1. CHURCH-INTRODUCTION
a) DEFINITION
– The CHURCH is made up of those who have had their sins forgiven because of the shed blood of Jesus at Calvary … Re 1:5; 7:14
– Each local gathering of believers is called the church.
> where 2 or 3 are gathered in Jesus’ Name,
He is there … … … ….. Mt 18:20
– Also, all the believers in the world are called the Church… Mt 16:18
Note: The Scriptures make a distinction between the local church and the universal Church. All people who believe in Jesus for salvation are a part of the Universal Church But unless they join themselves to a local body of believers, i.e. a local church, it is difficult to conceive what membership in the Church Universal means.
Examples of local church: Paul wrote to local churches (e.g.. Galatia) who had specific leaders (Ro 16:1,5). Jesus too addressed local assemblies, pointing out their specific needs as a body (Re 23). These local believers gather together regularly (Heb 10:25) for prayer, teaching and fellowship (Ac 2:42). Only then can they truly understand what it is to be true members of the Universal Church made up of people from every tribe, tongue and nation (Re 5:9).
– In Greek, “church” means “the called-out ones”.
b) FOUNDATION OF THE CHURCH
– The Church belongs to Jesus Christ …. Mt 16:18 .
– It is founded on the confession (the rock) that Jesus is the Chnst (Messiah), the Son of the Living God ….. Mt 16:16-18
The name “Peter” means “a small stone.”
The word “rock” means “a huge rock”… bedrock.
Note: It is NOT Peter himself who is the foundation of the Church, but his confession of Jesus, the “huge rock”.
Note: The acknowledgment of Jesus as Christ is the issue (Mt 16:20).
– To whom are the keys of the kingdom given?
> Is it Peter only? No, see ….. Mt 18:18; Joh20:19-23
The keys are given to ALL the disciples in the Church of Jesus.
> Note: Peter used the keys to “…open the door of faith unto the Gentiles” (Ac 14:27).
> Note: Paul used the keys “…form Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel” I Co 4:15
> For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:” Ga2:8
– Jesus Christ is the Chief Cornerstone (meaning the top stone of a pyramid) of the Church… Eph 2:20 (He is over the Church-the Head) .
– The apostles and prophets arc the foundational and foundation-laying ministries Eph 2:20. (The leaders are under the Church – supporting.)
– The Spirit-empowered Church began on Day
of Pentecost… Ac 2:1-47
> Old Testament believers – “church in the wilderness’.. Ac 7:37-38
c) NAMES GIVEN TO MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH
– Saints …. Ac9:13; ICo l:2;Re 13:7
– Brethren ….. Ac 12:17;Ro 1:13;Mt 23:8-10
– Christians …. Ac 11:26; 26:28
– Elect Mk 13:27; Ro 8:33
d) DESCRIPTION OFP THE CHURCH
– God’s workmanship Eph 2:10
> created to do good works … Eph 2:10
> created to be holy .. Eph 4:24
– Citizens of God’s Kingdom Eph2:19
> people of God (separated unto God) …. 2Co 6:16-17
– Members of God’s Household . Eph 2:19; ITi 3:15
> children of God ….. Eph 1:5; 3:14-15; 5:8
– Temple of God . Eph 2:20-22
> God lives in it by His Spirit …. Eph 2:22; ICo 3:16
> to be a holy priesthood IPe 2:5
– Bride of Christ .. Eph 5:25-32; Re 19:7; 21:2; 22:17
> loved by Christ. Eph 5;25
> gave Himself for the Church … Eph 5:25
> cleansed the Church ….. Eph 5:26
> they will be united . Eph 5:31-32
> Christ as the Bridegroom … Job 3:29; 2Co 11:2
> wedding supper of the Lamb … Re 19:9
> great mystery – Jesus & Church Eph 5:29-32
– Body of Christ…Eph 1:22-23; 4:15; ICo 12:27; Col 1:24
> Jesus lives in us ….. Ga 2:20
> Christ as the Head . Eph 1:22; 4:15; 5:23; Col 1:18; 2:19
> interconnected . Eph4:11-16;ICo12:26;Ga6:2
> unity ….. Eph 4:4-6
– Temple of the Holy Spirit … Eph 2:20-22; ICo 3:16-17; 6:19; IPe 2:4-8
> people are living stones ….. IPe 2:5
> Jesus is the Chief Cornerstone . IPe 2:6; Eph 2:20
> Apostles and Prophets are the foundation . Eph 2:20
– A Family ….. Eph2:l9
> all have one Father . Isa 63:16; 9:6; Ho 11:1; Ro 8:15; Job 1:12; Ga 4:5,6;
2Co 6:18
> called brothers and sisters .. Mt 12:50; ITi 5:2; Jas 2:15
– A Flock . Isa 40:11; Ezc 34; Zee 9:16; Joh 10; Lu 12:32; Ac 20:29
> Jesus is the (Chief) Shepherd … Joh 10; Mt 18:10-14; IPe 5:1-4
> We are His sheep … Isa 40:11; Lu 12:32; Joh 10
> False shepherds called hirelings …. Joh 10:13
> False brethren called wolves in sheep’s clothing…. Mt 7:15; Ac 20:29
> Satan is the (Chief) wolf….. Lu 10:3; Joh 10:12
c) ISRAEL AND THE CHURCH
– Much of what belonged only to Israel is now for the Whole Church.
