Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• When the basic concepts of something are
discussed, those are called the “ABC’s”
• One must learn “A…B…C…” in school before
he can read, write, or spell proficiently
• Every profession has certain “basics” that
must be mastered before more advanced
concepts, techniques are taken on
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• Even the religion of Christ has such basics
• The consequences of failing to grasp these
basics are greater than in any secular pursuit
• A failure to master “Biblical ABC’s” can result
in souls being lost for all eternity
• A review of Heb 5:11 – 6:3 illustrates this truth
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• Many important truths need to be taught re:
Jesus Christ e.g. His priesthood 5:1-10
• A thought previously introduced 2:17 4:14-15
• Also an ancient prophecy cp. Psa 110:4
• Successfully establishing this would convince
the Hebrew Christians to not return to the Law
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• The priesthood of Christ was “after the order”
of Melchizedek 5:10
• Therefore, a proper understanding of this O.T.
character would be necessary cp. Gen 14
• Concerning Melchizedek the Hebrews writer
“had much to say…” 5:11a
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• Regrettably, the author had to pause in this
important discussion
• Not because the subject was too difficult to grasp
• The problem was the readers themselves…they
were not ready to receive (understand) 5:11b
• “Dull of hearing” = spiritual laziness cp. 6:12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• This problem was something they had brought
upon themselves…they had “become” dull
• They had stopped listening, stopped growing
cp. 2 Pet 3:18
• Their failure to want to learn was the reason they
could not comprehend what needed to be taught
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• What made this so disappointing is the author
was dealing with people who shouldn’t even
have been in such a dilemma 5:12a
• He was not writing to “new converts”
• Enough time had elapsed that these readers
should have been “teachers” mature enough
to understand
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• Instead of being able to teach others, they
themselves still needed to be taught 5:12b
• And not just be taught, but be taught “…the
elementary (first) principles of the oracles of
God” 5:12c
• The “spiritual ABC’s”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• There is nothing wrong with being a “babe in
Christ” if that is where one should be
• Babes should “be on the bottle” cp. 1 Pet 2:1-3
• However, that was not the “category” the
readers of the Hebrews epistle were to be in
• Sadly, it may even describe some of us
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• They were still “spiritual babies” because they
were “not accustomed to (were unskilled in)
the word of righteousness” 5:13
• Maturity in the word of God = a “skill” 2 Tim 2:15
• This “skill” is only honed by “reason of use” of a
disciple’s senses to discern good and evil 5:14
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• Their failure in possessing this “skill” is why
they could not eat the “strong meat” and had
to settle with only milk 5:12c
• Spiritual maturity does not occur just because
we’ve been a disciple for a long time, or because
we come from generations of Christians
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• Maturity in Christ (the ability to eat the “strong
meat”) will only be accomplished by “reason
of use” of a disciple’s senses in discerning
good from evil cp. 1 Thess 5:21-22
Rom 12:1-2 1 Pet 2:11 4:1-4
• Thus, we see the solution to laziness is effort
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• An Exposition Of Heb 5:11 – 6:3
• Elementary teaching (the ABC’s) must
eventually be left behind…at some point, we
must be able to “…press on to maturity” 6:1
• Disciples can grow from childhood to adulthood
because of God’s provisions cp. Eph 4:11-15
• God desires, “permits” such growth 6:2-3
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• All hope is not lost, though…the author still
had hopes for his readers cp. 6:9
• “Better things can still exist” for us, too
• There is still time to make correction if we are
guilty of having “dull hearing” or being
“spiritually sluggish”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• Studying “Biblical ABC’s” will help us
become better acquainted with important
bedrock truths necessary to understand
• We will be better able to “rightly divide (handle
accurately) the word of truth cp. 2 Tim 2:15
• Yes, some truths are “hard to understand”…
but not impossible cp. 2 Pet 3:16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction
• Whether these “ABC’s” come to us easy or
with a struggle, it is important to grasp
them so that we “…grow up in all things
unto Him who is the Head…” Eph 4:15
• Even if we already know them, review is
still good cp. 2 Pet 1:10-15 3:1-2
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction: Review Points
• The readers of the Hebrews epistle “ought”
to have been teachers 5:12
• This signified an obligation
• Teaching the gospel is an obligation upon
all disciples cp. Acts 8:4 11:19-26
2 Tim 2:2 Titus 2:4
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
General Introduction: Review Points
• Eventually, the “elementary principles”
(spiritual ABC’s) must be left behind as the
disciple presses on toward maturity
• May our studies help us graduate off the
bottle and into a diet of strong meat…the
“skill of a mature follower of Jesus Christ”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• A topic that is discussed much…maybe
misunderstood even more
• By “the religious (denominational) world”
• Even by N.T. disciples of Christ
• The Scripture teaches in clear terms what
is involved in being truly converted
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• Understanding the basic concept…
• The root word for “conversion” literally means
“to turn around; turn one’s self about”
[Thayer]
• Biblical examples of this literal definition:
Mk 5:30 Mt 5:39 7:6
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• Understanding the basic concept…
• Re: conversion to Jesus Christ, it means
“to turn the heart or mind; to change one’s
course of conduct”
• Biblical examples of this more figurative
definition: Acts 7:39 15:3 3:19 11:21
1 Thess 1:6-9 Jas 5:19-20
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• Changed conduct or behavior (conversion)
comes from a changed heart Mk 7:14-23
• Actions always follow inward decisions
• The heart is the determining factor v. 19
• One who has a “turned heart” (been converted)
will exhibit proper conduct & choices
• In how he chooses to worship, serve God
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• Changed conduct or behavior (conversion)
comes from a changed heart Mk 7:14-23
• Actions always follow inward decisions
• The heart is the determining factor v. 19
• One who has a “turned heart” (been converted)
will exhibit proper conduct & choices
• In how he chooses to live morally, socially, etc.
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• The necessity of conversion is evident
• Jesus said we will not enter heaven unless we
are “converted” and become like a little child
Mt 18:3
• James wrote one must be “turned” (converted)
in order to be saved from death and have his
sins covered Jas 5:19-20
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• The necessity of conversion is evident
• Sin makes conversion necessary Rom 3:23
• The Scripture also teaches us how God feels
about sin and why He wants us to be “turned”
• God “hates” sinful characteristics Prov 6:16-19
• These attributes are an “abomination” (disgusting)
• God “hates” putting away (divorce) Mal 2:16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• The necessity of conversion is evident
• The Scripture also teaches us how God feels
about sin and why He wants us to be “turned”
• God is entirely holy, wants us to be 1 Pet 1:16
• God is the very essence of light 1 Jn 1:5
• “Holy, holy, holy” is ascribed to God Rev 4:8
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• The necessity of conversion is evident
• The Scripture also teaches us how God feels
about sin and why He wants us to be “turned”
• God is entirely unique…there is no other being like
Him cp. Isa 46:8-10
• The only barriers that separate us from God, and
that will prevent Him from saving us are our own
impenitent sins Isa 59:1-2
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• The necessity of conversion is evident
• Therefore, is there any wonder why God calls
on us to be “converted” or “turned?”
• Man will not be able to live any way he chooses
and then expect to enter heaven cp. Gal 6:7-8
• Such would be “mocking” (to turn the nose up at)
God we only deceive ourselves if this is what
we think
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• How God feels towards sinners…those who
need to be “converted”
• God has never at any time been under any
obligation to save a sinner cp. Gen 6-9
• He would be well within His Divine right to just
“wipe us out” cp. Ex 32:7-10
• Instead, He chooses to be compassionate
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• How God feels towards sinners…those who
need to be “converted”
• His word uses descriptive phrases that reveal
His heart toward sinners…those who need to
be “converted” Ex. Eph 1-2
Eph 2:4 MERCY LOVE
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• How God feels towards sinners…those who
need to be “converted”
• His word uses descriptive phrases that reveal
His heart toward sinners…those who need to
be “converted” Ex. Eph 1-2
Eph 2:7 GRACE KINDNESS
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• How God feels towards sinners…those who
need to be “converted”
• His word uses descriptive phrases that reveal
His heart toward sinners…those who need to
be “converted” Ex. Eph 1-2
Eph 1:7 REDEMPTION FORGIVENESS
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• Some Closing Thoughts…
• Conversion is something for everyone to think
about…both believers & unbelievers
• Unbelievers should be taught they need to
“turn to the Lord” Acts 11:21 1 Thess 1:9
• They are “dead in sin” and “without hope in
the world” Eph 2:1-3, 12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• Some Closing Thoughts…
• Believers need to remember their past sinful
condition Eph 2:12
• Their challenge will be not to return to the
former way of life from which they “turned”
• They need to live as a “transformed” person
Rom 12:2
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
The Believer’s Transformation Rom 12:2
• “Transformed” = origin of “metamorphosis”
• Illustrates what we can become despite being
guilty of sin in the past
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
The Believer’s Transformation Rom 12:2
• Instead of “getting even” with someone like he
used to do, now he refrains from personal
vengeance, and he even prays for those who
wrong him Mt 5:43-48 Rom 12:17-21
• Instead of worshiping at the “church of his
choice,” he makes sure his religious service &
worship meet with Divine approval Mt 7:21-23
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 2 Genuine Conversion
• Some Closing Thoughts…
• A truly “converted” person realizes he has
spent enough of his life in sinful ways God
does not approve 1 Pet 4:2-3
• He understands he must live as a “changed”
or “turned” or “converted” person
Col 2:20 – 3:17
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Easy observation to make…there is an
absence of “religious unity”
• Many churches teach opposing doctrines
• “Searchers for truth” are frustrated, hindered
• The only solution is to be what God wants
• Only then can unity & fellowship occur
cp. 1 Jn 1:1-3
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Recognizing a failed approach…
• Some saints want to convert family, friends
• These “converts-to-be” are involved in human
denominations
• Therefore, some conclude we must learn all
about these man-made religions so that we can
teach our loved ones out of all that error
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• The right approach…
• Yes, we need to convert lost souls Mt 28:18
• Instead of taking the time to study religious
error, wouldn’t it be a better use of time to
study truth
• Once one knows truth, he can spot error…he’ll
be able to teach those caught up in error
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• The Lord’s church exists in the midst of
much religious error
• The situation in the 1st century when Jesus
founded His church
• Still the situation today 2,000+ years later
• All these man-made churches hinder true unity
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• The church of Christ
• Founder: Jesus Christ Mt 16:18
• When: A.D. 30 in Jerusalem (Pentecost)
• Followers: named “Christians” Acts 11:26
• “To give a command or admonition; to teach from
heaven; to be divinely commanded; to receive a
name; be called” Mt 2:12, 22 Rom 7:3 Heb 11:7
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• The church of Christ
• The name “Christians” was not
bestowed until after Acts 10…when Gentiles
were included
• Such illustrates the wisdom of God
• No doubt, the Jews would have perverted this
new identity cp. Acts 15:1
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• The church of Christ
• The name of Christ is meaningful
because it is the only name whereby
man can gain his salvation Acts 4:12
• Therefore, the name “Christian” should be the
only religious name man should want to wear
• Yet, we see so much division
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• A multiplicity of man-made churches
Catholic Church
Lutheran Church
Methodist Church
Presbyterian Church
Mormon Church
Episcopal Church
“Jehovah’s Witnesses”
Baptist Church
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Many downplay the different names worn,
believing all are still “united” in Christ
• Wearing different names also means men
practice different things dictated by that
name one wears
• Thus, unity is not achieved
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Consider Gamaliel’s advice in Acts 5:34-39
• He spoke to emphasize the possibility of the
apostles’ preaching coming to nothing
• We consider his words to emphasize that all
men’s works (including religious) eventually
come to naught Mt 15:3, 6, 7-9, 12-13
• Works must have Christ’s approval Mt 7:21-23
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider… The only 1 of a
thing that exists
Eph 4:1-6
• Paul’s instructions = “maintain (preserve) the
unity of the Spirit…” v. 3
• God has provided things that are “unique” that
help bring about this unity one of which is
the “body,” or the church v. 4 cp. 1:22-23
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Eph 4:1-6
• Through the centuries, man has come up with
other “bodies” (churches)
• Therefore, true unity cannot be “preserved” or
maintained upon what would men in these
“bodies” be united?
