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Christian New Convert Course

First Principles
by
Dr. AmmarSaheli

Theme & Text: Exploration of the First Principles Defined: Hebrews 5:12-6:1-3

Ø Hebrews 5:12  For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13  For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14  But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Ø Hebrews 6:1  Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, 2  Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. 3  And this will we do, if God permit.

Introduction

Every Sunday school and Christian educational curriculum consists of many basic teachings but to be responsible the first principles in the book of Hebrews must be covered. In many Christian circles the terms first principles are alluded to but rarely are they defined. Some may feel that whatever appears to be simple and biblically academic is a first principle and not of strong meat. Someone once said the concepts in the plan of salvation (HBRCB) are the first principles. Concepts in the plan of salvation are included in the Hebraic look at the first principles (Belief, Repentance & Baptism), but it would be erroneous to believe that they are limited to that. The Hebrew writer provides the Bible student with a list of first principle concepts. This series of lessons is not designed to exclude every other teaching from being a first principle. However, its main thrust is to deal with the concepts that are clearly defined as first principles. The following concepts will be studied, learned, explored and explained in the six lessons listed below:

• Repentance
• Faith toward God
• Doctrine of Baptisms
• Laying on of Hands
• Resurrection of the Dead
• Eternal Judgment

Repentance

Lesson #1

Repentance Defined

Metanoia/Repent: Reformation. "A change or alteration of mind." It is a change of mind from evil to good or from worse to better."

Metanoeo/Repentance: To think differently or afterwards (Reconsider). "To repent with regret accompanied by a true change of heart toward God." "It signifies a change of mind consequent to retrospection, indicating regret for the course perused and resulting in a wiser view of the past and future."

Metamellomai/Repented: An ineffective repentance. To regret or feel remorse for the act, but having no effective change of heart or action. To feel regret because of the imminent consequence(s).

Without repentance people will perish (Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38). The baptism of repentance will be covered in the section (The Doctrine of Baptisms).

Scriptural Examples of Metaneo, Metanoia & Metamellomaa

· Metanoeo: Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19; Revelation 2:5

· Metanoia: 2 Corinthians 7:8-10; Acts 26:20; 2 Peter 3:9

· Metamellomai: Matthew 27:3-5

Conclusion

Repentance is a first Christian principle that must be understood because God judges the heart of man and woman (Acts 15:8) and repentance first takes place in the heart. The evidence of a repented believer is manifested when the child of God begins to deny self, take up his/her cross, and lay aside the weight and sin that results in a carnal course (Matthew 16:24; Hebrews 12:1).

Questions for Further Study & Discussion

Questions can be answered on a separate sheet of paper. Please type or write clearly.

1. In your own words and with scriptural support explain why repentance is essential to salvation?

2. Based on Greek terminology what is the difference between Metanoia & Metamellomai?

3. If Judas repented why did he commit suicide?

4. In 2 Corinthians 7:8-10 what feeling(s) did the message of Paul evoke in the Corinthian Christians and what did his message lead to?

5. In your own words and from a proper understanding of the Greek definitions, how would you describe repentance.

6. Circle the word that helps describe the mental thrust behind the term Metanoeo the best?

Ø Consequence

Ø Mourning

Ø Retrospection

Ø Metamellomai

7. What is God truly afte, Metanoeo or Metamellomai?

8. Bonus Question: Based on the Greek, in 2 Corinthians 7:8, did Paul repent or not? If

he did not, explain your answer. If he did repent what was it for?

Faith Toward God

Lesson #2

Along with the concept of repentance it is essential that all new converts have a firm grasp and understanding of the concept of faith. God through His Word provides the Christian and the Bible reader with a plurality of examples relating to faith. During the investigation of this second First Principle the necessity, purpose, meaning, and importance of faith will be observed.

Faith Defined & Illustrated

Pistis/Faith: Faith defined in the Greek language means to believe confidently in the divine truths of God to such a strong degree that it not only results in belief, but belief coupled with action.

The Hebrew writer (Hebrews 11:1) defines, from a Biblical perspective, the meaning and components of faith. Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. People operate under the notion of faith everyday. When a person sits in a chair or purchases some fast food they already have faith, believing the chair will hold them up and their food is free from various toxins and germs. Therefore, the person sits down without checking their chair, and eats their food without asking the manager pointed questions about the preparation of their meal.

To truly understand faith we must strive to understand two concepts:

• Substance of things hoped for
• Evidence of things not seen

When a person enters a four-way intersection in their vehicle they are approaching a situation that demands faith. This process involves two things that must work together: The traffic lights and the obedience of the other drivers. In this scenario, the “substance of things hoped for” rests in the hope that the traffic lights are working correctly and that the other vehicles will obey and stop at their red signal while you proceed through your green signal. “The evidence of things not seen” rests in the fact that you do not know what is in the mind of the other drivers, you do not know if there is a speeding drunk driver coming to run their red light, but because you have faith you can go through your green signal although you cannot necessarily see what everyone else is doing or thinking. However, because you have faith you can go though your green traffic signal with a confident hope that all other drivers will follow the rules of the road.

Using this example we can clearly understand why God instructs Christians to “Walk by faith and not by site” (2 Corinthians 5:7). If we have to see everything before we actually engage in it we have no faith in God and cannot please Him. Many people believe in God, but those who have faith toward God act and carry out the commands of the Almighty.

Scriptural Commentary on Faith Toward God & Its Necessity

When a child of God begins to lose faith their vision toward God becomes blurred and their walk in Christ becomes misguided. Peter was able to walk on water as long as he maintained his faith in Christ (Matthew 14:29). However, the minute Peter began to replace his faith with fear he began to sink and needed Christ to restore him. While Peter had faith he was able to walk on water. In others words his faith (belief in God) resulted in action which resulted in Peter walking on water.

The Hebrew writer informs the Bible reader that Christians cannot please God without faith (Hebrews 11:6). God can be pleased by and with His children but without faith it is an impossibility. Faith is such a critical part of Christianity that as Paul chronicled the spiritual clothing that makes up the Whole Armor of God (Ephesians 6:11) he said “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked” (v. 16). When Peter lost faith on the water he lost his protection because he was unable to please God. Our faith in knowing that all things will be alright for the Christian (Romans 8:28) acts as our shield of spiritual protection.

A Mere Believing Faith is not Enough

Some may believe that faith is simply believing that God is, and in essence that is partially true. Faith does consist of belief in God but that is not the totality of faith, it is simply a portion. A person who has faith toward God understands His will and therefore carries it out.

