This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on January 11, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 1:1-31 KJV. "1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: 3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on January 25, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 KJV. "1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on February 1, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 3:1-23 KJV. "1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. 2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. 3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on February 8, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 4:1-21 KJV. "1 Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. 4 For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on February 15, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 5:1-13 KJV. "1 It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife. 2 And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on February 22, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 6:1-20 KJV. "1 Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? 2 Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? 4 If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on March 1, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 7:1-40 KJV. "1 Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. 3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. 4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on March 8, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 KJV. "1 Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. 2 And if any man think that he knoweth anything, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know. 3 But if any man love God, the same is known of him. 4 As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on March 15, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 9:19-10:14 KJV. "9:19 For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. 20 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 21 To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on March 22, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 10:16-33 KJV. "10:16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 17 For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread. 18 Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar? 19 What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on March 29, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 11:2-16 KJV. "2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. 3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. 4 Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head. 5 But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on April 5, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 12:1-7 KJV. "1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. 2 Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. 3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on April 12, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 12:8-31 KJV. "8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on April 26, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 KJV. "1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on May 3, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 13:8-14:1 KJV. "8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on May 24, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 15:35-49 KJV. "35 But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? 36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: 37 And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38 But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body.
This lesson was taught by Clifford McLain on May 31, 1981. This lesson covers 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 KJV. "50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 22:1-14 KJV "1 And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, 2 The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, 3 And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. 4 Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.
Scripture Reading: Genesis 1:1-28 KJV. "1 In the beginning God created the Heaven and the earth. 2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. 3 And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. 4 And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. 5 And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.
Scripture Reading: Colossians 1:12-20 KJV. "12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven."
Scripture Reading: Mark 4:26-32 KJV "26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; 27 And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. 28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. 29 But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come. 30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?
Scripture Reading: Mark 4:26-32 KJV "26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; 27 And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. 28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. 29 But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come. 30 And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? 31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth: 32 But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it."
Scripture Reading: Genesis 8:15-9:17 "8:15 And God spake unto Noah, saying, 16 Go forth of the ark, thou, and thy wife, and thy sons, and thy sons' wives with thee. 17 Bring forth with thee every living thing that is with thee, of all flesh, both of fowl, and of cattle, and of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth; that they may breed abundantly in the earth, and be fruitful, and multiply upon the earth. 18 And Noah went forth, and his sons, and his wife, and his sons' wives with him: 19 Every beast, every creeping thing, and every fowl, and whatsoever creepeth upon the earth, after their kinds, went forth out of the ark. 20 And Noah builded an altar unto the Lord; and took of every clean beast, and of every clean fowl, and offered burnt offerings on the altar. 21 And the Lord smelled a sweet savour; and the Lord said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done. 22 While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:10-18 KJV "10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;"
Scripture Reading: Genesis 9:18-27 KJV "18 And the sons of Noah, that went forth of the ark, were Shem, and Ham, and Japheth: and Ham is the father of Canaan. 19 These are the three sons of Noah: and of them was the whole earth overspread. 20 And Noah began to be an husbandman, and he planted a vineyard: 21 And he drank of the wine, and was drunken; and he was uncovered within his tent. 22 And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father, and told his two brethren without. 23 And Shem and Japheth took a garment, and laid it upon both their shoulders, and went backward, and covered the nakedness of their father; and their faces were backward, and they saw not their father's nakedness. 24 And Noah awoke from his wine, and knew what his younger son had done unto him. 25 And he said, Cursed be Canaan; a servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren. 26 And he said, Blessed be the Lord God of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant. 27 God shall enlarge Japheth, and he shall dwell in the tents of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant."
Scripture Reading: Genesis 11:1-9 KJV "11 And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech. 2 And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there. 3 And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them throughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter. 4 And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth. 5 And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded. 6 And the Lord said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do. 7 Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. 8 So the Lord scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city. 9 Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the Lord did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the Lord scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth."
Scripture Reading: Revelation 17 and 18 KJV. "17:1 And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: 2 With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication. 3 So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. 4 And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: 5 And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. 6 And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration. 7 And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns. 8 The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. 9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. 10 And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space. 11 And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition. 12 And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive power as kings one hour with the beast. 13 These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.
Scripture Reading: Romans 1:18-32 KJV. "18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
Scripture Reading: Genesis 12:1-8 KJV. "12:1 Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: 2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: 3 And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. 4 So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran. 5 And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came. 6 And Abram passed through the land unto the place of Sichem, unto the plain of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land. 7 And the Lord appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the Lord, who appeared unto him. 8 And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched his tent, having Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the Lord."
