Obeying The Commands of God

Exodus 25 - God gave instructions on how to build the Ark and how to build his temple. It was designed for God to walk with his people. God humbled himself to fit in a box and to be cared by man. God gave specific instructions on how to carry the Ark. The poles where to remain in the Ark at all times and where not to be removed. No one was allowed to touch the Ark itself or they would die.

1 Samuel 4 - the Philistines capture the Ark. In the same way Satan is always trying to take God from us. The Philistines tried to use the Ark or to use God and it did not work. God brought curses down on the Philistines.

1 Samuel 6- the Ark is returned to Israelites.

1 Samuel 7

2 Samuel 6

The Israelite were excited about bringing the Ark to Israel. Uzzah died because he did not obey or honor Gods commands concerning the Ark. Where did the idea of putting the Ark on a cart come from? This idea came from the Philistines. It was easier to have the Ark on a cart and pulled by oxen rather than being carried by 4 men as God had commanded.

How many times do we try to dilute the word of God and obey only partial commandments because we think it's too hard?

God calls us to worship him and honor him in the way he wants. Satan wants us to think that it is okay to dilute the word of God and conform to the world.

Stop conforming to the world! The world tells us it's okay to be decetful, to stretch the truth. To listen to questionable music or watch movies filled with sexual imorality. As christians God calls us to become the likeniess of  Christ!

1 Samuel 6:9 - when we conform to the world then we say what David says here. How can I be righteous. Gods commandments are too tough. I can't have a pure dating relationship without committing sexual imorality. How can I be honest when it may hurt me financially...etc

Satan wants us in this position, he wants us to conform to the world and not decide to do things Gods way. Gods way through his commands are the way to true blessings!

1 Samuel 6:10-11

The Ark was left with Obed-edom and he was blessed! Eventually David resided to conform to God instead of the world. Vs 12-14 David decided to carry the Ark the way god commanded it regardless of how much it cost or how much of a burden it may have been..... As a result David became one of the greatest kings ever known!

John 14:15; 21; 23

What can we give God? Does he need us? God wants our hearts. He wants us to devote our lives to him. To honor his teachings by living a life emerged in his words and his commands! We express our love to God through obedience.

John 14:21

Every time we obey we express love to God! Ways that we can honor God and show him love:

1 Corinthians 6:
Philippians 4:8
Proverbs 3:9
Ephesians 5:25
Ephesians 4:29
Deuteronomy 6:1-25

Money and Marriage series 1

Money and Marriage

Marriage should be honored by all... keep your lives free from the love of money...Hebrews 13:4-5

In one passage the writer of Hebrews gives instructions about two key subjects for disciples: money and marriage (Hebrews 13:4-5). He realized that these were two areas that must be brought under the lord ship of Jesus. This week we will focus on those two areas. Money concerns us all. God's plan for marriage need to be understood whether or not we are currently married.

1. Money is not an evil. It is a necessity and the scriptures teach that it should be honestly earned. Read Ephesians 4:28, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15 and 1 Timothy 5:7-8

2. what attitudes did you have toward money before becoming a Christian? What changes have you had to make?

3. What is the impact of the irresponsible person who does not do his or her best to provide for financial needs?

4. Read Hebrews 13:1-5. We all must deal with money, but what attitude must we be careful not to have? Why is the love of money at cross purposes with following Jesus?

5. Read 1 Timothy 6:17-19. We are "rich" when we have the ability to meet our basic needs and then have money left over that can either be used to give us luxuries or help others. Most of us are in this category. From v. 18 write down three or four things we should do with our "discretionary money."

Connecting To The Church; Free Bible Study

What does it mean to be connected as a church? Every goal of every church should be to help it's members become the likeness of Jesus Christ.

As a church the members have a choice to either be connected or dis connected. The challenge of every disciple of Christ is to be connected to Gods spiritual body. God calls us to be connected in relationships with one another as a family of God.

Acts 2:42

In the early church you were expected to be devoted to several things. It was not negotiable! You were devoted to the teachings of the gospel. Devoted to the fellowship! Devoted to the the breaking of bread ( communion ). Devoted to prayer! This was not an option. Being apart of the first century church meant you made a decision to be devoted to these things!

Acts chapter 2 is the example of Gods church that he has set for us. Many churches practice devotion to teaching, prayer....however, many neglect communion, fellowship and developing deep spiritual relationships.

Using Jesus as an example. Jesus had several circles of close relationships. In his inner circle were James, John and Peter. Next were the 12 disciples and then in his outer circle were his followers. He built relationships and ministered to each of them in different ways!

We have to devote our selves to fellowship and building strong spiritual relationships. God has designed it this way. We are to carry each others burdens. We are designed to need each other!

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Galatians 6:2
Hebrews 3:13

The way to not allow your heart to be harden by sins deceit is to stay connected in Gods church by encouraging one another!

James 5:16

Romans 5:5

Some may think that having these types of relationships and being connected to the fellowship of Gods church in this way is not possible. You may think that this is not your personality or your nature. This is only possible with God and having his spirit inside of us! The only way to get connected into a deep spiritual relationship is through God and with the Holy Spirit. 

Kip McKean Biogrophy

I sent the comments below in response to an article I found on Kipmckean.com titled "The Biogoraphy of Kip McKean." Some revisions have been made to my original post.

Kip, I have a lot of respect for you and what GOD has allowed you to accomplish for Him. I've met you several times and have always felt your sincerity, love and passion for God.

