workers.
  • God can break into anyone's world.
  • The supernatural manifestation of power through faith in God is a gift of the Holy Spirit.
  • We must learn to be disciplined and ordered to employ the gift of miracles.
  • God always uses miracles and healings to teach us something.
  • God does not perform miracles simply to amaze.
  • Miracles teach us and cause us to follow God.
  • Miracles are still for us today.
  • The healing of the sick, the casting out of demons, miracles, signs, and wonders.
  • Souls are won to the Lord by witnessing miracles--God's kindness and love.
  • Special miracles = prayer over clothing, etc., and prayers answered as if they were made over the ill person.
  • God will hear our prayers. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit.
  • Prophet = one who predicts or speaks before of an event. A temporary gift. A spirit-filled believer.
  • The gift of prophecy lifts up the body of Christ.
  • Prophecy may work with the gift of tongues.
  • Test everyone -- the discerning of the prophecy.
  • Tongues = man, angels, etc. Angels praise and prayer. Man edification.
  • Not everyone speaks in tongues.
  • Interpretation of tongues = so that everyone can be encouraged and edified.

    • Homework: Count number of times "afraid" spoken in the Gospels.
    Homework Report:
    Matthew 1:20 - Angel - "do not be afraid"
    Matthew 8:26 - Jesus - "why are you afraid?"
    Matthew 10:26 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    Matthew 10:28 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    Matthew 10:31 - Jesus - "so don't be afraid"
    Matthew 14:27 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    Matthew 17:7 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    Matthew 24:6 - Jesus - "but don't panic"
    Matthew 28:5 - Angel - "don't be afraid
    Matthew 28:10 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    Mark 4:40 - Jesus - "why are you afraid?"
    Mark 5:36 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    Mark 6:50 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    Luke 1:13 - Angel - "don't be afraid"
    Luke 1:30 - Angel - "don't be afraid"
    Luke 2:10 - Angel - "don't be afraid"
    Luke 5:10 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    Luke 8:50 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    Luke 12:32 - Jesus - "so don't be afraid"
    Luke 24:38 - Jesus - "why are you frightened?"
    John 6:20 - Jesus - "don't be afraid"
    John 14:1 - Jesus - "don't let your hearts be troubled"
    January 16th, 2008
    The Fruit of the Holy Spirit
  • Men and trees are known by their fruit.
  • Fruit of the Holy Spirit is the result of following God's commandments.
  • The entire law is summed up in one commandment: Love your neighbor as you love yourself.
  • Those who live sinful lives will not inherit the kingdom of Heaven.
  • There are 9 visible attributes of the fruit of the Holy Spirit:
    • - love
    - joy
    - peace
    - gentleness
    - patience
    - kindness
    - goodness
    - faithfulness
    - self-control
  • Fruit = the sanctification at work in our life.
  • Fruit of the Holy Spirit develops only as we stay in close association with Jesus Christ.
  • Love - always seeks the highest good of the other person.
  • Our greatest goal is to do all things in love.
  • Love does not delight in evil--always seeks the truth.
  • God is love - the holy life.
  • Love never stops believing.
  • The love that God has for us is what we should have for others.
  • Joy = the assurance that we are members of God's family no matter what life brings.
  • The joy of the Lord is our strength.
  • We can be led by the Holy Spirit to do anything.
  • Peace = we all long for peace--a state of rest and calmness.
  • A harmonious relationship between God and man.
  • Do not worry about anything--pray for everything.
  • God reconciles everything to himself.
  • We must experience love to have peace.
  • God blesses those who work for peace.
    Study: 1 John 4:8; John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8; 1 Corinthians 13:13; 1 John 4:16; Colossians 1:10-11; Hebrews 12:2; Nehemiah 8:10; 1 Peter 1:8; 2 Corinthians 8:2; Romans 5:1; John 14:27; Romans 15:13; Philippians 4:6-7; Colossians 1:20; Psalm 119:165; Romans 12:18; 1 Corinthians 14:33; Romans 14:19; Matthew 5:9
    January 23, 2008
    FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
  • One fruit with nine aspects.
  • We are learning to interface with others in the way God interfaces with us.
  • Patience / Kindness / Goodness - the model the Holy Spirit wants to develop in us.
  • Patience = the ability to deal with the frailty and weakness of others.
  • Patience = true Godly love.
  • God is patient with those who are the objects of his mercy.
  • God is patient and loving for our sakes--giving us more time.
  • The goal of God's patience is bringing people into reconciliation.
  • We patiently endure hardships and trials--proving we are following God's principles.
  • We serve God whether people honor us or slander us.
  • We always have joy.
  • We own nothing, but we have everything.
  • Patience allows us to inherit God's promises.
  • Be completely humble always--be patient.
  • Warn those who are lazy. Energize those who are weak.
  • The way God extends himself to us in Christ is how we are to extend ourselves to others.
  • Kindness = acting with Godly graciousness toward others.
  • To receive God's kindness, trust in God and you will receive God's kindness. He wants to be our friend and offer us a new life through the Holy Spirit.
  • We must make allowances for others' faults and forgive those who offend us.
  • Do not expect to be repaid.
  • Goodness = dealing generously with others.
  • Being good and doing good.
  • Goodness takes action.
  • Only God is good. He is good, and his love endures forever.
  • We are God's masterpiece. He created us in his image and made us new creatures in Christ.