Scripture Reading: Genesis 19:1-14 KJV. "19:1 And there came two angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing them rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground; 2 And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant's house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet, and ye shall rise up early, and go on your ways. And they said, Nay; but we will abide in the street all night.
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 12:1-14 KJV. "12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 12:1-14 KJV. "12:1 And the Lord spake unto Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, saying, 2 This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you.
Scripture Reading: Exodus 24:1-11 KJV. "24:1 And he said unto Moses, Come up unto the Lord, thou, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel; and worship ye afar off. 2 And Moses alone shall come near the Lord: but they shall not come nigh; neither shall the people go up with him. 3 And Moses came and told the people all the words of the Lord, and all the judgments: and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which the Lord hath said will we do.
Scripture Reading: 2 Samuel 7:5-24 and 1 Kings 3:1-5 KJV.
2 Samuel 7:5-24 "5 Go and tell my servant David, Thus saith the Lord, Shalt thou build me an house for me to dwell in? 6 Whereas I have not dwelt in any house since the time that I brought up the children of Israel out of Egypt, even to this day, but have walked in a tent and in a tabernacle. 7 In all the places wherein I have walked with all the children of Israel spake I a word with any of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, Why build ye not me an house of cedar? 8 Now therefore so shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith the Lord of hosts, I took thee from the sheepcote, from following the sheep, to be ruler over my people, over Israel:
1 Kings 11:1-13 "11 But king Solomon loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Zidonians, and Hittites; 2 Of the nations concerning which the Lord said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall not go in to them, neither shall they come in unto you: for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods: Solomon clave unto these in love. 3 And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart. 4 For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father. 5 For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 3:1-17 KJV. "3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 4 And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 4:1-12;17 KJV. "4:1 Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. 2 And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. 3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. 4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:1-20 KJV. "5:1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: 2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, 3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Scripture Reading: Romans 6:15-23 KJV. "15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. 16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
Scripture Reading: Colossians 2:8; 3:1-4 KJV. "2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 3:1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory."
Scripture Reading: 1 Tim 3:16-4:16 KJV. "16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 1:15-2:10 KJV. "15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:10-20 KJV. "10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
January blessed us with a guest teacher. Leland Maples from Odessa Texas, was in town to attend the Northside Bible Church Men’s Retreat and stayed over to lead on Jan 23rd. The Scripture reading for this lesson is 1 Tim 4:1-5 "4 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; 3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. 4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: 5 For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. KJV". Listen as Leland gives the lesson.
The lesson on February 6, 2000 was entitled "President's Day" and the scripture reading was in Romans 12:1-2 "12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
The lesson on February 20, 2000 was entitled "Sincerity" and the scripture reading was in Ephesians 6:18-24 KJV "18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Doubting Thomas. This lesson on April 30, 2000 teaches a lesson on the Apostle Thomas. He was saying "I won't believe it unless I see it." When the Lord appeared unto him right after he said that took a particlar note of blessings given who believe without seeing. Listen now.
The Armor of God - Part 1. The first lesson of the study talks about how the Christian should have the strentgh of God before he puts on the Armor of God. If you participate in the battle with your own strength you will fail. In this battle you are asked to stand. Your not fighting for victory because the Lord has already won! Listen to the first lesson in this series.
The Armor of God - Part 2. The second lesson in this series talks about why we are to put on the Armor of God... "beware of the wiles of the Devil." Ephesians 6:11 says "11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." Listen to the lesson to learn more.
Derek McCammon gave a special 4th of July message on July 2nd. His lesson celebrated America’s 224th birthday and asks the question “Is America growing closer or farther to God?” Listen to his lesson on 07-02 and hear what the scriptures say.
The Armor of God - Part 5. The lesson on 07-16 covers the scripture in 1 Tim 2:3-4 (KJV) says “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” Not only does God want all men to be saved, He also wants them to come to the knowledge of the truth. Click here to listen now.
The Armor of God - Part 6. The Sunday lesson on 07-23 continues the study on the armor of God found in Ephesians 6:10-17. The emphasis this week is on the Breastplate of Righteousness. As Philippians 3:9 says “And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith”. Listen to this lesson here!
The Armor of God - Part 7. The Sunday lesson of the week on 07-30 zero’s in on the third piece in the armour of God - “having your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace”. This lesson also gives a good example of using right division by identifying all the different gospel’s in scripture and encourages you to find out which one’s apply today. How many gospel’s are there? Listen now to find out!
