TEACHINGS
Christian Growth Basics
Grounding New Believers in Bible Truths.
Click here to go to Topics
1.Angels
2.Assurance of Salvation
3.Bible Study
4.Death-Heaven and Hell
5.Fellowship-The Church
6.Praise and Worship
7.Prayer Power
8.Sanctification and Holiness
9.Second Coming of Christ
10.Spiritual Warfare and Victory
11.The Godhead
12.Witnessing and Winning Souls
What is Assurance?
A believer's absolute confidence by the Holy Spirit,that he/she is saved by
faith in God and His Word.
Am I a Christian? Some think so,some hope so,and some know so.We are either
saved or lost.God wants us to "know" that we have eternal
life(Jn.10:10-14,27-29).
1.Review of Salvation
What is salvation?
Salvation is receiving God's gift(Eph.2:8);eternal life and full forgiveness.
It's all dependent on a Person-the Lord Jesus(2 Tim.1:12).
Your need for Christ Rom.3:23,Rom.6:23.Read Rom.10:9-13.
What two things must you do?(v.9)
What will be the result?(v.10)
If you call on Christ to save you,what will happen?(v.13)
Whose work is it? Phil.1:6.
Christ died as our substitute(Heb.2:9),
paid the ransom price for our salvation(1 Cor.6:20),
became sin so that we could become righteous(2 Cor.5:21),
and shed His Blood for our redemption(Eph.1:7).
And-His power keeps us(1 Pet.1:5,Rom.8:38,39,Jn.10:27-29).
2.Result of Salvation
Now that you have believed in Christ's work on the cross and have received Him
as your Saviour,God promises you:
ETERNAL LIFE 1 Jn.5:11-13,Jn.3:16
SONSHIP Jn 1:12
FORGIVENESS OF SIN 1 Jn.1:9
3.Reasons For Assurance
Who may have this assurance?
Those who have received Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour(Jn.1:12).
Those who believe in Jesus Christ(Jn.3:16).
How can we be sure?
Word of God.(Jn.5:24,20:31,1 Jn.5:10,13,Ro.15:4).
Witness of the Spirit.
As we allow ourselves to be led by Him(Rom.8:14-16).
Walk of faith.Changed life(2 Cor.5:17,6:17-18,Jn.8:31,32).
Witness.Confessing Christ before men(Rom.10:9,10).
Faith in God's Word.The Bible tells us:God loves us.Christ alone can save.
We receive Him and His salvation by faith alone.His Blood cleanses all sin.
He will never leave us.We are not saved by our works but we are saved to
work(Eph.2:8-10,Titus 3:5).
It isn't what we have done,or do,but what Christ has done for us(Heb.7:25).
Good works we do are possible only because God has saved us.
Trust God.
Assurance is not presumption or pride-it is simple trust in God's Word.
As we grow in our Christian experience we will learn more and more to trust God
and believe His Word than to rely on our feelings(2 Cor.5:7).
Assurance is two-fold.
(1)immediate assurance of sonship to everyone who is born again.
(2)assurance of daily victory for the truly surrendered Christian.
HINDRANCES TO ASSURANCE.
Failure to trust the Word of God.
Worldliness and backsliding.(Cure:1 Jn.1:9).
Lack of the fulness of the Spirit(Jn.7:37-39).
IN MY OWN MIND I know that I am a child of God because He says so(1 Jn.5:13).
IN THE HEART OF GOD God knows that I'm His child,because He sees His Spirit at
work in me.
IN THE EYES OF THE WORLD The world knows because it sees my life.
4.Results of Assurance
Christian Love(1 Jn.3:14-19).
Joy(1 Peter 1:8,1 Jn.1:4).
A desire for holy living(1 Jn.2:3).
Peace(Isa.26:3).
A growing hunger to know about God and His Word(1 Pet.2:2).
Confidence in God(1 Jn.3:19-22,5:14-15,Eph.3:12,Heb.10:19-23).
A desire to tell others about Christ(Acts 4:20).
5.Review/Questionnaire
John 6:37 If we come to Christ,will He reject us?
Rev.3:20 If we open our hearts to Christ,what promise has He given us?
Rom.6:23 When we receive Christ,what does God give us through Him?
John 1:12,13 What happened when you received Christ by faith?
1 Jn.5:13 Is it possible for us to know that we have eternal life?
1 Jn.1:9 If we confess our sins,what two things will God do for us?
Suggestions For Further Study:
Read the Gospel of John and underline all the promises.
Read 1 John and underline all that we can "know"(occurs 27 times).
Go to Topics
Prayer Power
What is Prayer?
Talking with God-not only in difficulty & in church;but any time/anywhere.
Turning our soul to God(Ps.25:1).
Kinds of Prayer.In Private(Matt.6:6),or in Public(Matt.18:19-20;Acts 4:24,12:5).
1.Privilege of Prayer
Why Pray?
To satisfy the deep needs of our heart(Ps.42:1-2,63:1).
To gain His peace(Phil.4:6-7,1 Pet.5:7)& guidance(Matt.7:7,Jas.1:5).
To keep in touch with the Powerhouse of Heaven(Jer.33:3;Matt.17:20).
To shares our needs/concerns with God(Heb.4:16,1 Jn.5:14-15).
To receive help in our fight against sin and temptation(Matt.26:41).
How can we pray?
Naturally.Becomes a normal part of life,almost like breathing,not a ritual.
Normally.Talk as to a Friend-a 2-way conversation,& let Him talk to me
.Attitude in Prayer.
In faith(Mk.9:23,11:24,Heb.11:6),
In harmony with His Will(1 Jn.5:14).
With what two things should we enter God's presence?(Ps.100:4)
What hinders Prayer?
Unforgiveness;Bitterness(Mk.11:25-26).
Unbelief;not praying in faith(Jas.1:5-8).
Unconfessed sin in our life(Isa.59:1-3,Ps.66:18);
Pride(Ps.138:6).
Ungodly living:outside of His will(1 Jn.5:14-15).
Heart idols(Ezek.14:3).
Ungodly desires;asking for wrong/selfish reasons(Jas.4:3).
Ungodly connections with occult/false religions(Num.33:52,Deut.7:26).
2.Promise of Prayer
If my people...(2 Ch.7:14).
The Lord responds to our prayers(Ps.72:12).
His ears are open to us(1 Pet.3:12).
"...I will get to work"(Jn.14:14).Our fervent prayers can be very effective and
fruitful(Jas.5:16).
Where to Pray
Anywhere;Everywhere(1 Thess.5:17).
When to pray
Always;Constantly(Eph.6:18,Lk.18:1).
Helps to Prayer Meditation(Josh.1:8).
Fasting(Matt.6:17).
Who helps us pray according to God's will?(Ro.8:26-27,Jude 20).
3.Pattern of Prayer
Adoration
Worship(Ps.95:6).
Praise(Ps.22:26,52:9,63:3,150:6).