The epistle of James clearly illustrates that faith without works is dead (James 2:14-20). A Christian cannot claim to be holy simply because they believe God Is. There must be some evidence of faith. Faith plus works equals faith and faith without works equals no faith at all. When things get rough for the Christian the faithful continue to thrive and flourish in their Christianity and Christ-likeness because of their faith. When Paul was troubled and perplexed by his thorn in the flesh he continued in his faith toward God and grew stronger (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

Many people do not have various things they desire because they have no faith. Some people talk to God in prayer daily, but they do not believe God will provide. Again, James instructs us that even our prayer must be riddled and laced with faith (James 1:6). If the Christian does not believe God can provide, He will not. And it will not be because He cannot provide, it will be because the Christian does not believe He can provide.

Faith as a Crucial Component to Salvation

The Bible illustrates that the faith of the believer coupled with the grace of God, results in Christian salvation (Ephesians 2:8). Grace (the unearned favor God provides to an undeserving people) is His part and faith is the Christians embrace of God, His church, and His principles. “…For he that cometh to God must believe that he is and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” Hebrews 11:6).

The Developing of Faith

Faith toward God is simply developed through hearing the Word (Romans 10:17). People can easily sit in a chair or travel through a traffic signal because they have done it and they have seen people do it successfully on numerous occasions. Because of that, it helps them continue to believe they can successfully do the same thing.

Questions for Further Study & Discussion

Questions can be answered on a separate sheet of paper. Please type or write clearly.

1. How is faith developed?

2. What two elements does faith consist of?

3. Why does God command that we walk by faith and not by sight?

4. What piece of armor is faith referred to as and what scriptural text indicates that without faith God cannot be pleased?

5. In your own words define faith and write out an illustration of faith.

6. What two elements come together that results in Salvation for the Christian?

7. Why did Peter begin to sink after initially walking on water?

8. Bonus Question: Select two Bible figures from Hebrews chapter 11 and explain why their faithful acts were so great.

Doctrine of Baptisms

Lesson #3

In Hebrews 6:2 we find our third biblical first principle. In this third first principle the Hebrew writer is referring to water baptism(s), perhaps using plural terminology to illustrate the two main agents of Christian baptism, water and Spirit. The second possibility could be that the Hebrew writer, through the divine inspiration of God, was indicating that church members need to have a grasp of all forms of previous biblical baptisms, concluding with the fact that under the church dispensation there is only the baptism, baptism for the remission of sins. I believe both aspects and positions are noteworthy, but the latter provides the Christian student with a clear pattern of Gods plan and leaves the person with the ability to contend for the faith more perfectly. The Bible does speak of other types of baptisms in the Old and New Testaments, but it is clear that by the time of this writing (the book of Hebrews) there was one Lord, one faith and one baptism (Ephesians 4:5).

Non-Christian Baptisms Explored

First Corinthians 10:1-4 illustrates that the passing through of the Red Sea was a type of Israelite baptism for the Jews. In addition, the teaching and doctrine of Moses was a type of baptism for the Nation of Israel. The teaching of Moses, as given to him directly by God, was the way in which they learned to identify with the only true and living God (Deuteronomy 32:1-4). Moses likens his divine teaching of God as various forms of water encountering and covering God’s Old Testament people. The previous Mosaic passage resembles an action describing what Christ did for His bride/church, “That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word” (Ephesians 5:26).

Before Christ instituted baptism for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38), a man named John the Baptist, the second cousin of Jesus (Luke 1:36), paved the way for Christ to come, preaching the baptism of repentance (Matthew 3:11; Acts 19:1-5). Although the baptism of John the Baptist was a baptism in water it was not for the remission of sins (Mark 1:9-11).

If man and woman refuses to be baptized with the one baptism of today they will eventually receive the final baptism of Christ, but it will not be for salvation it will be for damnation. John the Baptist spoke of the baptism of repentance, baptism of the Holy Spirit and the baptism of fire (Matthew 3:11-12). Nobody wants to receive the baptism of fire because it will be the casting of disobedient and self-centered people into the lake of fire (Revelation 19:20; 20:10, 14-15, 21:8). The second death will be the sinner’s baptism of fire. This will be the immersing of the sinner into unquenchable fire for eternity.

Baptism Defined

• Baptized/Baptizo: To submerge and to make fully wet for a religious purpose. It is to be identified with Christ and His teaching as was the case with the Israelites (1 Corinthians 10:2). Example: Acts 2:41

• Baptism/Baptisma: The result of being dipped in water. It is the completed act of baptism, the physical and the spiritual. Example: Colossians 2:12

• Baptisims/Baptismos: Ablution & washing. Example: Hebrews 6:2

The Doctrine of Water Baptism Today

Around the time Ephesians 4:5 was recorded (A. D. 60-64) the church had been established for a few decades and only water baptism existed. Below is a list of all New Testament conversions. Each conversion/baptism consisted of the element water.

Ø Acts 2:38, 41 (First believers)

Ø Acts 4:4 (Second group of believers)

Ø Acts 8:12-13; 8:36-39 (Samaritans & Eunuch)

Ø Acts 9:18

Ø Acts 10:47-48 (House of Cornelius)

Ø Acts 16:15 16:33 (Lydia & household/Philippian Jailer & all his)

Ø Acts 18:8 (Crispus & household)

Ø Acts 19:1-5 (The 12)

There has been the age-old debate as to whether or not baptism is essential to salvation. Water baptism is a doctrine of Christ and is required for one to enter into the Kingdom of God (Mark 16:15-16; John 3:3-6; Acts 2:38). Many people are confused over the necessity of water baptism because they fail to make the connection between God’s Old and New Testament covenants. Although the Old Testament Law has been nailed to the cross (Colossians 2:13-14), the Old Testament scriptures speak to and compliment the New Testament (Isaiah 52:15).

Males of the Israelite Nation did not have to be baptized in water they had to be circumcised at the age of 8 days (Genesis 17:10-12). This was a necessity without option that indicated a male was a child of God. Circumcision marked him as Gods elect. The biblical connection is made between Old and New Testament scripture as evidenced by Colossians 2:11-12 which speaks of the spiritual circumcision known as baptism. Based on verse 12 of the above passage, through water baptism God operates on the penitent believer and washes their sins away.

The other element that is often missed in understanding the baptismal command is the purpose of blood. Under Old Testament Law it was the blood of sacrificed animals that atoned for the sins of Israel, i.e. Leviticus 16:20-30. In the New Testament it was is the blood of Christ that was shed for the remission of sins. The Hebrew writer said “And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22). The entire chapter 9 of the book of Hebrews speaks to the reality of the sacrifice and blood of Christ being more powerful and precious than that of animals. It is baptism that allows us to start a new life in Christ (Romans 6:4).

