Growing in Christ is a transformative journey that involves deepening one’s relationship with Jesus and embracing the principles of faith in daily life.
This process requires intentional spiritual growth through prayer, scripture study, and fellowship with other believers, fostering a deeper understanding of God’s character and His purpose for our lives.
As individuals mature spiritually, they begin to reflect Christ’s love, grace, and compassion in their interactions with others, allowing their faith to influence their thoughts, words, and actions. This maturity not only strengthens personal conviction but also equips believers to serve others, contribute to their communities, and spread the Gospel.
Here are topical concordance to help you.
1. FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
a) LOVE .. Ga 5:22
– GOD IS LOVE . 1John 4:8
– God showed His love by sending Jesus. … … … ….. 1John 4:9
– He who has been forgiven much loves much … Lu 7:42
– Wonderful reward for those who love God ….. ICo 2:9;Ro 8:28
– Passage about the character of love ICo 13:1-13
– Love of God and love of neighbor is primary .. Lu 10:27- De 6:5; Ro 13:8-10; Ga 5:14; Jas 2:8; IJo 4:20-21
> we are to love even our enemies …. Mt 5:44-46; Lu 6:27-35
– Love is the evidence of being Jesus’ disciple .. Joh 13:35
– Love is associated with discipline .. Re 3:19
– Love is associated with obedience to God . Joh 14:15,23-2Jo 1-6
– Love grows with knowledge of God…. Phpl:9
– There is no fear in perfect love. IJo 4:18; 2Ti 1:7
– Love is part of our spiritual Armour …. ITh 5:8
– There should be great love in the family …. Eph 5-25-33- Tit 2-4
– Things we should NOT love
> money . ITi 6:10
> this present world system ….. IJo 2:15-17
> high social position ….. Lu 11:43; Mk 12:38
> praise of men .. Mt 6:5
b) JOY….. Ga 5:22
– Jesus was abundantly joyful …. Ps45:7
> because He loved righteousness and hated sin Heb 1:9
> because people are saved … Lu 15:4-7
– Jesus endured the cross because of future joy . Heb 12:2
> bringing many sons to glory …. Heb 2:10
– Jesus’ ministry was to bring joy. Joh 17:12-13
-. Angels rejoice when a sinner repents .. Lu 15:10
– The heavenlies rejoiced at creation Job 38:7
– Jesus’ abiding in us gives us His kind of joy …. Joh 15:10-11
– Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy . Ro 14:17
– God’s will is that we rejoice ….. Php 4:4; ITh 5:16
– Joy of the Lord is our strength .. Ne 8:10; Col 1:10,11
> earthly joy is temporary ….. Job 20:4,5
– God is our great joy Ps43:4
> joy comes from the Holy Spirit ….. ITh 1:6; Ro 15:13;Ac 13:52
– We rejoice in our salvation Lu 10:17-20; Isa 12:3; 25:9; Ps 51:8-12
> we’ll have joy with God Mt 25:21; Jude 1:24; Php 2:16; Ps 16:11
> great joy at Jesus’ second comi ng.. Joh 16.20-22
– Joy in the midst of suffering …. 2Co 8:2; Isa 29:19; Col 1:24; Ro 5:3; Heb 10:34; Jas 1:2; 1Pe 1:4-7;4:13; Lu 6:22,23; Ps 30:5; 126:5
– Joy is associated with
> singing Zep3:14-17;Ps27:6;67:4;Isa 65:14
> shouting … … … …. Ps 98:4; 100:1; 132:9,16
> dancing Jer 31:13
> music…. Job 21:12; Ps 98:6
> God’s Word ….. Ps 119:162
> prayer .. Isa 56:7; Php 1:4
> thanksgiving …. Isa 51:3
> righteousness… Pr 29:2,6; 28:12
> labor Ec 3:22; 5:19
> health .. Isa 66:14
> love relationship with spouse . Ca 1:4; Ec 9:9; Pr 5:18
– Joy not taken away from us broblems . Ps 51:8;126:5; Isa 51:11
c) PEACE …. Ga 5:22
-God is the God of’ peace ….. 1Th 5:23; 2Th3:16
Heb 13:20
> God is not author of confusion. lCo14:33
-Gospel is gospel of peace….. Ac 10:36; Ro 10:15; Eph 2:14; 6:15
> salvation brings peace with God … Ro 5:1
– Wisdom from heaven is peace-loving . Jas 3:17
– Peace increases with our understanding of God …. 2Pe 1:2
– Peacemakers will be called children of God …. Mt 5:9
– A spiritually minded believer is at peace … Ro 8.6
– Peace of God passes understanding ….. Joh 14:27; Php 4:7
> peace in middle of tribulation . Joh 16:33
> peace is to rule our hearts . Col 3:15
– Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy . Ro 14:17
– Spiritual peace comes from Jesus .. Joh 14:27
> in spite of tribulation … Joh 16:33
– We are kept in peace if concentrate on Jesus … Isa 26:3
-Believers are to follow peace….. 2Co 13:11
Eph 4:3; 1Pe 3:11
> with all men …. Ro 12:18; 14:19; Heb 12:14; 1Th 5:13
d) PATIENCE …. Ga 5:22
– God is a God of patience … Ro 15:5
– Job as an example of patience .. Jas 5:11
– Paul’s character shows patience ….. 2Ti 3:10
– Church leaders must be patient. lTi 3:3; 6.11, 2Ti 2:24
– Older men should be patient …. Tit2:2
– Patience is better than pride ….. Ec 7:8
– Need patience in midst of troubles Ro 12:12
> tribulation produces patience .. Ro 5:3; 12:12; Jas 1:3
– Need to wait patiently for the Lord’s return ….. Jas 5:7-8
> patiently continue to do good . Ro 2:7;15:4; Heb 12:1
– Need patience to be mature in the Spirit …. Jas 1:4; Lu 8:15
– Need patience to inherit the promise … Heb 10:16,36
– Ephesus, Thyatria & Philadelphia show patience . Re 2:2-3; 19; 3:10
– At end times, great patience needed …. Re 1:9; 13:10:14:12
– In patience we possess our soul ….. Lu21:19
e) KINDNESS …. Ga5:22
– God is a God of kind ness …. 2Co 10:1; Tit 3:4; Joh 4:3-26; Joe 2:13
> His kindness is everlasting Isa 54:8
– God’s wisdom is kind…..Jas 3:17
– Love is kind. 1Co 13:4
– All believers should be kind ….. Col 3:12
– Kindness linked with forgiving one another …. Eph 4:32
– Character of leader in the Church … 2Ti 2:24; Tit 3:2
