Restitution - That Restitution is making amends for wrongs done against our fellowmen, restoring stolen things to their rightful owners, paying debts, giving back where one has defrauded, making confessions to the offended and apologising to those slandered, so as to have a conscience void of offence toward God and man. Genesis 20:1-8,14-18; Exodus 22:1-7; Leviticus 6:1-17; Numbers 5:6-8; 11 Samuel 12:1-6; Proverbs 6:31; Ezekiel 33:14-16; Matthew 5:23,24; Luke 19:8,9; Acts 23:1-5; 24:16; James 4:17-5:6.
God's Word teaches:
Repentance
Restitution is an act of making amends for wrongs done against our fellowmen, restoring stolen or misappropriated things, properties or persons to their rightful owners, paying back just debts, giving back where one has defrauded, making confessions to the offended and apologizing to those slandered so as to have a conscience void of offense toward God and men. This is done whether the person injured knew or not, for God knows (Hebrews 4:13).
We receive forgiveness when we confess and forsake our sins. We get cleansed by the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ (Proverbs 28:13; I John 1:9). When a sins against God, we often find that other people suffer as a result of that sin. It is also true that when a man sins against his neighbor, he sins against God in the same act, because one of God’s commandments has been broken. God willingly forgives the sins committed against Him when there is repentance and forsaking of sin. However, God requires that a man make amends to any person he has injured or wronged as a mark among other things, that repentance is genuine. We need to bear fruit that signify to all that we have become new creatures indeed (Luke 3:8-14; Romans 8:1-2; Acts 24:16; II Corinthians 5:17). Making restitutions ensures that we have right relationship with our fellowmen after we are reconciled with God.
The Bible doctrine on restitution in practice and precept spans virtually all the dispensations of God’s dealings with men till present day. The revelation of God’s will and word before the Mosaic laws demands that we make restitution (Romans 1 LI 9-20). Therefore, this teaching or doctrine of God's word, which had been, established many years before the law cannot be abolished with the law.
Restitution is part of the moral law. Most sins committed by men are against God as well as their neighbor. So repentance toward God for the children of Israel included restoration to man of all properties gained by fraud, lying or pretence of whatever kind (Exodus 21:18,19,22,26-36; 22:1-15; Leviticus 6:2-5; Numbers 5:6-8).
Rulers in Israel reflected and embraced this teaching on restitution. It is vital today that rulers, temporal and spiritual reflect this commitment to God’s moral requirement for all men (II Samuel 16:5-8 with 19:16-23; Proverbs 6:30,31; I Kings 20:34; II Kings 8:1-6). The prophets in Israel also preached, explained and emphasized the need to make restitution by every backslidden Israelite who is returning to God. Nehemiah 5: 6-13. The prophets proclaimed and prophesied much of the coming of Christ and the atoning sacrifice. They were quick to recognize the need for the blood of the Iamb to cleanse sins, yet they did not lessen God's requirement of the necessity of restitution. The ministry of preachers today is akin to that of the Old Testament prophets.
Restitution is a doctrine of Christ, confirming his word that till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one title shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Every believer must earnestly and whole-heartedly contend for and practice all that Christ taught (Matthew 18:15-17; Luke 17:3-5; Luke 19:8-1 0).
Zaccheus’ encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ is an object lesson. Zaccheus wanted nothing to stand between himself and his salvation - not even his wealth, especially that part that has been ill gotten. Though the people murmured that Jesus was going to be a sinner’s guest, Jesus pronounced that salvation has come to Zacchaeus' house since he as a son of Abraham not only by birth but now also by faith, is ready to make right his life and wholly follow the Lord. The salvation experience makes a person feel like returning all possessions that rightfully belong to another.
The apostles in the early church also preached and taught restitution. In fact the whole church of God lived by this teaching. Matthew 28:19,20; John 14:26; Acts 2:42; 16:4,5; Philemon 7:21. The rules of righteous living are just as high (or even higher) under the dispensation of Grace as those in the Old Testament. Restitution is as much a part of the Gospel as conversion or water baptism. It is not a self-righteous act to merit pardon. When a man is saved, he will not only make right matters of money such as theft, dishonest gains and unpaid bills; he will also confess his lies, slanderous reports, unjust criticisms, hatred, malice - those things in which one may have injured others in word or deed. One may say, ‘my brother or sister does not know that I talked evil of him’. but what about the person to whom you talked? Without doubt you have harmed him, and perhaps he repeated it to others. You should go to the one to whom you talked and confess it.
It is better that we make right all previous wrongs here and now than face it in eternity. The great counselor who never lost a case can go before us and soften the hearts of those whom we wronged (I Timothy 5:24).
Making restitution can be likened to a scriptural warfare in which we need God’s help and wisdom to undertake for us and quench all the fiery darts of the wicked (Ephesians 6:10-12,16). Some restitution are delicate. These are restitutions that may implicate or bring injuries or harm to others that may be unsaved; or the need to settle issues with individuals or organizations that may affect other people in an adverse way. It also includes cases in which we do not have clear leading from God’s word as to what steps to take. For delicate restitutions, we need fervent prayerfulness, wisdom and counseling from Spirit-filled preachers of God’s word who believe and teach the whole counsel of God (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22; 24:6).
The civil laws in a country may not always govern in matters of restitution. For example, the law may provide a time limit for certain classes of debts and obligations, after which they become lapse; but no debts are outlawed with God. Time cannot cancel moral obligations.
Restitution is usually considered at the time of salvation because God will only forgive when a man is willing, so far as it lies within his power to make right every wrong that he has committed against others. There would be need however throughout life as a Christian to be ready to make restitution where need be when others are offended, for example, out of human error of judgment (Acts 23:1-5, Matthew 5:23,24).
God demands that restitutions be made. A far-reaching benefit in God’s plan as regards restitution is that an undeniable testimony is directed to people who otherwise might never seriously hear the story of the gospel. A religion that compels a man to pay his just debts, restore back the things he has stolen, and uncover his crimes demands confidence from men of the world.
When restitutions are made, and past wrongs are settled, the peace of God floods the believer’s heart. There is confidence towards God in prayer and the believer makes progress in the Christian life as sense of guilt is removed (Romans 8:1,2).
Saturday, 5 January 2013
BIBLE DOCTRINE 5 - REPENTANCE
Repentance - That Repentance is a complete turning away from all sin and its deceitful pleasures, and that it is required of every sinner before he can truly and effectively believe in Jesus with saving faith. Proverb 28:13; Isaiah 55:7; Ezekiel 18:21-23; Mark 1:15; Luke 24:46,47; Acts 2:38; 3:19,21; II Corinthians 7:10; Hebrew 6:1-3.
God's Word teaches:
Repentance is a conscious turning away from evil, disobedience, sin or idolatry. It is also turning from Satan unto the Living God(Jonah 3:8-10); Proverbs 28:13; Matthew 12:41). Repentance evokes a change of one’s mind and purpose in life and changes all past actions. It elicits a form of godly sorrow (II Corinthians 7:10), which makes an erstwhile sinner regard sin with utter revulsion. Godly sorrow makes the sinner or backslider to turn away from sin. It also causes an abhorrence of hatred for sin. The need for repentance is the heartache of a deeply compassionate God (II Peter 3:9). Repentance is the genesis of the purpose of restoration for backsliders and sinners. It differs from tearful remorse, which is merely an expression of sorrow over an embarrassing outcome of sin (II Chronicles 7:14). It is a universal Command by God to all people (Ezekiel 14:6; 18:30).
Repentance is the central theme of the gospel. The doctrine and teaching of repentance is fundamental to the propagation of the gospel. It is a foundation stone in the cardinal doctrines of the New Testament Church. Its vital place in scripture, particularly in the New Testament, is underscored by the regularity of its usage. Repentance, repent or repenting occurs over sixty times in the New Testament alone.
It was the keynote of Christ's preaching as well as the sum and substance of evangelistic apostolic message. He repeatedly emphasized that His mission was providing repentance for the sinner (Matthew 9:13; Mark 2:17; Luke 5:32; Acts 3:18, 19,26; 11:18). Also, John the Baptist, the forerunner of the Lord anchored his fiery messages in the wilderness on repentance (Luke 3:3-8).
At the beginning of His ministry, Jesus preached repentance (Matthew 4:17). His valedictory message to His disciples shortly before He was taken to heaven, was hinged upon repentance (Luke 24:45-47). This was principally because repentance is cardinal to the sinner’s reconciliation with God. From His Eminent position in Glory, the Lord yet admonished the backslidden church to repent (Revelation 2:4-5; 3:3).
Peter and the other Apostles took a cue from the Lord and made the doctrine of repentance, the fundamental theme of their gospel homilies (Acts 2:38; 17:30). Paul the Apostle, sent to preach to the Gentiles, did not differ with either the Lord or other Apostles, on the necessity of repentance for the sinner backslider to gain the mercy of God. Repentance must therefore be preached to all men in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 24:47). Sinners and backsliders must be made to know that no one is excluded from the challenge of the gospel to repent, for it is only through it that the manifold blessing, arising from the remission of sins, could be appropriated.
Repentance, however, does not exist in isolation of faith. Saving faith is taken as implying the change of mind, which is repentance (Hebrews 11:9; Zechariah 8:14; Acts 20:21). Both are a response to grace, creating a completely different orientation for the erstwhile sinner. Works do not elicit repentance (II Timothy 1:9; Romans 3:27-28; 4:1-8; 6:23; Ephesians 2:8). Paradoxically, repentance must necessarily produce works otherwise it is unreal (James 2:14-26; Ephesians 2:9-10; Titus 2:5-8).
True repentance manifests a proper attitude towards sin (II Corinthians 7:10-11; Psalms 38:18; 51:17; II Samuel 12:13). The repentant heart henceforth treats sin with disdain. No sinner or backslider can be said to have genuinely repented if he still condones sin. This is because essentially sin is exceedingly abominable. Consequently, the need for repentance by the sinner must be the pivot around which redemption messages must be woven.