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Eph 3:10-11
• The church’s task = to make known the
“manifold wisdom of God” v. 10
• This has always been God’s “eternal purpose”
for the church v. 11
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Eph 3:10-11
• The denominationalist’s perspective has the
differing denominations collectively making up
“THE CHURCH” cp. Mt 13:31-32
• If this is correct, such a “CHURCH” cannot
accomplish Eph 3:10
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Eph 3:10-11
• If this is “THE CHURCH”…there would exist
many conflicting views…namely, the doctrine
of man’s salvation
• Which view would be taught? Which “church”
within “THE CHURCH” would decide such?
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider… Aimed at teaching
Eph 4:11-16 the will of God
• The “gifts” (functions) God gave the church
(cp. vv. 7-8) allows saints to be…
…equipped to work vv. 11-12a, 16a
…edified, built up vv. 12b, 16b
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider… Aimed at teaching
Eph 4:11-16 the will of God
• The “gifts” (functions) God gave the church
(cp. vv. 7-8) allows saints to be…
…unified in “the faith” v. 13a
…grown up & mature, no longer children
vv. 13b-15
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Eph 4:11-16
• The “gifts” (functions) God gave the church
(cp. vv. 7-8) also were designed to prevent men
from being “tossed about by every wind of
doctrine from men” v. 14
RELIGIOUS CONFUSION
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Eph 4:11-16
• Therefore, the multiplicity of man-made
churches produce confusion…not the “unity of
the Spirit” God hopes is maintained in the “one
body” (THE CHURCH) revealed in the N.T.
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Jn 17:20-21
• The “outline” of the Lord’s prayer –
He prays for Himself vv. 1-5
He prays for His apostles vv. 6-19
He prays for those the apostles will teach
vv. 20-26
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Jn 17:20-21
• The Lord’s desire for all who come to believe is
that “…they may all be one…” v. 21
• Therefore, all of man’s religious efforts should
be to fulfill the Lord’s fervent desire expressed
in His prayer
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Jn 17:20-21
• The Lord was not discussing what is termed
Ecumenical Unity “Unity In Diversity”
• The unity Jesus desired is stated in v. 21
• The unity of the Father & the Son purpose
• Cp. marriage Gen 2:24 Mt 19:5-6
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Jn 17:20-21
• The existence of all the man-made churches
testifies that man has not sought to honor the
desire of Jesus in His pre-crucifixion prayer
• What is true of unity between Father & Son
should be true of all who claim to follow Christ
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
1 Cor 1:10-13
• Paul addresses sectarian attitudes within the
Christians at Corinth v. 12
• Based upon who had baptized them v. 13b
• Not to say baptism is not important, but something
Paul was glad he had not been a part of vv. 14-15
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
1 Cor 1:10-13
• Thus, unity was being threatened at Corinth
• Christ is “not divided” (compartmentalized) v. 13a
• Is this not the view of mainstream, man-made
denominationalism…a “compartmentalization” of
Christ into various religious bodies?
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
1 Cor 1:10-13
• Quarrels & contentions are the opposite of
unity v. 11
• The solution = “speak the same thing” v. 10
• Division does not exist when we speak thus
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
1 Cor 1:10-13
• The solution = “speak the same thing” v. 10
• Members are to be “perfectly joined together in the
same mind, same judgment”
• Good Biblical illustration of found in Gen 11:1-9
• Notice God’s acknowledgement vv. 1, 6-7
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Gal 1:6-9, 11-12
• Paul “marveled” (was surprised) at what the
Galatian Christians were doing v. 6
• These disciples turned to “a different gospel”
which in effect was not “another” gospel v. 7
• Anything other than genuine truth = a perversion
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Gal 1:6-9, 11-12
• Even if an apostle or an angel (legion) came
with something other than what was originally
delivered, a curse (anathema) would be upon
them vv. 8-9
• Repeated for emphasis
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Passages to consider…
Gal 1:6-9, 11-12
• The gospel delivered by the apostles is not of
men, but came to the Lord’s chosen servants
through direct revelation vv. 11-12
• To “hear” the apostles is to “hear” Christ…
even the Father Himself cp. Lk 10:16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Some Closing Thoughts…
• Unity “won’t just happen”
• Unity occurs only when people agree to
believe and practice the same doctrine
• For this to take place, 1 objective standard
must be agreed to…all other notions must be
rejected out of hand without hesitation
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 3 True Unity In Christ
• Some Closing Thoughts…
• May all humanity truly strive to honor the
Lord’s desire uttered in His prayer Jn 17:21
• May all mankind endeavor to “speak the same
things…be of the same mind and the same
judgment” 1 Cor 1:10 cp. Gen 11:1, 6-7
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
• “Publishing Facts” about the Bible…
• Greatest best-seller of all time
• Translated into more languages than any other
book ever written
• The most “discussed” literary work…from both
a positive (accepted) & negative (rejected)
viewpoint
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
• Given such “publishing facts,” one would
expect the vast majority of its owners &
readers to have a deep, reverential awe for it
• However, that is not the case
• Given how most “Bible owners & readers” live
morally and practice their religion, they actually
show a lack of respect for the “Book of books”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
• How one views the Bible determines…
• …what he is morally, socially, religiously
• …where he will spend his eternity
• Man must realize the only way for any of us
to know what God expects of us is for Him
to tell us the Bible is such a “message”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
• God has indeed told us His will for us
Heb 1:1-2 1 Cor 2:6-16 Eph 3:1-5
• The theme of this lesson will be to prove the
Bible to be God’s only book
• It has no predecessor, successor Mt 12:31-32
• As His only message, it is authoritative
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Source Of The Bible
• Before any discussion begins, all must agree
with the premise The Bible Comes From God
• Man’s quest find “the” book from God that
will instruct him on how to live, worship, etc.
• Two ways to accomplish this goal
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Source Of The Bible
• Two ways to accomplish this goal:
1. Read every book ever written…eliminate one by
one all books determined not to be “the” book
• Physically impossible
• Divinely warned against such a mindset
cp. Eccl 12:11-12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Source Of The Bible
• Two ways to accomplish this goal:
2. Find “the” book that satisfies all demands for
Divine authenticity…reject all others
• Very possible…very “do-able”
• The Bible claims to be “that book”
cp. Jer 1:9 1 Thess 2:13 2 Tim 3:16-17
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A completely “harmonious” literary work
• Authored by 1 Divine author
• Penned by numerous & divergent human penmen
over a period of roughly 1,500 years
• The only explanation is that the Scripture is of
Divine origin, not human cp. 2 Pet 1:19-21
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A literary work containing fulfilled prophecies
• Prophecies written in the O.T. hundreds of years
before the events actually took place
• Release of Jews from captivity by Cyrus, king of
Persia ca. 538 B.C.
• Spoken of by Isaiah some 170 years before
Cyrus even born Isa 44:28 HOW ??
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A literary work containing fulfilled prophecies
• Prophecies written in the O.T. hundreds of years
before the events actually took place
• Birth of the Messiah to a virgin in Bethlehem
• Spoken of by prophets some 700 years before it
happened Isa 7:14 Mic 5:1-5 cp. Mt 2:3-6
HOW ??
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A scientifically & historically “validated” book
• The Bible is not a science or history book
• However, it continues to be a book that is
“validated” or “confirmed” by discoveries
• Not that the Bible needs proving…rather, we keep
seeing the Bible to have been correct all along
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A scientifically & historically “validated” book
• Examples of such accuracies in the Bible:
• The former world-wide paradigm that the Earth
was flat disproved by Magellan in 1519
• What the Bible already said Isa 40:22 Prov 8:27
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A scientifically & historically “validated” book
• Examples of such accuracies in the Bible:
• The former belief that the Earth is held in its place
on the back of a giant turtle, or on the back &
shoulders of the giant strongman Atlas
• Sir Isaac Newton discovered gravity in 1664
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A scientifically & historically “validated” book
• Examples of such accuracies in the Bible:
• The Bible already had the answer Job 26:7
• When we saw the Earth from outer space pictures,
we were reminded again of the Bible’s accuracy
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A scientifically & historically “validated” book
• Examples of such accuracies in the Bible:
• The British Museum expedition of 1929 confirmed
a world-wide flood from centuries past
• The Bible already stated this as fact Gen 6-8
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A scientifically & historically “validated” book
• Examples of such accuracies in the Bible:
• The most accurate dimensions of ship building
• Once again, the Bible already knew Gen 6:15
L W H
30 : 5 : 3
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A scientifically & historically “validated” book
• Examples of such accuracies in the Bible:
• The existence of basic oceanographic lanes
• Discovered & charted by Matthew Fontaine Maury
“The Father Of Oceanography”
• Already known by the Bible Psa 8:8
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Nature Of The Bible
• A scientifically & historically “validated” book
• Examples of such accuracies in the Bible:
• Many other examples could be cited
• These prove the Bible possesses information
man eventually discovers…thus validating
the Scripture
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Inerrancy Of The Bible
• “Inerrancy” = “To be infallibly & inherently
correct; to be free from error” [Webster]
• This connects the nature of God Himself with
the nature of His word
• A connection made by Heb 4:12-13
• Our view of God must match our view of Him
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Inerrancy Of The Bible
• What we know re: God’s character…
Num 23:19 Titus 1:2 Heb 6:18
• What we know re: the source of Scripture…
2 Tim 3:16-17
• Therefore, we know His word only contains
truth…it has no error or false information
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Durability Of The Bible
• One of the Bible’s most salient features is its
indestructibleness
• Most likely, no other literary work in history
has had to endure as many determined
“attacks” at being destroyed as has the Bible
• Both literally as well as figuratively
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Durability Of The Bible
• Attempts on the Bible…
• Biblical example Jehoiakim Jer 36
• Secular examples –
• Antiochus Epiphanes ca. 170 B.C.