I have to admit that your article saddens me and my heart is troubled as a result of it. There is no doubt in my mind, that you have been hurt and wronged in the events that took place that you describe above, however, I cannot ignore the undertones in your article. Based off what I have read above it seems that there is a lot of bitterness towards the people that you feel have wronged you and although I understand your desire to want to "set the story straight" I don't see how this benefits anyone? It comes across more as gossip rather and a "calling out" of those that have hurt you rather than a humble response.

I have been a disciple for 21 years and I have never heard any derogatory remarks about you from any leadership of the ICOC and there has always been a call to evangelism and God's mission for us to seek and save the lost. Additional, I see no difference in my convictions, the convictions of my church which is to deny my self daily and take up my cross and to spread God's Word than I do in your convictions expressed in your biography. The ICOC or at least the church that I attend has never stopped calling each member to be sold out for God and a true disciple of Jesus.

After reading your article, one question I am left with, though is to what extent do you accept responsibility for the break up and events described in your story? You mention your humility several times but never give any specifics on what fault you have played in all of this. I know we both agree that no one is faultless except our Lord Jesus Christ. It concerns me that there is no mention of your role in the way our movement split, the allegations in the Henry Kriet letter which identified some serious problems with abuse of power and any other issues that were address in your article. It seems that the reader is only left with seeing that you were right and all the leaders of the ICOC were wrong. Normally when a Biography is written is done in an unbiased way showing the good, bad and the ugly. It troubles me that this was not the response you chose to give.

In closing I hope God blesses you and the ICOC with much success in evangelizing the word for Jesus. I also am glad to see that your first principals study series for non-disciples has not changed and we are unified in God's word with regards to salvation and our call to evangelism. I will keep you in my heart and prayers and I hope that through GOD we can see to fruition a world saved for Jesus!

To God Be the Glory!
YBIC,

Godly Sorrow vs. Worldy Sorrow; Free Bible Study

Godly Sorrow vs. Worldly Sorrow

2 Corinthians 7:10

10Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

What does sorrow look like? Its not just the words I'm sorry. It's far deeper than than. Sorrow is an emotional response one filled with passion and remorse.

Why do you think it says Godly sorrow has no regrets?

Why do you think it says Worldly sorrow leads to death?

10Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. 11See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.

As we discuss the differences between worldly sorrow and Godly sorrow, lets look at two story's in the bible that can help us see examples of each. The stories of Peter's denial of Jesus and Judas betrayal of Jesus are similar in theme with respect to two people who end up doing things they regret, yet each of them has a different reaction when it comes to their sorrow and repentance.

JUDAS:

Matthew 26:14-16; 47-49; 27:1-5

14Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests 15and asked, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" So they counted out for him thirty silver coins. 16From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.

47While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. 48Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: "The one I kiss is the man; arrest him." 49Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, "Greetings, Rabbi!" and kissed him.

1Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people came to the decision to put Jesus to death. 2They bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate, the governor.

 3When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders. 4"I have sinned," he said, "for I have betrayed innocent blood."
      "What is that to us?" they replied. "That's your responsibility."

 5So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.

Did Judas have Godly sorrow or worldly sorrow? Why? Judas decided to give the money back which is a sign of repentance. Judas had remorse for what he had done. Judas decided to kill him as his punishment and to ensure justice....right? Who was Judas thinking about in his sorrow? Judas was thinking about him self. He returned the money because he felt guilty. He was filled with remorse and felt sorry for himself. He committed suicide because HE could not deal with the guilt and wanted an easy way out. These are all symptoms of worldly sorrow.

PETER:

Matthew 26:69-75; John 21:15-17; Acts 2:14

69Now Peter was sitting out in the courtyard, and a servant girl came to him. "You also were with Jesus of Galilee," she said.

 70But he denied it before them all. "I don't know what you're talking about," he said.

 71Then he went out to the gateway, where another girl saw him and said to the people there, "This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth."

 72He denied it again, with an oath: "I don't know the man!"

 73After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, "Surely you are one of them, for your accent gives you away."

 74Then he began to call down curses on himself and he swore to them, "I don't know the man!"

   Immediately a rooster crowed. 75Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: "Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times." And he went outside and wept bitterly.

15When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"
      "Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you."
      Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."

 16Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"
      He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."
      Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."

 17 The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?"
      Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."

    Jesus said, "Feed my sheep.

14Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say.

Peter just like Judas betrayed Jesus. What was different about Peter's response? What type of sorrow did Peter have? Peter allowed his sorrow to convict his heart. He was not thinking about himself but about the way he had hurt Jesus. Godly sorrow brings action. Peter took what Jesus said, allowed it to cut his heart and made a decision to never deny Jesus again. Peter had Godly sorrow. In Acts 2 it was Peter who stood up and explained to the people at Pentecost who Jesus was and how they have killed the Son of Man! There was no denial there! Most historians believe that Peter ended up being crucified for Jesus's sake and he was crucified up side down. Peter's sin, brokenness and repentance led him to a changed life that was gave up everything for Jesus.

If we have Godly sorrow it too will change our life!

Pick Up Your Mat and Walk; Free Bible Study

Mark 2:1-12

It says many people came to Jesus. These people came to Jesus for many reasons. Some where skeptics and critics like the Pharisees, others wanted to see miracles and entertainment and then there was the Paralytic who just wanted Jesus to heal his physical condition.

We come to Jesus for many reasons too. Sometimes our reasons are righteous and noble and yet other times we have ulterior motives. Jesus accepted all of them and it says that he "preached the word".

Vs. 5 – Jesus noticed their faith!

What did the Paralytic do that was so faithful?

The faith of the Paralytic and his friends were relentless in their pursuit for healing. They would stop at nothing to get to Jesus. No crowds, no obstacle or any other thing would keep them from trying to reach Jesus.

