Outline from Sunday December 30 - with verses

Here is the outline from last Sunday with the verses we reviewed. Have a great week! We will start experiencing God next week!

Scripture, God, and Christ
· Scripture is ONE book written by the same author - Hebrews 1:1-2
· Christ is God - Hebrews 4:14-16
· All is made by Christ - Colossians 1:15-16
· All is paid by Christ - Philemon 18

Struggle with Sin and ‘our kingdom’
· What is Christ’s blameless example? What do will we struggle with? - Matthew 5:3-12
· Continuous spiritual dangers -
o Danger of Neglect - Hebrews 2:1-4
o Danger of Unbelief - Hebrews 3:7-4:13
o Danger of Immaturity - Hebrews 5:11-6:20
o Danger of Failing to Endure - Hebrews 10:26-39
· On this earth we will never be at peace with others - 2 Kings 17:6
· We will have corrections from Him and even through unbelievers - 2 Kings 25:8-10

Living in His Kingdom
· Lay down our sin which so easily ensnares us - Hebrews 12:1-2
· We should stay focused on Him - 2 Kings 22:2
· We should not be deceived - Colossians 2:8
· Acting towards Believers - Colossians 3:12-13
· Acting towards un-Believers - Colossians 4:5-6 and Philemon 6
· Don’t be a slave - be a brother in the LORD - Philemon 16

Class Notes and Questions for December 23, 2007

Hello All!

I am very excited about this Sunday. While we will have many gone on trips I am sure we will have visitors as well. Please pray for those both new to the area as well as those visiting. Coming closer to God is not just ‘good’ or ‘important’ at this time of year, it is fundamental to the type of life we live now and forever. I pray to the Lord thanksgiving for each of you and what you mean to Kenna and I and our family. It is a true blessing from God our father that you all are our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Please note we will be finishing Philemon this week. Verses 23 to 25 will be our key verses. If you were unable to be with us last week please do read through the first 22 verses. If you need your name added to the class email list please let us know your email address this Sunday and we will add it.

So, class notes and questions for this week:

Read Philemon 23-25 –

What stands out as the most important item for these verses?

Read Philemon 23 again out loud –

Is Epaphrus a prisoner? Of what?

What does it mean to ‘send greetings’?

Who are these greetings sent to? (See v1-3)

Read Philemon 24 –

Who is Mark? What is Mark’s occupation/job?
Who is Aristarchus? What is his occupation/job?
Who is Demas? What is his occupation/job?
Who is Luke? What is his occupation/job?

How is Paul a fellow worker of each of these people? What work is it that he is talking about?


Read Philemon 25 –

Write this entire verse down (do it slowly) and think about each word separately as you write it.


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What is Grace?

Why does Paul call out Jesus Christ as ‘Lord’? Why can or should He be called that? Read Hebrews 1:5-13, 3:1-6, Luke 5:24, Luke 1:32-33, Matthew 8:26, John 7:28, John 3:18, John 8:19, Luke 10:17-18, Revelation 1:5-6, Hebrews 7:26-28, John 1:1-18

What is ‘Grace of the Lord Jesus Christ’? Is there a difference between this and generally ‘grace’?


What does it mean to ‘be with your spirit’? Read Hebrews 10:22-24


In Summary –

What is it that Paul told Philemon and what did he appeal to him about? What attitude should Philemon have and why?

How should we treat, understand, accept, other Christian brothers/sisters?

What is it that Christ told YOU and what did He appeal to you about?

Do you have ‘the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ’ in ‘your spirit’? How do you know?

What circumstances are you in right now? In prison? A Slave? A rich aristocrat? A fraud? A doctor? A minister? An apostle? All of these are in Philemon. All of these are called and encouraged to be ‘fellow workers in Christ’. What is holding you back?

We will begin ‘Experiencing God’ on January 6, 2008. Please do the following:

Pray for the study to be fully glorifying our Lord and specifically that nothing would hinder people coming closer to the Lord or being saved through this study.
Pray for the Lord to guide you through the study and lean on Him for understanding and a willing heart.
Pray for the Lord to lead you to anyone that He would like to be there. If you know someone or
Pick up a book this week or next if you haven’t already. Pray over the material a look through it ahead of time.

We celebrate the savior’s birth and the fulfilling of over 300 prophecies next week. Let us not forget this week that it was Christ himself that told us He must come as a man to fulfill and show us the HE IS GOD. “Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms.” (Luke 24:44). He, in one man, fulfilled that 1 in 83 Billion chance that all these prophecies would be fulfilled. Praise to the Lord for again showing us He is sovereign throughout the ages.

Have a wonderful week in praising Him,

Andrew

Why did God send Jesus when He did? Why not earlier? Why not later?

I saw this posted this week and thought it would be great to add to the blog. Please note it comes from gotquestions.org:

Question: "Why did God send Jesus when He did? Why not earlier? Why not later?"Answer: "But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law," (Galatians 4:4). The above verse declares that God the Father sent His Son when “the fullness of time had come.” There were many things occurring at the time of the first century that, at least by human reasoning, seem to make it ideal for Christ to come then. These include the following:

1) There was a great anticipation that the Messiah would come among the Jews of that time. The Roman rule over Israel made the Jews hungry for the Messiah’s coming.

2) Rome had unified much of the world under its government, giving a sense of unity to the various lands. Also, because the empire was relatively peaceful, travel was possible by the early Christians to spread the gospel that would not have been possible during other times.

3) While Rome had conquered militarily, Greece had conquered culturally. A “common” form of the Greek language (different from classical Greek) was the trade language and was spoken throughout the empire, making it possible to communicate the gospel to many different people groups through that one common language.

4) The fact that many people’s idols had failed to give them victory over the Roman conquerors caused many to abandon their worship. At the same time in the more “cultured” cities, the Greek philosophy and science of the time left others spiritually empty in the same way that the atheism of Communist governments leaves a spiritual void today.

5) The mystery religions of the time emphasized a savior-god and required worshipers to offer bloody sacrifices, thus making the gospel of Christ, involving one ultimate sacrifice, not unbelievable to them. The Greeks also believed in the immortality of the soul (but not of the body).

6) The Roman army recruited soldiers from among the provinces, introducing these men to Roman culture and to ideas (such as the gospel) that had not reached those outlying provinces yet. The earliest introduction of the gospel to Britain was the result of the efforts of Christian soldiers stationed there.

Again, the above statements are based on men looking at that time and their speculation why that particular point in history was a good time for Christ to come. But we understand that God’s ways are above our ways and these may or may not have been some reasons for why He chose that particular time to send His Son. From the context of Galatians 3 and 4, it is evident that God sought to lay a foundation through the Jewish Law that would prepare for the coming of the Messiah. The Law was meant to help people understand the depth of their sinfulness (in that they were incapable in keeping the Law) so that they might more readily accept the cure for that sin in Jesus the Messiah (Galatians 3:22-23; Romans 3:19-20). The Law also served as a “tutor” (Galatians 3:24) to bring people to Jesus as the Messiah. It did this through its many prophecies concerning the Messiah which Jesus fulfilled. Add to this the sacrificial system that pointed to the need for a sacrifice for sin as well as its own temporary nature (with each sacrifice always requiring later additional ones). Old Testament history also painted pictures of the person and work of Christ through several events and religious feasts (such as the willingness of Abraham to offer up Isaac or the details of the Passover during the exodus from Egypt, etc.).Lastly, Christ came when He did in fulfillment of specific prophecy. Daniel 9:24-27 speaks of the “seventy ‘weeks’” or the seventy “sevens.” From the context, these “weeks” or “sevens” refer to groups of seven years, not seven days. We can examine history and line up the details of the first sixty-nine weeks (the seventieth week will take place at a future point). The countdown of the seventy weeks begins with “the going forth of the command to restore and build Jerusalem" (verse 25). This command was given by Artaxerxes Longimanus in 445 B.C. (see Nehemiah 2:5). After 7 “sevens” plus 62 “sevens,” or 69 x 7 years, it states that “Messiah shall be cut off, but not for Himself and that the city and the sanctuary would be destroyed” and that the “end of it shall be with a flood” (meaning major destruction) (verse 26). Here we have an unmistakable reference to the Savior’s death on the cross. A century ago in his book The Coming Prince, Sir Robert Anderson gave detailed calculations of the sixty-nine weeks, using ‘prophetic years,’ allowing for leap years, errors in the calendar, the change from B.C. to A.D., etc., and figured that the sixty-nine weeks ended on the very day of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, five days before His death. Whether one uses this timetable or not, the point is that the timing of Christ’s incarnation ties in with this detailed prophecy recorded by Daniel over five hundred years beforehand.The timing of Christ’s incarnation was such that the people of that time were prepared for His coming, and the people of every century since then have more than sufficient evidence that Jesus was indeed the promised Messiah through His fulfillment of the Scriptures that pictured and prophesied His coming in detail.

