March 5 AM
"SPIRITUAL GROWTH"
Habits For Spiritual Growth
INTRODUCTION
1. In our previous lesson we talked about goals for spiritual growth...
a. Behavioral goals - in which we seek to become like Jesus,
emulating His character
b. Functional goals - in which we aim to determine and develop our
abilities and functions in the body of Christ
c. Congregational goals - in which we unite in our aspirations to
grow as a congregation as well as individual Christians
2. To meet our goals requires the development of good habits...
a. Habits are stepping stones which ensure that we eventually meet
our goals
b. Habits are things done on a frequent basis (daily, weekly, etc.)
that slowly produce a certain effect
Unless we establish good habits, bad habits will set in that
hinder our spiritual growth!
I. BEHAVIORAL HABITS
A. BIBLE READING...
1. The Word of God is crucial to growing spiritually - 1 Pe 2:2
a. David described the value of God's Word - Psa 19:7-11
b. He also illustrated the blessedness and fortitude of one who
meditated daily on the Word of God - Psa 1:1-3
2. The Christian who wants to grow spiritually must therefore
develop the habit of daily Bible reading...
a. Such as reading through the Bible each year (about 3
chapters a day)
b. Or perhaps the New Testament one year, the Old Testament the
next
By feeding upon God's Word daily, we receive the spiritual
nourishment necessary to grow; have you developed the habit of
daily Bible reading?
B. PRAYING...
1. The practice of prayer is also required for spiritual growth
a. Through prayer we find mercy and grace to help - He 4:16
b. Through prayer we find peace to guard our hearts - Ph 4:6-7
2. The Christian must therefore continue steadfastly in prayer
- Ro 12:12
a. Perhaps emulating the example of David - cf. Psa 55:17
b. And the custom of Daniel, who prayed three times daily - cf.
Dan 6:10
Just as we must listen to God daily through His Word, so we
must talk to Him daily if we are to grow; have you developed
the habit of praying regularly?
C. SINGING...
1. Praising God in song is also conducive to spiritual growth
a. David, the man after God's own heart, developed the practice
of praising God daily - cf. Psa 104:33; 119:164
b. If we teach one another through songs, do we not also teach
ourselves when we sing? - cf. Co 3:16
2. The Christian should make singing a habit that is second nature
to him or her
a. When happy, we should sing - Ja 5:13
b. In times of trial, we should sing - cf. Ac 16:25
As we develop the habits of daily Bible reading and prayer, let
us also develop the habit of singing praises to God daily if
we seek to grow!
D. ASSEMBLING...
1. Assembling together with other Christians is very important
- He 10:24-25
a. It is a means of stimulating one another to love and good
works
b. We exhort one another in our service to Christ
2. Therefore Christians should make a strong habit of attending
church
a. Attending as often as possible, for worship, Bible study,
etc.
b. The more we attend, the stronger the habit becomes; the less
we attend, the weaker the habit becomes
Christians who make it a habit to skip the assemblies struggle
in their efforts to grow spiritually; no Christian has become
stronger by neglecting the assembly!
II. FUNCTIONAL HABITS
A. ASSEMBLING TOGETHER WITH THE CHURCH...
1. Yes, we have already mentioned the habit of assembling with
Christians
a. But that was in connection with your personal spiritual
growth
b. If we are to reach our functional goals, it will be within
the framework of the local church
2. Through frequent assembling with the church...
a. We become familiar with identities and needs of other
members
b. We learn what functions are needed in the body of Christ
- cf. Ro 12:3-8
c. We are given opportunity to be of service to one another
The habit of going to church is essential if we are going to be
of much use to the Lord's church; otherwise, we cannot be
counted on for much service
B. PARTICIPATION IN THE WORK OF THE CHURCH...
1. Such as the habit of participating in the assemblies of the
church...
a. E.g., teaching classes, preaching, Bible reading, leading
singing
b. E.g., ushering, counting attendance, serving the Lord's
Supper
c. E.g., a young man desiring to grow might develop the habit
of participating in the following activities, starting with
what is easy and progressing to the more difficult:
1) Serving on the Lord's table
2) Reading Scripture
3) Leading the closing prayer
4) Leading the opening prayer
5) Serving as usher, welcoming and seating visitors
6) Presiding at the Lord's table
7) Making announcements
8) Extending the invitation
9) Leading singing
10) Teaching the adult classes
11) Preaching sermons
2. Such as the habit of providing for other services needed in the
church
a. E.g., greeting visitors, ministering to the sick,
encouraging the weak, teaching the gospel to the lost
b. E.g., cleaning the building, providing maintenance for the
building and grounds, preparing the Lord's Supper
If we hope to reach our functional goals in which we are useful
to the Master, then we need to make participation in the work
of the church a habit!
III. CONGREGATIONAL HABITS
A. DEFINING ROLES THAT ARE AVAILABLE...
1. Participation in functional roles is more likely when members
are aware of what needs to be done
2. A congregation can encourage spiritual growth by clearly
defining what functional roles are available for service
A congregation needs to be in the habit of letting its members
know what kind of functional roles are available
B. PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN AND SERVE...
1. Opportunities to learn, to serve, and thereby grow need to be
provided - 2 Ti 2:2
a. E.g., providing training classes to develop various
abilities
b. E.g., making sure those trained are making good use of their
abilities
2. The habit of developing a duty roster can assist in this
a. In which people are assigned to serve in various capacities
b. Making sure that all who wish to serve are given
opportunities
Each congregation should have some habitual way of training and
involving its members in the work and worship of the church
C. ENCOURAGING PARTICIPATION ACTIVITIES OF SERVICE...
1. A congregation should also be in the habit of encouraging
spiritual growth
2. One good habit is to let the inexperienced gain experience; for
example...
a. Allowing those who desire to preach the opportunity to do so
b. Such as providing one night a month for them to preach
c. Such as encouraging them to fill-in preach for neighboring
congregations
A congregation should have the habit of encouraging
participation, even if it means utilizing those who are
inexperienced, nervous or awkward, even if it means letting
them to go to serve elsewhere as the need arises
CONCLUSION
1. Remember, goals are obtained whenever good habits are established...
a. The creation of good habits sets the stage for spiritual growth
b. As spiritual habits are developed, spiritual growth is incremental
but steady
2. Wholesome and well-rounded spiritual growth occurs wherever...
a. An individual develops both behavioral and functional habits that
will help them along to reaching their behavioral and functional
goals
b. A congregation promotes habits that will encourage participation
in its work, especially in helping Christians develop their
functional goals in the body of Christ
Are we developing the kind of habits that will help us grow spiritually?