  • We are unique.
  • A good person produces good works from a good heart.
  • Goodness results from repeatedly doing good.
    • January 30, 2008
    Fruit of the Spirit - 1 fruit, 9 parts
  • Faithfulness = society expects us to be faithful.
  • The church needs and expects us to be faithful.
  • The fullness and steadfastness of the believer.
  • God is faithful and helps us remain faithful.
  • When we are tempted, He shows us a way out.
  • God is faithful; He will be there.
  • God will make us strong and guard us from the evil one.
  • Whenever we are fearful, we must turn to God's word.
  • God is faithful to forgive us.
  • Moses was faithful.
  • Trustworthy people are able to pass trustworthiness onto others.
  • Do not be afraid ow what you are about to suffer.
  • Faithfulness requires strength.
  • Gentleness = anger controlled by the Holy Spirit; passion under control.
  • Even balance of all tempers and angers.
  • Rule your own spirit.
  • Meekness without weakness.
  • Being gentle requires great strength.
  • Moses displayed his controlled anger.
  • God blesses those who are gentle.
  • The unfading beauty of a gentle spirit is priceless to God.
  • Spiritual maturity will help others overcome sin in their lives.
  • Gentleness and politics go together.
  • Make allowances for each others' faults.
  • Gentleness is not a personality trait. It is a willing submission to God and His word.
  • Self control.
  • Controlling our passions rather than allowing Satan to take control.
  • When we do not exercise self control, we compromise and lose our effective judgment.
  • Loss of self control leads to loss of freedom.
  • Self control is necessary for overall spiritual growth.
  • Titus 1:7-9 = Instructions for an elder: Must love all that is good.
  • Divine Healing
  • God cares about the sick and the suffering.
  • Healing is part of the ongoing work in God's church, while we wait for the return of Jesus.
  • The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
  • God did not cause human suffering; it is a result of the fall.
  • The consequences of sin include affliction and suffering.
  • God's intent is the resurrection of the entire spirit.
  • Prayer and healing are evidenced together.
  • Jesus is a healer.
  • Jesus died on the cross for our spiritual well-being.
    • February 6, 2008
    COMMUNION
  • 1 Corinthians 11:23 - The Last Supper
  • The new covenant between God and us.
  • Examine yourself before taking Communion.
  • If your mind, heart, body, and soul are not prepared to accept Communion in the solemnity in which it should be received, you should not receive it, or you will be sinning against God.
  • Christ's presence strengthens us.
  • We are part of something eternal, since we are one with Christ.
  • The new covenant completes—and does not replace—the old covenant.
  • We must confess sin and be properly prepared when we take Communion.
  • We must be reverent and appreciative of what Christ did for us.
  • Look ahead - await the second coming of Jesus Christ.
  • Look within - repent of any sin before you accept Communion.
  • If we confess our sins, God is faithful to forgive us.
  • Communion is a time to ask God what his goal is for us in our life.
    • February 13, 2008
    DOCTRINAL COMMITMENTS
    FOOT-WASHING
  • Foot-washing is a very selfless service.
  • Jesus taught His disciples about the humility of foot-washing.
  • John 13:4 = The Lord's Supper - Washing the disciples' feet - focusing on the study of God's Word.
  • Jesus appeared in the character of a servant and washed and dried the disciples' feet.
  • "Not all of you are clean..." - Jesus knew who would betray him.
  • Love your enemy - hurt them not - pray for them and soften their hearts.
  • "If I do not wash you, you have no part of me..." - Jesus told his disciples he must take on the character of a servant and show humility as an example.
  • If you humble yourself, God will lift you up.
  • We need to be humble with one another.
  • Jesus wants us to have a servant's heart.
  • God makes no mistakes - all that he does is on purpose.
  • A servant is not greater than his master.
  • We must take on the heart of a servant.
  • We must have a humble heart and be in service for one another.
    • February 20, 2008
    Millionaire Habits
    Change my thinking:
  • What do I really appreciate?
  • When is the last time I read a book about finances?
    Live below my means:
  • Do I spend more than I make?
  • Am I willing to buy used items instead of new?
  • What is one indulgence I can do without?
  • How much could I save by making my lunch or eating dinner at home?
  • Homemade gifts I can make and give.
    Finding my niche:
  • Am I satisfied with my career and how I spend my time?
  • Am I earning enough to meet my needs?
  • Have I consulted God about my career choice?
  • Do I need to make any changes?
  • Am I sharing my knowledge?
    Save and give:
  • Am I a generous giver?
  • Am I saving money for my family or myself?
  • What are ways that I can save more?
  • Do I understand how to invest my savings?
    Avoid credit:
  • Do I have an emergency fund?
  • What do I need to do to put money into an emergency fund?
  • My plan to save for large expenses.
  • My plan to avoid credit.
    February 27th, 2008
    Doctrinal Commitments
    2nd Coming of Jesus Christ
  • Matthew 26:64 - He promised to return.
  • Matthew 22:3 and 9
  • Acts 1:11 - angels affirmed that He would return.
  • Acts 3:19-21
  • Jesus began the redemption process when he was born.
  • He brought salvation.
  • He was the Silent Lamb.
  • His glory.
  • 2nd Advent - complete redemption process.
  • He will bring judgment.
  • Coming as a conquering lion.