Class Notes for December 16, 2007

Hello!

There are many emotions and thoughts for people in the weeks before and after Christmas. Some of these thoughts are of the past, relatives, loved ones, and even traditions. Many find Christmas to be stressful, concerning, and a strain on their patience and relationships. Please pray for this this week. I don’t want to distract you from the prayer list however I know that as I was ‘out and about’ this week that many are yearning for the PEACE of the Lord and it is NOT apparent in the malls or even at the ‘Christmas’ parties.

We pick up this week in Philemon v 14. Please take a moment if you haven't already and read the entire book of Philemon. 25 verses shouldn't take too long but we want to be in context when we review this week.

Please read verse 1-13 and reflect on what Paul is discussing. What main points and conclusions would you gather if this was directed at you specifically?

Read v 14-22

Read v 14 -

Paul moves even further than ensuring whatever he says is not an order (v.8). What favor is it that Paul would like or is talking about (v 13)?

Read v 15 -

Paul gives some speculation on what Onesimus ran away – an overarching reason. What is it?

Before you go to v 16 – Have you ever been separated from someone? What does that feel like when you are reunited? How does God see it when we come to Him? Speculate…

Read v 16 -
How has the relationship between Onesimus and Philemon changed? What is the cause for the change? In v . 10 and v. 12 Paul talks of his relationship to Onesimus. How can Onesimus’ relationship be ‘even dearer’ to Philemon?

Read v 17 -

When Onesimus was with you (again pretend you are Philemon) why would Paul say he was 'useless'? Why is he now useful to both you and to Paul? What is the change? Is the change internal, external?

Read v 18 -

What is Paul doing in this verse?

Read v 19 –

Read this verse outloud. What are the two messages tied together here?

Read v 20 –

Tie this to the last 2 verses. What is Paul saying as to WHY Philemon should take Onesimus back as a ‘brother in the Lord’?

Read v 21 –

Confidence is important – What is Paul telling Philemon and why?

Read v 22 –

Why would Paul say this?

I look forward to all those that can make it Saturday night. We will pray for each of you this week. Take care!

Andrew

Question about Slavery

We had a question in class as we are going through Philemon about slavery and what the Bible has to say on it. I have attached the below that may be useful in answering that question:

There is a tendency to look at slavery as if it was something of the past. It is estimated that there are today 12.3 million people in the world who are subject to slavery: forced labor, sex trade, inheritable property, etc. For more information, please visit - http://www.state.gov/g/tip/rls/tiprpt/2006/. As those who have been redeemed from the slavery of sin, followers of Jesus Christ should be the foremost champions of ending human slavery in the world today. The question arises, though, why does the Bible not speak out strongly against slavery? Why does the Bible, in fact, seem to support the practice of human slavery.The Bible does not specifically condemn the practice of slavery. It gives instructions on how slaves should be treated (Deuteronomy 15:12-15; Ephesians 6:9; Colossians 4:1), but does not outlaw the practice altogether. Many see this as the Bible condoning all forms of slavery. What many people fail to understand is that slavery in Biblical times was very different from the slavery that was practiced in the past few centuries in many parts of the world. The slavery in the Bible was not based exclusively on race. People were not enslaved because of their nationality or the color of their skin. In Bible times, slavery was more of a social status. People sold themselves as slaves when they could not pay their debts or provide for their family. In New Testament times, sometimes doctors, lawyers, and even politicians were slaves of someone else. Some people actually chose to be slaves so as to have all their needs provided for by their master.The slavery of the past few centuries was often based exclusively on skin color. Black people were considered slaves because of their nationality – many slave owners truly believed black people to be “inferior human beings” to white people. The Bible most definitely does condemn race-based slavery. Consider the slavery the Hebrews experienced when they were in Egypt. The Hebrew were slaves, not by choice, but because they were Hebrews (Exodus 13:14). The plagues God poured out on Egypt demonstrate how God feels about racial slavery (Exodus 7-11). So, yes, the Bible does condemn some forms of slavery. At the same time, the Bible does seem to allow for other forms of slavery. The key issue is that the slavery the Bible allowed for in no way resembled the racial slavery that plagued our world in the past few centuries.Another crucial point is that the purpose of the Bible is to point the way to salvation, not to reform society. The Bible often approaches issues from the inside-out. If a person experiences the love, mercy, and grace of God, receiving His salvation – God will reform his soul, changing the way he thinks and acts. A person who has experienced God’s gift of salvation and freedom from the slavery of sin, as God reforms his soul, he will realize that enslaving another human being is wrong. A person who has truly experienced God’s grace will in turn be gracious towards others. That would be the Bible’s prescription for ending slavery.

Recommended Resource: Hard Sayings of the Bible by Kaiser, Davids, & Brauch.

Why Do We Celebrate Jesus Birthday on the 25th?

Speculation as to the time of Jesus’ birth dates back to the 3rd century, when Hyppolytus (ca. 170-236) claimed that Jesus was born on December 25. The earliest mention of some sort of observance on that date is in the Philoclian Calendar, representing Roman practice, of the year 336. Later, John Chrysostom favored the same date of birth. Cyril of Jerusalem (348-386) had access to the original Roman birth census, which also documented that Jesus was born on the 25th of December. The date eventually became the officially recognized date for Christmas in part because it coincided with the pagan festivals celebrating Saturnalia and the winter solstice. The church thereby offered people a Christian alternative to the pagan festivities and eventually reinterpreted many of their symbols and actions in ways acceptable to Christian faith and practice.December 25 has become more and more acceptable as the birth date of Jesus. However, some argue that the birth occurred in some other season, such as in the fall. Followers of this theory claim that the Judean winters were too cold for shepherds to be watching their flocks by night. History proves otherwise, however, and we have evidence that unblemished lambs for the Temple sacrifice were in fact kept in the fields near Bethlehem during the winter months.The truth is, we simply don’t know the exact date of our Savior’s birth. In fact, we don’t even know for sure the year in which He was born. Scholars believe it was somewhere between 6 B.C. and 4 B.C. One thing is clear: if God felt it was important for us to know the exact date of the Savior’s birth, He certainly would have told us in His Word. The Gospel of Luke gives very specific details about the event, even down to what the baby was wearing – “swaddling clothes” - and where he slept – “in a manger” (Luke 2:12). These details are important because they speak of His nature and character, meek and lowly. But the exact date of His birth has no significance whatsoever, which may be why God chose not mention it.The fact is that He was born, that He came into the world to atone for our sins, that He was resurrected to eternal life, and that He’s alive today. This is what we should celebrate, as we are told in the Old Testament in such passages as Zechariah 2:10: "'Shout and be glad, O Daughter of Zion. For I am coming, and I will live among you,' declares the LORD.” Further, the angel that announced the birth to the shepherds brought “good tidings of great joy” (Luke 2:10). Surely here is the cause for celebration every day, not just once a year.