Confession
Confess failures/frustrations;ask for forgiveness & help.
Repent from every known sin(Ps.32:3-5;139:23).
Thanksgiving
Thank God for what He is like and for what He does.
For His mercy,your friends/home/salvation;everything;for blessings & trials(1
Thess.5:17-18;1 Tim.2:1-2).
Supplication
Ask for things;tell God our needs,desires,hopes.
Requests:for needs to be met(Matt.7:7).
In His name=relying on who He is,& what He has done;
His Authority.Jesus'Name is like a signature on a cheque from Bank of Heaven.
Model Prayer
Matt.6:9-13;only 55 words;is a Pattern/example of a way in which to pray.
Our Father-Acknowledge God;God's Family,Love.Intimacy with
God.Father=Life-giver,safety,love,authority.
God is our loving Father & Friend.In Heaven.God's Majesty and Throne.He's close
to us(Ac.17:24-28;v27).
Hallowed Name=Treat it as Holy.Praise/Worship.Name revealed in Christ.
Thy Kingdom.A concern for His Kingdom/sovereignty over our hearts.
Thy Will/purposes.Our wants vs.His Will.Submit to and do(Matt.7:21).
Daily Bread.Provisions for the day-our dependence on God's supply.
God cares for our practical welfare;our whole body,soul,and spirit.
Forgive us.We depend on God's mercy and forgiveness.
Lead us not into temptation(trials/testing)-Help us avoid wandering.
Deliver us.Pray for God's protection from danger;from being overcome by
evil/the evil one.
Deliverance for heart,mind,spirit & body(Jas.4:7).Thine is the
Kingdom.(Lk.17:21).The Government of God in our life.Thine the Power & Glory.
Open and close in Praise and Thanksgiving.
Amen.=So be it;let it be done.Expresses our confidence;God's heard us.
4.Purpose of Prayer
Godward Our Father-Communion-relationship.
Listen to the Father(Mk.11:22-26).
Inward Our Daily Bread-Request for our own every-day needs.
Outward Our Debts,as we forgive...
Intercession-pray for needs of others.
To whom?
The Father(Jn.16:23);
The Lord Jesus(Acts 7:59,1 Cor.1:2).
For whom?
For each other;loved ones(2 Cor.12:7-8).
For the sick(Jas.5:14).
For other believers(Jas.5:16),our church & its leaders(Matt.9:38).
For our rulers/government/nation(1 Tim.2:2,3),& our enemies(Mt.5:44).
For what?
Converse with God;Hear His voice.Guidance.Deal with worry.Defeat sin.Satisfy
needs.
5.Product of Prayer
Power of God(Jas.5:16).
Promise of God(Jn.14:13-14).
God can Answer our Prayer:Yes,No,Wait.
Practical Suggestions
Practical Suggestions on how to develop an effective prayer life.
The way to learn to pray,is to pray.
Learn to say "give me" a lot less,and "make me" a lot more.
Pick a special time each day when you can be alone to pray.
Begin by praising God,then confess your sins,and then tell God your needs.
Be sure to pray for others also.
Make lists of things for which to praise and thank God.
Make a second list of people and things for which to ask God's help.
Pray short,sentence prayers through the day as requests come to mind.
Go to Topics
Bible Study
What is the Bible?
God's Word(1 Thess.2:13).
What is Bible Study?
An in-depth look at the Word of God;its characters,books,& topics.
1.Supernatural Book.
Who gave the Bible?
2 Pet.1:21.God-inspired.
What makes it unique?
Its Survival;despite opposition.Ageless.Eternal(1 Pet.1:25).Oldest book.
Its Special Message;God's Plan for Man revealed;Gospel(1 Pet.1:23-25).
Its Superior Authority(Ps.19:7-11).
Superior to all other books.
Its Supernatural Origin,history,and future.
A Miraculous Book.
Its Sale;World's best-seller.
A library of 66 Books.Its Singular Unity,though written by about 40
writers,over 16 centuries.
2.Subject of the Bible.
What is its Subject?
Luke 24:44-47.The Bible has one theme.
3.Spiritual Effects of the Bible.
What is the Bible for?
2 Tim.3:15-17.Four main reasons why Bible given to us.
What is the result of Bible study?
(vv.15,17).Equips us for God's Service(Ps.19:7,8).
Acts as spiritual food(1 Pet.2:2)-helps bring
strength,health,maturity,growth,nourishment,& service.
Hunger to read and know the Bible.Develop a spiritual appetite(Job 23:12),feast
on God's Word(Jer.15:16).
What does it produce?
The outcome of knowing Scripture(2 Tim.3:15,17).
Salvation & Maturity.
Conviction of sin(Acts 2:14-37).
Faith(Rom.10:17).
New Birth(1 Pet.1:23)& Growth(1 Pet.2:2).
Cleansing of our Lifestyle(Jn.15:3,Ps.119:9,11).
Assurance(1 Jn.5:13).
Comfort(1 Thess.5:13).
Reviving(Ps.19:7).
Joy(Jn.15:11).
Arms us(Eph.6:17)& Builds us up(Acts 20:32).
Symbols of Bible
Seed-living,regenerating(1 Pet.1:23).
Sword-convicts(Heb.4:12;Eph.6:17).
Anchor-(Heb.6:18,19).
Nail-we can safely hang onto it(Ecc.12:11).
Pearl-like a precious gem(Matt.7:6).
Gold-of priceless value(Ps.19:7-10).
Honey-sweet to the taste(Ps.19:10).
Lamp-guides us(Ps.119:105).
Hammer-smashes and demolishes evil(Jer.23:29).
Fire-burns & consumes the dross(Jer.23:29).
Benefits of Bible Study
Jn.8:31-32,Ps.119:98-104,2 Pet.1:2-4,Ps.1:1,2,Josh.1:8,Jn.20:31,1 Jn.2:14.
4.Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit.
Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and His leading.
Seek the Holy Spirit's guidance(1 Cor.2:13).
Openness-allow God to speak to you;right attitude;Meekness(Jas.1:21).
5.Study Methods
How?
Compare Scripture with Scripture.
Be aware of the culture and the time in which it is written.
Read it daily(Acts 17:11),thoroughly,lovingly,prayerfully,and carefully.
Use notebook;make notes of thoughts/findings.
Carry pocket testament to read in spare moments.
Mark and underline Bible verses that speak to you..
Three Approaches.
(1)Book study.Carefully read and reflect on one book of the Bible.Gain an
overall understanding of the book.
(2)Theme study.Trace a topic thru the Bible.Use concordance/ref.Bible.
(3)Character Study.Study the life of an individual in the Bible.Learn from
their character/God's call/experiences/mistakes.
Meditation(Ps.1:2).
Memorisation(Ps.119:16).
6.Study Aids.
Helpful Tools Bibles.
Different translations,Bible with cross-reference system.
Concordance(Young's or Strong's).
Bible Dictionary(eg.Unger's)and Bible Handbook(eg.Halley's).
