This document discusses the difference between living by grace versus living by performance. It argues that while good works are important, they should come from a place of responding to God's grace rather than trying to earn God's favor. The document outlines how we are all in need of God's grace due to our sinful nature. It was only by God's grace that we can be saved through faith in Jesus, not by our own works. If we enter God's kingdom by grace, we must live in it by grace as well. Our motivation should be God's love and grace for us, not trying to fulfill requirements to gain blessings. True spiritual works flow from walking in God's grace, not to earn it. All of God
This document discusses the importance of knowing the true God. It argues that what we think about God is the most important thing about us because our ideas have consequences. It says we cannot be like God or recognize false gods unless we know what God is truly like. We can know God through studying his world, word, and Christ. The document encourages reading, memorizing, and meditating on scriptures about God to properly know and live according to the truth about him.
This document summarizes key points from a teaching on prayer based on Ephesians 1:15-19. It discusses three main ideas:
1. The supremacy of prayer - Paul's most important prayer was that people would know God better by taking Him into their hearts and minds. Knowing about God is less important than knowing God Himself.
2. The integrity of prayer - Giving priority to outer life over inner life leads to feeling uncomfortable with self-reflection and lacking integrity. Cultivating an inner prayer life is important.
3. The hardness of prayer - Prayer is difficult work that requires searching for God, even when feeling His absence. Persisting through dryness and discomfort can lead to a flour
The document discusses what it means to know God. Knowing God is having an interactive covenant relationship with Him that involves the heart, mind, soul and body. It requires action, not just teaching. To grow in knowing God better involves focusing on feelings, truth, and actions - specifically developing a more honest prayer life; studying theology, the Bible, and critical thinking; and finding a biblical need to serve through actions. The overall message is that knowing God changes who we are and involves growing in our relationship with Him through our thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and deeds.
Biblical Dating
“Being the right person to serve my future spouse’s needs and be a God-glorifying husband or wife”
"Acceptable" is such a loose term, so it's hard to say what is "acceptable" for any given person. After all, everyone is a different individual and their situations and maturity will vary greatly. Something that is acceptable for one person may not be acceptable for another.
Also keep in mind 1 Corinthians 10:23 (NIV), which says, "'I have the right to do anything,' you say—but not everything is beneficial. 'I have the right to do anything'—but not everything is constructive." We have many freedoms through Christ, but that doesn't mean that everything will be healthy or good for you.
The document discusses the meaning of "knowing God". It argues that knowing God is not merely subjective or based on feelings, but rather is an objective interactive relationship with God as revealed in Scripture. It involves understanding God's character through His Word and obeying His commands, not just having beliefs or experiences. Several Bible verses are presented showing that knowing God involves action, transforming the whole person, and having assurance rather than just feelings.
This document provides an overview and outline of a multi-part study on the book of Ephesians. It discusses Paul's purpose in writing to the church in Ephesus, highlighting themes of Christ's superiority, God's eternal plan, and the manifestation of the body of Christ. The study examines key aspects of salvation through the work of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It also explores how the gospel brings about unity between Jews and Gentiles and reconciliation to God. The document provides discussion questions, applications and suggestions for further study.
This document provides an overview and outline of a multi-part study on the book of Ephesians. It discusses Paul's purpose in writing to the church in Ephesus, highlighting themes of Christ's superiority, God's eternal plan, and the manifestation of the body of Christ. The study examines key passages on salvation through the work of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It also explores themes of unity between believers and reconciliation to God and each other. The document provides discussion questions, applications and suggestions for further study.
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” (Romans 8:14)
Exactly how are we be led by the Holy Spirit?
Exactly how does the Holy Spirit communicate to all of us in this life?
If the Bible calls the Holy Spirit our Guide and Teacher in this life, then this means He will attempt to communicate to all of us from time to time.
Otherwise we will never be able to pick up from Him exactly what He is trying to teach us or tell us to do.
The very first thing we need to know if we want to learn how to be led by the Holy Spirit is that
We can develop a direct personal relationship with Him
Just like you already have with God and Jesus.
Here are two key verses from the apostle Paul telling us that we are allowed to have direct communication and direct fellowship with the Holy Spirit Himself:
“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” (2 Corinthians 13:14)
“Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit …” (Phillippians 2:1)
This document discusses the importance of knowing the true God. It argues that what we think about God is the most important thing about us because our ideas have consequences. It says we cannot be like God or recognize false gods unless we know what God is truly like. We can know God through studying his world, word, and Christ. The document encourages reading, memorizing, and meditating on scriptures about God to properly know and live according to the truth about him.
This document summarizes key points from a teaching on prayer based on Ephesians 1:15-19. It discusses three main ideas:
1. The supremacy of prayer - Paul's most important prayer was that people would know God better by taking Him into their hearts and minds. Knowing about God is less important than knowing God Himself.
2. The integrity of prayer - Giving priority to outer life over inner life leads to feeling uncomfortable with self-reflection and lacking integrity. Cultivating an inner prayer life is important.
3. The hardness of prayer - Prayer is difficult work that requires searching for God, even when feeling His absence. Persisting through dryness and discomfort can lead to a flour
The document discusses what it means to know God. Knowing God is having an interactive covenant relationship with Him that involves the heart, mind, soul and body. It requires action, not just teaching. To grow in knowing God better involves focusing on feelings, truth, and actions - specifically developing a more honest prayer life; studying theology, the Bible, and critical thinking; and finding a biblical need to serve through actions. The overall message is that knowing God changes who we are and involves growing in our relationship with Him through our thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and deeds.
Biblical Dating
“Being the right person to serve my future spouse’s needs and be a God-glorifying husband or wife”
"Acceptable" is such a loose term, so it's hard to say what is "acceptable" for any given person. After all, everyone is a different individual and their situations and maturity will vary greatly. Something that is acceptable for one person may not be acceptable for another.
Also keep in mind 1 Corinthians 10:23 (NIV), which says, "'I have the right to do anything,' you say—but not everything is beneficial. 'I have the right to do anything'—but not everything is constructive." We have many freedoms through Christ, but that doesn't mean that everything will be healthy or good for you.
The document discusses the meaning of "knowing God". It argues that knowing God is not merely subjective or based on feelings, but rather is an objective interactive relationship with God as revealed in Scripture. It involves understanding God's character through His Word and obeying His commands, not just having beliefs or experiences. Several Bible verses are presented showing that knowing God involves action, transforming the whole person, and having assurance rather than just feelings.
This document provides an overview and outline of a multi-part study on the book of Ephesians. It discusses Paul's purpose in writing to the church in Ephesus, highlighting themes of Christ's superiority, God's eternal plan, and the manifestation of the body of Christ. The study examines key aspects of salvation through the work of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It also explores how the gospel brings about unity between Jews and Gentiles and reconciliation to God. The document provides discussion questions, applications and suggestions for further study.