The practical side of repentance is restitution, which is the act of correcting all past wrongs and having a conscience void of offense towards God and man. God expects the repentant sinner or backslider to correct every wrong committed against others. Restitution is incontrovertibly an integral part of true repentance (Genesis 20:1-18; Number 5:6-8; II Kings 8:1-6; Ezekiel 33:14-16; Matthew 5:23-24; Acts 24:16). Through repentance, self-centeredness gives way to God or Christ centeredness. The forgiveness of sin is available only to those who repent, for they alone are worthy of God’s mercy.
Repentance opens the way and makes us receive the grace of God. It provides pardon and remission of sins (Isaiah 55:7; Proverbs 28:13; Luke 24:47; Acts 2:38; 3:19). Through it, sinners receive justification and acceptance (John 1:12-13; Galatians 3:8; 2:16; Romans 8:1; 5:12). Above all, there is joy in heaven, joy to God, Christ and heavenly hosts when a sinner repents (Luke 15:7,10,11-24). Repentance is a profitable doctrine that makes inward change and life a reality, while activating a life of faith.
God's Word teaches:
Repentance is a conscious turning away from evil, disobedience, sin or idolatry. It is also turning from Satan unto the Living God(Jonah 3:8-10); Proverbs 28:13; Matthew 12:41). Repentance evokes a change of one’s mind and purpose in life and changes all past actions. It elicits a form of godly sorrow (II Corinthians 7:10), which makes an erstwhile sinner regard sin with utter revulsion. Godly sorrow makes the sinner or backslider to turn away from sin. It also causes an abhorrence of hatred for sin. The need for repentance is the heartache of a deeply compassionate God (II Peter 3:9). Repentance is the genesis of the purpose of restoration for backsliders and sinners. It differs from tearful remorse, which is merely an expression of sorrow over an embarrassing outcome of sin (II Chronicles 7:14). It is a universal Command by God to all people (Ezekiel 14:6; 18:30).
Repentance is the central theme of the gospel. The doctrine and teaching of repentance is fundamental to the propagation of the gospel. It is a foundation stone in the cardinal doctrines of the New Testament Church. Its vital place in scripture, particularly in the New Testament, is underscored by the regularity of its usage. Repentance, repent or repenting occurs over sixty times in the New Testament alone.
It was the keynote of Christ's preaching as well as the sum and substance of evangelistic apostolic message. He repeatedly emphasized that His mission was providing repentance for the sinner (Matthew 9:13; Mark 2:17; Luke 5:32; Acts 3:18, 19,26; 11:18). Also, John the Baptist, the forerunner of the Lord anchored his fiery messages in the wilderness on repentance (Luke 3:3-8).
At the beginning of His ministry, Jesus preached repentance (Matthew 4:17). His valedictory message to His disciples shortly before He was taken to heaven, was hinged upon repentance (Luke 24:45-47). This was principally because repentance is cardinal to the sinner’s reconciliation with God. From His Eminent position in Glory, the Lord yet admonished the backslidden church to repent (Revelation 2:4-5; 3:3).
Peter and the other Apostles took a cue from the Lord and made the doctrine of repentance, the fundamental theme of their gospel homilies (Acts 2:38; 17:30). Paul the Apostle, sent to preach to the Gentiles, did not differ with either the Lord or other Apostles, on the necessity of repentance for the sinner backslider to gain the mercy of God. Repentance must therefore be preached to all men in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 24:47). Sinners and backsliders must be made to know that no one is excluded from the challenge of the gospel to repent, for it is only through it that the manifold blessing, arising from the remission of sins, could be appropriated.
Repentance, however, does not exist in isolation of faith. Saving faith is taken as implying the change of mind, which is repentance (Hebrews 11:9; Zechariah 8:14; Acts 20:21). Both are a response to grace, creating a completely different orientation for the erstwhile sinner. Works do not elicit repentance (II Timothy 1:9; Romans 3:27-28; 4:1-8; 6:23; Ephesians 2:8). Paradoxically, repentance must necessarily produce works otherwise it is unreal (James 2:14-26; Ephesians 2:9-10; Titus 2:5-8).
True repentance manifests a proper attitude towards sin (II Corinthians 7:10-11; Psalms 38:18; 51:17; II Samuel 12:13). The repentant heart henceforth treats sin with disdain. No sinner or backslider can be said to have genuinely repented if he still condones sin. This is because essentially sin is exceedingly abominable. Consequently, the need for repentance by the sinner must be the pivot around which redemption messages must be woven.
The practical side of repentance is restitution, which is the act of correcting all past wrongs and having a conscience void of offense towards God and man. God expects the repentant sinner or backslider to correct every wrong committed against others. Restitution is incontrovertibly an integral part of true repentance (Genesis 20:1-18; Number 5:6-8; II Kings 8:1-6; Ezekiel 33:14-16; Matthew 5:23-24; Acts 24:16). Through repentance, self-centeredness gives way to God or Christ centeredness. The forgiveness of sin is available only to those who repent, for they alone are worthy of God’s mercy.
Repentance opens the way and makes us receive the grace of God. It provides pardon and remission of sins (Isaiah 55:7; Proverbs 28:13; Luke 24:47; Acts 2:38; 3:19). Through it, sinners receive justification and acceptance (John 1:12-13; Galatians 3:8; 2:16; Romans 8:1; 5:12). Above all, there is joy in heaven, joy to God, Christ and heavenly hosts when a sinner repents (Luke 15:7,10,11-24). Repentance is a profitable doctrine that makes inward change and life a reality, while activating a life of faith.
BIBLE DOCTRINE 4 - TOTAL DEPRAVITY, SINFULNESS AND GUILT OF ALL MEN
The Fall of Man - The total depravity, sinfulness and guilt of all men since the Fall, rendering them subject to God’s wrath and condemnation. Psalm 51:5; Job 14:4; Romans 3:23; 5:12-17; Mark 7:21-23; Ephesians 2:1.
God's Word teaches:
The total depravity, sinfulness and guilt of all men since the fall, renders all sinners subject to God’s wrath and condemnation (Genesis 1:26-27; Psalms 8:5-8; Genesis 1:31). Man was created in the image of God, and he was righteous and holy. Man was the crown of God’s creation (Genesis 2:1 5-17; 3:1 -6; Romans 5:17,19; Psalms 51:1-5). Through voluntary disobedience and transgression, fell into the depths of sin. In consequence of this, everyone born through our first parents, (Adam and Eve) became sinners, shapened in iniquity and utterly void of the holiness of God. Every man totally inclined to evil. (Psalms 51:1-5; Romans 3:10-18,23; Romans 7:14-21; John 3:18,36; Romans 5:12-17; Job 14:4; Isaiah 48:8). As a result of the fall of man, (Adam and Eve) all men born through man and woman became sinners through inheritance. By inheriting the nature of sin, man became depraved. There is nothing in the natural man that has not been affected by the power of sin.
The entire nature of man, mentally, physically, morally and spiritually has been affected by sin. The testimony of the scriptures is that the image of God in man has been seriously marred by this great fall. As a result of the fall, and the nature of sin inherited, man became separated from God, totally alienated from the perfect, holy and pure God. This separation is the cause of the beginning of sorrow, shame, fear, heartaches and manifold problems spiritually and mentally. Man became a transgressor and debtor to God (Romans 1:32; 6:23; Ezekiel 18:4; Hebrews 9 :27). All these have brought man under the wrath and condemnation of God, for the soul that sinneth it shall die. There is nothing we can do for ourselves to commend us to a righteous and holy God. There is nothing the natural man (fallen away from grace) can offer to appease God for man to escape the righteous judgment of God.
The Bible describes the fallen nature of man in various terms. Jesus Christ referred to sinners outside the kingdom of God as Swine and Dogs. Give not that which is holy unto dogs, neither cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you (Matthew 7:6; mark 7:25-28). He also referred to them as goats (Matthew 25:33) Paul in his epistle to the Philippians church warned them to beware of evil workers as dogs (Philippians 3:2).
Also in his epistle to the Romans, Paul referred to the fallen nature of man as There is none righteous no, not one, they are together become unprofitable, their throat is an open sepulcher, whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness - for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:10-18,23,). Jesus and John the Baptist described the nature of men as vipers, (Matthew 3:7; Matthew 12:34). Variously the unregenerated man is characterized with -reprobate mind, being filled with all unrighteousness - immorality, covetousness full of envy, murder, (defiled and polluted ) (Romans 1:28-37 (Mark 7:21-23) Treacherous, Transgressor workers of iniquity, their thought are thoughts of iniquity, wasters and destroyers (Isaiah 48:8; 59:5-8) cunning and crafty, full of wickedness, blind, foolish with darkened understanding, children of wrath, (Ephesians 2:3; 4:14). The Bible says that the whole head of man is sick. The heart devices wicked imaginations, and has come far short of the glory of God. All men have become enslaved to sin, and because sin dwells in the natural man, man is conceived in sin, born in sin, grew up in sin - by nature and habit, he is a sinner. The natural man cannot resist sin.
The consequence of the fall of man is that man became totally depraved, and the immediate effect was his separation from the Holy God, and a curse upon Adam and his descendants (Genesis 3:1-6,14-19,23-24; Romans 5:12; 8:22). God's s judgment also came upon all men the soul that sinneth it shall die, the wages of sin is death (Ezekiel 8:4; Romans 6:23). The Human race has rebelled against God and broken his law, but the love of God constrained the holy God to plan for man’s redemption to fulfill the law that without the shedding of blood there is no remission (Hebrews 9:22). Therefore God undertook the redemption work for man by sending Jesus Christ to die for him Jesus Christ became the Divine Provision of a Perfect Substitute and Sin -bearer (Genesis 22:7, 8:14; 3:15 John 3:16; Hebrews 9:22). He became the Lamb of God (John 1:29; Matthew 1:21). By the perfect sacrifice of his blood, (I Corinthians 5:7) and through his blood, man has complete protection from the consequence of the fall, from the curse of the broken law, (Exodus 12:13; Galatians 3:13) complete removal of the guilt and condemnation of sin, and full redemption (Isaiah 53:4-8; Acts 8:32-35; I Peter 1:18-21; 2:24).