  • Death no longer has a hold over Jesus.
  • Everyone will see Him.
  • He will come in great splendor.
  • Our eyes will all be opened when He returns.
  • When will He come? We do not know. We must always be ready for His return.
  • We should be:
    - watchful
    - hopeful
    - place value on the external
    - should not remain idle
    - must be curious
    - plan for the future
    - faithful
    - obedient
    - living holy lives
  • If we know what is right to do and do not do it, we are sinning.
  • The world is going to be surprised.
  • We should believe in our hearts that Jesus is coming back in our lives.
  • We should always be ready.
  • The Second Coming is approaching.
  • The Rapture will occur before the Great Tribulation, so that Christians are carried away before the Tribulation.
  • Tribulation is God's wrath upon non-believers.
  • Persecution is wrath from non-believers on believers.
  • There will be a one-world government.
  • There will be an anti-Christ.
    March 5th, 2008
    The End Times
    The Final Destiny of our lives
  • This is the time to decide where you will spend eternity.
  • Eternal Destiny = eternal life.
  • There is no teaching that is clearer than final destiny.
  • John 10:28
  • Those who do not follow after Christ shall suffer everlasting separation from Christ.
  • Those who follow Christ shall have eternal life with Christ.
  • Every 10,000 years, a bird swoops down and takes a small chip out of the earth with its beak. Eternity is the time it takes for the bird to reduce earth to the size of a pea.
  • Jesus spoke more about hell and punishment than he did about heaven.
  • Revelation 19:20 - 20:10, 14, 15 - 21: 7, 8
  • Separation from God
    - outer darkness
    - unquenchable fire
    - everlasting torment
    - eternal punishment
    - everlasting destruction
  • The wrath of God for all eternity.
  • Vengeance is mine, sayeth the Lord.
  • 2nd Death - cast into the Lake of Fire.
  • Matthew 25:46
  • At the end of 1000 years, the beast is cast into the Lake of Fire.
  • At the end of another 1000 years, Satan is cast into the Lake of Fire.
  • Revelation 19:20 - Satan's heart does not change.
  • Satan's final destiny is the Lake of Fire.
  • He that has the Son has life, and he that does not have the Son does not have life.
  • Col. 1:27 - quality of life.
  • John 14:2, 3 - Jesus promised us He will prepare a place for us in His Father's house.
  • John 14:2, 3 - many mansions, many rooms.
  • Matthew 6:10 - eternal isolation.
  • Our life in Christ is eternal. - praise
    - beauty
    - glory
    - joy
    - reward
    - personal identity
    - resurrected bodies
  • We will be as Jesus is.
  • Nothing can touch Jesus.
  • After the Resurrection, we will be free from death.
  • Death for a Christian is not punishment.
  • Revelation 22
    March 12th, 2008
    Eschatology = doctrine of the Last Days
  • Acts 2:16-21 - initial outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
  • Prior to this, Peter was a coward.
  • FOG = Fear of God.
  • Now, Peter walks in the fear of God, since he has been baptized in the Holy Spirit.
  • Peter preaches his first sermon.
  • The sun will turn to darkness.
  • The moon will turn blood red.
  • Anyone who calls in the name of the Lord will be saved.
  • Luke 17:21 = when will the Kingdom of God come? Jesus said the Kingdom of God is among you.
  • We can live in the power of the Kingdom of God now.
  • Romans 8:23 = the future glory--relief from pain and suffering--the new body Christ has promised us.
  • The spirit of the anti-Christ is among us now.
  • We must focus on God, who has everything under control.
  • Physical death is the separation of the soul from the body.
  • This world will not last forever. Death in this world is the entrance into paradise for the believer.
  • The non-believer: Death is his entrance into hell.
  • The believer is excited, because he can triumphantly declare he will be in heaven with Jesus Christ.
  • Adam died a spiritual death. He was separated from God forever.
  • John 3:14 = we pass from death to life.
  • James 5:20 = snatched from the fire--saved from eternal death.
  • Luke 16 = story of rich man and Lazarus.
  • Lev. 19:30 / 20:6
  • Deut. 18:9-12
  • Is. 8:19-20
  • DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CONTACT THE DEAD!
    March 19th, 2008
    Second Coming of Jesus
  • He will conquer Satan.
  • Mat. 25:31, 32 = Jesus will sit on his throne in heavenly glory.
  • We must be spiritually prepared for His return.
  • Be watchful and be ready.
  • Thes. 1 and 2
  • Mat. 24-28
  • Mark 13
  • Luke 21
  • Revelation
  • Romans 8:23-25 = foretells of future glory.
  • James 5:7 = be patient and wait for His return.
  • 1 Thes. 3:12-13 = love for one another. Make your heart strong and wait for His return.
  • Romans 13:12-14 = the day of salvation will soon be here.
  • Do not let yourself think about impure desires.
  • Titus
  • Hebrews 10:25 = meet together for worship.
  • 1 Timothy 4:13-15 = encourage believers.
  • Keep a close watch on how you live.
  • 2 Timothy 4:22 = urges us to be prepared--preach the Word of God.
  • 1 Thes. = turn away from idols.
  • 1 Thes. 4:13-18 = when Jesus returns, he will bring back the believers who have died.
  • Encourage each other.
  • No on knows when Christ will return.
  • Stay focused.