Commentary(eg.Matthew Henry's).
Dakes anonated bible,with study notes.
Other Suggestions
Some practical helps in private Bible study.
Use a translation you can understand.Set aside a special time daily to read the
Bible.Use Bible study aids.
You can read through the Bible in a year by reading 15 minutes a day.
Go to Topics
Spiritual Warfare And Victory
1.Power of Satan
Origin & fall of Satan as the leading fallen angel(2 Pet.2:4).
He was full of wisdom and beauty(Ezek.28:12-15);
he was once in the truth(Jn.8:44).
He was lifted up in pride over his God-given wisdom,anointing and beauty and
rebelled against God(Ezek.28:17,Isa.14:12-15,1 Tim.3:6).
His kingdom The whole world is in his power(1 Jn.5:19);he is its ruler(2
Cor.4:4,Eph.6:12).
His kingdom is one of darkness,sin,sickness,deception,sorrow and
death(Col.1:13).
His subjects are fallen angels and unsaved men.
His activity He is a real,living,active enemy,with power to imprison,and
spiritually(2 Cor.2:11)blind(Acts 26:18).
His power should not be under-estimated;His activity is ceaseless(Rev.12:10);it
includes:
Temptation(1 Jn.5:18).
Sin;the originator of rebellion against God's authority(1 Jn.3:8).
Affliction(Lk.13:16,2 Cor.12:7).
Accusation against the saints(Rev.12:10).
Deception(1 Tim.5:15,2 Cor.11:14,2 Thess.2:9,10).
Opposition to God's work-eg.,hinders the preaching of Gospel(Mark 4:15).
Death(Heb.2:14).
2.Personality of Satan
Characteristics of satan;as well as being a real person,he is evil personified:
Wicked(Matt.6:13,Jn.17:15,1 Jn.2:13-14).
Deceitful(Gen.3:1,2 Cor.11:3-4,Eph.6:11).
Proud(Matt.4:5-6).
Fierce & cruel(Lk.8:29,1 Pet.5:8).
Powerful(Eph.2:2).
3.Position of Satan
Names
The names attributed to him reveal his nature and function;they include:
satan-he is adversary/hater/opponent/enemy of men & God(Lk.22:31).
devil-accuser/whisperer/slanderer(Eph.4:27,Jas.4:7).
the wicked one-hurtful,evil one(1 Jn.2:13,14).
prince of the power of the air(Eph.2:2).
prince of the devils(Matt.9:34).god of this world(2 Cor.4:4).
tempter(Matt.4:3).
the dragon-ie,he is beastly and vicious in nature(Rev.12:3-4).
Devil's limitations.
So far as Christ is concerned,the devil is a conquered enemy(Lk.10:18).
Christ's people enter into His victory over the devil(Rom.16:20).
Satan's power has been given to him,and can therefore be taken away from him,by
God(Lk.4:6).
He knows his time is short(Rev.12:12).
He is allowed liberty,within bounds,to test and tempt Christians(Job
1:1-12,2:1-6,Lk.22:31,2 Cor.10:13,Rev.20:2,7),his activity can be used by God
to accomplish some good purpose(1 Cor.5:5,2 Cor.12:7).
He is not Omnipotent(all powerful);Job 2:6-God limits his power.
He is not Omniscient(all knowing);1 Pet.5:8-he is not as wise as God.
He is not Omnipresent(everywhere present);is only in one place(Mt.4:11).
Effect of the Cross Christ defeated satan at the cross;disarming him & all his
powers(Col.2:15,1 Jn.3:8).
The victory of the cross can be a constant reality in our lives.
4.Prospect of Satan
What is his destiny? Satan's future is:
Condemnation and punishment at judgment day(Jude 6,Rev.20:10).
He is to be crushed by God(Rom.16:20).
Eternal fire is prepared for the devil and his angels at the final
judgment(Matt.25:41).
5.Protection From Satan
Satan's attacks He does battle against every believer(Lk.22:31,1
Pet.5:8-9,Rev.12:17).
He is always looking for an opportunity of causing trouble to the
Christian(Eph.6:11,1 Tim.3:7,Jas.4:7,Rev.12:10).He seeks to tempt
believer's(Matt.4:1-10,Mark 1:13,Lk.4:2,1 Cor.7:5).
Our warfare is three-fold:against the World,the Flesh,and the devil.
Our Position in Christ We have authority in Christ.
We are in Christ(Eph.1:3-7;2 Pet.1:4).
We are new creatures(2 Cor.5:17,Gal.6:15).
We are in the kingdom of light(Col.1:13-14,Rom.8:38,Acts 26:18).
We are seated in heavenly places with Christ(Eph.1:3,2:2-8,6:12).
Believer's reponsibility
Live victorious over sins of the flesh-giving satan no grounds to stand
on(Jn.16:31,Rom.6:7-8,Eph.4:27).
Keep in the love of God(1 Jn.4:17-18,5:18).
Submit to God,then resist the devil(Jas.4:7,2 Cor.2:11).
Accept God's way of escape(1 Cor.10:13).
Believer's weaponry If we use God's equipment,we can't be defeated(Eph.6:13;2
Cor.10:3-5).
Four Vital Weapons:
The Name of Jesus(Phil.2:9-11,Jn.14:13-14).
The Blood of Jesus(Heb.9:22,1 Jn.1:7).
The Word of God(Heb.4:12).
The Spirit's language(Rom.8:26,1 Cor.14:2,4).
Believer's victory Greater is he that is in you;the Holy Spirit indwells us(1
Jn.2:14,4:17).
We are overcomers by:
Not being ignorant of his devices(2 Cor.2:11).
The Word of God(Jn.8:32-34).
Depending on Christ's protection(Lk.22:31).
The Name of Jesus-He stands behind His Name-there is no higher
authority(Matt.10:1,8,Lk.9:1,Mk.3:15,6:7,13,16:17,Acts
16:18,Phil.2:9-11,Jn.16:23-24,14:13-15,Lk.10:17-20).
The Blood of the Lamb and Christian testimony(Rev.12:11).
The power of the Holy Spirit(Acts 1:5,8,Lk.24:49).
The gifts of the Spirit(1 Cor.12:9-11,1 n.4:1-3,Isa.8:19-20).
The whole armour of God(Eph.6:10-18).
Go to Topics
Second Coming of Christ
Comforting truth.
Maranatha-"The Lord cometh";greeting used by early Church(1 Co.16:22).
An expression of faith,hope,love and joy.
Crucial subject.
Over 800 Bible Passages deal with it;one out of every 25 verses.
Clearly taught.
Bible says so.Heb.9:28,Rev.1:7,Titus 2:13.Christ says
so.Jn.14:3,Matt.24:27,Rev.22:7.
1.Signs of His Coming.
Prophecy today.