This document provides an overview and outline of a multi-part study on the book of Ephesians. It discusses Paul's purpose in writing to the church in Ephesus, highlighting themes of Christ's superiority, God's eternal plan, and the manifestation of the body of Christ. The study examines key passages on salvation through the work of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It also explores themes of unity between believers and reconciliation to God and each other. The document provides discussion questions, applications and suggestions for further study.
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” (Romans 8:14)
Exactly how are we be led by the Holy Spirit?
Exactly how does the Holy Spirit communicate to all of us in this life?
If the Bible calls the Holy Spirit our Guide and Teacher in this life, then this means He will attempt to communicate to all of us from time to time.
Otherwise we will never be able to pick up from Him exactly what He is trying to teach us or tell us to do.
The very first thing we need to know if we want to learn how to be led by the Holy Spirit is that
We can develop a direct personal relationship with Him
Just like you already have with God and Jesus.
Here are two key verses from the apostle Paul telling us that we are allowed to have direct communication and direct fellowship with the Holy Spirit Himself:
“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” (2 Corinthians 13:14)
“Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit …” (Phillippians 2:1)
Martin Luther argues that Christians can have assurance of their salvation based on three grounds: 1) The promises of Scripture that those who trust in Christ alone are saved. 2) The sanctifying work of the Spirit seen in the lives of believers. 3) The witness of the Spirit causing believers to cry "Abba, Father." Luther says this cry, though small, expresses the believer's knowledge that they are God's child through Christ. He urges believers to train their conscience to believe that God approves of them, despite doubts, based on Christ's righteousness.
This document discusses important questions about worship, including where worship originates, what worship is, what idolatry is, and how to nurture worship. It explains that God receives perfect worship within the Trinity, and that true worship entails glorifying and sacrificing for Jesus. Idolatry involves worshipping anything other than God, such as things God created or things humans created. The document provides steps to renew worship on personal, relational, missional, church, and structural levels in order to focus exclusively on worshipping God rather than any false idols.
This document is an excerpt from a book titled "I will walk in your truth" by Kayode Crown. It discusses what it means to walk in God's truth based on Psalm 86:11. Some key points made include:
- To walk in God's truth requires committing to obeying what God has revealed and changing relationships and lifestyle to align with God's ways.
- It may require leaving behind family or friends who do not respect God or his truth.
- Walking in God's truth also means committing to God's plans and purposes for one's life rather than one's own ambitions.
- It involves understanding and living out one's new identity and privileges as a child of God through faith in Jesus
The Bible is very clear as to what our purpose in this life should be. Men in both the Old and New Testaments sought for and discovered life’s purpose. Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, according to scripture, discovered the futility of life when it is lived only for this world. He gives these concluding remarks in the book of Ecclesiastes: 13 “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil”. - Ecclesiastes 12:13-14.
99 Jesus Used The Word to Focus People on LoveRick Peterson
Adapted from a Jeffery Anselmi sermon series https://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/5-jesus-used-the-word-to-focus-people-on-love-jeffery-anselmi-sermon-on-love-233078?ref=SermonSeriesDetails
The document provides a list of 20 things that the author believes children should know about God, humanity, Jesus, and the sacraments before receiving communion for the first time. The list includes basics such as: there is one God in three persons; God created everything; Jesus is both God and man; and in communion one receives the body and blood of Christ. The author explains that knowing these concepts will help children understand what they are doing when receiving communion and mean what they say. The document also provides context for some of the concepts on the list.
Already/although not yet, Empty promises, use non-biblical teachings to live...franktsao4
The document discusses problems with modern churches and proposes solutions to remedy these issues. It identifies potential problems as empty promises, use of non-biblical teachings, overemphasis on theory with no practical application, inability to discuss truth, and focus on building members rather than biblical teachings. The proposed solutions are to return to focusing on the Bible, individual discipleship, strong family values, Christianizing the church community, and spreading God's message to society. Specific bible verses and blog posts are referenced for further guidance on these topics. Contact information is provided to discuss joining disciple training sessions.
The document discusses the importance of applying biblical discernment when choosing a church. It says the key issues that should drive our choice are matters of doctrine regarding God, the Bible, and the gospel. It provides biblical support for the doctrine of God as one in three persons. It emphasizes that the Bible is the infallible rule of faith and outlines what the gospel teaches based on passages from 1 Corinthians - that Christ died for our sins and was resurrected. It stresses the centrality of the cross and gospel in the Christian life.
1) The document discusses three different mindsets - the Barbarian, Greek, and Hebrew mindsets.
2) The Barbarian mindset operates based on fear, the Greek mindset relies on human intellect and reason, while the Hebrew mindset trusts in God.
3) To develop a Hebrew mindset, the document recommends meditating on God's word daily and taking every thought captive to examine its source and alignment with scripture. Adopting a Hebrew mindset will lead to prosperity by learning to think as God thinks.
There are basically six forms or types of prayer. They all have specific ways they address needs, which means contrary to popular belief, God has set rules or if that word offends ones sensibilities, let’s say, guidelines to communicating with Him, ways of making these prayers function more effectively.
1) When claiming God's promises, we must carefully understand what the promises say without assumptions. God will meet our needs, not wants.
2) We must consider the context and premise of the promise. Philippians 4:19 refers to God meeting the Philippians' needs after they generously supported Paul's ministry.
3) To claim a promise requires practical faith that God created the universe and can do anything, but will provide according to His plans and purposes.
10 Points To Learn Biblical Discernmentspiritntruth
Many professed believers do not know the Word of God nor do they know how to discern and therefore are in danger of being deceived. Here are 10 simple points to get one started.
www.nopews.blogspot.com
The document discusses the importance of studying the doctrine of the Trinity. It provides several reasons why the Trinity is central to Christianity, notably that it is necessary for the atoning work of Christ. Removing the Trinity would cause the Christian faith to disintegrate. The document also explores scriptural support for the Trinity and how each person of the Godhead was involved in salvation through Jesus's life, death and resurrection.
6. gospel of liberation in the book of galatians saved by graceSami Wilberforce
This document discusses the biblical doctrine of justification by faith alone. It explains that according to Scripture, such as Galatians 2:16, a person is justified, or made righteous, not by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. The law shows us our sinfulness and inability to be justified by works, so we must rely completely on Christ's righteousness. The document warns against any notion of earning salvation through works or merits, as that would undermine the free grace and finished work of Christ. It emphasizes that while human effort has no role in justification, cooperation with God is needed in sanctification after a person is justified.
This document is an introduction to a book about the laws of prosperity as taught by Kenneth Copeland. It provides background on Copeland's journey to understanding these laws from God's word. It describes Copeland's early struggles financially and how applying God's principles of faith and obedience to scripture helped turn their situation around. The introduction sets up the rest of the book to explain the laws of prosperity as facts based on the Bible, not just theories, and invites the reader to test these principles for themselves from God's word.
This document discusses putting off the old nature and putting on the new nature in Christ. It begins by explaining the need for true conversion that challenges people to crucify their old sinful nature. It then examines scriptures showing our destiny is to be transformed into Christ's image.