…. Ro 2:28-29; Ga 3:26-29; Ro 4:11-12,16-18; 9:7-8
– Yet there is a definite future for Israel as a nation ..Ro 11:1-36
> God did not reject His people .. Ro 11:1
> a remnant was chosen by grace…. Ro 11:2-6
> Israel erred by trying to be saved by works ….. Ro 11:6-7
> Israel’s fall was the cause of Gentile’s salvation… Ro 11:11
> Gentile nations will make Israel jealous … Ro 11:11
> Israel will again be accepted, at the end … Ro 11:12,15
> Israel as a natural branch is easily grafted in … Ro 11:24
> Israel is hard against the gospel now .. Ro 11:25
> Israel will enter when God finishes with
the Gentiles … … … … Ro 11:25-27
> God’s promises to Israel are not changed . Ro 11:29
> Israel will enter by grace, not works…. Ro 11:30-32
f) THE CHURCH PICTURED IN EPHESIANS
– Gathering a church . Eph 1:22
– Growing a body Eph 1:23
– Building a temple/building Eph 2:21-22
– Raising a family ….. Eph 3:15
– Maturing a man Eph2:15;4:13
– Adorning a bride …. Eph5:23-33
– Aiming/training a soldier … Eph 6:10-18
2. THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH
a) GOD’S COMMISSION TO HIS PEOPLE
– Adam, Noah: be fruitful and multiply . Ge l:28;9:l-7
– Abraham: through you all nations blessed Ge 12:1-3; 18:18
> Repeated to Isaac…. Ge 26:4
> Repeated to Jacob Ge 28:14
> Revealed to David ICh 16:15-24
> Revealed to Korah ….. Ps 47
> Revealed to Isaiah . Isa 49:12; 11:9-12
– Moses: to be a kingdom of priests . Ex 19:6
– Jesus: the Great Commission spoken .. Mt 28: Mk 16: Lu 24
– Paul: the gospel to the Gentiles Ac 9:15;Ro 15:7-21
– Peter: the gospel to all peoples Ac 10:9-48;11:15-18; IPe 2:9
b) GOD’S LOVE FOR THE NATIONS
– Many heathen in the Old Testament believed in Jehovah
>Melchizedek ….. Ge 14:18-20
>Jethro….. Ex 18:9-12
> Nebuchadnezzar …. Da 4:34-37
> Ruth ….. Ru 1:16,17
> Rahab .. Jos 6:25; Heb 11:31
> Ninevites … Jonah
> woman of Zerapheth … IKi 17:8
> Naaman ….. 2Ki5:15
– God’s children testify to Him before the nations
> Joseph-Egyptians
> Elisha-Syrians
> Naomi-Moabites
> David-Philistines
> Moscs-Midianites
> Elijah- Phoenicians
> Solomon-Arabians
> Daniel-Babylonians
> the spies — Canaanites > Jonah — Assyrians
– People of every nation will be in the kingdom Da 7:14; Re 7:9,10
> God’s Spirit will be poured out on all flesh …. Joe 2:28
> the nations will desire God’s blessings Isa 2:2,3; 55:5,6
Isa 60:3; Zec 8:23
> John’s great vision of a kingdom full of people….. Re 5:9,l0;7:9,l0
c) JESUS, THE MESSIAH FOR ALL PEOPLES
– The four women of Jesus’genealogy are Gentiles . Mt l
>Tamar-Canaanite >Rahab-Canaanite >Ruth-Moabite > Bathsheba-Hittite
– Prophecies concerning Jesus (Luke)
> Zechariah’s prophecy … Lu 1:72-79
> Simeon’s blessing…. Lu 2:29-32
> the Angels’ announcement.. Lu 2:10,14
> John’s proclamation ….. Lu 3:4-6
– Jesus’ ministry as seen in Matthew
> Kings of East (perhaps China) come
to worship Him … … .. Mt 2:1-12
> begins ministry amo ng the Gentiles …. Mt 4:15-23
> told disciples to love their enemies Mt 5:44
> announces all nations are included in
His kingdom … … … … Mt 8:11
> prepares disciples to testify to the Gentiles ….. Mt 10:18
> ministry to the Gentiles prophesied ….. Mt 12:18-21
> only two people said to have great faith
Roman centurion . … Mt 8:10
Syrophenidan woman.Mt 15:28
> Jesus feeds 4000 Gentiles (Tyre/Sidonese) ….. Mt 15:29-39
> Kingdom to be taken from Israel, given
to Gentiles . Mt 21:42-43
> Kingdom to be preached to all people
before the end … … …. Mt 24:14
> disciples to be made from all nations .. Mt 28:19
d) MISSION AND THE BOOK OF ACTS
– The Baptism in the Holy Spirit: power to testify..
Ac 1:8; 4:7-10
> Jerusalem = locally
> Judea = regionally
> Samaria = across cultural, racial barriers
> To the uttermost parts of the earth – to all peoples
– The outpouring on Pentecost
> gift of tongues enabled 12 nations to hear
the truth … Ac 2:5-13
> Peter has new power and boldness to testify … Ac 2:14-40
> the Apostles begin to perform signs
and wonders . Ac 2:43,3:
> the Church experiences tremendous growth …. Ac 2:41; 4:4; 6:7
– Yet the Apostles still unwilling
> testifying on Pentecost to nations was
involuntary . Ac 2:5-13
> for 20 years didn’t take gospel outside Jerusalem.. Ac 5:28:6:7
> again involuntarily, God scatters them
via persecution … … … Ac 8:1-4
> finally, Philip preaches to foreigners voluntarily… Ac 8:4-17
> God confronts Peter’s unwillingness three times…. Ac 10:
> Peter meets opposition for this ..