Notice it was the Paralytics friends that were with him and not his family! Sometimes spiritually we need these type of friends in our lives to have faith for us and help us get closer to God. Friends like these are only found in the church.

Which is more important? Spiritual Health or our physical health?

Jesus healed this man spiritually and said "your sins are forgiven". The paralytic did not come to Jesus for forgiveness of sins, he came to him to have Jesus heal his physical disability and yet Jesus new what this man needed the most.

Sometimes we can loose sight of what is really important in life and that is having a relationship with God. Satan wants to distract us with worldly things and he wants us to put more value in our physical condition than our spiritual condition.

Vs. 6 – Why were the Pharisees so upset? They were the authority of the day and repentance and forgiveness of sins came in the form of sacrifices that were brought to the temple and the religious leaders. There was a lot of penance that came with forgiveness and Jesus challenged this by forgiving sins immediately. Jesus forgives freely and we do not have to earn his forgiveness!

Vs. 11 – Jesus commanded the paralytic to "get up and take your mat and go home".

What would have happened if the paralytic decided not to obey Jesus and refused to get up. He had every excuse why to do it. He could have been faithless that Jesus could save him. There were a lot of people around and if he could not get up the would ridicule him....etc! When Jesus commands us to do something we need to obey. Faith without deeds is dead the bible says in Hebrews. The paralytic had to believe with faith and then act with his own will to be healed.

What spiritual disability do you have that needs to be healed? What would Jesus heal you from and say, "get up take your mat and walk"!

Just like the paralytic we have to make a decision to pick up our mat and walk!

Remember the Lord

As an early Christian I thought life would become easier as a disciple. Things in my life were changing I had repented from several character sins and I was a new being in god!

Do you remember how you felt as an early Christian? What was your outlook on life.

Some times we loose the zeal and fervor for God we had at baptism. The worries of this world, the temptations and our sinful nature creep back in and we in essence forget our first love which is our relationship with god.

All of us go through situation that challenge our faith.


The book of kings was written while the Israelite were in captivity to Babylon. The Israelite were subject to the the Babylonian culture. Everyday the Israelite were subject to the Babylonians and to there idol worship and paganism.

Babylonians worship several gods. Baal and Mot. Baal was the storm god and Mot was the god of death. They believed that when it rained it was from Baal and when there was a drought Baal was away fighting Mot.

1 kings 17:1-24

Elijah takes a stand against Baal and the Babylonia authority. Baal was the god of rain and of fertility. Elijah was not just challenging their idolatry but the existence of their gods as a whole.

Vs 22 this is the first time someone was rising from the dead in the bible and  God challenges there god Mot in this. He shows that he is the God that gives life and controls death not Mot

Kings 18:21-46

For the years that lead up to this confrontation between the almighty God and the idolatry of Babylon, the Israelite felt abandoned by God! God had never left. God was always there.

When we hit these points in our lives where we feel defeated and as though God is not with us, we have to remember our lord and the power he has too overcome any situation.

This Earth Is Not My Home

Heaven is our final destination! This earth is not our home and therefore we should not treat it as such.

When you focus on heaven you want to do more here on earth! Heaven and the thought being in paradise with our lord should motivate us to honor him and do all we can here on earth!


John 12:23

Jesus understood and taught this concept. If you want to save your life in the next world, you have to loose your life ( or sacrifice your worldly desires) in this world.

When your thoughts go to heaven then you will have impact here on earth. This world is not our home and we need to remember where our true home is.

As Christians we don't think of heaven as much as we should. We think about our spiritual trials on this earth and our lives as Christians in this world. We need to focus on heaven!


Genesis 25-28

Jacob was give a name that meant deceiver. At his birth they basically named him liar.

Jacob lives up to his name and lies to his brother and father. He continued to lie and this mam that was named deceiver becomes a liar.

Jacob was on the run and trying to escape from the consequences of his lying actions when he finds and comes in contact with God.

God showed Jacob a glimpse of heaven and it changed his life! Jacobs heart changed from that point on in his life.


Genesis 29:13-29

Jacob was fleeing and Laban excepted him because of what Jacob shared with him about his trip. Maybe because of the experience Jacob had with God and the way Jacob shared that with Laban.

In his past Jacob deceived for what? Mostly for financial gain and power (I.e. Birth right). It safe to assume that Jacob struggles with greed and cheating. He was willing to steal from his brother and deceive his farther for money. Yet because of Gods intervention and Jacob seeing a glimpse of heaven, Jacob was asked to work for seven years for Rachel and he did it through honesty and hard work.

Ironically Jacob was lied to by laban and told to work another seven years for Rachel. Jacob could have demanded that labin honor their previous agreement but he didn't. Jacob choose to honor laban's request and work another seven years. Jacob was not the same man that he was before he saw a glimpse of heaven!

When we see what the true wealth is in heaven. We no longer care about worldly things. Satan wants us to focus on the here and now and not focus on the things to come?

Where is your focus at? Heaven or earth?

What does it mean to focus on heaven?

We need to recognize our urges for heavenly longings. Our desire for more is a desire from God, yet far to often we try to satisfy that desire with wordly things. The longings that we have for more and a restless contented spirit should be directed towards Heaven and our reward that is waiting for us. If we fill those longings with worldly objects we miss the opportunity to long for heaven.

As Christians we tell our selves to stop wanting. We want to reject our worldly desires and we concede to just give up on our desires. This is the time to not stop our desires of wanting but to realign our desires with heavenly things.

God planted desires in us that cannot be filled with earthly things. If we fill our lives with worldly things in the hopes of reaching happiness, we will become completely frustrated! We were not made for this earth or earthly things. We were created for heaven.