• Diocletian ca. 303
• Roman Catholic popes
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
The Durability Of The Bible
• Despite such attempts, the word of God will
always endure…man is unable to permanently
destroy it cp. Mt 24:35 1 Pet 1:23-25
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
Other Books Besides The Bible
• Even though more than sufficient proof exists
that the Bible is God’s only book, other books
have arisen in history claiming to be from God
• The only way to know their “genuineness” is
to compare them to the Bible
• If they say more than the Bible too much
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
Other Books Besides The Bible
• Even though more than sufficient proof exists
that the Bible is God’s only book, other books
have arisen in history claiming to be from God
• The only way to know their “genuineness” is
to compare them to the Bible
• If they say less than the Bible not enough
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
Other Books Besides The Bible
• Even though more than sufficient proof exists
that the Bible is God’s only book, other books
have arisen in history claiming to be from God
• The only way to know their “genuineness” is
to compare them to the Bible
• If they say same as the Bible don’t need
them Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
Other Books Besides The Bible
• The Book of Mormon
• This book contradicts the Bible on many issues,
and contains many errors
• One of the most “notable” errors is its teaching
on man and his sin
• Book of Mormon 2 Nephi 2:21
• Bible Ezek 18:1-3, 20 Rom 5:12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
Other Books Besides The Bible
• The Book of Mormon
• Therefore, we conclude this book is not from
God and is to be rejected as erroneous and
fraudulent
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
Other Books Besides The Bible
• The Koran
• It, too, contradicts the Bible on several topics
• Most notably, re: the death of Jesus Christ
• The Koran 4:157-159
• The Bible Lk 23:33 Mk 15:42-45 Jn 19:31-35
• Therefore, we conclude this book is also a fraud
and is to be rejected
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
Other Books Besides The Bible
• The Watchtower Bible &Tract Society
• Publications of “Jehovah’s Witness”
• They contradict Biblical teaching…most notably,
their teachings that deny the Godhead
• The Bible teaches otherwise Gen 1:1-2, 26
Jn 1:1-4, 14 8:24, 58 Micah 5:2 Acts 5:3-4
Rom 1:20 Col 2:9
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
Other Books Besides The Bible
• The Watchtower Bible &Tract Society
• They also have repeatedly made vain predictions
re: the end of the world
• The Bible teaches otherwise Mk 13:32
• Therefore, these publications are not from God,
and they must be also be rejected as fraudulent
and erroneous
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
Other Books Besides The Bible
• The denominations mentioned in our previous
study also have their “creed books”
• They, too, are to be rejected because of
beliefs held and statements made that
contradict the Scripture
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
The Methodist Discipline
Wherefore, that we are justified by faith only
is the most wholesome doctrine and very full
of comfort." (Article IX, para. 69.)
The Bible
You see then that a man is justified by works,
and not by faith only. (Jas 2:24)
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
• Some Closing Thoughts…
• God’s “1 message” has been successfully
delivered to His saints Jude 3
• Man is not able to direct his own destiny…he
needs God, His word Jer 10:23
• He is encouraged to consider all available
paths and ask for the “old paths” Jer 6:16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
• Some Closing Thoughts…
• It is “foolish” to desert what the apostles have
delivered and take up with “other doctrines”…
which really aren’t God’s words Gal 1:6-9 3:1
• God has always given His people the ability to
know true teachers from false teachers
Deut 18:14-22 1 Jn 4:1
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 4 The Bible…The Only Book
• Some Closing Thoughts…
• David illustrates the disaster that results when
we do not seek God after “His due order”
• David’s error 2 Sam 6:1-11 1 Chron 15:2, 11-15
• God’s due order Ex 25:10-15 Num 4:5, 15
Recorded in 1 source
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
• The Bible…“God’s only Book”…has two
different covenants showing how God has
dealt with man through the ages
• Defined, “covenant” = An agreement
between persons or parties
• They can be social, political, economic, or
religious
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
• There may not be a greater contributor to
religious confusion than in the failure to
recognize the difference between covenants
• Many erroneous religious practices exist
because of this failure
• Tithing, a priesthood, instrumental music,
observing the Ten Commandments, etc.
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
• Some teach the 1st covenant never ended…
the 2nd covenant is simply a “continuation”
• This clearly is not Biblical Heb 8:7, 13
• Neither is it correct to just “dismiss” the 1st
covenant because there is a 2nd one
cp. Rom 7:6-13 15:4 1 Cor 10:1-11
Heb 2:1-3
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
• The 2nd covenant “makes more sure”
(strengthens) the prophetic writings of the
1st covenant 2 Pet 1:16-21
• Peter offers apostolic “eye witness” testimony
re: Jesus vv. 16-18
• He also points back to the prophets v. 19
• Writings we would “do well to heed”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Origin, Confirmation, & Violation
• God desired a covenant with a people He
considered His own Ex 3:7, 10 cp. Gen 17:2, 6-7
• A covenant that had conditions Ex 19:4-6
• Application for 2nd covenant people 1 Pet 2:4-10
• The parties of this covenant were clearly identified
Deut 5:2-4
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Origin, Confirmation, & Violation
• God had this covenant recorded in a “book” and
ratified or confirmed Ex 24:3-7 Heb 9:18-21
• Eventually, Israel “broke” this covenant Jer 31:32
• She “broke” the covenant by not continuing in it…
she was disobedient Heb 8:9
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Purpose
• To be a national & religious law for Israel
• It mandated proper civil & moral treatment of their
fellow man Ex 21-23
• It regulated proper & acceptable worship of
Jehovah Ex 25-31 cp. 25:10 – 31:11
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Purpose
• To make transgressions, sin evident Rom 7:5-11
Gal 3:19
• Sin was aroused, made known Rom 7:5, 7
• Sin took opportunity through the commandment…
produced evil desire, deceived, and killed Rom 7:8, 11
• Law therefore “added” because of transgressions
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Purpose
• To bring man to Christ so that he might be justified
by his faith in Jesus Gal 3:24
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Forecast Of The New Covenant
• 1st covenant given around 1445 B.C.
• Some 900 years later, it stated God would make a
“new covenant” unlike the old one Jer 31:31-34
• The old covenant would serve as a “tutor” or
“schoolmaster” in pointing toward the new one
Gal 3:19-25
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Forecast Of The New Covenant
• Understanding this concept of a “tutor” Gal 3:24
• Word is “paidagogos” English pedagogue
• A common feature in ancient Greco-Roman
“well-to-do” families who had minor children
• This was a slave given charge of the minor children
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Forecast Of The New Covenant
• Until minor children reached the age of maturity,
they were under the supervision (care) of this slave
• He enforced moral behavior, took them to school, etc.