Ac 11:1-18
> finally, the church leaders acknowledge missions.. Ac 15:
> by Paul’s death gospel reached whole Roman Empire
….. Ro 15:18-24
– The church in Antioch became first to SEND missionaries
….. Ac 13:1-4
– Paul became the first missionary of the Church …. Ac 13:1-4
– Acts records Paul’s 3 missionary journeys . Ac 13: -28:
– Acts strongly supports a team mission concept ….. Ac 16:2;20:4
3. GOSPEL-THE GOOD NEWS
The gospel (good news) is that Jesus has come. Jesus died on the cross for our sins to mend our broken relationship with God. Jesus is the Savior (deliverer) Who came to save (deliver) us from the penalty of sin (death) and the power of sin (bad habits and other bondages). Through faith in Him and the victory He won through His death, burial and resurrection, we arc reconciled to God. See ICo 15:1-4; Heb 2:14,15; Ro 3:21-26.
a) PRECONDITIONS TO THE GOSPEL
– see Fall of Man . Section D5
– see Sin … SectionDl
b) CONTENT
– Promised in the Old Testament Ro 1:2; 2 Pe 1:18-21
foretold … Ge 3:15; Isa 29:18; 41:27; 52:7; (61:1-3 with Lu 4:18,19)
– Jesus Christ is the fulfillment .. Ro 1:3-4
– God frees us from wrath through Christ …. 2Co 5:19
– Concerns Jesus Christ .. Ro 1:1-4
> born of a virgin …. Isa 7:14; Mt 1:23
> truly flesh, from King David’s line …. Ro 1:3-4; 2Ti 2:8; see B11
> truly the Son of God… Ro 1:4; see B7, B8
> lived a completely sinless life Heb 4:15
> crucified on the Roman cross Ac 2:23
> Christ died for our sins … ICo 15:3
> Jesus’ blood satisfied God Ac 20:28; Ro 5:9-11; Heb 9:14-15
> He was buried ICo 15:4
> resurrected from the dead. Ro 13-4; ICo 15:4; Ac 2:24
> appeared to many.. ICo 15:5-8
> ascended into heaven – glorified … Ac 1:9-11; IPe 1:21
> will come again as Judge .. 2Th 1:7-8; Ac 1:9-11
– Our part in responding to the Gospel
> we must confess Jesus is Lord. Ro 10:9
> we must believe God resurrected Him ….. Ro 10:9
> we must repent and be forgiven …. Ac 3:19; 5:31; Ro 2:4; 2Pe 3:9; Lu 24:47
c) CHARACTERISTICS OF THE GOSPEL
– Is the power of God to save us Ro 1:16; ICo 1:18; 15:1-2
– Shows the grace of God Ac 14:3;20:32
– Acceptance of the Gospel is associated with
> repentance.. Mk 1:15
> faith, needing to believe …. Mk 1:15; Heb 4:2
– First announced to Mary …. Lu 1:26-38
> Mary was a virgin . Lu 1:27,34
> Jesus was a child of the Holy Spirit …. Lu 1:35
– Announced to the shepherds …. Lu 2:8-20
– Brings peace …. Eph 6:15
– Brings hope Col 1:23;lPe 1:3
– Brings life .. 2Ti 1:10
– Is preached to everyone ….. Mk 16:15;Col 1:23;Ac 20:21
– Is absolute and exclusive…. Ga 1:8,9
– Is associated with
> sufferings … Mk8:35; 10:29,30; 2Ti 3:12
> healing.. Mt 4:23
> miracles as confirmation … Ac 14:3
d) PREACHING OF THE GOSPEL BY THE APOSTLES
– Peter > on Pentecost… … … Ac 2:14-41
> cripple is healed… .. Ac 3:11-26
>Sanhedrin….. Ac 4:8-12
> escape from prison.. Ac 5:29-32
– Stephen before the Sanhedrin … Ac 7:2-53
– Paul > at Antioch.. Ac 13:16-41 > in Athens….. Ac 17:22-31
> before Felix Ac 24:10-21 > before Agrippa.. Ac 26:2-29
4. THE GOSPEL, AS OUTLINED IN ROMANS
a) PRECONDITIONS
– Gospel was PROMISED in the Old Testament ….. Ro 1:2
– Because of ADAM, we all inherited death Ro5:12-14
– All arc under WRATH of God
> the GENTILE nations are under God’s wrath . Ro 1:18-32
> the JEWS are under God’s wrath… Ro 2:1-29
> Jews and Gentiles alike under SIN …
Ro 3:9
> all need to be SAVED because all have sinned ….. Ro3:23
– Purpose of the LAW was to point out sin…. Ro 7:7-25
– Gotpel is POWER OF GOD for salvation… Ro 1:16
b) COMPONENTS OF THE GOSPEL
– Concerns JESUS CHRIST, God’s Son Ro 13-4
> truly FLESH, from King David’s line . Ro 1:3-4
> truly the Son of God (DIVINE) ….. Ro 1:3-4
> RESURRECTED from the dead … Ro 13-4
> Jesus Christ if our LORD .. Ro 13-4
– Crucial clement for us is FAITH (believing) … Ro 1:53
> all people called to BELIEVE in Jesus ….. Ro 1:5-6
> a righteousness from God by FAITH . Ro 1:17
> a righteousness APART FROM THE LAW … Ro3:21
> this righteousness is by FAITH in Jesus…. Ro 3:22
> redemption is by God’s GRACE … Ro 3:24
> our part it to have Faith in His BLOOD …. Ro3:25
> saved by FAITH, not by law … Ro3:27-31
> Abraham was JUSTIFIED BY FAITH,
not by works … … … … Ro 4:1-25
> faith brings PEACE with God . Ro 5:1-2
> God will save us because of JESUS’ BLOOD.. Ro5.-9.11
> all depends on God’s MERCY, not our efforts Ro9:16
> salvation by grace, NOT WORKS Ro 11:5-6
c) CONTENT OF THE GOSPEL
– God’s LOVE while we were yet sinners ….. Ro5:8
> Christ died for us
– Our JUSTIFICATION came by Christ Jesus … Ro3:24
– Christ DIED for us while we were powerless.. Ro 5:6
– Christ ROSE from the dead Ro 145
– We must CONFESS Jesus is Lord. Ro 10:9
– We must BELIEVE God resurrected Him Ro 10:9
– We are to be BAPTIZED …. … … Ro 6:3-14
– God gives the HOLY SPIRIT to us Ro 5:5
– We are to TURN AWAY FROM SIN ..Ro 6:l-23
– Life in the Spirit and our ADOPTION Ro 8:1-17
– Prepared for the COMING OF THE LORD JESUS … … .. Ro l3:8-14
– We will all be JUDGED by God (not man) Ro l4:10
– Judging according to the GOSPEL . Ro 2:16
– LIVING and the DEAD are under His lordship Ro 14:9
– Future GLORIFICATION.. Ro 8:18-39
– Likely to SUFFER for our faith Ro 53
– Suffering works CHARACTER in us .. Ro5:3-4
– Jew or Gentile all SAVED similarly …. Ro 10:12-13
– ISRAEL will be saved when the fullness of the GENTILES have been saved Ro 11:25
– God’s intention is that ALL NATIONS believe Ro 16:26
5. THE GOSPEL AS OUTLINED IN EPHESIANS, PHILIPPIANS &
COLOSSIANS
a) GOSPEL
Eph
Php
Col
– Salvation is in the HEAVENLY realm .1:3 1:5
– Concerns Christ JESUS
> truly GOD ….2:6 … 1:15,2:9
>truly HUMAN..