Right Division - Part 2. Although some things today appear to be outrageous, how can the Christian take a position on any issue that claims to be out of the Bible or received from God? How do we ensure that we do the right thing right? The principles of right division give the Bible student a compass and a rudder to study scripture and protect from error… by navigating through the Bible knowing what pertains to whom, and when.
Right Division - Part 3. Foundation of the World - Before vs. From or Since. Another example of Right Division can be seen when studying the words “Foundation + world”. If you search the scriptures to find the references containing “before + foundation” vs. “from or since + foundation” you will find another glaring example of comparing scripture with scripture to reveal a truth that has a before and after. “Before the foundation of the world” is where we find Christ who is the source of the believer’s eternal position (1 Tim 2:5).
The Armor of God - Part 8. The Sunday Sermon on 08-20 returns to the study in Ephesians 6:10-17 regarding the whole Armour of God. This lesson covers “the shield of faith” which is the subject in Eph 6:16... “above all put on the shield of faith so you may be able to quinch the fiery darts of the devil!” Click here to listen now.
The Armor of God - Part 9. You need a personal savior! The Sunday lesson on 08-27 covers the helmet of salvation found in Ephesians 6:17. (KJV) “And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God”:
The Armor of God - Part 10. The Sword of The Spirit - The Sunday Sermon on 09-03 covers the second part of Ephesians 6:17 ... and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. The effectual word of God. Often the common person doesn’t even understand the simple word of God. How about the effectual word of God? What is the effectual word of God? Click here to find out now.
The Armor of God - Part 11. Prayer - The Sunday lesson on 09-10 teaches on one of the Christian’s greatest responsibilities - Prayer! Do you pray always? When should you pray? Ephesians 6:18-20 says something about this and more. Click here to listen to a lesson about prayer and how important it is in your fellowship with Christ.
The Armor of God - Part 12 (final). Sept 17th celebrated US Constitution Day! The Sunday lesson of the week on 09-17 finishes a long series in Ephesians. Also mentioned is the celebration of Constitution Day and how it relates to Ephesians. As chapters 1-3 are doctrinal and 4-6 are practial to the Christian so is The Declaration of Independence to the Constitution of the United States. Wonder how? Listen here now! Or click here to listen to the entire lesson.
Merry Christmas! Yes, Friday, September 29th is the actual birthdate of our Lord Jesus Christ. But what about December 25th? The audio lesson on 09-24 touches on the scriptures and how tradition again muddies up the Word. Learn about the scriptures for dating his birth then reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Listen here now. Click here to listen to other Christmas studies from the audio archives.
Merry Christmas! Yes, Friday, September 29th is the actual birth date of our Lord Jesus Christ. The audio lesson on 10-01 finishes a two week review on the birth date of Jesus Christ. Although the mechanics of dating his birth are in black and white, the true meaning of Christmas is in red. Be sure and download the handout as well. Click here to listen to other Christmas studies from the audio archives.
The Role of Government - Part 1. What lesson’s should be noted from this part of history? Part 1 on 10-08 covers the Christian vs. Pagan view of Government, while Part 2 on 10-15 covers modern day Babel. Be sure and download the handout as well.
The Role of Government - Part 2. A new Tower of Babel? This audio series studies the modern day acceptance of ancient Babel philosophy. What lesson’s should be noted from this part of history? Part 1 on 10-08 covers the Christian vs. Pagan view of Government, while Part 2 on 10-15 covers modern day Babel. Be sure and download the handout as well.
The lesson on 10-22 starts a new series on Right Division. Derek McCammon opens the series exploring the need for handling the word of God, rightly divided. If you are new to Right Division. Be sure and follow this series here or on the Right Division audio page. You should also visit the Right Division home page for more studies on the subject.
Each year on October 31st, the doorbell rings with a familiar shout of ‘Trick or Treat’. Is this harmless fun or does it open the door to something else? Should Halloween be Hallowed? The lesson on 10-29 discusses the tradition of Halloween. Click here now to listen to this study and decide for yourself how a Christian should handle this holiday. Be sure and download the handout as well.
The lesson on 11-05 is the second lesson in a series on Right Division. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart... and He shall direct thy path.” This familiar passage in Proverbs 3:5-6 sums up the principle of right division in “direct thy path”. The principles of handling the Word of God accurately are necessary so we don’t rob the Word of it’s truth. All scripture is for us but not all scripture is to us... Want to learn more? Click here to listen now.