– Character of Paul….. 2Co 6:6; 1Th 2:7
– Character of a good woman Pr 3l:26
f) GOODNESS…. Ga5:22; Eph 5:9
– Major characteristic of God Ex 33:19; 34:6; Ps 107:8; 144:2
> the Lord is good, take refuge in Him Ps 34:8
> we see His goodness now in this life ….. Ps 27:13
> we will see His goodness in the future .. Ps 31:19
> see the Goodness of God . Section B5
– We should repay evil with good …. Lu 6:27; Ro 12:20-21
– God’s goodness leads us to repentance.. Ro 2:4
– Believers should rejoice in goodness … 2Ch 6:41
> satisfied with goodness of God’s house ….. Ps 65:4
> we should be full of goodness . Ro 15:14
g) FAITHFULNESS . Ga5:22
– God is a faithful God …. De 7:9; Ps 36:5; 1Co 1:9, 1Pe 4:19; Re 19:11
> if we are faithless, He remains faithful 2Ti 2:13
– Faithful servants of God
> Abraham …. Ga 3:9
> Moses .. Nu 12:7; Heb 3:5
> Daniel .. Da 6:4
> Paul 1Ti 1:12
– Faithful person
> reverences God ….. Ne 7:2
> keeps a confidence Pr 11:13
> does not lie. Pr 14:5
> is rare to find …. Pr 20:6
– Faithfulness in small things brings big reward . Lu 19:17
– Faithfulness to God even to death brings life … Re 2:10
– God is looking for faithful stewards 1Co 4:2
> character of leaders 1Ti 3:11; 2Ti 2:2; Tit 1:6,9
> they will be rewarded .. Mt 24:45; 25:21,23; Lu 12:42
> faithful in little, then much Lu 16:10; 19:17
> faithful in natural, the n spiritual things ….. Lu 16:11
> faithful with another’s things, then your own .. Lu 16:12
h) GENTLENESS (MEEKNESS) …. Ga 5:23; Eph 4:2; Col 3:12
– Jesus is meek….. Mt 11:29; 21:5; 2Co 10:1
– Wisdom from above is gentle … Jas 3:17
– Paul is meek lCo 4:21
– Moses is meek… Nu 12:3
– Characteristic of a leader in the Church …. 1Ti 3:3;6:11;2Ti 2:25; Tit 3:2
> sign of a spiritual person …. Jas 3:13; 1Pe 3:4,15
– Apostles were gentle among the people …. 1Th 2:7
– We should receive the Word of God meekly .. Jas 1:21
– We should counsel sinners meekly. Ga 6:1
— Blessing to the meek
> shall be satisfied ….. Ps 22:26
> shall be guided by God Ps25:9
> shall inherit the earth…. Ps 37:11; Mt 5:5
> shall be saved by God… Ps 76:9; 149:4
> shall be exalted by God …. Ps 147:6
> shall increase their joy in God . Isa 29:l9
> shall hear the gospel….. Isa 61:1
> shall be hidden in day of judgment Zep 2:3
i) SELF-CONTROL (TEMPERANCE) Ga5:23
– Better a man with self-control tha n a warrior .. Pr 16:32
– Paul preached righteousness, self-control and judgment… Ac 24:25
– Control of the tongue a great challenge ….. Jas3:2
– Control of the lusts of the flesh ….. Ro 6:12-13
– We should add self-control to our faith ….. 2Pe 1:5,6
j) OTHER PASSAGES REGARDING SPIRITUAL GROWTH
– 2Pe 1:5-7… .. + faith + goodness + knowledge + self-control
+ perseverance + godliness + kindness + love
– Ro 14:17….. Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy.
– Heb 6:1-2… repentance, faith, baptisms, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, eternal judgment
– 1Ti 6:11. righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness
2. WATER BAPTISM
Water baptism is the ceremony that celebrates the entrance of a believer into the community of the Church. Its significance is substantial but not sufficient in itself to save
a person. To be saved requires God’s grace, our faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection, and a continued walk of obedience to God. Water baptism is likened unto circumcision whereby we proclaim our identification with a group of people, the Church of God.
a) OLD TESTAMENT TYPES
– Ark in the Hood ….. 1Pe3:20-21
> Note: The RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST saves us, not water baptism.
– Circumcision …. Col 2:11-12
> Note: It is FAITH IN GOD that saves us, not water baptism.
> The cloud and Red Sea ….. 1Co 10:2
b) JOHN THE BAPTISTS FORM OF BAPTISM
– Announced the Holy Spirit baptism by Jesus .. Mt 3:11; Mk 1:8; Lu 3:16
– Announced salvation and God’s wrath to come …. Mt 3:12; Lu 3:17
– Prepared people to accept Jesus ….. Lu 7:29-30, Joh 1:23
– People confessed their sins Mt 3:6; Mk 1:5
– Repentance for the forgiveness of sins Ac 13:24; Mk 1:4; Lu 3:3
– Comparison John’s and Christian baptism.. Ac 18:25; 19:4-7
c) JESUS IS BAPTIZED BY JOHN
– To fulfillall righteousness .. Mt 3:15
– Spirit of God descended on Jesus .. Mt 3:16; Mk 1:10; Lu 3:22
– God affirms Jesus as His Beloved Son . Mt 3:17, Mk 1:11; Lu 3:22
– Is followed by Jesus’ temptation …. Mt 4:1; Mk 1:12; Lu 4:1
d) SIGNIFICANCE OF CHRISTIAN WATER-BAPTISM
– Baptized into Jesus and His death . Ro 6:3
– Buried with Him and risen with Him .. Col 2:12
– By one Spirit into one Body ….. 1Co 12:13
– Clothed with Christ.. Ga 3:27
– Good conscience towards God 1Pe 3:21
e) TEACHING PASSAGE … Ro 6:l-14
– Our salvation is by God’s grace … … … Ro 6:l
– God’s free gift leads us to say “no” to sin .. Ro 6:2,12
– In baptism we identify with Christ Jesus
> His death (crucified) …. Ro 6:3,6
> His burial … Ro 6:4
> His resurrection Ro 6:4-5
> His new life … … Ro 6:4,8,11
> His freedom from sin … Ro 6:6,7,11-23
> His obedience to God.. Ro 6:10
– A change of masters: from sin to God .. Ro 6:11-14
f) EXAMPLES
– The believers after Pentecost …. Ac 2:41
– Converts in Samaria Ac 8:12
– The Ethiopian Eunuch Ac 8:38
– Saul (Paul) after his conversion Ac 9:18
– Lydia, seller of purple cloth Ac 16:15
– Philippian Jailer and his household Ac 16:33
– Believers in Corinth Ac 18:8
– Disciples in Ephesus ….. Ac 19:5
g) WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED?
