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.
Saturday, 5 January 2013
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
Wednesday, 11 April 2012
Christ's Atoning Blood
CHRIST’S ATONING BLOOD
Hebrews 9:15-28
Our text brings us to the consideration of one of the most important subjects in Scripture: atonement by the blood, escape from death through the death of an innocent substitute, redemption, remission of sins, and righteousness through the sacrifice and death of our perfect, pure, righteous Saviour. God’s covenant demanded that someone would die in our place. Christ gave His life so that we could “receive the promise of eternal inheritance.”From the time of the fall, it had been repeatedly demonstrated that an innocent one must bear our guilt and punishment before we could be pardoned and set free. This message of the means of redemption runs like a scarlet thread throughout the Scripture. Repentance alone never brought forgiveness: there must be atonement through the blood. The sacrifices of the Old Covenant were repeated so often until Christ came. He came as the final “Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world.” His Blood cleanses us from all sin.
1.REDEMPTION THROUGH HIS BLOOD Hebrews 9:15-17; 8:6; 1 Timothy 2:5,6; Romans 3:24,26; Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:18,19.
Redemption means to deliver by paying a price, to purchase in the market, to buy out of the market, to set free by paying a price.Redemption is by Blood and by power - Ex 14:30Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord has “...obtained eternal redemption for us” (Hebrews 9:12). “...He is the Mediator of the New Testament for the redemption of the transgressions” that we “might receive the promise of eternal inheritance” (Hebrews 9:15). By God’s standard of righteousness and justice, the soul that sins must die (Ezekiel 18:4). The only way a person could come to God was to have the penalty of his sins paid. This payment, Jesus has provided for everyone who turns away from sin and trusts Him (1 Peter 1:18,19). In so doing, He became the only Mediator, the only bridge between God and men (1 Timothy 2:5,6). Now, God is satisfied and man is pardoned when he puts his faith in the shed blood of Christ (Ephesians 1:7).
2.REMISSION THROUGH HIS BLOODHebrews 9:18-23; Exodus 24:6-8; Leviticus 17:11; 1 John 1:7; Revelation 1:5,6; 5:9,10.
“...And without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22). “For this is My Blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins” (Matthew 26:28). These verses in Hebrews chapter 9 emphasise three things which are related: a testament that demands death, forgiveness that demands blood, and judgment that demands a substitute. A will or a testament, does not take effect until the one who made it dies (Leviticus 17:11). The benefits and provisions of the will only come to the beneficiaries after the death of the testator.Remission of sins and the provisions of the New Covenant are now ours through the Blood of Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord (1 John 1:7; Revelation 1:5,6; 5:9,10). He had ratified the New Covenant through His own Blood, just as the Old Covenant was ratified by Moses with the blood of animals (Exodus 24:6-8).
3.RIGHTEOUSNESS THROUGH HIS BLOODHebrews 9:24-28; 7:25,27; 9:12,14; 10:10; Titus 2:13,14; John 14:3; 1 John 3:2,3.
“...Now once in the end of the world hath He appeared to PUT AWAY SIN by the sacrifice of Himself” (Hebrews 9:26). “And ye know that He was manifested to TAKE AWAY OUR SINS; and in Him is no sin” (1 John 3:5). He died for us, died in our place “...that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). We were to face the judgment of God for the sins we had committed. Through faith in Christ, our sins are forgiven and will never be remembered; our hearts are cleansed and we are made righteous. We thus pass from judgment unto life. Christ, through His death and blood, has obtained redemption, remission of sins and righteousness for us. Believe in Christ and be made righteous.
Hebrews 9:15-28
Our text brings us to the consideration of one of the most important subjects in Scripture: atonement by the blood, escape from death through the death of an innocent substitute, redemption, remission of sins, and righteousness through the sacrifice and death of our perfect, pure, righteous Saviour. God’s covenant demanded that someone would die in our place. Christ gave His life so that we could “receive the promise of eternal inheritance.”From the time of the fall, it had been repeatedly demonstrated that an innocent one must bear our guilt and punishment before we could be pardoned and set free. This message of the means of redemption runs like a scarlet thread throughout the Scripture. Repentance alone never brought forgiveness: there must be atonement through the blood. The sacrifices of the Old Covenant were repeated so often until Christ came. He came as the final “Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world.” His Blood cleanses us from all sin.
1.REDEMPTION THROUGH HIS BLOOD Hebrews 9:15-17; 8:6; 1 Timothy 2:5,6; Romans 3:24,26; Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:18,19.
Redemption means to deliver by paying a price, to purchase in the market, to buy out of the market, to set free by paying a price.Redemption is by Blood and by power - Ex 14:30Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord has “...obtained eternal redemption for us” (Hebrews 9:12). “...He is the Mediator of the New Testament for the redemption of the transgressions” that we “might receive the promise of eternal inheritance” (Hebrews 9:15). By God’s standard of righteousness and justice, the soul that sins must die (Ezekiel 18:4). The only way a person could come to God was to have the penalty of his sins paid. This payment, Jesus has provided for everyone who turns away from sin and trusts Him (1 Peter 1:18,19). In so doing, He became the only Mediator, the only bridge between God and men (1 Timothy 2:5,6). Now, God is satisfied and man is pardoned when he puts his faith in the shed blood of Christ (Ephesians 1:7).
2.REMISSION THROUGH HIS BLOODHebrews 9:18-23; Exodus 24:6-8; Leviticus 17:11; 1 John 1:7; Revelation 1:5,6; 5:9,10.
“...And without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22). “For this is My Blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins” (Matthew 26:28). These verses in Hebrews chapter 9 emphasise three things which are related: a testament that demands death, forgiveness that demands blood, and judgment that demands a substitute. A will or a testament, does not take effect until the one who made it dies (Leviticus 17:11). The benefits and provisions of the will only come to the beneficiaries after the death of the testator.Remission of sins and the provisions of the New Covenant are now ours through the Blood of Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord (1 John 1:7; Revelation 1:5,6; 5:9,10). He had ratified the New Covenant through His own Blood, just as the Old Covenant was ratified by Moses with the blood of animals (Exodus 24:6-8).
3.RIGHTEOUSNESS THROUGH HIS BLOODHebrews 9:24-28; 7:25,27; 9:12,14; 10:10; Titus 2:13,14; John 14:3; 1 John 3:2,3.
“...Now once in the end of the world hath He appeared to PUT AWAY SIN by the sacrifice of Himself” (Hebrews 9:26). “And ye know that He was manifested to TAKE AWAY OUR SINS; and in Him is no sin” (1 John 3:5). He died for us, died in our place “...that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). We were to face the judgment of God for the sins we had committed. Through faith in Christ, our sins are forgiven and will never be remembered; our hearts are cleansed and we are made righteous. We thus pass from judgment unto life. Christ, through His death and blood, has obtained redemption, remission of sins and righteousness for us. Believe in Christ and be made righteous.
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