Prophesied events foreshadow Second Coming:
1.Israel.Return of Jews(Ez.36:1-8,Isa.11:11-16);Rebirth of
nation(Ps.102:16,Lk.21:29-30);Russia's hatred(Ez.38,39).
2.Europe.Ten nation confederation(Dan.2,7;Rev.13,17)
3.Asia.Massive Eastern Army(Rev.9:16,16:12).
4.Famines.(Mk.13:8,Rev.6:6).
5.Missions.(Mt.24:14).
6.Earthquakes.(Lk.21:11).
7.Apostasy.(2 Pet.2:1).
8.World in fear.(Lk.21:25-26).
9.Hi-tech world.(Dan.12:4);travel,education;rapid technology advance.
10.Immorality.(2 Tim.3:1-4;Matt.24:37-39).
2.Stages of His Coming.
The Second Coming is generally accepted to be in two stages or phases:
1.The Rapture and Resurrection(1 Thess.4:16-17,Rev.3:10)
2.The Return,ends the Great Tribulation(Rev.16:14,16;19:19).
3.Our Response.
An incentive & challenge:
Watch,Work,Witness(1 Tim.6:14).
Be ready(Mt.24:44);watch,wait & look for Him(1 Cor.1:7,1 Th.1:10).
Steadfastness.Be faithful & busy for the Lord(1 Cor.15:58,Heb.10:25).
Service.Abide in Him(1 Jn.2:28).
Separated Living(1 Jn.3:2-3,2 P.3:11,Titus 2:12,13).
Soulwinning(1 Pet.3:15).
Source of joy;brings us comfort,encouragement,and hope(1 Th.4:18).
4.Sequence of Events of His Coming.
Rapture.
The Blessed Hope.
Christ descends and the Church is caught up;He comes for the saints-meets them
in the air;and they go to Heaven(Titus 2:13,1 Cor.15:50-53,1
Thess.4:15-18,Jas.5:7-9).
Timing:
(1)Before the Tribulation(1 Thess.5:9,Rev.3:10,Rom.5:9,and Rev.16:1-10).
The Judgment Seat of Christ.
For the Church-rewards or losses(2 Cor.5:10),for faithful service;Crowns
awarded:
1.Self-control(1 Co.9:25-27).
2.Suffering(Rev.2:10;Jas.1:2-3).
3.Service(1 Pet.5:2-4;2 T.4:1-2).
4.Sacrifice(2 Tim.4:8).
5.Soulwinning(1 Th.2:19-20;Dan.12:3).
Take heed:How,What,Where you build(1 Cor.3:10-15).
AntiChrist and World Government.
A great world dictator and political superman appears(Rev.13:18);
"The Beast";
he is an evil genius who becomes the charismatic military leader of a New World
Empire.
He first appears as a great peacemaker,and later gains control over
Europe(Dan.7:25,7:8);
He makes a seven-year peace pact with Israel,and later breaks it(Dan.9:27).
Is not revealed till the Restrainer is removed from the earth;ie.,the Holy
Spirit infilled Church(2 Th.2:7-8).
The Tribulation(7 Year Period).
(Church not mentioned from Rev.6 to 18).Salvation is possible in the
Trib.(Rev.7:9-17).
The Temple is rebuilt;there is a godly remnant in Israel,and witnessing by
144,000 Jewish evangelists-leads to national repentance(Zech.12:10-13:1);God
pours out His Spirit and many believe the Gospel.
The world is hit by such things as
war,famine,death,persecution,destruction,cosmic signs,earthquakes,and plagues.
The Beast enters the Holy Land,takes over the Temple,and claims to be God.In
the second 3.5 years,he takes over the whole world;they are forced to worship
him and receive his mark,or be slain.
The World Church is destroyed.The believing remnant of Israel flees to the
desert.
The Wrath of God is then poured out on the earth;severe sores,rivers of
blood,scorching heat,darkness and severe pain,and an ultimate earthquake and
huge hailstones.
The Marriage Supper of the Lamb.
Christ and Church;in Heaven(Rev.19:7-9).
Armageddon Campaign.
Christ fights the Beast & kings of the earth(Rev.16:13-16,Dan.11:40-12:1,Joel
3:9-16).
The Glorious Appearing of Christ.
The Revelation of Himself to the World(Mt.24:29-30).
He comes to earth-the Mount of Olives(Zech.14:1-7;Rev.1:7,19:11-21,1
Thess.1:7-10);
with the saints(Col.3:4);
and every eye shall see Him.
The Tribulation saints will be resurrected(Rev.20:4).
Christ's 1000 Year Kingdom,& the Binding of satan.
The AntiChrist & False Prophet are sent to the Lake of Fire(Rev.19:20).
The nations are judged(Joel 3:2,Matt.19:28,25:31ff).
Satan is imprisoned,and Christ reigns on the earth for 1000
years(Rev.20:1-3;Ez.40-44,Dan.7:13-14,Zech.14:16-21,Isa.11:1-9).
Final Rebellion.
Satan is loosed for his last stand against God,and defeat.
He leads one final revolt against Christ and is defeated(Rev.20:7-10).
Destruction of the earth by fire.(2 Pet.3:10-12).
Great White Throne Judgment.
Unsaved dead are resurrected,judged(Rev.20:11-15;Jn.5:29),& sent to Lake of
Fire.
New Heavens and New Earth(Rev.21-22;2 Pet.3:13,Isa.65:17).
We shall reign "forever and ever"(Rev 22:5).
Go to Topics
Witnessing and Winning Souls
What is Witnessing?
It means "Introducing others to Jesus Christ".God reaching out through
believers to win others to accept Christ as Saviour.
Witness is the Greek word:Martur;from which we get "martyr"."Doing witnessing"
"Becoming a witness";should be a natural,normal way of life;living out the
Lordship of Christ;make evangelism your lifestyle.
1.Motiviation.
Why witness?
Commission of Christ.
God commands it(Matt.28:18-20;2 Pet.3:9).
Compassion for the Lost.
The worth of a soul(Mk.8:35-38).
Condition of the Lost.
The fact of Hell(John 3:36).
Eyes for the Harvest.
Coming of Christ.
Rewards to be given for faithful witnesses(2 Tim.4:8).
Responsibility.
What if we fail to warn sinners?(Ezek.3:18).
Be ready for any opportunities(1 Pet.3:15-16).
Joy.It is a blessing to witness(Ps.126:5,6;Lk.15:7-10).
2.Means(You and Me).
Who can witness?
Every Christian is called to be a witness for Christ;a potential soul-winner.
What should a wise Christian seek to do?(Prov.11:30).
Our dependence:
We must absolutely depend on the Holy Spirit(Lk.24:48-49):
It is He Who does the work:
He convicts(Jn.16:8-11),reveals Truth(16:13),regenerates(Jn.3:5-8,Titus
3:5-7),and helps believers in the Christian walk(Gal.5:16).
The Spirit helps in our inability(Rom.8:26);tells us what to say(Lk.12:12).
