Bible Topics - English (LTM Series)

Bible Topics Series – English

Introduction

“I hear of God speaking to men and women in the past, but, does He still speak today?” “How can I hear His voice?”

These questions echo a desire that many persons have today, to hear from God; to know what His will is for their lives. If they could only hear His voice and know what He has to say, it would bring them joy and peace.

In this Bible Study Lesson, we will look at the matter of how God speaks to us and how we can hear His voice today.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand how God reveals His will to man through the Bible
Identify at least three reasons the Bible was given to us
Review the biblical evidences and take a decision to read and obey the words of God through the Bible

Recommended Readings

2 Timothy 3
2 Peter 1:19-21
Revelation 1:1-3

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1
In what ways does God reveal His will to His people? Hebrews 1:1, 2

[ ] Only through His prophets
[ ] Only through His Son
[ ] Both through His prophets and through His Son
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: God revealed His will to His people through the prophets and apostles (whose writings we have in the Bible) and through His Son Jesus Christ. God has also made Himself known through nature—the things that are created (Romans 1:19, 20; Psalm 19:1-6).

Question #2

By what means did God communicate His messages to the prophets? Numbers 12:6

[ ] Visions and dreams
[ ] Visions only
[ ] Dreams only
[ ] Through the Bible

NOTE: God communicated His messages to the prophets through visions and dreams. The Holy Spirit inspired the prophets with the heavenly visions with the help of angels (see 2 Peter 1:19-21; Revelation 1:1-3).

Question #3

The words of the prophets are considered to be the words of God. 2 Samuel 23:1, 2

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: The prophets and apostles were God’s messengers; the words that they spoke were to be accepted as the words of God (1 Thessalonians 2:13).

Question #4

How were the words of the Prophets preserved for other generations, including our own? Jeremiah 30:1, 2

[ ] Through ‘oral tradition’
[ ] The prophets wrote down some of what the Lord told them
[ ] Through modern technology
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: Some of the messages that the prophets and apostles received were written down in books or on whatever writing materials that were available in order to preserve them for other generations (see Romans 15:4). The compilation of the writings of the prophets is what makes up the Bible that we have today or the Holy Scriptures (see Luke 1:1-3; Luke 4:17; Revelation 1:18, 19).

Question #5

How much of the writings of Scripture were inspired by God? 2 Peter 1:20, 21

[ ] Most of the writings of Scripture were inspired by God
[ ] Some of the writings of Scripture were inspired by God
[ ] All of the writings of Scripture were inspired by God
[ ] None of the above

Question #6

Which of the following is NOT a reason for which God has given us the Scriptures? John 20:30, 31, 2 Timothy 3:16, 17 and Romans 15:4,

[ ] So that we might know Jesus and believe in Him for salvation
[ ] To instruct us in the way of righteousness
[ ] To inspire us with hope and confidence in the promises of God
[ ] To give us an understanding of how people lived in Bible times

NOTE: The Bible was not written merely to give knowledge about the past. It was written to tell us about Jesus and what He has done for us (in dying to take away our sins), so that we can believe in Him and be saved. Jesus is the central theme of the Bible (see John 5:39, 40). The Bible was written to give us instructions in the way of righteousness. The Bible was also written to give hope and comfort to those who seek to live a godly life. The past experiences of how God delivers His people and are faithful to His promises are written in the Bible to give hope to those who trust in Him today.

Question #7

Which one of these does NOT apply to what the Bereans teaches us about how to study the Scriptures? Acts 17:11

[ ] It does not take much effort to understand the Bible
[ ] We need to approach the Scripture with a willingness to accept what we learn
[ ] The Scriptures are to be studied daily (often) in order to get the best results
[ ] Diligence is required for better understanding of the Bible

NOTE: The Scripture is to be studied diligently and often (daily) in order to get the full understanding of what it is saying. The Bible should be used as its own interpreter, in that Scripture should be used to explain Scripture (see Isaiah 28:10).