2:7-8 ….. 2:9
– We were chosen and PREDESTINED in Christ …. 1:4,5,11
> BEFORE THE CREATION of the world 1:4
> to be HOLY and BLAMELESS in God’s sight .. 1:4
> to be ADOPTED as His sons through Jesus Christ.. l:5
> in accordance with HIS PLEASURE and will …. 1:5
> to the praise of His glorious GRACE …..… … 1:6,12
– In Jesus we have REDEMPTION through HIS BLOOD… 1:7 1:14
> the FORGIVENESS of sins … 1:7
> in accordance with the riches of His GRACE … 1:7
– Purpose – CHRIST AS FIRST in heaven & earth … … … .. 1:9-10
– We need to BELIEVE the gospel of truth .. 1:13
– Believers marked with HOLY SPIRIT 1:13
> as a deposit guaranteeing our INHERITANCE… 1:14.. 1:6
> full inheritance waits until the rest are saved 1:14 …. 1:12
– Christ’s RESURRECTION from death .1:19-21
– the same POWER works in believers … 1:18-19
> Christ is seated at the right hand of God… 1:20 … 2:9
– Christ is SUPREME ….. 1:22 . 2:9-11
> the Church is a BODY (not merely individuals).. 1:23 …. 1:18
– We were DEAD in our sins 2:1-3
> we followed the ways of the WORLD …. … .. 2:2 1:21
> we followed the ruler of the air (SATAN) …. 2:2
> we satisfied our SINFUL NATURE . 2:3
– We were under God’s WRATH 2:3
> God’s LOVE, MERCY & GRACE saves us… … . 2:4-9 . 2:1
> we are NOT SAVED BY OURSELVES OR
BY WORKS. 2:8-9
> GOOD WORKS were prepared for us in
advance .. 2:10
– BLOOD OF CHRIST reconciles us to God 2:11-13
– LAW OF MOSES IS ABOLISHED in Christ … … … . 2:15 … 3:9…. 2:14
> Jews and Gentiles are saved
THROUGH THE CROSS …. 2:16,17. … … … . 3:18.. 3:11
– GOD the FATHER is our destination …2:18
> CHRIST JESUS, the Son, made the way … … … .2:18
> SPIRIT leads us to the Father by Son’s way … … 2:18
– God lives in and among us by His Spirit …. 2:22
– WE WILL BE KEPT if we continue in our faith …. 1:21-23
– We also share in His SUFFERING ….. … … .1:29.. 1:24
– Christ Jesus is COMING AGAIN 1:6; 3-20… … … 3:4
– Our GLORIFICATION with JESUS …. 3:4; 1:27
6. FALSE GOSPELS
a) CHURCH HAS SAFEGUARDS AGAINST FALSE TEACHING
– Church ministry to protect believers …. Eph 4:11-16
– Fellowship of believers Heb 10:23-25
– Word of God (BIBLE) is truth Joh 17:17
> God’s Word is exalted even above His Name . Ps 138:2
> transgressors do not keep God’s Word ….. Ps 119:158
– Holy Spirit guides us… Isa 30:21; Pr 3:5-6; Joh 10:4; 16:12-13
– Be firm in the faith . 2Pe 3:17
b) GOD’S JUDGMENT ON FALSE TEACHERS
– Condemnation to those who teach falsely . Ga 1:8,9
c) FALSE TEACHERS
– Promise liberty but bring bondage . 2Pe 2:19; Ga 2:4
> falsehood does not satisfy . Isa 32:6
– Teach damnable heresies …. 2Pe 1:21-2:2
> and the people love it … Jer 5:31
– Have false visions and false prophecies ….. Jer 14:14-15; Jer 23:25-32
– Have false dreams … Jer 23:32; Zec 10:2
– Pretend to be Christians (sheep) ….. Mt 7:15; Ga 2:4; 2Pe 2:1-3
> watch people’s lives, not only words … Mt 7:16-20
– Sometimes do great signs and miracles Mt 24:24; Mk 13:22
– False apostles …. 2Co 11:13
– False teachers … 2Pe 2:1
– False prophets … La 2:14; Eze 13:1-23; IJo 4:1; Re 16:13; 19:20
> test for a false prophet De 13:1-3
– False brethren…. Ga 2:4; 2Co 11:26
– False Christs …. Mt 24:24; Mk 13:22
d) TYPE OF FALSE GOSPELS
– Some preach
> another Jesus …. 2Co 11:4; 2Jo 1:7
> another spirit …. 2Co 11:4
> another gospel .. 2Co 11:4; Ga 1:6-7; 2Ti 4:3-4
– Some teach a Christ-less gospel ….. 2Pe 2:1
> fables & genealogies … ITi 1:3-7; Heb 13:9
– human philosophy .. Col 2:8; Mt 15:9; Mk 7:7
> material science …. Col 2:8
– Some teach harsh treatment of the body….. Col 2:16-17
> not eating some foods .. Col 2:16-17,20-22
> mistreating the body … Col 2:23
– Sabbaths and special days .. Col 2:16
– Marriage is forbidden .. ITi 4:3
– Preaching for material gain.. … … 2Co 2:17;4:2
– Preached by ignorant people …..2Pe 3:16
– Worship of angels…. Col 2:18
– “Gospel” of law and religious works … Ga 3:1-5; Ac 15:24; ITi 4:3
– Special foods (water, oil, etc..) . Heb 13:9
– Idols Ro 1:18-23; Zec 10:2
– People deified…. Ro 1:23; Ac 12:22; 14:11; 28:6
– Demons worshiped . De 32:17; Ps 106:37; Re 9:20; 13:4
– False Gods and Goddesses
> Baal. Jdg 2:11-13
> Queen of heaven (Mother & Child) ….. Jer 44:17,25
> Tammuz (Child of Mother & Child) … Eze 8:14
> Many, many others..