• When the child reached maturity, he no longer
needed the “paidagogos”…he became free
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Forecast Of The New Covenant
• The Old Testament Scriptures lead one to Christ
• They “make one wise” for salvation ultimately
found in Christ (the Seed) 2 Tim 2:15
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The Old Covenant
Its Forecast Of The New Covenant
• “When faith came,” man is no longer under the
“tutor” Gal 3:25
• The Law had served its purpose…not to justify, but
to lead us to (point us toward) Christ
• A distinction between the covenants Rom 8:1-4
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Origin
• It did not come into force when the Seed came
• The Seed lived under the 1st Covenant Mt 5:17-18
• The 1st Covenant would not be “destroyed” or set
aside by the Seed…rather, He came to “fulfill”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Origin
• The 1st Covenant was ultimately fulfilled when it
was “nailed to the cross” Col 2:14
• This death also ratified (sealed) the 2nd Covenant
Heb 9:11-18
• Sins committed under the 1st Covenant were taken care
of “retroactively” [“Anticipatory” Forgiveness]
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Origin
• The 2nd Covenant came into force on the first Day
of Pentecost following the crucifixion of Christ…
50 days after Passover [Feast of Weeks]
Acts 1-2 cp. Lev 23:15
• NOTE: The “church” of Acts 2:47 is the “house” in
2 Sam 7:12-13, 16 cp. 1 Tim 3:15 1 Pet 2:4-6
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Relation To The Old Covenant
• 9 of the 10 Commandments from the 1st Covenant
are repeated in the 2nd Covenant, either verbatim or
in principle
• Examples:
• Adultery Ex 20:14 1 Cor 6:9 Gal 5:19
• Honor parents Ex 20:12 Eph 6:2-3
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Relation To The Old Covenant
• 9 of the 10 Commandments from the 1st Covenant
are repeated in the 2nd Covenant, either verbatim or
in principle
• This teaches us God has not changed how He feels
about moral issues cp. Heb 13:8 Jas 1:17
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Relation To The Old Covenant
• The only 1 of the 10 Commandments from the
1st Covenant not repeated in the 2nd Covenant
pertains to acceptable worship Ex 20:8-11
• God has ordained a different day of worship under
the gospel of Christ cp. Acts 2:1 20:7
1 Cor 16:1-2
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Superior Features
A greater emphasis Heb 8:10 cp. 2 Cor 3:2-3
• A more “internalized” covenant
• Written on human hearts, not tablets of stone
• When we live out the 2nd Covenant, we become
“living epistles” read by all
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Superior Features
A greater emphasis Heb 8:10 cp. 2 Cor 3:2-3
• This does not mean the 1st Covenant was not to
be “internalized” cp. Deut 6:5 Lev 19:18
• The emphasis is the 2nd Covenant is easier to
“internalize” than the 1st Covenant
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Superior Features
A greater emphasis Heb 8:10 cp. 2 Cor 3:2-3
• Other Biblical passages emphasizing this
contrast between the “letter” & the “Spirit”…
2 Cor 3:6-7 Jer 31:31-33 Rom 2:28-29 7:6
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Superior Features
More informed participants Heb 8:11
• 1st Covenant participants still had to be taught
to “know the Lord” cp. Gen 17:9-12
• Even when in “covenant” with God, they did not
know about their “freedom” Deut 6:6-7, 20-23
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Superior Features
More informed participants Heb 8:11
• 2nd Covenant participants will not have to be
taught to “know the Lord” cp. Jn 6:44-45
• Such knowledge about God, “freedom” comes
before entering the covenant Jn 8:31-32
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Superior Features
Better privileges Heb 8:12 10:1-4
• 1st Covenant participants had an annual
“reminder” their sins
• They had to wait on Christ, His D/B/R before
they could be completely forgiven of their sins
Heb 9:11-15
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
The New Covenant
Its Superior Features
Better privileges Heb 8:12
• 2nd Covenant participants enjoy “total” pardon
before they enter into covenant with God
• Their iniquities and sins are “remembered no
more” because of the superior blood of Christ
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
2 Cor 3:2-14
• Notice the “terms of identification”
1st Covenant 2nd Covenant
- “Letter” - “Spirit”
- “Ministry of Death” - “Ministry of the Spirit”
- “Ministry of - “Ministry of Righteousness”
Condemnation”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
2 Cor 3:2-14
• The 2 covenants are compared on various criteria:
Upon what they were written v. 3
• 1st Covenant on tablets of stone; 2nd Covenant on
human hearts
Their purpose v. 6
• 1st Covenant “kills”; 2nd Covenant “gives life”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
2 Cor 3:2-14
• The 2 covenants are compared on various criteria:
Their shades of glory vv. 7-11, 13
• 1st Covenant had “glory” seen in Moses’ face after
he communed with God…it eventually faded;
2nd Covenant has “more glory”…a “surpassing
glory” found only in Christ
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Gal 3:1-2, 10-29
• “Receiving the Spirit” will not come through works
of the Law, but only through the “hearing of faith”
v. 2
• Attempting to gain salvation, justification through a
Law system only brings a “curse”…the curse of
“perfection” vv. 10-14
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Gal 3:1-2, 10-29
• The promise of salvation actually precedes the Law
given through Moses vv. 16-18
• This “promise” was eventually realized “when the
Seed” came, or “when faith came” vv. 19-23a
• Until such a time, the Law was a “tutor” to lead us
to Christ vv. 23b-29
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Gal 4:21-31
• Paul uses an “inspired allegory” to illustrate the
danger of the Galatians heeding Judaizing teachers
• Centers around the 2 sons of Abraham Gen 16, 21
• One “according to the flesh” v. 23a
• The other “through the promise” v. 23b
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Gal 4:21-31
• Hagar = “bondwoman”…Mt. Sinai…“present
Jerusalem” The Law (1st Covenant) vv. 22, 25
• Sarah = “freewoman”…“Jerusalem above”
The Gospel (2nd Covenant) vv. 22, 26
• Christians are like Isaac…“children of promise”
v. 28
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Gal 4:21-31
• Sarah gave instructions re: Ishmael when he began
to persecute Isaac vv. 29-30 cp. Gen 21:9-13
• Paul then applies this statement “Cast out the
bondwoman” to the Galatians re: the doctrine the
Judaizing teachers were presenting v. 31
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Eph 2:14-16
• Paul discusses “peace” re: Gentiles & Jews
• Gentiles were once “outsiders” & “strangers” to
the covenants of the promise v. 12
• Yet, all who are “afar off” (Gentiles) were brought
near by the blood of Christ v. 13
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Eph 2:14-16
• In His death, Jesus broke down the dividing wall
between Jews & Gentiles…a “wall” of “enmity …the
“Law of commandments & ordinances” vv. 14-15
• Two groups of people previously separated by the
1st Covenant are now “reconciled in one body to
God” v. 16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Eph 2:14-16
• Notice both Jews & Gentiles were adversely
affected by the Law (1st Covenant)
• Jews were “locked up in sin” Gal 3:23
• Gentiles were “locked out in sin” Eph 2:12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Col 2:14-17
• A parallel passage to Eph 2:14-16
• Dead ones are “made alive” through God’s
forgiveness because of Christ’s D/B/R vv. 11-13
• Christ cancelled out the “certificate of debt” (Law)
that was “hostile” & “contrary” to man (both Jew &
Gentile) v. 14
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Col 2:14-17
• This “certificate of debt” was “taken out of the way”
by being “nailed to His cross” v. 14
• Imagery of something being paid
• As a result, the Law should no longer be used as a
basis for judgment vv. 16-17
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Col 2:14-17
• The things mandated and spoken of in the Law were
only “a shadow of the things to come” under the
2nd Covenant v. 17 cp. Heb 8:5 10:1
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 1:1-2; 2:1-4
• God has always spoken to humanity
• Through whom He spoke, how He spoke has changed
• In days past (1st Covenant), He spoke “to the fathers in
the prophets” 1:1
• Now, “in these last days” (2nd Covenant), He has
spoken “to us in His Son 1:2
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 1:1-2; 2:1-4
• The Bible teaches us these “last days” are the days
of the gospel age…the days of the New Testament
Isa 2:2-3 Mic 4:1-2 Dan 2:28-45
Joel 2:28-32 Acts 2:17-21
• There will be no more days after the 2nd Covenant
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 1:1-2; 2:1-4
• The 1st Covenant was “spoken through angels”
2:2a cp. Acts 7:53 Gal 3:19
• Transgressions committed under this covenant
were faithfully & fairly punished…this covenant
proved to be “unalterable” or “steadfast” 2:2b
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 1:1-2; 2:1-4
• What should we expect re: transgressions we
commit under the 2nd Covenant…especially since
we know it to be a greater covenant with a Greater
Spokesman? 2:3
• This proves the superiority of the 2nd Covenant
over the 1st Covenant
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 3:1-6
• God had 2 faithful servants in His “houses”
• Moses was faithful as a “servant in the house” v. 5
• Jesus is faithful as a “Son over His house” v. 6
• Jesus is due more glory than Moses, just as the
builder of the house receives more glory than
the house v. 3
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 4:1-11
• During the days of the 1st Covenant, “…a promise
remained of entering His rest” v. 1
• The rest spoken of by Joshua was not “the ultimate
rest” God had in mind for His people v. 8
• If Joshua provided this rest, God would not have spoken
of another one yet to come
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 4:1-11
• Israel did not realize this “rest” because of her
disobedience v. 6
• She did not unite the “good news” preached to her
with faith…she failed because of unbelief v. 2
• We are therefore similarly exhorted re: the “rest that
remains” vv. 9, 11
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 7:1-19
• A Priest “after the order of Melchizedek” arose
apart from the Law of Moses vv. 1-11
• Melchizedek’s priesthood is perpetual v. 3
• Melchizedek blessed Abraham, received tithes from the
patriarch vv. 2, 4-8 cp. Gen 14:18-20
• Even Levi (on behalf of priests) paid tithes vv. 9-10
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 7:1-19
• If “perfection were through Levitical priests, what
further need was there that another priest should
arise after the order of Melchizedek?” v. 11
• Therefore, a change in priesthood necessitated a
change in the law also v. 12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 7:1-19
• The One “of whom these things are spoken”
belongs to another tribe that has never officiated at
the altar v. 13
• Jesus, from the tribe of Judah, is He who is after
“the order of Melchizedek” (King & Priest)
cp. Psa 110:4 Zech 6:13
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 7:1-19
• The “former commandment” (1st Covenant) is set
aside because of its weakness and uselessness
v. 18
• The “better hope” (2nd Covenant) is brought in
through which we can draw near to God v. 19
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 8:6-13
• A quotation from Jer 31:31-34
• Thus, the 1st Covenant declared God would
eventually bring about a “new covenant”
• The 1st Covenant was not faultless in that it could not
bring about (never was intended to) man’s complete
forgiveness v. 7
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 5 The Old & New Covenants
Passages That Address The 2 Covenants…
Heb 8:6-13
• A quotation from Jer 31:31-34
• In bringing about the 2nd Covenant, God makes the
1st Covenant “obsolete” (old) and ready to “vanish
away” (disappear) v. 13
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• Why Study Biblical Authority?
• In some realms of life, it is not necessary to
study (i.e. be concerned about) an “exclusive”
claim of authority
• Politics competing parties, rules of government
• Economics different theories for different times
• In such realms, alternatives are equal
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• Why Study Biblical Authority?
• However, in religion, there is every reason to
study, be concerned about authority
• Man has no authoritative say cp. Mt 28:18
• This is the only realm that carries eternal
consequences…it matters whether or not we are
pleasing the Lord cp. Mt 7:21-23
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• Why Study Biblical Authority?
• Anytime there has been a departure from the
“pattern” God has decreed, sin has occurred
• If what results from human efforts is not like the
“pattern” revealed in the Scripture (God’s 1
book), it will not be pleasing to God…no matter
what we might think about it cp. Heb 8:5
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• Why Study Biblical Authority?
• This concept is especially important for young
Christians to understand
• Historically, every issue that has resulted in division
among the Lord’s people has been due to a failure
to understand, accept, & apply Biblical authority
• To avoid repeating these errors from the past, we
must study & teach for the future
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Importance Of Biblical Authority
• Having a solid understanding on authority is
important for 2 main reasons…
Knowing how to define, understand, and apply
Biblical authority allows us to teach unbelievers,
deal with brethren who want to take the church
into apostasy
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Importance Of Biblical Authority
• Having a solid understanding on authority is
important for 2 main reasons…
Knowing how to define, understand, and apply
Biblical authority allows the people of God to
maintain their “distinctive separateness” in a
world given over to sin, and to continue to serve
God in the ways He has ordained
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Importance Of Biblical Authority
• This “distinctive separateness” is in jeopardy
as homes & churches continue to fail in their
obligations to teach
• Consider the disappointing survey results on
page 22
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Illustrating The Need
For Authority
The issue to be decided…
What is the length of this line?
The only right way to determine…
consult the standard
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Imagine a world without any authority
• All sense of order would be lost…we would live
in a world full of only chaos
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
1 second =
9,192,631,770
oscillations
(cycles) of the
cesium atom
NIST-F1 Cesium Fountain Atomic Clock
Thematic Studies In United States
The Primary Time & Frequency Standard For TheBible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Imagine a world without any authority
• All sense of order would be lost…we would live
in a world full of only chaos
• Biblically, the most “chaotic” time may have
been the days of The Judges cp. Judg 17:6
1 Kings 2:3-4
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• In our day, “religious anarchy” can be equally
confusing to anyone searching for truth
• All “religious options” are presented as equally
viable and acceptable
• The division that results is hardly anything like
what the Lord prayed for cp. Jn 17:17-21
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Authority is not just necessary on a collective
level, but also on an individual level
• All are individually accountable cp. Mt 25:21, 23
2 Cor 5:10
• Even if everyone else is doing wrong, I am still
individually accountable to God’s authority
Gen 6:8 Rev 3:4
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
A relevant question is found in Mt 21:23-27
• Events surrounding Jesus’ 2nd temple cleansing
• The Jews asked Jesus “By what authority do You
do these things? Who gave You this authority?”