Needs of a Soul-winner
A Life surrendered to Christ:
A Spirit-filled life(Eph.5:18).
Bible knowledge.
A Prayer life;believing prayer.
Faith,and Concern for lost souls.
Pointers.
Deal with your own age and gender if possible.
Be gentle,wise,clear,polite,uncompromising.
Don't argue.
Seek and pray for opportunities,and use them.
Rely on the Lord;keep silently praying for His guidance.
Work with love and perseverance.
Lead directly to a definite acceptance of Christ.
3.Method.
How can we witness?
Different ways:
Evangelism:Literature,Crusade,Radio,Open air,Music,Door-to-door,Special
meetings,Stickers,Tracts,Friendship,Personal.
"By all means save some"(1 Cor.9:22).The Power to Witness(Acts 1:8).
Depend on the Holy Spirit.
Make up a "Most Wanted" Prayer List;friends,people you know.
Friendship Evangelism.
Be a living witness(Matt.5:16,1 Pet.2:12)of God's power to change lives.
Watch:habits,dress;show love,kindness;Be a hard,conscientious worker.
People notice:
What we are.
What we do.
What we say.
Christ's example.
John 4:7-30.
Contact.
Communication.
Relating.
Being relevant.
Challenge.
Accept the claims of Christ.
4.Message.
What is it?
Presenting Christ as the Answer to:
Man's Sin.Death,Eternal Life.
Man's Security needs.Anxiety,Trouble,Finding Peace with God.
Man's Search for Truth.Purpose for living,Reality,Meaning.
Personal Testimony:
Jn.9:25 Your own personal experience.Write it out to help you know it,& develop
it,to communicate it effectively It can be about 3-5 minutes long,and should
include(Eg.:Acts 26 Format:)
(1)Attitudes and actions before I became a Christian.
(2)How I came to know Christ.Circumstances surrounding my conversion;
(3)Life after Christ.The Changes He has made-in my actions and attitudes.
Proclaiming the Gospel:
Explaining the Gospel.Various ways to do it;Eg:
1.ABC Outline.
A.ADMIT that you are wrong;tell God you are sorry for your sins and want to go
His way(Isa.55:7,Rom.3:23,6:23).
B.BELIEVE that Christ died on the Cross for your sin,and rose again(John
3:16,Acts 16:31,Isa.53:4-6,Lk.19:10,1 Pet.2:24).
C.COMMIT your life to Him.Put your Faith and Trust in
Christ.(Matt.7:21,Jn.1:12,3:5,Rom.10:9,10,Eph.2:8,9).Take action:Rev.3:20.
2.Romans 6:23.SATAN GOD SIN GIFT WAGES ETERNAL LIFE DEATH JESUS CHRIST LOST
SAVED.
3."The Roman Road".
Rom.3:23.Man's Need.
Rom.6:23.Sin's Penalty.
Rom.5:8.God's Provision.
Rom.10:9,10.Man's Response.
4.Four things God wants you to know:
1.Your need as God sees it(Isa.64:6,Jer.17:9,Jer.3:3,Rom.3:10,11,23).
2.Your own Helplessness(Prov.14:12,Jn.14:6,Acts 4:12,Jas.2:10).
3.God's Provision for your Need(Isa.53:6,Jn.3:16,2 Co.5:21,1 Pet.3:18).
4.God's Promise to meet your Need(Jn.10:28,Heb.7:25,Jude 24).
5.Bridge Diagram,or Wordless Book.
Go to Topics
Praise and Worship
What is Praise?
o bless,magnify,honour,glorify,admire;in rejoicing and thanksgiving.
It is(Yadah)stretching out our hands in reverence;opening our hands;let go of
everything and give self to God.
It is demonstrated or declared(Ps.66:8)-an active,overflowing act of faith.Over
800 refs to it;in 65 books of Bible.
What is Worship?
To bow in reverence;adore,in awe,and intimacy,in expression of our love and
deep devotion.
It is ministry to God,from a loving heart,as we contemplate on God Himself.
Praise and worship can be used interchangeably(Ps.99:1-5).Generally,praise
precedes worship(Ps.95:1-7).
1.Why We Can Praise The Lord.
Our Father seeks-desires or longs-for us to worship Him in Spirit & in
truth;genuinely and sincerely(Jn.4:23).
It is His will(1 Thess.5:16-18;Mt 4:10).
We have absolute access into His very presence(Heb 10:19-22)-the right,by the
Blood of Jesus to boldly walk into His presence and talk to and with Him.
Reasons why we praise.
God's majesty(Isa.24:14),
glory(Ps.138:5),
excellency(Ps.145:3),
greatness(Ps.145:3),
holiness(Ex.15:11),
wisdom(Dan.2:20),
power(Ps.21:13),
goodness(Ps.107:8,15,21,31),
mercy(2 Ch.20:21),
loving-kindness and truth(Ps.138:2),
faithfulness(Isa.25:1),
wonderful works(Ps.150:2);
His blessings,pardon,protection,answered prayer,etc.,and His provision of
salvation(Lk.1:68,69).
Praise focuses our attention on God's works,character and power,in contrast to
our human weakness and powerlessness.
When we feel spiritually flat,we can take our eyes off self,lift our hands and
voice and praise God.
Praise pleases God(Ps.149).Praise brings
healing(Ps.50:23,Ps.42:11,Prv.17:22),deliverance(Ps.18:3),and
peace(Col.3:15-16;Isa.26:3).
2.How We Can Praise The Lord.
Be personal;use the first person singular.
We enjoy a personal relationship with God(Jas.2:23,Jn.15:15).
Be natural;you don't have to use KJV words.Draw closer to God(Jas.4:8).
Expressions of praise With the understanding(Ps.47:7;1Cor.14:15),with the
soul(Ps.103:1),and worship with the whole heart(Ps.9:1),with our
mouth(Ps.63:3,51:15),with gladness(Ps.63:5),with
thankfulness(Ps.147:7),continually(Ps.71:6),more and more(Ps.71:14),day by
day(2 Ch.30:21).
Various Scriptural forms of praise:audible
praise(Heb.13:15,Rev.19:1);clapping(Ps.47:1),or lifting our hands in openness &
surrender to God(Ps.63:4,1 Tim.2:8);singing-300 exhortations to
sing(Ps.5:11,Ps.30:4);dancing,or leaping for
joy(Ps.149:3,150:4);laughing(Ps.46:2);bowing or
kneeling(Ps.95:6);silence(Ps.46:10);standing(Ps.134:1);singing in tongues(1
Cor.14:14,15);with musical instruments(Ps.150);with gifts and
offerings(Ps.96:8-9);with shouting(Ps.47:1,95:1);in spontaneous song(Ps.45:1;1
Cor.14:15),declaring the glory of God(1 Chron.15,16).
3.When We Can Praise The Lord.
Whatever our circumstances-not only when we feel good.
The sacrifice of praise(Heb.13:15;Jas.1:2,Phil.4:4).