– Heavens-sun, moon, stars .. De 4:19; 2Ki 17:16; Eze 8:16
7. CHURCH GOVERNMENT .
Overseers, elders and deacons are the three ministries appointed to see that the needs of the members of the local church are met.
a) GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS …. lPe5:l-4
– Fear God, TRUSTWORTHY, hate dishonest gain Ex 18:21
– MULTITUDE OF COUNSELORS brings safety .. Pr 11:14; 15:22; 24:6
– He who leads must be SERVANT of all….. Mk935; 10:42-45
– Must know the voice of God …. ICh 14:10-17
b) OVERSEER (BISHOP) QUALIFICATIONS
– Family concerns
> must not have more than one wife ITi 3:2
> must manage his family well .. ITi 3:4
> his children must be obedient.. ITi 3:4
– Character
> not overbearing ….. Tit 1:7
> self-controlled . Tit 1:8; ITi 3:2
> not violent, but gentle.. Tit 1:7; ITi 3:3
> not quick-tempered nor quarrelsome .. Tit 1:7; ITi 3:3
> disciplined, moderate in habits ….. Tit 1:8; ITi 3:2
– Reputation
> good reputation with outsiders ….. ITi 3:7
> blameless, above any reproach ….. Tit 1:7; ITi 3:2
> not given to much wine …. Tit 1:7; ITi 3:3
> careful with money ….. Tit 1:7; ITi 3:3
> hospitable .. Tit 1:8; lTi3:2
> upright, respectable ….. Tit 1:8; lTi3:2
– Ministry Abilities
> loves what is good Tit 1:8
> holy ….. Tit 1:8
> must firmly believe the truth .. Tit 1:9
> must not be a recent convert … ITi 3:6
> must be able to teach .. Tit 1:9 ITi 3:2
c) ELDERS
– Term seems to refer to all the leadership of the local church
> apostles and elders in the Jerusalem church….. Ac 15:2,4,6,22
> Paul sends for elders of Ephesus
(presumably these are all of the leaders) Ac 20:17
> Peter is an apostle and elder … IPe 5:1
> the saints, the overseers and deacons .. Php 1:1
– Qualifications same as for overseer ….. Tit 1:6-9
> “overseer” and “elder” used interchangeably here
– Elders direct the affairs of the church .. lTi5:17
– Elders are supported by the church ITi 5:17
> especially teachers
– Some of the elders teach and preach … lTi5:17
– The elders of the church pray for the sick . Jas5:14
– Appointed (Ordained)
> by the apostles. Ac 14:23
> with prayer and fasting Ac 14:23
> in every church, in every town Ac 14:23; Tit 1:5
> Titus was to appoint elders ….. Tit 1:5
d) DEACONS (ATTENDANT, SERVANT)
– One of the categories of leadership ….. Php 1:1
– It is a very honorable position . lTi3:8-13
– Qualifications similar to overseers ITi 3:8-12
– Possibly these are the original 7 deacons … Ac6:l-7
8. CORRECTION & FORGIVENESS
a) CHURCH DISCIPLINE
– Apostle Paul disciplines unrepentant sinners
…. ICo 5:1-5; 2Co 12:19-21; 2Co 13:2; 2Co 13:10; ITi 1:20
– Warn a divisive person twice, then separate him…. Tit 3:10
> if be does not repent, separate him from the church
– Cause of leadership quarrel Mt 20:20-28
> strive for supreme position like unbelievers …. Mk 10:42-45
> a true church leader is a servant….. Mk 9:35; 10:42-45
– Discipline of a church leader
> at least 2 witnesses are required … ITi 5:19
> if sin, rebuked publicly so others are warned . ITi 5:20
– 2 or more witnesses needed Nu 35:30; Mt 18:16; 2Co 13:1; ITi 5:19
– Careful not to be tempted by sin of those being helped… .. Ga 6:1
Note:
The goal of all church discipline is never to condemn, but to restore. Therefore, discipline must be motivated by love toward the fallen, that his soul might be saved (ICo
5:5), and must not be so harsh as to cause excessive sorrow (2Co 2:5-11).