Habits For Spiritual Growth
INTRODUCTION
1. In our previous lesson we talked about goals for spiritual growth...
a. Behavioral goals - in which we seek to become like Jesus,
emulating His character
b. Functional goals - in which we aim to determine and develop our
abilities and functions in the body of Christ
c. Congregational goals - in which we unite in our aspirations to
grow as a congregation as well as individual Christians
2. To meet our goals requires the development of good habits...
a. Habits are stepping stones which ensure that we eventually meet
our goals
b. Habits are things done on a frequent basis (daily, weekly, etc.)
that slowly produce a certain effect
Unless we establish good habits, bad habits will set in that
hinder our spiritual growth!
I. BEHAVIORAL HABITS
A. BIBLE READING...
1. The Word of God is crucial to growing spiritually - 1 Pe 2:2
a. David described the value of God's Word - Psa 19:7-11
b. He also illustrated the blessedness and fortitude of one who
meditated daily on the Word of God - Psa 1:1-3
2. The Christian who wants to grow spiritually must therefore
develop the habit of daily Bible reading...
a. Such as reading through the Bible each year (about 3
chapters a day)
b. Or perhaps the New Testament one year, the Old Testament the
next
By feeding upon God's Word daily, we receive the spiritual
nourishment necessary to grow; have you developed the habit of
daily Bible reading?
B. PRAYING...
1. The practice of prayer is also required for spiritual growth
a. Through prayer we find mercy and grace to help - He 4:16
b. Through prayer we find peace to guard our hearts - Ph 4:6-7
2. The Christian must therefore continue steadfastly in prayer
- Ro 12:12
a. Perhaps emulating the example of David - cf. Psa 55:17
b. And the custom of Daniel, who prayed three times daily - cf.
Dan 6:10
Just as we must listen to God daily through His Word, so we
must talk to Him daily if we are to grow; have you developed
the habit of praying regularly?
C. SINGING...
1. Praising God in song is also conducive to spiritual growth
a. David, the man after God's own heart, developed the practice
of praising God daily - cf. Psa 104:33; 119:164
b. If we teach one another through songs, do we not also teach
ourselves when we sing? - cf. Co 3:16
2. The Christian should make singing a habit that is second nature
to him or her
a. When happy, we should sing - Ja 5:13
b. In times of trial, we should sing - cf. Ac 16:25
As we develop the habits of daily Bible reading and prayer, let
us also develop the habit of singing praises to God daily if
we seek to grow!
D. ASSEMBLING...
1. Assembling together with other Christians is very important
- He 10:24-25
a. It is a means of stimulating one another to love and good
works
b. We exhort one another in our service to Christ
2. Therefore Christians should make a strong habit of attending
church
a. Attending as often as possible, for worship, Bible study,
etc.
b. The more we attend, the stronger the habit becomes; the less
we attend, the weaker the habit becomes
Christians who make it a habit to skip the assemblies struggle
in their efforts to grow spiritually; no Christian has become
stronger by neglecting the assembly!
II. FUNCTIONAL HABITS
A. ASSEMBLING TOGETHER WITH THE CHURCH...
1. Yes, we have already mentioned the habit of assembling with
Christians
a. But that was in connection with your personal spiritual
growth
b. If we are to reach our functional goals, it will be within
the framework of the local church
2. Through frequent assembling with the church...
a. We become familiar with identities and needs of other
members
b. We learn what functions are needed in the body of Christ
- cf. Ro 12:3-8
c. We are given opportunity to be of service to one another
The habit of going to church is essential if we are going to be
of much use to the Lord's church; otherwise, we cannot be
counted on for much service
B. PARTICIPATION IN THE WORK OF THE CHURCH...
1. Such as the habit of participating in the assemblies of the
church...
a. E.g., teaching classes, preaching, Bible reading, leading
singing
b. E.g., ushering, counting attendance, serving the Lord's
Supper
c. E.g., a young man desiring to grow might develop the habit
of participating in the following activities, starting with
what is easy and progressing to the more difficult:
1) Serving on the Lord's table
2) Reading Scripture
3) Leading the closing prayer
4) Leading the opening prayer
5) Serving as usher, welcoming and seating visitors
6) Presiding at the Lord's table
7) Making announcements
8) Extending the invitation
9) Leading singing
10) Teaching the adult classes
11) Preaching sermons
2. Such as the habit of providing for other services needed in the
church
a. E.g., greeting visitors, ministering to the sick,
encouraging the weak, teaching the gospel to the lost
b. E.g., cleaning the building, providing maintenance for the
building and grounds, preparing the Lord's Supper
If we hope to reach our functional goals in which we are useful
to the Master, then we need to make participation in the work
of the church a habit!
III. CONGREGATIONAL HABITS
A. DEFINING ROLES THAT ARE AVAILABLE...
1. Participation in functional roles is more likely when members
are aware of what needs to be done
2. A congregation can encourage spiritual growth by clearly
defining what functional roles are available for service
A congregation needs to be in the habit of letting its members
know what kind of functional roles are available
B. PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN AND SERVE...
1. Opportunities to learn, to serve, and thereby grow need to be
provided - 2 Ti 2:2
a. E.g., providing training classes to develop various
abilities
b. E.g., making sure those trained are making good use of their
abilities
2. The habit of developing a duty roster can assist in this
a. In which people are assigned to serve in various capacities
b. Making sure that all who wish to serve are given
opportunities
Each congregation should have some habitual way of training and
involving its members in the work and worship of the church
C. ENCOURAGING PARTICIPATION ACTIVITIES OF SERVICE...
1. A congregation should also be in the habit of encouraging
spiritual growth
2. One good habit is to let the inexperienced gain experience; for
example...
a. Allowing those who desire to preach the opportunity to do so
b. Such as providing one night a month for them to preach
c. Such as encouraging them to fill-in preach for neighboring
congregations
A congregation should have the habit of encouraging
participation, even if it means utilizing those who are
inexperienced, nervous or awkward, even if it means letting
them to go to serve elsewhere as the need arises
CONCLUSION
1. Remember, goals are obtained whenever good habits are established...
a. The creation of good habits sets the stage for spiritual growth
b. As spiritual habits are developed, spiritual growth is incremental
but steady
2. Wholesome and well-rounded spiritual growth occurs wherever...
a. An individual develops both behavioral and functional habits that
will help them along to reaching their behavioral and functional
goals
b. A congregation promotes habits that will encourage participation
in its work, especially in helping Christians develop their
functional goals in the body of Christ
Are we developing the kind of habits that will help us grow spiritually?