The atonement is the reconciliation of sinful, fallen man of God made possible through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The vicarious death of Jesus Christ is the substitution of the sufferings of Christ for the punishment of all sinners in the world. The prime purpose of this is the full redemption of fallen mankind. Through this mercy-seat sinners are reconciled to God. The power of sin over the natural man can only be broken by the Lord Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Romans 5:17-19)For as by one man's disobedience, many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one man shall many be made righteous.
God demands repentance from all sinners to avail themselves of the provision of redemption made in Jesus Christ (Isaiah 53:5-7; Matthew 20:28; 26:28; John 3:14,15; I Corinthians 5:7; John 1:12; 3:18,36). Repentance is the change, which takes place in the penitent’s attitude towards sin. It is turning away from sin to God. Sincere and total repentance and godly sorrow for sin through the agency of the Holy Spirit are important prerequisites for salvation. Repentance is the deep inward experience, which makes the sinner turn from sin to God. therefore God demands repentance from all men (Mark 1:15; Matthew 4:17; Luke 13:3,5; Luke 24: 47; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 17:30). When a sinner hears the gospel of the Holy Spirit, the sinner will have deep, godly sorrow for his sins and acknowledge them by confessing all manner of sins. He goes before God on the merit of the atonement made by Jesus Christ through his vicarious death and accepts the sacrifice as a substitute for the punishment of his own personal sins. On the basis of this process of genuine repentance, the sinner asks for forgiveness and pardon based on the promises of God in the scriptures (Proverbs 28:13; Isaiah 55:6,7; I John 1:9; Ezekiel 18:21-22. As the sinner, through the agency of the Holy Spirit repents genuinely, he will have forgiveness and pardon (Romans 8:16; II Corinthians 5:17; I John 2:2,3).
God's Word teaches:
The total depravity, sinfulness and guilt of all men since the fall, renders all sinners subject to God’s wrath and condemnation (Genesis 1:26-27; Psalms 8:5-8; Genesis 1:31). Man was created in the image of God, and he was righteous and holy. Man was the crown of God’s creation (Genesis 2:1 5-17; 3:1 -6; Romans 5:17,19; Psalms 51:1-5). Through voluntary disobedience and transgression, fell into the depths of sin. In consequence of this, everyone born through our first parents, (Adam and Eve) became sinners, shapened in iniquity and utterly void of the holiness of God. Every man totally inclined to evil. (Psalms 51:1-5; Romans 3:10-18,23; Romans 7:14-21; John 3:18,36; Romans 5:12-17; Job 14:4; Isaiah 48:8). As a result of the fall of man, (Adam and Eve) all men born through man and woman became sinners through inheritance. By inheriting the nature of sin, man became depraved. There is nothing in the natural man that has not been affected by the power of sin.
The entire nature of man, mentally, physically, morally and spiritually has been affected by sin. The testimony of the scriptures is that the image of God in man has been seriously marred by this great fall. As a result of the fall, and the nature of sin inherited, man became separated from God, totally alienated from the perfect, holy and pure God. This separation is the cause of the beginning of sorrow, shame, fear, heartaches and manifold problems spiritually and mentally. Man became a transgressor and debtor to God (Romans 1:32; 6:23; Ezekiel 18:4; Hebrews 9 :27). All these have brought man under the wrath and condemnation of God, for the soul that sinneth it shall die. There is nothing we can do for ourselves to commend us to a righteous and holy God. There is nothing the natural man (fallen away from grace) can offer to appease God for man to escape the righteous judgment of God.
The Bible describes the fallen nature of man in various terms. Jesus Christ referred to sinners outside the kingdom of God as Swine and Dogs. Give not that which is holy unto dogs, neither cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you (Matthew 7:6; mark 7:25-28). He also referred to them as goats (Matthew 25:33) Paul in his epistle to the Philippians church warned them to beware of evil workers as dogs (Philippians 3:2).
Also in his epistle to the Romans, Paul referred to the fallen nature of man as There is none righteous no, not one, they are together become unprofitable, their throat is an open sepulcher, whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness - for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:10-18,23,). Jesus and John the Baptist described the nature of men as vipers, (Matthew 3:7; Matthew 12:34). Variously the unregenerated man is characterized with -reprobate mind, being filled with all unrighteousness - immorality, covetousness full of envy, murder, (defiled and polluted ) (Romans 1:28-37 (Mark 7:21-23) Treacherous, Transgressor workers of iniquity, their thought are thoughts of iniquity, wasters and destroyers (Isaiah 48:8; 59:5-8) cunning and crafty, full of wickedness, blind, foolish with darkened understanding, children of wrath, (Ephesians 2:3; 4:14). The Bible says that the whole head of man is sick. The heart devices wicked imaginations, and has come far short of the glory of God. All men have become enslaved to sin, and because sin dwells in the natural man, man is conceived in sin, born in sin, grew up in sin - by nature and habit, he is a sinner. The natural man cannot resist sin.
The consequence of the fall of man is that man became totally depraved, and the immediate effect was his separation from the Holy God, and a curse upon Adam and his descendants (Genesis 3:1-6,14-19,23-24; Romans 5:12; 8:22). God's s judgment also came upon all men the soul that sinneth it shall die, the wages of sin is death (Ezekiel 8:4; Romans 6:23). The Human race has rebelled against God and broken his law, but the love of God constrained the holy God to plan for man’s redemption to fulfill the law that without the shedding of blood there is no remission (Hebrews 9:22). Therefore God undertook the redemption work for man by sending Jesus Christ to die for him Jesus Christ became the Divine Provision of a Perfect Substitute and Sin -bearer (Genesis 22:7, 8:14; 3:15 John 3:16; Hebrews 9:22). He became the Lamb of God (John 1:29; Matthew 1:21). By the perfect sacrifice of his blood, (I Corinthians 5:7) and through his blood, man has complete protection from the consequence of the fall, from the curse of the broken law, (Exodus 12:13; Galatians 3:13) complete removal of the guilt and condemnation of sin, and full redemption (Isaiah 53:4-8; Acts 8:32-35; I Peter 1:18-21; 2:24).
The atonement is the reconciliation of sinful, fallen man of God made possible through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The vicarious death of Jesus Christ is the substitution of the sufferings of Christ for the punishment of all sinners in the world. The prime purpose of this is the full redemption of fallen mankind. Through this mercy-seat sinners are reconciled to God. The power of sin over the natural man can only be broken by the Lord Jesus Christ (John 3:16; Romans 5:17-19)For as by one man's disobedience, many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one man shall many be made righteous.
God demands repentance from all sinners to avail themselves of the provision of redemption made in Jesus Christ (Isaiah 53:5-7; Matthew 20:28; 26:28; John 3:14,15; I Corinthians 5:7; John 1:12; 3:18,36). Repentance is the change, which takes place in the penitent’s attitude towards sin. It is turning away from sin to God. Sincere and total repentance and godly sorrow for sin through the agency of the Holy Spirit are important prerequisites for salvation. Repentance is the deep inward experience, which makes the sinner turn from sin to God. therefore God demands repentance from all men (Mark 1:15; Matthew 4:17; Luke 13:3,5; Luke 24: 47; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 17:30). When a sinner hears the gospel of the Holy Spirit, the sinner will have deep, godly sorrow for his sins and acknowledge them by confessing all manner of sins. He goes before God on the merit of the atonement made by Jesus Christ through his vicarious death and accepts the sacrifice as a substitute for the punishment of his own personal sins. On the basis of this process of genuine repentance, the sinner asks for forgiveness and pardon based on the promises of God in the scriptures (Proverbs 28:13; Isaiah 55:6,7; I John 1:9; Ezekiel 18:21-22. As the sinner, through the agency of the Holy Spirit repents genuinely, he will have forgiveness and pardon (Romans 8:16; II Corinthians 5:17; I John 2:2,3).
BIBLE DOCTRINE 3 - THE VIRGIN BIRTH OF JESUS
BIBLE DOCTRINES 3 - THE VIRGIN BIRTH OF JESUS
The virgin birth of Jesus, the only begotten Son of God. The crucifixion, death, burial and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ - Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25; Romans 1:4; I Corinthians 15:3,4.
God’s Word teaches:
The virgin birth teaches that Jesus, the only begotten Son of God, was miraculously conceived by the Virgin Mary. Prophetically, this was foretold in the Old Testament and became literally fulfilled later in the New Testament. Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 7:14. The virgin birth is thus an essential doctrinal truth, which must be upheld for its fact and significance. Disputing this cardinal doctrine is by implication, denying Christ’s Deity and His distinctive nature as the only sinless man, conceived without Adamic depravity. It was this distinctive spotlessness that disqualified every other man from satisfying God’s demand at Calvary. He therefore, became the spotless Lamb of God found in fashion as a man.
God was the first to unveil the virgin birth of Christ when he referred to Him as the seed of the Woman; Genesis 3:15. This was alluding to the fact that Christ would be conceived by a woman who had never known a man. The prophet Isaiah in his proclamation said, "Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a Son ..." (Isaiah 7:14). The word virgin as used in this reference, has obvious meaning and can be nothing else but a woman that has not known a man. Luke in his Gospel narrative recorded that the angel Gabriel was sent to a virgin, betrothed to a man and that the virgin’s name was Mary (Luke 1:26,27). After the announcement, Mary herself plainly said how shall these things be, seeing I know not a man? (Luke 1:34). Matthew in his Gospel, narrated that Mary was espoused to Joseph and that before they came together, she was found with a child of the Holy Ghost (Matthew 1:18). He further recorded that Joseph knew her not till she had brought forth her first-born Son, and he called His name JESUS.
Jesus sometimes referred to people as His mother, His brothers and sisters, but He never referred to any mortal man as His father, not even Joseph (Matthew 12:49-50; 22:41-46; John 8:54-58). He always referred to God as His Father and this is another proof of His virgin birth. Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, wrote that in the fullness of time. God sent forth His Son, made of a woman. This was still pointing to the fact that Christ was born of a virgin (Galatians 4:4). The Bible says that Joseph was a just man (Matthew 1:19). This means he was not a transgressor of God’s law.
If Mary as an espoused virgin had conceived through a strange man, it would then be right for Joseph to have her out of the way (Deuteronomy 22:23-24; Matthew 19:9). The penalty was even more grave than merely putting her away. The angel even could not have prevented Joseph from putting her away. The angel even bore witness that what was conceived in her was of Holy Ghost (Matthew 1:20).