– Only believers are to receive Christian Baptism
> believing (Faith) comes before baptism …. Mk 16:16; Ac 2:41; 18:8
> repentance comes before baptism .. Ac 2:38
> preach, believe, baptized, saved …. Mk 16:16
> repent, baptized, forgiven. Holy Spirit ….. Ac 2:38
> preach. Holy Spirit, baptism …. Ac 10:44-48
– Infants seem to have a special place in God’s view
> Note: The order is always believe and then be baptized.
> Note: Baptizing infants is not mentioned in the Scriptures.
> their angels in heaven always see the face
of My Father … … … . Mt 18:10
> young children are sanctified by a believing
parent 1Co 7:14
> rather young children should be dedicated to the Lord and blesse
….. Ex 13:2;Mk 10:16
> When they come to an age of accountability (know to choose good and refrain from evil) they can believe and be baptized. Isa 7:15,16
h) WHEN ARE THEY BAPTIZED?
– Repent and be baptized . Ac 2:38
– Those who accepted his message were baptized …. Ac 2:41
– When they believed, they were baptized …. Ac 8:12
> both men and women
– Ethiopian was baptized as soon as he believed Ac 8:36-38
– Cornelius ordered to be baptized … Ac 10:47-48
> as soon as the Holy Spirit came upon them
– Philippian jailer was baptized immediately ….. Ac 16:31-34
> and all his family
– Bible does not mention any delay before baptizing a Believer.
i) HOW ARE THEY BAPTIZED?
– Commanded by Jesus
> in the Name of Father, Son & Holy Spirit . Mt 28:19
– As practiced by the Apostles
> in the Name of Jesus Christ ….. Ac 2:38; 10:48
> into the Name of the Lord Jesus …. Ac 8:16; 19:5
> baptized into Christ Jesus .. Ro 63; Ga 3:27
– Form of baptism is determined by being BURIED Ro 6:4
> Jesus came out of the water ….. Mk 1:10
> Because there was much water there … Joh 3:23;Ac 8:36-39
> Note: Baptism as practiced in Bible times was by total immersion of the believer. This fulfills the analogy of burial.
j) OTHER CONCERNS
– Baptism in water and in the Holy Spirit are different
> water baptism is not the same as being baptized
in the Holy Spirit. Ac 8:16
– Comparison John’s and Christian baptism… Ac 18:25; 19:4-7
3. LORD’S SUPPER-COMMUNION-BREAKING OF BREAD
Just as Baptism is the initiation of the person into the Church, the Lord’s Supper is the continuation of that identity with the Church by the believer. It is the primary way we are reminded of God’s commitment to, and covenant with His people, through Christ.
a) FORESHADOWING
– Melchizedek ….. Ge 14:18-20
> bread and wine identified him as priest….. Ge 14:18
> Abram tithed to him before Mosaic law … Ge 14:20
> Melchizedek foreshadows Jesus’ priesthood .. Ps 110:4; Heb 5:6; 6:20
> More detail as to priesthood of Melchizedek .. Heb 7:1-28
– Original Passover Feast ….. Ex 12:17-30
> see Blood of Jesus . Section E1
– Ruth had bread and wine with Boaz …. Ru 2:14
– The table of shewbread in the tabernacle … … … .. Le 24:5-9
b) BEGINNINGS IN NEW TESTAMENT TIMES
– Was Jesus’ eager desire Lu 22:15
> As part of the Passover Feast .. Mt 26:17-30; Mk 14:12-26; Lu 22:7-23
> As revealed to Paul by Jesus … 1Co 11:23-34
> Jesus taught it as a means of identifying
with Him Joh 6:53,54
c) PRACTICED IN THE EARLY CHURCH
– As part of a church meal …. 1Co 11:17-34
– As part of the fellowship of believers .. Ac 2:42
– As part of the Sunday (1st day) meeting …. Ac 20:7,11
d) WHAT IS DONE?
– Originally as part of Passover Feast …. Mt 26:17-30
– Corinthian church kept it as part of a meal 1Co 11:17-34
– Paul practiced it as part of a Sunday meeting .. Ac 20:7,11
– The bread represents the body of Christ ….. 1Co 11:24
– The wine represents the blood of Christ …. 1Co 11:25
– We wait upon each other and partake together 1Co 11:20-21
c) WHO IS TO PARTAKE OF THE LORD’S SUPPER
– It is meant for believers, not unbelievers … 1Co 10:21
– Self-examination is required …. 1Co 11:28
– Unbelievers who partake of Lord’s table and idols’ food
will be judged by God …. 1Co 10:18-22; 11:27-32
f) SYMBOLIC MEANING OF LORD’S SUPPER
– Communion is a type of the heavenly wedding feast… Re 19:9
– It is a looking back and a looking forward
> proclaiming His victory on the cross .. 1Co 11:26
> proclaiming His victory at His return . 1Co 11:26
– Jesus spoke symbolically before the Lord’s Supper
> I am the vine, you are the branches …. Joh 15:5
> I am the bread of life … Joh 6:48
– Now He says
– this bread represents My body.. Mk 14:22
> this wine represents My blood Mk 14:24
– Note: Some people make a SERIOUS ERROR when they say that the bread and wine are the real body and blood of Jesus. They say communion is the re-sacrificing of Jesus again. This is a serious error.
> crucifying Jesus again is seen as having fallen away from the faith completely ….. Heb 6:6
> wicked hands crucified our Lord … Ac2:23
> princes of this world crucified Jesus … ICo 2:8
> Satan is the Prince and power of the world ….. Joh 12:31; Eph 2:2
> crucifixion was a betrayal… Mt26:2
> Jesus was sacrificed once, for ever, for all Heb 9:26; 10:10,12
> there is no more sacrifice for sins .. Heb 10:26
– Bread and wine are not the real body and blood of Jesus; they represent, typify the reality.
> Jesus and the bread and wine are together . Mt 26:17-30
> He is not giving His body, but symbols of it.
> Jesus says He will eat of it again in the
Kingdom of God . Lu 22:16
> He cannot mean He will eat Himself.
> Resurrected Jesus breaks real bread
(not His body) … … … Lu 24:30
> Surely this indicates it is NOT LITERALLY His body and blood.