Heaven is were our focus needs to be. We need to think about what heaven is really like. The bible gives us glimpses of what it will be like but part of the intrigue that god has created is that we don't know what it will be like for sure. What we do know is heaven will give us rest for our souls and be completely the opposite of the world.


Revelations 4:1-11

Heaven is so far beyond our imagination and will be more than we could ever expect!

The biggest thing our farther says about heaven is that we will be with god!

Tamming The Tongue

 

How often I fail in this area. In my home with my family, at work with my coworkers and in public with strangers.

 

We can all too often allow ourselves to react to things in a worldly way or with anger, disgust, frustration and contempt. We can get caught up in the moment and say things or do things that could very possibly give people the wrong idea of what a disciple is. Remember that we are different, and people see that and want to know why. They watch us and some even ask questions.  How can we be a example to others when we cant control something as simple as what we say? 

The bible says that no man can tame the tongue.  Though we can guard our harts from impurity we can not tame the tongue.

 

 

 

^{James 3:1} Not many of you should presume to be teachers,   my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged ^f  more strictly.    

^{James 3:2} We all stumble   in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says,  he is a perfect man,   able to keep his whole body in check.   

^{James 3:3} When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal.    

^{James 3:4} Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 

^{James 3:5} Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts.   Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 

^{James 3:6} The tongue also is a fire,  a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person,  sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.   

^{James 3:7} All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, 

^{James 3:8} but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.  

^{James 3:9} With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness.    

^{James 3:10} Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 

^{James 3:11} Can both fresh water and salt  water flow from the same spring? 

^{James 3:12} My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs?  Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

 

Wars have been started with words, Peoples harts broken by words, childrens spirits broken by words, and lives destroyed by words.

 

Dose this mean that all is lost? The bible says that we all stumble in many ways. What do we do when we stumble?

Paul pleaded with God 3 times asking him to remove the thorn from his side. But what did god tell him?

 

 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.

 

We repent! Humbly Repent!

 

Haven't wars been stopped with words, peoples harts mended with words, children's spirits renewed with words and lives enriched those words?  Learning to tame the tongue can be a daily battle but one that every christian should consider one of his greatest endeavors.

 

 

 

 

 

Jesus The Head

Colossians 1:15-20;    Psalms 89:7

Book of Colossians was written around 60AD and while Paul was in prison. The church in Colossians had many problems. Agnostics and other groups that were wavering in their faith.

Paul was challenging the church in Colossians to not forget what they were connected to Christ the head and we the body.

We too need to recognize who we are through Christ and the magnitude of what we are apart of being Gods body.

John 8:31-32

What is the truth? The whole gospel is the truth. The truth is Jesus Christ who is the head!

The body cannot survive with out the head. Many churches teach of reaching God through another deity (I.e...angels, Mary the mother of Jesus, the Pope, a preacher...etc). The only way to know God is through Jesus and Jesus alone! Hebrews 12:2

John 5:39

You can even study the scriptures and miss the connection to Jesus! Going to church does not save you. Being a good person does not save you. We are saved by God and through Jesus. Colossians 2:11-14

Colossians 3:5-13

In the world we come from dysfunctional families and messed up situations. As Gods body we have a functional families and father who is the head of the house. The church is not perfect but we are called to live different lives, free from
the sin that entangles and destroys our lives . This is Gods call to us to live in his house!

Colossians 3:14-17

Being connected to Jesus the head this is the life we should live. The life Gd has planned for us. A functional family in his church where we help one another through struggles and burdens to honor and glorify god with our lives.

First Principles: Seeking God Study

Purpose

 

To teach a person how to pursue a relationship with God by developing a seeker's heart and by coming to know Jesus as revealed in God's Word, the Bible.

 

• Acts 17:16-28. Ever ask yourself: "What on earth am I here for?" You aren't alone! Why did God create you and bring you to this very point and time in your life? So that you would seek him and find him in order to have a personal relationship with him. Who takes the initiative in seeking this relationship? Because God loves us and desires a relationship with us, he has been actively determining times and places long before we ever thought about seeking him (Psalm 14:2-3). Why do so few seem to be seeking today? God is unknown and the image many have of him is distorted. To seek God, we must be willing to change our ideas about who God is to match what has been revealed to us in the Bible. There is nothing more important or exciting in life than to seek and to find our Creator God.
• Jeremiah 29:11-14. We will find God if we seek Him with all our heart. Have you ever done something with all your heart? What will it mean for you to seek God with all your heart?
• Matthew 7:7-11. What does God promise those who diligently seek? Prayer is the means by which we can make our requests known to God. Do you pray? As you seek to know God better, take him at his word that he truly listens and responds to our prayers as a loving Father.
• Acts 8:26-40. What do we know about this seeker? He is important and therefore certainly busy, but still finds time for God. He reads the Scriptures himself and asks questions about what he is reading. He is humble and sincere enough in his search to ask for help. What he learns he acts on right away, as seen with his baptism. How did he feel after coming to know God better? The burning questions he had about God were answered in an afternoon.
• Acts 17:10-12. What was it about these Berean seekers that made Luke refer to them as having "noble character"? What does "great eagerness" imply? Why was it important for them to "examine the Scriptures every day" for themselves? What was the result of this eager yet diligent attitude? As with prayer, reading the Bible is vitally important to knowing God.
• John 1:18. Jesus has made God known. Where do we begin our search for God? We begin by getting to know Jesus. To the degree that we know Jesus, we will know God.
• John 20:30-31. The Word of God produces faith in Jesus. What will we find if we seek God by coming to know Jesus through God's Word? Finding God begins with coming to faith in Jesus which promises true life now and eternal life later! As we take a closer look at Jesus, are you willing to make a heartfelt effort to draw closer to God by praying and reading the Bible?