• Jesus’ reply is the relevant question we want to
consider v. 25
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
A relevant question is found in Mt 21:23-27
• The Lord’s question narrows the choices to only 2
options as to the source of religious activities:
Heaven (Divine) OR Men (Human)
• This is precisely the question that should be asked
of any religious practice today
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The Jew’s failure to answer in Mt 21:25b
• The Jews showed some understanding re: John’s
baptism had they admitted it came from heaven
• They knew Jesus would question their failure to
receive it if this had been their answer to His
question
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The Jew’s failure to answer in Mt 21:25b
• Their question of Jesus was fair, legitimate
• Notice Jesus even offered to answer it
• He did not rebuke their question…He only rebuked
their blatant hypocrisy
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The incident of Nadab & Abihu in Lev 10:1-3
• Aaron’s 2 sons acted without Divine authority re:
their priestly duties v. 1
• They used something God had never commanded
• Point when we act on our own, we risk God’s
displeasure, rejection, & judgment v. 2
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The incident of Nadab & Abihu in Lev 10:1-3
• We also learn from this episode there is no room
for emotionalism when dealing with God’s authority
• Moses had to remind his brother what the Lord had
already said re: those who would come near to or
approach Him v. 3
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The incident of Nadab & Abihu in Lev 10:1-3
• What kind of “emotional arguments” as a father
could Aaron have made re: his 2 sons, their death?
• The fact that “Aaron held his peace” teaches us the
seriousness of respecting God’s authority…even
when we might want to see things another way
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The incident of Uzziah in 2 Chron 26:16-20
• Even though he was king, Uzziah had no authority
to act as priest vv. 16b,18 cp. Ex 30:7
• We are reminded again of the truthfulness of the
inspired proverb Prov 16:18
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The incident of Uzziah in 2 Chron 26:16-20
• Not only must we do what is right, but we must also
make sure we do what is right in the right way
• We are also reminded that no one is immune from
accountability toward God, His word
(Kings, Elders, Preachers, Parents)
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The incident of the apostles in Acts 15:24
• The apostles were “ambassadors”…the official
representative of the King cp. 2 Cor 5:20
• The “apostles’ doctrine” characterized the early
church, its preaching cp. Acts 2:42
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The incident of the apostles in Acts 15:24
• Some Jewish brethren (Judaizing teachers) began
troubling Gentile Christians, whole churches re:
the issue of circumcision
• Re: these men & their teaching, the apostles had
given “no such commandment”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The incident of the apostles in Acts 15:24
• This statement reinforces the delegated authority
the apostles had from Jesus Christ cp. Lk 10:16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The prophecy of Jeremiah in Jer 2:13
• The people had rejected God & His will for them…
the prophet chides them for this foolish error
vv. 9-11
• The severity of their rejection is beautifully
illustrated
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
The prophecy of Jeremiah in Jer 2:13
• “Living waters” = natural springs…God-given
• “Hewn cisterns” = dug wells…man-made
• These “cisterns” were broken…would not provide
them what they would need
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
Modern-day “broken cisterns”…
• Parents Though parents (family) do come
from God, He never meant for them
to be followed no matter what His
word teaches cp. Mt 10:34-37
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
Modern-day “broken cisterns”…
• Conscience We should never violate our
conscience Rom 14:23
Yet, our conscience can be
ill-trained and be wrong
cp. Acts 23:1 8:1, 3
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
Modern-day “broken cisterns”…
• Human Wisdom Wisdom from man is faulty;
it is subjective, not objective
1 Cor 1:21 2:13-14 3:19
Isa 55:8-9 Jer 8:8-9
PRINCIPLE 1 Cor 4:6
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
Modern-day “broken cisterns”…
• Preachers Preaching is important to
God, His will Rom 10:14
Yet, preachers are still only
men…there is no “clergy”
system in the Bible
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
Modern-day “broken cisterns”…
• Preachers Preachers are authoritative
only when they speak the
word of God truthfully
1 Tim 6:3-5 2 Tim 4:1-5
1 Pet 4:11
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
Modern-day “broken cisterns”…
• Feelings Our feelings only address
physical needs; they cannot
settle spiritual matters.
They can be wrong
Gen 37:29-36 Prov 28:26
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Need For Biblical Authority
• Questions To Discuss…
Modern-day “broken cisterns”…
• Human Creeds Such “religious manuals” are
only as good as the human
wisdom that produces them.
They invalidate the word of
God cp. Mt 15:1-9
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
• Want to emphasize a subtle distinction…
• We should not make our appeal to the New
Testament (2nd Covenant)
• For authority in religion, we should make our
appeal to Jesus Christ Mt 28:18 Heb 1:1-2
• His identity makes the N.T. relevant, binding
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
• As an extension of Himself, Jesus hand chose
12 disciples…eventually made them “apostles”
Mt 10:5, 16 Jn 13:20 20:21
• These men were given a “unique” place in the
history of the N.T. church Eph 2:20 1 Cor 3:11
• They were eyewitnesses cp. Acts 1:15-26
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
• To believe & teach the apostles as having
authority doesn’t deify them…it only recognizes
their unique standing in the N.T. kingdom
• The authority of Jesus Christ is inherent
• The authority of His apostles is delegated
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of Jesus Christ
• Authoritative by claims He made re: Himself
Jn 7:16-18 12:42-50
• As the “Apostle and High Priest of our confession”
Jesus has the right to speak with authority Heb 3:1
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of Jesus Christ
• Authoritative by claims He made re: man’s destiny
• Our eternal destiny depends on our reaction to His
claims about being the Messiah Lk 12:8-9
• We are either “wise” or “foolish” based on how we
respond to what He says, teaches Mt 7:24, 26
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of Jesus Christ
• Authoritative by the inherent nature of His works
• His works bear witness to His identity Jn 5:36
• He could heal and forgive Mt 9:1-8
• Both were easy for Him to do
• Both are hard (impossible) for man to do
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of Jesus Christ
• Authoritative by the inherent nature of His works
• He could heal and forgive Mt 9:1-8
• His “works” were indicative of His ability and right
to forgive sins while on earth among men v. 6
• Who could forgive sins but God alone? cp. Mk 2:7
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of Jesus Christ
• Authoritative by the inherent nature of His works
• His disciples are to believe His association with the
Father based on these works Jn 14:10-11
• The purpose of these “works” is to produce within man
enough faith in that he accepts Jesus as the Messiah
Jn 20:30-31
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of The Apostles
• Some claim, “I only read the red letters in the N.T.”
• Such thinking denies the important role the apostles
play under the 2nd Covenant and man’s redemption
• Jesus didn’t personally teach all the truth while on
the earth Jn 16:12 cp. Acts 1:6 Lk 24:21
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of The Apostles
• Here’s how this “deficiency” on the part of the
apostles was later resolved
• The Holy Spirit would later teach “all things”… bring
these things to the apostles’ remembrance Jn 14:25-26
• The Holy Spirit would bear additional witness of Christ,
offer more testimony Jn 15:26
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of The Apostles
• Here’s how this “deficiency” on the part of the
apostles was later resolved
• The Holy Spirit would later guide the 12 apostles into
“all truth” Jn 16:7-11, 13
• The apostles were given the words the Father gave to
Jesus Jn 17:8, 14
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of The Apostles
• Some important points to keep in mind…
• Notice the phrases “all things” (Jn 14:26) & “all truth”
(Jn 16:13) did not occur until after the coming of the Holy
Spirit upon the apostles
• Even the Holy Spirit did not act on His own authority…
He was submissive to the Father’s will Jn 16:13b
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of The Apostles
• The “process” to which Jesus refers is described in
1 Cor 2:1-16
• God’s “hidden wisdom” in a “mystery” was spoken v. 7
• These things that God prepared for man were searched
out by the Spirit in the mind of God, then later revealed
to the apostles vv. 9-12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of The Apostles
• The “process” to which Jesus refers is described in
1 Cor 2:1-16
• The apostles then “spoke” as well as wrote truth revealed
to them v. 13 cp. Eph 3:3-4
• Man must be “spiritual” and not “natural” to properly
understand authoritative Divine truth vv. 14-16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
The Authority of The Apostles
• What has been revealed to the apostles was not
known in “other generations” Eph 3:5
• A reference to days of the 1st Covenant pp. 17-20
• Previous generations did not have access to what has
now been revealed to the apostles cp. Mt 13:13-17
1 Pet 1:6-12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The authority of Christ portrayed in the Scripture
Mt 17:1-5 & Heb 1:2 SPOKESMAN
• Being transfigured (changed) in the presence of His
disciples gave Jesus the opportunity to be exalted as
the One who must be heard now vv. 4-5
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The authority of Christ portrayed in the Scripture
Heb 9:15-17 TESTATOR
• Through His death, Jesus has mediated a better
covenant…His will, ratified (sealed) by His blood, is
authoritative and unalterable re: the inheritance v. 15
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The authority of Christ portrayed in the Scripture
Acts 2:29-36 & 2 Sam 7:16 KING
• God’s promise made to David was ultimately fulfilled
in Jesus upon His exaltation to the Father’s right hand
to rule the N.T. kingdom vv. 33-35
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The authority of Christ portrayed in the Scripture
Eph 1:22-23 & Col 1:18 HEAD
• Because of what He accomplished in God’s scheme
for man’s redemption, Jesus is the Head of the body…
directing all the actions of the body
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The people’s view of Jesus’ teaching
Mt 7:28-29 & Mt 15:1-9
• They were “astonished” at what they heard
• It sounded nothing like what they were used to hearing
• The Jews elevated their own teaching over God’s
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
Jesus’ “summary statement” Mt 28:18
• Being eternal, Jesus always had this authority
• Having just completed His earthly work (culminating
with His D/B/R), Jesus’ work among men simply
confirmed who He always was & who He claimed to be
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
Reject the apostles…Reject Jesus Lk 10:16
• Jesus’ authority was delegated to His apostles
• Whenever they spoke or taught, the apostles only
taught what the Lord had commanded
cp. 1 Cor 14:37 1 Thess 2:13
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The apostles’ authority portrayed in the Scripture
2 Cor 5:18-20 AMBASSADORS
• Being the “official message carriers” for the King,
they acted in accordance with this delegated authority
• Theirs was a “ministry of reconciliation”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The apostles’ authority portrayed in the Scripture
Mt 19:28 & Lk 22:30 JUDGES
• They would be given “seats of judgment” (thrones)
• They would “judge” through what they spoke, wrote
cp. 1 Thess 2:13 1 Cor 14:37
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The apostles’ authority portrayed in the Scripture
Mt 16:19 KEY HOLDERS
• They were given the “keys of the kingdom”
• They “opened the door of faith” for the Gentiles, using
this “key” cp. Acts 14:27
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The apostles’ authority portrayed in the Scripture
Mt 18:18 & Jn 20:23 REMITTERS or
RETAINERS
• They either “remitted” or “retained” man’s sins by
declaring with God had already decided
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The distinction of the apostles’ teaching Acts 2:42
• The early preaching of the N.T. church was labeled
“the apostles’ doctrine”
• It was “their doctrine” only in that they taught what the
Lord taught, commissioned them to teach Mt 28:20
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 6 Biblical Authority (Part A)
• The Authority Of Christ, His Apostles
Questions
The authoritativeness of the apostles’ teaching
Gal 1:6-9
• What one apostle taught was so authoritative, binding
that even another apostle or an angel sent from heaven
could not teach something different without being put
under a Divine curse
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Defining Biblical Authority
• Authority is expressed in different ways
• In a “general” sense “Involving the whole”
• In a “specified” sense “Restricted, particular”
• Until one recognizes this difference, N.T.