– Jesus promises to be with us always …. Mt 28:20; Mt 18:20
– Jesus claims to be in US (not the bread and wine) Joh 15:4-7
4. WORSHIP AND PRAISE
WORSHIP has to do with our attitude and actions of honour, love and respect toward the One we reverence and fear, our Ruler. PRAISE has to do with proclaiming (usually by our words and songs) the glory and goodness of the One we worship. Ps 51:15
a) WHO SHOULD BE PRAISED AND WORSHIPED?
– Worship God …. Ex 34:14; Mt 4:10; Lu 4:8 Re 22:9; IPe 4:11
> Commandment . Ex 20:3; Mt 22:3637
– Angels worship Jesus ….Heb 1:6
> see Deity of Jesus .. Section B8
b) WHO SHOULD WORSHIP GOD?
– All of His creation should praise Him.. Ps 148:1-4
– All His angels and the heavenly host … Ps 148:2
– All who trust in Jesus .. Eph 1:12; Ps 22:23
– 24 Elders worship before the throne ….. Re4:10-11
– Magi wish to worship Jesus Mt 2:2
– All the earth should praise Him Ps 148:7-13
> rulers of the earth … Ps 148:11
> men and women ….. Ps 148:12
> young children . Ps148:12;Mt21:15-16;Ps 8:2
> those who have been martyred Re 6:9-11
– Eventually everyone will …. Php2:9-11
c) WHY SHOULD GOD BE PRAISED AND WORSHIPED?
– Believers were CHOSEN to show His praises IPe 2:9
– Praise glorifies God Ps 50:23
– Because it is commanded … Ps67:3-5;Re 19:5
– For His mercy … Ro 15:9
– For our own benefit
> God inhabits the praises of Israel . Ps 22:3
> it is pleasant for us to praise Him .. Ps 147:1
> praise is appropriate for the upright Ps 33:1
– Because of Who the Lord God is
> He is the great King over all the earth . Ps 47:1-9
> because of His surpassing greatness …. Ps 150:2
> as Creator of everything …. Ps 148:5; Ne 9:5-6
> His Name is exalted …. Ps 48:10; 148:13; Ne 9:5
> He is our Protector. Ps 144:2
– Because of His acts of power .. Ps 150:2; Lu 19:37
> for His healing Ps 147:3; 146:8; Section 12
> for His provision of food .. Ps 147:8-9
> for His help for the weak .. Ps 146:7-9
– To please Him .. Ps 149:3-4
– As spiritual battle (defeat the enemies of God) ….. Ps 149:6-9; 2Ch 20:22-24
d) HOW SHOULD PRAISE AND WORSHIP BE OFFERED?
– Deeds (fruits) of righteousness are praise .. Php 1:11
– Giving of offerings Le 19:24
– Not “where” but “how” (spirit and truth) … Joh 4:23-24
> in spirit, no confidence in the flesh ….. Php 3:3
– Worship in the beauty of holiness . ICh 16:29; Ps 29:2; 96:9
– By our righteous lifestyle .. Php 1:11
– By speaking of Him ….. Ps 145:11-13,21; IPe 4:11; Heb 13:15
– By our ministry in service to God .. IPe 4:11; Col 3:17
– In unity with brethren Ps 133; Ro 15:5-7
> without anger in our heart . ITi 2:8
> without unforgiveness . Mt 5:21-26
– With
> thanksgiving….. Heb 13:15
> gladness …. Ps 9:2
> understanding .. ICo 14:15
> upright heart …. Ps 119:7
> all our heart. Ps 9:1; 138:1
> bowing down .. Ps 138:2; Ge 24:52
> bowing of the head ….. Ge 24:26
> kneeling …. Ps 95:6
> standing ….. 2Ch 20:18-19
> lifted hands ….. Ps134:2;141:2;Ne8:6;ITi2:8
> hand clapping .. Ps 47:1
> shouts of joy … … . Ps 47: l;Lu 19:37
> musical instruments …. Ps 149:3; 150:3-6; Re 14:2
> singing Ps 47:6; Heb 2:12; Col 3:16; Eph 5:18-19
> new song … Ps 144:9
> special singers and musicians … … … … ICh 23:5; 2Ch 20:21-22
> dancing. Ps 149:3; Ex 15:20; 2Sa 6:14
5. FALSE WORSHIP
It is best to learn and practice true worship, as explained in the Bible. However, because there is so much false worship in the world, a few, obvious forms of false worship are mentioned here.
See also False Gospels…. Section F6
a) GOD DOES NOT TOLERATE FALSE WORSHIP
– Forbidden…. Ex 20:4; De 4:16-19; 8:19; Isa 42:8
– Excludes from heaven . ICo 6:9,10; Eph 5:5; Re 22:15
– Eternally punished . Re 14:9-11;21:8
– Keep far from a false matter …. Ex 23:7; Ps 119:104,128
b) IDOL WORSHIP (Sacrificing, Bowing Down, Praying ….. to an Idol)
– Idol worship is
> forbidden…. Ex 20:4; Isa 42:8; IJo 5:21
> not permissible to mix idol-worship with true worship
of God Ex 32:1-6; IKi 12:27-30; Ps 106:19-20
> punished ….. Ex 32:7-10
> worshiping God with images is sin Ex 32:4-6 & Ps 106:19-20
– Idols are worthless
> cannot save Isa 45:20
> idols are not to be feared …. Jer 10:1-5
> degenerate man worships idols Ac 7:42-43; Ro 1:22-23
> idols can’t see or hear .. De 4:28; Ps 115:4-7
> liable to corruption Isa 40:20
> made by human skill … Isa 44:10-20; Ps 115:4
c) WORSHIP OF SUN, MOON, STARS..