Giving Gifts at Christmas

Many people take the idea of gift giving at Christmas back to the scripture in Matthew 2:10-11 which talks about the Magi (wise men) giving gifts to Jesus at his home: "When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house where the child and his mother, Mary, were, and they fell down before him and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh."The Bible gives a wonderful story about the gift God gave us - Christ - and we can use it as an opportunity to present the gospel and to show love. Giving and receiving gifts can be part of fulfilling what Paul says about giving in 2 Corinthians 8:7-8, "Since you excel in so many ways—you have so much faith, such gifted speakers, such knowledge, such enthusiasm, and such love for us now I want you to excel also in this gracious ministry of giving. I am not saying you must do it, even though the other churches are eager to do it. This is one way to prove your love is real." Paul was talking to the churches who were giving him gifts (financial) so that he could keep on in the ministry. We can apply this same lesson to our own lives by being giving to others, not just at Christmas, but year round!So, can gift giving become the focus of Christmas instead of thanking the Lord for the gift of His Son (John 3:16)? Absolutely! Does giving gifts have to take away from the true meaning of Christmas? No, it does not. If we focus on the wonderful gift of salvation the Lord has given us (Isaiah 9:6), it is a natural expression of that gratefulness for us to give to others. The key is our focus. Is your focus on the gift, or the ultimate gift-giver - our gracious Heavenly Father? "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights..." (James 1:17).Recommended Resource: God's Gift of Christmas by John MacArthur.

What is an advent calendar? How does an advent calendar relate to Christmas?

The word 'Advent' has a Latin origin meaning 'the coming,' or more accurately, 'coming toward.' For Christian believers Christmas is one of the greatest events in the yearly cycle, being the celebration of the greatest gift ever given by God to mankind. That gift was Jesus, the Son of God Himself, born into this world in human form and coming to live among us to show us the true nature of God, experience human joy and sorrow along with us, and finally, going of His own will to die a horrible, agonizing death. In this way the price was paid for all human sin that had cut us off from our Holy God and Heavenly Father, resulting in our complete and total reconciliation with Him.

Centuries ago, the importance of this event caused many Christians to feel that it was inadequate merely to mark off only one day on the yearly calendar for celebrating this incredible gift from God Himself. Believers had (and still do have) such a sense of awe and overwhelming gratitude and wonder at what happened that first Christmas, that they felt the need for a period of preparation immediately beforehand. They could then not only take time themselves to meditate on it, but also teach their children the tremendous significance of Christmas.

At first, the days preceding Christmas were marked off from December 1 with chalk on believers' doors. Then in Germany in the late 19th century the mother of a child named Gerhard Lang made her son an Advent Calendar comprised of 24 tiny sweets stuck onto cardboard. Lang never forgot the excitement he felt when he was given his Advent calendar at the beginning of each December, and how it reminded him every day that the great celebration of the whole year was approaching ever nearer. As an adult he went into partnership with his friend Reichhold and opened a printing office. In 1908, they produced what is thought to be the first-ever printed Advent Calendar with a small colored picture for each day in Advent. Later on, at the beginning of the 20th century, they hit on the idea of making the pictures into little shuttered windows for the children to open day by day, in order to heighten their sense of expectation.

The idea of the Advent Calendar caught on with other printing firms as the demand swiftly increased, and many versions were produced, some of which would have printed on them Bible verses appropriate to the Advent period. By now the Advent Calendar had gained international popularity, and children all over the world were clamoring for them as December approached. Unfortunately, the custom came to an end with the beginning of the First World War when cardboard was rationed and only allowed to be used for strictly necessary purposes. However, in 1946, when rationing began to ease following the end of the Second World War, a printer named Richard Sellmer once again introduced the colorful little Advent Calendar, and again it was an immediate success.

Sadly, with the wane of Christianity in Western nations, the Advent Calendar, although still enormously popular with all children, has lost its true meaning. Many, many children and their parents have no idea of the history of the little calendar or its true purpose, which is to prepare us for the celebration of the advent of the Christ-child. Even if they do know, most would not care. Also, the makers of today's Advent calendars are anxious only to sell their product, and the majority of these neither know nor care about the meaning and purpose of Advent. Their calendars depict Santa Claus and his reindeer, snowmen, holly, mistletoe, and all the secular trappings of Christmas behind the little windows, often along with a piece of chocolate. Fortunately, however, Christian printers are still with us to manufacture Calendars for children from Christian families that unfold the story of the nativity with each window that is opened. We, as Christian Believers, pray that one day the whole world will be aware of the incredible wonder of the true meaning of Advent and Christmas.

Recommended Resource: God's Gift of Christmas by John MacArthur.

Class Notes/Questions - December 9, 2007

Hello!

I trust that all have had a meaningful and restful week. Please pray for those on the prayer list. I know meals and other service is being poured out so I praise the Lord for each of you. Please continue to 'run the race'. This is a body of believers looking to act and movtivated to follow our Lord's 2nd command to 'love our neighbor as ourself'. Be encouraged and pray for God's comfort, guidance, and healing on these issues.

Philemon 8-13 is what we will be reviewing this Sunday. Please take a moment if you haven't already and read the entire book of Philemon. 25 verses shouldn't take too long but we want to be in context when we review this week.

Please read verse 1-7 and reflect on what Paul is discussing. What main points and conclusions would you gather if this was directed at you specifically?

Read vs 8 -

What would be the orders that Paul would give if he was 'being bold'?

Read vs 9 -

What does an appeal on the basis of love change attitudes or what does it make you think of? If your husband/wife, family member, boss, friend, or whomever said 'I could tell you to do this next thing but I appeal to you in love' what would be different or what would change in your mind?

What does it mean to be a 'Prisoner of Christ' as Paul says he is?

Read vs 10 -

Who is Paul appealing to YOU about (pretend you are Philemon)? What happened to Onesimus? What do you think it means to 'became my son while I was in chains'?

Read vs 11 -

When Onesimus was with you (again pretend you are Philemon) why would Paul say he was 'useless'? Why is he now useful to both you and to Paul? What is the change? Is the change internal, external?

Read vs 12 -

What is Paul going to do with Onesimus? How does he see Onesimus compared to himself? What is the relationship between Paul and Onesiumus?

Read vs 13 -

What would Paul have selfishly liked to do? What else stands out in vs 13?

Read vs 8-13 again but this time not so literally. Are there any truths here about what we are slaves to and how useful we are to the cause of Christ? We will discuss that this Sunday in the lesson.

Take care!

Andrew

Philemon Summary

Author: The author of the Book of Philemon was the Apostle Paul (Philemon 1:1).Date of Writing: The Book of Philemon was written in approximately 60 A.D.Purpose of Writing: The letter to Philemon is the shortest of all Paul's writings and deals with the practice of slavery. The letter suggest that Paul was in prison at the time of the writing. Philemon was a slave-owner who also hosted a church in his home. During the time of Paul's ministry in Ephesus, Philemon had likely journeyed to the city, heard Paul's preaching and became a Christian. The slave Onesimus robbed his master, Philemon, and ran away, made his way to Rome and to Paul. Onesimus was still the property of Philemon and Paul wrote to smooth the way for his return to his master. Onesimus had become a Christian and Paul wanted Philemon to accept Onesimus as a brother in Christ and not merely as a slave.Key Verses: Philemon verse 6, "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ."Philemon verse 16, "no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother. He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord."Philemon verse 18, "If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me."Brief Summary: Paul had warned slave-owners that they had a responsibility towards their slaves and showed slaves as responsible moral beings who were to fear God. In Philemon, Paul did not condemn slavery but he presented Onesimus as a Christian brother instead of a slave. When an owner can refer to a slave as a brother, the slave has reached a position in which the legal title of slave is meaningless. The early church did not attack slavery directly but it laid the foundation for a new relationship between owner and slave. Paul attempted to unite both Philemon and Onesimus with Christian love so that emancipation would become necessary. After exposure to the light of the gospel the institution of slavery could only die.Practical Application: Employers, political leaders, corporation executives and parents can follow the spirit of Paul's teaching by treating Christian employees, co-workers and family members as members of Christ's Body. Christians in modern society must not view helpers as stepping stones to help them achieve their ambitions but as Christian brothers and sisters who must receive gracious treatment. In addition, all Christian leaders must recognize that God holds them accountable for the treatment of those who work for them, whether the helpers are Christians or not. They must eventually answer to God for their actions (Colossians 4:1).