The Christian has been washed by the blood of Christ (Revelation 1:5). To understand the essentiality of baptism a person must realize they need to be washed and the methodology of the washing. For the Apostle Paul to enter into the Apostleship he had to be personally taught by Christ (Galatians 1:12) and baptized into the body of Christ. If baptism was necessary for a man as awesome as Paul, surely it is required for individuals today. In relationship to the methodology, God said to Paul, “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16). For Paul to become a Christian he had to be immersed into water for the remission of his sins. Not only is baptism essential, it has the spiritual ingredients to save (1 Peter 3:20-21).

The doctrine/teaching of baptism rests in the fact that it is of water and is also where the child of God receives the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; Romans 5:5; Titus 3:5).

Questions for Further Study & Discussion

Questions can be answered on a separate sheet of paper. Please type or write clearly.

1. What is the relationship between the concept of circumcision and baptism?

2. What two elements make up church-age baptism?

3. What passage(s) help explain that water baptism is essential?

4. What is the baptism of fire and what scripture explains it?

5. What was Paul instructed to do in relationship to his sins?

6. In relationship to baptisms, what took place in Acts 19:1-5?

7. How and when were the Israelites baptized?

8. Explain Romans 6:4

9. Explain 1 Peter 3:20-21

10. Bonus Question: Explain the atoning and remission of sin process between the Old and New Testament. In other words what method were used to atone remit sins and how do they correlate.

Laying on of Hands

Lesson #4

The biblical concept of laying on of hands is often perceived as a deep and weighted issue for members of the church, but the Hebrew writer categorizes it as a first principle. There is much religious confusion surrounding the concept of laying on of hands today. This lesson is designed to provide an historical New Testament look at the doctrine of laying on of hands.

The concept of laying on of hands cannot be discussed without mentioning the Holy Spirit. Many people in the world today believe they can receive the Holy Spirit or have received the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands. Some early New Testament Christians received certain spiritual gifts through having hands laid on them. The only two instances where individuals received spiritual gifts without being physically touched by someone were the apostles (Acts 2:1-4) and Cornelius and his house (Acts 10:44-48). These two incidents were related to each other and remain isolated from all miraculous gift giving accounts in the book of Acts.

Although the concept of laying on of hands was a real part of the early New Testament church history, it must be clearly understood that the first principle concept of laying on of hands no longer serves a purpose or has a function in God’s church today.

Laying on of Hands in the Book of Acts

In every case where someone had hands laid on them in the New Testament, where it resulted in a spiritual gift, the apostles did it. We do not have any New Testament biblical account of someone other than an apostle laying hands on someone with the result being the ability to perform a spiritual gift. Therefore the student of the Bible must answer the question as to where the apostles received their power.

· Acts 1:8  But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

· Acts 2:1  And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2  And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3  And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4  And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

The apostles were instructed to wait for the power and in Acts 2:1-4 they received the power and the immediate result was the ability to speak in tongues, prophesy, perform miracles and lay hands on others, providing them with similar abilities. Even while Christ was on earth He instructed His disciples that they would receive this Power: Mark 16:15  And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16  He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17  And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18  They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

The apostles received this special power and the book of Acts provides us with apostolic evidences of this special power:

· Acts 28:3  And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand. 4  And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live. 5  And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm. 6  Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.

People who believe they received the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands should also have the ability to drink poison without harmful effect, endure a venomous bite of a cobra, speak in earthly languages never studied, heal the sick and even raise the dead. Because of the Power, soon after Peter preached the church into existence he healed a cripple man at the temple gate called Beautiful (Acts 3:1-10). What kind of religious person has this ability today? The apostle Peter even brought a dead woman named Dorcas (Tabitha) back to life:

· Acts 9:40  But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41  And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.

The technical thing to understand with this first principle is that the people the apostles laid hands on could not in turn lay hands on others. This is vitally important to understand. Those who had hands laid on them could perform the apostolic gift, but they could not pass it on to another believer. Only the apostles had that ability. Look critically at the following two passages:

· Acts 6:5  And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: 6  Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

· Acts 8:12  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. 13  Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. 14  Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: 15  Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 16  (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 17  Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

Philip was ordained as a special servant in the church and along with six other servants had hands laid on him by the apostles. Because he had hands laid on him by the apostles, he was able to perform miracles (Acts 8:6). Although Philip could perform miracles he could not pass the ability to perform miracles on to anyone else. When Philip preached the gospel and baptized people in Samaria he had to wait for the apostles Peter and John to come from Samaria and lay hands on the people.

Although Philip could perform miracles he was not an apostle and could not impart a spiritual gift to anyone. When the apostles and the people they laid hands on died, miraculous gifts ceased in the church of our Lord. If a person believes they have the ability to perform a miraculous spiritual gift, who touched them? The apostles and the house of Cornelius received the ability of spiritual gifts from God, but the apostles physically touched everyone else.

More Scriptural Evidence

· Acts 19:1  And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, 2  He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. 3  And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. 4  Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. 5  When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6  And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

Additional Passages:

· 1 Corinthians 12:28-31

· 1 Corinthians 13:8-10

· James 1:25

· Ephesians 4:11-16

· 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6; 1 Timothy 5:22

Questions for Further Study & Discussion

Questions can be answered on a separate sheet of paper. Please type or write clearly.

1. How did the apostles receive the Holy Spirit and what passage explains it?

2. What happened to Cornelius and his house?

3. Who gave Cornelius and his house the ability to speak in tongues?

4. In the New Testament, who had the ability to lay hands on people on earth?

5. In what way can we lay hands on people today?

6. Who had to come and lay hands on the Samaritans?

7. What was the purpose of laying hands on people?

8. How did Paul prove Mark 16:18 to be true?

9. Who laid hands on Philip and for what purpose?

10. Bonus Question: Why did Cornelius and his house receive the ability to speak in tongues without having hands laid on them?

Resurrection of the Dead

Lesson #5

“The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection” (Matthew 22:23).

Introduction

The above statement captures the current sentiments of many people today. Although the Bible records the resurrections of men and women from the dead, several people fail to understand and believe. Although many people have difficulty understanding this phenomenon, and others flat out refuse to believe in God’s divine and authoritative power, God views this concept as a first principle. For God, the resurrection of the dead is a fundamental fact of Christianity. This first principle should not be of great debate, it is a simplistic principle of the Christian faith.