– Forbidden …. De 4:15-19; Jer 10:2; Ac 7:42-43
d) WORLDLY AND SATANIC WORSHIP
– Empty religious activity
> worthless, only the commands of men Mt 15:8-9; Mk 7:6-7
– Satan and demons
> angels not to be worshiped Re 19:10; 22:8-9
> Satan desired Jesus’ worship … Mt 4:8-9; Lu 4:6-7
> Demons are worshiped De 32:17; Ps 106:37; ICo 10:20; Re 9:20
– Endtime false worship of beast and image
> wrath of God on all who worship these ….. Re 14:9-11
> plagues of God to teach men not to
worship devils … … … Re 9:20
> Beast is worshiped by non-believers … Re 13:4-8
> Second beast causes people to worship the first …. Re 13:12
> Second beast causes people to worship the image. Re 13:15
e) FORMS OF FALSE WORSHIP
– Sacrifices …. Nu22:40;2Ki 10:23-24
– With libations … Isa 57:6; Jer 19:13
– With incense ….. Jer 48:35; Eze 6:13
– With prayers and singing….. Ex 32:18-19; IKi 18:26
– By cutting themselves .. IKi 18:28
– By burning children ….. De 12:31; 2Ch 33:6; Jer 19:4-5; Eze 16:21
– With sexual impurity …. Nu 25:1-3; 2Ki 17:9; Isa 57:6-9; IPe 4:3
– By carrying idols …. Isa 46:7; Am 5:26; Ac 7:43
– By bowing to idols . IKi 19:18; 2Ki 5:18
– By kissing idols ….. IKi 19:18; Ho 13:2
f) MEANINGLESS WORSHIP
– That which is based only on tradition .. Mt 15:1-9; Col 2:22
– That which only has form but no power ….. 2Ti3:5
– That which is unaccompanied by good deeds . Jas 1:26,27; Am 5:21-24
– That which is based on externals …. Heb 10:1,2
– The vain worship of legalism … Col2:16-23
– Worship performed by those who are unclean.. Ps 24:3,4
6. PRAYER
a) INTRODUCTION
Prayer is communicating with God.
– In the Garden of Eden, God and man simply talked….. Ge 3:8-13
– Now we pray and petition with thanksgiving … Php4:6-7
– First mention of prayer (calling on His Name) Ge 4:26
b) HOW SHOULD WE PRAY?
– To God .. Ac l2:5
– In the Name of Jesus
>ask in My Name Joh 14:13-14
> the Father will give whatever you ask in
My Name ….. Joh 15:16;16:23,26
> give thanks to God the Father in Jesus’ Name . Eph5:20
– By means of the Holy Spirit
> by the Spirit we cry Abba Father .. Ro 8:15-16
> pray in the Spirit….. Eph 6:8
> pray in the Holy Spirit Jude 20
> with our spirit (tongues) and with understanding
(Interpretation of Tongues) .. 1 Co 14:13-15
> Spirit enables our praying by interceding through us
and for us..Ro 8:26
c) IS THERE A SPECIAL PRAYER POSTURE?
– Like fasting, prayer is a place of humility before God and generally the prayer position shows our dependence on God.
– On the face… Nu 20:6; De 9:25; Jos 5:14; 2Ch 20:18; Mt 26:39
– Face between knees… … … IKi 18:42
– Bowing down… … .. Ge 24:26; Ex 4:31; 12:27; 34:8
– Kneeling I Ki 8:54; 2 Ch 6:13; Ezr 9:5 Ps 95:6;Isa45:23;Da6:10; Lu 22:41; Ac 7:60; Eph 3:14
– Standing ….. IKi 8:22; Mk 11:25; Lu 18:11-13
– Lifted hands ….. Ps 28:2; La 2:19; ITi 2:8
d) INNER ATTITUDE IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN OUTER POSTURE
– With humility….. 2Ch 7:14; 33:12; Lu 22:42
– Not for show Mt 6:5-7
– In faith….Mt 21:22; Jas 1:6; Heb 10:22
– With truth….. Ps 17:1; 145:18; Joh 4:24
– With confidence. Ps 56:9; Ps 86:7; IJo 5:14; Heb 10:19-22
– Having forgiven. Mt 6:12; Mk 11:25-26
– Proper heart..Jer 29:13; La 3:41; Ps 119:58,145; Heb 10:22
e) PRAYER IS OFTEN ACCOMPANIED BY
– Watching (Be Alert!) … Lu 21:36;lPe 4:7; Col 4.2
– Confession of personal and corporate sins . Jas 5:16
– Repentance…1 Ki 8:33; Jer 36:7
– Fasting… Ne 1:4; Da 9:3; Ac 13:3
– Weeping. Jer 31:9; Ho 12:4
– Praise….. Ps 66:17
– Thanksgiving….. Php 4:6; Col 4:2
– Proclamation Ps 48:1-3; 18:3,46; 116:1,2
f) A TEACHING PASSAGE. Mt 6:5-14
– Not to be seen of men…. Mt 6:5
– In secret .Mt 6:6
– Don’t keep on babbling like the pagans Mt 6:7
g) OUTLINE OF A PRAYER GIVEN BY JESUS .. Mt 6: 9-13
Sometimes called the “Lord’s prayer” but it was meant to be the “Disciples prayer”.
– Our prayer is to God alone . Mt 6:9
>remind yourself of Who God is. see Section B
– He is our Father in heaven .. Mt 6:9
> see the Fatherhood of God.. see Section B7
– He is to be thanked and praised Mt 6:9
> His Names reflect His relation to us …. see Section B3
> see Salvation …. see Section E
> see Providence of God.. see Index
– In faith desire the Kingdom of God in all areas of this world . Mt 6:10
> listen for direction from the Holy Spirit
– In faith ask for all the provision needed ….. Mt 6:11
– Ask for forgiveness and forgive others .Mt 6:12
– Pray for spiritual leading & protection for all under
your care…Mt 6:13
> put on full Armour of God.. Eph 6:10-20
– We are reminded that God forgives us in the same way that we
> forgive one another Mt 6:14,15
h) PRAYERS ARE ANSWERED
– Promised ….. Isa 58:9; Jer 29:12; Mt 7:7
– Sometimes immediately Isa 65:24; Da 9:21,23
– Sometimes after a delay. Lu 18:7; 1Ki 18:42-44; Da 10:12,13
– Sometimes differently than we expect ..2Co 12:8-9
– Better than we can expect or think . Jer 33:3; Eph 3:20
i) HINDRANCES TO PRAYERS BEING HEARD OR ANSWERED
– We fight for what we want instead of asking…. Jas 4:2
– We ask with selfish motives Jas 4:3
– We ask while making a practice of sin . Ps 66:18; Isa 59:1-2
– We are deaf to the cry of the poor .. Pr 21:13
– We oppose the saints of God …. Ps 18:40-41; Mic 3:2-4
– We are disobedient to known command of God …. Pr 28:9
– We have an unforgiving spirit… Mt 5:22-24; 6:12-15
– We lack faith ….. Heb 11:6; Jas 1:6
– We keep idols in our heart .. Eze 8:5-18; 14:1-3
– We have turmoil in our home … 1Pe 3:7
j) PRIVATE PRAYER
– Jesus as our Example….. Mt 14:23; 26:36,39; Mk 1:35; Lu 9:18,19
– Will be rewarded openly …..Mt 6:6
– New Testament Examples:
> Anna …..Lu2:36,37
> Paul Ac 9:11
> Peter ….. Ac 9:40
> Cornelius …. Ac 10:30
k) PUBLIC PRAYER
– Agreement in prayer ….. Mt 18:19-20
– May not be understood by others if prayer in “tongues”….. 1Co 14:13-16
– Pray for Interpretation of “prayers in tongues” in church meeting …. 1Co 14:13-16
– Should be offered for
> all men, kings, and all in authority 1Ti 2:1-2
> for ministers ….. 2Co 1:11; Php 1:19
> all believers Eph 6:18
> our enemies Mt 5:44; Lu 6:27,28 > the sick.. Jas 5:14
> when our brethren are in danger….. Ac 12:12
> for all nations … Ps 2:8; 1Ki 8:41-43; Isa 56:7
7. FASTING
a) INTRODUCTION
– Fasting means denying our bodies some of its usual provision.