March 5 PM
Identity of God
1)Importance of
2)Evidences for
a)Uniformity of the scripturesDo You Believe In God?
b)Scientific Knowledge
c)Fulfilled prophecies
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Hebrews 11:6 Belief is necessary to please God
What reasons are there for believing in God.
Romans 1:20 Creator of things
But who is the creator?
JudhismWhat are the evidences for the identity of God?
Islam
Christianity
all believe in one true God.
Uniformity of the scriptures over the many years-many places.
2 Peter 1:20-21 writers were inspired by the same God.
Scientific truths revealed by inspiration
Isaiah 13:17-22-fall of BabylonAll 100's of years before they were destroyed
Isaiah 19:1-4-fall of Egypt
Zephaniah 2:13-15-desolation of Nineveh
He is the God of the Bible
Next week we'll discuss the identity of Jesus
March 12, 2006 AM
Spiritual Growth, The Importance of a positive attitude
1) Dangers of a negative attitude
2) Value of a positive attitude
3) Maintaining a positive attitude
2 Peter 3:18 Grow in Grace and Knowledge
Phillipians 4:13 do all things through Christ
Pattern ourselves after Jesus
The church is like a body, we all are parts of the body.
We need to function properly to make the body work.
Habits to pick up
Pray and read daily
Positive attitude needed
1 Corinthians 15:58
2 Corinthians 4
Learn to persavere
Paul is a good example of a positive attitude
Numbers 13:31- Negative attitude
12 spies sent-10 were negative
Joshua and Kaleb were positive
we remember their names, they had faith.
The 10 spies negative attitudes discouraged all of Israel
Numbers 14- They all died before entering the Promised Land.
with negativity, we get discouraged, stop believing, and discourage others.
Nehemiah 4:6 people had a mind to work-
positive attitude while being ridiculed
they kept on...
Nehemiah 6:15 finished the wall
we can do it with God's help.
They believed and encouraged each other and reached their goals.
Spiritual Growth requires positive attitude without it you will fall short
How to maintain positive attitude
A) Choose to be positive
undershand the value of hardtimes
James 1:3-4
How do you walk 1000 miles? One step at a time
Romans 5:3-4
Romans 12:12
B)Block our negativity-
I can't do it, it's too hard
Phillipians 4:13
God wants me to grow
Galatians 6:7-9
1 Corinthians 15:58- labor is not in vain
Keep faithful
One day receive a home in heaven
We cannot afford to give up
1 Corinthians 15:33 avoid evil companions
don't be around negative/toxic people.
always remind yourself God wants you to succeed.
Hebrews 10:24-surround yourself with positive people.
Acts 4:36
Acts 11:22-24- Barnabas always encouraged others
Hebrews 3:13-Hardened through the deceitfulness of sin
C) Live in the now! Keep an eye for the future.
1 Timothy 1:12-15
Paul could have talked about his past mistakes and dwelt on them
Phillipians 3:12-14- he pressed on to the future.
forget what's behind
reach forward to God
2 Corinthians 4:17-18-endure present trials to ensure his eternal future
2 Timothy 4:18- god will preserve me.
God provides us the tools to maintain our positiveness.
Bible
Church
Fellow Christians
Prayer
Hebrews 6:10
1 John 9- forgiveness
Do not allow your positive attitude be destroyed.
Forget your past, god will if you ask Him.
Have you done what He's asked of you?
Joshua 24:15
Me and my house are going to serve the Lord.
Spiritual Growth, The Importance of a positive attitude
1) Dangers of a negative attitude
2) Value of a positive attitude
3) Maintaining a positive attitude
A)Choose to be positive
B)Block out negativity
C)Live in the present, with an eye to the future
2 Peter 3:18 Grow in Grace and Knowledge
Phillipians 4:13 do all things through Christ
Pattern ourselves after Jesus
The church is like a body, we all are parts of the body.
We need to function properly to make the body work.
Habits to pick up
Pray and read daily
Positive attitude needed
1 Corinthians 15:58
2 Corinthians 4
Learn to persavere
Paul is a good example of a positive attitude
Numbers 13:31- Negative attitude
12 spies sent-10 were negative
Joshua and Kaleb were positive
we remember their names, they had faith.
The 10 spies negative attitudes discouraged all of Israel
Numbers 14- They all died before entering the Promised Land.
with negativity, we get discouraged, stop believing, and discourage others.
Nehemiah 4:6 people had a mind to work-
positive attitude while being ridiculed
they kept on...
Nehemiah 6:15 finished the wall
we can do it with God's help.
They believed and encouraged each other and reached their goals.
Spiritual Growth requires positive attitude without it you will fall short
How to maintain positive attitude
A) Choose to be positive
you can control your attitude and moodJames 1:2- choose to rejoice
you can control how you react to situations.
undershand the value of hardtimes
James 1:3-4
How do you walk 1000 miles? One step at a time
Romans 5:3-4
Romans 12:12
B)Block our negativity-
I can't do it, it's too hard
Phillipians 4:13
God wants me to grow
Galatians 6:7-9
1 Corinthians 15:58- labor is not in vain
Keep faithful
One day receive a home in heaven
We cannot afford to give up
1 Corinthians 15:33 avoid evil companions
don't be around negative/toxic people.
always remind yourself God wants you to succeed.
Hebrews 10:24-surround yourself with positive people.
Acts 4:36
Acts 11:22-24- Barnabas always encouraged others
Hebrews 3:13-Hardened through the deceitfulness of sin
C) Live in the now! Keep an eye for the future.
1 Timothy 1:12-15
Paul could have talked about his past mistakes and dwelt on them
Phillipians 3:12-14- he pressed on to the future.
forget what's behind
reach forward to God
2 Corinthians 4:17-18-endure present trials to ensure his eternal future
2 Timothy 4:18- god will preserve me.
God provides us the tools to maintain our positiveness.
Bible
Church
Fellow Christians
Prayer
Hebrews 6:10
1 John 9- forgiveness
Do not allow your positive attitude be destroyed.
Forget your past, god will if you ask Him.
Have you done what He's asked of you?