b) RULE OF LOVE
– Old Testament rule-eye for an eye (no excess) Ex 21:24; De 19:21
– Love your enemies ..Mt 5:43-45; Lu 6:27; Ro 12:20; ITh 5:15
> pray for those who persecute you .. Mt 5:44
> Examples: Jesus and Stephen . Lu 23:34; Ac 7:59-60
– Reaffirm our love for fallen brethren … 2Co 2:8
– The importance of rebuking sin in love Re 3:19; Pr 27:5,6; Job 5:17,18
c) RULE OF FORGIVENESS
– Forgive in the same way as you want forgiveness Mt 6:14; 18:22-35; Mk 11:25; Eph 4:32
– Rebuke and, if repentance, then forgive ….. Lu 17:3-4
– Joseph forgives his brothers …. Ge 45:15; 50:15-21
d) RULE OF NO CONDEMNATION
– Don’t condemn, you’ll be condemned the same way…. Mt 7:1-5
> we are to discern between good and evil … Mt 7:15-20
– Don’t be judgmental ….. Ro 14:13; ICo 8:7-13
> rather, set no stumbling block for your brother
c) PROPER PERSONAL RELATIONS OF GREAT IMPORTANCE
– First the natural, then the spiritual . ICo 15:46
– Before we minister to the Lord
> first our earthly relationships must be right Mt 5:23-26
> first our relationships, then prayer to God . Mk 11:25
– Procedure for a brother who sins against you …Mt 18:15-18
> Note: it doesn’t say “annoys you” but “sins against you”
> go to him alone and try to win him
> if no resolution, take 1 or 2 others with you
> if no resolution, take him before the church
> if no resolution, he must be put outside the church
– Forgive, forgive, forgive ….. Mt 18:21-22; Lu 17:4; Col 3:13
> be reconciled before night comes .. Eph 4:26
– Husband – wives, so prayers are not hindered . IPe 3:7
– A man of wisdom overlooks an offense ….. Pr 19:11
f) REPROOF OR CORRECTION
– Word of God is our standard … 2Ti 4:2; Tit 2:13-15
– He who listens to a wise rebuke is helped .. Pr 25:12
– He who is stiff-necked is destroyed Pr29:l
– Peter reproved by Jesus. Mk 8:33
– 11 rebuked for disbelieving His resurrection … Mk 16:14
– The Lord rebukes His sons . Heb 12:5; Re 3:19
> proves that we are legitimate sons . Heb 12:5-8
> is good for us, producing holiness . Heb 12:10
> never pleasant but bears fruit of righteousness Heb 12:11
9. GIFTED PEOPLE IN THE CHURCH UNIVERSAL
Eph 4:11-17
a) PURPOSE OF THE 5-FOLD MINISTRY
– To prepare God’s people for service …. Eph 4:12
– To unify the faith of God’s people.. Eph 4:13
– To mature the people spiritually …. Eph 4:13
– To protect against false doctrine …. Eph 4:14
b) APOSTLE: Founder of local churches (more than an evangelist)
– Jesus first and greatest Apostle Heb 3:1
– Apostles empowered to do miracles …. Mt 10:1; Mk 16:20; Lu 9:1; Ac 2:43
– Were ordinary men Ac 4:13; Mt 4:18
– Called by God, Jesus, Holy Spirit .. ICo l:l;Ac20:24; 13:2,4
– The twelve were for Jewish Church, Israel Mt 10:5,6; 19:28; Lu 22:30
– Ascension Apostles for the Gentile Church …. Eph 4:11,12
> Were foundational (supporting, not ruling) …. Eph 2:20; Re 21:14
> Paul ….. ICo 9:1; 2Co 1:1
> Barnabas … Ac 14:14
> Andronicus Ro 16:7
> Junias (a woman apostle) Ro 16:7
> Silvanus …. ITh 1:1; 2:6
> Timothy …. ITh 1:1; 2:6
> Titus …. 2Co 8:23
> James, the Lord’s brother Ga 1:19
> Others .. ICo 9:5
– Authority to correct the Church ICo 5:3-5; 2Th 3:6
– Apostles teach, preach, evangelize . Ac 2:42; ITi 2:7; 2Ti 1:11; Acts
> appointing local leadership Ac 14:23
– Paul’s life as an apostle . ICo 4:9-21; 2Co 11:21-12:13
– False apostles …. 2Co 11:13-15
> see False Gospels … Section F6
c) PROPHET (sec Prophesying).. Section F10
– Jesus Christ Chief Prophet… De 18:15; Ac 3:22
> example of Jesus’ prophetic ministry .. Mt 24:1-51; Mk 10:32-34
– Spoke by the influence of the Holy Spirit… Lu 1:67; 2Pe 1:21
– Required to speak all of and only what God spoke ….. Eze 3:10; De 18:20
– Prophets and teachers in church at Antioch Ac 13:1
– Prophets:
> Agabus, Anna .. Ac 11:28; 21:10; Lu 2:36
> Judas and Silas . Ac 15:32
> Paul, Peter, John prophesy about false prophets … ITi 4,1
– Others can prophesy as well
> Joel, your sons and daughters will prophesy .. Joe 2:28
> Philip’s Daughters .. Ac 21:9
– False Prophets to increase at end times Mt 24:11,24; 2Pe 2:1-2; Re (all)
> prophesy lies in Jesus’ Name…. Jer 14:14
> see False Gospels … Section F6
Note: Not all who prophesy are prophets (ICo 14:31,32). The office of prophet carries with it the divine ability to know the future at times (e.g. Agabus) and to perceive what God is doing and thereby give direction to the Church (Ac 13:1).