On the other hand, if Joseph had known Mary before Christ was conceived, or was responsible for the conception, it would be unlawful for him to put her away (Malachi 2:14-16). The scriptures would not have qualified him as a just man if he were transgressing the Lord’s commandment. Joseph was instructed to take her as his wife. The virgin birth of Christ was a unique sign from God. The prophet Isaiah was very clear and definite about it (Isaiah 7:14); it distinguished Him from any other mortal and marked Him out as the only true Messiah.
God bears witness to His approved ministers in various ways. Some of the signs that were recorded concerning Christ and His ministry were also recorded concerning a few other messengers of God. The virgin birth however is probably the most unique and unprecedented sign. A voice from the cloud witnessed to the Ministry of Christ but that was not as unique as the virgin birth because we see a similar witness in the Ministry of Moses (Numbers 12:5-8; Matthew 17:5). An angel announced the conception of Christ but we also know that the births of Samson and John the Baptist were announced by angels (Judges 13:2-5; Luke 1:11-15,26-33). Moses, Samson and John the Baptist were all God’s messengers but they all had earthly fathers. They were all descendants of Adam’s fallen race. The virgin birth is therefore a unique sign from the Lord, conferred on Christ and Him alone, and no other living soul has ever or will ever be conceived by a virgin.
The virgin birth of Jesus, the only begotten Son of God. The crucifixion, death, burial and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ - Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25; Romans 1:4; I Corinthians 15:3,4.
God’s Word teaches:
The virgin birth teaches that Jesus, the only begotten Son of God, was miraculously conceived by the Virgin Mary. Prophetically, this was foretold in the Old Testament and became literally fulfilled later in the New Testament. Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 7:14. The virgin birth is thus an essential doctrinal truth, which must be upheld for its fact and significance. Disputing this cardinal doctrine is by implication, denying Christ’s Deity and His distinctive nature as the only sinless man, conceived without Adamic depravity. It was this distinctive spotlessness that disqualified every other man from satisfying God’s demand at Calvary. He therefore, became the spotless Lamb of God found in fashion as a man.
God was the first to unveil the virgin birth of Christ when he referred to Him as the seed of the Woman; Genesis 3:15. This was alluding to the fact that Christ would be conceived by a woman who had never known a man. The prophet Isaiah in his proclamation said, "Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a Son ..." (Isaiah 7:14). The word virgin as used in this reference, has obvious meaning and can be nothing else but a woman that has not known a man. Luke in his Gospel narrative recorded that the angel Gabriel was sent to a virgin, betrothed to a man and that the virgin’s name was Mary (Luke 1:26,27). After the announcement, Mary herself plainly said how shall these things be, seeing I know not a man? (Luke 1:34). Matthew in his Gospel, narrated that Mary was espoused to Joseph and that before they came together, she was found with a child of the Holy Ghost (Matthew 1:18). He further recorded that Joseph knew her not till she had brought forth her first-born Son, and he called His name JESUS.
Jesus sometimes referred to people as His mother, His brothers and sisters, but He never referred to any mortal man as His father, not even Joseph (Matthew 12:49-50; 22:41-46; John 8:54-58). He always referred to God as His Father and this is another proof of His virgin birth. Paul, under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, wrote that in the fullness of time. God sent forth His Son, made of a woman. This was still pointing to the fact that Christ was born of a virgin (Galatians 4:4). The Bible says that Joseph was a just man (Matthew 1:19). This means he was not a transgressor of God’s law.
If Mary as an espoused virgin had conceived through a strange man, it would then be right for Joseph to have her out of the way (Deuteronomy 22:23-24; Matthew 19:9). The penalty was even more grave than merely putting her away. The angel even could not have prevented Joseph from putting her away. The angel even bore witness that what was conceived in her was of Holy Ghost (Matthew 1:20).
On the other hand, if Joseph had known Mary before Christ was conceived, or was responsible for the conception, it would be unlawful for him to put her away (Malachi 2:14-16). The scriptures would not have qualified him as a just man if he were transgressing the Lord’s commandment. Joseph was instructed to take her as his wife. The virgin birth of Christ was a unique sign from God. The prophet Isaiah was very clear and definite about it (Isaiah 7:14); it distinguished Him from any other mortal and marked Him out as the only true Messiah.
God bears witness to His approved ministers in various ways. Some of the signs that were recorded concerning Christ and His ministry were also recorded concerning a few other messengers of God. The virgin birth however is probably the most unique and unprecedented sign. A voice from the cloud witnessed to the Ministry of Christ but that was not as unique as the virgin birth because we see a similar witness in the Ministry of Moses (Numbers 12:5-8; Matthew 17:5). An angel announced the conception of Christ but we also know that the births of Samson and John the Baptist were announced by angels (Judges 13:2-5; Luke 1:11-15,26-33). Moses, Samson and John the Baptist were all God’s messengers but they all had earthly fathers. They were all descendants of Adam’s fallen race. The virgin birth is therefore a unique sign from the Lord, conferred on Christ and Him alone, and no other living soul has ever or will ever be conceived by a virgin.
BIBLE DOCTRINE 2 - THE GODHEAD
That the Godhead consists of three separate, distinct, and recognizable personalities and qualities, perfectly united in one. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are different Persons in the Godhead, not merely three names for one Person (Matthew 3:16,17; Il Corinthians 13:14; Matthew 28:19,20).
God’s Word teaches:
The Godhead consists of the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost. The Bible clearly teaches that each member of the Godhead is God; separate, distinct and recognizable personalities and qualities perfectly united in one. The Father is called God (I Corinthians 8:6; Psalms 89:26; I Chronicles 29:10; Matthew 6:9). Jesus Christ is called God (Isaiah 9:6-7; John 20:28), and the Holy Ghost is called God (Acts 5:3-4; I Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:19-20; Hebrews 3:7-9; 10:15-16; Jeremiah 31:31-34). From the foregoing it is clear that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are three distinct Persons, co-eternal, co-existent and co-equal in power and divine attributes that make each God. The word ‘GOD’ in Genesis 1:1 means Elohim and in Hebrews language this is the plural of El (The Strong One). Elohim (The Strong Ones) appear more than 2,700 times in the old Testament and this plurality is seen in: Let Us make man in OUR image, after our likeness. The LORD said ... let US go down, and there confound their language (Genesis 1:26; 3:22; 11:6,7; John 14:23; Psalms 2:3). The Godhead is also referred to as the Holy Trinity (Romans 1:20).
The unity of the Godhead is scripturally evidenced in the execution of all divine plans and purposes: At creation, a significant fact about the Godhead emerged with the use of plural noun, ‘us’ by God Himself (Genesis 1:26). Elementarily, this implies the involvement of more than one personality in the creation of man. The same word continued to recur first, after the fall of man (Genesis 3:22), and on the threshold of God’s perfect desire to curb the foolish excesses of man, by wisely confounding him with diverse language (Genesis 11:7).
The testimony of scriptures on the ministry of the Lord Christ reveals the perfect unity of the Godhead. It was God’s anointing and the Power of the Holy Ghost that enabled Jesus to fulfill His ministry (Acts 10:38). The divine-human relationship also confirms the God in three persons perfecting the relationship of man with the Triune God (Ephesians 2:18).
The complementary function of the Trinity is referred to in almost all books of the New Testament (Matthew 3:16,17; 28:19; Mark 1:10; John 16:7-1 5; 6:37,44; Romans 8:16; I Thessalonians 5:23; Ephesians 5:25; I Peter 1:2; I Corinthians 12:4,5,6-7; Acts 10:38).
The three personalities in the Godhead acted together in the incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ. God the Father did not only make His Son available to assume the garb of human flesh, preparatory for His vicarious mission (John 3:16), but He dispatched the angel to announce the impending birth of the Savior of the whole world by a virgin. This was a supernatural work that was subsequently fully perfected by the power of the Holy Ghost (Luke 1:26,35).
Further proof of the truth about the Godhead became clear at the baptism of Jesus Christ, when the Father sent the Holy Ghost in bodily form as a dove upon Christ, and God Almighty Himself made a public proclamation of Jesus as His beloved Son. (Matthew 3:16,17). Even at the onset of His ministry, Jesus affirmed the companionship of God the Father and the Holy Ghost with Him. It was only by their combined workings that he was to fulfill His multi-pronged ministry of preaching the gospel, healing the sick, delivering the captives, etc. (Luke 4:18).
Truly, the work of redemption, which Jesus Christ completed by submitting Himself to die on the cross, was a joint venture with the Father and the Holy Ghost. (Hebrews 9:14), as was the second work of grace, sanctification or holiness, by which man is cleansed from his in-bred depravity, the fallen nature he inherited from Adam, (John 17:17; Romans 15:16). Also, the Godhead is at work in empowering believers through the baptism in the Holy Spirit, to discharge the duties handed them by God. (John 15:26; 16:7-1 5; Luke 11:13).
Christ’s command as He handed down the Great Commission to His disciples was to baptize all that repent and believe the gospel, in the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost (Matthew 28:19).
Even today, our prayer involves the three personalities in the Godhead. We direct our prayers to God the Father (Luke 11:2; 22:42; 23:34,46: John 17:1,5,24-26; James 1:5) through Jesus Christ, the Son (John 14:13,14; 15:16). And of course, without the help of the Holy Spirit, all our prayers will be in vain (Romans 8:26). The Godhead is the universal testimony of the scriptures, for There are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word(Son) and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one (I John 5:7). It is only the perfect work of the Godhead that has continued to sustain us on a day-to-day basis as believers (II Corinthians 13:14).
The Godhead is a great mystery, which is clearly beyond the finite mind of the unsaved, natural man (I Corinthians 2:14). The believer accepts the gospel truth of the Trinity by faith, recognizing that God remains the eternal repository of all mysteries (Deuteronomy 29:29); that with respect to His being or essence, God is one; with respect to His personality. God is three; and the essence must neither be divided nor the persons confused. In spite of the great mystery surrounding it, the doctrine of the Godhead has always proved to be eminently rich in spiritual and practical values. And for all those willing, the Lord Jesus Christ promises the advent of a blissful reign by the Godhead (John 14:23; Revelation 3:20).