Question #8

Which of the following statement is TRUE? John 16:12, 13

a. [ ] The Holy Spirit helps us to understand the Scriptures

b. [ ] The Holy Spirit helps us to understand some of the Scriptures

c. [ ] All of the above

d. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: The Holy Spirit, who inspired the prophets is the One who is appointed to help us to understand what the prophets wrote. That is why prayer is such an important part of Bible study. For without the help of the Holy Spirit, there is little that we can understand of the Scriptures (see 1 Corinthians 2:13-15).

Question #9

The ultimate aim of studying the Bible is to understand and obey the word of God? Matthew 7:24 and James 1:21, 22

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: To study the Scriptures without obeying it will not benefit us in any way. The most important part of Bible study is to obey what we understand from what God is saying to us. This is the only way to be “sanctified by the truth” (John 17:17).

Question #10 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief/commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I acknowledge that it is my duty to love God and obey all of His commandments.
[ ] I believe that God has provided the strength needed for me to obey His commandments.
[ ] I pledge that, by the grace of God, I will live my life in harmony with His commandments.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, transform my heart, so that I can live by your commandments”?

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers:

#1 c #2 a #3 a #4 b #5 c #6 d #7 a #8 a #9 a #10 (any response is correct).

Introduction:

Recently there has been a rise in predictions about and interest in the subject of the end of the world. Based on what is happening in the world, in terms of the economy, climate change, moral conditions and national conflicts, it should be no surprise that people have a focused interest in the matter of the end of the world. In this Lesson, we will be taking a look at the Bible’s answer to questions about the end of the world. Some of the questions that we will be seeking to answer are, “when will this world end?” “Is the end of the world very close?”

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand how to interpret the signs that Jesus gave to indicate the nearness and certainty of His second coming and the end of the world.
Understand how to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus

Recommended Readings

Matthew 24:1-30
2 Timothy 3:1-12

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

Which one of these is NOT among the questions that the disciples asked Jesus, while they were on the Mount of Olives? Matthew 24:3

[ ] When shall these things (referring to the destruction of Jerusalem) be?
[ ] What will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the world?
[ ] What is the date of your coming?
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: In response to a comment that Jesus made about the destruction of Jerusalem, the disciples asked Jesus a two-fold question, “when shall these things be?” (That is, ‘when will Jerusalem be destroyed?’) And ‘what are the signs of thy coming and the end of the world?’ The disciples imagined that the destruction of Jerusalem and the end of the world would take place at the same time. Though both events would be separate, in His response, Jesus attempted to answer both questions. Also, it is to be noted, as the disciples implied in their question, that the end of this present world will take place at the second coming of Jesus.

Question #2

The Bible does NOT reveal the exact date for the end of the world and the Second Coming of Christ. Matthew 24:36,

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: Yes. God has not revealed to us an exact date for the Second Coming of Christ. Therefore, any such predictions about the exact date of Christ’s Second Coming are mere speculations.

Question #3

Though the Bible does not give the exact date of Christ’s Coming, it is possible to know when His coming is near? Matthew 24:33

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: Jesus gave the disciples signs that would primarily indicate when the destruction of Jerusalem is near, but would also apply as signs to tell us when the second coming of Christ is near.

Question #4
What are some of the signs that Christ gave to indicate the nearness of His coming? Matthew 24:5-14

[ ] Many false Christs
[ ] Wars
[ ] Earthquakes and famines
[ ] Lawlessness
[ ] All of the above

Question #5

Which of the following is NOT one of the signs that Jesus indicate would appear among the celestial (heavenly) bodies? Matthew 24:29

[ ] The sun will be darkened
[ ] The moon will not give its light
[ ] The stars will fall from heaven
[ ] No clouds will appear in the sky

NOTE: These natural phenomena that Jesus predicted would take place as signs of His coming have actually been fulfilled already, as indicated below:

The Dark Day. On May 19, 1780, there occurred in the United States of America, what is still called the ‘Dark Day’. On the morning of the said day, a few hours after the sun arose as normal, a phenomenal experience occurred—darkness covered the heavens so much as if it was 9’O Clock in the night. “Fear, anxiety, and awe gradually filled the minds of the people. Women stood at the door, looking out upon the dark landscape; men returned from their labor in the fields; the carpenter left his tools, the blacksmith his forge, the tradesman his counter. Schools were dismissed, and tremblingly the children fled homeward.” The Great Controversy (1911). Pacific Publishing Association: Ontario, Canada) pg. 306. The darkness lasted until the next day; when the moon came up in the night, it (at first) had the appearance of blood (see Joel 2:31).
The Falling of the Stars. On November 13, 1833, occurred what is know as the “Falling of the Stars”. That was the most extensive and wonderful display of falling stars which has ever been recorded; “the whole firmament, over all the United States, being then, for hours, in fiery commotion! No celestial phenomenon has ever occurred in this country, since its first settlement, which was viewed with such intense admiration by one class in the community, or with so much dread and alarm by another.” “Its sublimity and awful beauty still linger in many minds. . . . Never did rain fall much thicker than the meteors fell toward the earth; east, west, north, and south, it was the same. In a word, the whole heavens seemed in motion. . . . The display, as described in Professor Silliman’s Journal, was seen all over North America. . . . From two o’clock until broad daylight, . . . an incessant play of dazzlingly brilliant luminosities was kept up in the whole heavens.”–R. M. Devens, American Progress; or, The Great Events of the Greatest Century, ch. 28, pars. 1-5. . . .” The Great Controversy (1911). Pacific Publishing Association: Ontario, Canada) pg. 333

Question #6

Jesus said that the gospel MUST be preached in all the world before the end comes Matthew 24:14

[ ] True
1. [ ] False

Question #7

What are the two key words that Jesus used to describe what our attitude should be in response to the signs of the end? Matthew 24:42, 44 and Luke 21:28

[ ] Watch and be Ready
1. [ ] Watch and Wait
1. [ ] Ready and Wait
1. [ ] None of the above

Question #8 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief/commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study:

[ ] I believe that the Second Coming of Jesus is very near.
[ ] I desire to be prepared for the Second Coming of Jesus.
[ ] I commit my life to Jesus so that I can be ready for His coming.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, I commit my life to you; help me to be ready and stay ready for your Second Coming?”

a. [ ] Yes

b. [ ] No

Answers:

#1 c #2 a #3 a #4 e #5 d #6 a #7 a #8 (any response is correct)

Introduction

It has been said that we can live a “few days without water, a few minutes without air, but only a few seconds without hope.” This statement reveals how important hope is to our existence—it is hope that keeps us alive. The word ‘Hope’ means “to desire or anticipate with expectation of fulfillment”1. Hope allows us to endure present difficult circumstances with the expectation that these circumstances will change for the better some time in the future.

Therefore ‘Hope’ can be referred to as the ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ or ‘the silver lining in the dark cloud’. However, experience in this life teaches us that it is not everything we hope for will be fulfilled. In order for us to live fulfilled lives, our hope must be based on things that are true and enduring.

In this lesson, we will take a look at what the Bible teaches about the “blessed hope”—the hope that keeps Christians alive in the midst of a world full of disappointments.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand how important the hope of the Second Coming of Jesus is to the Christian
Identify the events/activities surrounding the Second Coming of Jesus, including the manner of His appearance
Review the biblical evidences about and take a decision to be prepared for the Second Coming of Jesus

Recommended Readings

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
1 Corinthians 15:50-55
Revelation 19

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

According to the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:19, if the Christians’ hope in Christ was only based on things in this life, they would be:

[ ] Of all men, the most miserable
[ ] Carried about with every wind of doctrine
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

Question #2

After reading, answer the following question:
– In Titus 2:12, 13, the Apostle Paul refers to the Second Coming of Jesus as the _________ hope.

[ ] Coming
[ ] Blessed
[ ] Glorious
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Paul calls us to put our hope in the ‘glorious appearing of Jesus Christ’—calling it the blessed hope. Paul makes it clear that this is the hope that is worth living and longing for—the Coming of Jesus.