Additional Helpful Scriptures:

• Deuteronomy 4:28-31
• 2 Chronicles 15:1-4 
• Matthew 6:25-33
• Matthew 7:13-14 
• Matthew 13:44-46
• Hebrews 11:6

Bible Study: Fruits of the Spirit

Fruit of the Spirit

Embracing Christ like characteristics

Introduction:

We will be meeting together at least 2 weeks per month through the summer. We want to grow in embracing Christ like character in our lives. So for our discussion our topic will be the Fruit of the Spirit. The Godly attitudes that characterizes the lives of those who belong to God. Their faith in Christ posses the Spirit of God. The Spirit is evident by its fruit.

Read Gal: 5:16-26

Q. How important is this to God?

A. Read John 15:1-4,8

Q. In going thru the produce section of the grocery store, what is the typical manner in which one shops for fruit?

A. Pick up and squeeze it for softness, polish apples, taste a grape for sweetness, inspect strawberries etc.

Q. How is this common today for Christians, religious people, believers, when it comes to treating the Fruit of the spirit?

A. They concentrate on the fruit that interests them or come easy to them, without bothering with or making an effort to embrace others aspect of the Fruit of the Spirit.

Q. What are some examples of that?

A. Loving person is not self-controlled.

What we will be learning through these series is that living by the spirit is not freedom to choosing what fruit we do or do not want to exhibit. All the fruit of the spirit is to be desired and cultivated in our lives as we strive to be Christ like.

The Spirit filled life is produced by the Spirit activity and human response to God's word.

Obedience to God's command to love, patience, kindness, self-control etc. but also requires the dependency on Gods power through Holy Spirit

1. How many fruits of the spirit are there?

Vs. 22- Says "The Fruit of the Spirit" Not "the Fruits of the Spirit". This is significant because if we take fruits instead of fruit we naturally feel the freedom to be picky about the fruit we like or feel most comfortable with and neglect the others.

What fruit in the grocery store don't you like?

-for that reason you would not choose that fruit. Describe the fruit you like? You have described different aspects of the fruit which is a composite description. That is the same in our lives when it comes to the Fruit of the Spirit.

Our all around behavior will be the direct result if our relationship with God and the individually spirit being lived out through us. We represent the Fruit of the Spirit.

Gal:16-18

2. What conflicts is described in this verse (vs. 16-18)

In what ways have you experienced this struggle in your own life?

3. What are the results of living by the spirit? Vs. 16,18,22,23

4. How might living by the spirit affect actions and attitudes that Paul listed in vs. 19-21?

5. In Crucifying the sinful nature and living by the Spirit though different, how are they relative to each other?

A- As Christians we still have the capacity to SIN, but we have been set free from SINS power over us and no longer have to give in to it. We must daily commit our live to God's control. Crucify our sin and continually draw on God's power to overcome them. We also need to have people in our lives to pray and help us.

6. What do you think is involved in keeping "In the step with the spirit" Greek word meaning "walk in the spirit" (Vs.25)? How do we do this? Indicates continuous action, a habitual lifestyle, walking implies progress as a believer and submit to the spirit control.

Let us make every effort this week to crucify the sinful nature by submitting daily to the spirits power.

Bible Study: Love

Love

Gal 5:16-26

Vs 22 Recap introduction to Fruit of the spirit. The Goal is to grow in having a Christ like character. Last time we discussed the Fruit of the spirit being one Fruit having 9 composite descriptions. Love patient, etc…., which should be exhibited in the life of a Christian. Today we will be discussing the topic of LOVE.

Love is many things to many people.

When you hear the word LOVE what comes to mind?

There is much confusion when it comes to love. It has caused some to die and others to kill. Love is very important and given high propriety in the Bible. There are several Greek words for love. Eros: from which we get erotic has to do with sexual, physical aspects of love. Phileo: is more of a friendship type of love, a word from which we get Philadelphia. Here the Greek word is "Agape". It's not emotional affection, physical attraction or fuzzy feelings. It's more respect, devotion, affection that leads to willingness, self sacrificial service. It commits itself regardless of the condition of reaction of the love one. (this is the very nature of God)

John 15:9-17

(vs. 9,13-17 Agape)

What is involved in remaining in Jesus' Love?

(Obedience)

In this passage what is love as Jesus defines it?

How does Jesus model his love for us?

Read 1 Cor. 15:4-7 Inserting God's name before every attribute or virtue.

An example: God is patient, God is kind, God does not boast…

This is how God loves us and the standard in which we as Christians need to strive for.

Now ask the group to take a moment and read it again to themselves, this time having them insert their own name.

Ask, "Is this standard you view your own love towards others? Is this the standard your love ones would view you?

What area of love do you feel you can grow in?

How does the religious world view the importance love?

How does God view the importance of love?

Read 1 Cor. 13: 1-3, 13

Mark 12: 28-34

How is love expanded in this passage?

What does it mean to love your neighbor as yourself? Who is your neighbor? (People whether friend of foe)

The prevailing opinion among Pharisees was that one's neighbors were the righteous alone. Therefore according to them the wicked and sinners such as tax collectors, prostitutes, Gentiles, Samaritans were the enemies of God. There is a righteous hatred towards sin and the basis of it, but not a personal hatred toward the individual. Jesus came and demolished this excuse for hating one's enemies.

What insight did the teacher of the law have, that made Jesus affirm him as he did? (vs. 34).