authority for any action(s) cannot and will not
be established cp. Mt 7:21-23
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Defining Biblical Authority
• The “law” which governs general & specific
authority is the “Law Of Exclusion”
• Admittedly, a human term not found in the Bible
• Yet, a Biblical concept necessary to know, apply
• Basic premise the command to do 1 thing
automatically excludes doing anything else
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Defining Biblical Authority
• One must also understand “expediencies”
• A suitable, profitable, or advantageous (lawful) way
to accomplish the obedience of a command
• Something may be an expedient as long as it is not
expressly forbidden elsewhere in the Scripture
• Expediencies only pertain to general authority
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Defining Biblical Authority
• One must also understand “expediencies”
• Text that instructs us is 1 Cor 10:23-33
• They must be lawful v. 23a
• They must edify others vv. 23b-24, 33
• They must never give offense, cause others to
stumble (sin) v. 10:32
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
• Authority expressed either “generally” or
“specifically” will have to be established before
it can be put into practice
• God has not always expressed and established
His will in the same way
• He didn’t in O.T days…He doesn’t “in the last days”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
• Again, we’re discussing communication we
employ ourselves in all our relationships
• Parents, employers, teachers, etc. all give orders to
subordinates in the same way(s) God uses in His
word to express to us His will
• We’re not using some “new method”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
• Authority is established in the following ways:
A command or precept from God
• Direct, expressed statements from God
• Either positive or negative in nature
• Where God has actually spoken…the “easiest”
of the revealed methods to understand
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
• Authority is established in the following ways:
An approved example “Biblical Precedents”
• Actions of 1st century saints who were under
the direct guidance of Holy Spirit-led apostles
• Either positive or negative in nature
• Authoritative = they met with God’s approval
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
• Authority is established in the following ways:
A necessary inference
• Inescapable conclusions one must come to
when considering a passage of Scripture
• A text teaches not only by what it states, but
also by what it demands necessarily (unstated)
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
A command or precept from God
• Positive commands from God
• Abram was to leave Haran Gen 12:1
• Hearers were to repent & be baptized Acts 2:38
• Negative commands from God
• Premeditated murder prohibited Ex 20:13
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
A command or precept from God
• Positive commands from God
• Abram was to leave Haran Gen 12:1
• Hearers were to repent & be baptized Acts 2:38
• Negative commands from God
• Corrupt communication prohibited Eph 4:29
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
Approved Examples
• They must be binding to be authoritative
• Not every example in the N.T. is authoritative
• The determining factor is whether or not the
example itself is incidental or essential to one
obeying God
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
Approved Examples
• Incidental Examples “Go preach the gospel”
• Paul’s actions Acts 13:4-5
• Philip’s actions Acts 8:29-35
• Peter’s actions Acts 10:23-24, 33-43
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
Approved Examples
• Incidental Examples “Care for the needy”
• Some brethren’s actions Acts 2:44-45 4:34-37
• Other brethren’s actions 1 Tim 6:17-18
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
Approved Examples
• Essential Examples # of elders locally
• Their appointment accomplished through gospel
preaching Titus 1:5
• The only way we know how many are to be in a
local church is through an example Acts 14:23
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
Approved Examples
• Essential Examples Treasury Benevolence
• The only way we know who may be helped from
the treasury benevolently is by N.T. examples
and actions directed by apostolic instruction
• Nine passages constitute this teaching
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
Necessary Inferences
• The “inescapable conclusion” from 1 Cor 16:1-2
is to have a treasury into which the collected
funds are to be placed
• Necessary because we are commanded to give
and the funds are to be kept somewhere
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
Necessary Inferences
• The “inescapable conclusion” from Acts 8:35-37
is the necessity of water baptism to salvation
• Necessary because of the eunuch’s question…
would he have asked had not Philip taught it?
• Important because of efforts to minimize this
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
Necessary Inferences
• Important point to remember…
• Not all inferences are “necessary”
• Illustrated in Heb 10:25
• Necessary inference a place to assemble
• Unnecessary inference actual church bldg.
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Applied To One Issue
• No single “method” gives all pertinent details
re: our observance of the Lord’s Supper
• Therefore, we must study everything revealed
about this important topic to ensure we have all
the truth cp. Psa 119:160
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Applied To One Issue
Authorization to partake of the Lord’s Supper
Command Mt 26:26-29 1 Cor 11:23-25
• The actual observance is authorized when
Jesus commanded “Take, eat…” and
“This do in remembrance of Me.”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Applied To One Issue
Authorization to partake of the Lord’s Supper
Approved Example (Precedent) Acts 20:7
• The “when” is authorized when the inspired
record tells us the early disciples came
together “to break bread”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Applied To One Issue
Authorization to partake of the Lord’s Supper
Approved Example (Precedent) Acts 20:7
• The only authorized day is Sunday
• Did Jesus’ command address “when” the
Supper is to be eaten?
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Applied To One Issue
Authorization to partake of the Lord’s Supper
Necessary Inference Acts 20:7
• The “frequency” is authorized when the
inspired record tells us the early disciples
came together “to break bread”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Applied To One Issue
Authorization to partake of the Lord’s Supper
Necessary Inference Acts 20:7
• The implication is that they came together
every first day of the week to eat the Supper
• Paul tarried in Troas to meet, eat with them
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Applied To One Issue
Authorization to partake of the Lord’s Supper
Necessary Inference Acts 20:7
• The phrase “break bread” has to refer to the
Lord’s Supper…if a common meal, why
would Paul wait 7 days to eat it?
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Applied To One Issue
Authorization to partake of the Lord’s Supper
Necessary Inference Acts 20:7
• An O.T. parallel…The 4th Commandment
• The wording & reasoning of Ex 20:8 is similar
to Acts 20:7 implied is how often
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• What makes our approach and these “methods”
Biblical is that we can see them utilized by the
early Christians…especially when they had to
settle controversies that plagued the church in
its infancy (approx. 20 years since it began)
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• First century disciples had to do what we must
do…establish authority for whatever they did to
be certain they were doing heaven’s will
• Principle we can truly be what they were
when we do what they did
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• The Issue Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15
• Judaizers constantly opposed the apostles,
their teaching cp. 13:8, 45, 50 14:2, 19 15:1
• The issue eventually reached a decisive point…
brethren were “troubled” & “unsettled” v. 24
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• The Issue Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15
• How the early Christians, under the direction of
the apostles, went about settling this dispute is
precisely the focus of this lesson
• They appealed to this same 3-fold approach
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• The Issue Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15
• Established by an Example vv. 7-11
• Peter discusses his work among the
uncircumcised Gentiles
• He references his visit with Cornelius vv. 7-10
cp. 10:44-47
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• The Issue Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15
• Established by an Example vv. 7-11
• The Gentiles had been “saved” v. 11 cp. v. 1
• This served as an example of how God had
“cleansed the Gentiles by faith” without them
submitting to circumcision v. 9
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• The Issue Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15
• Established by a Necessary Inference v. 12
• Paul & Barnabas discuss their mission work
among the uncircumcised, emphasizing the
signs & wonders they did cp. 2:4, 43 3:7-10
5:12-16 6:8 8:6 9:32-42
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• The Issue Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15
• Established by a Necessary Inference v. 12
• Miracles were done among Jews & Gentiles
• This infers that God was willing to accept the
Gentiles without them submitting to
circumcision
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• The Issue Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15
• Established by a Command vv. 13-18
• James reminds everyone what God had earlier
spoken through one of the prophets
cp. Amos 9:11-12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• The Issue Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15
• Established by a Command vv. 13-18
• If God had already spoken about bringing in the
Gentiles with no mention of them being
circumcised, that settled the issue
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 7 Biblical Authority (Part B)
• Establishing Biblical Authority
All 3 Methods Used By 1st Century Christians
• The Issue Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15
• Establishing authority using this “3-approach
method” accomplished 2 important things…
The controversy was solved v. 19
Unity was produced in the churches v. 31
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• The previous material has emphasized the
authority of what God has said
• The following material emphasizes the
authority of what God has not said
• Both of these are equally authoritative
• In fact, respect is especially shown when God
is silent
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• A very common question asked whenever
God has not spoken re: a matter is “Why
can’t we…?”
• This is basically decided by 2 extremes –
God’s silence is permissive
God’s silence is prohibitive
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• The argument over the “permissiveness” or
“prohibitiveness” of God’s silence is not a
new debate
• This debate was had even during the days
of the Religious Reformation
(15th & 16th centuries)
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• A key verse containing a guiding principle in
this “debate” is Deut 29:29
• What God has said belongs to us
• What God has not said is a “secret” – belongs
to Him
• This is a principle that even earthly parents
understand, employ with their children
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Principles re: God’s silence from the O.T.
• Israel at the Red Sea Ex 14:10-14
• They had to “wait” for God’s answer vv. 13-14
• They had already asked the “Why couldn’t we…”
questions vv. 11-12
• They were eventually told to “Go forward” toward
the sea God helps in “bleak” situations
• This teaches us to “wait” for God’s answer
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Principles re: God’s silence from the O.T.