– Not a cure-all for past sins .. Jer 14:10-12
– Ordained for the Church by Jesus …Mk 2:20; Lu 5:35
– Some demons only come out by prayer & fasting ..Mt 17:15-21
– Bible mentions denying yourself:
> food and water.. Ex 34:28; De 9:9
> food Mt 4:1-2; Lu 4:1-2
> certain pleasant foods… Da 10:3
> married persons may fast from sex – for a time,
by mutual consent, to pray….. 1Co 7:4-5
b) A TEACHING PASSAGE ….. Isa 58:11
– Purpose & circumstances of a fast
> fasting should humble the body v3 Ps35:13
> the purpose is NOT ONLY to humble the body….. v5
> we are to do the Lord’s pleasure, not our own.. v3 Zec 7:5
> we are not to exploit our workers while we fast….. v3
> not heard by God if our fast results in quarreling… v4
– Characteristics of a proper fast
> what is done in secret will be rewarded openly Mt 6:17-18
> spiritual & social oppression released.. v6,10 Ps 35:13
> helping others in a practical way…. v7,10
> personal sanctification.. v9
– Consequences of a proper fast
> health … v8,11
> protection from God in front and behind … v8
> guidance v9,11
c) EXAMPLES OF FASTS AND THEIR CIRCUMSTANCES
– Extraordinary Fasts
> Moses while receiving the Ten Commandments…. De 9:9,18; Ex 34:28
> Elijah fleeing from Jezebel – angel fed him 1Ki 19:2-9
> Jesus after His baptism and Holy Spirit anointing. Lu 4:1-2
– Israel wishing to be free from Philistine rule…. 1Sa 7:6
> Moabites & Ammonites….. 2Ch 20:3
– Ezra mourning over the unfaithfulness of Israel …. Ezr 10:6
– Daniel to gain understanding of a vision …. Da 10:3
– Paul after he met the Lord, fasted 3 days while blind .. Ac 9:9
– Leaders of Antioch church sending out Barnabas & Saul… Ac 13:2-3
– Paul and Barnabas while appointing elders Ac 14:23
– Esther before appearing before the king ….. Es 4:16
– Elders of Jezreel – in order to accuse & kill Naboth 1Ki 21:12
– Ahab delayed God’s judgment on himself .. 1Ki 21:27-29
– Nineveh – to prevent God’s judgment…. Jon 3:6-10
d) ACCOMPANIED BY
– Confession of sin …. 1Sa 7:6
– Prayer & hearing from the Lord ….. 2Ch 20:3
– Privacy, not for show …. Mt 6:16-18
e) NOT ACCOMPANIED BY
– Somberness & disfiguring .. Mt 6:16-18; Es 4:16-5:5
f) PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS WHEN FASTING
– Drink water when abstaining from food. Implied by words “afterword He hungered” –
not “afterward He thirsted” … Mt 4:1,2; Lu 4:1,2
Note: Fasting from food longer than 7 to 15 days can be dangerous to your health. Longer fasts should only be under clear, certain direction and miraculous enablement from the Lord.
– The three forty-day fasts mentioned in the Bible were all MIRACULOUS in nature and initiated by God – not the one fasting (Moses, Elijah, Jesus).
> Moses did not eat or DRINK for forty days….. Ex 34:28
(you can die in the desert in 24 hours if without water).
> An Angel fed Elijah a special meal before
his forty-day fast . 1Ki 19:5-8
> Jesus was led (literal = driven) by the Spirit into
the wilderness to fast . Lu 4:l,2
..and angels ministered to Him afterward.
g) Longer fasts are all right if you’ve been given a special gift or grace from the Lord for the fast. When you have this gift, you are not hungry. “Afterward (not during the fast) he hungered” Lu 4:1,2
8. GIVING-TITHES AND OFFERINGS
a) INTRODUCTION
– Christ’s giving of Himself for our salvation is the strongest
> example of giving… Ga 1:4; 2:20
– God is a giver… including His Son . see Section B6, B7
– There is a spiritual gift of giving; we are not talking
about that gift here …. see Section F10, Ro 12:8
b) TITHE (giving of 1/10 of our income to the work of the Lord)
– Practiced before giving of the Law to Moses
> Abraham gave a tithe … Ge 14:20; Heb 7:4-10
> Abraham was 430 years before Moses Ga 3:17
> Jacob promises to give a tithe to God… Ge 28:22
– During the time of Moses’ Law
> Law of Moses demands a tithe of everything… Le 27:30,32
> Levites received the tithe for work of God Nu 18:21
> God condemns Israel for not giving a tithe Mal 3:6-12
> God blesses if the nation tithes. Mal 3:6-12
> Church leaders may live from the tithe money. 1Co 9:1-14
> Levites also required to tithe … Nu 18:25-32; Ne 10:38
– During the time of Jesus on the earth
> we should do more than just tithe… Mt 23:23; Lu 11:42
c) EXAMPLES OF GENEROUS /SACRIFICIAL GIVERS
– Israel when the Tabernacle was built … Ex 36:5
– Poor widow put in all her wealth …. Lu 21:1-4
– Early Church gave to the needy Ac 4:34-35
– Macedonian church gave out of its poverty 2 Co 8:l-15
d) SACRIFICIAL GIVERS RECEIVE ABUNDANCE FROM GOD
– Giving does not buy God’s provision – it releases it….. Mal 3:10
– Widow of Zarephath gave last food to Elijah… and was
abundantly provided for .. I Ki 17:12-15
– Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus with expensive perfume
… and promised special recognition ..Mt 26:7-13
e) NEW TESTAMENT GIVING
– Giver should be rightly related to other Mt 5:23-24
– Give without a big show, even secretly Mt 6:1-4
– Freely you have received, freely give … Mt 10:8
– More blessed to give tha n to receive …. Ac20:35
– Giving according to your income … I Co 16:1-2
> those handling money should be approved. I Co 16:3-4
– Sow sparingly, reap sparingly .. 2Co 9:6; Lu 6:38
– Sow generously, reap generously … 2Co 9:6; Lu 6:38
– Decide ahead of time….. 2Co 9:7
– Give cheerfully, not under compulsion 2Co 9:7
– God’s reply to careful, cheerful giving
> abundance of grace 2 Co 9:8
> abundance for every good work …. 2 Co 9:8,11
– Result of giving
> needs of the church are supplied …. 2Co 9:12
> thanksgiving to God ….. 2 Co 9:12
– Giving is a confession of our faith ..2 Co 9:13
– Giving stimulates prayers … 2 Co9:l4
– God gave first … 2 Co 9:15
9. MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY
a) MARRIAGE IS INSTITUTED BY GOD
– A particular form for a wedding ceremony is not given in Bible.