The command to love took precedence over Old Testament ceremonial practices. (Today's example: showing up to church and tithing.)

Why did Jesus respond "You are not far from the Kingdom of God?

The teacher of the law understood the requirements of love but he needed to act in accordance with love and obedience to the one who alone would grant him entrance to the Kingdom.

Consider the relationship between love for God and love for one's neighbor this week.

They are to be bound with a common thread of love and obedience in the spirit filled life. It is the greatest and most important command of God.

Let the Fruit of the Love be exhibited in our life this week.

 

Bible Study: Patience/ Kindness

Patience/Kindness

Gal 5:16-26

Vs 22 Recap introduction to Fruit of the spirit. The Goal is to grow in having a Christ like character. Last time we discussed Peace being one of the fruit of the spirit, which should be exhibited in the life of a Christian. Hopefully we have been applying these fruits in the way in which enables us to develop a character more like Christ. Today we will be discussing the topics of Patience and Kindness

Patience

I Timothy 1:12-16

In the passage the Greek word for patience is makrothymia, which means longsuffering.

Christ is all longsuffering for us, and asks us to do the same to others.

When do you get most impatient: with people or circumstances? Discuss

Name some ways that you have express or seen other express impatience and anger inappropriately?

How does God express his patience to you?

What areas of our life can we imitate Christ like patience?

Col. 3:12-14

Paul describes the believers as "God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved," do you see yourself like this? Why or why not?

Kindness

Eph 2:4-7

What are some reasons it is difficult to extend kindness? Possible answers: sign of weakness, time consuming, too demanding etc.

Kindness is a spiritual characteristic that we need to embrace.

What are some results of kindness you have seen in your life or someone else's life recently?

How does God show kindness to you?

Closing suggestion: Break up in pairs and close with a prayer thanking God for his unlimited patience and loving kindness, asking God to help us show the same to others.

 

First Principles: Knowing Jesus

Purpose

 

To highlight the life, character and teachings of Jesus so that an individual can come to faith in him and aspire to know God through him. 

 

• John 1:1, 14 Jesus is God in the flesh. He is the unique Son of God: fully God and fully man! God came to earth as a man in order that we could come to know him. If you were an all-powerful and invisible God, how would you have tried to communicate your love to your creation? Illustration: Imagine trying to talk to an ant.
• Colossians 2:9 All the fullness of God lives in Jesus Christ. This means that every aspect of God's character can be found in Jesus. Reading through any of the Gospels describing Jesus life and words will give you insight into God's character and will for your life. Here are several aspects from a day in the life of Jesus in the Gospel of Mark:
• Mark 1:21-22 Jesus was an amazing teacher whose words were spoken with authority.
• Mark 1:23-28 Jesus cast out demons, showing that the power of God was present in him.
• Mark 1:29-31 Jesus met people's felt needs and healed the sick.
• Mark 1:32-34 Jesus focused his attention on others and selflessly gave of himself.
• Mark 1:35 Jesus was dependent upon God in prayer for his strength and direction.
• Mark 1:36-39 Jesus was consumed with his mission to preach the good news.
• Mark 1:40-42 Jesus was filled with compassion for all people.
• Mark 10:32-34, 45 Jesus came to serve, and gave his perfect life as a ransom for sinners. As predicted, he was rejected by his people and crucified—but he rose from the dead three days later.

          Choose a Gospel and read more about Jesus for yourself.

• 1 John 2:3-6 Knowing Jesus is not just an intellectual exercise. The goal of the Christian is to obey his commands and become more and more like him: to think like Jesus, to act like Jesus, to live like Jesus.
• John 14:6 Jesus claimed to be the way, not a way. He claimed to be the truth and not one truth among many. He said he was the life, not just a better life. How important is it that we put our faith, our trust, our obedience in Jesus? No one will make it to the Father unless they come to him through Jesus! (Acts 4:12) 

Additional Helpful Scriptures: 

• Hebrew 1:1-3
• Hebrew 2:14-18
• Hebrew 4:14-16
• If needed, read through an entire Gospel with your friend.

Bible Study: Goodness/ Faithfulness

Goodness/Faithfulness

Gal 5:16-26

Vs 22 Recap introduction to Fruit of the spirit. The Goal is to grow in having a Christ like character. The last time we discussed Patience & Kindness being one of the fruit of the spirit, which should be exhibited in the life of a Christian. Hopefully we have been applying these fruits in the way in which enables us to develop a character more like Christ. Today we will be discussing the topics of Goodness & Faithfulness

Goodness

We tend to view goodness from a humanistic point. Usually in relation to others

and it make us feel better about ourselves.

Do you think you're a good person? Why?

Psalm 100.

How the Psalmist affirm God's goodness? (v5)

Note the response of the Psalmist. How do we respond to God's goodness?

Rom. 7:18-20

Can you relate to Paul's struggle? Why or why not?

This is considered human nature. Does this allow us to have an excuse?

Rom 7:24-25 AS a Christian we have the spirit of God. We have the power to choose.

Rom 12:9'21

What different aspects of goodness and good are implied in Paul's two statements?

Faithfulness

Faithfulness requires Faith.

Ie. I will be faithful in taking this pain relief 2x a day for 10 days. Why? I have faith that I will

be feeling better in time.

Due to life's broken promises and numerous disappointments rather than faithfulness we find

faithlessness which results in lack of commitment.

What areas have you seen lack of commitment to God and others if any?

As a Christian our greatest hope is in God. There is nothing more solid and true.

Lamentations 3:19-24

Why did the writer have hope in his desperate circumstances?

How is God faithfulness described?

Name one way you've seen God faithfulness in your life recently.

