DISCOVER YOUR PURPOSE
Bernie L. Wade, PhD. Barney P. Phillips, PhD.
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Life Track 101
LIFE 101™ PREPARED BY LIFE COLLEGE™ PUBLISHED BY YOUR LIFE PRESS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ©2014 ©2020 2ND PRINTING
Copyright © 2010 by Bernie L. Wade, PhD
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Contents
PREFACE ......................................................................................................................................................... 4 CHAPTER ONE - SIN AND SALVATION ......................................................................................................................... 8 How Do I Convert to Christianity? (How Do I Become a Christian? .................................................................... 9 What Must I Do to Gain Eternal Life ………………………………………………………………………………………………..…….……. 13
CHAPTER TWO – OBEDIENCE AND SUBMISSION ..................................................................................................... 18 Submitted to Jesus Christ ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 19
CHAPTER THREE– REPENTANCE & BAPTISM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Repentance ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 25 Water Baptism …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 30 Spirit Baptism ……………………… ...………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 38
CHAPTER FOUR – PLAN YOUR LIFE
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 43
Goal Setting and Planning ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 44
CHAPTER FIVE – DEALING WITH OFFENSE
………………………………………………………………………………………………..…… 50
Living Free From Offense ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 51
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Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
The Gospel of John 14:6
“If a man in the morning hear the right way, he may die in the evening without regret.” -
- CONFUCIUS
In Your quest for the answers to life you may feel like you need to take a pilgrimage to the Himalayas and climb a high mountain in search of one of those gurus who supposedly has all the answers to life. No doubt, you would ask him, ‘What is the meaning of life?’, or something similar. Life can certainly be challenging. Yet, it seems that finding someone to ask life’s questions is not really that difficult. Getting answers is not nearly as difficult as we may imagine. Rather it is our willingness to receive and act upon those answers that proves to be the real challenge. Page |5
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The late comedian, Jerry Clower, told a tale of a man clinging to a branch on the side of a cliff. The man was screaming for someone to help! He said, “Help! IIs there anyone up there!?!” Amazingly, he heard a voice say, “Have faith and just let go!” Seems simple enough, but the consequences of letting go seem anything but good. The man wanted a difference answer. So, the man said, “Is there anyone else up there?!” Obviously, answers alone are not enough. We must have the faith to act upon the advice given. Jesus Christ had a rich man seek him out to ask him such important questions. He came to Jesus, much like someone climbing to the top of some mountain, to ask Him a question. He hoped that he might attain eternal life by doing good deeds or something similar. “And behold, one came to Him and said, “Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may obtain eternal life?” 17 And He (Jesus Christ) said to him, “Why are you asking Me about what is good? There is only One who is good; but if you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” 18 He said to Him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not commit murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness. 19 Honor your father and mother; and You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 20 The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept; what am I still lacking?” 21 Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” 22 But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieved; for he was one who owned much property.”1 1
Matt. 19:16-22. The parallel passage is found in Mark 10:17-22 and Luke 18:18-23, listed at end of article.
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From this passage we can understand that asking the question and even getting the answer was not difficult. This man obtained the answer easily enough. The problem was, he was not happy with the answer. The first part that Jesus spoke about in His answer required obedience. The Second part required submission. Not getting the answer we like remains the same with most of us. It is not getting an answer that is the challenge, it is living the answer that presents our problems. The pursuit of answers is much easier than the obedience and submission to those answers. Obedience is merely following orders, commands, or instructions. Obedience does not guarantee a person's willingness to comply with orders. The wealthy man hoped for an answer to his liking. What Jesus Christ gave him was truth and Life! Submission is yielding to power or authority. In submission, a person willing gives love and respect. In our search for the answers to life we will learn that love and respect are critical to all our relationships, the quest for eternal life is such a relationship. Jesus Christ is not merely seeking for us to obey, He wants relationship. When I think about life, I generally think about advice and direction. In offering explanation to which people can relate, I often point them to the story of Alice in Wonderland. You probably know the story. 7-year-old Alice becomes bored while fishing with her sister. So, Alice decided to follow a strange rabbit. In the process Alice falls down the rabbit hole. Many people in life become bored and as a result find themselves in a situation not unlike Alice’s strange adventure. They feel like they have fallen or are in a hole. They feel like they are without direction and wonder how they got to that place in life. Alice has quite an adventure after she falls down the rabbit hole. Her boredom is temporarily resolved. Among those she meets on her journey is the Mad Hatter. The Mad Hatter is apparently trying to help this directionless girl. As they converse, the Mad Hatter asks Alice, “Where are you going little girl?” Alice replies, “I don’t know”. The Mad Hatter replies, “Then any road will get you there.”
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From this exchange between Alice and the Mad Hatter I have coined one of my principles for life. “If you don’t know where you are going, then any road will get you there!” ™2 Too often, we are directionless, with no plan, and seemingly no purpose. Our failure to plan is one of the many roads we take to ‘get us there’. Having a plan is not the ‘final answer’ but without one you can never really be sure where you are going or even where you have been. My prayer for you is that, on this journey we call life, you will find direction and purpose. I expect that these lessons will be some help to your journey. I want you to know where you are going and have a plan to get there! Blessings on your journey!
Bernie Bernie L. Wade, Sr., PhD is the Chancellor of Life College & Seminary (www.lifecollege.education). He is an educator, mentor, and teacher. He also serves as President of the International Circle of Faith (ICOF). (www.icof.net).
2
Reference. Bernie L. Wade, Sr. Quote. 1998. All Rights Reserved.
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CHAPTER 0NE
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HOW DO I CONVERT TO CHRISTIANITY? (How do I become a Christian?)