The document lays out foundations for change, including being raised with Christ so our lives reflect heaven's perspective, and being hidden and crucified with Christ so we put sin to death. It lists specific sins to put off, like sexual immorality and anger. Believers are to strip off these old habits like clothing.
The document urges putting on characteristics of the new nature, like mercy, kindness, humility and forgiveness. Wear
The document lists over 40 affirmations that describe who a believer is "in Christ". It affirms that believers are complete, alive, and free in Christ; have peace, wisdom, power, and righteousness through Him; can overcome all challenges with faith; and are called, forgiven, healed, and loved children of God.
The document lists over 40 affirmations that describe who a believer is "in Christ". It affirms that believers are complete, alive, and free in Christ; that Christ lives within them and they can do all things through Him; and that they have peace, wisdom, power over the enemy, and are heirs with Christ.
This document discusses the five types of baptism mentioned in the Bible: baptism of repentance, baptism into the body of Christ, baptism in water, baptism in the Holy Spirit, and baptism by fire. It provides details on the meaning and significance of each type of baptism, including that baptism of repentance involves confessing sins and turning to God, baptism into the body of Christ allows one to become born again, water baptism demonstrates faith in Christ, baptism in the Holy Spirit empowers believers, and baptism by fire involves passing through trials that purify believers.
Martin Luther argues that Christians can have assurance of their salvation based on three grounds: 1) The promises of Scripture that those who trust in Christ alone are saved. 2) The sanctifying work of the Spirit seen in the lives of believers. 3) The witness of the Spirit causing believers to cry "Abba, Father." Luther says this cry, though small, expresses the believer's knowledge that they are God's child through Christ. He urges believers to train their conscience to believe that God approves of them, despite doubts, based on Christ's righteousness.
This document discusses important questions about worship, including where worship originates, what worship is, what idolatry is, and how to nurture worship. It explains that God receives perfect worship within the Trinity, and that true worship entails glorifying and sacrificing for Jesus. Idolatry involves worshipping anything other than God, such as things God created or things humans created. The document provides steps to renew worship on personal, relational, missional, church, and structural levels in order to focus exclusively on worshipping God rather than any false idols.
This document is an excerpt from a book titled "I will walk in your truth" by Kayode Crown. It discusses what it means to walk in God's truth based on Psalm 86:11. Some key points made include:
- To walk in God's truth requires committing to obeying what God has revealed and changing relationships and lifestyle to align with God's ways.
- It may require leaving behind family or friends who do not respect God or his truth.
- Walking in God's truth also means committing to God's plans and purposes for one's life rather than one's own ambitions.
- It involves understanding and living out one's new identity and privileges as a child of God through faith in Jesus
The Bible is very clear as to what our purpose in this life should be. Men in both the Old and New Testaments sought for and discovered life’s purpose. Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, according to scripture, discovered the futility of life when it is lived only for this world. He gives these concluding remarks in the book of Ecclesiastes: 13 “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.
14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil”. - Ecclesiastes 12:13-14.
99 Jesus Used The Word to Focus People on LoveRick Peterson
Adapted from a Jeffery Anselmi sermon series https://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/5-jesus-used-the-word-to-focus-people-on-love-jeffery-anselmi-sermon-on-love-233078?ref=SermonSeriesDetails
The document provides a list of 20 things that the author believes children should know about God, humanity, Jesus, and the sacraments before receiving communion for the first time. The list includes basics such as: there is one God in three persons; God created everything; Jesus is both God and man; and in communion one receives the body and blood of Christ. The author explains that knowing these concepts will help children understand what they are doing when receiving communion and mean what they say. The document also provides context for some of the concepts on the list.
Already/although not yet, Empty promises, use non-biblical teachings to live...franktsao4
The document discusses problems with modern churches and proposes solutions to remedy these issues. It identifies potential problems as empty promises, use of non-biblical teachings, overemphasis on theory with no practical application, inability to discuss truth, and focus on building members rather than biblical teachings. The proposed solutions are to return to focusing on the Bible, individual discipleship, strong family values, Christianizing the church community, and spreading God's message to society. Specific bible verses and blog posts are referenced for further guidance on these topics. Contact information is provided to discuss joining disciple training sessions.
The document discusses the importance of applying biblical discernment when choosing a church. It says the key issues that should drive our choice are matters of doctrine regarding God, the Bible, and the gospel. It provides biblical support for the doctrine of God as one in three persons. It emphasizes that the Bible is the infallible rule of faith and outlines what the gospel teaches based on passages from 1 Corinthians - that Christ died for our sins and was resurrected. It stresses the centrality of the cross and gospel in the Christian life.
1) The document discusses three different mindsets - the Barbarian, Greek, and Hebrew mindsets.
2) The Barbarian mindset operates based on fear, the Greek mindset relies on human intellect and reason, while the Hebrew mindset trusts in God.
3) To develop a Hebrew mindset, the document recommends meditating on God's word daily and taking every thought captive to examine its source and alignment with scripture. Adopting a Hebrew mindset will lead to prosperity by learning to think as God thinks.
There are basically six forms or types of prayer. They all have specific ways they address needs, which means contrary to popular belief, God has set rules or if that word offends ones sensibilities, let’s say, guidelines to communicating with Him, ways of making these prayers function more effectively.
1) When claiming God's promises, we must carefully understand what the promises say without assumptions. God will meet our needs, not wants.
2) We must consider the context and premise of the promise. Philippians 4:19 refers to God meeting the Philippians' needs after they generously supported Paul's ministry.
3) To claim a promise requires practical faith that God created the universe and can do anything, but will provide according to His plans and purposes.
10 Points To Learn Biblical Discernmentspiritntruth
Many professed believers do not know the Word of God nor do they know how to discern and therefore are in danger of being deceived. Here are 10 simple points to get one started.
www.nopews.blogspot.com
The document discusses the importance of studying the doctrine of the Trinity. It provides several reasons why the Trinity is central to Christianity, notably that it is necessary for the atoning work of Christ. Removing the Trinity would cause the Christian faith to disintegrate. The document also explores scriptural support for the Trinity and how each person of the Godhead was involved in salvation through Jesus's life, death and resurrection.
6. gospel of liberation in the book of galatians saved by graceSami Wilberforce
This document discusses the biblical doctrine of justification by faith alone. It explains that according to Scripture, such as Galatians 2:16, a person is justified, or made righteous, not by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ. The law shows us our sinfulness and inability to be justified by works, so we must rely completely on Christ's righteousness. The document warns against any notion of earning salvation through works or merits, as that would undermine the free grace and finished work of Christ. It emphasizes that while human effort has no role in justification, cooperation with God is needed in sanctification after a person is justified.
This document is an introduction to a book about the laws of prosperity as taught by Kenneth Copeland. It provides background on Copeland's journey to understanding these laws from God's word. It describes Copeland's early struggles financially and how applying God's principles of faith and obedience to scripture helped turn their situation around. The introduction sets up the rest of the book to explain the laws of prosperity as facts based on the Bible, not just theories, and invites the reader to test these principles for themselves from God's word.