Jesus was approached by the Sadducees, a religious group of people who failed to believe in the resurrection of the dead (Matthew 22:23-33). Perhaps they presumed that God’s omnipotent power was limited. They asked Jesus a series of foolish questions, attempting to challenge His intellect and theological perspective. God has no problem with being challenged, for He wants to prove all things through His Word and power. Yet, the world would fare better if people would take heed to what God proves through His power and Word, the Bible.

A Discussion Regarding the Resurrection of the Dead

From Genesis to Revelation, God has given the world pieces of His revealed mystery (Colossians 1:26). Living in New Testament times, God’s revelation has been clearly revealed, excluding portions of the book of Revelation. However, God began preparing His children to understand and teach that one day there will be a resurrection.

Before and after Christ was resurrected the Bible provides examples of resurrected men and women. There were/are two things God was trying to reveal to the world, and now the church:

1. Christ would be resurrected before returning to heaven.

2. Man/woman will be resurrected before entering heavenly eternity.

Christian resurrection from the dead (at the return of Christ) is such a crucial component to Christianity, Paul informs the church that if resurrection from the dead is not a fact, Christians are dispositionally miserable, conditionally worshipping under a vain religion, teaching a false gospel.

· 1 Corinthians 15:12  Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13  But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: 14  And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 15  Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. 16  For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 17  And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18  Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 19  If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 20  But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21  For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.

Resurrection from the dead is a first principle of Christianity. Without a resurrection there is no ascension, and without ascension there is no judgment, and without a judgment there is no invitation to enter into the presence of God. The resurrection of Christ helps the Christian understand his/her necessity and reality of one day being resurrected. Paul indicated that he wanted to know the power of the resurrection of Christ so he could one day attain the same resurrection.

· Philippians 3:9  And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 11  If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

The concept of eternal judgment will be discussed in the next lesson, but before a person can be judged they must be resurrected. When Christ returns to judge the world, all of the dead will be resurrected. It will be the dead in Christ, or members of the church who will be resurrected first.

· 1 Thessalonians 4:16  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first.

When the world comes to an abrupt end there will still be some who are alive. The Bible clearly defines what will happen to those who may still be alive at the return of Christ.

· 1 Thessalonians 4:17  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

What an amazing scene: The resurrected dead and those alive being lifted up in the clouds of the air to meet the Lord. Some still may wonder about the mental condition of the living individuals being lifted in the sky. The Bible explains what will physically happen to these individuals in regards to their instantaneous preparation for the journey:

· 1 Corinthians 15:51  Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52  In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53  For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54  So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

Resurrection Examples

As stated before, the Bible provides pre and post resurrection examples to the death of Christ. Below you will find the resurrection of Lazarus (Before death of Christ) and the resurrection of Dorcas/Tabitha (After the death/ascension of Christ).

· Acts 9:40  But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41  And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. 42  And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.

· John 11:38  Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it. 39  Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days. 40  Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? 41  Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. 42  And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me. 43  And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. 44  And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.

The Purpose

Jesus Christ is the author and finisher of the Christian faith, and it was Christ who had to be resurrected before He could return to the right hand of God (Hebrews 12:2). The process of resurrection prepares the Christian and the non-Christian to meet God. Without the resurrection, God’s glory would never be fulfilled because His human creation would never know Him eternally.

· Luke 24:5 And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? 6  He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, 7 Saying, the Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.

Christ had to be resurrected to complete the redemption process for believing men and women and Christians will be resurrected to complete their salvation process, the meeting of God in judgment.

Questions for Further Study & Discussion

Questions can be answered on a separate sheet of paper. Please type or write clearly.

1. Who raised Tabitha from the Dead?

2. In what book and chapter can the resurrection of Tabitha be found?

3. How many days was Lazarus in the grave and who raised him from the dead?

4. At the return of Christ what will happen to the dead members of the church and in what text can it be found?

5. At the return of Christ what will happen to those still alive and in what text can it be found?

6. What will specifically happen to people at the sounding of the last trump?

7. Based on the words of Paul, if there is no resurrection what is the disposition of the Christian and condition of his/her religion?

8. Based on the Words of Christ in Matthew 22:23-33, what was His doctrine? Explain in your own words?

9. Bonus Question: How would you explain the theology of Christ in Matthew 22:23-33?

Eternal Judgment

Lesson #6

Introduction

After the return of Christ from heaven to the earth, judgment will begin. The student of the Bible must conclude that judgment will be executed in heaven, considering that the Lord will be met in the sky (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). What every Christian must be keenly aware of is that everyone will be judged. Eternal judgment is a critical first principle for the Christian to grasp because it continually reminds him/her that God is watching and is to be reverenced. Paul informed the Christians in Rome that every one of them would have to give an account of themselves to God: So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God (Romans 14:12).

Definitions that Help Explain Gods Character & Power

Omnipotent: Having all power.

Omnipresent: Being everywhere at the same time (Ubiquitous).

Omniscient: One who knows all.

The Plea

God has forewarned His church that she will be judged. God will critically analyze every Christian with respect to spiritual life management and stewardship. Even the daily speech of the Christian will be judged: But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment (Matthew 12:36). Therefore, God is urging and pleading with His children to live right so they can stand before Him boldly.

The Mental Conflict with the Concept of Judgment:

When the concept of judgment is discussed, it can be confusing for the Christian. The Christian is concerned with what he or she will be judged for. Sometimes the question arises “How can I be judged for something the blood of Christ washed away?” The only way to address the reality of judgment is through the Bible.

· 2 Corinthians 5:8  We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. 9  Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. 10  For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

Paul, addressing the Christians in the Corinthian church, clearly informed them that they would have to give an account to God according to the good and bad done in their bodies. Because of this statement, Christians must live circumspectly.

Eternal Judgment Will Not Be Escaped

Members of the church of Christ will not escape the judgment. As a matter of fact, the church will be judged first.

· 1 Peter 4:17  For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 18  And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?

On the day of judgment there will be no exemptions or excuses. It must be clearly understood that each person will give an account of Himself to God. This notion can help non-Christians understand that they need to make their calling and election sure regardless of the naysayer, slackers, or non-believers around them. Understanding the eminence of judgment should make a person more obedient to the commands of God. Based on the passage below, every knee will bow before God and confess to Him, whether the person believed in Him or not.

· Romans 14:8  For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. 9  For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. 10  But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. 11  For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. 12  So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

· Hebrews 9:27  And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: 28  So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

God has selected the means of preaching to introduce men and women to salvation. No one will escape the judgment, but Christians can be saved through the judgment. It is God who will judge the dead in Christ as well as those outside the church, at the end of time.