  • If someone predicts the time of Jesus' return, he is wrong. Only God knows. Not even Jesus or the angels know.
  • If we knew the time of Christ's return, we might be lazy.
  • Christ's second coming will be swift. The life we have lived will be that upon which our eternal future is based.
  • The second coming will be a literal return.
  • Prophecies will be fulfilled literally.
  • Acts 1:11 = Christ's second coming will be visible to everyone. Everyone will see Him, and they will know it is Jesus.
  • Matthew 24:44 = the Son of man will come in an hour when you do not expect Him.
  • Be ready and keep watch.
  • Matthew 24 = Jesus reveals the signs of coming events. Many will come in Jesus' name, but they will be false prophets.
  • False prophets and false messiahs will perform great signs and wonders.
  • Luke 21:7 = signs of the second coming.
  • Persecution - your opportunity to speak of Jesus.
  • Everyone will know you because you are my followers, Jesus said.
  • 1 Timothy 4:1-3 = in the last days some will turn away. They are hypocrites and liars.
  • 1 Timothy 3:1-6 = stay away from people who are false prophets.
  • 1 Thes. 5:1-3 = signs
  • 2 Thes. 2:1-13 = second coming. Do not be alarmed by those who say the day has begun.
  • The anti-Christ will come into power, and many will believe his lies.
  • 2 Peter 3:1-10
  • Revelation 14:9-12
  • Rapture = 1 Thes. 4:13-17 = we will meet the Lord in the air.
  • When everything is ready, Jesus will come and get us.
  • We will be with the Lord forever.
  • The Great Tribulation will end with the battle of Armageddon.
  • The believers' bodies will be like Jesus'.
  • Keep watch = know what the Bible says about upcoming events and compare to what is taking place.
    March 26th, 2008
  • We cannot know when Jesus is coming.
  • We can be taken before the rapture individually. We do not know when we will die.
  • We must always be ready.
  • Second Coming = Part 1 - Jesus arrives in the air and Christians meet Him there.
  • John 16:33 = Tribulation
  • The word "tribulation" is used 3 different ways throughout the Bible.
  • In this world we will have tribulations because we are Christians.
  • 1500 scriptures in Constitution of U.S. - We do not suffer persecution in the U.S. because this country was built upon Christian principles.
  • Be of good cheer.
  • 1 John 3;1 - The world does not recognize Jesus Christ.
  • Special peril of tribulation in Israel - Daniel 9:24-27. A period of tribulation for Israel.
  • The end will come with a flood and with war.
  • Jer. 30:70.
  • Revelation 6:12-17 = God's final wrath upon the anti-Christ.
  • Believers must be ready to suffer trials and tribulations. Acts 14:22.
  • The world loves its own but will hate those who are in Christ.
  • Daniel = Jesus is the rock.
  • The son of man will come = Daniel's dream.
  • We need to bring the world hope.
  • The identity of the anti-Christ cannot be revealed until the proper time.
  • There will be no one-world government until the U.S. is destroyed.
  • The U.S. is the world conscience.
  • The temple will be rebuilt.
  • Revelation 6: 7 seals.
  • Romans 11:17 = grafting of the branches.
  • Do not think highly of yourself, but fear God.
  • The Holy Spirit will never leave us.
  • Revelation 13: total control by the Beast - everyone will bear the mark of the beast - 666.
  • In the last days, knowledge will increase.
  • The beast and the false prophet will be thrown into the lake of fire.
    April 2nd, 2008
  • 2 Thes. 2 = after the rapture, there will be a great delusion. Do not be fooled.
  • Anti-Christ = he will position himself as god and will deny all other gods. He will come to do the work of Satan by performing great signs and miracles.
  • Those left after the rapture will choose to believe the lie and not the truth.
  • Sin separates us from God. Until we repent and eschew sin, we cannot be with Christ.
  • Anti-Christ = against Christ, God's anointed one.
  • 1 John 2:18-22 = the spirit of anti-Christ has been here.
  • First prophetic reference is given by God Himself.
  • The anti-Christ is Satan in bodily form.
  • The world hates the U.S., because it was built upon Godly principles--upon scripture.
  • The spirit of anti-Christ has possessed many leaders throughout the history of the world.
  • The one-world government cannot come into power until the U.S. is destroyed.
  • Revelation 13 / Daniel 7:8 and 8:9
  • He will be history's vilest leader.
  • The Son of Perdition - The Wicked One - The Lawless One.
  • He will oppress the Ten Commandments.
  • We do not fear man - we fear God.
  • The anti-Christ wants the world to fear man.
  • The anti-Christ will oppose God's word.
  • The last ruler of the Roman Empire will the anti-Christ be.
  • He will appear as a proponent of peace--tolerant of all religions.
  • He will blaspheme God and demand worship of the whole world under threat of death.
  • Without the mark of the beast, one cannot buy or sell.
    April 9, 2008
    Armageddon = the final war. All the armies will be destroyed, and all the birds will be called to have a feast. blood will run 6' deep on the land.
  • Judgment against those who do not believe in Jesus.
  • Rev. 19 and 20
  • Millennium - not in the Bible. 1000-year period during which Jesus reigns as ruler. Satan will be bound in the abyss.
  • 1000-year reign.
  • Time is still going on for those left behind on the planet.
  • Christians will be in their resurrected bodies without time.
  • Eternal state of new heaven and new earth--no seas and no oceans on the new earth, except for the River of Life.