The lesson of the week on 11-12 is the third in a series on Right Division expressed in 2 Tim 2:15 Man proposes but God disposes. In light of whatever happens in our walk... do we stop and priase God for what he has done? Our responsibility as a Christian is to remember the blessings we have from God each and every day. Listen here for encouragement..
The holiday season is here and the lesson on 11-19 continues the series on Right Division with the fourth lesson. However, this week the message challanges you to consider how thankful you are in your day to day walk with God. Is thankfulness a once a year exercise or should it be more? Click here to listen to the lesson on 11-19.
The audio lesson on 11-26 continues the series on Right Division while covering Old Testament chronology. The lesson demonstrates how God is in control no matter who is in power. In light of the confusion with the American Presidential election... it’s nice to be reminded that God is in control. The lesson shows how God will accomplish His will no matter what political rulers are in place. Another component of this lesson introduces several of the “Days” in scripture... Man’s Day and the Day of Christ. Click here now to listen to this timely lesson.
The lesson on 12-24 Christmas Eve encourages you to consider what gifts you give at Christmas. Do you get caught up in the commercialism of the season or the gift of eternal life? Is it chaotic with false feelings of joy or the joy of a Christian celebrating eternal life? In Adam, we have received the gift of sin and therefore death. God’s gift to sinners is His Son, Christ Jesus, where we receive eternal life. Click here to listen to the lesson of the week
Building a Good Foundation. The lesson on 12-03 encourages the christian to make sure they cover the fundamentals... by building a proper foundation.A good foundation can withstand any calamity in life... whether it be an act of war or an attack on your witness. The 59th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor is also remembered with a story about Chaplain Al Schmidt on the USS Oklahoma. Click here to listen to the lesson of the week. A handout goes with the lesson... click here to download it for review while you listen.
The lesson on 12-10 begins with a scripture reading in Luke 1:26-31. How do you handle the issues of life? Christ Jesus was born in this world to die that we might live... therefore, do you fly your Christian flag this time of year and spread the good news?As challenges appear in your life do you ignore them, convince yourself what isn’t... is, or walk in your own might? Listen here to the lesson of the week or check out the audio lessons in December.
What should be the message at Christmas? Shop ‘til you drop? The lesson on 12-17 touches on three important activities you should have as we celebrate the birth of Christ Jesus. Instead of materialistic activities, you should practice putting your Faith in God, your Focus on God, and your Fellowship with God. Listen here to the audio lesson of the week.
What is The Issue? The audio lesson on 01-07 asks the question “What Is The Issue?” We all deal with several types of issues: Personal, Social, Political, and Spiritual. Do you spend your time wondering what to wear, or what’s in style? How about were to live or work? Whether or not to be conservative or liberal? But in the end, what really matters are the issues of life... and these come out of your heart. Click here to listen now for encouragement to open your heart to the Word of God. You can also go to the audio room for past Sunday lessons.
Guard Your Heart. The Audio lesson on 01-14 continues from last weeks topic “The Issues of Life”. This week however focuses on the personal aspect of your heart and who you find yourself serving the most. There are many stuggles in life... but when all is said and done... there really is only one stuggle... and it’s about who is the master of your life. Who is your master? Your heart responds to your master and it should be filled with integrity and uprightness. Click here to listen now
The Heart of God. Last week’s lesson discussed the heart of man... the personal heart. The lesson on 01-21 explores the scriptures to discover the heart of God. God has a heart and His heart is perfect. Our hearts however are sinful. The same was true for the nation of Israel. Their national heart was not set on God and they paid the price for it. As it is written ”For their heart was not right with him, neither were they stedfast in his covenant.” Ps 78:37 (KJV). Click here to listen to the lesson of the week.
HOPE. The audio lesson on 01-28 covers the subject of HOPE. In lieu of the OSU Basketball team plane crash tragedy, the wake-up call is to each one of us with the question “Where do you put your hope?” We often put our hope in people, places, or things but all of these will let us down. The only place to put our hope is in Christ Jesus. Click here to listen to the audio lesson of the week or go to the listing of audio lessons for this month. Be sure and download the handout for this lesson as well.
Acts Period Epistles - Part 1. An Understanding Heart. The lesson on 02-04 discusses the idea of having an understanding heart. God shows us in scripture that the Nation of Israel had one but lost it when Nebuchadnezzar conquered them. At that time God's glory left the temple and did not return until Jesus Christ came to Israel as King. Then, when Israel as a nation was presented the King as well as the Kingdom, they rejected them, showing Israel did not have an understanding heart. Today God has given us a calling with the administration of The Mystery.