· 2 Timothy 4:1  I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2  Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

Every so-called Christian is not going to be granted access to heaven. Jesus said, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven (Matthew 7:21). One day the wheat will be separated from the chaff and the chaff will be consumed with unquenchable fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire (Matthew 3:12  ). Metaphorically, the sheep will be separated from the goats (Matthew 25:31-32). The people of God will be judged!

· Hebrews 10:30  For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.

Conclusion

In relationship to the opening definitions for this lesson, Gods sees all, knows all, and is all-powerful. Because of this, God will render to everyone according to his or her deeds. There will be no hiding, faking, fabricating, or escaping. No one will escape God’s eternal judgment.

· Romans 2:5  But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; 6  Who will render to every man according to his deeds:

Optional Questions for Further Study & Discussion

Questions can be answered on a separate sheet of paper. Please type or write clearly.

1. Who will be judged and in what passage is it explained?

2. Who will be judged first?

3. Explain the concept given in Matthew 7:21.

4. Explain the concept given in Matthew 3:12.

5. Explain the concept given in Matthew 25:31-32.

6. In Matthew 12:36 what will the judged give an account for?

7. Bonus Question: What do the characters represent in Matthew 25:31-32?

Christian New Convert Course

Some Secondary Principles
by
Dr. Ammar Saheli

The Love of God & The Love of the Christian

Lesson #1

Introduction

The concept of love is not mentioned as a first principle because it is an ideology that must be understood before or as a person comes to Christ. Whereas first principles may be doctrines honed after a person is added to the body of Christ. The manifested love of God, through His Son the Messiah, draws men and women to Him. In understanding the concept of love, three Greek terms must be defined: Agapao, Agape, Agapetos. In these three Greek terms the love of God is put into action toward His subjects, members of the church. Each Christian has been showered by the love of God and is striving to reciprocate the same love back to God and to humanity, especially those of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10). The complete basis of Christianity is solidified in love. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

Terminology Defined & Biblical Examples

Agapao: Love in action or love directed at the recipient. (Luke 6:27-28; John 14:15; Ephesians 5:25; Revelation 12:11)

Agape: The ultimate disposition of unconditional love. (1 Timothy 6:11; 1 John 2:15)

Agapetos: The subjects of Love. Particularly of God’s love, identified as the beloved. (Mark 1:11; Mark 9:7; 2 Thessalonians 2:13)

In understanding the above terminology, it becomes clear that for the Christian to please God, the love of God must dwell in him or her. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5). The duty of the Christian is to strive to be like God, and God is love. John the revelator said: “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love” (1 John 4:7-8).

A Closer Look at the Concept

In the two passages listed below, God reveals His multifaceted love. God is showing His disposition of love (Agape), His love in Action (Agapao), and the recipients or subjects of His love (Agapetos). From this framework, Christians understand that they are to have a constant heart of love that is to be put into action and directed toward others. Although the Greek term Agape is not used in John 3:16 it is apparent it was His unconditional love that caused Him to put His love into action toward the world. When a scriptural passage uses the term love several times it is a great asset to the Christian, in knowing the purpose of each term. It helps the believer see the direct intent and direction of God’s love.

· John 17:26  And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

· 1 John 4:10  Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11  Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

The Challenge

Members of the church are challenged with the task of being filled with love and finding ways to transform internal and dispositional love into action. The Christian must have love toward God, the brotherhood, and men and women in the world. If Christians love God they will keep His commandments (John 14:15). However much of a challenge keeping the commandments are to individual Christians, God expects it from all of His believers. Below are some pivotal passages on love that must always be considered and lived.

· 1 John 4:20  If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?

· Read Matthew 5:43-48

· Matthew 22:37  Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38  This is the first and great commandment. 39  And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

· Luke 11:42  But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

· John 14:23  Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.

· John 15:9  As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.

· Read Romans 8:35-39

Conclusion

Without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6) but faith works by love (Galatians 5:6).

Application & Discussion Questions

1. What is the Greek term for Christian love put into action?

2. What is the Greek term for the Christian disposition of unconditional love?

3. The subjects of God’s love are referred to as _________________ in the English language and ____________________ in the Greek language.

4. What does faith work by and what passage explains it.?

5. In John 3:16 which Greek Word is used to describe God’s love and which form of love is evident although not mentioned in the same text?

6. What can the child of God never be separated from and what passage explains it?

7. Deeper Study Question: On pages 1-2 under the “Closer Look” section, what Greek terms correspond with the underlined words.

A Brief Look At The Purpose & Methodology of Communion

Lesson #2

Introduction

In understanding the concept of “Communion,” three things must be understood:

1. Who initiated communion?

2. When is communion to be observed?

3. How is communion to be observed?

The Lord’s Supper Precedent

Matthew 26:17-30; Mark 14:12-25; Luke 22:7-20

The process of communion is not a concept that is up for debate. The participation in the sacred eating of the Lord’s Supper is a spiritual feast that was instituted by the Son of God. Jesus Himself installed the concept of “communion” during His earthly ministry. Jesus is the institutor of the communion process into the Christian religion. Because men and women are not the originators or authorizers of the “communion” process, they cannot regulate or change the when and how it is observed.

During the “Last Supper” Christ had with His disciples, He instructed them about the “communion” process. Christ was ready to be crucified, but he had one last meal with His disciples to teach them about the “communion” process. During this meal that soon became a sacred act of worship in the church of Christ, the Messiah and His disciples ate of unleavened bread and drank of the fruit of the vine. In Luke 22:19 the disciples were instructed to eat of the Lord’s Supper in “remembrance of Him.”

When Must Communion Be Observed?

Some religious denominations participate in “communion” once a month. Some denominations participate in “communion” every three months, six months, once a year, or not at all. Christ initiated the precedent of “communion”, therefore the day on which it is to be observed must be biblically defined (1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 Peter 4:11).

During the days when Christ physically walked the earth, the process of “communion” was not an act of worship. Christ was simply preparing His men, who would later instruct the church of when and how to spiritually worship God through “communion.”

Acts 20:7 indicates that the apostles met on Sunday for the purpose of worshipping God. Their worship included “communion” or the “breaking of bread.” The Greek reading of Acts 20:7 states, “…upon the first day of every week” and the same language is used in 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 in relationship to financial giving. Of course all the apostles were not in the same place for worship every week, but regardless of their location, every Sunday they worshiped God through the act of “communion.” Christians are commanded to follow the traditions and teachings of the apostles (2 Thessalonians 2:15). If the original preachers and Christians of the church participated in “communion” every Sunday, the same act of worship must remain constant and true today.

How Must Communion be Observed?