Don't wait until you feel happy,but rise,by an act of faith,out of what is
dragging you down,and praise God as an act of choice;in holy
determination,say,"I will rejoice in the Lord".
When Job lost many of his possessions,and all of his children in one
day(1:13-22),his first response was to worship God(v.20).
At all times(Ps.34:1).In spite of our circumstances(Hab.3:17-18).
In sickness,in adversity,in health,and prosperity.
We should praise the Lord for anything and everything(Phil.4:6).
Paul and Silas did-in a deep and dark situation-God intervened(Acts 16:26)-and
freed them from bondage.
Praise is an attitude of heart(1 Cor.10:31)."Man's chief end is to glorify God
and to enjoy Him forever".
We are created to praise & glorify God daily(Isa.43:7;Ps.30:4;Ps.150:6).
God did not ordain praise and worship because He needed it-He commands us to
praise Him-because we need it.
Worship and praise is closely associated with God's presence.
The Lord dwells in an environment of praise(Ps.22:3),and manifests His presence.
Put on praise as a garment(Isa.61:3).
"Worship should be sincere,sacrificial,sensible,and Spirit-filled."
Worship is to be ordered,not chaos.Beautiful;in harmony with heaven(1
Cor.14:40).
Praise is warfare.It is the language of heaven-the language of faith.
Obstacles to praise:
Interference of satan(Eph.4:27),
sin(Ps.66:18,Isa.59:2),
guilt(Jn.8:11),
fear(1 Jn.4:18),
ego(Rom.12:3).
4.Results of Praise.
Changes us.(Isa.61:3,Phil.4:6,2 Cor.3:12-18-note v.17).
Brings the manifest presence of God(2 Chron.5:11-14).
Makes a way for God to come and bless us(Jonah 2:9-10;Ac.16:25).
Brings release from and victory over demonic
powers(Ps.149:6-9,106:47,Ps.92,Ps.27:6,2 Ch.20:21-22,1 Sam.16:14-23).
Pray that God will teach us to praise Him much more in the future,beginning
today(Ps.51:15).
Jesus is worthy of praise(Rev.5:9).
IT IS GOOD TO PRAISE THE LORD.Hallelujah-(let us)Praise the Lord.
Go to Topics
Angels
What are Angels?
Angels are created beings(Ps.148:2,5)-are not self-existent or procreating.
Are spirit beings(Heb.1:4),with real personalities.
Both Greek and Hebrew words mean "messenger".
1.Nature of Angels.
Not bound by natural human laws;can enter locked prisons(Ac.12:7),open prison
doors(5:19).
Strong,powerful(Ps.103:20);part of God's Host/Army.
Were created holy(Lk.9:26,2 Pet.2:4,Jude 6).
Angels are:
Innumerable(Heb.12:22).
Invisible(Col.1:16).
Immortal(Lk.20:35-36);no material bodies subject to decay.
Intelligent;wiser than men(2 Sam.14:20);have a will(Ps.103:20-21).
2.Names of Angels.
Cherubim great beauty & power(Ez.1:5-14,28:12-13,17).
Seraphim-associated with the Glory of God(Isa.6:1-7).
Living Creatures-worship God & direct his judgments(Rev.4:6-9).
Michael-Archangel and defender of Israel(Dan.12:1).
Gabriel-God's special messenger(Lk.1:19,26;Dan.9:21).
3.Work of Angels.
God's Servants(Heb.1:14).
In Heaven-honour,worship & serve the Lord(Rev.5:11-12,8:3,4).
On Earth-run errands for the Lord & "minister" to
saints(Eg.,Feed,strengthen,defend,release from prison)(Heb.8:2).
Assist,protect,and strengthen the saints(Eg.,Elijah-(1 Kings
19),Daniel(Dan.6:22),Jesus(Matt.4:11,Lk.22:43).
Are watching us(1 Cor.4:9).
God's Agents(Acts 12:23,Gen.3:24);executors of God's judgments.
God's Messengers:
Through them God sends:
announcements(Lk.1:11-20)
warnings(Matt.2:13,Heb.2:2)
instructions(Matt.28:2-6,Acts 10:3)
encouragement(Ac.27:23,Gen.28:12)
revelation(Ac.7:53,Heb.2:2).
Have the power of choice/free-will;to choose God's will,or satanic self-will.
Minister personally to individuals,maybe as "guardian angels"(Matt.18:10).
4.Limitations of Angels.
Do not preach the Gospel-this is our task.
Men will one day judge angels(1 Cor.6:3).
Angels are not due worship(Rev.22:8,9).
Are inferior to Christ,who created them;superior to man,who is weaker and
subject to death.
Positionally we are above angels,since we are "in Christ".
In the end time,believers will rule over angels with Christ.
5.Angel of Jehovah.
Special place of this angel;is a revelation of God.
The visible manifestation of God(the Lord Jesus)in the Old Testament.
Pre-incarnate appearance of our Lord Jesus.
6.Fallen Angels.
Under the leadership of satan,many angels(possibly a third)sinned and were cast
out of heaven(Jn.8:44,2 Pet.2:4,Jude 6).
They are presently partly in hell(2 Pet.2:4),and partly in the world-especially
in the air around us(Jn.12:31,14:30,2 Cor.4:4,Rev.12:4,7-9).
Go to Topics
The Godhead
Who is God?
We cannot "define" God fully by human reason,or in human terminology.
God is One,yet He is Three(1 Jn.5:7).
1.Oneness of God
Bible clearly reveals that there is One God.Deut.6:4,Isa.44:6,45:21.
2.Threeness of God
Plural terms used of God(Gen.1:26).
Manifests Himself as three persons:Father,Son,and Holy Spirit(Matt.28:19,2
Co.13:14).
The Divine Unity is a compound,or composite unity(a united,not an "absolute
one"),God is Tri-une;three-in-one.
The Father creates,the Son redeems,and the Holy Spirit sanctifies,yet each are
present.
Father,Son and Holy Spirit have common
ernal,omnipotent,omniscient,omnipresent,holiness,truth,benevolent,communion)and
Actions(creation,incarnation,redemption,salvation,prayer,glory,regeneration).
"God is Spirit"(Jn.4:24).
In Christ dwells "all the fulness of the Godhead bodily"(Col.2:9);
He is "the express image of His Person"(Heb.1:3).
He is "God with us"(Matt.1:23).
The Son is in the Father,and the Father is in the Son(Jn.14:10-12).
In the human body of Christ,He was fully God and fully man;two natures:
He was "God manifest in the flesh"(1 Tim.3:16).
God's Name revealed to man is the Lord Jesus
Christ(Zech.14:9,Jn.17:6;Matt.28:19 & Acts 2:38).
Go to Topics
Death-Heaven and Hell
1.Death.
WHAT IS DEATH?
Separation of soul & body and the introduction of man to the unseen world.