God’s Word teaches:
The Godhead consists of the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost. The Bible clearly teaches that each member of the Godhead is God; separate, distinct and recognizable personalities and qualities perfectly united in one. The Father is called God (I Corinthians 8:6; Psalms 89:26; I Chronicles 29:10; Matthew 6:9). Jesus Christ is called God (Isaiah 9:6-7; John 20:28), and the Holy Ghost is called God (Acts 5:3-4; I Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:19-20; Hebrews 3:7-9; 10:15-16; Jeremiah 31:31-34). From the foregoing it is clear that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are three distinct Persons, co-eternal, co-existent and co-equal in power and divine attributes that make each God. The word ‘GOD’ in Genesis 1:1 means Elohim and in Hebrews language this is the plural of El (The Strong One). Elohim (The Strong Ones) appear more than 2,700 times in the old Testament and this plurality is seen in: Let Us make man in OUR image, after our likeness. The LORD said ... let US go down, and there confound their language (Genesis 1:26; 3:22; 11:6,7; John 14:23; Psalms 2:3). The Godhead is also referred to as the Holy Trinity (Romans 1:20).
The unity of the Godhead is scripturally evidenced in the execution of all divine plans and purposes: At creation, a significant fact about the Godhead emerged with the use of plural noun, ‘us’ by God Himself (Genesis 1:26). Elementarily, this implies the involvement of more than one personality in the creation of man. The same word continued to recur first, after the fall of man (Genesis 3:22), and on the threshold of God’s perfect desire to curb the foolish excesses of man, by wisely confounding him with diverse language (Genesis 11:7).
The testimony of scriptures on the ministry of the Lord Christ reveals the perfect unity of the Godhead. It was God’s anointing and the Power of the Holy Ghost that enabled Jesus to fulfill His ministry (Acts 10:38). The divine-human relationship also confirms the God in three persons perfecting the relationship of man with the Triune God (Ephesians 2:18).
The complementary function of the Trinity is referred to in almost all books of the New Testament (Matthew 3:16,17; 28:19; Mark 1:10; John 16:7-1 5; 6:37,44; Romans 8:16; I Thessalonians 5:23; Ephesians 5:25; I Peter 1:2; I Corinthians 12:4,5,6-7; Acts 10:38).
The three personalities in the Godhead acted together in the incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ. God the Father did not only make His Son available to assume the garb of human flesh, preparatory for His vicarious mission (John 3:16), but He dispatched the angel to announce the impending birth of the Savior of the whole world by a virgin. This was a supernatural work that was subsequently fully perfected by the power of the Holy Ghost (Luke 1:26,35).
Further proof of the truth about the Godhead became clear at the baptism of Jesus Christ, when the Father sent the Holy Ghost in bodily form as a dove upon Christ, and God Almighty Himself made a public proclamation of Jesus as His beloved Son. (Matthew 3:16,17). Even at the onset of His ministry, Jesus affirmed the companionship of God the Father and the Holy Ghost with Him. It was only by their combined workings that he was to fulfill His multi-pronged ministry of preaching the gospel, healing the sick, delivering the captives, etc. (Luke 4:18).
Truly, the work of redemption, which Jesus Christ completed by submitting Himself to die on the cross, was a joint venture with the Father and the Holy Ghost. (Hebrews 9:14), as was the second work of grace, sanctification or holiness, by which man is cleansed from his in-bred depravity, the fallen nature he inherited from Adam, (John 17:17; Romans 15:16). Also, the Godhead is at work in empowering believers through the baptism in the Holy Spirit, to discharge the duties handed them by God. (John 15:26; 16:7-1 5; Luke 11:13).
Christ’s command as He handed down the Great Commission to His disciples was to baptize all that repent and believe the gospel, in the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost (Matthew 28:19).
Even today, our prayer involves the three personalities in the Godhead. We direct our prayers to God the Father (Luke 11:2; 22:42; 23:34,46: John 17:1,5,24-26; James 1:5) through Jesus Christ, the Son (John 14:13,14; 15:16). And of course, without the help of the Holy Spirit, all our prayers will be in vain (Romans 8:26). The Godhead is the universal testimony of the scriptures, for There are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word(Son) and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one (I John 5:7). It is only the perfect work of the Godhead that has continued to sustain us on a day-to-day basis as believers (II Corinthians 13:14).
The Godhead is a great mystery, which is clearly beyond the finite mind of the unsaved, natural man (I Corinthians 2:14). The believer accepts the gospel truth of the Trinity by faith, recognizing that God remains the eternal repository of all mysteries (Deuteronomy 29:29); that with respect to His being or essence, God is one; with respect to His personality. God is three; and the essence must neither be divided nor the persons confused. In spite of the great mystery surrounding it, the doctrine of the Godhead has always proved to be eminently rich in spiritual and practical values. And for all those willing, the Lord Jesus Christ promises the advent of a blissful reign by the Godhead (John 14:23; Revelation 3:20).
BIBLE DOCTRINE I - THE HOLY BIBLE
That the Holy Bible, consisting of 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New Testament, is inspired Word of God. We take the Bible as final authority in all matters concerning Christian conduct and work (II Timothy 3:16,17; Proverbs 30:5,6; Revelation 22:18,19).
God’s Word teaches:
The Holy Bible is the inspired word of God and it is the only source of knowledge of the Almighty God to all mankind. It is the contact point between the finite man with the Infinite God; and its prime purpose is to give mankind a revelation of God (II Timothy 3:15-17). The Bible is severally referred to as the Holy Scriptures (Romans 1:2; II Timothy 3:15), the oracles of God (Romans 3:2; Hebrews 5:12), the Book of the Lord (Isaiah 34:16), the word of God (Mark 7:13), the word of Christ (Colossians 3:16) and the word of Life (Philippians 2:16). It is in two major parts: the Old and the New Testaments. It consists of 66 books, 39 of which are in the Old Testament, 27 in the New Testament. The Bible was originally written predominantly in Hebrew and Greek. The Old Testament was written in Hebrew and Aramaic, while the New Testament was written in Greek language. There were over 40 authors drawn from disparate generations spanning a period of over 1800 years were used by God to write the Bible. Even though their occupations, education and social classes were divergent, their theme was the same as they were inspired by the Holy Ghost (II Peter 1:20). The inspiration of the authors can be attested to by some peculiar characteristics of the Bible, which are not found in any other book written by man. Such characteristics include its wonderful unity despite the fact that the authors lived at different ages; its versatility as it meets the needs of all people irrespective of race, and language, (Matthew 4:4); its superiority to other books; the influence on individuals and nations; its preservation over the centuries; its fulfilled prophecies (Isaiah 7:14; Ezekiel 36:19; II Chronicles 7:19) and its perfection (Psalms 19:7; James 1:25).
The Pre-eminence of the Bible (Isaiah 40:8; Psalms 119:89) makes it indispensable to all men today. While other books have limited influence on individuals because they are products of finite minds, the Bible which is God’s revelation to man has solution to every problem today. Therefore, no man's education is complete if he is ignorant of the provisions of the Bible. No Christian can live successfully without an adequate grasp of the Bible and no Christian Minister is really qualified for the Ministry of the church of Christ without a thorough knowledge of the Bible (II Timothy 2:15). Without a ready knowledge of the Bible, a Christian worker cannot be effective.
The central theme of the Bible is CHRIST and HIS WORK OF REDEMPTION (John 20:31; Luke 24:25-27; Revelation 1:1). He is the Old Testament concealed and he is the New Testament revealed. To fully understand the Bible and to rightly interpret its messages, we must first receive Jesus Christ as Savior and have a clear and definite experience of conversion. Those who do not know Christ and those who have wrong conceptions about Christ cannot interpret the Bible appropriately because the carnal man cannot understand the things of the spirit.
The Bible has a Ministry to the unbelievers and the believers. To the unbelievers, the Bible brings conviction for sin, which leads to repentance and faith in Christ Jesus. To believers, the goal of the Bible are various; it is to make believers perfect (Psalm 119:9,11); to reveal the condition of their hearts (Hebrew 4:12; Jeremiah 17:9,10); it is a light to the believers feet (Psalms 119:105; 130); the food of the soul (Deuteronomy 8:3, John 21:17; Psalms 19:10; Matthew 4:4); a medicine to the body and soul (Proverbs 4:20-22; Psalms 107:20; Matthew 8:8); and the sword of the spirit (Ephesians 6:17; Matthew 4:1- 11); it is a mirror to reflect (James 1:23); a hammer to convict and fire to refine (Jeremiah 23:29); seed to multiply (I Peter 1:23); aver to cleanse (Ephesians 5:26; John 15:3); rain and snow to refresh (Isaiah 55:10); gold to enrich (Psalms 19:7-10); and power to create life and faith (I Peter 1:23; Romans 10:17).
The Bible is God’s inspired revelation of the origin and destiny of all things. It is the power of God unto eternal salvation and it is the source of present help for the body, soul and spirit (Romans 1:16; John 15:7). It is God’s will and testament to men in all ages, revealing the plan of God for man here and now in the next life. It is the record of God’s dealing with men; past, present and future. It contains God’s message of eternal salvation to all who believe in Christ and of eternal damnation to those who rebel against the gospel (John 3:18,36).
The purpose of the Bible then is to reveal God to man, reveal man’s need of God and show man the way to God. Man by searching cannot find God except God makes himself known to him (Job 11:7). The Bible also reveals to man how to live and through the fulfillment of its prophecies all human needs are met - we receive salvation, sanctification, Holy Ghost Baptism, healing, deliverance, protection, etc.
For us to profit maximally from the study of the Bible, all hindrances to spiritual receptivity must be removed, such as hardened heart (Matthew 13:3-6; 18-21), double-mindedness (James 1:8; Mark 4:15-17), pride (Deuteronomy 8:11-14; Psalms 101:5; Proverbs 18:12), carnality (I Corinthians 3:1-5), and unbelief (Matthew 13:58).