“Communion is a critical act of worship that every baptized believer must accurately offer to God every Sunday. The dispositional manner in which the “Lord’s Supper” is eaten is of high and supreme concern. Jesus instituted the act of “worship through communion” and said it is to be done in “remembrance of Him.” During the process of “communion” Jesus is the focus. The act of worship through “communion” gives the Christian an opportunity to reflect on the death and suffering of Christ, and engage in personal self-examination. Why would a child of God want to remember the death of Christ twelve, four, or one time a year. Through a formal act of worship, God expects for His Christian children to reflect upon and commemorate the death of Christ fifty-two times a year. It should be done every Sunday.

The Messiah said “communion” is an act of worship that allows the baptized believer to reflect upon His sacrificial death. However, when the church members in Corinth began to abuse the “communion” process, Paul rendered additional teaching on the command. In 1 Corinthians 11:23-30, the Apostle Paul provides the church with seven essentials that must be considered in worshiping God through the process of communion:

1. The worship focus must be on the remembrance of the death of Christ (v. 24).

2. The worship focus must be on the death of Christ every time “communion” is observed (v. 25).

3. Through “communion,” the death of Christ is commemorated and its duration is until He physically returns to earth (v. 26).

4. Those who observe communion with wrong motives and focus are charged and found guilty of murdering Christ (v. 27).

5. During the act of worship through “communion,” Christians must examine their relationship with Christ (v. 28).

6. Observing communion erroneously results in the drinking spiritual poison (v. 29).

7. Failure to observe “communion” according to scripture results in weak and dead Christians.

Conclusion

Worship through “communion is a serious ordeal that must be offered correctly. God has handed down the precedent, time, and methodology of “communion” to the church. Man can change no component of the act of worship through “communion.”

Application & Study Questions

1. Who instituted the concept of “communion,” and in what passages can it be found?

2. In the book of Luke, what did Christ say “communion” is designed for?

3. Whose traditions does the Bible proclaim Christians must follow and what passage explains it?

4. How can you scripturally prove when communion is to be observed?

5. (Complete the sentence) According to the scriptures, the Christian who takes “communion” with the wrong motive and focus is: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

6. Correlated with communion, why are some Christians weak and others dead?

7. What should the heart and mind of the Christian be focused on during “communion.”

8. The Christian who eats and drinks unworthily also consumes what?

9. What does the Christian physically eat during communion and how can you prove it?

The How's of Financial Giving in the church of Christ

Lesson #3

Introduction

In addition to the love a Christian has for keeping the commands of Christ (Matthew 14:15) and entreating his brothers and sisters in Christ, financial giving is a significant indicator of true spirituality. Of course giving alone means nothing, but most sincere spiritual Christians are good and cheerful givers.

In this lesson the concept of giving will be explored from and Old and New Testament perspective. However, in short, the attitude Christians should have in relationship to giving is summed up in the first miracle of Christ (John 2:1-10). If Christians are to be like Christ they must give like Christ. When Jesus turned water into wine He did two special things. Although it was not His wedding reception He:

1. Commanded that the six water pots be filled to the brim (v.7).

2. He saved the best for last, going against the custom (v. 10).

From this behavior of Christ it is evident that He did not operate from a bare minimum attitude and He gave of His best. Once a Christian understands that his/her financial offering is to God, it should reduce scantly giving and bring purpose and joy.

Our Giving is an Offering to God Before it is an Offering to Anyone Else

Ø Numbers 15:19  Then it shall be, that, when ye eat of the bread of the land, ye shall offer up an heave offering unto the LORD. 20  Ye shall offer up a cake of the first of your dough for an heave offering: as ye do the heave offering of the threshingfloor, so shall ye heave it. 21  Of the first of your dough ye shall give unto the LORD an heave offering in your generations.

Ø Numbers 18:11  And this is thine; the heave offering of their gift, with all the wave offerings of the children of Israel: I have given them unto thee, and to thy sons and to thy daughters with thee, by a statute for ever: every one that is clean in thy house shall eat of it. 12  All the best of the oil, and all the best of the wine, and of the wheat, the firstfruits of them which they shall offer unto the LORD, them have I given thee. 13  And whatsoever is first ripe in the land, which they shall bring unto the LORD, shall be thine; every one that is clean in thine house shall eat of it.

Ø Leviticus 19:23  And when ye shall come into the land, and shall have planted all manner of trees for food, then ye shall count the fruit thereof as uncircumcised: three years shall it be as uncircumcised unto you: it shall not be eaten of. 24  But in the fourth year all the fruit thereof shall be holy to praise the LORD withal. 25  And in the fifth year shall ye eat of the fruit thereof, that it may yield unto you the increase thereof: I am the LORD your God.

Ø Leviticus 27:30  And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD'S: it is holy unto the LORD. 31  And if a man will at all redeem ought of his tithes, he shall add thereto the fifth part thereof. 32  And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, even of whatsoever passeth under the rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.

Ø Malachi 3:6  For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. 7 Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return? 8  Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. 9  Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. 10  Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

Ø Exodus 30:11  And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, 12  When thou takest the sum of the children of Israel after their number, then shall they give every man a ransom for his soul unto the LORD, when thou numberest them; that there be no plague among them, when thou numberest them. 13  This they shall give, every one that passeth among them that are numbered, half a shekel after the shekel of the sanctuary: (a shekel is twenty gerahs:) an half shekel shall be the offering of the LORD. 14  Every one that passeth among them that are numbered, from twenty years old and above, shall give an offering unto the LORD. 15  The rich shall not give more, and the poor shall not give less than half a shekel, when they give an offering unto the LORD, to make an atonement for your souls. 16  And thou shalt take the atonement money of the children of Israel, and shalt appoint it for the service of the tabernacle of the congregation; that it may be a memorial unto the children of Israel before the LORD, to make an atonement for your souls.

Ø Exodus 35:4  And Moses spake unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying, This is the thing which the LORD commanded, saying, 5  Take ye from among you an offering unto the LORD: whosoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it, an offering of the LORD; gold, and silver, and brass, 6  And blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine linen, and goats' hair,

Ø Exodus 35:21  And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the LORD'S offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments. 22  And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing hearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold: and every man that offered offered an offering of gold unto the LORD.

Ø Deuteronomy 16:16  Three times in a year shall all thy males appear before the LORD thy God in the place which he shall choose; in the feast of unleavened bread, and in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles: and they shall not appear before the LORD empty: 17  Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD thy God which he hath given thee.

Ø Ezekiel 48:14  And they shall not sell of it, neither exchange, nor alienate the firstfruits of the land: for it is holy unto the LORD.

Ø Luke 21:1  And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. 2  And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. 3  And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: 4  For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had.