  • Following 1000-year reign.
    April 16, 2008
  • Acts 4: Peter and John told not to preach in the name of Jesus. 4:29 - give your servant great boldness.
  • Pray for boldness. Stay strong in Jesus.
  • Deut. 32:8-10
  • Millennium - 1000-year reign of Jesus Christ on this earth.
  • Israel will be the minister to the whole world through the Millennium.
  • Rev. 20:7
  • When 1000 years ends, Satan will be let out of his prison.
  • Daniel 7:13 - Jesus will have dominion over all nations.
  • Everlasting dominion that will never end.
  • The church will rule and reign with Jesus Christ.
  • We will have glorified bodies and have access to heaven and earth.
  • Wedding Feast of the Lamb - the believers are the bride, and Jesus is the groom.
  • We must be prepared.
  • We must be ready.
  • At any moment, Jesus may return.
  • Universal justice and righteousness will reign.
  • There will be peace among all nations.
  • Great material prosperity.
  • The earth will be freed from the Curse.
  • Animals will not be fierce any more.
    April 23, 2008
  • Acts 9:31 - Paul has been converted - the disciples have feared the creation and not the creator.
  • The believers were walking in fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit.
  • The Judgment - Hebrews 9:27 - all men will stand before the Judgment.
  • Psalm 89:14 - righteousness and justice are the foundation of the throne.
  • Romans 2:15-16 - their conscience bears witness to the world.
  • Romans 3:10-23 - all men have fallen short of the glory of God.
  • Judgments:
  • At the cross - now is the judgment of this world - "I will draw all men unto me" - Jesus. The cross is the judgment of all sins and all sinners--including Satan.
  • Only Jesus was resurrected from the dead.
  • 1 John 1:9 - confess your sins, and they will be forgiven.
  • 1 Corinthians 11:31-32 - Paul - if we judge ourselves, we will not be judged.
  • 1 Corinthians - not a judgment of condemnation but a reward determination.
  • God will give to everyone whenever praise is due.
  • 1 Corinthians 3:13-15 - testify to see what kind of work a believer has done.
  • 2 Corinthians 5:10 - we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.
  • We are saved by faith. We are rewarded for works.
  • Rewards
  • 1. Crown of Rejoicing - 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20 - the soul-winner's crown.
  • 2. Crown of Righteousness - kept the faith and finished the race.
  • 3. Crown of Life - the man who perseveres under trial.
  • 4. Crown of Glory - pastors and elders - shall not fade - Peter 5:4.
    April 30th, 2008
  • Daniel 12:1-2 - in preparation for the kingdom.
  • Those whose names are in the Book of Life will be rescued.
  • We need to be prepared. We need to be ready always.
  • Tribulation - purge the remnant - Daniel 9:24-27.
  • Judgment of the Wicked Dead - after 1000-year reign of Christ.
  • The Second Death - those in hell cast into the Lake of Fire.
  • Judge of the wicked dead will be Jesus.
  • The wicked dead - all those who did not take part in the first judgment.
  • Judgment of Satan and the false angels.
  • Satan will be cast into the Lake of Fire.
  • Isaiah 24:21-22 - the Lord will punish the false angels.
  • They will be tried and condemned.
  • 2 Peter 2:4 - cast fallen angels into hell until the Final Judgment.
  • Jude 1:6 - angels who did not stay within limits of authority cast into hell.
  • 1 Corinthians 6:3 - we will judge angels. We must live in order to be prepared to do so.
  • Acts 17:31 - Jesus judges.
  • Matthew 16:10 - keys to the kingdom. The gates of hell will never conquer the church.
  • Destiny - future state of the kingdom.
  • Galatians 2:20 - life in Christ. When Christ comes, life is beyond forfeiture.
  • Ezekiel 18 - when a righteous man turns away, he will be judged by his life after he turned away, and so he shall die.
  • Luke 15 - prodigal son.
  • "Lost" chapter of the Bible - Luke 15 - everything is referred to as "lost."
    May 7th, 2008
    - No class, due to the Lord's Table graduation
    May 14th, 2008
  • Jonah - minor prophet
  • Chapter 1 - get up and go to Nineveh - Jonah went in the opposite direction, to the seacoast. He was running from the Lord.
  • On the way to Carthage, the storm arose. The sailors threw Jonah into the sea. The storm stopped at once. A giant fish swallowed Jonah, and Jonah was in the fish's belly for three days.
  • Chapter 2 - Jonah cries out to the Lord from the belly of the fish. The Lord ordered to fish to spit up Jonah onto the beach, and it did.
  • The Lord still wanted Jonah to go to Nineveh.
  • God had a work to do with Jonah, and he did so while he was in the belly of the fish.
  • Jonah was alone with God and cried out to him.
  • Jonah's prayer was heard by God, and God answered the prayer.
  • Our sin is never too great to be forgiven by God.
  • We must have an ongoing relationship with God.
  • We need a consistent, daily relationship with God.
  • Chapter 3 - Jonah goes to Nineveh. He says, "40 days from now, Nineveh will be destroyed."
  • Everyone must turn from their evil ways. When God saw they had put aside their evil ways, He did not destroy them.
  • Jonah was given a second chance to obey God.
  • We are called to preach God's message.