Every believer in the church today can benefit from the hidden treasures in the Bible but this would require sacrifices on our part. Treasures are not found except by searching or digging earnestly. Likewise the deep Bible truths needs to be sought for and in doing this we will discover Christ the more (Colossians 2:3; John 5:39). Certain spiritual preparations are required from believers in order to discover these treasures that would make them develop into the fullness of the stature of Christ. There must be earnest love for truth for its own sake (Psalms 119:40,47,54,72,103); supreme love of God (Matthew 22:37; Deuteronomy 30:6; Psalms 73:25); and an intense desire to know more of Him (Psalms 42:1,2; 63:1). Also there should be a strong desire to make Him known to others (Proverbs 11:24-26; Romans 9:1-3), willingness to make personal sacrifice to study (Matthew 13:44-46; 12:42), a sense of ignorance and dependence upon divine teaching and willingness to practice as far as you learn (Psalms 119:60, 101, 106; James 1:22-25; Ezra 7:10). Other requirements are fixed purpose to know and do the whole truth (Psalms 119:63; 57:7; 108:1) and cultivating a state of mind that will not be diverted to make provision for the flesh (Romans 13:14; Matthew 26:41 ).
Above all, it is the regular habit of prayer, resignation to the whole will of God and His word that will make us discover the treasures hidden in the Bible.
God’s Word teaches:
The Holy Bible is the inspired word of God and it is the only source of knowledge of the Almighty God to all mankind. It is the contact point between the finite man with the Infinite God; and its prime purpose is to give mankind a revelation of God (II Timothy 3:15-17). The Bible is severally referred to as the Holy Scriptures (Romans 1:2; II Timothy 3:15), the oracles of God (Romans 3:2; Hebrews 5:12), the Book of the Lord (Isaiah 34:16), the word of God (Mark 7:13), the word of Christ (Colossians 3:16) and the word of Life (Philippians 2:16). It is in two major parts: the Old and the New Testaments. It consists of 66 books, 39 of which are in the Old Testament, 27 in the New Testament. The Bible was originally written predominantly in Hebrew and Greek. The Old Testament was written in Hebrew and Aramaic, while the New Testament was written in Greek language. There were over 40 authors drawn from disparate generations spanning a period of over 1800 years were used by God to write the Bible. Even though their occupations, education and social classes were divergent, their theme was the same as they were inspired by the Holy Ghost (II Peter 1:20). The inspiration of the authors can be attested to by some peculiar characteristics of the Bible, which are not found in any other book written by man. Such characteristics include its wonderful unity despite the fact that the authors lived at different ages; its versatility as it meets the needs of all people irrespective of race, and language, (Matthew 4:4); its superiority to other books; the influence on individuals and nations; its preservation over the centuries; its fulfilled prophecies (Isaiah 7:14; Ezekiel 36:19; II Chronicles 7:19) and its perfection (Psalms 19:7; James 1:25).
The Pre-eminence of the Bible (Isaiah 40:8; Psalms 119:89) makes it indispensable to all men today. While other books have limited influence on individuals because they are products of finite minds, the Bible which is God’s revelation to man has solution to every problem today. Therefore, no man's education is complete if he is ignorant of the provisions of the Bible. No Christian can live successfully without an adequate grasp of the Bible and no Christian Minister is really qualified for the Ministry of the church of Christ without a thorough knowledge of the Bible (II Timothy 2:15). Without a ready knowledge of the Bible, a Christian worker cannot be effective.
The central theme of the Bible is CHRIST and HIS WORK OF REDEMPTION (John 20:31; Luke 24:25-27; Revelation 1:1). He is the Old Testament concealed and he is the New Testament revealed. To fully understand the Bible and to rightly interpret its messages, we must first receive Jesus Christ as Savior and have a clear and definite experience of conversion. Those who do not know Christ and those who have wrong conceptions about Christ cannot interpret the Bible appropriately because the carnal man cannot understand the things of the spirit.
The Bible has a Ministry to the unbelievers and the believers. To the unbelievers, the Bible brings conviction for sin, which leads to repentance and faith in Christ Jesus. To believers, the goal of the Bible are various; it is to make believers perfect (Psalm 119:9,11); to reveal the condition of their hearts (Hebrew 4:12; Jeremiah 17:9,10); it is a light to the believers feet (Psalms 119:105; 130); the food of the soul (Deuteronomy 8:3, John 21:17; Psalms 19:10; Matthew 4:4); a medicine to the body and soul (Proverbs 4:20-22; Psalms 107:20; Matthew 8:8); and the sword of the spirit (Ephesians 6:17; Matthew 4:1- 11); it is a mirror to reflect (James 1:23); a hammer to convict and fire to refine (Jeremiah 23:29); seed to multiply (I Peter 1:23); aver to cleanse (Ephesians 5:26; John 15:3); rain and snow to refresh (Isaiah 55:10); gold to enrich (Psalms 19:7-10); and power to create life and faith (I Peter 1:23; Romans 10:17).
The Bible is God’s inspired revelation of the origin and destiny of all things. It is the power of God unto eternal salvation and it is the source of present help for the body, soul and spirit (Romans 1:16; John 15:7). It is God’s will and testament to men in all ages, revealing the plan of God for man here and now in the next life. It is the record of God’s dealing with men; past, present and future. It contains God’s message of eternal salvation to all who believe in Christ and of eternal damnation to those who rebel against the gospel (John 3:18,36).
The purpose of the Bible then is to reveal God to man, reveal man’s need of God and show man the way to God. Man by searching cannot find God except God makes himself known to him (Job 11:7). The Bible also reveals to man how to live and through the fulfillment of its prophecies all human needs are met - we receive salvation, sanctification, Holy Ghost Baptism, healing, deliverance, protection, etc.
For us to profit maximally from the study of the Bible, all hindrances to spiritual receptivity must be removed, such as hardened heart (Matthew 13:3-6; 18-21), double-mindedness (James 1:8; Mark 4:15-17), pride (Deuteronomy 8:11-14; Psalms 101:5; Proverbs 18:12), carnality (I Corinthians 3:1-5), and unbelief (Matthew 13:58).
Every believer in the church today can benefit from the hidden treasures in the Bible but this would require sacrifices on our part. Treasures are not found except by searching or digging earnestly. Likewise the deep Bible truths needs to be sought for and in doing this we will discover Christ the more (Colossians 2:3; John 5:39). Certain spiritual preparations are required from believers in order to discover these treasures that would make them develop into the fullness of the stature of Christ. There must be earnest love for truth for its own sake (Psalms 119:40,47,54,72,103); supreme love of God (Matthew 22:37; Deuteronomy 30:6; Psalms 73:25); and an intense desire to know more of Him (Psalms 42:1,2; 63:1). Also there should be a strong desire to make Him known to others (Proverbs 11:24-26; Romans 9:1-3), willingness to make personal sacrifice to study (Matthew 13:44-46; 12:42), a sense of ignorance and dependence upon divine teaching and willingness to practice as far as you learn (Psalms 119:60, 101, 106; James 1:22-25; Ezra 7:10). Other requirements are fixed purpose to know and do the whole truth (Psalms 119:63; 57:7; 108:1) and cultivating a state of mind that will not be diverted to make provision for the flesh (Romans 13:14; Matthew 26:41 ).
Above all, it is the regular habit of prayer, resignation to the whole will of God and His word that will make us discover the treasures hidden in the Bible.
Saturday, 22 December 2012
INTRODUCTION TO BIBLE DOCTRINES
INTRODUCTION TO BIBLE DOCTRINES
2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16,17
Doctrine, to the church, is what a foundation is to a building. It is the article of faith on which a believer’s faith is anchored. A building with a weak foundation will collapse under intense unfavourable weather and environmental conditions while a building with solid foundation will weather through storms (Matthew 7:24-27). A believer’s steadfastness and stability in the Lord is dependent on a firm grasp of the Truth revealed in the Bible (Ephesians 4:13,14). Whereas, lack of knowledge leads to backsliding and destruction (Hosea 4:6). In a world of error and deceit engineered by Satan and his hosts (John 8:44) a believer needs to be well grounded in the truth in order to frontally attack every lie of Satan if he is to remain in faith (Matthew 4:3,4). The early believers understood perfectly the need to be grounded in the doctrines. Both old and young engaged in spiritual activities that built up their Christian character and convictions. They studied the doctrines, prayed and celebrated the Lord’s Supper (Acts 2:41-47). It should be observed that the study of the doctrines took a place of pre-eminence in their ministry. These Spirit-directed activities of the early saints led to the phenomenal growth of the early Church. Apart from this, it brought about boldness, steadfastness, and growth (Daniel 11:32; Acts 4:19,20), to the extent that the whole of Jerusalem was filled with Christ’s doctrine (Act 5:28).
1. The Holy Bible - That the Holy Bible, consisting of 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New Testament, is the inspired Word of God. We take the Bible as final authority in all matters concerning Christian conduct and work. II Timothy 3:16,17; Proverbs 30:5,6; Revelation 22:18,19.
2. The Godhead - That the Godhead consists of three separate, distinct and recognizable personalities and qualities, perfectly united in one. The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost are different Persons in the Godhead, not merely three names for one Person. Matthew 3:16,17; II Corinthians13:14; Matthew 28:19,20.
3. The Virgin Birth of Jesus - The virgin birth of Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God. The crucifixion, death, burial and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ. Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25; Romans 1:4; I Corinthians 15:3,4.
4. The Fall of Man - The total depravity, sinfulness and guilt of all men since the Fall, rendering them subject to God’s wrath and condemnation. Psalm 51:5; Job 14:4; Romans 3:23; 5:12-17; Mark 7:21-23; Ephesians 2:1.
5. Repentance - That Repentance is a complete turning away from all sin and its deceitful pleasures, and that it is required of every sinner before he can truly and effectively believe in Jesus with saving faith. Proverb 28:13; Isaiah 55:7; Ezekiel 18:21-23; Mark 1:15; Luke 24:46,47; Acts 2:38; 3:19,21; II Corinthians 7:10; Hebrew 6:1-3.
6. Restitution - That Restitution is making amends for wrongs done against our fellowmen, restoring stolen things to their rightful owners, paying debts, giving back where one has defrauded, making confessions to the offended and apologising to those slandered, so as to have a conscience void of offence toward God and man. Genesis 20:1-8,14-18; Exodus 22:1-7; Leviticus 6:1-17; Numbers 5:6-8; 11 Samuel 12:1-6; Proverbs 6:31; Ezekiel 33:14-16; Matthew 5:23,24; Luke 19:8,9; Acts 23:1-5; 24:16; James 4:17-5:6.