Joshua 24:15
Me and my house are going to serve the Lord.
March 12 PM
Issues of Distinction
Identity of Jesus of Nazareth
1)The Claims made about Jesus
2)Implications of claims about Jesus are not true
Matthew 16:13-17-who do men say I am?
who do you say I am?
Luke 24:25-27-prophecied
Luke 24:44- ye are witnesses of these things
John 1:1- All things made of God-word is God
John 1:14- word was made flesh
Either Jesus is everything NT says
1 Timothy 6:14-16
or NT is a carefully orchestrated fraud
2 Peter 1:16- our existence is based on what we saw with our own eyes
1 Corinthians 14 & 15 - false witnesses will say it's fake
Ressurection offered as extreme proof
Acts 10:39-41
1 John 1:1-4
apostles ate with Him and saw and touched Him
People say they made honest mistakes, or hallucinated
individuals hallucinate, not groups of people
1 Corinthians 15:4-8 Paul lists His appearances
500 people at one time
NT is either a book of truth or a book of lies
which is more reasonable?
1)carefully orchestrated lie
Luke 2 accuracy carefully planned
it is not reasonable to believe
2)Authors suffered extreme hardships for what they knew were lies
1 Corinthians 4:9-13
2 Corinthians 11:24-29
Pauls suffering
If they knew Paul was lying, they would have destroyed the letters that were embarassing them
is it logical?
3)Authors knew they were dying for a lie.
No sincere mistake in the eyes and ears as they heard God say "this is my Son"
is it rational that they were lying?
4)Apostles went against everything they taught
Sermon on the Mount
Ephesians 4
1 Peter 2:1
Always speak the truth
Goes against morale teachings
does it make sense?
5)Bible was composes by liars
what presents a higher standard of love?
Such high morales
If one doesn't believe NT is true, they have to believe these things
If they don't believe in the miracles
His birth and life
His death and resurrection
those who don't believe it must not have read it carefully
If you read it carefully you'll see a truth
John 20:30-31-these are written so you will believe
Who do you believe Jesus of Nazareth is?
John 1:12 right to become a child of God
Galatians 3:26-27 Put on Christ
By accepting His identity, we seperate ourselves from those
who believe liars wrote the Bible and were trying to deceive us.
Issues of Distinction
Identity of Jesus of Nazareth
1)The Claims made about Jesus
2)Implications of claims about Jesus are not true
Matthew 16:13-17-who do men say I am?
who do you say I am?
Luke 24:25-27-prophecied
Luke 24:44- ye are witnesses of these things
John 1:1- All things made of God-word is God
John 1:14- word was made flesh
Either Jesus is everything NT says
1 Timothy 6:14-16
or NT is a carefully orchestrated fraud
2 Peter 1:16- our existence is based on what we saw with our own eyes
1 Corinthians 14 & 15 - false witnesses will say it's fake
Ressurection offered as extreme proof
Acts 10:39-41
1 John 1:1-4
apostles ate with Him and saw and touched Him
People say they made honest mistakes, or hallucinated
individuals hallucinate, not groups of people
1 Corinthians 15:4-8 Paul lists His appearances
500 people at one time
NT is either a book of truth or a book of lies
which is more reasonable?
1)carefully orchestrated lie
Luke 2 accuracy carefully planned
it is not reasonable to believe
2)Authors suffered extreme hardships for what they knew were lies
1 Corinthians 4:9-13
2 Corinthians 11:24-29
Pauls suffering
If they knew Paul was lying, they would have destroyed the letters that were embarassing them
is it logical?
3)Authors knew they were dying for a lie.
No sincere mistake in the eyes and ears as they heard God say "this is my Son"
is it rational that they were lying?
4)Apostles went against everything they taught
Sermon on the Mount
Ephesians 4
1 Peter 2:1
Always speak the truth
Goes against morale teachings
does it make sense?
5)Bible was composes by liars
what presents a higher standard of love?
Such high morales
If one doesn't believe NT is true, they have to believe these things
If they don't believe in the miracles
His birth and life
His death and resurrection
those who don't believe it must not have read it carefully
If you read it carefully you'll see a truth
John 20:30-31-these are written so you will believe
Who do you believe Jesus of Nazareth is?
John 1:12 right to become a child of God
Galatians 3:26-27 Put on Christ
By accepting His identity, we seperate ourselves from those
who believe liars wrote the Bible and were trying to deceive us.
March 19 AM
Spiritual Growth: The Need for Perseverance
Maintaining Perseverance
Perseverance = Patience
Hebrews 10:36
Need to develop to have Jesus' attitude
Hebrews 12:1
Perseverance means steadfastness-endurance
not swayed by their loyalty
why we need this
Hebrews 5:12-growth takes time
takes time to figure out where your talent is.
endure and persevere whatever time it takes to grow
Growth requires repetition
2 Corinthians 9:6
You will make mistakes
expect to stumble
repeated efforts
How can I best use my abilities
Ephesians 6:17- sword of the spirit
If you don't persevere, you will regress
Revelation 2:4-5
2 Peter 2:20-22 False teachers will go back into the world
Spiritual health is like physical health
You have to exercise or you'll get "out of shape" again
Maintaining Perseverance
1) 2 Peter 1:6
exercise self control-one day at a time
it will help me to try again and again
2) Hebrews 10:36-39
associate with like minded people
Hebrews 10:24-25-exhorted one another
need for frequent assembling
will help develop habits and goals
needed to persevere
3) Keep your eye on the prize
Home in Heaven with God
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Phillipians 3:12-18
Hebrews 12:1-3
what enabled Jesus to endure the cross,
sitting at the right hand of God
develop and appriciation
Matthew 13:20-21
Parable of the soil,
rocky vs. good soil
Luke 8:15
a good beginning is not enough
you have to persevere
Spiritual Growth: The Need for Perseverance
1) Takes Time
2) Requires repetition
3) Can Regress
Maintaining Perseverance
1) Display self control
2) Associate with like-minded individuals
3) Keep yourself on the prize.