Wisdom and Understanding. The lesson on 02-11 taught on Wisdom and Understanding. Two individuals from the Bible, Solomon and the Apostle Paul, provide the backdrop for this study comparing and contrasting wisdom and understanding in their lives. Which person demonstrated wisdom and understanding the best? The answer may surprise you. Click here to listen to the lesson of the week.
Acts Period Epistles - Part 2. Acts Period Chronology. The lesson on 02-18 continues the study presented on 02-04 and covers the chronology of the New Testament books written during the Acts Period. God's given us objective truth in the bible... it's what the bible says... Subjective truth is what you believe the bible says... and it's what you do with it. Click here to listen to the lesson of the week.
Acts Period Epistles - Part 3. Why has Everyone Gone APE? The lesson on 02-25 asks the question “Why has everyone gone APE?” The Acts Period Epistles cover God's revealed plan to Israel. Today, they appeal to those who search for a supernatual solution to their problems vs. a walk of faith in an age of grace. Man continues to search for utopia while evil people prosper. Often we might find ourselves lusting after their success or power. Perhaps this is another reason why doctrine from the Acts Period is so appealing.
Acts Period Epistles - Part 4. Acts Period Epistles - Why has everyone has gone APE? The lesson on 03-04 continues to discuss those who claim for themselves doctrine that was intended for Apostles sent to Israel. Following Acts Period doctrine leads to frustration and failure because it belongs to another period and another calling. Today, the Apostle Paul provides christians a pattern for fellowship. In Acts, it was James, Peter, John, and others who taught the law unto Israel while Paul was sent to the gentiles teaching grace.
Acts Period Epistles - Part 5. Understanding Acts . Some of the maintenence that goes into driving a car is easy and we do it often... like cleaning our windows, filling up with gas, or changing the oil every 3000 miles. As Christians, there are some things that are basic and fundamental to maintaining a proper relationship with the Lord... like praying, fellowship, and studying the Bible. However, some maintenance may be needed or even neglected... like changing the spark plugs in your car. These fire the engine and get you on the road to where you're going.
St Patrick's Day. Maewyn Succat had Good News… and it has nothing to do with good luck. On March 17, each year many people celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by wearing green clothes, drinking green beer, participating in parades, dyeing rivers green, and thanking the luck of the Irish. Who is Saint Patrick and why is there a holiday to honor him? What about the Luck of the Irish? Well, the word “luck” does not occur anywhere in scripture. This is evidence that nowhere in the Bible does it give place to “luck”.
Acts Period Epistles - Part 6. The lesson on 03-25 finishes the series covering the Acts Period Epistles by showing the connection between Galatians and Acts. We know that all scripture is for us but not all scripture is to us. So the goal of understanding the Acts period is to understand what epistles were written during this time period so we may keep what is taught in its context. If you take verses, chapters, or even books of scripture out of context you create a pre-text which leads to error when interpreting Gods word. Click here now to listen to the lesson of the week.
Are You Comfortable? Leland Maples is the guest speaker this week and presented the lesson on 04-01 which asks the question "Are You Comfortable"? Leland goes on to point out that most of the people called to do God's work were moved from doing what was "comfortable" to what was “uncomfortable” for Christ's sake. As an example, the Apostle Paul was a Pharisee of the Pharisee's but his calling was to be the Apostle unto the Gentiles.
Palm Sunday. The lesson on 04-08 begins the celebration of Easter beginning with Palm Sunday. In Christ's preparation during the week, He held the last supper with his disciples, and at that table was a cup. The cup represented His blood which was to be shed at the cross. His blood was more than just blood... it is God's blood because Jesus was more than just a man, He is the God man and the mediator of all men as the only way of salvation. After the last supper, Jesus retired to a garden with a few of his disciples and prayed to the Father.
Spiritual Chess. The lesson on 04-15 celebrates a risen Savior! The resurrection is the difference between a false hope and eternal life. If human history were likened unto a chess game, there is a clear match going on between God and Lucifer. This “cosmic chess match” is the struggle between good and evil but although the game is still being played, there are very few moves left for Satan before he is defeated for eternity because God has played the ultimate move with Christ Jesus and His resurrection!