Sanctuary Clean Up - Remainder of 2007

Please note the following that are signed up to clean the sanctuary. If you are unable to do this please let me know. Thanks again for your service!

11/25 - Hampleman
12/2 - Flaming
12/9 - Nicholls
12/16 - Smiths
12/23 - Lakins
12/30 - Ridings

Andrew

Class Directory

The class directory is an important item for the class in that we can use the emails and phone numbers to update prayer requests, current issues and occasions (like new babies!), and ensure church or other information gets to you as timely as possible.

The class directory needs updating! Please contact the Hamplemans if you were unable to update in the last couple of classes at church. We want to make sure notes, prayer requests, and other information gets to you.

We won't spam you! :)

Andrew

Class Notes November 25, 2007

Hello! Philemon is not the only person this book is addressed to. We will cover through vs 7 this Sunday including the following:

Who is Paul addressing in vs 1-3? (Who is this TO)

What is Paul thanking this person/group for? What fruits and encouragement does Paul have?

What does Paul do when he thanks God?

Who is it that Paul is thanking and where our actions should stem from in v 1-7? (Who should we thank and our Love stem FROM?)

Andrew

Don't Forget!

Christmas Party is December 15, 2007

This will be held at the Nicholl's house. Additional details forthcoming including an evite.

Andrew

Class Notes November 13, 2007

Hello All!

This week I want to first thank Brian Barber for the summary of Colossians last week. What a great view into the who, what, when, why, and how of this book we have been studying. This week we continue in Paul’s writings with his writing to Philemon. This book, for some reason, is not a frequently studied book. We will be studying Philemon in the ‘normal’ fashion through Thanksgiving and Christmas. As I mentioned the last couple of weeks in class we will be starting an updated version of Experiencing God on January 6, 2008. Here is the rest of the schedule for 2007:

November 18 – Overview of Philemon (Books for Experiencing God will be distributed)
November 25 – Philemon 1-3
December 2 – Philemon 4-7
December 9 – Special Presentation of ‘The Truth Project’ by Kevin Glunt
December 16 – Philemon 8-13
December 23 – Philemon 14-22
December 30 – Philemon 22-25 and a group prayer
January 6, 2008 – Overview of the Experiencing God study and 1st lesson

Ok – so on to Philemon:

Philemon is a letter written by the apostle Paul to a Christian slave owner who lived in the Lycus Valley of Asia Minor. In it the apostle asks that the converted runaway slave, Onesimus, be received back into the household without punishment. We will be studying how the Lord asks each of us to receive others and our love towards them through this beautiful letter.

We will review authorship, Date and Place of origin, occasion and purpose, and an outline of Philemon in class this week.

Read the entire book as a letter once through and discuss with your spouse what you would do or what hear from Paul if you were Philemon. Don’t take significant energy in deciphering. Read it casually as if you received it from your best friend.

Write your answer:


Read Galations 3:28 –

What does it mean to be ‘one in Christ’? Discuss this practically – day to day actions and thoughts – with your spouse


I look forward to this short study. I think you will find that 2 Timothy 3 is correct in the ability for scripture – ALL scripture to show us how our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ can speak to us. The tie to the letter of Philemon and the cross will be come distinct and apparent over the next few weeks.

Andrew

Class Notes for Sunday, October 21, 2007

Hello all! What a great class on Sunday. Take a moment this week to pray specifically for one of your classmates and their praise or prayer request as per the Hampleman’s email. Why not also reach out to them via phone, email, snail mail, or in person to see how that specific issue is?

Duties for believers -

On Sunday we studied Paul’s continued admonishment for us to dedicate all of our actions to the Lord (see vs 23). The paragraph we studied on Sunday consisted of a series of special appeals based on the several relationships in the Christian household. Now Paul returns to counsel that applies to the entire church. Most of what he says relates to the personal devotional life, but the section closes with an appeal for wise behavior toward non-Christians.

Read Colossians Chapter 4

Paul covered the complete and utter sufficiency of Christ and our need to strengthen virtues of our new life in Christ (i.e. indwelling and dependence on the Word, etc). In Chapter 4 he now clearly defines our duties.

Read Colossians 4:2-4

What is the general appeal for here?



“Devote yourselves” (proskartereite) is used 10 times in the new testament in a variety of ways. It is built on the root meaning “to be strong” and always connotes earnest adherence to a person or thing. In this passage it implied persistence and fervor

• Read Acts 1:14, 2:46, and 6:5
• Read Romans 12:12
  

“Being Watchful” (greegorountes; lit., “keeping awake”) suggests constant spiritual alertness.

• Read Matthew 26:41
• Read Mark 14:38
• Read 1 Thess 5:6
• Read 1 Peter 5:8
  

Why does Paul call us to pray?



Read again Colossians 4:3-4

This is Paul’s request for prayer for himself while he was imprisoned in Rome. His concern was that he and his associates might have opportunities for witnessing and that Paul might make clear that great secret of redemption in Christ in a worthy manner. There is no selfish motive behind this prayer’ Paul’s consuming interest was for the advancement of the gospel not his own blessing.

What do you pray for? (answer honestly, no one is grading you…)



Read Colossians 4:5-6

These verses, with their call for discreet behavior in an unbelieving society, my reflect the fact that charges of misconduct on the part of Christians were being circulated. Therefore the Colossian Christians should be all the more cautious, living in so exemplary a way as to give the lie to such slander.

What appeals does Paul make?

In verse 5?



In verse 6?



How do you live and speak? Paul challenges that our living and speaking should be the same and as one.

Read verse 5 aloud

To “be wise in the way you act toward outsiders” is to show practical Christian wisdom in dealing with secular society. Paul’s words imply that believers are to be cautious and tactful so as to avoid needlessly antagonizing or alienating their pagan neighbors. In a positive sense, they also imply that believers should conduct themselves so that the way they live will attract and convict non-Christians and give the pagan community a favorable impression of the gospel.

For more on ‘outsiders Read 1 Cor 5:12-13, 1 Thess 4:12, 1 Tim 3:7

The verb in the statement “make the most of every opportunity” is a market term that meant “to buy out,” “purchase completely” (exagorazomenoi). So Christians, as an expression of practical wisdom, must make the most of every opportunity for witnessing to the faith. Note Matthew 13 and the parable of the pearl.

What holds you back from entirely ‘buying out’ every opportunity with others?



Write out verse 6 below –

Like the Lord and also like James, Paul knew how important the way Christians speak is.

• Read Matthew 12:36
• Read Eph 4:24
• Read Titus 2:8
• Read James 3:1-12
  

Think on these verses and Colossians 4:6 for this Sunday. I will be making this a focus for the class.

Please pray for guidance and wisdom for Vance and I this week as we move towards completing our study of Colossians. We have 2 weeks left after this Sunday.
Warm Regards,

Andy

Sanctuary Clean Up List

Here is the Sanctuary Clean up list -

10/14 - Pinter
10/21 - Loving
10/28 - Wolf
11/4 - Barber
11/11 - Davey
11/18 -
11/25 - Hampleman
12/2 - Flaming
12/9 - Nicholls
12/16 - Smiths
12/23 - Lakins
12/30 - Ridings

I know this is a big help to the church and helps us save money on custodial work. Thanks for your service!