Perseverance = Patience
Hebrews 10:36
Need to develop to have Jesus' attitude
Hebrews 12:1
Perseverance means steadfastness-endurance
not swayed by their loyalty
why we need this
Hebrews 5:12-growth takes time
takes time to figure out where your talent is.
endure and persevere whatever time it takes to grow
Growth requires repetition
2 Corinthians 9:6
You will make mistakes
expect to stumble
repeated efforts
How can I best use my abilities
Ephesians 6:17- sword of the spirit
If you don't persevere, you will regress
Revelation 2:4-5
2 Peter 2:20-22 False teachers will go back into the world
Spiritual health is like physical health
You have to exercise or you'll get "out of shape" again
Maintaining Perseverance
1) 2 Peter 1:6
exercise self control-one day at a time
it will help me to try again and again
2) Hebrews 10:36-39
associate with like minded people
Hebrews 10:24-25-exhorted one another
need for frequent assembling
will help develop habits and goals
needed to persevere
3) Keep your eye on the prize
Home in Heaven with God
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Phillipians 3:12-18
Hebrews 12:1-3
what enabled Jesus to endure the cross,
sitting at the right hand of God
develop and appriciation
Matthew 13:20-21
Parable of the soil,
rocky vs. good soil
Luke 8:15
a good beginning is not enough
you have to persevere
March 19 PM
Issues of Distinction: All Sufficiency of the scriptures
1)Many deny
2)Arguments for
John 17:20-21
1 Corinthians 1:10-13
Are the scriptures sufficient by themselves?
Do we need another source of authority?
Roman Catholics, Methodists etc accept traditions in addition
to the Bible
these churches started 500 years after the Lord's church
for example:
Father as a religious title
Matthew 23:9
Celebacy 1 Timothy 3:1-2
do you accept scripture or traditions?
Mormons believe God having body of flesh
John 4:24-God is Spirit
Jehovas Witnesses deny the resurrection
Luke 24:39-40
John 2:19-22
Pentecostals have women preachers
1 Timothy 2:11-12
1 Corinthians 14:34-37
Unity needs the same standard of authority=scriptures alone
Are they enough?
Do we need anything beyond them?
1)Acts 20:27-whole council
Acts 20:20-kept back nothing
Acts 20:32-Entrust you with the word of God
Sufficient to build you up, give you inheritance among those sactified
Did not leave revelations yet to come
left them the word of God
I have already given you all of God's Word.
there's not more coming later
2)2 Peter 1:3-All things of life and Godliness
he said all things not some now, more later
3)Jude 3-once for all delivered one time for all time
faith wasn't partially revealed, and more later
body of knowledge never to be amended
Delivered once and for all
4)2 Timothy 3:14-17
All given by inspiration of God
Capable of making the man of God complete
Everything you need
Every good work to come from scriptures
John 20:30-31
Everything I need to believe in Jesus is in the scriptures
All that I need to have life in Jesus
1 John 1:3-Fellowship with Father, Son and apostles
1 John 1:4-Joy spiritually
1 John 2:1-Forgiveness-help from Jesus
1 John 5:13-Eternal Life
Ephesians 3:3-4-when you read you can understand
2 Peter 1:8-11-faith, virtue etc.
do these things and you will be fruitful.
then you will know you have abundant entrance into heaven
What else must we need?
Nothing
Acts 30:32 I commend you to God
All you need is the word of God
That's the only message you need
Simply need the Bible
Issues of Distinction: All Sufficiency of the scriptures
1)Many deny
2)Arguments for
a)Acts 20:27,20,32
b)2 Peter 1:3
c)Jude 3
d)2 Timothy 3:14-17
John 17:20-21
1 Corinthians 1:10-13
Are the scriptures sufficient by themselves?
Do we need another source of authority?
Roman Catholics, Methodists etc accept traditions in addition
to the Bible
these churches started 500 years after the Lord's church
for example:
Father as a religious title
Matthew 23:9
Celebacy 1 Timothy 3:1-2
do you accept scripture or traditions?
Mormons believe God having body of flesh
John 4:24-God is Spirit
Jehovas Witnesses deny the resurrection
Luke 24:39-40
John 2:19-22
Pentecostals have women preachers
1 Timothy 2:11-12
1 Corinthians 14:34-37
Unity needs the same standard of authority=scriptures alone
Are they enough?
Do we need anything beyond them?
1)Acts 20:27-whole council
Acts 20:20-kept back nothing
Acts 20:32-Entrust you with the word of God
Sufficient to build you up, give you inheritance among those sactified
Did not leave revelations yet to come
left them the word of God
I have already given you all of God's Word.
there's not more coming later
2)2 Peter 1:3-All things of life and Godliness
he said all things not some now, more later
3)Jude 3-once for all delivered one time for all time
faith wasn't partially revealed, and more later
body of knowledge never to be amended
Delivered once and for all
4)2 Timothy 3:14-17
All given by inspiration of God
Capable of making the man of God complete
Everything you need
Every good work to come from scriptures
John 20:30-31
Everything I need to believe in Jesus is in the scriptures
All that I need to have life in Jesus
1 John 1:3-Fellowship with Father, Son and apostles
1 John 1:4-Joy spiritually
1 John 2:1-Forgiveness-help from Jesus
1 John 5:13-Eternal Life
Ephesians 3:3-4-when you read you can understand
2 Peter 1:8-11-faith, virtue etc.
do these things and you will be fruitful.
then you will know you have abundant entrance into heaven
What else must we need?
Nothing
Acts 30:32 I commend you to God
All you need is the word of God
That's the only message you need
Simply need the Bible
March 26 AM
Spiritual Growth: Value of role models
Phillipians 3:17
Phillipians 4:9
1 Corinthians 11:1-I follow Christ, so you follow me
Why are we commanded to imitate others?
we are born to imitate
kids imitate parents or siblings
teens imitate peers, trends, other teens
dress, talk, walk, etc
Christians emulate preachers/teachers etc.
Be careful who we imitate
Mark 3:17
Luke 9:54- James and John
sons of thunder become apostles of love
Acts 4:13- uneducated, but still became role models
what we can become
Phillipians 4:9
learn these things then follow them
Peace with God
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Paul suffered, but stayed strong
Bad role models prevent us from learning our true potential
if you start to emulate them, you'll fall away
where can we find good role models?
God and Christ
follow in the footsteps of Jesus
Matthew 5:33-48
walked in love
Ephesians 5:1-2
Disciples
Paul- 1 Corinthians 11:1
Priscilla and Aquilla-Romans 16:3-5
Philemon 3 John 5-8 Gaius blessed with material blessings
Dorcas- Acts 9:36-39
Timothy -Phillipians 2
Old Testament- Joseph-fleed fornication
Daniel - never gave up
Phillipians 3:17-Paul
encourages us to bear fruit and follow him because he's following Jesus.