Acts 16:28 (NKJV) “But (Apostle) Paul called with a loud voice, saying, “Do yourself no harm, for we are all here.” 29 Then he called for a light, ran in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 And he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
"Life is wasted if we do not grasp the glory of the cross, cherish it for the treasure that it is, and cleave to it as the highest price of every pleasure and the deepest comfort in every pain. What was once foolishness to us—a crucified God—must become our wisdom and our power and our only boast in this world.” - John Piper
A man in a Greek city of Philippi asked a remarkably similar question as our topic. He asked the question of Apostles Paul and Silas. That is when this man asked, “What must I do to be saved?” (Acts Chapter 16, verse 30). We know at least three things about this man: 1. He was a jailer, 2. He was a pagan and 3. He was desperate. This man, we generally call The Philippian Jailer, was on the verge of suicide. Apostle Paul stopped him by simple offering that belief in Jesus Christ would save the man’s life. That fact that the man asks the question shows that he recognized his need of salvation. All of mankind is born with a basic need to find something that satisfies the longing in their heart. God put that eternal component in the DNA of all of us. This man, we affectionately call him the Philippian Jailer, saw only death for himself and his P a g e | 10
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family. He knew that he needed help. The fact that he asked the Apostles shows that he believed they had the answer. We must have an answer ready for those who seek Salvation, and that answer can only be found in Jesus Christ! The Philippian Jailer asked, “What must I do to be saved?” Remember: Christianity was new to the Jailer and his country. The Apostles had only arrived a few days earlier. It is evident that Jailer hoped for something more than what his pagan religion offered. Fortunately, the Apostles had the answer. The answer the Apostle gave was intended to free the man from his pagan religion and focus him on Jesus Christ, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved!” (Verse 31). The Scripture goes on to show how the man did believe and was converted. His conversion included his being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit. Then, the Jailer’s whole family also believed and were baptized in the water and in the Spirit. It is worthy of notice that the man’s conversion was based on faith (believing). He had to trust Jesus Christ and nothing else. The Jailer believed that Jesus Christ was the Son of God (“Lord”) and the promised Messiah. As Messiah, Jesus Christ fulfilled the Scriptural prophecies of the “Christ” or “Anointed One”. The Jailer’s faith also included a belief that Jesus died for the sin of mankind and resurrected from the dead! We know this because this is the message that Apostles Paul and Silas were preaching and teaching (Romans 10:9-10, I Corinthians 15: 1-4). In this study we are talking about conversion. To “Convert”, is literally “to turn”. When we turn toward one thing, we by necessity turn away from something else. In this instance, when we turn to Jesus Christ, we turn away from our sins or sinful nature. The Bible calls the turning from sin “repentance” and the turning to Jesus, “faith”. Repentance and Faith complement each other. In Thessalonians 1:9, both repentance and faith are indicated. “You turned to God from idols.” A Christ follower (Christian), who has a genuine conversion to Christianity, will leave behind their former ways and leave behind anything pertaining to false religion. Those who convert to Christianity believe that Jesus Christ is God manifested (made clearly visible) in the flesh. They know that Jesus Christ died for their sins and resurrected from the dead. And without controversy great is the [a]mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels,
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Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.3 Those who seek to convert agree that they are a sinner. Sinners need Salvation. The believer trusts (has faith) that only Jesus Christ can save them. When they turn from sin to Christ, God promises to save them from their sins and give them His Spirit. In other words, He agrees to come and live inside of them! This is how they become a new creature (or new creation). Christianity, in its true form, is not a religion. Christianity, according to the Bible, is a relationship where Jesus Christ becomes part of your life (the important part). Jesus Christ offers salvation to anyone who believes and trusts the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made on the cross. A person who converts to Christianity is receiving the gift that God offers and beginning a personal relationship with Jesus Christ that results in the forgiveness of sins. This give the promise of eternity with Jesus Christ after natural death here on earth. Encourage those who want to convert to Christianity to pray. Pray with them. Ask them if you can pray with them. If they answer, “Yes”, here is a simple prayer that you can offer to God. Encourage them to pray with you. Saying this prayer, or any other prayer, will not save you. It is only trusting in the Jesus Christ (to whom we pray) that can save you. This prayer is simply a way to express faith in Jesus Christ and thank Him for providing our salvation. “God, I know that I have sinned against You and deserve punishment. I am thankful that Jesus Christ took the punishment that I deserve so that through faith in Him I am forgiven! I place my trust in you for salvation. Thank you for your wonderful grace and forgiveness- the give of eternal life – Jesus Christ! Amen!” Once you have prayed this prayer you will need to be baptized in the water and the Spirit (Acts 1:5). It is important that you help new converts to connect with other believers. Those who are Christ followers are a Community! There is strength in Community! One of the easy ways to help is to invite new converts (or bring them) to church, bible study, teaching or just listening to Christian music. Let other believers know that you are committed follower of Jesus Christ. Invite others to dinner, fellowship or just hand out with those who share your faith in Jesus Christ.
3
1 Timothy 3:16. New King James Version
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CHAPTER ONE - LESSON ONE 1. What did the Apostles do after the Jailer decided not to commit suicide? (Page 4)
2.
What does it mean to believe? (Page 4)
3. What does convert mean? (Page 4). ____________________________________________________________ 4. What is repentance? (Page 4) ____________________________________________________________ 5. What is faith? (Page 5) ____________________________________________________________ 6. What is Christianity in its true form? (Page 5) ____________________________________________________________ 7. What is the one thing we can offer to those who wish to convert and become followers of Jesus Christ? (Page 5) ____________________________________________________________ 8.
Who is Jesus Christ? (Page 4)
9.
What does praying accomplish? (Page 5)
10.
Who has the power to save us? (Page 4)
11.
APPICATION AND REFLECTION
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WHAT MUST I DO TO GAIN ETERNAL LIFE?
Now behold, on came to him and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thinks shall I do that I may have eternal life? (Matthew 19:16).
"Our greatest fear should not be of failure but of succeeding at things in life that don’t really matter." - Francis Chan
The goal of religion is to point adherents toward God. This study is of Christianity which finds its basis in the Bible. A Christian is a follower of Jesus Christ. There are many good books, but Christians believe that the Bible is their textbook. From this book they derive everything that they believe. When we speak of Christianity, we are speaking of those truths that are in the Bible. Primary to this discussion is doctrine. Doctrine is truth lifted from Scripture and dedicated to purpose. Believe: means to have a firm faith. To have a firm conviction as to the goodness, efficacy, or ability of something. John 3:15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have eternal life. I John 5:13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. P a g e | 14
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Apostle Paul says believe in your heart that Jesus rose from the dead and then confess that Jesus is Lord. The mistake that people often make is not understanding that when they confess Jesus Christ as Lord, they relinquish their right to be their own boss. Accepting Jesus as your personal savior is not a Biblically accurate. Verbally declaring that you have switched your allegiance to Jesus Christ is Biblical. The answer is not about just obedience; it is about submission! See: Matt 19:16-22 and Luke 10:25-37 Jesus counsels the Rich Young Ruler Now behold, one came to him and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thinks shall I do that I may have eternal life? (Verse 16). So, He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the Commandments.”
What are the Commandments? You shall not murder Most Christians have been led to believe that Scripture forbids the taking of life; that is to kill. They have been told that Scripture forbids the taking of life under any circumstance, even in self-defense. If this were true, why would God tell the nation of Israel (in Ancient times), “Thou shalt not kill”, but also tell them to kill their enemies? This would seem to be a glaring contradiction. Unless, God never said, “Thou shalt not kill.” Even though Bible translations may use the word ‘kill’ in several places, is this what the Original Hebrew and Greek Texts say? Or do we have some translation errors? Let us investigate. In Exodus 20:13 we have the Fifth Commandment, “Thou shall not kill’. Look at the word ‘kill’. In the Hebrew, the word for kill is ‘Ratsach’, which means: Murder, i.e. - to Murder, a Murderer; to dash to pieces. Thus, Exodus 20:13 reads, “Thou shall not MURDER”. Next, look to Exodus 21:12, “He that smitten a man so that he did shall be surely P a g e | 15
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put to death.” Here, the Hebrew word translated ‘Smiteth’ is “Nakah”, which means: Murder, to slay or to slaughter. Exodus 21:12 actually reads, “He that smites a man so that he dies, shall surely be put to death. You shall not commit adultery Adultery is when a married person cheats on his or her spouse, or another person commits an infidelity with another married person. You shall not steal Many human laws have been made to try to protect personal possessions and property from those who would seek to take them for themselves. The intent of God’s Eighth Commandment goes deeper. Stealing can take many forms, including cheating someone or even delaying paying someone what you owe him or her: “You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another. … You shall not cheat your neighbor nor rob him. The wages of him who is hired shall not remain with you all night until morning.” (Leviticus 19:11-13). God Gives us other Commands to Obey ▪ You shall not bear false witness ▪ Honor your father and your mother ▪ You shall love your neighbor as yourself
The Parable of the Good Samaritan “And behold a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?” So, he answered and said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” And He (Jesus) said to him, “You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.,” P a g e | 16
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Then Jesus answered and said: “A certain man when down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing wounded him, and departed leaving him half dead. Now by chance certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. Likewise, a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came, and looked, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. So, he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper and said to him, “Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you. So, which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?” And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”4 50 days after the Passover, we find the followers of Jesus Christ at Jerusalem. This act of great faith performed by more than 120 persons is recorded in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles.