7. Justification - That Justification (or Regeneration) is the act of God’s grace whereby one receives forgiveness and remission of sins, and is counted righteous before God, through faith in the atoning blood of Jesus, standing before God as though he had never sinned. Psalm 32:1,2; Isaiah 1:18; Micah 7:29; John 3:3-8; Acts 13:38,39; Romans 3:24-30; 4:6-16; 5:1,2; II Corinthians 5:17-21; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8,9; Titus 3:5; I Peter 1:23.
8. Water Baptism - That Water Baptism is essential to our obedience after reconciliation with God. Water Baptism is one immersion (not three), “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost”, as Jesus commanded. Matthew 28:19; 3:13-17; Mark 16:15; Acts 2:38,39; 19:1-6; Romans 6:4,5.
9. The Lord's Supper - That the Lord’s Supper was constituted by Jesus Christ so that all believers (all members of the family of God) might partake thereof regularly to “show the Lord’s death till He come.” The emblems used are “unleavened bread” and the juice of the “fruit of the vine”. Anyone who eats and drinks unworthily brings “damnation”, punishment and chastisement upon himself. Matthew 26:26-29; Luke 22:17-20; I Corinthians 11:23-30.
10. Sanctification - That Entire Sanctification is a definite act of God’s grace, subsequent to the New Birth, by which the believer’s heart is purified and made holy. It cannot be attained progressively by works, struggle or suppression, but it is obtained by faith in the sanctifying blood of Jesus Christ. Holiness of life and purity of heart are central to Christian living. Luke 1:74,75; John 17:15-17; I Thessalonians 4:3,7,8; 5:22-24; Ephesians 5:25-27; Hebrew 2:11; 10:10,14; 13:11; Titus 2:11-14; I John 1:7; Hebrew 12:14; I Peter 1:14-16.
11. Holy Ghost Baptism - That the Baptism in the Holy Ghost is the endowment with power from on high upon the sanctified believer. It is the “promise of the Father” and when one receives this “gift of the Holy Ghost”, it is accompanied by the initial evidence of speaking a language unlearned previously, referred to as speaking in tongues as the Spirit gives utterance. Matthew 3:11; Acts 1:8; Luke 3:16; 24:49; John 1:20-33; 7:37-39; 14:16,17,26; 15:26; 16:12-15; Acts 1:5-8; Mark 16:17; Acts 2:1-18; 10:44-46; 19:1-6. We do not teach or instruct people on how to speak in tongues: the Holy Spirit gives the utterance. We also stress the necessity of Purity before Power.
12. Redemption from Curse of the Law - That Redemption from the curse of the law, Healing of sickness and disease as well as continued Health are provided for all people through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. Exodus 15:26; Deuteronomy 7:15; Psalm 103:1-5; Proverbs 4:20-22; Isaiah 53:4,5; Matthew 8:16,17; I Peter 2:24; Mark 16:15-18; Luke 13:16; John 15:12-14; 10:10; Acts 10:38; James 5:14-16; I John 3:8; III John 2; Galatians 3:13,14.
13. Personal Evangelism - That Personal Evangelism is a God-given and God-ordained ministry for every believer. Jesus commanded, and God requires every believer to be a compassionate and faithful soulwinner, bringing others to Christ. Matthew 28:19,20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-49; John 17:18; Acts 1:8; 8:1-4; Psalm 126:5,6; Proverbs 11:30; Daniel 12:3; Ezekiel 13:17-21.
14. Marriage - That Marriage is binding for life. Monogamy is the uniform teaching of the Bible. Polygamy is contrary to the New Testament dispensation. No one has a right to divorce and remarry while the first companion lives. When a person becomes converted, necessary restitution, on this line, must be done without delay, if he has married wrongly. Genesis 2:24; Deuteronomy 7:1-4; Joshua 23:11-13; II Corinthians 6:14-18; Proverbs 31:10-31; Malachi 2:14,15; Romans 7:2,3; Ephesians 5:31-33; Matthew 5:31,32; 19:3-9; Mark 10:2-12; Luke 16:18; John 4:15-19; Genesis 20:3,7.
15. The Rapture - That the Rapture (commonly referred to as the first phase of stage of the SECOND COMING OF CHRIST) is the catching away from the earth of all living saints and all who died in the Lord. The Rapture will take place before the Great Tribulation, and it can happen any time from now. “In the twinkling of an eye”, without a moment’s warning, “the trumpet shall sound” “...and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” John 14:1-3; Luke 21:34-36; I Corinthians 15:51-58; I Thessalonians 4:13-18; 5:4-9; II Thessalonians 2:5-7; Philippians 3:11,20,21; I John 3:1-3.
16. The Resurrection of the Dead - That the Resurrection of the dead is taught in the Bible as clearly as the immortality of the soul. Every individual who has ever lived will be resurrected, some to honour and glory, and others to everlasting shame and contempt. Job 19:25-27; Psalm 71:20; Isaiah 26:19; Daniel 12:2; John 5:28,29; I Corinthians 15:12-57; I Thessalonians 4:13-16; Hebrews 6:1,2; Philippians 3:8-11; Revelation 20:4,6,12,13.
17. The Great Tribulation - That the Great Tribulation will occur after the rapture, and will be a time of terrible suffering on earth. It is also referred to as the time of Jacob’s Trouble. Matthew 24:21,22,29; Revelation 9:16; Mark 13:19; II Thessalonians 2:3-12; Revelation 13. During this time, the Antichrist will take possession of this world for a reign of terror. He will not be a system or organization, but a person — a supernatural, diabolical being, in the form of a man who will blaspheme and proclaim himself to be God. Daniel 6:23-35; II Thessalonians 2:7-12; Revelation 13:1-10. The Marriage Supper of the Lamb will take place above while the Tribulation continues on earth. Revelation 19:1-10.
18. The Second Coming of Christ - That the Second Coming of Christ will just be as literal as His going away, and He is coming to execute judgement upon the ungodly. He will also, then, set up His kingdom and reign on this present earth for a thousand years. Zechariah 14:3,4; Matthew 25:31-46; 26:64; Mark 13:24-37; II Thessalonians 1:7-10; 2:8; Jude 14,15.
19. The Millennial Reign of Christ - That Christ’s Millennial Reign is the 1,000 years’ literal reign of Jesus on earth, which will be ushered in by the coming of Jesus back to earth with ten thousands of His saints. At this time He will judge the nations that dwell upon the face of the earth. Jude 14,15; II Thessalonians 1:7-10. During this time the devil will be bound. Revelation 20:2,3. It will be a reign of peace and blessing. Isaiah 11:6-9; 65:25; Hosea 2:18; Zechariah 14:9-20; 2:2-4.
20. The Great White Throne Judgment - That the Great White Throne Judgment is when God finally judges all (the living and the dead, small and great) who have ever lived on the face of the earth, according to their works. This is after the Millennium. At this time the final Judgement known as the Great White Throne Judgment, will be held. All those from all ages, who have not yet been judged (believers’ judgement, as sinners’, was accomplished by Christ on the Cross — John 5:24; 3:17-19) will stand before God at this time. The devil and his angels are judged at this time also, and sent to the lake of fire for ever. Daniel 12:2,3; Matthew 10:15; 11:21-24; 12:41,42; John 5:28,29; Romans 2:15,16; 14:12; II Peter 2:9; Jude 6; I Corinthians 6:1-4; Acts 10:42; Revelation 20:11-15.
21. The New Heaven and the New Earth - That the New Heaven and the New Earth “wherein dwelleth righteousness” will be made by God and the redeemed shall dwell with God for ever. This present earth which has been polluted by sin will pass away after the Great White Throne Judgment. Psalm 102:25,26; Isaiah 51:6; 65:17; Matthew 5:18; 24:35; II Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1. No unclean thing shall be there. We shall know each other, our knowledge having been perfected. There will be no more curse upon anything. There will be no more night: the glory of the Lord will be the light thereof. Isaiah 66:22; II Peter 3:12,13; I Corinthians 13:12; I John 3:2,3; Revelation 21:1-7; 22:1-5.
22. Hell Fire - That Hell-fire is a place of everlasting punishment where sinners (all who do not have their names in the book of life) will suffer torments for ever and ever. It was prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41), but God has decreed that the wicked and those who forget Him and reject Christ, will also be cast there, because of their sin and neglect of His salvation. Psalm 9:17; Matthew 25:46; Luke 12:4,5; 16:19-31; Matthew 5:22,30; Mark 9:43-47; Revelation 14:10,11; 20:10,12-15
2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16,17
Doctrine, to the church, is what a foundation is to a building. It is the article of faith on which a believer’s faith is anchored. A building with a weak foundation will collapse under intense unfavourable weather and environmental conditions while a building with solid foundation will weather through storms (Matthew 7:24-27). A believer’s steadfastness and stability in the Lord is dependent on a firm grasp of the Truth revealed in the Bible (Ephesians 4:13,14). Whereas, lack of knowledge leads to backsliding and destruction (Hosea 4:6). In a world of error and deceit engineered by Satan and his hosts (John 8:44) a believer needs to be well grounded in the truth in order to frontally attack every lie of Satan if he is to remain in faith (Matthew 4:3,4). The early believers understood perfectly the need to be grounded in the doctrines. Both old and young engaged in spiritual activities that built up their Christian character and convictions. They studied the doctrines, prayed and celebrated the Lord’s Supper (Acts 2:41-47). It should be observed that the study of the doctrines took a place of pre-eminence in their ministry. These Spirit-directed activities of the early saints led to the phenomenal growth of the early Church. Apart from this, it brought about boldness, steadfastness, and growth (Daniel 11:32; Acts 4:19,20), to the extent that the whole of Jerusalem was filled with Christ’s doctrine (Act 5:28).
1. The Holy Bible - That the Holy Bible, consisting of 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New Testament, is the inspired Word of God. We take the Bible as final authority in all matters concerning Christian conduct and work. II Timothy 3:16,17; Proverbs 30:5,6; Revelation 22:18,19.