Titus 2:3-5
1 Timothy 4:12
Role models help us to persevere
we need to choose good role models to emulate
3 John 11
those who do wrong-do not see God
Hebrews 6:11-12
imitate those through faith and patience will inherit the promises
Are you becoming a role model for others?
Spiritual Growth: Value of role models
1) Natural imitators
2) Value of
3) Rolemodels worthy of emulation
Phillipians 3:17
Phillipians 4:9
1 Corinthians 11:1-I follow Christ, so you follow me
Why are we commanded to imitate others?
we are born to imitate
kids imitate parents or siblings
teens imitate peers, trends, other teens
dress, talk, walk, etc
Christians emulate preachers/teachers etc.
Be careful who we imitate
Mark 3:17
Luke 9:54- James and John
sons of thunder become apostles of love
Acts 4:13- uneducated, but still became role models
what we can become
Phillipians 4:9
learn these things then follow them
Peace with God
2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Paul suffered, but stayed strong
Bad role models prevent us from learning our true potential
if you start to emulate them, you'll fall away
where can we find good role models?
God and Christ
follow in the footsteps of Jesus
Matthew 5:33-48
walked in love
Ephesians 5:1-2
Disciples
Paul- 1 Corinthians 11:1
Priscilla and Aquilla-Romans 16:3-5
Philemon 3 John 5-8 Gaius blessed with material blessings
Dorcas- Acts 9:36-39
Timothy -Phillipians 2
Old Testament- Joseph-fleed fornication
Daniel - never gave up
Phillipians 3:17-Paul
encourages us to bear fruit and follow him because he's following Jesus.
Titus 2:3-5
1 Timothy 4:12
Role models help us to persevere
we need to choose good role models to emulate
3 John 11
those who do wrong-do not see God
Hebrews 6:11-12
imitate those through faith and patience will inherit the promises
Are you becoming a role model for others?
March 26 PM
"ISSUES OF DISTINCTION"
The Purpose Of Baptism
INTRODUCTION
1. In this series we have surveyed the following "Issues Of
Distinction":
a. The Existence Of God - which differentiates between...
1) Atheists and agnostics, who deny or question God's existence
2) Buddhists, Hindus, Jews, Moslems, Christians, etc., who
believe in a Supreme Being
b. The Identity Of God - which distinguishes between...
1) Buddhists, Hindus, etc., who hold to many gods
2) Jews, Moslems, Christians, etc., who believe in God of Abraham
c. The Identity Of Jesus Of Nazareth - over which there is a
difference between...
1) Jews, Moslems, etc., who may accept Jesus as a good man,
perhaps a prophet
2) Christians, who believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God
d. The All-Sufficiency Of The Scriptures - where again there is a
difference between...
1) Catholics, Mormons, JWs, etc., who deny the Scriptures are
all-sufficient
2) Mainstream Protestants, Christians, etc., who profess the
principle of "scriptura sola" (the Scriptures alone)
2. Another "issue of distinction" is "The Purpose Of Baptism"
a. Some say that the purpose of baptism has nothing to do with
salvation
b. Others say that baptism is an integral part in God's plan for
saving man
3. In this study, we shall examine...
a. The common view of baptism held by many denominations
b. What the Scriptures themselves teach concerning baptism
c. What difference does it really make
I. THE COMMON DENOMINATIONAL VIEW REGARDING BAPTISM
A. THAT BAPTISM HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH SALVATION...
1. The view expressed by many Baptists is a popular one:
a. "Baptists believe that no one is subject for baptism till
he is already saved."
b. "We believe it is a positive command, enjoined upon the
believing, saved soul, and is essential to true, loving
obedience."
c. "Baptists believe that the immersion of a believer is an
open declaration to the world that such a one is dead to
sin."
d. "Again, the immersion is a proclamation to the world that
we believe in Him who died for our sins according to the
Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again
the third day according to the Scriptures."
e. "So it is a proclamation of our belief that Christ arose
from the dead..."
What Baptists Believe And Why They Believe It, J. G. Bow
2. My purpose is not to single out Baptists
The Purpose Of Baptism
INTRODUCTION
1. In this series we have surveyed the following "Issues Of
Distinction":
a. The Existence Of God - which differentiates between...
1) Atheists and agnostics, who deny or question God's existence
2) Buddhists, Hindus, Jews, Moslems, Christians, etc., who
believe in a Supreme Being
b. The Identity Of God - which distinguishes between...
1) Buddhists, Hindus, etc., who hold to many gods
2) Jews, Moslems, Christians, etc., who believe in God of Abraham
c. The Identity Of Jesus Of Nazareth - over which there is a
difference between...
1) Jews, Moslems, etc., who may accept Jesus as a good man,
perhaps a prophet
2) Christians, who believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God
d. The All-Sufficiency Of The Scriptures - where again there is a
difference between...
1) Catholics, Mormons, JWs, etc., who deny the Scriptures are
all-sufficient
2) Mainstream Protestants, Christians, etc., who profess the
principle of "scriptura sola" (the Scriptures alone)
2. Another "issue of distinction" is "The Purpose Of Baptism"
a. Some say that the purpose of baptism has nothing to do with
salvation
b. Others say that baptism is an integral part in God's plan for
saving man
3. In this study, we shall examine...
a. The common view of baptism held by many denominations
b. What the Scriptures themselves teach concerning baptism
c. What difference does it really make
I. THE COMMON DENOMINATIONAL VIEW REGARDING BAPTISM
A. THAT BAPTISM HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH SALVATION...
1. The view expressed by many Baptists is a popular one:
a. "Baptists believe that no one is subject for baptism till
he is already saved."
b. "We believe it is a positive command, enjoined upon the
believing, saved soul, and is essential to true, loving
obedience."
c. "Baptists believe that the immersion of a believer is an
open declaration to the world that such a one is dead to
sin."
d. "Again, the immersion is a proclamation to the world that
we believe in Him who died for our sins according to the
Scriptures; and that He was buried, and that He rose again
the third day according to the Scriptures."
e. "So it is a proclamation of our belief that Christ arose
from the dead..."