In what ways can you exhibit faithfulness towards God and to others?

Let us strive to live out the spirit of Goodness and Faithfulness in our lives so that God may be exalted in us.

 

Bible Study: Gentleness/ Self Control

Gentleness/Self-control

Gal 5:16-26

Vs 22 Recap introduction to Fruit of the spirit. The Goal is to grow in having a Christ like character. The last time we discussed Goodness & Faithfulness being one of the fruit of the spirit, which should be exhibited in the life of a Christian. Hopefully we have been applying these fruits in the way in which enables us to develop a character more like Christ. Today we will be discussing the topics of Gentleness & Self-control

Gentleness

What do you think of when someone says the word gentle?

In this passage the word gentleness is meekness translated from the Gk word "praotes" which means humble in spirit, a surrendered and submissive heart.

How does our society view meekness? Meekness has become synonymous with weakness.

Meekness is also called gentleness which is an aspect of a Christian spirited filled life.

Matth. 26:39,42

How does Jesus exhibit strength in meekness?

Matth. 11:28-30

Based on these 2 passages we've read, what can we learn from Jesus?

In what areas of our life can we exhibit meekness and gentleness ?

Self-control

Personal freedom is a wonderful aspect of life. In our nature it can also entangle us.

Self-control literally means "self mastering".

Gen.4:7

What does God say about sin? It is crouching at our door. What does Jesus say we must do?

What areas of our lives require self-control and discipline?

2Tim 1:7

What does this passage tell us?

Discuss other tools we can use to practice self-control/discipline in our lives.

Break up in groups for openness, sharing and prayer for God to give us a renewed vigor

in living the Spirit filled life.

First Principles: The Word of God

Purpose

 

To show a seeker what the Bible says about itself so that he will be eager to read it in order to discover God's will and apply it to his life so he can change to become like Jesus! 

 

• 2 Timothy 3:16-17. All Scripture is inspired by God, and is to be applied to our lives so that we can be ready for every spiritual challenge.
• Hebrews 4:12-13. The word of God is relevant and can expose and convict us of sin in our lives. It can cut us, but its purpose is to cut out the bad, so that we can be healed—just like a surgeon's scalpel.
• John 8:31-32. Jesus teaches these Jews that intellectual belief is not enough. He calls them to believe God enough to trust his will for their lives. This trust is demonstrated by the decision to live according to Jesus' teaching. True faith is seen in our obedience.
• 1 Timothy 4:16. How we live and what we teach are both essential to salvation. Illustration: Which wing of an airplane is most important? So it is with what you teach and how you live out those beliefs. What is the result of careful attention to our life and doctrine?
• 2 Timothy 4:2-3. If the Bible is so powerful and helpful, why aren't more people truly following what it says? Bottom line, we prefer to live according to our own feelings and desires.
• Matthew 15:1-9. What is another hindrance to following God's word? Religious tradition which takes precedence over the Word of God can result in worldly solutions to spiritual issues and make our worship of God empty and pointless.
• Acts 17:10-12. We are ultimately responsible for what we believe. Religious leaders can be wrong, so we cannot be lazy. Review in greater depth the lessons and sermons you hear to be sure about what you are being taught. Are you willing to take personal responsibility for knowing what the Bible says?
• Psalm 1, Psalm19:7-11. The Bible is more than just words on a page. We need to develop a thirst and devotion to the word of God. How eager are you to regularly meditate on the Scriptures?
• Isaiah 66:1-2. Our attitude should be one of humility, reverence and awe for God's word. Are you willing to live by the Bible, taking God at his Word in your relationship with him? Are you willing to trust God's Word above your own feelings, religious traditions or religious leaders? Will you seek to understand God's will and ways through his inspired Word? 

Additional Helpful Scriptures:

• Psalm 119:60
• Matthew 13:1-23
• John 12:47-48
• 1 Thessalonians 2:13
• James 1:22-25
• 2 Peter 1:20-21, 3:15-16

First Principles: Wordly Wisdom vs Godly Wisdom

Purpose

 

This study will show the stark contrast between the world's wisdom and God's wisdom and help the seeker understand that he or she cannot have it both ways. The accompanying diagram should be developed as the study progresses. (You may want to refer back to this diagram periodically, as it sets up a helpful way of viewing the whole process of conversion.) 

 

• 1 Corinthians 1:18-20. Everyone wants to know "How can I really live?" This passage spells out two fundamental ways to answer this question. The world's wisdom or God's wisdom. How does man in his wisdom view God's wisdom (the cross)? How does God view man's wisdom? Can we have it both ways? If you think I am a fool and I think you are a fool, what will our relationship be like? Establish the wide gulf in the two ways of viewing and living life.
• 1 Corinthians 3:18-20. Why does Paul say "Do not deceive yourselves?" There is something about the world's wisdom that is deceiving. It is easy to convince ourselves that what we want to believe, what is comfortable, what is familiar, is right.
• Matthew 16:13-17. What kind of man was Peter? Was he religious? He certainly gets a right answer here. According to Jesus, where does this answer come from?
• Matthew 16:21-23. What does "Peter rebuked him" mean? Peter thought he was seeing things God's way, but in reality he was still on the side of the world's wisdom. We can know the right answers and still be living according to the wisdom of the world. What was Jesus' response? Where does the world's wisdom really come from? From Satan. No wonder it is the opposite of God's wisdom.
• Before we go on: What is the "world's wisdom"? If you asked a person who is street smart or the person on Wall Street or just a person who watches a lot of TV, what is at the heart of the world's wisdom about how to live? "Look out for number one." "Get what you want." "Get the power, the pleasure, the control you want." "Get the money." "Protect yourself." "Guard your rights." "Maintain your independence." And so what is at the center of man's wisdom? Self! (See 2 Timothy 3:2.)
• Matthew 16:24-26. What is Jesus' message? How is it the opposite of the world's message? (1) Deny self – "disown" (Matthew 26:34). We renounce our old self, our old approach to life. (2) Take up the cross (instrument of death). Die to ourselves. (3) Follow Jesus. Make his life our model. Jesus life is a demonstration of his message. What does Jesus say will be the bottom line for those who "save their own lives"? For those who foolishly lose their lives for him?
• Final thought. What is everything on the left side (world's wisdom) called? Sin. What is everything on the right side (God's wisdom) called? Love. How have you lived according the world's wisdom? Have you ever made a decision to renounce it? Which side was Peter still on (though he was religious)? Which side are you on? 