  • Chapter 4 - Jonah is disappointed, because his prediction did not come true. He wanted to die. Mankind is not our enemy--Satan is our enemy.
  • We must bow down to Jesus.
    May 21st, 2008
    JESUS IS COMING
  • Jesus said - when you see these things happening, rejoice! I am coming!
  • Deut. 32:48 - the Lord sent Moses to Moab. He told Moses that he will not enter the Promised Land, because he failed to follow the edicts of God.
  • Pray for those who would oppress us.
  • Bless them, and lift them up, for once we were enemies of Jesus, just as they are now.
  • Eph. 6:10 - put on all of God's armor. We are not fighting against flesh and blood but against spirits in the dark realms.
  • Use every piece of God's armor to resist evil. Take a stand!
  • Hebrews 4:12 - for the Word of God is sharper even than a two-edged sword. Nothing in all creation can hide from God.
  • 2 Corinth. 5:17 - therefore, if anyone be in Christ, he is a new creation. He has give us the ministry of reconciliation.
  • 1 Corinth. 4 -
    May 28th, 2008
    2 Timothy 3 - Pastoral Epistles - in the Last Days, there will be difficult times.
  • There will be cruelty, no self-control, pleasure over God, etc. Stay away from people like this!
  • Someday, everyone will recognize what fools they are.
  • We must be accountable. They will betray their own friends. The Last Days are dangerous times.
  • 2 Timothy 3 - the truth of the Scriptures.
  • We must purees truth. We must purees faith.
  • If we strive to lead Godly lives, we will be persecuted by the world - we will be rejected.
  • Do not fear the creation--fear the creator.
  • Evil people and impostors will flourish.
  • We must remain faithful to the things we have been taught.
  • All Scripture is from God. Scripture is God's way of preparing us for all things to come.
  • Scripture teaches us what is truth and what is right and how to live our lives.
    June 4th, 2008
    1 Peter 1:13 - a call to holy living
  • A special blessing will come to us upon the return of Christ.
  • We must be alert, disciplined, and focused.
  • It is all about God's glory. It is not about us.
  • James 1:2-6 - We must be purified. Whenever our faith is tested, our endurance has a chance to grow.
  • We must have a clear faith--without doubt.
  • We must be able to recognize the lies.
  • Our focus must be on Christ.
  • 1 Chronicles 12:23 - Warriors gather to help David become king.
  • When we are preparing for battle, we can have no doubt. Doubt gives birth to fear.
  • Genesis 51 - Trust in God. Believe in His word. Allow God to break down all strongholds.
  • 2 Peter 1:5 - Knowing God leads to self-control.
  • Daily, we must recognize our sins by repenting of them and asking God for forgiveness.
  • Submit to the Holy Spirit.
  • Allow God to change our lives through the Holy Spirit.
  • Every day, we must seek God.
  • Sin separates us from God.
  • Our relationship with God must constantly move forward.
  • We must have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
  • 2 Timothy - All scripture is inspired by God. It is God's way of preparing us for all that we will face.
  • 2 Timothy 2:21 - Keep yourself pure.
  • Get our minds ready for action.
  • Be ready for the return of Jesus Christ.
  • Be prepared - holiness begins with proper preparation.
  • What we have in our minds is what we shall do.
  • We must prepare for holiness by feeding our minds with the Word of God.
  • We must live a life of hope.
  • Obedience.
  • Holiness.
    June 11, 2008
    Fasting and Praying
  • Matthew 6:7 - Sermon on the Mount. Do not babble on when you pray. Your Father knows your thoughts.
  • If you forgive those who sin against you, your Father will forgive you.
  • When you fast and pray, do so in private. Do not flaunt your prayers.
  • God is not the author of confusion. He is a God of order.
  • Have a special private place for prayer - Jesus.
  • Find a time to be alone with God every day.
  • Be brave and have God show us the sin in our lives. Leave the sin and walk with God.
  • We must concern ourselves with the reputation of God and his Church--not our reputations.
  • We must be concerned for the Church. We must glorify God.
  • We should spread the Good News--the Gospel.
  • We must be serious about spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
  • Pray for God's power. Pray for healing.
  • Pray for widows and orphans. Pray for the sick.
    June 18, 2008
    No Bible class - Singspiration
    June 25, 2008
    Prayer - 2 Chronicles 20
  • King Jehosephat had foolishly aligned himself with King Ahab.
  • Ahab was evil. He was married to Jezebel.
  • They go to battle together, and King Ahab is killed.
  • Jehosephat went out among the people and encouraged them to return to God.
  • He set up priests and such.
  • He wanted the people to return to God and fear God.
  • He ordered that all throughout Judea should fast.
  • He prayed to God in intercession for his people.
  • He asked God for guidance.
  • The Lord said, "Do not be afraid for the battle is not for you but is for God. Do not be afraid, for God is with you.
  • Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be saved.
  • Give thanks to the Lord.
  • 2 Chronicles 22 - the armies of Judea praised the Lord. When they reached the battleground, all the armies of the enemy were dead.
  • We need to set aside a special time and place each day and pray.
  • We need time alone with God. We must follow Jesus' example.
  • Seek God and ask forgiveness.
  • Pray for others. Pray for everyone in the Church.
  • Our goal is to be with Jesus throughout eternity.