What Baptists Believe And Why They Believe It, J. G. Bow
2. My purpose is not to single out Baptists
a. Not all Baptists would agree with the above view
b. But it is indicative of most Baptists, and is held by many
Protestants
B. THE PURPOSE OF BAPTISM FROM THIS PERSPECTIVE...
1. Baptism is simply "a public declaration" of one's faith in
Jesus Christ
2. It is a command to be obeyed AFTER salvation, similar to the
Lord's Supper
3. It is therefore non-essential to salvation:
Protestants
B. THE PURPOSE OF BAPTISM FROM THIS PERSPECTIVE...
1. Baptism is simply "a public declaration" of one's faith in
Jesus Christ
2. It is a command to be obeyed AFTER salvation, similar to the
Lord's Supper
3. It is therefore non-essential to salvation:
II. THE BIBLICAL VIEW REGARDING BAPTISM
A. IS BAPTISM "A PUBLIC PROCLAMATION ONE'S FAITH"?
1. There is no teaching in the Bible that defines the purpose for
baptism as such
a. An appeal is often made to the example of Christ's
baptism...
1) That Jesus was baptized to publicly introduce Himself to
Israel as the Messiah
2) And that therefore the purpose for Christian baptism is
to serve a similar purpose; i.e., to publicly profess
ourselves to the world as disciples of Jesus
b. An interesting correlation, but one nowhere made in the
Scriptures!
2. If baptism were solely a public proclamation of one's faith...
a. What about the baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch? - Ac 8:
35-39
1) When he asked what might hinder him from being baptized,
why wasn't he told to wait until they got to town or
some public place?
2) The fact that he was baptized when it was just he and
Philip would imply that there is some other purpose for
baptism!
b. What about the baptism of the Philippian jailer and his
family? - Ac 16:25-34
1) They were baptized "immediately", after midnight and
before daylight
2) Why didn't Paul tell them to wait until a special
baptismal service could be held that was open to the
public, or at least to the church?
3. Both of these examples imply that the purpose of baptism is
for some reason other than a public profession of one's faith
a. There was a sense of urgency in both cases
b. Indeed, in every case where baptism is described in detail
in the book of Acts, it occurs immediately after one
lesson!
Whatever the purpose, it did not matter whether it was done
in public or in private
B. WHAT THE BIBLE TEACHES ABOUT BAPTISM...
1. When you are baptized into Christ, the Bible says:
a. You put on the Lord Jesus - Ga 3:26-27
b. Your sins are washed away - Ac 22:16
c. Your sins are remitted (forgiven) - Ac 2:38
d. You die to sin and are freed from sin - Ro 6:1-7
e. You are baptized into the body of Christ - 1 Co 12:13
f. You are saved through the resurrection of Christ, as you
make an appeal for a good conscience - 1 Pe 3:21
2. Here are some thought-provoking quotations from George
Beasley-Murray, Baptist scholar, in his book, Baptism In The
New Testament:
a. "In light of the foregoing exposition of the New Testament
representations of baptism, the idea that baptism is a
purely symbolic rite must be pronounced not alone
unsatisfactory but out of harmony with the New Testament
itself. Admittedly, such a judgment runs counter to the
popular tradition of the Denomination to which the writer
belongs..."
b. "The extent and nature of the grace which the New Testament
writers declare to be present in baptism is astonishing for
any who come to the study freshly with an open mind."
c. "...the "grace" available to man in baptism is said by the
New Testament writers to include the following elements:
1) forgiveness of sin, Ac 2.38 and cleansing from sins, Ac
22.16, 2 Co 6.11;
2) union with Christ, Ga 3.27, and particularly union with
Him in his death and resurrection, Ro. 6.3ff, Co 2.11f,
with all that implies of release from sin's power, as
well as guilt, and the sharing of the risen life of the
Redeemer, Ro 6.1-11;
3) participation in Christ's sonship, Ga 3.26f;
4) consecration to God, 1 Co 6.11, hence membership in the
Church, the Body of Christ, 1 Co 12.13, Ga 3.27-29;
5) possession of the Spirit, Ac 2.38, 1 Co 6.11, 12.13,
and therefore the new life in the Spirit, i.e.,
regeneration, Ti 3.5, Jn 3.5;
6) grace to live according to the will of God, Ro 6.1ff,
Co 3.1ff;
7) deliverance from the evil powers that rule this world,
Co 1.13;
8) the inheritance of the Kingdom of God, Jn 3.5, and the
pledge of the resurrection of the body, Ep 1.3f, 4.30.
(pp. 263-264)
3. Yes, when one comes to the Bible with an open mind, willing to
consider whatever the Bible says about baptism...
a. They will conclude with George Beasley-Murray that the idea
baptism is a purely symbolic rite:
1) Must be pronounced unsatisfactory!
2) Is out of harmony with the New Testament itself!
b. They will agree with Martin Luther, who...
1) In answer to the question, "What gifts or benefits does
Baptism bestow?", replied in his Small Catechism, "It
effects forgiveness of sins."
2) Also wrote concerning the sinner: "Through Baptism he
is bathed in the blood of Christ and is cleansed from
sins."
3) Again wrote: "To put it most simply, the power, effect,
benefit, fruit, and purpose of Baptism is to save."
4) In his commentary on Ro 6:3, wrote: "Baptism has been
instituted that it should lead us to the blessings (of
this death) and through such death to eternal life.
Therefore IT IS NECESSARY that we should be baptized
into Jesus Christ and His death."
c. And they will concur with Augustine, who...
1) Referring to the efficacy of baptism, wrote that "the
salvation of man is effected in baptism"; also, that a
person "is baptized for the express purpose of being
with Christ." 2) With regard to the necessity of baptism, refers to the
"apostolic tradition, by which the Churches of Christ
maintain it to be an inherent principle, that without
baptism...it is impossible for any man to attain to
salvation and everlasting life."
III. WHAT DIFFERENCE DOES IT MAKE?
A. SOME BOLDLY PROCLAIM IT MAKES NO DIFFERENCE...
1. That God will accept a baptism for a different purpose
2. That while a person may mistakenly think they were saved at
the point of believing, their sins are forgiven at the point
of baptism
3. Isn't this rather presumptuous on their part?
a. To speak for God?
b. When the Bible does not say what He will or will not do in
such cases?
B. BUT THERE IS A DIFFERENCE...
1. At best, it raises serious questions about one's obedience to
the gospel
a. Has one really obeyed Christ, if they responded to a
perversion of it?
1) Today, most people are told to simply repent and pray
2) But the apostles commanded people to repent and be
baptized - Ac 2:38
b. Can a person be taught wrong, and baptized right?