Sunday Treat List

As per the request, here is the treat list per the sign up sheet in class:

10/14 - Loving
10/21 - Pinter
10/28 - Nicholls
11/4 - Flaming
11/11 - Hawkins
11/18 - Barber
11/25 - Hampleman
12/2 - Swifts
12/9 - Kneller
12/16 - Smith
12/23 - Lakins
12/30 - Tuckers

Take Care and thanks to each for taking care of our class in this way...

Next Sunday, October 14

This next Sunday, October 14, we will be starting in Colossians chapter 3 verse 18. Please read ALL the words carefully in the verses and don't skip around. As we begin these verses don't be timid or shy about us asking the obvious questions. God's word is not meant to confuse us. It IS here to ensure we can 'live life more abundantly'. I will publish the remaining notes including questions in the next 2 days. In the meantime, please try and read through Chapter 4 verse 2. These "Rules for Christian Households" should be a great part of our study.

Andrew

Sunday, September 30 - Class Notes

This Sunday, September 30, we will be covering the first 7 verses in Colossians chapter 3. We read these outloud at the end of class last Sunday. Vance will teach this Sunday as our family will be in Tulsa, OK. Please look at these below verses and pray about these as well as review the study guide material for this week.

Colossians 3:1-7 -

Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. for you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is in your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived.

Take Care! Andrew

Submersion Baptism after Sprinkling/Pouring

Question and Answer - The need for submersion baptism for someone who has been previously sprinkled/poured at an earlier date than present.

So let’s define baptism first.

In the easiest that I can make out description “baptism is an outward sign of a inward experience of conversion of and by Jesus Christ.” So, Christ gave you a gift you accepted and now you want to tell others. Submersion baptism is used at our church as it is what was done in the bible. Additionally, it is an illustration of what happens to a believer as they are ‘buried with Christ and raised to walk in newness of life’. There isn’t anything magical about the water or the words used. Remember, this is an outward sign of an inward experience of conversion by and for Jesus Christ. Ok, all that said, you say ‘need’ for submersion baptism. If you are saved you are saved. Jesus calls us to show others in many verses. Some of those deal with baptism – reference x:x and others deal with things like telling others – reference Acts 1:8. What is most important here is if:

1. You understand that you are a sinner and Forgiveness is Available but you can’t get it on your own – it is Impossible for you to get or do something to get on your own.
2. You are ready to Turn from your sin and own way and follow Christ. By accepting His gift (nothing you earned or deserve) you can go to Heaven.
3. If all of these are present I haven’t met someone that doesn’t want to tell others. One way in which we do this is through baptism.
   

Second, let’s define accountability and baptism. What I mean by that is that you can’t be baptized if YOU aren’t the one that decided to get baptized. In our church we call that dedication – someone else is dedicating their time, effort, will, and intention to bringing you closer to the Lord. So my own testimony (or at least part of it) comes in as an example here: I was ‘baptized’ as a baby with sprinkling. Later in life I decided that I believed fully the 3 bullets above. I had decided to follow Jesus (love that song by the way). One follow on action to my OWN DECISION was to follow the bibilical example and get baptized. If you were sprinkled as a baby or very young child and had no decision in this and now have accepted Christ want to get baptized that is great! If you want to rededicate your life to Christ and be baptized that is great! Note that baptism is, again, an outward sign of YOUR decision.

Baptism illustrates a believer’s identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. “Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life” (Romans 6:3-4 NIV). The action of being immersed in the water pictures being buried with Christ. The action of coming out of the water pictures Christ’s resurrection. As a result, baptism by immersion is the only method of baptism which illustrates being buried with Christ, and being raised with Him. Baptism by sprinkling and/or pouring came into practice as a result of the unbiblical practice of infant baptism. Baptism by immersion, while it is the most biblical mode of identifying with Christ, is not (as some believe) a prerequisite for salvation. It is rather an act of obedience to the command to “repent and be baptized” (Acts 2:38). Those who believe in baptismal regeneration fail to understand that it is the “repent” part that is necessary for salvation, not the act by which we declare that repentance to the world.Recommended Resource: Believer's Baptism: Sign of the New Covenant in Christ by Schriener and Wright.

This decision is something that I suggest you pray about and potentially ask one of the pastors about (btw, I am happy to talk to you but they rock!). This is a personal decision but not requisite for your salvation. Don’t forget: It may be a sign to another non-believer that they really haven’t been ‘buried with Christ and raised to walk in newness of life’ or a great encouragement to other believers as they can see you accepting Christ as the Lord of your life! Note that Jesus Himself was baptized!

NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

Did Colosse Turn from the Heretics?

Question and Answer - What do know about the church at Colosse? Did they turn from their heresy? (Not sure what happened in response to his letter.....)

Paul was warning the believers at Colosse about heretical teachers that were around the church body (the believers) there. He was also encouraging them to continue to look to Christ for everything. As the Holy Spirit was prompting Paul to write this letter I can speculate that this also ‘fell into the hands’ of those teachers. The truth of Paul’s writing hopefully brought some to repentance. I see this letter as so specifically talking to us today as well. I say this because I think your question extends specifically to us as believers today. Did we turn from our heresy? Do we turn away from heretical teachers and teaching? Do we judge others based on say what day they worship on? I am also not sure what happened in response to his letter so I don’t have a definitive answer for you. “The theme of Colossians is the complete adequacy of Christ as contrasted with the emptiness of mere human philosophy” – NIV study bible pg 1852 – so there is no answer full but speculation.

NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

Communion Frequency

Question and Answer - If fellowship is important why not have communion every week? - this was how I was raised.

Thanks for this question. There is quite a bit packed into this question! Before I just dive in let’s touch on the 4 points of your question.

1) Fellowship – I am assuming you mean fellowship with Christ? Or do you mean fellowship with other believers?;
2) Communion – I am assuming you mean the act of communion where we remember Christ’s last supper and come into fellowship with that through a ceremony;
3) Timing – I see you mean every week – I am assuming you mean at Sunday Morning worship;
4) How you were raised – This is comfortable or meaningful to you based on tradition which is cool.

Let’s put some of these 4 together in questions I need to have answered before I am sure I am answering what you are asking:

It is very important to have fellowship with Christ. We do this through a number of ways including bible study time (alone and corporately), driving down the street, prayer, corporate worship, Sunday school fellowship time, time with friends, music, etc. What I understanding you are drawing together is the tie to communion and the frequency of this form as a corporate ordinance for our church. I would ask to go on even further and ask about why we don’t do it every time we meet together as believers? I am right with you on observing this extremely meaningful time of fellowship with Christ. That said, how often is too often and how often is not often enough? Would too often be every day? Would too few be every 2 years? I guess what I am saying is that certainly we can’t go too long nor is trying to do this every meal (which remember we are breaking bread and drinking together) in a ceremonial way corporately meaningful.

The Bible nowhere instructs us how often we should take communion. 1 Corinthians 11:24-26 records the following instructions for communion: “…the Lord Jesus in the night in which he was betrayed took bread; And giving thanks, He broke it and said, ‘Take, eat; this is My body, which is broken for you; this do in remembrance of Me.’ In the same way He took the cup also, after supping, saying, ‘This cup is the New Covenant in My blood; as often as you drink it, do this in remembrance of Me.’ For ‘as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you show’ the Lord's death until He shall come.” This passage gives all the instructions we need to perform the rite of communion and to understand the significance of what we are doing. The bread which He broke in half represents His body which was broken on the cross for us. The cup represents the blood He shed on our behalf, sealing a covenant between Him and us. Each time we perform the communion ritual, we are not only remembering what He did for us, but we are “showing” it as well to all who watch and all who participate. This is a beautiful and graphic picture of what happened at the cross, what it means, and how it impacts our lives as believers. It would seem, then, that since we take the Lord’s Supper to remember Christ’s death and shed blood, we should take it fairly often. Some churches have a monthly Lord’s Supper service, others do it bi-monthly, others weekly. Since the Bible does not give us specific instruction as to frequency, there is some latitude in how often a church should observe the Lord’s Supper. It should be often enough to renew focus on Christ, without being so often that it become routine. In any case, it’s not the frequency that matters, but the heart attitude of those who participate. We should partake with reverence, love, and a deep sense of gratitude for the Lord Jesus, who was willing to die on the cross to take upon Himself our sins.Recommended Resource: The Lord's Supper is a Celebration of Grace by Gordon Keddie.