This document discusses putting off the old nature and putting on the new nature in Christ. It begins by explaining the need for true conversion that challenges people to crucify their old sinful nature. It then examines scriptures showing our destiny is to be transformed into Christ's image.
The document lays out foundations for change, including being raised with Christ so our lives reflect heaven's perspective, and being hidden and crucified with Christ so we put sin to death. It lists specific sins to put off, like sexual immorality and anger. Believers are to strip off these old habits like clothing.
The document urges putting on characteristics of the new nature, like mercy, kindness, humility and forgiveness. Wear
The document lists over 40 affirmations that describe who a believer is "in Christ". It affirms that believers are complete, alive, and free in Christ; have peace, wisdom, power, and righteousness through Him; can overcome all challenges with faith; and are called, forgiven, healed, and loved children of God.
The document lists over 40 affirmations that describe who a believer is "in Christ". It affirms that believers are complete, alive, and free in Christ; that Christ lives within them and they can do all things through Him; and that they have peace, wisdom, power over the enemy, and are heirs with Christ.
This document discusses the five types of baptism mentioned in the Bible: baptism of repentance, baptism into the body of Christ, baptism in water, baptism in the Holy Spirit, and baptism by fire. It provides details on the meaning and significance of each type of baptism, including that baptism of repentance involves confessing sins and turning to God, baptism into the body of Christ allows one to become born again, water baptism demonstrates faith in Christ, baptism in the Holy Spirit empowers believers, and baptism by fire involves passing through trials that purify believers.
The document discusses the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12:4-11. It divides the gifts into three categories: gifts of revelation which include word of wisdom, word of knowledge, and discerning of spirits. Gifts of power which include gifts of faith, working of miracles, and gifts of healings. Vocal gifts which include gift of tongues, interpretation of tongues, and prophecy. Throughout history, God has spoken to people through prophets, Jesus, and now through the Holy Spirit's vocal gifts. To be effective kingdom builders like Jesus and the disciples, believers must depend on the Holy Spirit's enabling grace.
This document provides a summary of key Christian concepts related to works and salvation. It discusses several Bible passages and argues that salvation is by God's grace through faith alone, not by works. The key points are:
1) Salvation is 100% dependent on God's grace and 0% on our good works. We are not justified by observing the law but by faith alone.
2) Good works do not earn salvation, which is a free gift from God. If we pursue salvation through works, we lose God's gift.
3) When we come to faith, the Holy Spirit changes our attitude so that we now hate sin and are eager to do God's will.
4) As Christians
The document is a Sunday school lesson discussing the righteousness of Christ that comes through faith. It makes three key points:
1) Imputed righteousness refers to God crediting believers with Christ's righteousness when they trust in Him for salvation. This is done without our participation.
2) Imparted righteousness refers to God empowering believers from within through faith to live righteously. This is done in us with our participation in the sanctification process.
3) Both imputed and imparted righteousness are necessary - we are declared righteous through imputation and transformed from within through impartation as we cooperate with the Holy Spirit.
This document argues that feminism is not from God and contradicts biblical teachings about gender roles. It defines feminism as seeking equal rights and opportunities for women, and says Satan has convinced women that God's design of distinct roles for men and women to be abhorred. It cites several Bible passages describing women as helpers to men and commanded to submit to their husbands. The document claims feminism undermines this by having women neglect their home responsibilities and seek careers outside the home. It concludes that modern feminism destroys God's beautiful plan and encourages women to study Scripture to understand God's perfect design.
2013 Book of Mormon: Chapter 14 (Institute Lesson by hgellor)Leah Gellor
This document provides doctrinal teachings from 2 Nephi 31-33 regarding the doctrine of Christ and faith in Jesus Christ. It discusses that the doctrine of Christ leads to eternal life, the words of Christ and the Holy Ghost teach us what to do, and those who believe in Jesus Christ will also believe the words of Nephi. It then expands on key aspects of the doctrine of Christ, including faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism by immersion, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost.
The document is a summary of a sermon discussing the difference between imputed and imparted righteousness. It explains that imputed righteousness refers to God crediting believers with Christ's righteousness based on faith alone at salvation. Imparted righteousness refers to the righteous nature implanted within believers by the Holy Spirit that transforms them from within through sanctification. Both are necessary - one is declared, the other is developed through cooperation with the Spirit.
This document provides a summary of Lesson 10 from a series on evangelism and witnessing. The lesson discusses different motivations for evangelism, explaining that the right motivation is love for God in response to His love and grace, rather than guilt, obligation, or debt. It warns against legalism and working to earn salvation through obedience. True freedom comes through surrender to God as His slaves. Maintaining enthusiasm and focus are important to keep ministries on track. The lesson encourages studying it using the ADAPT method of associating with truth, discovering what the Bible says, applying it to life, planning to use it, and transferring it to daily living.
This document provides an outline and summary of a sermon given on 2 Peter 1:1-11. The key points are:
1. In knowing Christ, believers have everything they need for life and growth. They partake in Christ's divine nature through the Holy Spirit and escape sin's corruption.
2. Believers must actively pursue spiritual maturity by supplementing their faith with virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, kindness, and love.
3. Pursuing growth confirms one's salvation and prevents being ineffective. Neglecting growth makes one spiritually blind and forgetful of salvation.
This talk was given during the Purpose Driven Life Seminar at The Our Lady of Mercy Parish, Novaliches, Quezon City on May 31, 2014...Disclaimer - some of the contents of the slides is not owned by the uploader but was only used for the seminar purposes...thank you
The document outlines several next steps for new believers: get baptized as an outward sign of faith, find a good local church to help you grow, develop regular Bible reading and prayer, participate in serving others through the church community, worship God and participate in his mission to spread the gospel. The overall message encourages growing closer to God through these spiritual disciplines and practices.
This document provides an outline and summary of 2 Peter 1:1-11 from a sermon given at First Baptist Church in Jackson, Mississippi on November 6, 2016. The summary includes:
1. In the first 4 verses, Peter explains that through knowing Christ, believers have everything needed for life and godliness, including escaping corruption and partaking in God's divine nature.
2. Verses 5-11 outline 7 qualities (faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, love) that believers must actively pursue to supplement their faith and experience spiritual growth.
3. Pursuing these qualities will lead to effectiveness, assurance of salvation, and a "rich welcome"
1) Biblical "good works" encompass every aspect of a believer's thinking and conduct before God, not just good deeds. They result from having faith in Christ.
2) Good works are a Christian's love offering to God and witness to unsaved people. They glorify God and can lead others to faith in Christ.
3) Good works were prepared by God beforehand and are part of his eternal plan. They should be done to please Christ, not oneself, and to be a blessing and example to other believers.
Simon Peter writes to encourage Christians to make every effort to grow in spiritual maturity by adding virtues to their faith. These virtues include courage, knowledge of God's word, self-control, patience, godliness, kindness toward fellow believers, and the highest virtue of love. As Christians exhibit these godly qualities, they are transformed by the divine nature and able to withstand worldly corruption.