There are two classes-saved and unsaved;their destiny is determined in this
life-judgment is according to deeds done in the body-Heb.9:27,2 Cor.5:10
LIFE AFTER DEATH.
While our body sleeps(Acts 7:60),our spirit goes to God(Acts 7:59).
Before our bodies are resurrected,we are at rest(Rev.14:13),waiting(6:10-11),in
activity(7:15),and holiness(7:14).
We are in a state of immediate happiness in Christ(Lk.16:22,23:43,2 Cor.5:6,8).
Death is gain for the Christian(Phil.1:21,23).
We are immediately with Christ from the moment of death(Lk.23:43,Heb.12:23).
Death holds no fear for the Christian(2 Tim.1:10,Heb.2:14,Rom.8:38-39,1
Cor.15:55,1 Cor.3:22).
The wicked pass into an intermediate state,too,where they await their final
punishment,which takes place after the White Throne judgment,when Death and
Hades are literally emptied into the Lake of Fire.
2.Destiny of the Righteous.
NATURE OF HEAVEN.
The Righteous are destined to eternal life in the presence of God.Heaven is the
dwelling-place of the redeemed,as well as God's dwelling-place(Heb.1:10,4:14,2
Chron.6:30-35);we will be with Christ(Phil.1:23),A high place(Isa.57:15),a holy
place(Ps.20:6),a happy place(Rev.7:17).
OUR RELATIONSHIP TO IT:
(1)An heir(Matt.25:34);
(2)Our names enrolled there(Lk.10:20,Heb.12:23);
(3)Citizen of Heaven(Phil.3:20);
(4)Heaven is our true home(Heb.13:14).
DESCRIBED AS:
(1)Paradise(Rev.2:7,2 Cor.12:4);
(2)Father's House(Jn.14:2);a place prepared for us:home,rest,fellowship;
(3)A Heavenly Country to which we are travelling(Heb.11:13-16);
(4)A city;an organised society(Heb.11:10,Rev.21:2);
(5)Our inheritance(1 Pet.1:4,Matt.25:34).
BLESSINGS OF HEAVEN.
There will be no darkness,hate,sin,unrighteousness,sorrow,discord or death.
It is a place of love,light,holiness,righteousness,worship,& peace.
There is no hunger,thirst,night or darkness(Rev.7:16,22:3-5).
There will be perfect provision(Rev.22:2),government(22:3),satisfaction(22:1-2).
(1)Light and beauty(Rev.21:23,22:5).
(2)Fulness of knowledge(1 Cor.13:12).
(3)Rest(Rev.14:13,21:4).
(4)Service(Rev.7:15,22:3).
(5)Joy(Rev.21:4).
(6)Stability-eternal.(7)Social joys(Heb.12:22,23,1 Thess.4:13-18).
(8)Fellowship with Christ(Jn.14:3,2 Cor.5:8,Phil.1:23).
3.Destiny of the Wicked
Nature of Hell.Eternal separation from God;the eternal suffering of His
wrath,known as the second death.
Hell is a self-chosen and self-inflicted curse;the inevitable outcome of sin.
It is banishment from the presence of God(2 Thess.1:9).Hell was never intended
for man(Matt.25:41);but if men insist on rejecting Heaven,they must accompany
satan forever.
Both Heaven and Hell are eternal(Matt.25:46).It is the same word used of
God(Rom.16:26).
Divsions to the underworld:
(1)Sheol or Hades(the place of departed spirits);
(2)Tartarus(2 Pet.2:4)-a prison specifically for sinning angelic beings;
(3)Abyss-Deep or bottomless pit-abode of demon spirits(Rev.20:1-3,7).
[4]The final and eternal Hell is called:Lake of Fire.(Rev.20:14).
[5]Araham's Bosom,where the born-again dead were held,until Jesus's death.[Lk
16:22-26]
TORMENT OF HELL.
It is a place of continually ascending smoke(Rev.14:10-11),
of horrible torment(Rev.14:9-11,with Lk.16:19),
a valley of groans,weeping and wailing(Matt.13:42,50),
it is a fire that is never quenched(Mk.9:43-49):
(1)Extreme suffering(Rev.20:10).
(2)Memory and remorse(Lk.16:19-31).
(3)Unsatisfied desire(Lk.16:24).
(4)Contempt(Dan.12:2).
(5)Vile companionship(Rev.21:8).
(6)Hopelessness(Prov.11:7,Matt.25:41).
DEGREES OF PUNISHMENT.
The justice of God demands degrees of punishment.
Perhaps those who will suffer the hottest flames of hell are those who reject
Him the most times.(Deut.32:22,Matt.10:15,Mk.6:11,Lk.10:12).
RIGHT ATTITUDE TO HELL.
(1)God has no desire to send men there(2 Pet.3:9).
(2)Christ came to deliver men from Hell(Jn.3:16).
(3)He who is wise avoids Hell(Prov.15:24).
(4)Christians should seek to save men from the road to Hell(Jude 23).
Go to Topics
Fellowship/The Church
WHAT IS CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP?
Spiritual communion/sharing together(Heb.10:25).
Basis of our Fellowship is walking in the light(1 Jn.1:7).
Benefits of our Fellowship are mutual strengthening and encouragement.
THE CHURCH Ekklesia="called out".We are an assembly of "called out"
ones(Ac.7:38).
Church is founded by Christ on Peter's confession(Mt.16:16-18).
1.People of the Church
Consists of those "in Christ"(Phil.1:1).
Conditions of Membership:
Repentance(Ac.2:38).
Faith in the Lord Jesus as Saviour(Mt.16:16-18).
Salvation-the New Birth(Ac.2:47).
Baptism(Mt.28:19,Ac.10:47-48).
Continuance in the Apostle's Doctrine(Ac.2:42).
2.Pictures of the Church
Body(1 Cor.12:12-27).
Christ its Head;we are different parts.
An organism,rather than an organisation.
Holy Temple(1 Pet.2:5).
Stones of varied shapes and functions.
Christ dwells within.
Israelites(1 Pet.2:9,Ac.7:38).
Chosen people-under the Blood.
Bride(Eph.5:28-29,32).
Loyal to,and loving the Lord.
God's Flock(Heb.13:20,Ac.20:28).
3.Purpose of the Church
Worship and glorify God.
Evangelise the world with the Gospel(Mt.28:19-20).
Teach and instruct Christians(Eph.4:11-15,1 Th.5:11,1 Cor.12:1-31).
Witness constantly(Ac.1:8).Provide an outlet for serving God.
4.Part We Play in the Church
Various responsibilities:
Unity(Jn.17,Eph.4:2,3,Phil.2:1-2).
Holiness(Eph.5:27).
Stewardship.
Supporting meetings(Heb.10:25).
Consistent Christian living.
Accepting family discipline(Heb.13:17,1 Cor.5:12-13).
Caring for one another(1 Cor.12:7,Gal.6:10,1 P.5:2,1 Jn.3:16-17).