    July 2, 2008
    Passover - fulfilling a covenant God had made with Abraham
  • Genesis 15 - the word of the Lord came unto Abraham as a vision - the first time in scripture the word of the Lord was given in a vision - FEAR NOT
  • Covenant = unto the progeny of Abraham God gave the Promised Land.
  • Verse 6: doctrine of justification by faith, not by works - first time in scripture.
  • Romans 4 - Paul speaks of justification through faith - saved by faith.
  • Psalm 32: quoted in Romans 4 - oh what joy to those whose sins have been forgiven. Confess your sins, and you shall be forgiven.
  • Genesis 15:8 = Abraham is looking for a sigh. Verse 9 = Divided the animals. Did not divide the birds. Sacrificed to God.
  • Jeremiah 34 = entering into the covenant. Passing through the split animal sacrifices.
  • Deut. 29 = Moses reveals the covenant made with the children of Israel.
  • Obey the terms of the covenant so that you may prosper.
  • The Lord wants to confirm that He is the God of Israel and the people of Israel are his people.
    July 9, 2008
  • John 6:1 = Jesus crossed over to the far side of the sea of Galilee. The miracle of the loves and fishes. 5000 men, plus women and children, were fed.
  • When Jesus saw that the people wanted to make Him their king, He slipped away into the hills.
  • He walks on water to meet His disciples in the boat.
  • Isaiah 54:13 = Anyone who eats my flesh and drinks my blood will remain in me and I in him. (Jesus)
  • Jesus knew from the beginning who would betray Him.
  • The people want to be with Jesus because of the miracles. They were seeking the physical and not the spiritual.
  • See the eternal life that comes from believing in Jesus.
  • We must seek Jesus - not miracles - seek the spiritual and not the physical.
    July 17, 2008
  • Hebrews 11:1 = faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen.
  • It is impossible to please God without faith.
  • No one can believe in Jesus without faith.
  • Anyone who wants to come to God must believe in Jesus through faith.
  • When Noah built the ark, no one had ever seen a boat. There had never previously been a need for a boat.
  • It was by faith that Noah built the ark.
  • Faith is believing what we cannot see.
  • When God says He will do something for us, He is faithful to do it.
  • Through the miracles He performed, Jesus tried to reveal Himself to the children of Israel.
  • 2 Peter 1 = promises that allow us to accept God's divine nature and eschew the sin and corruption of the world.
    August 6, 2008
  • Luke 17:1 - there will always be temptations to sin.
  • Forgive those who have sinned against you.
  • We must be obedient and do what God expects us to do.
  • We are servants to God and should do what we are expected to do without expecting rewards.
  • Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one turned back and praised Jesus. He glorified God.
  • That one leper was saved with spiritual healing. The other nine were only saved physically.
  • We are free and no longer must sin.
    August 13, 2008
  • John 8 - expect the unexpected.
  • Instead of doing what He was expected to do, He did the unexpected and did not punish the adulteress. He forgave her and said, "Go and sin no more."
  • What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus?
  • You cannot see Him with your eyes, but if you are a disciple of Jesus, He is with you all day.
  • Jesus always did the unexpected.
  • Whatever Jesus did, He upset people.
  • When Jesus said something, it was costly.
  • When Jesus did something, people were changed.
  • Luke 4:28-30 - if we are not doing things that make people angry, we are probably not following Jesus as disciples.
  • Luke 14:25-26 - Jesus left changed lives wherever He went.
  • Trust Jesus. Always follow Jesus.
  • Luke 7:11-15 - Jesus spent a lot of time doing nothing, which was actually something. He knew that intimacy with God was more important than action.
  • Jesus failed--at least it looked that way.
  • We now know that Jesus never failed.
  • Be a disciple of Jesus, and you will live a life that is full. Be faithful.
  • Luke 23:44-46 - Always expect the unexpected.
  • What did Jesus do when he heard that John the Baptist had been beheaded? He took off in a boat for some time by Himself.
  • What did Jesus say when the Canaanite woman asked for help. "I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel," He said.
  • Why did Jesus curse the fig tree and cause it to wither? He was hungry, and it had no fruit.
  • On the night of Jesus' death, what did he ask God to do? Come up with another way to provide salvation.
    August 20, 2008
    I am a child of God
  • Romans 8:16 - you have not received a spirit of bondage but a spirit of adoption.
  • God showed how much He values us by the death of His son on the cross.
  • Jesus endured death on the cross for the joy of saving us.
  • Paul was writing to people he did not know and trying to relate the power and spirit of God to them.
  • God is only the father of people who have been acquitted.
  • Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved.
  • We must continually renew our lives as children of God. There is no "once saved, always saved" issue.
  • Evidence is used to prove or disprove. Bearing witness is giving proof of an event or a fact.
  • By the words of two or more witnesses, a fact may be established.
  • Two or more witnesses must give testimony to prove guilt, and they must agree. Only one witness is insufficient, and if the two witnesses do not agree, no truth is given. No valid witness.
  • Jesus' witnesses = God, scripture, and his works - three witnesses.
  • God's witness/testimony = spirit, blood, and water.
    August 27, 2008
  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 - Paul is telling them to capture every rebellious thought.
  • In Corinth, Greek philosophy was popular, and Paul was addressing this and telling them that this was false doctrine.
  • He describes this activity as warfare.
  • Romans 12:1-2 - give your body to God as a living sacrifice, pure and holy.