4
Luke 10:25
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CHAPTER ONE - LESSON TWO 1.
What is doctrine?
2.
Who was the Good Samaritan?
3.
What is written in the law?
4. What kind of teacher did they call Jesus? ____________________________________________________________ 5. We are commanded to honor whom? ____________________________________________________________ 6.
Who is your neighbor?
7. Explain Leviticus 19:11-13. ____________________________________________________________ 8.
What is the story of the Good Samaritan about?
9.
What are we to learn from the story of the Good Samaritan?
10.
How many days after Passover till Pentecost?
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CHAPTER TWO
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SUBMITTED TO JESUS CHRIST
“I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees, and laws’ then you will live.” Deuteronomy 30:16 Now the things done may not be evil or improper; they in fact may be good and godly (such as reading the Bible, praying, worshiping, preaching); but if they are not undertaken in a spirit of complete reliance upon the Holy Spirit, then the flesh is the source of all. The old creation is willing to do anything-even to submit to God - if only it is permitted to live and to be active! ◼ Watchman Nee
The Meaning of Submission Obedience means to comply with the orders or instructions of another person. Obedience has in its meaning submission. In the Greek New Testament, the English word is expressed by the word hupotasso. It literally means “to be under, to arrange under, to subordinate, to subject oneself.”5
5
Joseph Henry Thayer, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament, Complete and Unabridged (Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1889) p. 645. P a g e | 20
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Therefore, to submit is to place oneself under another. Gene Getz remarked of submission, “In Scripture it appears in contexts describing servanthood, humility, respect, reverence, honor, teachableness, and openness. All these for one basic purpose--obedience to Jesus Christ.”6 “One of the Greek terms for obedience in the Bible conveys the idea of positioning oneself under someone by submitting to their authority and command. ... Thus, biblical obedience to God means to hear, trust, submit and surrender to God and his Word. Most of those who claim to be Christians are such in name only. They lack a level of submission to God that is expected. “Submitting to God's ways means to humble yourself. ... It is crucial to realize that since Christ is perfection, we fall short of God's standard everyday through sin. He is deserving of praise. Only through the grace of God are we able to be saved. Without Jesus Christ, we would get what we deserve: death. Along with humbleness, it means recognizing that it’s not all about you. Selflessness is key. It is necessary to understand that the reason why we are here isn’t for your glory but his. Therefore, who are we to say that we have the authority to determine our life? Last time I checked,
6
Gene A. Getz, Building Up One Another, (Wheaton, Il: Victor Books, 1994), p. 100.
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God’s the one that is in control and created us into existence. If we didn’t have him, we wouldn’t be here in the first place.”7 “Submission to God means saying no for His purposes. Letting go of your desires may be quite difficult. Especially if both options could give you a chance to glorify God. Though it hurts now, and you may doubt His logic, temporary discomfort is okay because at the end of it all, it will be completely worth it. As he told the prophet Jeremiah when he questioned God’s calling for his life:”8
“I know the plans I have for you; plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). Furthermore, being vulnerable is an automatic for genuine submission to the Lord. There’s no turning back. You are going to be feel fully exposed, an open book. Your heart will be examined. The temptations and sins will be put into the light. Vulnerability places you into a position where you are fully putting your life into his hands -- giving him all your burdens, anxieties, 7 8
Bible Study Guide. Submission and Obedience. Dr. Geoffrey V. Guns. Copyright 2019 Ibid. Bibles Study Guide. Guns.
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and fears and trusting him with them. Besides, he is omniscient… so why are you still trying to hide? Ultimately, it is trusting that at the end of the road, everything will be okay. It is that hope that he will someday use this to grow you spiritually into the person that God made you to be. 9 We asked Bishop Teklemariam Gezahagne, the leader of the Apostolic Church of Ethiopia, “How do you get God to answer your prayer?” He answered, “If you ask in the flesh you will not receive it because the flesh is the enmity of God.” (He used the Scripture reference below). “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who[a] do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh, 4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be [b]carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the [c]carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.”10 “I beseech[a] you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your [b]reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”11 9
https://www.theodysseyonline.com/submit-to-god Romans 8:1-9. NKJV. 11 Romans 12:1-2. NKJV. 10
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CHAPTER TWO - LESSON ONE 1. Read Luke 22:39-46. What did the experience of Jesus in Gethsemane teach us about submission? ____________________________________________________________ 2. What are two things that we can learn from Jesus about submitting to the will of God?
3. Read Ephesians 5:21; Galatians 5:13; Philippians 2:3. How is submission to be demonstrated among believers?
4. Why is it so difficult to practice these teachings from the New Testament regarding submission? ____________________________________________________________ 5. Read Philippians 2:6-9; 2 Corinthians 8:9. What do we learn about the attitude of Jesus toward submission to God? ____________________________________________________________ 6. Read Mark 8:34-39. What did Jesus teach about admission into the ranks of His disciples? ____________________________________________________________ 5. Read Romans 13:1-8. What is the believer’s responsibility in the area of spiritual and secular authority?
6. What are areas of your life that you must submit to God? ___________________________________________________________
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There are 3 actions in this chapter: Step 1 – Repentance Step 2 – Water Baptism Step 3 – Spirit Baptism
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REPENTANCE
“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” Acts 3:19 "The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, 'O God, forgive me,' or 'Help me.'” - Billy Graham
Repentance (metanoia) called for throughout the Bible is a summons to a personal, absolute, and ultimate unconditional surrender to God as Sovereign. Though it includes sorrow and regret, it is more than that. ... In repenting, one makes a complete change of direction (180° turn) toward God.12 Repentance is about obedience, submission, and transformation to God. “The doctrine of repentance as taught in the Bible is a call to persons to make a radical turn from one way of life to another. The repentance (metanoia) called for throughout the Bible is a summons to a personal, absolute, and 12
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Repentance
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ultimate unconditional surrender to God as Sovereign. Though it includes sorrow and regret, it is more than that. It is a call to conversion from selflove, self-trust, and self-assertion to obedient trust and self-commitment to now live for God and his purposes.”13 Repentance is where we ask God to forgive our sins. We do this by praying to Jesus Christ (God Manifested in the Flesh).14 We acknowledge that we are sinful beings. We ask Jesus Christ to forgive all our sins (both of commission and omission). Then, we live our lives in a completely changed manner. We also work to restore or make restitution to those we have wronged.