2015.02.01 practice spiritual disciplines to overflow be filled with the ho...Deliahabagat
The document provides information about being filled with the Holy Spirit based on a church service. It discusses:
1) Jesus' command in Acts 1:8 to receive power from the Holy Spirit and be witnesses, sharing the gospel boldly everywhere.
2) How the Holy Spirit empowers Christians with boldness, wisdom, faith, and joy to effectively witness for Christ.
3) The need to be filled with the Holy Spirit to obey God and do his will in all relationships, including making disciples of others.
The document outlines a Bible study on spiritual discipleship presented by The Discipleship Ministry. The study is intended to help Christians live spiritually by understanding that they have both a sinful fleshly nature and a reborn spiritual nature through Christ. It examines key passages in Romans and Galatians about living by the Spirit rather than the flesh in order to fulfill God's purpose and plan for one's life as a disciple of Christ.
This is a study of Jesus being no respecter of persons. He treated all people with equal respect and care and did not have any prejudice against certain people that made Him treat them differently.
The document is a message from the coordinator of the 2016 Uyo Diocesan Youth Camp. It begins by welcoming the Archbishop and thanking various church leaders for their support. It then introduces the camp theme of "Chosen to Bear Fruit" from John 15:16. The message defines fruit, provides background on the biblical text, and outlines topics for discussion including what fruit is, how to bear fruit by abiding in Christ, and that fruit should remain. It emphasizes that God chooses believers and calls them to bear the fruits of righteousness, the Holy Spirit, praise, and more for His glory. The conclusion is that Christ wants fruit, not just works, as a freewill offering of love.
This document discusses purity and maintaining purity in various areas of life. It addresses purity in one's thoughts, words, actions, manners, motives and message. Some key points made include that purity involves both outward morality and inward sincerity before God. True purity begins with acknowledging sins to God. One must also maintain purity in their thought life by focusing on godly things rather than worldly entertainment. Purity of words and motives are also discussed, emphasizing speaking truthfully and ministering to please God rather than people. The document encourages maintaining faith in God during difficulties and living in a way that glorifies Him.
Jesus was why we thank god for everythingGLENN PEASE
This document provides commentary on Ephesians 5:20 from multiple sources. It discusses the duty of giving thanks always for all things to God. Some key points made:
1. Thanksgiving should be offered at all times, not just during worship or on special occasions. Christians have greater reasons for joy and gratitude than melancholy, even in difficult times.
2. We are to be thankful for all things, including everyday blessings, troubles which may be blessings in disguise, and blessings we have yet to receive. Thanking God recognizes that all good gifts come from Him.
3. Thanksgiving must be given sincerely from the heart, in recognition of God's fatherly love and our dependence on Him. It should be
This document provides a summary and copyright notice for a book on living a victorious Christian life. It states that the article is copyrighted by Zac Poonen in 1982 to prevent misuse. Permission is given to distribute the article for free if it is not altered and the author is credited. The document then lists the chapter titles of the book, which cover topics like faith, God's control over circumstances, and God's love for believers like he loved Jesus.
Heartfulness Magazine - June 2024 (Volume 9, Issue 6)heartfulness
Dear readers,
This month we continue with more inspiring talks from the Global Spirituality Mahotsav that was held from March 14 to 17, 2024, at Kanha Shanti Vanam.
We hear from Daaji on lifestyle and yoga in honor of International Day of Yoga, June 21, 2024. We also hear from Professor Bhavani Rao, Dean at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, on spirituality in action, the Venerable BhikkuSanghasena on how to be an ambassador for compassion, Dr. Tony Nader on the Maharishi Effect, Swami Mukundananda on the crossroads of modernization, Tejinder Kaur Basra on the purpose of work, the Venerable GesheDorjiDamdul on the psychology of peace, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, on how we are all related, and world-renowned violinist KumareshRajagopalan on the uplifting mysteries of music.
Dr. Prasad Veluthanar shares an Ayurvedic perspective on treating autism, Dr. IchakAdizes helps us navigate disagreements at work, Sravan Banda celebrates World Environment Day by sharing some tips on land restoration, and Sara Bubber tells our children another inspiring story and challenges them with some fun facts and riddles.
Happy reading,
The editors
A Free eBook ~ Valuable LIFE Lessons to Learn ( 5 Sets of Presentations)...OH TEIK BIN
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Protector & Destroyer: Agni Dev (The Hindu God of Fire)Exotic India
So let us turn the pages of ancient Indian literature and get to know more about Agni, the mighty purifier of all things, worshipped in Indian culture as a God since the Vedic time.
The Book of Ruth is included in the third division, or the Writings, of the Hebrew Bible. In most Christian canons it is treated as one of the historical books and placed between Judges and 1 Samuel.
A375 Example Taste the taste of the Lord, the taste of the Lord The taste of...franktsao4
It seems that current missionary work requires spending a lot of money, preparing a lot of materials, and traveling to far away places, so that it feels like missionary work. But what was the result they brought back? It's just a lot of photos of activities, fun eating, drinking and some playing games. And then we have to do the same thing next year, never ending. The church once mentioned that a certain missionary would go to the field where she used to work before the end of his life. It seemed that if she had not gone, no one would be willing to go. The reason why these missionary work is so difficult is that no one obeys God’s words, and the Bible is not the main content during missionary work, because in the eyes of those who do not obey God’s words, the Bible is just words and cannot be connected with life, so Reading out God's words is boring because it doesn't have any life experience, so it cannot be connected with human life. I will give a few examples in the hope that this situation can be changed. A375
The Hope of Salvation - Jude 1:24-25 - MessageCole Hartman
Jude gives us hope at the end of a dark letter. In a dark world like today, we need the light of Christ to shine brighter and brighter. Jude shows us where to fix our focus so we can be filled with God's goodness and glory. Join us to explore this incredible passage.
Trusting God's Providence | Verse: Romans 8: 28-31JL de Belen
Trusting God's Providence.
Providence - God’s active preservation and care over His creation. God is both the Creator and the Sustainer of all things Heb. 1:2-3; Col. 1:17
-God keep His promises.
-God’s general providence is toward all creation
- All things were made through Him
God’s special providence is toward His children.
We may suffer now, but joy can and will come
God can see what we cannot see
The Enchantment and Shadows_ Unveiling the Mysteries of Magic and Black Magic...Phoenix O
This manual will guide you through basic skills and tasks to help you get started with various aspects of Magic. Each section is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions.
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The Book of Samuel is a book in the Hebrew Bible, found as two books in the Old Testament. The book is part of the Deuteronomistic history, a series of books that constitute a theological history of the Israelites and that aim to explain God's law for Israel under the guidance of the prophets.
The forces involved in this witchcraft spell will re-establish the loving bond between you and help to build a strong, loving relationship from which to start anew. Despite any previous hardships or problems, the spell work will re-establish the strong bonds of friendship and love upon which the marriage and relationship originated. Have faith, these stop divorce and stop separation spells are extremely powerful and will reconnect you and your partner in a strong and harmonious relationship.