The lesson on 04-22 asks the question “ Does God Keep Secrets?” According to Deut 29:29 (KJV) “The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law.” So, the secret things belong unto the Lord until He reveals them. Today, there are many examples of organizations keeping secrets classified from public knowledge in order to protect very important programs.
The lesson on 04-29 continues the idea of a “Heavenly Intelligence Agency” Today, there are many examples of organizations keeping secrets classified from public knowledge in order to protect very important programs. Important information is kept secret until it is deemed appropriate to declassify the details to the right people at the right time. The same holds true for the Godhead. The Godhead has declassified it’s purpose in Christ Jesus and gave it to the Apostle Paul to reveal their eternal purpose to us. Do you know what has been declassified on your behalf?
The lesson on 05-06 discusses Prayer in an Age of Grace. Thursday, May 3rd, was the National Day of Prayer in America. One of the fundamental privileges that a Christian has is their ability to talk to God through prayer on any subject whether it's a National Day of Prayer or just any other day. In the Bible there have been many examples of prayer offered to God in all different situations. What kind of prayers should a Christian offer up to God that are approved in His sight? What is God obligated to do with our prayers?
Mother’s Day. The lesson on 05-13 celebrates Mother’s Day in America. Being a Mom is a special calling and they are often a source of comfort and encouragement. From the beginning in Genesis, the man and woman were to cleave to each other and become one flesh. The wife then was given another critcal role with motherhood. It’s the mother that establishes the home and we learn from the scriptures that she is a crown to her husband and their household. Click here to listen to the lesson honoring Mother’s.
The lesson on 05-20 discusses "that gospel" which Paul identifies in Galatians 2:1-2. This gospel is one of 15 gospels mentioned in scripture. Paul wrote 14 books in the New Testament and 7 of them were delivered during the Acts Period. Galatians was one of those books and provides us with the key to understand the context of "that gospel" which was foretold in Deuteronomy 32:21 and confirmed in Romans 11:11. This "gospel" is that the gentiles would be able to receive the salvation message in order to provoke Israel to jealousy. Click here to listen to the lesson for 05-20.
The lesson on 05-27 continues to study what Paul calls “ My Gospel” as mentioned in Romans 16:25-27. What was Paul trying to convey? There are 15 “gospels” in scripture and it’s very important to apply the principles of right division and to understand what “My Gospel” entails. The lesson also celebrates the holiday of Memorial Day in America, which honors those who gave their lives during wartime for the freedoms we enjoy today. Click here to listen now.
The Obedience of Faith. What was the Apostle Paul saying in Romans 16:26 that "is now made manifest ... for the obedience of faith"? Israel was given the responsibility of evangelizing the nations because of their potential "peculiar treasure" status. However, their stubbornness fulfilled a prophecy from Deut 32:21 in the song of Moses... that God was going to use the nations to provoke Israel to jealousy. If Israel were to follow Christ, the nations would take hold of the skirt of a Jew because they would know that God was with them.
Keeping Covenants in Context (during the Acts period). Acts 13:46 says "It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you (Israel)..." This is the thrust of the book of Acts. When the Apostle Paul said this he continues with "seeing you (Israel) put it from you... we turn to the Gentiles." Some see this passage in Acts 13 as a dispensational change but it was not. When God sent Paul to the Gentiles, it wasn't until Acts 28:28 that salvation was sent (authorized) unto the Gentiles. Acts 13:46 is part of Old Testament prophecy and wasn’t anything new.
Father’s Day. The lesson on 06-17-2001 celebrates Father’s Day in America. When God ordained the family, He created several relationships that help teach us how much God the Father loves us. The earthly father relationship is a role that teaches about God. The wave of emotion that comes over a new father upon his firstborn child is incredible. The joy and love that is felt when caring for a child that grows right in front ofyour eyes into a person is a picture of the love our heavenly Father has for us as we grow and mature in fellowship with Him.
The Middle Wall of Partition. The lesson on 06-24 starts with Acts 15:12,13,19, 20. It’s here the dispute was being made between the Jewish belivers and new Gentile belivers on what parts of the law they should keep. They had a real problem on their hands because there was a wall separating these believers - both literally and figuratively. Was Christ here to divide or unite? He testified that He would cause division among many people... this division was always between the non-believier and the believer.
Content & Context. Two very important principles that are required for the right division of scripture. These two disciplines help put the pieces together for interpreting the events of Acts 16:1-5. The Apostle Paul circumcises Timothy yet earlier in Acts it was discussed that circumcision was not required for the gentile converts. The gentiles had four decrees to follow and circumcision was not one of them yet Paul performs the circumcision. Why? The lesson on 07-01 studies this event and provides the proper content within the right context to show why Paul circumcised Timothy.