What is Repentance? ✓ Acknowledging the sin. ✓ Confessing the sin. ✓ Asking forgiveness. ✓ Turning away from the sin. ✓ Restoring the wrong done. We have all broken God’s law and sinned (Romans 3:23; 1 John 1:8, 10). Only appealing to His grace and forgiveness can absolve us of sin. God desires to forgive our sins and extend grace to a heart that repents. The scripture says He removes our sins as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12). We have redemption through His blood, which forgives sins, and the richness of His grace (Ephesians 1:7). “Apostle Paul gives us the difference between someone who is truly repentant of sin and someone who is just sorry they were caught. 2 Corinthians 7:8-13 explains this and lists seven signs of true repentance. Paul said there is a difference between Godly sorrow and worldly sorrow. Worldly sorrow brings death and destruction, but Godly sorrow brings repentance and salvation (v. 10). Godly sorrow owns up to the sin and wants to repent of it to God and those it’s hurt, make it right, and make 13 14
Stagg, Frank. New Testament Theology. Broadman Press, 1962. ISBN 0-8054-1613-7, pp. 118-119 I Timothy 3:16.
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steps to never do it again. A repentant heart chooses Christ because it knows how horrible the sin was against God and how horrible God’s justice against that sin will be. So how do you know you or someone else has truly repented and honestly trying to get out of that sin? How can you begin to trust them again?
7 signs or fruits of repentance found in 2 Corinthians 7:11. ➢ First is earnestness. They are aggressively pursuing righteousness. They are sincere about getting free from sin and aren’t justifying or arguing their case any longer. They are genuine and sincere about being more Christ-like. ➢ Second, they want to clear themselves. This isn’t paying for their own sin; they don’t want to hide their sin, but have it removed at all costs. They are an open book about the sin and willing to do whatever it takes to ensure it is gone. ➢ Thirdly, is indignation -- anger at sin. Their attitude toward sin is one of hate. Sin isn’t wrong because they were found out or someone told them but because they know it hurt their relationship with God and God Himself. They know sin is a real killer, as it killed Jesus on the cross. ➢ Fourthly, they have alarm or fear. Their eyes are open to keep from sinning again. They have set up boundaries and precautions. They have a holy fear of God’s wrath towards sin as well. The good news is Jesus satisfied God’s wrath on the cross and our sins can be forgiven. ➢ Fifthly, is a longing or desire to be in perfect relationship with God. They want to have a rich, full, growing relationship with Jesus. They are quick to repent and look more and more like Christ in their character. ➢ Number six is zeal or passion to serve and live for Him.
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➢ Lastly, they desire to avenge sin. They know they can’t pay for their own sins, but they desire to make all wrongs right. These signs, Paul says, leads us to “being innocent in the matter” (end of verse 12). It isn’t pretending the sin never happened but resting in the blood, suffering, and cleansing work of Jesus death on the cross. Repentance also means living a life that hates and fights against sin to live zealously and purely for Christ.”15
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the [k]remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
15
Stephen Harrison. Associate pastor of Family Church at White Hall. July 12, 2013
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CHAPTER THREE - LESSON ONE
1. Repentance is acknowledging the ______. Then we must __________ the sin and ask __________. Additionally, we need to turn ______ from the sin. 2. Also, we should restore the ______ done. 3. We recognize 7 steps of Repentance. The first step of repentance is ___________. 4. When we repent, we ______________ pursuing righteousness. 5. We are ________ about getting free from sin. We do not argue or justify. 6. The second step of repentance is that we want to ___________. We also do not want _________________________________________. 7. Indignation is ______ at sin. Their attitude toward sin is __________. 8. Sin isn’t wrong because we were _________. Sin is a real ______. 9. To keep a repentant life, we set up ___________ and _________. 10.
Fifthly, is a longing or desire to be in perfect relationship with
God. They want to have a rich, full, growing relationship with Jesus. They are quick to repent and look more and more like Christ in their character. 11.
________, and be __________ in the name of ______ ______
for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 12.
For the _______ is to you and to your _________, and to all
who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.� 13.
Repentance is about __________, _________ and _________
to God.
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WATER BAPTISM
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” Act 2:38
Faith does not eliminate questions. But faith knows where to take them." - Elisabeth Elliot
What is Water Baptism? Water baptism is based on obedience to the direction of Jesus Christ and His Apostles (Matthew 28:18 & 19, Acts 2:38 &39). Water baptism is an external and visible sacrament symbolizing an internal and invisible experience. It is an outward, tangible, symbolic act which signified and manifests dedication to the Kingdom of God (Kingdom of Heaven). It is an act not just of obedience but one that will lead us to submission to Jesus Christ. Immersion in water is for someone who has received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit (Holy Ghost) and/or a person who has already acknowledged the Lord Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Christian Baptism is administered upon the authority of a New Testament believer under the authority of Jesus Christ. The Gospel, according to Mark, introduces the public work of Jesus with the statement, “In those days Jesus came from
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Nazareth to Galilee and was Baptized by John in the Jordan (River).” 16
John as we know, was a remarkable man, a new prophet after there had been no prophet for a long time. John appeared in the wilderness, declared that the kingdom of God was near and dipped beneath the waters of the Jordan River all who wished to prepare for the Kingdom of God. And so, it was that Jesus himself too, came and was baptized by John. Evidently, those who became followers of Jesus also were baptized. For this we have the statement of John 3:22, “After this Jesus and his disciples went into the land of Judea and there, he remained with them and baptized.