Maintain relationships.
How and Why We Attend Church
Physically and spiritually prepared,expecting God to feed your soul.Listen,take
notes,be reverent.
Partake in worship.Giving(1 Cor.16:2,Phil.4:14-19).
Using talents Practical-sharing what you have(Heb.13:16);caring for each other.
Praise(Heb.13:15).
Pray(Ps.141:2).
Exercise spiritual gifts(1 Cor.12:24-28).
We are instructed not to neglect fellowship(Heb.10:25).
There is power in corporate praise and prayer(Heb.13:15,Ac.2:42,47,12:5,12).
The Church is the instrument God uses to proclaim the Gospel of Christ to an
area(1 Thess.1:1,8).
It is where we are fed and built up by the Word of
God(Ac.20:28,Eph.4;12,15,16,1 Pet.2:2,5:2).
The Church will be presented gloriously to the Lord at His return(Eph.5:27).
Adittional Verses
(Eph.4:4,Jn.17:21,Ac.9:31,1 Cor.10:32,12:28,15:9,2
Cor.6:14-18,Eph.1:22,23,2:19,Mk.16:15,Ac.2:42,2 Tim.2:19,20,Jn.2:19.).
Go to Topics
Sanctification and Holiness
1.Meaning.
Sanctification is the process to Holiness.
It means separation.
It is the "setting apart" of a believer by the power of God's Spirit,from all
evil use,to be wholly used for God's service and glory,lived out in a holy life
in the world.
It is the fulness of the new nature of Christ;who "lived in the world,but not
of the world".
Sinful attitudes and actions are put to death-the character is renewed and
obedience to God increased,so that our lives please God.
Our need for holiness springs from the fact that the Lord our God is holy(1
Pet.1:16).
We are set apart(Ps.4:3)-
(1)by God,
(2)for God,
(3)from sin,
(4)unto a holy life so God can use us as He wills(2 Tim.2:21).
TWOFOLD SEPARATION:
Separation from evil(2 Chr.29:5,15-18).
Separation unto God(Lev.27:16).
OTHER MEANINGS:
Dedication(2 Cor.7:1,6:14-18).
Purification(1 Jn.3:3,Titus 2:14,Ezek.36:25).
Consecration(Rom.12:1-2,Heb.13:13-15).
Service(Ac.27:23,1 Pet.2:5-9).
2.Motivation.
We should be motivated to be holy,as it is God's call and God's will for every
believer(1 Thess.4:3,7).
It is very important(Heb.12:14).
It is mentioned 1066 times in the Bible.
3.Means.
Our source of sanctification is:
God the Father(1 Thess.5:23-24),
Christ(Eph.5:26),
and the Holy Spirit(2 Thess.2:13).
HOW ARE WE SANCTIFIED?
By the Word of God(Jn.17:17).It purifies and cleanses.
By the Blood of Christ(Heb.13:12).
By chastisement-or discipline/correction(Heb.12:10-11).
By yielding to God(Rom.6:19).
By the Holy Spirit(1 Cor.6:11,Rom.1:4)the "Spirit of Holiness" applies the
power of the cleansing Blood as we walk in obedience to the Word(1 Pet.1:2).
By our will(2 Cor.7:1).Seek out the sin,judge it,cast it away,pray for
cleansing,and strength to live a holy life.
4.Manner.
The Timing of Sanctification:
The believer is "set apart" at conversion,and then in so far as he is yielded
to the Holy Spirit,he is "made" holy.
It happens both instantly and progressively:
DELIVERED FROM THE PENALTY OF SIN
When born again by faith(1 Cor.6:11)we receive the Holy Spirit(Ro.8:9),and are
separated from sin unto the Lord.
In God's sight,our position is of a separated one.
We are saints-sanctified ones-in Christ(1
Cor.1:2,6:11,Heb.2:11,10:10,14,Eph.1:4,Rom.1:7).
DELIVERED FROM THE POWER OF SIN
The Word of God is like a mirror to reveal sin(Jas.1:22-25).
As the Holy Spirit reveals sin,we should confess it to God and seek His
cleansing.
Our victorious life comes from full surrender-our steady growth in holiness is
the work of the Spirit(1 Cor.6:19,2 Cor.3:18,6:16-17,Eph.1:4,2:21,Col.3:12,1
Pet.2:5,9).
Believers,though sanctified in Christ,are exhorted to grow in Christ,& live the
sanctified & separated life(Heb.10:14,12:14,2 Cor.7:1).
DELIVERED FROM THE PRESENCE OF SIN
We will ultimately be completely and fully holy(1 Thess.5:23)-in every way.
This wonderful experience of being mature and perfect is to be ours when Christ
comes and our bodies shall be changed.
We shall be like Him(1 Jn.3:2).
We are still imperfect-at the time of Christ's coming we will know full and
complete sanctification.
Paul was pressing on to that future perfection,while perfecting his daily walk
with God(Phil.3:12-14).
5.Merits.
Results of our sanctification:
Perfection through Christ(Heb.10:14).
Fruit of Holiness(Rom.6:22).
6.Maintaining Holiness.
God has provided the means for sanctification.
What is our response?
Realise your need of it(1 Pet.1:14-16,1 Thess.4:7).
Know it is God's will(1 Thess.4:3).
Recognise it as being God's work in you(Phil.2:12-13).
Know your position in Christ(Rom.6:3,6,9,16).
Appropriate it by faith in the Lord Jesus(Ac.26:18,Heb.12:10-11,14).
Copy Christ and be like Him(1 Cor.11:1,Phil.2:5).
Reckon yourself dead to sin.Crucify the desires of the old nature(2 Tim.2:19).
Throw off the sinful ways of the old life(Eph.4:22).
While there is a battle with indwelling sin(Rom.7:14-25,1 Jn.1:8,2:1),sin is
not to have mastery over the Christian(Rom.6:12-13).
Practical obedience.
We are sanctified by the Blood and the Spirit unto obedience to the Word of
God(1 Pet.1:2,2 Th.2:13,Ps.119:9,Ac.5:32).
HOW TO MAINTAIN A SANCTIFIED WALK:
Actively obey the Holy Ghost,thru the Word and conscience(Gal.5:25).
Discipline yourself to set apart regular time for prayer & Bible study(Mt
26:41).
If you fail,confess it immediately to God,and He will instantly restore you.
Resist the devil and he will flee from you(Jas.4:7).
Be faithful in regular Bible reading,prayer,witnessing,and living for others in
practical obedience.
Rely on the Lord."Faithful is He that calleth you,who also will DO IT."
Sanctification guarantees us an inheritance beyond the grave(Ac.26:18).
Don't look within and be discouraged-look up and be encouraged.(1 Th.5:24)
Is there a longing in your heart for holiness?
For sanctification? For purity?
For Christlikeness?
Confess your sin-your need to Him,and He will satisfy the deepest longings of
your soul;the price is to be willing to part with sin and uncleanness.
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