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Understanding god
1. UNDERSTANDING GOD'S GRACE
Part 1 - Grace Vs. Performance
I. Introduction.
This portion of the study is about the importance of continuing to walk in God's grace
after) initial experience of God's wonderful work of grace in your lives. You say, "That's
what I have been doing?" "What's the big deal?"
I believe many of us fail to walk in the fullness of God's grace and often revert back to
walking in a spirit of condemnation and guilt, which leads to a performance based walk,
because we fail to understand reality of a continuous walk in God's grace.
Galatians 3:3 Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made
perfect by flesh?
Galatians 3:3 Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to
attain your goal through human effort? (NIV)
This is a common problem that exists among all Christians, regardless of our doctrinal
background because of our human nature, something of which we all share in common.
To get an idea of what I am talking about, let me ask all of you a question. If you knew
you only one month to live, how would you prepare yourself to meet the Lord during that
month? Would you pray harder? Would you memorize more scripture? Would you read
your Bible more? Would you involved in more spiritual works? Would you give more
money and get your tithes up-to-date? Will you witness to everyone you see? Or would
you repent of every bad habit and sin that you could think of? If your answer was yes to
these questions, you are a performance based Christian who is trying work to gain
2. God's favor. These are all good things to do, but this isn't what God expects from us to
gain His favor.
There is no amount of work you can do to earn any more of God's favor. His favor has
already been granted to your through His grace which is a free gift.
My question for you is, "Are you living by grace or are you living by performance?"
Galatians 5:4 You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified
by law; you have fallen from grace.
II. Our Need For God's Grace.
Before we go too far in this, let's take a look at our need for God's grace and the
provision that He made for our fallen sin nature.
1. Our Condition Prior To Our Salvation Experience.
Romans 3:10-12 As it is written: "There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none
who understand there is none who seeks after God. They have all gone out of the way;
they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does good, no, not one. "
Isaiah 64:6 But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like
filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely
by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.
3. 2. God's Answer to Our Need.
Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still
sinners, Christ died for us.
Ephesians 2:8-10 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of
yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His
workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand
that we should walk in them.
Definition of Grace: Grace is God's free and unmerited favor shown to guilty sinners
who deserve only judgment. It is the love of God shown to the unlovely. It is God
reaching downward to people who are in rebellion against Him. (Jerry Bridges -
Author of "Transforming Grace")
III. Living in God's Kingdom By Grace.
When we came to Christ, we recognized our need for His grace and love and had no
problem accepting what He had to offer because of our helpless condition. But how
many of us continue to live in this helpless condition, being totally dependent upon His
grace and sufficiency to cover our lives?
Galatians 3:3 Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to
attain your goal through human effort? (NIV)
If we came into God's kingdom by grace, we must also live in it by grace. If we couldn't
get into God's kingdom by good works, good works will not sustain us either.
1. We Must Be Continually Motivated By Grace.
4. Philippians 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work
in you [by His grace] will [will also by His grace] complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;
We are brought into God's kingdom by grace; we are sanctified by grace; we are
motivated by grace; we are called to serve by grace; we receive strength to endure trials
by grace; and we are glorified by grace. The entire Christian life is lived under the reign
of God's grace.
Being motivated by grace means that we realize that it isn't our spiritual disciplines and
works that earns us God's favor and blessings in our lives. This all continues to flow
from His riches in grace, whether we deserve it or not.
There are many godly spiritual disciplines that we all need to be involved in of which are
often constituted as our spiritual works. Things such as regular church attendance, daily
devotions, Bible study, prayer, fasting, scripture memorization, witnessing, and giving of
tithes & offerings are all good and important Christian activities. The question is, do you
do these things to earn God's favor or do you do them in response to His love and
grace?
What happens if I forget to pray or fail God? Does that mean I go through the whole day
with God ignoring me and not desiring to use me? A person who is secure in God's love
and grace doesn't get blown out of the saddle when they fail or something goes wrong.
They get back up and go one like nothing has happened. They confess and forsake
their sin and go on, secure in God's love and grace.
Proverbs 24:16 for a righteous man may fall seven times and rise again, but the
wicked shall fall by calamity.
Hebrews 4:14-16 Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed
through the heavens,
5. Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest
who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are,
yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain
mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
2. Our Works Are A Result Of Walking In God's Grace.
Ephesians 2:9-10 ...not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His
workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand
that we should walk in them.
The truth of the matter is that our works are an indicator as to how we are responding to
God's love and grace. If we are doing things out of guilt, to please and appease others,
we are performance oriented.
If we are doing things out of a godly response to God's love & grace, we are operating
under His grace.
James 1:25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is
not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.
The true work that God has for each one of our lives can only be released through His
grace. When we are looking into the perfect law of liberty we find the spiritual work that
God gives us to do is somehow a part of our overall calling and gifting in Him.
3. God's Blessings Flow Through His Grace, Not Our Performance.
All of God's blessings and riches flow through His grace and if we are walking as a
performance based Christian we have actually fallen from grace and are losing our
inheritance in Him as well. That's why so many Christians live unproductive lives.
Ephesians 2:7 that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His
grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
When Jesus paid it all, He not only purchased your forgiveness of sins and your ticket to
heaven, He purchased every blessing and every answer to prayer you will ever receive.
6. 1 John 3:22 And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His
commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.
The most important commandment that God has given to us, is to love Him with all our
heart, mind and soul.
IV. Trying To Live In God's Kingdom By Performance.
Performance oriented people work for God's approval. They think they must constantly
earn God's approval, so they find themselves getting involved in lots of things that may
not even be the will of God for their lives. God's true giftings can never be recognized,
because they are looking to their own means and sufficiency for motivation in the
kingdom.
Galatians 3:3 Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to
attain your goal through human effort? (NIV)
Most of us are legalistic by nature, we innately think so much performance by us earns
much favor and blessing from God.
Peter had this same attitude when he said to Jesus in Matthew 19:27, "We have left
everything to follow you. Therefore what shall we have?"
Peter had already added up his merit points, and he wanted to know how much reward
they would buy. Jesus answer to him was, "many who are first will be last, and the last
first."
Jesus then goes on to teach on the "Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard," which is a
parable that deals with this whole issue of performance vs. grace.
The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard - Matthew 20:1-16
The people in the parable who were chosen first had added up their merit points just as
Peter had, and when they found out they were not be rewarded on those terms they
were upset.
There are rewards that we will receive for our labors, but if our motivation is self serving
and not provoked by a response to God's love and grace, we will probably lose our
rewards..
If you were to do a study on rewards in the Bible the one common denominator you
would find would be that of humility. Matthew 10:42, Luke 6:35, Romans 2:8-11, and
Ephesians 6:5-9.
Proverbs 22:4 By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches and honor and life.
7. 1 Corinthians 3:13-15 each one's work will become manifest; for the Day will declare it,
because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it
is. If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. If
anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as
through fire.