Additional Helpful Scriptures:

• Isaiah 55:8
• Matthew 5:1-12
• Luke 16:15
• James 4:4
• 2 Corinthians 1:12
• 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

First Principles: Sin

Purpose

 

To help seekers see themselves as our Holy God sees them: utterly sinful and separated from him. This realization brings about a desire for both forgiveness and repentance. Pray for the Holy Spirit to convict seekers of their sinfulness in this study (John 16:8). 

 

• 1 Peter 2:9-10.  Every person is either in the darkness or the light. This study will show us that outside of Jesus we are all in the darkness.
  
• Isaiah 59:1-2. What is the consequence of sin? Sin hurts others, hurts ourselves, but ultimately sin hurts and separates us from God. God is light. As long as the wall of sin remains, we are in the darkness. In order to have a relationship with God, the barrier of sin must come down.
• Romans 3:21-24. We will come back to other ideas in this text later, but focus on v23. Who has sinned? Use illustrations to show that some are better than others, but all sin and fall short. Examples: Swimming to Hawaii, or graph showing piles of sin. Who is more lost? There is no "good person" who is without sin.
• Mark 7:14-23. Sin is not simply wrong actions, but a problem of the heart. Who is responsible for our sin? Despite genetics, parenting, peer pressure and socio-economic conditions, we are responsible for our own sin, which comes from our own hearts and makes us unclean. What is the consequence of being unclean before God? Discuss the sins Jesus talks about here.
• Galatians 5:19-21. Sin is the fundamentally "un-God-ward" orientation of our "flesh" or "sinful nature" and finds expression in many different ways. Emphasize "and the like." What is the common element in all these things? Self-centeredness. Be as specific as necessary to explain and share from your own life about the sins listed. How do you see yourself in these verses? What sins have been characteristic of your own sinful nature? (If needed, look at additional Scriptures which catalog sins.)
• James 4:17. We are sinful and in need of forgiveness not only as a result of those sins we have committed, but for failing to do the good that we know to do.
• Romans 6:15-18. How does sin enslave? Note that sin is a power that must be defeated as well as specific acts that must be repented of. Who alone can set us free from sin? (John 8:31-36)
• Romans 6:23. What are the eternal consequences of sin? Why be urgent to learn about receiving the gift of God that comes through Jesus Christ? Review these verses as honestly as you can to get in touch with the bad news about your own sinfulness. In the next couple of studies, we will look at the good news of God's solution to our bondage to sin. (Note: In some instances it is important to have the person articulate how he or she was saved or forgiven of sin before examining the Bible's teaching about salvation.) 

Additional Helpful Scriptures:  

• Revelation 21:8
• Romans 1:21-32
• 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
• Colossians 3:5-11
• 2 Timothy 3:1-5
• James 2:10-11

First Principles: The Cross

Purpose

 

To better understand the love of God and the cost of purchasing our forgiveness as seen in the death of Jesus. This study uses the Gospel of Mark and Isaiah 53 and may be more compelling when done in connection with watching scenes from a movie like "The Passion of the Christ." 

 

• Romans 3:22-26, 5:6-8. The cross is a demonstration of God's justice in the face of sin. God would not be righteous if he simply looked the other way in the face of sin and evil. At the same time, the cross is the greatest demonstration of God's love. Because God loves us, Jesus Christ died for our sins.
• Mark 10:42-45. Jesus understood God's plan for him to give himself as a ransom for us—to die for our sins. He could do this only because of his sinless life.
• Mark 14:26-15:41. One account of the crucifixion. As you read and discuss each section, ask the question: "Why did God allow this to happen to Jesus?" Because He loves us! (To better describe the physical torments of the crucifixion, you may also wish to read "The Passion of the Christ from a Medical Point of View" by C. Truman Davis, M.D.)
• Isaiah 53. Written about 700 years before Jesus, this chapter predicted what the Messiah would do at the cross and why. (Note: In Luke 22:37, Jesus quotes from Isaiah 53 and says it was about him.) Read entire chapter. Points of emphasis: • Verses 1-3 – despised and rejected
  • Verses 4-6 – pierced for our transgressions; crushed for our iniquities; by his wounds we are healed. Suggestion: read this passage again putting in your own name.
  • Verses 7-9 – like a lamb to the slaughter; for the transgressions of my people he was stricken. You may want to remind the person of the sins he/she described in earlier study.
  • Verses 10-12 – he is a guilt offering; but after the suffering of his soul, satisfaction (resurrection) 
• 1 Peter 2:21-25. Why did Jesus die on the cross for us? So that we might die to sin and live for righteousness. This is our whole-hearted response to the cross. 

Additional Helpful Scriptures:

• Psalm 22
• Acts 2:22-38
• Colossians 2:13-14
• Ephesians 2:1-10
• John 1:29