– Adam and Eve… Ge2:24; Mt 19:4-6
– Jesus blesses marriage by His presence and a miracle.. Joh 2:1-11
– Marriage should be honored by all . Heb 13:4
– Christian is not to marry an unbeliever. 2 Co 6:14-18
> a Christian is to remain married to an unbeliever… I Co 7:12-14
> a Christian is free if unbeliever chooses to leave… I Co 7:12-16
b) GOD’S BLESSINGS ON THE HOME OF THOSE
WHO FEAR HIM Ps 128
– experience true happiness … v.2
– experience God’s favor . v.2
– experience fruitfulness .. v.3
– posterity will inherit the blessings .. v3,6
c) HUSBANDS AND WIVES
– “Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing.”… Pr 18:22
– Husband’s duties
> love your wife, as Christ does the Church.. Eph 5:25
> be sensitive to her weaknesses as a woman I Pe 3:7
> provide for the family .. I Ti 5:8
> give to his wife her conjugal rights ….. I Co 7:3; Eph 5:31
> nourish and cherish his wife, as his own body. Eph 5:28,29
> provide headship for his wife .. Ge 2:22, ICo 11:3
> praise her….. Pr 31:28
> Please her … Pr 5:18; Ec 9:9; De 24:5; I Co 7:33
> speak tenderly to her….. Ca 2:10-14; Ho 2:14
– Wives’ duties ….. Pr 31:10
> submit to her husband… Eph 5:22,24, Col 3:18
> honor her husband.. Es 1:20; Pr 31:23
> obey her husband … I Pe 3:6
> love one’s husband . Tit 2:4
> be full of good deeds…. l Pe3:l-6; Tit 2:5
> give special consideration for the home …. Tit 2:5; Pr 31:15,27
> be sensible, chaste, domestic and kind Tit 2:5
> dress modestly, adorn inner jewels of the heart I Pe 3:3,4; I Ti 2:9,10
> please her husband . 1 Co 7:34
> be a helper to her husband . Ge 2:18-20
> show hospitality ….. 1 Ti5:10
– Examples:
> of godly affection in marriage: Jacob/Rachel .. Ge 29:20
> the beauties of marital love Song of Sol
> godly parents: Joseph and Mary …. Mt 1,2, Lu2
> couples serving the Lord together:
Aquila/Priscilla…. Ac 18:2,26
d) MARRIAGE AS A TYPE OF OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
-God and Israel….. Jer 3:14; Eze 16:1-8
– Jesus and the Church….. Eph 5:21-33; 2Co 11:2; Re 21:2,9; 22:17
e) MARRIAGE OF ADAM AND EVE AS A TYPE OF CHRIST AND THE CHURCH
– No creature found suitable for a bride for Adam…..Ge 2:19-20
> sinful man is not suitable as a bride of Jesus,
we must be born again of the Spirit .. Joh 3:3-7
– Eve taken out of Adam’s side…. Ge 2:21-22
> Church comes out of Jesus’ pierced side…. Joh 19:34
– Eve is of the flesh and bone of Adam … Ge 2:23
> that which is of Spirit is spirit, of flesh is flesh Joh 3:6; Eph 5:30-32
– Eve has the life of Adam, taken out of Adam… Ge 2:23
> our new life is from being put into Christ Jesus….. Joh 17:20-23; 2Co 5:17
f) REMAINING UNMARRIED IS ALSO ENCOURAGED IN SCRIPTURE
– However, marriage must not be forbidden . I Ti 4:1-3
– Example of Jesus, unmarried …. The Gospels
– Example of Paul, remaining unmarried special gift
from God.. I Co 7:8
– Jesus teaches His disciples . Mt 19:10-12
– Paul teaches the Church I Co 7:1-2,7-9
> because of this “present crisis” I Co 7:26
g) DIVORCE
– God hates divorce … Mal 2:16
– Moses’ law allows divorce for various reasons De 24:1-4
> probably Moses’ law was given to regulate an existing practice because in divorce a written contract is given….. De 24:1
> the woman is free to remarry afterwards…. De 24:2
– Reason for Moses’ permitting divorce for various reasons
> Jesus says – because of their hard hearts….. Mt 19:8; Mk 10:2-12
> it wasn’t this way at the beginning.. Mt 19:3-5; Mk 10:6-9
h) TERMINATION OF A MARRIAGE COVENANT
– Death of one person frees the other to remarry. Ro 7:2-3; I Co 7:39
– A believer is free if an unbelieving spouse leaves…I Co 7:13-16
– Some believe Jesus allowed divorce for reason of
adultery … Mt 5:31-32; 19:9
> an example of reconciliation after adultery Jer 3:1; Hosea
> God “divorces” Israel for spiritual “adultery”.. Jer 3:8
i) SCRIPTURE WARNS AGAINST SOME MARRIAGES
– In the beginning there were no stated restrictions
> Cain & Seth probably married close relatives
> Abraham married a close relative (later forbidden
by law) …. Ge 20:11-12
> Jacob marries two sisters (later forbidden
by law)….. Ge 29:21-30
– Law forbids marrying close relatives … Le 18:5-30; 20:17-23
> John the Baptist condemns King Herod for marrying his brother’s wife, while his brother was still alive. Mt 14:3-4
– A believer should not marry an unbeliever 2 Co 6:14-16
– Homosexual relationships are condemned . Le 18:22; 20:13; I Co 6:9,10; I Ti 1:9,10
j) POLYGAMY (MORE THAN ONE WIFE)
– Polygamy forbidden. When practiced, it brought pain and sorrow to families.