If we are doing things out of guilt, shame, eye service, as men-pleasers or some other
self-serving motive we are performance based people who have fallen from the
workings of God's grace and as a result we do not inherit the blessings that are entitled
to us in the kingdom. When we fail we are guilt ridden and full of condemnation, thinking
God hates us and is mad at us, instead of receiving the forgiveness and security that
comes from abiding under His grace.
Let us all determine to be motivated by God's grace and love, which will produce in us
the godly character and good works that He is desiring in our lives.
Romans 2:10-11 but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to
the Jew first and also to the Greek. For there is no partiality with God.
Pt 2 - God's Grace In Holiness & Sanctification
8. I. Introductory Remarks.
This portion of the study deals with God's grace in relationship to our holiness and
sanctification.
We will be examining the idea that God in His grace sees us as perfectly holy in Christ.
God in His grace sends His Holy Spirit to create a new heart within us and to write His
law on our hearts, thus changing our basic character traits. And then we will see that
God in His grace continues to work in us through His Spirit to transform us more and
more into the likeness of His Son.
Ephesians 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has
blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He
chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without
blame before Him in love... to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He has
made us accepted in the Beloved.
My goal in this portion of the study is to simply show us how we are continually
accepted by our Father God, because of the grace that has been poured into our lives
through Jesus Christ. Often times when we look at our sinful condition that still seems to
exist no matter how hard we try, we find ourselves in a battle over God's acceptance of
us.
Hebrews 10:9-10 ... then He said, "Behold, I have come to do Your will, 0 God. " He
takes away the first that He may establish the second. By that will we have been
sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
II. Holiness Is A Gift Of God's Grace.
9. When we consider that God wants us to be perfect and without blame it's important for
us to understand that holiness is a gift of God's grace as much as our salvation
experience in him was.
To live by grace is to live solely by the merit of Jesus Christ. To live by grace is to base
my entire relationship with God, including my acceptance and standing with Him, on my
union with Christ. It is to recognize that in myself I bring nothing of worth to my
relationship with God, because even my righteous acts are like filthy rags in His sight.
Even my best works are stained with mixed motives and imperfect performance. I never
truly love God with all my heart, and I never truly love my neighbor with the degree or
consistency with which I love myself.
(Jerry Bridges - Author of Transforming Grace)
The Bible speaks of both a holiness we already possess in Christ before God and a
holiness in which we are to grow more and more. The first is the result of the work of
Christ. The second is a result of the work of the Holy Spirit in us. The first is perfect and
complete and is ours the moment we trust Christ. The second is progressive and
incomplete until the day of perfection.
Hebrews 10:14 For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being
sanctified.
In one aspect of sanctification we are already Holy because of Christ's holiness being
imputed unto us. We have been made perfect forever. In another aspect we are being
made holy day by day through the work of the Holy Spirit imparting the life of Christ to
us.
III. The Holiness We Possess In Christ Before God.
As we have already seen there are two kinds of holiness. There is the holiness we
already possess in Christ before God and there is the holiness in which we are to grow
more and more in. This second aspect of holiness is progressive and incomplete until
the day of perfection. Let's take a look at the Holiness we possess in Christ before God.
10. 1 Corinthians 1:30 But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom
from God; and righteousness and sanctification and redemption.
Jesus has become our righteousness, holiness, and redemption. We understand that
Christ is our righteousness and the basis for our justification. But He is also our
holiness. The truth is that all believers are sanctified in Christ, even as we are justified in
Christ.
Through justification we are forgiven and are declared righteous in the courtroom of
God's justice. Through the perfect holiness we have in Christ, our moral filth is removed,
and we become fit to enter into the very presence of an infinitely holy God and enjoy
fellowship with Him.
Colossians 1:22 And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by
wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to
present you holy, and blameless, and irreproachable in His sight.
Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain
mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
How can we who are not only guilty but morally filthy possibly be holy in the sight God,
who knows our every motive and though as well as our words and actions? The answer
is that because of our union with Christ, God sees His holiness as our holiness.
When our Father looks at us, He does not see our miserable performance. Instead, He
sees the perfect performance of Jesus. And because of the perfect holiness of Jesus,
He sees us as holy and without blemish.
IV. Grace To Grow In Holiness.
11. Now that we have seen that we possess a holiness in Christ that enables us to
continually come into the throne of God's grace let's look at the holiness that we grow in
through God's grace.
Sanctification or Holiness in us begins as an instantaneous act of the Holy Spirit and is
carried forward by His continued action in our lives. It takes a deposit of God's grace to
continue to grow in this progressive sanctification. We cannot do it on our own.
2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of
the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the
Spirit of the Lord.
This scripture explains to us the progressive nature of our sanctification and holiness. It
is also the work of the Holy Spirit, but it involves a response on our part so that we as
believers are actively involved in the process.
God does not bring us into His kingdom then leave us on our own to grow. he continues
to work in our lives to conform us more to the likeness of His Son.
2 Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves
from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
1. Through God's Grace He Creates A New Heart Within Us.
Ezekiel 36:26-27 "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; will take
the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. "I will put My Spirit
within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and
do them.
12. It is God who puts His own Spirit within us and moves us to follow His decrees. God
gives us a growing desire to obey Him. We no longer have an aversion to God's
commands, even though we may not always obey them.
Psalms 40:8 I delight to do Your will, 0 my God, And Your law is within my heart.
Romans 7:22 "For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man.
We find that His commandments are not burdensome as it says in 1 John 5:3, but rather
are "are holy, righteous and good" as it says in Romans 7:12.
Submission to God's law arises out of a love for God and a grateful response to His
grace and is based on a delight in His law as revealed in scripture.
2. It Is God Who Works And Wills In Us To Act According To His Purpose.
Philippians 2:12-13 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my
presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with
fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good
pleasure.
Paul's strong exhortation to the Philippians was based on the confidence that God's
Spirit was working in them. He is working in them to enlighten their understanding of His
will, to stimulate in their emotions as desire to do His will, and to turn their wills so that
they actually obey and then He gives the enabling power to do His will.
Progressive sanctification very much involves our activity, but it is an activity that must
be carried out in dependence on the Holy Spirit.
13. 3. The Christlike Character We Are To Grow Into.
When we take seriously the long lists of Christlike character traits we are to put on, as
well as the negative traits we must put off, we see how impossible it is to grow in
Christlikeness apart from the sanctifying influence and power of the Spirit in our lives.
Galatians 5:2-23
Love
Joy
Peace
Patience
Goodness
Faithfulness
Self Control
Colossians 3:12-15
Compassion
Humility
Kindness
Gentleness
Forbearance
Forgiveness
Thankfulness
14. The important thing to keep in mind is that all of these Christlike character traits are
called the "fruit of the Spirit"--the result of the Spirit's work in our lives. This means we
are both responsible and dependent. We are responsible to clothe ourselves with
Christlike character, but we are dependent on God's Spirit to produce within us His
"fruit." Our response is always obedience to God's Spirit.