Converse to your question I don’t fully see the tie that the church is seeing fellowship as less important if we don’t do communion every week at Sunday morning service. (BTW – I grew up this way too… )

NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

OT Laws Changed by Christ?

Question and Answer - Why did we have laws in the OT to be changed in the NT w/Christ?

Short Answer: The laws in the OT are not ‘gone’ or ‘changed’ but ‘fulfilled’ by Christ.

In Matthew’s record of what is commonly called, “The Sermon on the Mount,” these words of Jesus are recorded: "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished" (Matthew 5:17-18).It is frequently argued that if Jesus did not “abolish” the law, then it must still be binding. Accordingly, such components as the “Sabbath day” requirement must be operative still, along with perhaps numerous other elements of the Mosaic Law. This assumption is grounded upon a misunderstanding of the words and intent of this passage. Christ did not here suggest that the binding nature of the law of Moses would remain forever in effect. Such a view would contradict everything we learn from the balance of the New Testament record (Romans 10:4; Galatians 3:23-25; Ephesians 2:15). Consider the following points.Of special significance in this study is the word rendered “abolish.” It translates the Greek term “kataluo,” literally meaning to “loose down.” The word is found seventeen times in the New Testament. It is used, for example, of the destruction of the Jewish temple by the Romans (Matthew 26:61; 27:40; Acts 6:14), and of the dissolving of the human body at death (2 Corinthians 5:1). The term can carry the extended meaning of “to overthrow,” i.e., to “render vain, deprive of success.” In classical Greek, it was used in connection with institutions, laws, etc., to convey the idea of “to invalidate.”It is especially important to note how the word is used in Matthew 5:17. In this context, “abolish” is set in opposition to “fulfill.” Christ came “...not to abolish, but to fulfill.” The meaning is this. Jesus did not come to this earth for the purpose of acting as an opponent of the law. His goal was not to prevent its fulfillment. Rather, he revered it, loved it, obeyed it, and brought it to fruition. He fulfilled the law’s prophetic utterances regarding himself (Luke 24:44). Christ fulfilled the demands of the Mosaic law, which called for perfect obedience, or else imposed a “curse” (see Galatians 3:10,13). In this sense, the law’s divine design will ever have an abiding effect. It will always accomplish the purpose for which it was given.If, however, the law of Moses bears the same relationship to men today, in terms of its binding status, as it did before Christ came, then it was not fulfilled, and Jesus failed at what he came “to do.” On the other hand, if the Lord did accomplish what he came to accomplish, then the law was fulfilled, and it is not a binding legal institution today. Further, if the law of Moses was not fulfilled by Christ, and thus remains as a binding legal system for today, then it is not just partially binding. Rather, it is totally compelling system. Jesus plainly said that not one “jot or tittle” (representative of the smallest markings of the Hebrew script) would pass away until all was fulfilled. Consequently, nothing of the law was to fail until it had completely accomplished its purpose. Jesus fulfilled the law. Jesus fulfilled all of the law. We cannot say that Jesus fulfilled the sacrificial system, but did not fulfill the other aspects of the law. Jesus either fulfilled all of the law, or none of it. What Jesus' death means for the sacrificial system, it also means for the other aspects of the law.

NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

How do we unify all the Christian Faiths?

Question and Answer - How do we unify all the Christian faiths/denominations?

The first part of this is why they are separate at all. What is it that drove the denominations to split apart? Certainly there have been historic moments that the churches and denominations can look back including where the orthodox and catholic church split, the reformation, finding cool tablets, etc. But what is that drove these? I see only 2 things that DROVE these (some scholar with have much more but these are it from my vantage point):

A) Human need for control
B) Seeking to put God first above all else

I can go into more on these if you would like.

The second part of this is how do we unify (more specific to answer your question) all of these. I, frankly, see no way to do this. There are 3 main reasons of which I will go into more detail on the 3rd:

1) Human tradition and ‘club’ created and associated with each denomination and faith is so strong – people relate to their family and others through the common history and paradigm created by ‘growing up’ and knowing this tradition – or - comfort
2) Specific doctrine
3) We may be looking to unify something that is outside what Christ asked from us.

A little more on #3 – The bible delineates the followers of Christ as ‘the body’. There is not a name (even Christian) put on these believers at that time. I would suggest that Christ showed us an example that He continued in His Word around personal and specific love of God and through that, love of others. The call, from what I read, is to search for truth through the scripture, prayer, and fellowship both personally and corporately. If the group you are around (call it a church or not) is after these things and not off on tangents that don’t rely soley on the scripture then my question is what is the difference between that and anything else out there.
What I hear inside this question is the concern that we want to bring everyone into heaven or, at least, that we care about everyone. That IS certainly something Christ wants us to care about. I would ask though, is this (unifying all the Christian faiths/denominations) something that will help lead these people to Christ? I would ask rather what can be done for each individual as we saw the example of Christ reaching out to individuals. Our love for those in need specifically is a call from Christ. Finally, I would like to say that I truly believe that the body of Christ IS unified. This may sound strange but if you think about an example it may be helpful. When I was returning from my first trip to Romania the last flight I was on I was worn out. I sat next to a very tall man who identified himself as a kernel in the Army. As we talked a bit more he told me he is a follower of Jesus Christ. We talked the entire flight about how he was saved, what was going on in our families, and what we could pray for each other about. We still email each other occasionally. You know, I don’t know what church he goes to. He is a believer. We are unified THROUGH CHRIST.

One example of people attempting to bring together all faiths is the Unity School of Christianity right here Kansas City. Here is some information:

• The Unity School of Christianity is considered a classic pantheistic New Age cult. It was founded in 1889 by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, and incorporated as a church in Kansas City in 1903. There are approximately 110,000 members, with over 300 Unity churches. It is one of the largest metaphysical groups in the United States, and has a huge mail-order base (its magazine Daily Word has millions of readers).The Unity School of Christianity got its start through an illness. Myrtle had developed tuberculosis and was searching for anything that would heal her. After attending a lecture by Dr. Eugene Weeks, a disciple of Quimby's New Thought teachings, she learned about metaphysical healing. Two years after this lecture, and after much research and personal application of metaphysics, she claims she was healed. Her husband, while skeptical at first, began to study metaphysics also, as well as other religions and philosophies. What emerged was the Unity School of Christianity, named so after Charles heard a voice say to him, "unity." This name fit well, as the Fillmores' religious philosophy was a mix of New Thought, Christian Science, Divine Science, Hinduism, Theosophy, Rosicrucianism, Spiritualism, and others. As quoted by Charles, they "borrowed the best from all religions." Excited by Myrtle's healing and by the knowledge they had recently acquired, they began holding meetings to teach others their new theology.The Unity School of Christianity claims that through adhering to its teachings people can be happier, healthier, and achieve their divine potential. Six of its main teachings are: 1) All sacred writings of all religions contain spiritual insights, and should be interpreted metaphysically, though spiritual insight can be gained without consulting holy books; 2) God is an impersonal principle, and is found in all things, animate and inanimate, and all things are in God; 3) Jesus was just a man who obtained divine consciousness, and became the voice of God to humanity; 4) Because the divine nature is found in all things, man is also divine; 5) Salvation comes through obtaining perfect union between one's mind and the divine mind, by obtaining divine consciousness--there is not sin to deal with; and 6) Reincarnation annuls the dissolution of spirit, soul and body caused by death.Obviously, the Unity School of Christianity has nothing whatsoever to do with biblical Christian teaching. The Bible refutes each and every point of Unity theology: 1) The Bible alone is the Word of God, given to mankind so that we might each come to know Jesus Christ in a personal, saving way (John 17:17; Psalm 119:89, 140; 2 Timothy 3:16-17); 2) God is an extremely personal God Who created all things, and while omni-present, He exists apart from His creation (Psalm 139:7-12; John 1:1-5; 14:6; Ephesians 2:4-5; Hebrews 1:3); 3) Jesus is the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity, God manifested in human form, being fully divine while fully human (John 1:1, 14; 5:18; Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:6-7; Colossians 1:15-18); 4) Mankind is not divine, but fallen, and is in need of salvation due to his sin nature (Isaiah 64:6; Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:23; 1 Corinthians 3:3; 1 John 3:4); 5) Salvation comes through faith in Christ alone (Isaiah 7:14; Luke 2:11; John 3:16; 1 John 2:2); and 6) Because of sin, mankind experiences physical death only once (Hebrews 9:27).