2. The Godhead - That the Godhead consists of three separate, distinct and recognizable personalities and qualities, perfectly united in one. The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost are different Persons in the Godhead, not merely three names for one Person. Matthew 3:16,17; II Corinthians13:14; Matthew 28:19,20.
3. The Virgin Birth of Jesus - The virgin birth of Jesus Christ, the only begotten Son of God. The crucifixion, death, burial and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ. Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25; Romans 1:4; I Corinthians 15:3,4.
4. The Fall of Man - The total depravity, sinfulness and guilt of all men since the Fall, rendering them subject to God’s wrath and condemnation. Psalm 51:5; Job 14:4; Romans 3:23; 5:12-17; Mark 7:21-23; Ephesians 2:1.
5. Repentance - That Repentance is a complete turning away from all sin and its deceitful pleasures, and that it is required of every sinner before he can truly and effectively believe in Jesus with saving faith. Proverb 28:13; Isaiah 55:7; Ezekiel 18:21-23; Mark 1:15; Luke 24:46,47; Acts 2:38; 3:19,21; II Corinthians 7:10; Hebrew 6:1-3.
6. Restitution - That Restitution is making amends for wrongs done against our fellowmen, restoring stolen things to their rightful owners, paying debts, giving back where one has defrauded, making confessions to the offended and apologising to those slandered, so as to have a conscience void of offence toward God and man. Genesis 20:1-8,14-18; Exodus 22:1-7; Leviticus 6:1-17; Numbers 5:6-8; 11 Samuel 12:1-6; Proverbs 6:31; Ezekiel 33:14-16; Matthew 5:23,24; Luke 19:8,9; Acts 23:1-5; 24:16; James 4:17-5:6.
7. Justification - That Justification (or Regeneration) is the act of God’s grace whereby one receives forgiveness and remission of sins, and is counted righteous before God, through faith in the atoning blood of Jesus, standing before God as though he had never sinned. Psalm 32:1,2; Isaiah 1:18; Micah 7:29; John 3:3-8; Acts 13:38,39; Romans 3:24-30; 4:6-16; 5:1,2; II Corinthians 5:17-21; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8,9; Titus 3:5; I Peter 1:23.
8. Water Baptism - That Water Baptism is essential to our obedience after reconciliation with God. Water Baptism is one immersion (not three), “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost”, as Jesus commanded. Matthew 28:19; 3:13-17; Mark 16:15; Acts 2:38,39; 19:1-6; Romans 6:4,5.
9. The Lord's Supper - That the Lord’s Supper was constituted by Jesus Christ so that all believers (all members of the family of God) might partake thereof regularly to “show the Lord’s death till He come.” The emblems used are “unleavened bread” and the juice of the “fruit of the vine”. Anyone who eats and drinks unworthily brings “damnation”, punishment and chastisement upon himself. Matthew 26:26-29; Luke 22:17-20; I Corinthians 11:23-30.
10. Sanctification - That Entire Sanctification is a definite act of God’s grace, subsequent to the New Birth, by which the believer’s heart is purified and made holy. It cannot be attained progressively by works, struggle or suppression, but it is obtained by faith in the sanctifying blood of Jesus Christ. Holiness of life and purity of heart are central to Christian living. Luke 1:74,75; John 17:15-17; I Thessalonians 4:3,7,8; 5:22-24; Ephesians 5:25-27; Hebrew 2:11; 10:10,14; 13:11; Titus 2:11-14; I John 1:7; Hebrew 12:14; I Peter 1:14-16.
11. Holy Ghost Baptism - That the Baptism in the Holy Ghost is the endowment with power from on high upon the sanctified believer. It is the “promise of the Father” and when one receives this “gift of the Holy Ghost”, it is accompanied by the initial evidence of speaking a language unlearned previously, referred to as speaking in tongues as the Spirit gives utterance. Matthew 3:11; Acts 1:8; Luke 3:16; 24:49; John 1:20-33; 7:37-39; 14:16,17,26; 15:26; 16:12-15; Acts 1:5-8; Mark 16:17; Acts 2:1-18; 10:44-46; 19:1-6. We do not teach or instruct people on how to speak in tongues: the Holy Spirit gives the utterance. We also stress the necessity of Purity before Power.
12. Redemption from Curse of the Law - That Redemption from the curse of the law, Healing of sickness and disease as well as continued Health are provided for all people through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. Exodus 15:26; Deuteronomy 7:15; Psalm 103:1-5; Proverbs 4:20-22; Isaiah 53:4,5; Matthew 8:16,17; I Peter 2:24; Mark 16:15-18; Luke 13:16; John 15:12-14; 10:10; Acts 10:38; James 5:14-16; I John 3:8; III John 2; Galatians 3:13,14.
13. Personal Evangelism - That Personal Evangelism is a God-given and God-ordained ministry for every believer. Jesus commanded, and God requires every believer to be a compassionate and faithful soulwinner, bringing others to Christ. Matthew 28:19,20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-49; John 17:18; Acts 1:8; 8:1-4; Psalm 126:5,6; Proverbs 11:30; Daniel 12:3; Ezekiel 13:17-21.
14. Marriage - That Marriage is binding for life. Monogamy is the uniform teaching of the Bible. Polygamy is contrary to the New Testament dispensation. No one has a right to divorce and remarry while the first companion lives. When a person becomes converted, necessary restitution, on this line, must be done without delay, if he has married wrongly. Genesis 2:24; Deuteronomy 7:1-4; Joshua 23:11-13; II Corinthians 6:14-18; Proverbs 31:10-31; Malachi 2:14,15; Romans 7:2,3; Ephesians 5:31-33; Matthew 5:31,32; 19:3-9; Mark 10:2-12; Luke 16:18; John 4:15-19; Genesis 20:3,7.
15. The Rapture - That the Rapture (commonly referred to as the first phase of stage of the SECOND COMING OF CHRIST) is the catching away from the earth of all living saints and all who died in the Lord. The Rapture will take place before the Great Tribulation, and it can happen any time from now. “In the twinkling of an eye”, without a moment’s warning, “the trumpet shall sound” “...and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” John 14:1-3; Luke 21:34-36; I Corinthians 15:51-58; I Thessalonians 4:13-18; 5:4-9; II Thessalonians 2:5-7; Philippians 3:11,20,21; I John 3:1-3.
16. The Resurrection of the Dead - That the Resurrection of the dead is taught in the Bible as clearly as the immortality of the soul. Every individual who has ever lived will be resurrected, some to honour and glory, and others to everlasting shame and contempt. Job 19:25-27; Psalm 71:20; Isaiah 26:19; Daniel 12:2; John 5:28,29; I Corinthians 15:12-57; I Thessalonians 4:13-16; Hebrews 6:1,2; Philippians 3:8-11; Revelation 20:4,6,12,13.
17. The Great Tribulation - That the Great Tribulation will occur after the rapture, and will be a time of terrible suffering on earth. It is also referred to as the time of Jacob’s Trouble. Matthew 24:21,22,29; Revelation 9:16; Mark 13:19; II Thessalonians 2:3-12; Revelation 13. During this time, the Antichrist will take possession of this world for a reign of terror. He will not be a system or organization, but a person — a supernatural, diabolical being, in the form of a man who will blaspheme and proclaim himself to be God. Daniel 6:23-35; II Thessalonians 2:7-12; Revelation 13:1-10. The Marriage Supper of the Lamb will take place above while the Tribulation continues on earth. Revelation 19:1-10.
18. The Second Coming of Christ - That the Second Coming of Christ will just be as literal as His going away, and He is coming to execute judgement upon the ungodly. He will also, then, set up His kingdom and reign on this present earth for a thousand years. Zechariah 14:3,4; Matthew 25:31-46; 26:64; Mark 13:24-37; II Thessalonians 1:7-10; 2:8; Jude 14,15.
19. The Millennial Reign of Christ - That Christ’s Millennial Reign is the 1,000 years’ literal reign of Jesus on earth, which will be ushered in by the coming of Jesus back to earth with ten thousands of His saints. At this time He will judge the nations that dwell upon the face of the earth. Jude 14,15; II Thessalonians 1:7-10. During this time the devil will be bound. Revelation 20:2,3. It will be a reign of peace and blessing. Isaiah 11:6-9; 65:25; Hosea 2:18; Zechariah 14:9-20; 2:2-4.
20. The Great White Throne Judgment - That the Great White Throne Judgment is when God finally judges all (the living and the dead, small and great) who have ever lived on the face of the earth, according to their works. This is after the Millennium. At this time the final Judgement known as the Great White Throne Judgment, will be held. All those from all ages, who have not yet been judged (believers’ judgement, as sinners’, was accomplished by Christ on the Cross — John 5:24; 3:17-19) will stand before God at this time. The devil and his angels are judged at this time also, and sent to the lake of fire for ever. Daniel 12:2,3; Matthew 10:15; 11:21-24; 12:41,42; John 5:28,29; Romans 2:15,16; 14:12; II Peter 2:9; Jude 6; I Corinthians 6:1-4; Acts 10:42; Revelation 20:11-15.
21. The New Heaven and the New Earth - That the New Heaven and the New Earth “wherein dwelleth righteousness” will be made by God and the redeemed shall dwell with God for ever. This present earth which has been polluted by sin will pass away after the Great White Throne Judgment. Psalm 102:25,26; Isaiah 51:6; 65:17; Matthew 5:18; 24:35; II Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1. No unclean thing shall be there. We shall know each other, our knowledge having been perfected. There will be no more curse upon anything. There will be no more night: the glory of the Lord will be the light thereof. Isaiah 66:22; II Peter 3:12,13; I Corinthians 13:12; I John 3:2,3; Revelation 21:1-7; 22:1-5.
22. Hell Fire - That Hell-fire is a place of everlasting punishment where sinners (all who do not have their names in the book of life) will suffer torments for ever and ever. It was prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41), but God has decreed that the wicked and those who forget Him and reject Christ, will also be cast there, because of their sin and neglect of His salvation. Psalm 9:17; Matthew 25:46; Luke 12:4,5; 16:19-31; Matthew 5:22,30; Mark 9:43-47; Revelation 14:10,11; 20:10,12-15
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