  • Changing the way we think - a complete change - transformed - so that we can perceive God's word correctly.
  • Fear the Lord - do not fear the people.
  • Isaiah 8:11 - do not walk in the way of others. Fear nothing but the Lord.
  • Isaiah 55:8 - His thoughts and His ways are not our thoughts and our ways.
  • We must take our rebellious thoughts captive, for today's thoughts are tomorrow's actions.
  • 2 Corinthians 10 - we are the soldiers, and thoughts are the enemy. Our mind is a battlefield.
    September 3, 2008
  • Genesis 32: what is your name? Jacob.
  • What is our identity supposed to be? Christ.
  • He wrestles with God - a pre-incarnate Christ - a theophany.
  • John 1:1 - in the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word was God.
  • 12 - but as many as received Him - to take to oneself.
    September 10, 1008
  • 2 Samuel 9 = adoption.
  • Adoption - we are children of God if we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
  • David said, "Is there any left in the house of Saul?" A servant.
  • Zeba said Jonathan has a son, lame on his feet. King David said he could eat always at his table. Cripples had no value to society at that time. King David said everything would be restored to him. David restored to him all that land that had been taken from him.
  • M. had no self-esteem. He referred to himself as a "dead dog."
  • We receive the spirit of adoption when we accept Jesus Christ. God saves us out of grace. He does so because it pleases Him.
  • Fear not, for He will restore all to us for Jesus' sake.
  • Predestination - decreed from eternity that whoever believes in Jesus Christ shall have everlasting life.
  • Romans 9 - children of Israel are not all saved - predestination.
  • Hell was not created for Christians.
  • Creation itself speaks the very existence of God.
  • David's son, Absalom, tried to take over the throne. He built a rebellion against King David and declared himself king.
  • 2 Samuel 19 - Absalom dies, and the kingdom is restored to David.
  • M. meets David and says Zeba deceived him.
  • David offers to split Saul's kingdom between M. and Zeba, but M. says to give it all to Zeba, since he is happy just to be in the presence of King David.
    September 17, 2008
  • John 3 - born again.
  • Amen = the best-known word in human speech.
  • Verily = of the truth, amen.
  • Unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
  • That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the spirit is spirit.
  • Numbers 21:4 - why have you brought us out of Egypt to die in the wilderness - the people ask this of Noah.
  • God sent poisonous snakes. Noah was told by God to make a fiery brass serpent and place it on a pole. Everyone who looked at the serpent and are bitten did not die.
  • Jesus uses the serpent as an example of Himself.
  • John 3:14 - the son of man must be lifted up. Whosoever believes in Him shall have everlasting life.
  • Born again = regeneration.
  • God sent His son into the world not to condemn man but to save man.
    September 24, 2008
    Video: "Rain" by Rob Bell
  • Rain will come into our lives. The parable of the man who built his house on the sand and the man who built his house on the rocks.
  • The essence of salvation is calling out to God.
  • Romans 9 - God's sovereignty and what it means to be predestined to be a child of God.
    October 1, 2008
    Exodus 40:34 - Moses was no longer able to enter the tabernacle. When the presence of the Lord came down, Moses was unable to enter the tabernacle because of the law.
  • So long as the cloud was over the tabernacle, the Israelites did not move.
  • God will always steer us in the direction He wants us to go. When we know that things live up to God's word, we are following by faith.
  • Leviticus 9:18-24 - the bull and the ram were sacrificed.
  • After the peace offering, Aaron came from the tabernacle and blessed the people, and the presence of the Lord blazed forth.
  • If we learn to please God and offer our lives as living sacrifices to God, we will be passionate, and our sacrifices will please God, and He will appear to us.
  • We fall on our faces and worship God.
  • Exodus 33 - Moses has brought the Israelites out of Egypt, and the Lord speaks of the Promised Land.
  • From the time they left Mt. Sinai, the Israelites wore no more jewelry, since God had told them to take it all off.
  • The Israelites saw the power of God, and they saw Moses as a man of God.
  • Moses spoke face-to-face with God. God said Moses was his friend.
  • God says no one may look directly at his face. He let Moses see him from behind.
  • Moses cannot look at God's face.
  • God told Moses the Israelites must remove their jewelry, because they must move away from being like the Egyptians.
  • The Israelites must learn to associate themselves only with God.
  • Because of Jesus, we do not need to be under the law and do not need to make animal sacrifices.
  • God began to prepare Joshua to be the next king of Israel.
  • God wants us to find Him for ourselves.
    October 8, 2008
    2 Corinthians 5:17 - old things are passed away. We are new creatures in Christ.
  • The more we become like God, the more He wants to use us, and the more God reveals to us.
  • We are God's children, and He wants us to communicate with Him and spend time with Him.
  • Give others the chance to know what we know, because the more we change, the more others see it and want what we have.
  • If we are willing to sacrifice and spend time with God, people will be drawn to us.
  • Without faith, it is impossible to please God.
  • God could prove His words are factual by using science, since he is the father of science, but He does not, because He wants us to have faith.
  • Proverbs 18:14
  • An atom looks exactly like our solar system.
  • All transitional metals appear in the Old Testament.
  • Polonium - discovered by Madame Curie.
  • Polonium has a half-life of 3 minutes.
  • The earth was formed instantly.
  • God breathed everything into being.
  • If we accept God's word as faith, He will allow us to prove it by science.
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