• Israel during the Passover Num 9:1-14
• They were told to observe the Passover as the
Law directed vv. 2-3
• A situation arose that was an exception vv. 6-7
• Moses’ reply, “Wait…I’ll go ask the Lord” v. 8
• God made additional provisions re: this situation
vv. 10-12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Principles re: God’s silence from the O.T.
• Israel at the Red Sea Ex 14:10-14
• Israel during the Passover Num 9:1-14
What these examples teach us is that
we are not at liberty to act when God is
silent on an issue…we must determine
His will before doing anything
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Disregarding God’s silence from the O.T.
• Saul and his offering 1 Sam 13:8-14
• Saul reasoned, “People are leaving…Samuel’s not
coming…I’d better do something” vv. 8, 11-12
• After all, isn’t doing something better than doing
nothing?
• Samuel rebukes the king’s “foolishness” and his
“disobedience” v. 13
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Disregarding God’s silence from the O.T.
• Saul and his offering 1 Sam 13:8-14
• The lesson We cannot allow “the moment” to
justify doing something God has not authorized
• God had already given the authorization re: who
was to offer sacrifices Num 3:1-10
• Did He say anything about a king offering them?
• What did this “silence” mean?
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Disregarding God’s silence from the O.T.
• David and the Temple 2 Sam 7:1-7
• David planned to build God a house v. 2
• How would you judge his intentions, his motive?
• He even had the “approval” or “endorsement”
from Nathan the prophet v. 3
• Modern-day equivalent many act in ways
because their preachers give their approval
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Disregarding God’s silence from the O.T.
• David and the Temple 2 Sam 7:1-7
• God’s response to David’s plans is the theme for
this lesson vv. 4-7
• What does this “silence” teach us?
• Did God have plans for His house? vv. 8-16
cp. Isa 46:8-10 Rom 4:17 Acts 2:29-31
• Practical lessons for us today? cp. Prov 14:12
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Statements Re: God’s Silence From The N.T.
• The oracles of God 1 Pet 4:11
• If any man is going to speak (teach), he needs to
“speak as the oracles of God”
• “Oracles” = utterances, words God has spoken
• This limits us to only say what God has said
• If God hasn’t spoken about it (SILENCE), we
must not speak about it
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Statements Re: God’s Silence From The N.T.
• The superior Son of God Heb 1:5
• He is Divine…He is a “Son,” a “Spokesman,” the
“exact Representation of God’s nature,” and
“better than the angels” vv. 2-4
• No angel was ever told, “Thou art My Son…”
• God was silent about that…an angel could not
assume such a vaunted position
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Statements Re: God’s Silence From The N.T.
• The Priesthood of Jesus Heb 7:11-14
• His Priesthood is perpetual…“after the order of
Melchizedek” 5:1-10; 7:1-28
• For Him to be a Priest now necessitates a change
in the Law also 7:11-13
• Moses (i.e. God) “…spoke nothing” (SILENCE)
re: a priest coming from the tribe of Judah 7:14
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Statements Re: God’s Silence From The N.T.
• Circumcising Gentiles Acts 15:24
• Certain men decided to teach something v. 1
• The apostles (Christ’s official ambassadors)
“…had given no such instruction” v. 24
• Their silence on this matter was prohibitive
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Statements Re: God’s Silence From The N.T.
• A Final Word Of Caution…
• We must be careful not to confuse silence in the
Scripture with the earlier study of General &
Specific Authority discussion of expediencies
• We should not conclude that silence in a specific
matter constitutes a prohibition re: a general
command
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Statements Re: God’s Silence From The N.T.
• A Final Word Of Caution…
• The Scripture is silent about song books…but it is
singing
not silent about ________________
Eph 5:19; Col 3:16
• The Scripture is silent about church buildings…
assembling
but it is not silent about ___________________
Heb 10:25
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Statements Re: God’s Silence From The N.T.
• A Final Word Of Caution…
• The Scripture is silent about gospel meetings…
preaching
but it is not silent about ________________
Mk 16:15; Rom 10:14-15
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 8 Respecting God’s Silence
• Conclusion
• God’s silence is authoritative & prohibitive
• We must never think too much of ourselves or
our ideas above God’s Rom 12:3 1 Cor 4:6
• We must stay within Christ’s doctrine 2 Jn 9
• Whatever we do must be done “in the name of”
(by the authority of) Christ Col 3:17
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• Obligations for which we’ll be judged are
primarily personal Rom 14:11 2 Cor 5:10
• Yet, the Scripture also places a high
premium on our collective responsibilities
• Groups to which we belong (family, civil,
secular) provide important activities, duties
• The Lord’s church is of most importance
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• One cannot be saved by Christ and then
“ignore” or “bypass” His N.T. church
• Upon conversion, He adds us to is Acts 2:47
• He promised to build it Mt 16:18
• He maintains control of it 2 Tim 2:19
• He “manages” each church’s “candlestick”
Rev 2:5
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• Since He controls the church universally,
our focus will on the church locally
• It is through the local church Christians are
organized and employed in the work of the
kingdom of God
• How we feel about the church reflects how
we feel about God
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Scripture presents the N.T. church
(both universally & locally) in different
aspects to emphasize her importance
• Examining these aspects will hopefully
increase our appreciation for the church,
and will also help ensure our faithfulness to
God
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Origin
• Knowing when the church began is important
so that we can properly distinguish her from
all other religious organizations
• Good things “were still yet to come” even
when Christ appeared Heb 9:11
• O.T. system was only a “shadow” Heb 10:1
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Origin
• Prophetically, the church was “announced”
long before she came into existence
• The “mountain of the house of the Lord” would
appear in the “last days” Isa 2:2 Mic 4:1
• These “last days” are the days of the Messiah
Heb 1:1-2 Joel 2:28 Acts 2:17 Dan 2:28
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Origin
• This “mountain of the house of the Lord”
would appear without help from man,
ultimately filling the entire earth
Dan 2:34-35, 44-45 cp. Heb 12:18-24
• “All nations streaming to it” invites more than
just the Jews Isa 2:2 Mic 4:1 Gen 12:3
Gal 3:8
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Origin
• The statements of Jesus coincide with these
ancient prophetic announcements
Lk 24:46-47 Acts 1:4-8
• The prophecy of Daniel provides the historical
perspective of the progression of empires into
which this kingdom would come Dan 2:31-45
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Origin
• The prophecy of Daniel Dan 2:31-45
• A kingdom described as follows –
• It originates from something made “without
hands” (no human origin) v. 33
• It will never be destroyed v. 44
• It will never be left to another people v. 44
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Origin
• The prophecy of Daniel Dan 2:31-45
• A kingdom described as follows –
• It will endure forever v. 44
• It was still not in existence during the days of
the forerunner…John Mt 3:1-2
• He was never in the church Mt 11:11
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Origin
• Even when the Builder (Jesus) was on the
earth, it still was not yet in existence Mk 1:15
• His disciples preached what He did re: the
church Mt 10:7
• Acts 2 is the “hinge” upon which all these
events turn cp. Joel 2
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
• The N.T. Scripture presents the church using
various “metaphors” to emphasize the
different ways her members are to act,
function
• Understanding these “metaphors” will help us
see our duties & appreciate God, His plan
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “called out body”
• Actual meaning of word translated “church”
• Good example in Acts 19:32, 39, 41
• Used in universal sense Mt 16:18
• Used in local sense 1 Cor 1:2
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “called out body”
• A “holy calling” that originated in the mind of
God before creation 2 Tim 1:7-9
• A “calling” that invites us to the “eternal
glory in Christ” 1 Pet 5:10
• A “calling” we need to ensure 2 Pet 1:10
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “called out body”
• This “calling” is not with respect to the
specific individual (John, Mary) as is taught
by Calvinism their idea of “election”
• This “calling” is for the kind of person God
always wanted (“whosoever”) Joel 2:28
Acts 2:21
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “called out body”
• This “calling” seeks to bring us out of
“darkness” and into His “light” 1 Pet 2:9
cp. Jn 3:19-21 1 Jn 1:5-7
• This “calling” is accomplished by the gospel
2 Thess 2:13-14
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as the “household of God”
• Emphasis is on our closeness as a family
• We have a loving Father to Whom the “house”
should be thankful Eph 3:14
• We have the only Father (exclusiveness)
through Whom are all things 1 Cor 8:6
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as the “household of God”
• There is a “Son over this house”…Jesus
Heb 3:6
• This “house” has a Spirit that brings men to
adoption, makes them heirs & joint heirs with
the Son Rom 8:15-17 Gal 4:7
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as the “household of God”
• Some “benefits” of being in this “house”…
• A Father’s love that allows us to be His children
1 Jn 3:1
• The privilege of prayer, making know our requests
and needs to our Father Mt 6:6, 9
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as the “household of God”
• Some “benefits” of being in this “house”…
• An all-knowing Father Who is aware of our every
need Mt 6:8 Lk 11:9-13
• When necessary, a Father who loves us enough
to discipline us so that He might bring about “the
peaceable fruit of righteousness” Heb 12:5-11
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “kingdom”
• Emphasis is on the imperial rule of Jesus
• The “kingdom” preached from the beginning
was the same one prophesied of from long
ago 2 Sam 7:12-13 Acts 2:30-31 Mk 1:15
Jn 18:33-37
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “kingdom”
• This “kingdom” is not of this world…it is not
defined by worldly attributes…it is not
observable as earthly kingdoms are
Jn 18:36 Rom 14:17 Lk 17:20-21
• A “kingdom” one is not far from Mk 12:34
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “kingdom”
• This “kingdom” does not pass through or
grow through borders or boundaries or lands
• This “kingdom” passes through (grows)
through men…one heart at a time Lk 4:5-8
Mt 28:18-20 Mk 16:15-16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “kingdom”
• This “kingdom” has a law…the teachings of
Jesus Christ
• All men are subject to this law 1 Cor 9:21
• All men will be judged by this law Jn 12:48
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “body”
• Emphasis is on the Head, the various parts
that make up the body, and their connected
functions for the body’s well being
• The “body” & the “church” are synonymous
Eph 1:22-23 Col 1:18, 24
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “body”
• There is only one “body” Eph 4:4
• The “body” is subject to the Head in all her
responsibilities Eph 5:24
• Every “joint” in the “body” must supply its
part for the body as a whole Eph 4:16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Nature
The church as a “body”
• The proper attitudes re: body members need
to be present 1 Cor 12:15-19, 21
• Some members may discount their worth,
importance to the body vv. 15-19
• Some members may inflate their worth v. 21
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
• This is where many churches go astray
• They involve themselves in works for which
there is no Biblical authority cp. Mt 7:23
• Succinctly put, the church’s work is 3-fold
• The work & how it is to be done can be
identified from the Scripture
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• The need for salvation is universal, affecting
every man Rom 3:9-10, 23 Gal 3:22
• The gospel is God’s solution to man’s sin
problem…it tells us what Jesus did to save us
from sin Rom 1:16 1 Cor 15:1-4
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• The written word is truth…the church is the
“pillar” for truth Jn 8:31-32 1 Tim 3:14-15
• The church supports the preaching and
teaching of the gospel Acts 13:1-3 14:26-27
2 Cor 11:8-9 Phil 1:3-5 4:14-16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• How the church supports the gospel –
• By supporting a preacher who works locally
1 Cor 9:3-18 cp. Acts 18:1-3
• By supporting a preacher who labors
elsewhere 2 Cor 11:7-9 Phil 4:10-16
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• How the church supports the gospel –
• The pattern for how the 1st century church
supported the gospel is important to see
• The money was sent directly to the preacher
• No intermediary agency was sought, used
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• 1st century churches cooperated in
supporting gospel preaching 2 Cor 11:8
• “Cooperation” is not “coordination”
• It is on this point man-made churches and the
Lord’s church have gone astray
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• Departures from the revealed pattern…
• Mid 1800’s The Missionary Society
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Church A
Preacher In
Foreign Work
Church B Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Church A
Church B MISSIONARY SOCIETY
Preacher In
Foreign Work
Church Z
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• Departures from the revealed pattern…
• Mid 1800’s The Missionary Society
• Faithful brethren opposed this work
• A split occurred…brethren who advocated this
left & eventually formed the Christian Church
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• Departures from the revealed pattern…
• Mid 1800’s The Missionary Society
• Mid 1900’s The Sponsoring Church
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Church A
THE HERALD OF TRUTH
Gospel
Work
Church B
Originated by Highland
church of Christ in
Church Z Abilene, TX in 1952
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
The Herald Of Truth
Radio
Television
Internet
Information courtesy of www.heraldoftruth.org
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
The Herald Of Truth
Our Vision
Allowing every person on earth multiple opportunities to
hear, see & experience the gospel of Jesus Christ, in their
native language – every nation – every moment – every day.