Again, not US that can bring the body together but Christ. Are we after Christ above all or after human constructions and regulations that appear to be wisdom - Col 2:23?

NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

Judging Others - 2 Parts

Question and answer - A) Is it not okay to judge others when that judgement is based on biblical truth. And B) Judgement - people (especially non-believer) take this verse out of context. Sin is still sin and they should not be tolerated because we 'should not judge'. Would like to discuss this further.

These 2 questions deserve much more than blog attention but I will attempt here and maybe we can discuss a bit in class as well!
Short answer: Is your intention to bring someone closer to Christ or to point them out and….?
It seems that whenever one person confronts another person over an issue, the statement "Do not judge!" comes up. Christians are often accused of "judging" in contradiction to what the Bible says whenever they speak out against a sinful activity. However, that is not the meaning of the Scripture verses which state, "Do not judge." When Jesus told us not to judge (Matthew 7:1), He was telling us not to judge hypocritically. Matthew 7:2-5 declares, "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, Let me take the speck out of your eye when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye."In Matthew 7:2-5, Jesus warns against judging someone else for their sin when you yourself are sinning even worse. That is the kind of judging Jesus commanded us not to do. If a believer sees another believer sinning, it is their Christian duty to lovingly and respectfully confront the person with their sin (Matthew 18:15-17). This is not judging, but rather pointing out the truth in hope of bringing repentance in the other person (James 5:20). We are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). We are to proclaim what God's Word says about sin. 2 Timothy 4:2 instructs us, "Preach the Word ; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage — with great patience and careful instruction." We are to "judge" sin, but always with the goal of presenting the solution for sin and its consequences - the Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:6).Recommended Resource: Hard Sayings of the Bible by Kaiser, Davids, & Brauch.
If we TRULY believe “For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and FOR Him. He is before all things, and in Him ALL things hold together” – Col 1:16-17 – then we have no reason to fear that all by ourselves we must correct the path of man corporately or personally one by one. That does not mean we are not to discern (see above question and answer on ‘ok to judge on biblical truth) and admonish as per the above. It means that our intention is not about tolerating but to deliver the message that Christ is the answer – not our argument that whatever sin it is is wrong. We should hate sin! But we shouldn’t hate the sinner. It is important not to see ourselves as a judge on sin. The “smallest” to the “largest” sin is still sin to a Holy God. We, therefore, cannot claim to be a righteous judge. Great question and I believe I understood the intent as noble and seeking the Lord so please bear with me as I try to write out something that would be a great conversation. I look forward to more on this thread.


NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

Seeing Fruit vs. Judgement

Question and Answer - Where is the line drawn between seeing fruit or lack of versus judgement?

The question I see implied in this one is how do you see fruit or lack of? It is contagious to see a new Christian who is filled with the awe and wonder of the gospel and Jesus. Additionally, it is uplifting to see those who have walked with the Lord for decades that still reach out and truly seek to follow Jesus, as an example, by talking to others about their faith and the Lord. So implicit in this is whether the ‘seeing’ is comparing this person to others in that fruit or lack of or really, sincerely, being after pointing them to Christ. Certainly those that are seeking to follow God show fruit. Reference James 2:17. That said, this fruit doesn’t come from us. We can only tell others of the ground in which we are planted – see Colossians 2:6-7 – and rooted. What my question would be is what is the intention here? Do you want to show someone the error of their ways? Or are you attempting to call out for your own self?


NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

Keepign from False Humility / Humbleness

Question and Answer - How can I keep from becoming falsely humble/humility?

What a question! To use all of your strength, mind, body, spirit and everything in loving Him will keep you from this as much as is possible as a human – note Mark 12:30. In this, I would advise an accountability partner or partners and even mentors as Timothy had Paul. A final note is that to hold on to Christ and follow Him includes a relationship that needs to be ongoing through daily prayer, bible study, and fellowship.

NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

Heretical Add ons in Colosse

Question and Answer - How did the extra rules get added?

The context of this question, I believe, is around our study in Colossians where the believers were being asked to observe or being judged if they did or didn’t observe certain holidays, celebrations, or other ‘rules’. In this the short answer is that they weren’t added. Most of the observances (except the pagan ones) were part of Old Testament tradition. Paul pointed distinctly that all of these were a “shadow of things to come” so that no one would mistake observing these as part of salvation nor that their eyes are taken off of Jesus. One example I would give would be of someone that had a medical condition and couldn’t go to church on the Sabbath. They were being judged and less religious or pious than someone else. The pagan celebrations are no different than ones we see today. If someone judges you for not observing time off or a holiday or whatever the question is how and who are they to judge? Are you seeking God at all times? Paul and others in the new testament surely show us that Jesus is a superset of the ‘shadow’ that was. Remember in our lesson that Paul says “These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ” Col 2:17. Note that they ‘WERE’ to come meaning that it HAS COME – this HAS come is Christ which we should look to for everything. My final comment on this… Read then Col 2:22. Note that ‘based on human commands and teachings’ will go away. So what commands and teachings are we to follow? We are to follow teaching and commands of who? Jesus of course. How do we know and follow these rather than human commands? The bible is the start and foundation. Holy Spirit and Prayer next. THEN fellowship.


NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

Sunday vs. Saturday Worship/Meeting

Question and Answer - Why do we meet on sundays instead of saturdays?