The Financial Levitical Priesthood Support as well as that for the Stranger, Fatherless, and Widow was Kept in the House and in the Third Year Set out for the Levites to Collect

Ø Deuteronomy 14:27  And the Levite that is within thy gates; thou shalt not forsake him; for he hath no part nor inheritance with thee. 28  At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay it up within thy gates: 29  And the Levite, (because he hath no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest.

The Custom and Command for Keeping the Financial Support in the Home was Changed by God when Israel Began Neglecting its Ministers and Servants, Due to Slothfulness, Unconcern and Greed

Ø Nehemiah 13:10  And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field. 11  Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place. 12  Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries. 13  And I made treasurers over the treasuries, Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah: and next to them was Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and their office was to distribute unto their brethren.

To Remedy the Neglect, the Storehouse Custom was Introduced

Ø Malachi 3:10  Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

The Storehouse Custom Continues Under New Testament Teaching

Ø Acts 4:34  Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35  And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. 36  And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, 37  Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

Ø Acts 5:1  But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2  And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

Ø 1 Corinthians 16:1  Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. 2  Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.

God Blesses the Christian According to His/Her Giving in Service and Financial Support for the Spreading of the Gospel

Ø Ezekiel 44:30  And the first of all the firstfruits of all things, and every oblation of all, of every sort of your oblations, shall be the priest's: ye shall also give unto the priest the first of your dough, that he may cause the blessing to rest in thine house.

Ø 2 Corinthians 9:6  But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7  Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Ø Galatians 6:7  Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 8  For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

Who is the church Obligated to Financially Support

It is more blessed to give than to receive. Everyone who is in legitimate need should be helped, however, the Bible stipulates that every congregation is commanded to support the following people:

1. Preachers—1 Corinthians 9:11-14

2. Bishops/Elders/Pastors—1 Timothy 5:17

3. Widows Indeed—1 Timothy 5:16

How Much Should I Give?

Under the Old Testament (Covenant) God instructed His children to Tithe. In other words they had to give a tenth of their earnings. Today the church is under a new and better covenant. God is not commanding the church to tithe but he is commanding the church to give. Hebrews 7:22 & 8:6 lets Christians know that they are under a better covenant. Matthew 5:20 indicates that New Testament righteousness must exceed that of the Old Covenant. If the Israelites gave a tenth it may be a good practice for Christians to give more than a tenth. What argument would any Christian use to give less than that?

In the Old Testament the Nation of Israel gave a 10% and in the New Testament the woman in Luke 21:4 gave 100%. As Christians we should be able to find ourselves somewhere in between these two guides. Ultimately God is looking for a cheerful giver who has preplanned his/her giving to Him (2 Corinthians 9:7). God has prepared our blessings and we are commanded to prepare our giving ahead of time.

Application & Discussion Questions

1. Which Israelite tribe were the 11 remaining Israelite tribes obligated to financially support and why?

2. How did the Levites, widows, and strangers collect their support?

3. Who is the Christian financial offering initially to?

4. Explain the storehouse custom and why it was instituted?

5. What role did Nehemiah play in instituting this custom?

6. Pertaining to financial giving, what attitudes can be obtained from the first miracle of Christ?

7. What kind of guides can be used to determine how much a Christian should give?

8. How does God inform the Christian that he/she will be blessed through financial giving?

9. Who is the church obligated to financially support?

The Power of Prayer

Lesson #4

Prayer is a major element in the life of the Christian. It is through prayer that the child of God is able to communicate with Him. Under Old Testament law the privilege was not assigned to every believer, only to the high priest. Today as Christians we are truly blessed because we can breakdown and talk to God without end.

A successful prayer life is dependent upon a proper address to the Father as well as faith in Him. In looking at Luke 11 we find an example of prayer as given by Christ. What we gleam from this is how to open a prayer. The opening and closing of prayer is critical. Colossians 3:17 informs the church in how to close a prayer. It is always in the name of Jesus.

Once a Christian learns how to open and close a prayer it is time to realize its importance. In Ephesians 6:18 the apostle Paul instructs the church in how to bring the complete armor of God together. It is through prayer. Notice, as well, the criticalness of faith in the previous verse.

Because we have the ability to pray we must use it for self and others. While Peter was imprisoned the church prayed for his release (Acts 12:5). We can participate in the healing process of self and others through prayer (James 5:13-16).

Without faith God cannot be pleased and prayers cannot be answered. Faith is a must in prayer life. We must believe that God has the power to deliver (James 1:5-7).

Prayer is so beautiful and powerful that we engage in it to overcome obstacles, and we pray about all things continually (Psalms 109:1-5; Matthew 5:43-46; Philippians 4:6; Acts 6:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Application & Discussion Questions

1. What scripture instructs us in how to open a prayer?

2. How do we close a prayer?

3. What scripture instructs us in how to close a prayer?

4. Who prayed for Peter while he was in Jail? What passage?

5. How can we participate in the healing process of others?

6. What brings the complete armor of the Christian together, and what passage addresses it?

7. Why is James 1:5-7 critical to Christian understanding?

8. Where can the Lords true prayer be found?

Understanding & Explaining My Salvation and the Church of the Bible

Lesson #5

The Prerequisite

Many souls have been introduced to Christ, but only a few are able to stay the course. Before a believer in Christ is baptized, he/she must count the cost of Christianity. Too often people are baptized without counting the sacrificial price of Jesus. Paul had to remind and warn the church in Rome about being a “living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1-2). The preaching and teaching of the gospel and doctrine of Christ for the purpose of salvation, must include the supreme cost of Christian sacrifice, perseverance, and triumphant struggle.

In Luke 14:25-35, Jesus described the attitude and behavior a person must have before they become a Christian. In essence, they must love God more than anything else and be willing to pick up and bear their cross (Matthew 6:33). The individual who is not willing to prioritize God as first in everything, is not ready to become a saved child of God. Becoming a Christian is about denying self on a daily basis of sinful desires (Luke 9:23). It is an embarrassment and slap in the face of God for a believer to start the course of Christianity and turn back or give up. Jesus stipulates that this kind of person is not worthy of heaven (Luke 9:57-62). Individuals seeking a real relationship with the God of heaven must know that it takes sacrifice and demands loving him more than husband, wife, mother, father, son, daughter, job, car, house, etc (Matthew 16:24-26; Mark 8:34-37).

The Church and Salvation

Everything that the Christian believes is predicated on the Word of God. The belief system of the church is founded upon the teachings of Christ (John 1:1; 17:20). The bedrock of Christ is the Christian foundation and it cannot be changed by terrestrial beings (1 Corinthians 3:10-11). The way to Christ must be biblically proven for spiritual quality insurance.

Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners from condemnation (John 3:16-17). Because of the earthly purpose of Christ, sinners must be taught the divine methodology of “coming to Christ.” If Jesus came save people, men and women must figure out what they need to do to be saved. Scripturally, the purpose of Christ entering the world can be summed up in two passages or concepts (Matthew 16:18; John 3:16-17). Primarily Jesus came to save individuals willing to obey the gospel through the church he promised to build.

Jesus came to save sinners and build His church. There is a critical connection between Christ saving the world and building His church. When Jesus promised to build His church in Matthew 16:18, He had not yet built his church. At that time, Christ had not died or purchased the church (Acts 20:28).

Through the sacrificial death and bloodshed of Christ, He purchased the church and paid for the transgressions of sinners (Romans 5:17-19). The connection between the salvation of Christ and His church is that God saves sinners by adding them to the church. To understand a person being added to the church, one must know what the church is. The Bible clearly reveals that the church is the body of Christ. The body of Christ and the church of Christ are synonymous (1 Corinthians 12:12; 12;27; 1:18, 24). To be saved, a person must be added to the body of Christ, which is the church. Christ promised to build His church and came into the world to save individuals willing to obey Him.

In understanding that Christ came to save, and realizing He saves through adding a person to the church, a person might ask the question, “What must I do to be saved.” As mentioned before, in Matthew 16:18, Christ had not yet built His church. However, after His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension to His heavenly Father, “…the Lord added to the church daily, such as should be saved” (Acts 2:47). If Christ came into the world to save sinners from condemnation and the church is now in existence (Acts 2:47), where are the saved people? Jesus did not say He came to save the saved, He came to save sinners and all men and women are sinners before being washed by the blood of Christ. Therefore, what spiritually happens to people once they are saved? Unlike Matthew 16:18 and John 3:16-17, when the words were recorded in Acts 2:47, the church Jesus promised to build was in existence because men and women were being added to “it.”

If a person is saved from condemnation (John 3:17) through being added to the church, what does a person need to do to be added to the church? In looking at actual examples of men and women being added to the church, the book of Acts must be observed. The Book of Acts is in essence the book of Action. It is the divine book of the Bible that illustrates that “Acts” of the apostles, and the salvation process that resulted in early New Testament men and women becoming Christians.

The church began in Jerusalem around A.D. 33 on the day of Pentecost. The earthly introduction of the body of Christ to the world began at the beginning of Acts 2. Around Acts 2:14, the Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Peter preached a sermon that exposed and introduced the world to the church and salvation. In Acts 2:36 Peter informed the Jews that the Jesus they murdered had been made Lord and Christ by the God of heaven. They feared for their lives and in Acts 2:37 they were touched in their hearts and said to Peter and the other eleven apostles, “…Men and brethren, what shall we do?” In essence, they were asking what they needed to do spiritually to be saved from the condemnation of their sins. The response that Peter provided is critical to a person understanding the salvation process. I would imagine that these question petitioners were honest and sincere, therefore Peter gave them a sincere answer.

Peter gave them a formula for salvation that remains true for every believer of Christ who wants to be saved from the condemnation of their sins. Peter answered their question: “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” (Acts 2:38). Based upon the sermonic guidance of Peter, 3,000 people were added to the church on that day. There was no earthly church before that day and Jesus started no other church after that day. They were instructed to repent and be baptized for the purpose of having their sins washed away. Through the completion and obedience of that process, they became saved through the safety of the church (1 Peter 3:20-21).

New Testament books such as Romans, Corinthians, Galatians, etc, fail to provide a biblical student with specific information concerning salvation attainment. The aforementioned books were written to men and women who had already been baptized and were members of the church. However the book of Acts gives us specific information on the physical behavior that must ensue, coupled with salvation. Every convert in the Book of Acts was baptized in water before becoming a member of the body of Christ. Jesus Christ came to save the world from condemnation and He does it through adding believers to His church.

The psychological and physical conversion process is illustrated in the book of Acts. In Acts several souls were added to the church of Christ. Observe the Table below:

Text	Subject(s)	Conversion Details
Acts 2:38, 41	Jews on Pentecost	3,000 souls baptized and added to the church.
Acts 4:4	Believers in Jerusalem	5,000 men added to the church.
Acts 8: 12-13	The Samaritans and Simon the Sorcerer	Taught & baptized by Philip.
Acts 8:29-39	The Ethiopian Eunuch	Taught & baptized by Philip.
Acts 9:18; 22:16	Saul of Tarsus	Taught & Baptized by Christ.
Acts 10:44-48	Cornelius & his family	Taught & baptized by Peter.
Acts 16:14-16	Lydia & her family	Taught and baptized by Paul & Luke
Acts 16:25-33	The jailor and his house	Taught and baptized by Paul.
Acts 19:1-6	Apollos & his men	Taught & baptized by Paul.

In all of the conversion examples listed above, baptism was the culminating act of earthly salvation. Romans 6:4 commands baptism, but Acts 8:36 informs the student of the Bible that the element of immersion is water. When a person is baptized correctly they are added to the only church that can be read about in the Bible. A person cannot be added to the church without obeying the gospel of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; 2 Corinthians 4:1-4). Baptism is for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38). A person cannot be saved without their sins being forgiven.

Baptism is the final process of baptism but there are four steps that must commence before baptism. In all of the conversion examples in the book of Acts, the believers were taught the Word of God. Before a person can be baptized they must hear the Word (Romans 10:17). After hearing the preached Word, the student must believe it (Mark 16:15-16; Hebrews 11:6). After believing and hearing the Word of God, the student must repent (Luke 13:3, 5). Repentance is a psychological and physical process of change. Psychological and behavioral change must commence before a soul can be baptized for the remission of their sins. After hearing, believing, and repenting, the student must confess their belief in Christ as the Son of God (Acts 8:37; Romans 10:9-10). After the four-step process, a persona can be baptized and God will add them to the body of Christ.

Application & Discussion Questions

1. Prior to baptism, what kind of attitude must a believer have?

2. What will a Christian have to do and bear, and what does it mean?

3. What did Jesus enter the world for and which passages explain it?

4. Where are the saved people today?

5. Was the church in existence while Christ walked the earth?

6. According to the lesson, what happened on the day of Pentecost?

7. Can a person be a member of the church before baptism? Why or why not?

8. What are believers baptized for?

9. Who preached the sermon that brought the church into a physical existence?

10. By the time of Acts 4:5, how many people were members of the church”

11. How many churches belong to Christ and how can you prove it with scripture?