Freedom in Christ. July 4th was the celebration of Independence day in America honoring the 225th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence declaring freedom from England. Just as this day was set aside to celebrate America’s national freedoms, the Christian should set aside time to recognize the freedom we have in Christ Jesus. The lesson on 07-08 teaches from Acts 16:6-10. The book of Acts is as much about the Acts of the Holy Spirit as it is the Acts of the Apostles. What are the differences between the activity of the Holy Spirit in Acts compared to today?
Salvation is simple. “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:16-17. How can simplicity be associated with Christ? “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” 1 Tim 3:16.
The Sovereignty of God and the Free Will of Man . The decision in Acts 16:5-10 to go west with the Word of God is the very beginning of how the western civilization has been blessed with the truth that is in Christ Jesus. There are really only two religions in the word... Hinduism and it's off springs, and the Judeo/Christian faith in it's various denominations. The lesson on 07-22 teaches on the Sovereignty of God and the Free will of Man when looking at Acts 16:14 with a woman named Lydia. It says "who's heart the Lord opened...".
The Jailor’s Problem. In Acts 16:23-34, the Phillipian Jailor had a problem on his hand. He was charged with keeping Paul and Silas in jail or it would be his life. When he awoke, the jail had been opened from an earthquake caused by God yet Paul and Silas were still there singing praises unto the Lord. The first problem the jailor thought he had was the whereabouts of his prisoners...
“Working out your own salvation”? Can we save ourselves? Absolutely not. We know that from Ephesians 2:8-9 that "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” So then what is Philippians 2:12-16 talking about? The “working out” is your daily walk with the Lord and approaching every circumstance with an attitude that testifies of God’s love and the life that’s in His word. It’s in this witness that you can shine as lights in the world. Consider Paul and Silas in Acts 16:20-34.
The Mystery of Godliness. In 1 Timothy 3:16, Paul acknowledged that without controversy, great is the Mystery of Godliness. First, God was manifested in the flesh. God became a sinless man to save man from sin. Second, He was justified in the spirit. The greek word for Justified is “dikaioo” which means to set forth as righteous, to justify. Christ does just that for everyone who accepts Him as savior. Third, He was seen of Angles. Angels were actively part of Israel’s history, and they witnessed and aided the Lord as He was here in the flesh.
Reasoning out of the Scriptures. The reasoning facilities that you have are only as good as what you put into it. If you base your reasoning on others, which is what you do as a child, then your reasoning is what others have. If you base your reasoning on your own experiences, then it’s only as good as what experiences you have had in your life. If you put it in your own thought processes, then it’s subject to change from day to day. There is only one true absolute place to base your reasoning on and that is the Word of God.
Idolatry. In every generation, there is a cultural or spiritual "fad" of the day. It’s usually present when large groups follow trendy behavior. "Fad's" not only occur in society but in religion as well. When "popularity" takes precedence over your own personal Bible study and knowledge of scripture, then you're at risk of being caught up in the "fad" of the day. When Paul was in Athens, he witnessed trendy religious worship to idols... even to one idol set aside to the “unknown God”.
Stand Up For God’s Word. The Apostle Paul was not a very politically correct person for wherever he went, his message cut most everyone to the heart and they usually ran him out of town or threw him in jail. Why all the fuss? Paul was standing up for the Word of God. When you stick to the scriptures and abide with the truth, the world will always have a problem with it and your popularity will suffer. In Athens, the teaching of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle had their intellectual hold on the people around Mars Hill.
Preach The Word. A Tentmaker preaches the Word. A Jewish father primarily focused on three things for his son as he raised him to be a proper Jew: 1) Circumcision, 2) The Law, and 3) a Trade. We know of Paul’s reputation for Circumcision and keeping the Law... and we see in Acts 18 his trade was that of a tentmaker. Because of his trade, Paul met up with Priscilla and Aquilla who received the Word from Paul as he testified about Christ out of the scriptures. No matter where your work takes you, there will always be an opportunity to share the scriptures and preach Christ.
Attack on America. On September 11, 2001, terrorists hijaked passenger jets and used them as missles by flying them into the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, DC. In the wake of this awful tragedy and act of war, America has called for prayer for the families and victims of this attack. Even though America has been quick to “pray to God”, there has been a distinct lack of specific reference to the one true source of peace... Christ Jesus .