It is often claimed that "God instituted the Sabbath in Eden" because of the connection between the Sabbath and creation in Exodus 20:11. Although God's rest on the seventh day (Genesis 2:3) did foreshadow a future Sabbath law, there is no biblical record of the Sabbath before the children of Israel left the land of Egypt. Nowhere in Scripture is there any hint that Sabbath-keeping was practiced from Adam to Moses. The Word of God makes it quite clear that Sabbath observance was a special sign between God and Israel: "And Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain, saying, "Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel: 'You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself. Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine'" (Exodus 19:3–5).“Therefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations as a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed” (Exodus 31:16–17).In Deuteronomy 5, Moses restates the ten commandments to the next generation of Israelites. Here, after commanding Sabbath observance in verses 12–14, Moses gives the reason the Sabbath was given to the nation Israel: "And remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there by a mighty hand and by an outstretched arm; therefore the Lord your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath day" (Deuteronomy 5:15).Notice the word therefore. God's intent for giving the Sabbath to Israel was not that they would remember creation, but that they would remember their Egyptian slavery and the Lord's deliverance. Note the requirements for Sabbath-keeping: A person placed under that Sabbath law could not leave his home on the Sabbath (Exodus 16:29), he could not build a fire (Exodus 35:3), and he could not cause anyone else to work (Deuteronomy 5:14). A person breaking the Sabbath law was to be put to death (Exodus 31:15; Numbers 15:32–35).An examination of New Testament passages shows us four important points: 1) Whenever Christ appears in His resurrected form and the day is mentioned, it is always the first day of the week (Matthew 28:1, 9, 10; Mark 16:9; Luke 24:1, 13, 15; John 20:19, 26). 2) The only time the Sabbath is mentioned from Acts through Revelation it is for evangelistic purposes to the Jews and the setting is usually in a synagogue (Acts chapters 13–18). Paul wrote, "to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews" (1 Corinthians 9:20). Paul did not go to the synagogue to fellowship with and edify the saints, but to convict and save the lost. 3) Once Paul states "from now on I will go to the Gentiles" (Acts 18:6), the Sabbath is never again mentioned. And 4) instead of suggesting adherence to the Sabbath day, the remainder of the New Testament implies the opposite (including the one exception to point 3 above, found in Colossians 2:16).Looking more closely at point 4 above will reveal that there is no obligation for the New Testament believer to keep the Sabbath, and will also show that the idea of a Sunday "Christian Sabbath" is also unscriptural. As discussed above, there is one time the Sabbath is mentioned after Paul began to focus on the Gentiles, "So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or Sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ" (Colossians 2:16–17). The Jewish Sabbath was abolished at the cross where Christ "wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us" (Colossians 2:14).This idea is repeated more than once in the New Testament: "One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it" (Romans 14:5–6a). "But now after you have known God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you turn again to the weak and beggarly elements, to which you desire again to be in bondage? You observe days and months and seasons and years" (Galatians 4:9–10).But some claim that a mandate by Constantine in A.D. 321 "changed" the Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday. On what day did the early church meet for worship? Scripture never mentions any Sabbath (Saturday) gatherings by believers for fellowship or worship. However, there are clear passages that mention the first day of the week. For instance, Acts 20:7 states that "on the first day of the week the disciples came together to break bread." In 1 Corinthians 16:2 Paul urges the Corinthian believers "on the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper." Since Paul designates this offering as "service" in 2 Corinthians 9:12, this collection must have been linked with the Sunday worship service of the Christian assembly. Historically Sunday, not Saturday, was the normal meeting day for Christians in the church, and its practice dates back to the first century.The Sabbath was given to Israel, not the church. The Sabbath is still Saturday, not Sunday, and has never been changed. But the Sabbath is part of the Old Testament Law, and Christians are free from the bondage of the Law (Galatians 4:1-26; Romans 6:14). Sabbath keeping is not required of the Christian—be it Saturday or Sunday. The first day of the week, Sunday, the Lord's Day (Revelation 1:10) celebrates the New Creation, with Christ as our resurrected Head. We are not obligated to follow the Mosaic Sabbath—resting, but are now free to follow the risen Christ—serving. The Apostle Paul said that each individual Christian should decide whether to observe a Sabbath rest, “One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind” (Romans 14:5). We are to worship God every day, not just on Saturday or Sunday.

NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

Intentions and Gambling

Question and Answer - If my intention is not wrong, can I gamble with money if I tithe? No drinking with it. Not using a lot of money.

The Bible does not specifically condemn gambling, betting, or the lottery. The Bible does warn us, however, to stay away from the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10; Hebrews 13:5). Scripture also encourages us to stay away from attempts to "get rich quick" (Proverbs 13:11; 23:5; Ecclesiastes 5:10). Gambling most definitely is focused on the love of money and undeniably tempts people with the promise of quick and easy riches.What’s wrong with gambling? Gambling is a difficult issue because if it is done in moderation and only on occasion, it is a waste of money, but it is not necessarily "evil." People waste money on all sorts of activities. Gambling is no more or less of a waste of money than seeing a movie (in many cases), eating an unnecessarily expensive meal, or purchasing a worthless item. At the same time, the fact that money is wasted on other things does not justify gambling. Money should not be wasted. Excess money should be saved for future needs or given to the Lord's work - not gambled away.Gambling in the Bible: While the Bible does not explicitly mention gambling, it does mention games of "luck" or "chance." As an example, casting lots is used in Leviticus to choose between the sacrificial goat and the scapegoat. Joshua cast lots to determine the allotment of land to the various tribes. Nehemiah cast lots to determine who would live inside the walls of Jerusalem and who wouldn’t. The apostles cast lots to determine the replacement for Judas. Proverbs 16:33 says, “The lot is cast in the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.” Nowhere in the Bible is gambling or "chance" used for entertainment or presented as an acceptable practice for followers of God.Casinos and lotteries: Casinos use all sorts of marketing schemes to entice gamblers to risk as much money as possible. They often offer inexpensive or even free alcohol, which encourages drunkenness, and thereby a decreased ability to make wise decisions. Everything in a casino is perfectly rigged for taking money in large sums and giving nothing in return, except for fleeting and empty pleasures. Lotteries attempt to portray themselves as a way to fund education and/or social programs. However, studies show that lottery participants are usually those who can least afford to be spending money on lottery tickets. The allure of "getting rich quick" is too great a temptation to resist for those who are desperate. The chances of winning are infinitesimal, which results in many peoples’ lives being ruined.Why lottery proceeds do not please God: Many people claim to be playing the lottery or gambling so that they can give the money to the church, or to some other good cause. While this may be a good motive, reality is that few use gambling winnings for godly purposes. Studies show that the vast majority of lottery winners are in an even worse financial situation a few years after winning a jackpot than they were before. Few, if any, truly give the money to a good cause. Further, God does not need our money to fund His mission in the world. Proverbs 13:11 says, “Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow.” God is sovereign and will provide for the needs of the church through honest means. Would God be honored by receiving donated drug money, or money stolen in a bank robbery? Neither does God need or want money that was "stolen" from the poor by the temptation for riches.1 Timothy 6:10 tells us, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs." Hebrews 13:5 declares, "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Matthew 6:24 proclaims, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money."

The tithe and the gambling don’t go together. What I mean by this is that there is no ‘works’ you can do that make something right in the sight of God. So, the short answer to this is it really doesn’t matter about the drinking or how much money, you are right on the part that this is about intent or motive (which everything is). The need to examine your heart is the most necessary item here. Beyond that we must also include that factor that we live on the planet with other people. If you have fully studied scripture, prayed, and talked to a trusted Christian (or, even better, more than one) and all of those agree don’t forget that others see how you act and what you do as well. Lastly, please note that when you say ‘not using a lot of money’ what is the definition around ‘a lot’. What I mean by that is that it is relative. $5 in New York won’t get you a happy meal but in other parts of the world this would be ‘a lot’. The question I would ask is how much is it where it matters to the Lord? Even more to the point, if you are having fun with the guys playing a game of X (poker, canasta, pictionary) at your house what is the difference in winning if you use peanuts vs dollars?

There is book by Pastor Tony Evans on this as well – called – weirdly enough – “Gambling and the Lottery”.

NOTE: I am not a bible scholar nor do I understand all of the context around each item so I am going with what I know and can discern from what is written. Please comment on the item and, if I miss the real point please let me know. I have written the questions down exactly as they were written on the paper with no structure or wording changes. As promised, I will also work diligently with those that know the bible better than I to answer some of these questions. I expect that some of these questions and answers may be controversial. I am attempting only to impart truth and point to it. Please be patient with me and the answers. If I have said something that offends you or is inaccurate respond please. I will consult with a pastor and get back to you. Thanks to all for sharing!

Hello!

Hello everyone! I am really excited to start using this medium as a way to communicate in this way that is both easy to access and interactive. I will begin posting class notes the week of September 24, 2007.