The Authority for the Observance of Water Baptism ✓ Commanded by Christ. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 28:19). In giving this “Great Commission” to the disciples, Jesus Christ commanded they go into all the world and make disciples of the nations and that such as become disciples should be baptized. Here we have the prescription given to the Disciples by Jesus Christ. ✓ Enjoined by an Apostle. The Apostles who received the prescription from Jesus Christ then filled the script in this manner, “Then Peter said unto them, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”17 Not only did Apostle Peter give this command but he did so in the presence of all the other Apostles.18
16
Mark 1:9 NKJV. Acts Chapter 2. Verses 38 and 39. 18 See Acts Chapters 1 & 2. 17
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✓ Doctrine. Remember: Doctrine is Truth lifted from Scripture and dedicated to purpose. Acts Chapter 2 verses 38 & 39 are companion verses to Matthew 28:18-19. Neither can stand alone. You need both to establish Bible doctrine. ✓ Practiced by the Apostolic (New Testament) church. As Philip went out in his ministry of evangelizing the people who believed his message were baptized. “But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the Kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.”19 ✓ When Philip had dealt with the Ethiopian, the eunuch saw the fitness of baptism. “And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water and the Eunuch said, “See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch: and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing.”20
19 20
Acts 8:12 NKJV. Acts 8:36-39. NKJV
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✓ Ananias, who was sent to Saul after the Lord appeared to Saul on the road to Damascus, baptized Saul.21 ✓ When the middle wall of partition was broken down between Jews and Gentiles, Peter and Cornelius having been providentially brought together, the Holy Spirit came upon Cornelius and his household as He had come at Pentecost. Peter, therefore, issued, the command and Cornelius and his household should be baptized.22
Who Ought to Be Water Baptized? Everyone who has really been forgiven of his sins should be baptized. We must confess Christ before the World!23 The Significance of Water Baptism Baptism typifies death, burial, and resurrection. Apostle Paul in his letters to the Romans, said in plain language, “We are buried with him by baptism into death: that like Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.”24
21
Acts 9:18. NKJV. Acts 10:47-48. NKJV. 23 Matthew 10:32-33. 24 Romans 6:4-5. NKJV. 22
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Water baptism signifies the inner experience of the believer in relation to Jesus Christ the Redeemer and Savior made effective by the Holy Spirit. This inner experience includes: o Union with Christ. By the act of faith, the believer is engrafted into Christ (submission).25 By virtue of this vital and organic union the very life of the Son of God flows into the believer. Christ is the true Vine. Believers are the branches. The life and fruitfulness of the branches are dependent upon the life of the Vine flowing into the branch. John 15:4-5. Separation of the branch from the Vine issues in death. John 15:6. Union with Christ is eternal life. John 17:3. This foundational truth makes clear the reason why the Believer is to be baptized when he believes. Baptism becomes to him the sign and seal of his vital union with Jesus Christ. o The removal of the believer’s sins through the sacrifice of Christ’s death. Romans 6:4-5. Christ took the place of the sinner in bearing the penalty of God’s broken Law (man broke God’s law). Galatians 3:13; 4:4. o So complete is the believer’s identification with Jesus Christ that when Christ died on the cross, the believer’s submission signifies that he or she died with him. Galatians 2:20. Romans 8:1. Baptism to the believer therefore symbolizes the cancellation of our guilt. This is the absolute and complete removal of the penalty of his sins through the blood of Christ. o Identification with Christ in the reality and power of His resurrection life. Romans 6:4-5. The believer is free from the penalty of sin and united with Christ in His resurrection life, possesses the dynamic which issues in the overcoming victorious life. o It is the very life of the Son of God expressing himself through the believer. He is, therefore, no longer held down and dragged under by the power of his old nature but lives the overcoming life in resurrection power of Jesus Christ.26 25 26
Galatians 3:26-27. Galatians 3:27. NKJV.
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o Baptism signifies the Enthronement of Jesus Christ as the Lord of the believer’s life (total submission). Christ’s commission was to the effect that the disciples, which were made through the preaching of the Gospel, were to be, baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Christ who holds ALL POWER in heaven and earth!27 This clearly implies that they were to be brought under the authority of God by invoking the name of Jesus Christ. o Those thus brought under the divine authority were to be taught the things which Christ had commanded. Matthew 28:20. o Because of ignorance of the meaning of water baptism, many Christians have been deprived of the blessings of this ordinance.
27
Matthew 28:18.
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CHAPTER THREE - LESSON TWO 1. Water baptism is a _____________ and ____________ rite symbolizing a _____________ and ______________ experience. It is an outward, tangible, symbolic act which signifies and manifest dedication to the Kingdom of God. 2. Water Baptism is ________________ in _______________ of a person who has already accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior, and is administered upon the authority of a New Testament church. 3. The Gospel, according to Mark, introduces the public work of Jesus with the statement, “In those days _____________ came from Nazareth to Galilee and was ____________________ by John in the Jordan (river).” 4. John (the Baptist), as we know, was a remarkable man, a new prophet after there had been no prophet for a long time, who appeared in the wilderness, declared that the kingdom of God was near, and _________________ the ________________ of the Jordan River all who wished to prepare for the Kingdom of God. And so, it was that Jesus also came and was baptized. 5. Those who became ______________ of Jesus also were baptized. We have the statement in John 3:22, “After this _____________ and his ____________ went into the land of Judea; there He remained with them and ____________. 6. The Authority for the Observance of Baptism is __________________ by __________________. 7. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing the in the name of the _____________, and of the ___________ and of the ___________________.” Matthew 28:19. 8. In giving the great commission to the disciples, Jesus Christ commanded that they go into all the world and make disciples of the nations and that such as become disciples should be ________________. 9. Enjoined by a ______________________. 10. “Then Peter said unto them, Repent and be baptized everyone one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the _______ _______. (Acts. 2:39). 11. _________________ by the Apostolic church. As Philip went out of his ministry of evangelizing, the people who believed his message were baptized. “But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, ____________ were ________________, both men and women.” Acts 8:12. P a g e | 37
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12. When Philip had dealt with the Ethiopian, the Eunuch saw the fitness of baptism. “And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain _____________: and the ___________ said, See here is water; what doth ____________ me to be baptized? 13. And Philip said, if thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and _____________ went ________________ the ____________, both Philip and the Eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come _____________ of the _________________, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the Eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing.” Acts 8:36-39. 14. Ananias, who was sent to Saul after the Lord appeared to him, ___________ Saul. Acts 9:18. 15. Who Ought to Be Baptized? _________________ who has really been forgiven of his sins should be _______________. We must profess Christ before the World! Matthew 10:32-33. 16. The Significance of Water Baptism _______________ typifies __________________, ________________, and _______________________. 17. Paul in his letter to the Romans, said in plain language, “We are buried with him by _____________________ into death: that like as Christ as raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.” Romans 6:4-5. 18. Water baptism signifies the inner experience of the believer in relation to Jesus Christ the Redeemer and Savior made effective by the Holy ____.
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SPIRIT BAPTISM
When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided (individualized) tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Acts 2:1-4).
"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose." - Jim Elliot
At the writing of this (2020), Brandon Lake has a popular song called, I Need a Ghost. Brandon has rightly captured the very essence of the heart of God toward us. We must have Him! He wants relationship with us! His Spirit (his Ghost) needs to take up residence in our lives. Those who question the need of the Holy Spirit miss the whole imprimatur of the coming of Jesus Christ to this earth. From the Beginning it is evident that God knew that we needed help. John writes that to meet that need the Word (God) became Flesh (speaking of Jesus Christ).28 God’s plan to bring us hope is foretold in a plethora of Scriptures from what we call the Old Testament. The Prophet Malachi foretold of the coming of Jesus Christ as the Father turning His heart toward his children.29 God planned to come to our rescue and restore the intimacy of relationship with Him. A relationship that was lost due to sin in 28 29
The Gospel of John Chapter 1. Malachi Chapter 4.