Dating Paul's Books. There are two ways to identify when Paul wrote his letters in the New Testament during the Acts Period. First, when there are historical events mentioned in Acts or one of His 14 epistles. The event in history then provides a time marker for when the book was written. The second way is by the subject matter itself. These two methods allow you to put Paul’s books in order and thereby understand the progressive callings that Paul was responsible for communicating to Israel and Gentiles. We are called to learn the scriptures so we can compare the things that differ.
The attack on the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington, DC has caused many people to ask the question “Is this the End Times?” There is much uncertainty and unrest in the world but one thing is certain... Christ Jesus and His Word. It’s in His word where the student of scripture who rightly divides the word of truth, will ask the question and go to the Bible to search for the answer. What you will find is that there are specific events that must occur in order prior to the Lord’s return.
The Pledge of Allegiance. The recent terrorist attack on America has resulted in a national surge of patriotism and pride in the American Flag. The pledge of Allegience to America’s Flag was established in 1892, which happened to be on the 400 year anniversary of Columbus’ expedition. In 1954 the words “under God” were added by then President Dwight D.
Acts Period timing of the Corinthian Letters. Paul’s missionary journeys provide us a chronological road map to much of the Acts Period epistles. Paul was used by God to write 14 of the New Testament books. The first seven were written during the Acts Period, while the last seven (Eph , Phil, Col, 1 & 2 Tim, Titus, & Philemon) were written after Acts. 1 & 2 Corinthians were part of the first seven. Understanding when books of the Bible are written is very important for the proper interpretation of scripture and an important principle for right division.
The Last Days. Why is modern day society focused on calling here and now the “Last Days”? Christian teaching is focused on mapping recent terrorist tragedies into Biblical events that indicate the “Last Days”. It’s interesting to note that throughout history, many catastrophic events were associated with “Last Days” enthusiasm. The majority of Christian ministries are always trying to figure out the “Last Times” which includes end times events like the rapture, the tribulation, the millenium. Just like the Apostles who asked the questions: When shall these things be?
Which Last Days? There are many “days” mentioned in scripture. It takes a workman to study and sort each reference and determine what applies to whom and when. The “Last Days” are mentioned in several passages, Genesis 49:1-2 being the first. As you will find, there are two primary sets of “Last Days”. The references in 1 & 2 Timothy apply to us today as members of the Body of Christ which is the church. All other references to The “Last Days” pertain to Israel and the restoration of their Nation.
Last Days - Part 3. The lesson on 11-04-2001 is part 3 of a series on the “End Times” Many are asking questions whether or not it’s the “End Times”. The same sentiment was expressed over 2000 years ago when the Apostles asked Christ the question... “And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?” Matt 24:3 (KJV).
The Plan of Redemption - God has a plan and purpose for the Ages. He has revealed this plan to us in His Word. As it's stated in 2 Tim 1:9 (KJV), "Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,". The lesson on 11-18-2001 completes two series of studies. First, it ends the series of lessons that pertain to the timing of the New Testament books written during the Acts Period. This lesson also concludes the mini-series on the "Last Days" as Part 5.
End Times - Part 4. The lesson on 11-11-2001 continues with Part 4 of the end-times mini-series on the “Last Days” click here to review all the lessons). As you study this topic in scripture, it’s important to understand the context of “end times” or “last days” that are referenced in books that were written during the Acts Period. It’s apparent that Peter, John, Jude, and James who wrote their epistles during the Acts period, had expectations that the last days were emminent and ready to begin right then.
The Four Days in Scripture. The lesson on 11-25-2001 provides one more recap of the study series on the “Last Days” with an emphasis on clarifying the differences between the “Day of Christ” and the “Day of the Lord”. There are four pre-emminent “Days” in scripture. Presently we live in the “Day of Man” which is ends when Elijah returns and ushers in the “Day of Christ” which precedes the “Day of the Lord” (to review the four days in scripture, click here). The length of the “Day of Christ” is the time that leads up to the Day of the Lord.
The lesson on 12-02 is a review on the “Four Days” in scripture. It also emphasizes on the Day of Christ and provides a handout to help in understanding the timing and length of these “Days” as they are fulfilled in scripture. Click here to listen to the lesson on 12-02 and be sure and review the handout as well.
Are you a fool for Christ? Throughout the years, individuals have provided us with a testimony of their love for Christ Jesus. From the street preacher to the most established ministry like that of Billy Graham, people have been called to provide their testimony for Christ.
The Names of God. “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