d) EVANGELIST – Proclaimer of the Gospel of Jesus
– Jesus as the great Evangelist ….. Mk 1:14; Lu 4:43
– Philip the evangelist led by the Holy Spirit ….. Ac 8:26-39; 21:8
– Philip the evangelist preached Jesus …. Ac 8:35
– Paul exhorts Timothy to evangelism …. 2Ti4:5
– Philip as an example
> one of the seven ….. Ac6:5 > preached in Samaria ….. Ac 8:5
> led of the Spirit (angel)… … … Ac8:26 > preached to the Ethiopian… … Ac8:26-30
> first served faithfully as deacon ….. Ac 6:5
e) PASTOR (SHEPHERD) One who cares for the people
– “Shepherd” is used mainly in relation to Jesus IPe 2:25; 5:1-4
> Jesus as Good Shepherd …. Heb 13:20; Joh 10:11,14; IPe 2:25
> there shall be one fold and one Shepherd .. Joh 10:16; Heb 13:20
– Shepherd contrasted with a hireling ….. Joh 10:12
– People need a shepherd Mt 9:36; Mk 6:34
– The one and only reference to “pastor” in Epistles Eph 4:11
– God promises the Church pastors … Jer 3:15
– Pastor keeps flock together.. Eze 34:5
– Lead the flock primarily through example IPe 5:3
– Are willing to lay down their lives for the sheep .. Joh 10:11
– Are told to feed the flock of God (Church) Ac 20:28
f) TEACHER – One who is gifted to teach the Word of God
– Jesus as teacher . Mt 4:23
– Prophets and teachers in church at Antiocb Ac 13:1
– Not many should be teachers …. Jas 3:1
– Paul taught in Antioch, Corinth, Rome. Ac 11:26;15:35;18:11;28:31
– Apollos taught before the Holy Spirit …Ac 18:25
> after he was better informed …. Ac 18:26
– Elders must be able to teach Tit 1:9
– Requires STUDY to be able to teach well .. 2Ti2:15
– False teachers, see False Gospels .. SectionF6
10. SPIRITUAL GIFTS IN THE BODY OF CHRIST
a) LIST OF SPIRITUAL ACTIVITIES WITHIN
THE CHURCH BODY… Ro 12:3-8
– All gifts are according to God’s grace .. Ro 12:6
– All gifts should be ministered with love …. ICo 13:1-13
– Eagerly desire spiritual gifts …. ICo 14:1
b) PROPHESYING
– According to his faith … Ro 12:6
– Because the Lord has spoken ….Am 3:8
– By the Holy Spirit…. Lu 1:67; 2Pe 1:21
– Seek especially to prophesy ….. ICo 14:1
– To edify, exhort, comfort…. ICo 14:3
– Serves the believer, not unbeliever. ICo 14:22
– All may prophesy, one by one.. ICo 14:31
– Other judge the words of the prophets ..ICo 14:29
– Tongues and interpretation equal prophecy ….. ICo 14:5
– Must not be forbidden ICo 14:39; ITh 5:20
– Someone should be available to interpret… ICo 14:27
– See Prophet as a specially gifted person …. Section P9
c) SERVING . Ro 12:7
– Distribution of food Ac 6:l-7
– Dorcas with sewing Ac 9:39
– Good service is rewarded by God .. Mt 25:19-23,34-36
> bad service is punished Mt 25:24-30,41-46
– Jesus as our example …..Mt 20:28; Php 2:7
> Jesus washes the disciples’ feet Joh 13:1-17
– Should serve as unto the Lord, not unto men … Eph 6:5-7; Col 3:22-23
d) TEACHING…. Ro 12:7
– See Teacher as a specially gifted person … Section F9
– See qualifications of Elders, Overseers ….. Section F7
– A mature Christian ought to begin to teach ….. Heb 5:12-14
– Older women should teach the younger ones .. Tit 2:3-5
– Parents arc told to teach their children De 6:7; Pr 4:1-9; Eph 6:4
– Teaching commanded in the Great Commission … Mt 28:20
c) ENCOURAGING Ro 12:8
– Barnabas called Son of Encouragement….. Ac 4:36-37
– Moses as encourager …. Ex 14:13-14
– Jesus encourages Paul in prison ….. Ac 23:11
– Lord’s coming encourages us regarding death . ITh 4:13-18
– We should encourage one another daily …. Heb 3:12,13
f) GIVING
– With generosity Ro 12:8
– See Giving – Tithes and Offerings . Section G8
– Barnabas sold a field and gave to the church… Ac 4:34-37
– False giving – Ananias & Sapphira Ac 5:1-11
g) LEADERSHIP
– With diligence .. Ro 12:8
– Pear God, hate covetousness, love the truth …. Ex 18:21
– Leader is the servant of all . Mt 20:26
– See Government for overall church leadership Section F7
– Sec Church Government ….. Section F7
– See also False Teachers SectionF6
h) MERCY (COMFORT)
– Cheerfully…. Ro 12:8
– To those in distress . Lu 10:37
– To the poor…Pr 14:31
– To the backslider …. Lu 15:18-20; 2Co 2:6-8
– Comfort others with the comfort we’ve received…. 2Co 13-7
– Mercy and truth are associated . Ps 25:10; 85:8-10
– Mercy and true judgment are associated …. Zec 7:9; Mt 23:23
– Mercy rejoices over judgment .. Jas 2:13
– Mercy and forgiveness are associated
> God’s mercy and forgiveness to those who love Him..
…. Ex 34:7; Nu 14:18; Ps 86:5; Da 9:9
> God shows us mercy in the same way we show others mercy..