Part 3 - Grace Is Freedom & Liberty In Christ
1. Introductory Remarks.
In this portion of the study I want to address the issue of our freedom in Christ and how
it is a delicate balance that we must endeavor to walk in at all times.
Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and
do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
In the book of Galatians the apostle Paul deals with two very important aspects of
walking in God's grace. He deals with the issue of legalism and the issue of walking in
the lusts of the flesh. When the Christian fails to walk in the beauty of God's grace these
are the two extremes that he either finds himself walking in. Both areas are yokes of
bondage that we must avoid.
Christians sometimes find themselves walking in either of two extremes in this area.
They either turn the grace of God into licentious, which is a total regard for any rules
whatsoever or they turn the grace of God into a legalistic walk that is full of rules and
regulations.
15. 1. Defining Licentiousness Behavior.
Jude 1:4 For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for
this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into licentiousness and
deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ.
Vines Expository dictionary defines Licentiousness or lasciviousness as excess,
absence of restraint, indecency, and wantonness. Websters dictionary defines it as lewd
and lawless behavior. Other words to describe this behavior are debauched,
promiscuous, carnal, lustful, indecent, obscene and smutty. This is what happens when
one takes the grace of God and uses it as a license to sin.
2. Defining Legalistic Behavior.
Legalism is anything we do or don't do in order to earn favor with God. It is concerned
with rewards to be gained or penalties to be avoided. It consists of conformity to
manmade religious rules, which are often unspoken, but nevertheless very real.
Mark 7:6-8 He answered and said to them, "Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites,
as it is written: 'This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And
in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' "For laying
aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men; the washing of pitchers
and cups, and many other such things you do."
As already mentioned, these are the two extremes that God wants us to avoid as we
seek to walk in the beauty of His grace. Neither one of these areas represent the Grace
of God. The persons who are caught up in these bondages do not understand the
meaning and the purpose of God's grace in our lives. Let's look more closely to God's
word concerning these two extremes.
II. God's Word Concerning Licentious Behavior.
16. Again, licentiousness or lasciviousness is an excess or absence of restraint. It is
indecency, and wantonness and a total disregard for any rules whatsoever. It is a
conduct of habitual sinful behavior.
1. The Grace Of God Teaches Us To Deny Ungodliness.
It is important for us to understand that the grace of God actually teaches us to deny
ungodliness and to slive soberly and righteous in this world rather than continuing in the
old sinful nature.
Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men,
teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly,
righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious
appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He
might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special
people, zealous for good works.
Romans 6:1-3 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may
abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Or do you not
know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His
death?
If we have truly been born again, we should be dead to sin and alive to God and His
grace working in our lives to produce the fruit of His Spirit rather than the lusts of the
flesh.
17. 2. He Who Continues To Practice Sin Does Not Know God.
1 John 3:6-7Whoever abides in Him does not sin. Whoever sins has neither seen Him
nor known Him. Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness
is righteous, just as He is righteous.
When I talk about one who continues to sin, I am talking about one who has never come
to repentance, but has turned the grace of God into a license to continue in his sin. He
has no desire to quit sinning, because he has never really been born again. If we have
truly been born again, the Holy Spirit in us causes us to hate and despise sin to the
degree that we want to repent of it, not continue to wallow in it. The operative word in
the above passage is "practice". We find this again in the passage in Galatians
concerning the works of the flesh. The word "practice" speaks of habitual behavior.
Galatians 5:21...just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things
will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Galatians 5:24 And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions
and desires.
III. Avoiding Legalism.
The other extreme that Christians sometimes find themselves in is that of walking in
legalism which nullifies the grace of God. To counteract the sinfulness of Licentious
behavior, some in Christian ministry have fallen into legalism. It has been taught, either
directly or implicitly, that God's grace is conditional, that there is a degree to which it is
based on our performance. There has been an undue focus on God's law and ridiculing
of liberty. The freedom set forth in Galatians is not freedom from God, but from those
who insist on some form of legalism in the life of a believer.
Galatians 5:4 You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified
by law; you have fallen from grace.
18. Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and
do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
Legalism is anything we do or don't do in order to earn favor with God. It is concerned
with rewards to be gained or penalties to be avoided. It consists of conformity to
manmade religious rules, which are often unspoken, but nevertheless very real.
Legalism requires conformity to the "do's and don'ts" of our particular Christian circle.
We try to force this legalism on others or allow others to force it on us. It is conformity to
how other people think we should live instead of how the Bible tells us to live. Like the
Pharisees of Jesus' time, we have tried to help God by adding our man made rules to
His commands. Jesus' charge against the Pharisees, is still valid today.
There are many ways in which we have tendency to fall into legalism. We build fences
to keep ourselves from committing certain sins. Soon the fences become the issue
rather than the sin. Differing opinions also cause legalism. Eg. makeup, music, movies,
tv. holidays, eating, etc.
Romans 14:5 One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every
day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind.
Legalism happens when we try to enforce our convictions on others for the sake of
conformity and acceptance.
Charles Swindoll told of a missionary family who literally were forced off the mission
field over peanut butter. They were sent to a location where peanut butter was not
available, so they asked friends back in the States to occasionally send them some. The
problem was that the other missionaries considered it a mark of spirituality not to have
peanut butter. But the pressure from the other missionaries to conform became so
intense, the newer family finally gave up and left the mission field.
IV. True Freedom And Liberty.
19. John 8:36 "Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.
God has called us unto freedom and liberty and desires for us to walk in the fullness of
His grace experiencing great liberty and freedom.
Romans 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the
law of sin and death.
Galatians 5:13 For you, brethren, have been called to liberty,' only do not use liberty as
an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
James 1:25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is
not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.
When you focus on grace in the fullness of its meaning, you will keep the law, liberty,
and love in their proper relationship to one another. But if you focus on anyone them
instead of grace, you will invariably end up in legalism or licentiousness.
Part 4 - Appropriating God's Grace
I. Introductory Remarks.
In this final part of the study on God's grace I want to take a look at some of the
practicalities of appropriating God's grace in our lives.
20. 2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you,
always having all sufficiency in all things, have an abundance for every good work.
This is a powerful promise to us in God's word concerning His grace towards us. This
means no matter what the situation we are going through, no matter what the problem
we are dealing with and no matter what the task we are involved in, God's grace and
sufficiency will be there to sustain us and help us in all that we put our hand to do.
2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ,
and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.
Philippians 2:12-13 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my
presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with
fear and trembling,' for it is God who works in vou both to will and to do for His good
pleasure.
Grace Defined:
The grace of God involves more than the dimension of it simply being God's unmerited
favor towards us. It is also God's divine enabling through His Spirit. Through God's
grace we are enabled to cope with whatever adversity, trial, or dilemma we face in a
godly manner. We are also equipped by His grace to perform the spiritual tasks He
gives us to do.
With this in mind let's look at some of the keys to practically appropriating God's grace
in our lives. In other words let's look at what it will take for us to seize or capture His
grace in our lives.