Our Strategy
Reaching out to individuals through media, the internet and
events, doing what the local church can’t. Our goal is to
lead the lost to Christ, disciple and integrate new believers
in the local church.
Information courtesy of www.heraldoftruth.org
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• Departures from the revealed pattern…
• Mid 1800’s The Missionary Society
• Mid 1900’s The Sponsoring Church
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Church A
Gospel Work
(support of
a preacher,
some
Church B teaching
program,
etc.)
Sponsoring
Church
Church Z
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Publication originates
from the Jacksonville
church of Christ,
Jacksonville, AL
2.5 million copies are
distributed to over 800
churches bi-monthly
Churches send
contributions to
purchase mailing lists
for their respective
mailing areas
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
One Nation Under God is an evangelistic project under the
oversight of the elders of the Sycamore Church of Christ in
Cookeville, Tennessee.
By means of direct mail, the gospel is made known to
population groups in various countries.
Original solicitation from churches of Christ to
evangelize the United States $17 million
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EVANGELISM The church’s primary work
• Departures from the revealed pattern…
• Mid 1800’s The Missionary Society
• Mid 1900’s The Sponsoring Church
• The principle from 1 Pet 5:2 is violated by
these arrangements
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EDIFICATION How the church is built up
• “Edify” = to build up; to establish; to instruct
and improve [Webster]
• The N.T. discusses what edification is
1 Cor 14:2-5, 12-19, 26 Eph 4:11-16
Rom 14:19 – 15:2 Heb 3:12-13 10:24-25
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EDIFICATION How the church is built up
• Some churches of Christ determined saints
could be “edified” through secular education
• Colleges offering a broad-based curriculum
as well as Biblical courses were viewed as a
good way to “edify” & educate young people
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Church A
“Edified”
COLLEGE
Church B
“Edified”
Church Z
Thematic Studies In etc.
Lipscomb, Harding Abilene, Bible Basics
Harding University (Searcy, Arkansas)
Harding University is a private Christian
institution of higher education committed to the
tradition of the liberal arts and sciences.
The University serves a diverse, coeducational
student body from across the United States and
around the world, although the primary
constituency for students and financial support is
the fellowship of the churches of Christ.
Source: www.harding.edu
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Church A
PREACHING SCHOOL
Church B
Preacher
Church Z
Sunset School of Preaching Basics
Thematic Studies In Bible
Vision
We are preparing men and women to take the
light of the gospel of Christ to every individual in
our world today!
Over 2,000 men and women have completed our
main core training program, and over 1,300 of
our graduated men now minister in local
churches of Christ in the U.S.
Source: Bible Basics
Thematic Studies In www.sibi.cc
Mission
Sunset International Bible Institute has led the way in
churches of Christ to produce well-equipped teachers,
preachers, and missionaries to share the Gospel across
America and around the world. More than 3,000
Sunset-trained spokesmen have been sent out to
proclaim Jesus Christ throughout the world. Countless
congregations of churches of Christ have been
established and tens of thousands have become
Christians through Sunset's influence.
Source: Bible Basics
Thematic Studies In www.sibi.cc
History
In 1962, missionary Cline Paden established a
preacher training school in Lubbock with the
help of West Texas church leaders.
The following year the elders of the Sunset
Church of Christ in Lubbock accepted oversight
of the school. It was moved into the facilities of
the Sunset church and was renamed West Texas
Bible School. Source: www.sibi.cc
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EDIFICATION How the church is built up
• Some churches (both denominational &
churches of Christ) offer social activities to
“edify” members, attract new members
• “Fellowship Halls” and “Family Life Centers”
now dominate the religious landscape
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EDIFICATION How the church is built up
• Some churches (both denominational &
churches of Christ) offer social activities to
“edify” members, attract new members
• The church has become the “Poor Man’s
Country Club”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Food
Frolic
Fun
Church A
(Denominational
or church of Christ)
1 Cor 11:22, 34
Rom 14:17 “Edified”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EDIFICATION How the church is built up
• That which a person is converted WITH is
what a person is converted TO
• What if we take away the hot dogs, hay rides,
and ball teams? cp. Jn 6:15, 26-27, 66-68
• Where’s the “edified person?”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
EDIFICATION How the church is built up
• That which a person is converted WITH is
what a person is converted TO
• What if we offer regular hot dogs & the church
down the street offers foot-long hot dogs?
• Where’s the “edified person?”
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
BENEVOLENCE Caring for the needy
• “Disposition to do good; an act of kindness; a
generous gift” [Webster]
• The N.T. teaching on who the church can aid
benevolently from its treasury is clear
• Nine passages address this work
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
BENEVOLENCE Caring for the needy
Acts 2:44-45 BELIEVERS
Acts 4:32-35 BELIEVERS
Acts 6:1-6 DISCIPLES
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
BENEVOLENCE Caring for the needy
Acts 11:27-30 BRETHREN
Rom 15:25-31 SAINTS (3 times)
1 Cor 16:1-3 SAINTS
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
BENEVOLENCE Caring for the needy
2 Cor 8:4 SAINTS
2 Cor 9:1, 12-13 SAINTS (2 times)
1 Tim 5:16 BELIEVING WIDOWS
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
BENEVOLENCE Caring for the needy
• This proved to be another battleground of
division among brethren
• Some brethren felt compelled to include in the
church’s work the care for the needy…
specifically, orphans
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
ORPHANAGE
Local church in
Columbia, TN
Tennessee Orphan
Orphan Home – 1909
Under elders’ oversight
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Church A ORPHANAGE
Church B
Tennessee Orphan
Home – 1910
Church Z Under Board of Directors
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Work
BENEVOLENCE Caring for the needy
• Our liberally-minded brethren seek to use
Gal 6:10 & Jas 1:27 as their “proof texts” to
include these institutions in their budgets
• The context of each passage reveals such a
use is not Biblical…therefore, not authorized
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Organization
• The church of the New Testament is organized,
both universally as well as locally
• Denominational churches of men as well as
liberally-minded local churches of Christ have
departed from the pattern in this area as well
• History bears all this out
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Roman Catholicism
Parish Church
“Territorial jurisdiction
Parish Church
of a bishop.”
[Webster]
Parish Church
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Roman Catholicism
Diocese A
Diocese B
“Diocese of an Diocese C
archbishop.”
[Webster] Diocese D
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Roman Catholicism
Arch Diocese A
Arch Diocese B
“Papal headquarters Arch Diocese C
in Rome.”
[Webster] Arch Diocese D
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Roman Catholicism
Parish Priest
Parish Priest
“Territorial jurisdiction
of a bishop.”
Parish Priest
[Webster] Parish Priest
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Roman Catholicism
Bishop Bishop
“Diocese of an
archbishop.” Bishop
[Webster] Bishop Bishop
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Roman Catholicism
Arch Bishop Arch Bishop
Cardinal
Arch Bishop Bible Bishop
Thematic Studies In Arch Basics
Roman Catholicism
Cardinal Cardinal
POPE
(Universal Bishop) Cardinal
College of Cardinals
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Protestantism
Denominational
Pastor or Reverend ChurchBasics
Thematic Studies In Bible
Protestantism
Denominational Board
Denominational
Church
Denominational
Church Denominational
Earthly Headquarters Church
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Organization
• The previous examples all demonstrate
DEPENDENT church organization
• How those churches are arranged and how
they operate is dependent upon something
else…namely, centralized government
• The New Testament knows nothing about this
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Organization
• The universal N. T. church of Christ has no
earthly headquarters
• Its Head, Jesus Christ, is in heaven
Heb 9:24 Acts 2:32-35 Eph 1:20-23
• Therefore, “headquarters” are in heaven
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Organization
• Local N. T. churches of Christ do not answer
to any earthly headquarters
• Nor are they arranged or grouped together
• Each church is autonomous (independent) of
other churches, and are self-governing
Acts 14:23 Phil 1:1 Titus 1:5
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics
Lesson 9 The Church Of The Lord
• The Church Of The Lord – Its Organization
• Local N. T. churches of Christ have qualified
shepherds 1 Tim 3:1-7, 8-10 Titus 1:6-9
• Their oversight is limited to the work
“…among them” 1 Pet 5:2
• As “under-shepherds,” they are accountable
to the “Chief Shepherd” – Jesus 1 Pet 5:4
Thematic Studies In Bible Basics