> for Israel’s king De 17:17
> for all Israel-don’t break faith with first wife…. Mal 2:15
> one man one wife at the beginning Ge 2:24; Mk 10:6-8
> Church leaders must have only one wife…. I Ti 3:2,12; Tit 1:6
– First example is Lamech, he had 2 wives…. Ge 4:19
> from the line of Cain …. Ge 4:17-18
> he was also a murderer. Ge 4:23-24
> contrast with the line of Seth & Enosh
> men began to call on the Name of the Lord….. Ge 4:25-26
– Abram married Sarai & Hagar, Sarai’s servant Ge 16:3
> Abram believed Sarai’s logic rather than
God’s promise ….. Ge 16:2
> Hagar despised Sarai after she became pregnant…. Ge 16:4
> result is a quarrel between Abram and Sarai…. Ge 16:5
> result is sorrow for Hagar… Ge 16:16; 21:10-13
> Hagar’s son, Ishmael, is Isaac’s enemy. Ge 16:12; 21:9
– Esau had 2 wives …. Ge26:34
> this was a source of sorrow for his parent . Ge 26:35
> Esau married Canaanites to displease his parents.. Ge 28:8-9
– Laban tricks Jacob into marrying Leah Ge 29:22-30
> Jacob also marries Rachel… Ge 29:28-30
> Jacob loves Rachel more than Leah …. Ge 29:28-33
> Rachel is jealous of Leah because of children . Ge 30:1
> Servant girls given as wives …. Ge 30:3,9
> trouble between children from different wives. Ge 37:11,26-28
– Gideon had many wives ….. Jdg 8:30
> one son murdered 70 of the others.. Jdg 9:1-5
– Samuel’s father had 2 wives ….. I Sa 1:2
> Elkanah loved Hannah more …. I Sa 1:5
> other wife was a rival and caused discord.. I Sa 1:6-7
– David had several wives ….. 2 Sa 3:2,5
>Bathsheba was obtained through murder….. 2 Sa 11:26-27
> incest became a problem between
Ammon & Tamar. 2 Sa 13:1-15
> Absalom kills Ammon . 2 Sa 13:28-29
> rivalry between sons of David from different
wives.. I Ki 1:17-21
– Solomon had many wives …I Ki 1:1-6
> he was led away from God by his wives … I Ki 11:3-4
> he began to practice idolatry….. I Ki 11:7
> God’s anger is revealed against Solomon .. I Ki 11:9-13
> Solomon’s kingdom to be lost… I Ki 11:9,11,
– Rehoboam preferred one wife over the other … 2 Ch 11:18-21
– Heathen king had many wives .. Da 5:2
– But marriages made prior to salvation are not to be
changed… I Co 7:20
k) PARENTS AND CHILDREN
Again, the greatest examples of Parent/Child relationships are found in how God relates to us as His children and how we should respond to Him as our Father.
– Parental duties:
“And David returned to bless his household” 2 Sa 6:20
> teach one’s duldren..De 6:6,7; 4:9
> train one’s children.. Pr 22:6;Eph 6:4
> provide for one’s family ….. 2 Co 12:14
> sanctify them unto God.:…. Job 1:5; Lu 2:22-23
> nurture one’s children …Eph 6:4
> to reprove them Pr 29:15; Re 3:19
> to control them.. 1 Sa 3:13; 1 Ti 3:4,12
> to chasten them. 2 Sa 7:14; Heb 12:6; Pr 13:24
> to discipline them…. Pr 13:24; 22:15; 29:17
> to love them Tit 2:4; Pr 13:24
> to not provoke them to anger … Eph 6:4
> to be a godly example to them . 2Ti 1:5; 2Ch 26:4
> to be forgiving towards them…. Lu 15:20-24
> to include them in worship times … Jos 8:35; Ne 12:43
Note: Parents must be careful to deal with sin in their own lives. The Scriptures warn us that those same sins may be passed on to our children and posterity (Ex 20:5; 34:7).
– Children’s duties
> honor and respect parents… Ex 20:12, Eph 6:2
> obey parents in all things…. Col 3:20
> make their parents happy … Pr 23:24,25; Pr 10:1
> not to mock or despise them …. Pr 30:7
> pay dose attention to their words … Pr 6:20-23
> take care of them when they are old …. 1 Ti 5:3,4
l) BARRENNESS (NO CHILDREN IN A MARRIAGE)
– Nowhere in Scripture is this a reason for divorce.
– Sometimes (usually not) it can be a judgment of God
> Michal, Saul’s daughter, David’s wife . 2 Sa 6:23
– Many of the beloved women of the Bible started barren. God intervened and some of these children are the most important people in the Bible.
– Sarai, Abram’s wife, was barren ….. Ge 11:29- 30
> God’s promise of a son Ge 12:2; 15:4-6; 18:10
> wrong human effort produces Ishmael. Ge 16:1-5
> Isaac is born according to the promise Ge 21:1-7
– Rachel, Jacob’s wife, was barren …. Ge 30:1
> false human effort .. Ge 30:3
> Joseph is born according to God’s will. Ge 30:22-24
– Samson’s mother was barren …. Jdg 13:2
> angel promises a special child . Jdg 13:3
> Samson is born.. Jdg 13:24-25
– Hannah, Samuel’s mother, was barren .. 1Sa 1:5
> she prays …. 1Sa 1:10-17
> Samuel is born . 1Sa l:20
– Shunammite woman who helped Elisha was barren …. 2Ki 4:14
> promised a child ….. 2Ki 4:16
> child is born ….. 2Ki 4:17
> child is miraculously raised from the dead 2Ki 4:32-35
– Elizabeth, Zacharias’ wife, was barren . Lu 1:5-7
> angel Gabriel’s promise to Zacharias … Lu 1:13
> John the Baptist is born ….. Lu 1:57-58
m) OTHER REFERENCE TO THE FAMILY
– Home to be a place of serving others … 3Jo 5-8; Tit 1:8
– Christian leaders expected to have exemplary homes .. 1Ti 3:4,5
– Not providing for one’s family worse than unbelief 1Ti 5:8
– Often whole families turn to Christ Ac 16:15,33; Joh 4:53
– Families were sometimes called to serve the Lord together:
> Moses, Aaron, and Miriam Ex 4:29; 15:20
> Andrew and Peter .. Joh 1:41; Mt 10:2
> James and John (sons of Zebedee) Mt 10:2; 20:20
– Scriptures teach appropriateness of family worship ….. Ro 16:5; 1Co 16:19; Ex 12:3,4; 33:7-10
– Maintaining God’s presence the key to continued
blessing … 2 Sa 6:11