… . Mt 6:12-15; Mk 11:25-26; Lu 637-38; 11:4; Eph 4:32; Col 3:13
> to be generous in forgiving others Mt 18:21; Lu 17:3-4
> Gospel is a message of mercy and forgiveness ….. Ac 13:38; 26:18
11. SPIRITUAL GIFTS IN CHURCH MEETINGS
a) 1 Co 12:1-26
Description of various SPIRITUAL GIFTS that function when the church body MEETS, in order to allow God to minister to the needs of people attending the meeting.
b) INTRODUCTION
– Pagans are led by dumb idols… ICo 12:2
– The Spirit of God gives us discernment …. lCol2:l-3
> the Spirit of God never curses Jesus … ICo 123
> the Spirit of God affirms Jesus is Lord ….. ICo 123
– One Spirit, one Lord, one God ICo 12:4-6
– Spiritual gifts arc to benefit of the Church. ICo 12:7,25-26
– Each person has some Spiritual gifting ICo 12:7
– The Church is a unit ICo 12:12
– In many ways we are all alike
> all baptized by one Spirit (Holy Spirit) ….. ICo 12:13
> all belong to one Body (Church of Jesus) . ICo 12:13
– We have different functions …. ICo 12:14-26
> differences are necessary .. ICo 12:19-20
> we all depend on each other … ICo 12:21-26
> they must all work together for unity .. ICo 12:25
c) DIFFERENT SPIRITUAL GIFTS –
d) THREE SPEAKING GIFTS
– Ability to speak in tongues . lCol2:10
> Pentecost …. Ac 2:4
> Gentile believers, Cornelius….. Ac 10:46
> We note three types of this gift:
tongues as a sign to unbelievers… ICo 14:22; Ac 2:4ff
tongues as personal prayer language ICo 14:18
tongues spoken publicly (and interpreted) in church… … … . ICo 14:19
– Ability to interpret these tongues…. ICo 12:10
> see under Prophecy. see below
– Prophecy ….. ICo 12:10
> seek especially to prophesy …. ICo 14:1-5
> see Prophesying Section F10
> is imperfect until Christ comes ….. ICo 13:9
> should be judged … ICo 14:29
> upbuilds, encourages and consoles ….. ICo 143
c) THREE KNOWING (revelation) GIFTS
– Word of Knowledge …. ICo 12:8
> Supernatural knowledge of information
> Jesus has unexpected knowledge … Joh 1:47-50; 4:17-18
> Peter has unexpected knowledge … Ac 53; 8:23
– Word of Wisdom …. ICo 12A
> Supernatural wisdom for a situation
> Jesus uses supernatural wisdom …. Mt 21:25-27; 22:17-22
– Ability to distinguish spirits ….. 1Col2:10
> Paul and the slave girl… Ac 16:16-18
f) THREE POWER (action) GIFTS
– Faith. ICo 12:9
> Believing God for the impossible
> Jesus and-the fig tree … Mt 21:19-22
> Paul and shipwreck Ac 27:21-26
– Gifts of healing ICo 12:9
> imparting God’s healing to the sick
> Jesus, see Healings Section B9,12
> Peter & John …. Ac 3:6-10
– Power to do miracles … ICo 12:10
> see miracles of Jesus …. Section B9
> see miracles of Apostles …. Section P9
12. SPIRITUAL GROWTH
a) GOAL IS SPIRITUAL MATURITY
– Rooted and established with Christ in our hearts .. Eph 3:17-19
– Path of the righteous grows brighter and brighter . Pr 4:18
– To be able to distinguish between good and evil ….Heb 5:14
b) EXHORTATION TO MATURITY
– Stop being like children ….. ICo 14:20
– Grow up in your salvation . IPe 2:2
– By now you ought to be teachers … Heb 5:12
– Jealousy & quarreling says you are still infants ….. ICo 3:1-4
c) THINGS THAT MAKE US GO BACKWARDS
– No leadership – Moses on the mountain….. Ex 32:1-8
– Bad company-Solomon’s wives …. lKi 11,4
> bad company corrupts good morals …. ICo 15:33
– Worldly success-Amaziah .. 2Ch 25:2-14
– Actions of Satan ….. Lu 8:12
– Trialsoflife .. Lu8:13
– Love of the world – Demas Lu 8:14; 2Ti 4:10
d) GROWTH DEPENDS ON OUR OBEDIENCE TO GOD
– Jesus learned obedience by what He suffered . Heb 5:8-10
– Jesus did only what He saw the Father doing .. Joh5:19
– Obedience to God leads to righteousness .. Ro6:16
– Obedience to God leads to holiness ….. IPe 1:14-16
– Obedient thought-life is spiritual victory … 2Co 10:4-5
– Our obedience leads us to the good of the land Isa l:19
e) AREAS OF SPIRITUAL GROWTH AND GUIDANCE
– Through the Bible-Word of God to us
> hearing the Word of God brings spiritual blessing… … Re 1:3
> reading the Word of God brings spiritual blessing… .. Re 1:3
> learn the Word of God to avoid sin …. Ps 119:9-11
> meditate on the Word of God to gain wisdom Jos 1:8; Ps 119:99
– Prayer-Talking with God
> worship God for Who He is …. Ps29:2
> confess our weakness and sins . IJo 1:9
> thank Him for help in the past Eph 5:20; ITh 5:18
> make our requests known to Him . Php 4:6
– Fellowship – the Church helps us
> we help each other (sharpen each other) .. Pr 27.17
> Jesus gathers with those gathered in His Name ….. Mt 18:20
> don’t neglect fellowship, especially near the end .. Heb 10:24-25
> Church ministries given for our help .. Eph 4:11-14
– Ministry – we help others
> we help others as we’ve been helped .. De 16:17; 2Co 1:4
> physical helps show God’s love through us …. Jas 2:15-17
> testifying helps us understand God’s goodness …. Phm 1:6
> testifying helps us be overcomers Re 12:11
> we are to preach the gospel to all nations . Mt 24:14; Mk 16:15
f) CONDITIONS FOR BEARING SPIRITUAL FRUIT
– See Fruit of the Spirit … Section Gl
– We must dwell with Christ and Christ in us …. Joh 15:5
– Die to the old nature to be spiritually alive ….. Joh 12:24
– Must have understanding of the Word we hear Mt 13:23