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the Garden of Eden. Jesus Christ makes it noticeably clear that the purpose of His mission was to send the Comforter (Holy Ghost) to us. In the Gospel of John, we can read that Jesus Christ foretold of the coming of the Holy Ghost and that this comforter would not be an “it” but a “HE”. He would send the Comforter in His name (Jesus Christ). We must realize that the promise of the Holy Spirit (Holy Ghost) is a life changing promise to bring us comfort. Jesus said: “But the Helper (Comforter), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” (John 14:26)
Who is the Holy Ghost (Spirit)? Some may ask ‘What is the Holy Spirit’, but the Holy Spirit is not a what it is a who. So then, Who is the Holy Ghost? The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God. It is not all of God but just the part that manifests presence in your life. Just as Jesus Christ was the manifestation of God, the Holy Spirit is how God manifests His presence in and through us. ➢ The Holy Spirit has feelings. He can become sad or angry and others can insult him.30 ➢ The Holy Spirit has intentions, shows willfulness and discretion, loves, communicates, testifies, teaches, and prays.31
How Do I Get the Holy Ghost? Some are confused about receiving the Holy Spirit because they are don’t understand that the Spirit of God is a promise to those who are obedient. Apostle Peter’s commission to Repent, be baptized also included the promise of receiving the Holy Spirit!32 Amazing. God has promised if you obey this commission (we call it the Great Commission) He will come and take residence in your life! 30
See Is. 63:10, Mt. 12:31, Acts 7:51, Eph 4:30 and Hebrews 10:29 Neh. 9:20, Jn. 15:26, Acts 13:2, Rm. 8:26, 27 & 15:30, I Co. 12:11. 32 Acts. Chapter 2. Also See Matthew Chapter 28. 31
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There is no scriptural reason saying that receiving the Holy Spirit can't be immediate. Simply ensure that you are practicing repentance and are baptized, and then receiving the Holy Spirit is guaranteed by God.
What Is Receiving the Holy Ghost Like? One person described his experience, “Before I received the Holy Ghost, I had tried alcohol and nearly every drug imaginable. I found nothing but despair. I was so despondent and depressed that I just wanted to die. When I got the Holy Ghost, I found something that I cannot even describe. I found joy that even 20 years later I cannot explain!” The Holy Spirit intercedes for believers. Sometimes we do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans and words that we cannot express. The Holy Spirit guides believers into truth. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of guilt. The Holy Spirit comforts us in times of affliction and hardship. The Holy Spirit cleanses, sanctifies and justifies us. The Holy Spirit restrains evil. The Holy Spirit refreshes us daily with hope and love. The Holy Spirit reminds us of important things we forget.
Will I Speak in Tongues When I Receive the Holy Ghost? As one minister explained, “It comes with the package!” Speaking in tongues is not the baptism in the Holy Spirit, but it is what happens when as you are baptized in the Spirit and the Holy Spirit becomes an important resource to help you continue, as Apostle Paul says, . . . “keep on being filled with the Holy Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18).33 Speaking in tongues is the Spirit of God manifesting His presence in you. He is not to be feared – He is to be desired.
33
The Holy Spirit and You by Dennis and Rita Bennet. Pages 64–65
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The Holy Spirit: ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢
➢ ➢ ➢ ➢
Shows you things to come and is our teacher (Jn 14:26). Will help you see where you are at in life, your seasons of life, etc.34 Brings conviction, restores hope, and heals. Guides you to your destiny and purpose. Gives you peace, joy, hope, self-control, power, strength (Gal 5:22). Gives you comfort and understanding (John 14:16-17). Will teach you all things.” Jn. 14:26. Equips us.35for supernatural ministry.36 Empowers us and gives us authority. Acts 1:8 Removes the hindrances (past and present) from our lives so we may be free. Then we can be all God has called us to be. Sin imprisons us, but if we live by the Holy Spirit we are freed from sin. (Gal. 5: 16). Unifies us. 1 Cor. 12:13. Eph. 4. Sends us. Acts 13:2 Prays for us. Romans 8:26, 27. Adopts us as children of God.
“Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. You received the Spirit of adoption. by him we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit himself testifies that we are God’s children.” Rom. 8: 14-16 Some people ask if they NEED the Holy Spirit (Ghost). It seems like the wrong question. The better question seems to be, “Why you would want to live without it!? Look at the benefits!
34
Acts 11: 11,12 “Paul and companions tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit would not allow them.” Acts 16: 6,7 “Jesus was led by the Spirit.” Lk. 4: 1 35
“I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. young men will see visions, old men will dream dreams.” Acts 2: 17,18 “I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven.” Rev. 4: 2 36 “To one is given through the Spirit - wisdom, to another knowledge, to another faith, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing of spirits, to another speaking in tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All of these are the work of the Spirit.” 1Cor. 12: 8-11 P a g e | 42
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CHAPTER THREE - LESSON THREE 1.
The Holy Spirit is the ______ of God.
2.
Speaking in tongues is the _______ of God ___________ His
presence. 3.
Jesus was led by the _________. (Luke 4:1).
4.
God _______ us as _________ of God.
5.
The _____ ______ shows you things to come and is our teacher.
6.
The Holy Spirit will help you see where you are at in life, your
________ of life, etc. 7.
The _______ _______ brings conviction, restores hope, and heals.
8.
The _______ _______ guides you to your destiny and purpose.
9.
The Holy Spirit gives you peace, joy, hope, self- _______, power,
strength (Gal 5:22).’ 10.
The Holy Spirit gives _______ and understanding (John 14).
11.
The ____ _____ will teach you all things.� Jn. 14:26.
12.
The Holy Spirit removes the __________ (past and present) from our
lives so we may be _____. 13.
Sin _________ us, but if we live by the _____ ______ we are freed
from sin. (Gal. 5: 16).
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CHAPTER FOUR
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GOAL SETTING AND PLANNING
“For I know the plans I have you declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.” Jer. 29:11
“As we journey through this life - through the easy times and the painful times - God is fashioning us into people who are like his Son, Jesus. That means God is in the process of changing what we desire far more than he is in the process of giving us what we desire.” - Charles Stanley In this study we will examine your life plan and assist you with creating goals and a plan for your life. Sadly, most people do not have a written plan for their life. According to Brian Tracy, less than 3 percent of people have written goals. You can change that today. Previously, we talked about Alice in Wonderland. From her exchange with the Mad Hatter we coined this quote:
“If you don’t know where you are going, then any road will get you there!”
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Without a plan you don’t know where you are going. God did not intend for you to just exist. His will for you is that you would prosper.
For I know the plans I have you declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future. Jer. 29:11 There are 4 primary areas of your life:
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Personal Vocational Spiritual Educational
In each of these areas (Personal, Vocational, Spiritual and Educational) you need to break down your goals into these sub-categories: Short term (less than 1 year). Midterm 1-2 years and Long Term (more than 3 years). Start with four sheets of paper (one for each area). Without written goals you only have thoughts. Written goals give you a ‘map’ to follow. Written goals are like a road map for your life. The goals are your plan and in each goal you should not only have the time frame but the plan that you must get there. Some goals may change, some parts of the plan may change but this road map gives you direction.
Students do a Goal Setting exercise by writing some of their goals and their expected time frame and plan for achievement. Then, share your goals with a counselor, trusted friend or if you are brave, a small group.