1) In Ac 19:1-5, we have a case of re-baptism...
a) John's baptism did not qualify as meeting the
conditions of Christ's baptism
b) Even though John's baptism was the will of God for a
short time
2) If John's baptism required re-baptism in the name of
Christ, how much more those who were not baptized for
the right purpose today?
2. At worst, there are some serious consequences!
a. People who sincerely think they are saved are still lost!
b. Preachers and teachers who say baptism has nothing to do
with salvation are teaching a perverted gospel! - cf. Ga
1:8-9
3. In any case, it will affect the way one preaches! Here is
Beasley-Murray again:
a. "First, there ought to be a greater endeavor to make
baptism integral to THE GOSPEL."
b. "It is taken as axiomatic amongst us that
the proclamation of the Gospel consists of making the
redemptive acts of God in Christ known and calling for
faith in Christ as the due response; baptism is then a
proper subject for exposition in the enquirers' class,
along with instruction as to the nature of the Church, of
worship, of Christian obligation in the Church and to the
world, etc."
c. "Peter's response, however, to the cry of his conscience
stricken hearers on the Day of Pentecost was not "Repent
and believe", but "Repent and BE BAPTIZED"! (Ac 2.38).
d. "Naturally faith was presumed in repentance, but Peter's
answer told the Jews how to become Christians: faith and
repentance are to be expressed in baptism, and SO they are
to come to the Lord."
e. "Baptism is here a part of the proclamation of Christ. In
an Apostolic sermon it comes as its logical conclusion."
f. "An effort ought to be made to restore this note in our
[Baptist] preaching."
CONCLUSION
1. To restore this note in one's preaching will certainly make a
difference!
a. Our response to the question "What shall we do?" will be similar
to Peter's response on Pentecost: "Repent...and be baptized!"
b. People will respond to our "preaching Christ" like the eunuch:
"Here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?"
2. Yet today, rarely do you hear in many churches...
a. A preacher commanding his audience like Peter did in Ac 2:38
b. A listener who just heard a gospel lesson ask the question the
eunuch did in Ac 8:36
c. A teacher telling a penitent believer what Ananias told Saul of
Tarsus: "And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized,
and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Ac
22:16)
The reason should be clear: Something's changed!
3. Yes, "The Purpose Of Baptism" is another "issue of distinction"...
a. For one's view on the purpose of baptism make a great difference
b. It affects our preaching, and it affects the souls of those who
hear us!
4. We must therefore...
a. Fully understand the distinction between such views on baptism
b. Make certain that our understanding is in harmony with the
Scriptures
c. Lovingly reach out to those who are in error
What is your understanding concerning baptism? Have you been baptized
for the purpose revealed in the Scriptures?
1) Referring to the efficacy of baptism, wrote that "the
salvation of man is effected in baptism"; also, that a
person "is baptized for the express purpose of being
with Christ." 2) With regard to the necessity of baptism, refers to the
"apostolic tradition, by which the Churches of Christ
maintain it to be an inherent principle, that without
baptism...it is impossible for any man to attain to
salvation and everlasting life."
III. WHAT DIFFERENCE DOES IT MAKE?
A. SOME BOLDLY PROCLAIM IT MAKES NO DIFFERENCE...
1. That God will accept a baptism for a different purpose
2. That while a person may mistakenly think they were saved at
the point of believing, their sins are forgiven at the point
of baptism
3. Isn't this rather presumptuous on their part?
a. To speak for God?
b. When the Bible does not say what He will or will not do in
such cases?
B. BUT THERE IS A DIFFERENCE...
1. At best, it raises serious questions about one's obedience to
the gospel
a. Has one really obeyed Christ, if they responded to a
perversion of it?
1) Today, most people are told to simply repent and pray
2) But the apostles commanded people to repent and be
baptized - Ac 2:38
b. Can a person be taught wrong, and baptized right?
1) In Ac 19:1-5, we have a case of re-baptism...
a) John's baptism did not qualify as meeting the
conditions of Christ's baptism
b) Even though John's baptism was the will of God for a
short time
2) If John's baptism required re-baptism in the name of
Christ, how much more those who were not baptized for
the right purpose today?
2. At worst, there are some serious consequences!
a. People who sincerely think they are saved are still lost!
b. Preachers and teachers who say baptism has nothing to do
with salvation are teaching a perverted gospel! - cf. Ga
1:8-9
3. In any case, it will affect the way one preaches! Here is
Beasley-Murray again:
a. "First, there ought to be a greater endeavor to make
baptism integral to THE GOSPEL."
b. "It is taken as axiomatic amongst us that
the proclamation of the Gospel consists of making the
redemptive acts of God in Christ known and calling for
faith in Christ as the due response; baptism is then a
proper subject for exposition in the enquirers' class,
along with instruction as to the nature of the Church, of
worship, of Christian obligation in the Church and to the
world, etc."
c. "Peter's response, however, to the cry of his conscience
stricken hearers on the Day of Pentecost was not "Repent
and believe", but "Repent and BE BAPTIZED"! (Ac 2.38).
d. "Naturally faith was presumed in repentance, but Peter's
answer told the Jews how to become Christians: faith and
repentance are to be expressed in baptism, and SO they are
to come to the Lord."
e. "Baptism is here a part of the proclamation of Christ. In
an Apostolic sermon it comes as its logical conclusion."
f. "An effort ought to be made to restore this note in our
[Baptist] preaching."
CONCLUSION
1. To restore this note in one's preaching will certainly make a
difference!
a. Our response to the question "What shall we do?" will be similar
to Peter's response on Pentecost: "Repent...and be baptized!"
b. People will respond to our "preaching Christ" like the eunuch:
"Here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?"
2. Yet today, rarely do you hear in many churches...
a. A preacher commanding his audience like Peter did in Ac 2:38
b. A listener who just heard a gospel lesson ask the question the
eunuch did in Ac 8:36
c. A teacher telling a penitent believer what Ananias told Saul of
Tarsus: "And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized,
and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Ac
22:16)
The reason should be clear: Something's changed!
3. Yes, "The Purpose Of Baptism" is another "issue of distinction"...
a. For one's view on the purpose of baptism make a great difference
b. It affects our preaching, and it affects the souls of those who
hear us!
4. We must therefore...
a. Fully understand the distinction between such views on baptism
b. Make certain that our understanding is in harmony with the
Scriptures
c. Lovingly reach out to those who are in error
What is your understanding concerning baptism? Have you been baptized
for the purpose revealed in the Scriptures?