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The Seven Baby Steps - Begin Your Journey to Financial Peace37 Author and Teacher Dave Ramsey has developed an excellent way to focus on your financial goals. His plan helps you get out of debt the same way you learned to walk—one step at a time. Here's the process: Baby Step 1 Save $1,000 to start an Emergency Fund. An emergency fund is for those unexpected events in life that you can’t plan for: the loss of a job, an unexpected pregnancy, a faulty car transmission, and the list goes on and on. It’s not a matter of if these events will happen; it’s simply a matter of when they will happen. Without a plan – you plan to fail! Baby Step 2 Pay off all debt using the Debt Snowball. List your debts, excluding the house, in order. The smallest balance should be your number one priority. Don’t worry about interest rates unless two debts have similar payoffs. If that’s the case, then list the higher interest rate debt first. Baby Step 3 3 to 6 months of expenses in savings. Once you complete the first two baby steps, you will have built serious momentum. But don’t start throwing all your “extra” money into investments quite yet. It’s time to build your full emergency fund. Baby Step 4 Invest 15% of household income into Roth IRAs and pre-tax retirement. When you reach this step, you’ll have no payments—except your house—and a fully funded emergency fund. Now it’s time to get serious about building wealth. 37
http://www.daveramsey.com/new/baby-steps/
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Baby Step 5 College funding for children. By this point, you should have already started Baby Step 4—investing 15% of your income—before saving for college. Whether you are saving for you or your child to go to college, you need to start now. Baby Step 6 Pay off home early. Now it’s time to begin chunking all your extra money toward the mortgage. You are getting closer to realizing the dream of a life with no house payments. Baby Step 7 Build wealth and give! It’s time to build wealth and give like never before. Leave an inheritance for future generations and bless others now with your excess. It's really the only way to live!
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CHAPTER FOUR – LESSON ONE
1.
IF you break it down into ____ _____you can do anything.
2.
If you don’t _____ where ___ are going, then any ____ will get
you there. 3.
What percent of people have written goals?
4.
What are the 4 Primary areas of your life?
a.
________________________________
b.
________________________________
c.
________________________________
d.
________________________________
5.
List the 7 Baby Steps to Financial Peace
a.
________________________________
b.
________________________________
c.
________________________________
d.
________________________________
e.
________________________________
f.
________________________________
g.
________________________________
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CHAPTER FIVE
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LIVING FREE FROM OFFENSE Luke 17 “Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no ]offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should [offend one of these little ones. 3 Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins ]against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. 4 And if he wins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns [to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him.”
“Offense is an event, but offended is a decision that should not be a season of your life.” -Bernie L. Wade “Do you ever get offended? Has someone ever hurt your feelings, opening the door for strife, anger, or a damaged relationship? Every day, we are presented with multiple opportunities to get offended. It can be as minor as someone cutting us off in traffic or stealing our parking spot. Other times we can feel deeply hurt by a friend's rude or harsh comment. What many people don't know is that offense is one of Satan's greatest tools to steal our peace and rob us of God's blessings. The word "offense" comes from the Greek word scandalon. It is an interesting word that literally describes a trap used to hold bait to lure animals.”38 38
Don't Take the Bait of Getting Offended. Don't Take the Bait of Getting Offended. Joyce Meyer, Christian Post Guest Columnist. Sunday August 21, 2016.
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DO NOT TAKE THE BAIT Offense seems to come to us in baited traps. If we would NOT take the bait we would ignore much hardship. Much insight can be gained just from understanding the meaning of the Greek word skandalon, from which the English word offence is derived. This word skandalon was used to describe the part of a trap where the bait was attached. If the prey took the bait, it would set off the trap and the “taker” became the victim. Once entrapped, the victim becomes subject to the intention of the trapper. From this it becomes clear that offence is one of the primary baits which Satan uses to entrap believers. Once in his trap he can easily subject them to anger, resentment and criticism-bringing division and rebellion. This of course also robs them of joy and spiritual usefulness. So, we must learn to recognize the bait and not take it; and if we do, learn how to deal with it. People will hurt us. We will hurt and offend as well. We all will do this with intention and without, with our thoughts bent to wound and with no thought at all. Jesus took all our offenses into his broken body when he died for us, and he took everyone else’s as well. All that he suffered—the beating, the scourging, the mocking, and finally the crucifixion—was more than enough to pay for it all. Our offenses and theirs. While offences are inevitable and often prove to be negative, we find that the Lord’s most useful servants had to learn to overcome offences and eventually these experiences perfected them for greater usefulness. Joseph had numerous occasions to be offended -by his brothers, by Potiphar’s wife, by the cupbearer and others. Had he taken the bait he would have become a bitter revengeful man. But somehow he overcame all his trials and tribulations and rose to a higher perspective so he could say,
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“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish (His purpose)” Gen. 50:20. God’s intentions toward us are always good. He loves us and wants the best for us. It is mission critical that we remember His love. People will fail us, but God never fails.
Moses tried his best to address his people’s wrongs, but it backfired, and he was probably offended. Forty years in the wilderness taught him to overcome this offence. This ‘wilderness journey’ prepared him so he could overcome the offence of the murmuring of his Hebrew family. When the Prophet Samuel came to anoint a king over Israel, David was the last one to appear before the Prophet. David could have been offended by the ‘pecking order’ in his family, but he moved on to become King of Israel. Before David fought Goliath his own brothers mocked him, King Saul misjudged him, but David did not take the bait of offense and remained useful to the Lord. “David had more than one narrow escape from offence. He was saved from the trap of offence by Abigail. In 1 Sam. 25, he was offended by Nabal and was on the way to take revenge. Only the humble, gracious entreaty by
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Abigail rescued him. There is a possibility that David would have forfeited his future if he had fully swallowed the bait in this case. Sometimes our spouses or caring friends can save us from offence (taking the bait) if we are open and willing to hear.” This story also shows that there is a need for those who can gently restrain others from taking the bait, or even guide them out of the trap. Peace makers (Matt. 5:9) are needed not only in the United Nations but also in the body of Christ and likely at your home. Abigail interceded for her guilty husband and even bore his reproach, willing to make up his lack. Many times, offence could be defused or even avoided if there were more like Abigail in the body of Christ. John Bevere, in his best-selling book said it this way: “Offended people still may experience miracles, words of utterance, strong preaching, and healing in their lives. But these are gifts of the Spirit, not fruits. We will be judged according to fruit, not gifting. A gift is given. Fruit is cultivated.” ― John Bevere, The Bait of Satan
How Does Offense Come? Even Jesus had to deal with offence. In Matt. 15:12 the disciples advised Jesus that the Pharisees were offended by what He had said. When Jesus didn’t show up immediately when Lazarus was sick, Martha was offended (John 11:21). His disciples were also offended by Jesus, e.g. John 6: 61 and Matt. 26:31. In a state of offence, we presume that since the offender did us wrong they owe us something. At the very least they owe us an apology, or recompense. Thus, we make them indebted to us. We easily become consumed with our case against the offender. We turn the case over and over in our minds, gaining evidence to vindicate our grievance. We soon assign ourselves the role of judge and jury demanding vindication. In this way we can have our own private lawsuit, which is the basis of many actual lawsuits (1 Cor. 6: 1-8). We must be aware that the potential for offence is much greater with those we love and are close to. The man on the street will rarely offend us P a g e | 54
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because we don’t expect anything from him. Many are offended at leaders because they do not take a certain action which to them seems appropriate. They perceive the leader as being political or indecisive. When one has an offence toward a leader, even if that leader was highly regarded, the perspective changes. After the offence, only the weakness or failures of the leader are now noticed. When in offence mode: ➢ the next step is to begin to negatively affect others. ➢ Then, if offence is allowed to go unchecked, the next step is rebellion. Eventually it sounds like a county music song, “Hey, why don’t you play another somebody done somebody wrong song …”
Staying Offended is Dangerous Assuming we were done wrong and the other party is at fault, what shall we do? We have 2 choices: • hold them to account • or forgive. We need to realize that when we do not forgive, we place ourselves in a state of unforgiveness. This can become profoundly serious. We must be aware that in a state of unforgiveness we shut ourselves off from God’s forgiveness (Matt. 6:14; 18:35). When we are unforgiving, we become unforgiven, and when we are unforgiven we cannot find the grace to forgive. Only when this cycle is broken can we regain our joy and the sense of God’s presence.
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In Matt. 24 Jesus follows His word about offence with a warning that many false prophets would arise and deceive many. When we hold an offence, we immediately become more subject to being deceived by a false prophet. If we have a grievance toward a brother or a church or become offended by the action of a leader. Then someone offers a critical word about that person or church. Our ability to objectively discern that word will be greatly diminished. In this state many will be easily deceived. Offense Has a Purpose While offence appears to be a negative experience, God in His sovereignty can use it for great gain. When we are working through an offence, we learn access to a much deeper experience of His love, forgiveness, and sovereignty (Rom. 2:4). Just as unforgiveness shuts us off from God’s forgiveness, so forgiveness brings renewed and deeper accesses to God’s forgiveness. The more forgiven the greater and deeper the love (Luke 7: 43). Offence is useful to expose the inner nature of our hearts and to bring cleansing through the washing that comes from repentance (Rom. 9:33; 1 Peter 2:8; Matt. 15:13). Knowing and Believing the Sovereignty of God The secret of Joseph’s ability to deal with offence was in his knowing and trusting the sovereignty of God. Therefore, he could say, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” If we really see that He is GOD, He is just, and His purposes will prevail, we can relax and let Him be the adjudicator and judge. If this becomes our experience, then even though potential offence may approach us, we will not take the bait. impression on every life in this place, and on all the lives they will touch.” I wept again and said, “Oh my God, You are Sovereign, and I am blind and selfish. Forgive and cleanse me and open my eyes to see You and to trust You in every circumstance in my life.” Since then, I have learned to trust Him, but still pray, Oh for Grace to trust Him more! Once I truly learn the P a g e | 56
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truth of the chorus, “You are God, and I am not!� my chances of being offended by Him are greatly diminished. Dealing with Offences No matter how much we try to avoid them, offences will come and at times we take the bait. Joseph could have avoided dealing with his brothers, but he knew the offense in their lives would not just go away. They had to be confronted in a Godly manner. For us, even though we wish the incident had not happened, we must deal with the matter. Rather than focus on the other party, we must first deal with ourselves first. Joseph is an excellent example of this principle. In the Old Testament one offering which was required to be offered by everyone was the trespass offering. This is what Jesus was referring to in Matt. 5:24 when He indicated that any other offering is of no consequence if there is an unresolved offence. How many dear believers bring their tithes and offerings diligently week after week, and then wonder why the promised blessing is not on their lives? The principle stands - first go and be reconciled to your brother and THEN come and offer your gift. We must forgive in our heart. Matt. 7:1-5: 18:21,35; Rom. 3:23 There is something about us that we always want to pick the speck out of another's eye but ignore the plank in our own. Matt. 7:1-5 tells us to first deal with our side of the problem. Practically, this means to forgive from our heart (Matt. 18: 35), even if there is no apology. It may mean to forgive seventy time seven times (Matt. 18:21). This is much easier when we truly see that all have sinned and come short (and always will) of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). Many times, we would like to bypass offences and just try to forget it. But in our inner heart, we know that it is still there and not fully dealt with. If we ignore this inner feeling our conscience will become weaker and our fellowship with the Lord more distant, so we must be honest and ask the P a g e | 57
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Lord to work in us until the matter is fully gone and we are free. Prov. 20:22; Eph. 4:26; Rom. 12:19 Monkey Trap The African way to trap a monkey is to place a sweetened stick inside a cage. The monkey reaches through between the narrow bars and grabs the stick. Now he is not able to pull his hand back through the bars while holding the stick. Refusing to let go of the stick, the monkey keeps himself captive and is easily captured. As we hear this story we want to shout, “Drop the stick!” While this sounds unbelievable, many people refusing to drop an offense are keeping themselves in captivity and subject to the enemy’s entrapment just because they won’t, “Drop the stick!!!” Prov. 20:22 says, “Do not say, ‘I’ll pay you back for this wrong!’ Wait for the Lord and He will deliver you.” Eph. 4:26 tells us, “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
How Can I Know When a Matter is Fully Dealt With? When I can drop it having no more interest or need to nurse it or revive it. When seeing the other person no longer evokes any feelings of strain or animosity. When a wound fester, there is still some infection there which must be dealt with. Another evidence is that I can trust the Lord fully when He says that if there is any need to avenge, He will look after it (Rom. 12:19).
Walking and Living in True Wisdom The Apostles, Paul, James, and Peter each talk about the manner of life we ought to live to avoid offence. Paul says that he exercised himself to keep his conscience free from offence (Acts 24:16; 2 Cor. 6:3). An awesome recipe for offence free living comes from James the Bishop at Jerusalem.
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“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow a harvest of righteousness� (James 3: 17). The writings of the Apostle Peter, who learned to overcome offences and misunderstandings, are interwoven with precious jewels of advice. 1 Peter 1-5. Be self-controlled, set your hope fully on the grace-not on others. If you set your hope on others you will be disappointed and sooner or later, you will be offended. Be holy in all that you do, have sincere love for the brothers, rid yourselves of malice, abstain from sinful desires and gentle advice for family life, all of these points produce a desire and the strength to arise above offences. Lord, grant that it may be our determination and desire to live in such a way that we can honestly say that we do not have a problem in our heart with anyone! May You be glorified in our lives, Amen.
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CHAPTER FIVE - LESSON ONE 1. Joseph said, you intended this for _____, but God intended it for ______. 2. What are the 2 choices we have when we are offended? ___________________________________________________ 3. What does this word skandalon mean? ___________________ ___________________________________________________ 4. Offense is a _____. 5. What was the trespass offering for? ______________________ 6. The Apostles exercised themselves to keep their ___________ free from __________. 7. In Matt. 24 Jesus follows His ______ about _______ with a warning that many false ________ would arise and deceive many. 8. When we hold an ________, we immediately become more subject to being ________ by a false prophet. 9. When we have a grievance toward a brother or a church or are ________ by the action of a ______. Then someone offers a ________ word about that person or church. Our ________ to objectively discern that word will be _______ diminished. In this state many will be easily ________.
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