Question #3

After, answer the following question:
Read John 14:1-3 then identify the promise that was NOT included in Jesus’ words to His disciples:

[ ] In My Father’s house are many mansions
[ ] I go to prepare a place for you
[ ] I will come again and receive you unto Myself
[ ] I will not go with you

NOTE: Jesus gave us His word—that He will come again. This is a promise that we can put our faith in, for the words of Jesus cannot fail (Matthew 24:35; 2 Peter 3:3, 9).

Question #4

After reading Jude 1:14, 1, Hebrews 11:8-10, Psalm 50:3 and Job 19:25, 26, match the following names— [i] ABRAHAM, [ii] ENOCH, [iii] DAVID, [iv] JOB—with the correct statement or hope in the Second Coming of Christ that is presented below.

_________ “Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of His saints”
_________ “For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God”
_________ “Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence”
_________ “And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God:”

Question #5

Which of the following statement is NOT true about the manner of Jesus’ appearance at His Second Coming? Acts 1:10-11

[ ] He will come in like manner as He went up into heaven
[ ] He will appear in person
[ ] His coming will be merely spiritual
[ ] His coming will be visible and literal

NOTE: Jesus will appear the second time in person, just as He went up into heaven from the Mount of Olives. He will not come in secret nor in spirit—He will come so that people will be able to identify who He is.

Question #6

Which of the following statements is true about how many persons will see Jesus at His Second Coming? Revelation 1:7

[ ] Every eye shall see Him
[ ] Only the saints will see Him
[ ] Only the wicked will see Him
[ ] Every eye shall not see Him

NOTE: “Every eye” refers to the fact that the Second Coming of Jesus will be a global event. Every nation on earth will witness His Second Coming. No one will need to alert the other about His Coming, it will be such that all will know of His appearing.

Question #7

What will happen to the ‘dead in Christ’ at the Second Coming of Jesus? 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17

[ ] They will rise first
[ ] They will remain in their graves
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: At the sound of the trumpet, the dead in Christ will be resurrected from the dead. This will mark the fulfillment of the hope that has kept the believers in every age—that one day, like their Master, they will have victory over death and the grave.

Question #8

What wonderful change will take place in the lives of the righteous at the Second Coming of Jesus? 1 Corinthians 15:51-53

[ ] They will be changed from mortal to immortality;
1. [ ] They will be changed from corruption to incorruption
1. [ ] They will be translated
1. [ ] All of the above

Question #9

How will the wicked respond to the Second Coming of Jesus? Revelation 6:14-17

[ ] They will terrified at His coming
[ ] They will attempt to hide
[ ] They will run to the rocks and the mountains
[ ] All of the above

Question #10

Identify the missing word from the statement about how the righteous will respond to the Second Coming of Jesus. “And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; We have ________ for him, and he will save us:” Isaiah 25:9

[ ] waited
- [ ] prepared
- [ ] looked
- [ ] longed

Question #11

Indicate the correct order of words to fill-in-the blanks for the Bible text that speak to what we need to do to be prepared for the Second Coming of Jesus:

“______________ ye therefore, and ____________ always, that ye may be accounted ________________ to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to ____________ before the Son of man.” Luke 21:36 (KJV)

[ ] Watch, pray, worthy, stand
[ ] Pray, watch, worthy, stand
[ ] Stand, watch, worthy, pray
[ ] Watch, stand, worthy, pray

Question #12 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I believe that Jesus is coming again to take His people home.
[ ] I want to be ready when Jesus comes.
[ ] I commit my life to Jesus so that I can be ready for His coming.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, transform my life and help me to be prepared for Your Second Coming.”

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers

#1 a #2 b #3 d #4 a- ii; b- i; c- iii; d- iv; #5 c #6 a #7 a #8 d #9 d #10 e #11 a #12 (any response is correct)

Introduction

With so much evil, unfairness and corruption in the world, the question is often asked, “where does all of this evil come from?” If God is so good and powerful, why doesn’t He do something about the evil that exists? Why do the innocent suffer, while the wicked continue to prosper?

In this Bible study lesson, we will seek to give Biblical answers to these questions and more?

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand that Lucifer (now Satan) is the main instigator behind the suffering and sin that exists in the world today
Know at least 3 Bible texts that reveal who Satan is/was
Understand God’s plan to deal with Satan

Recommended Readings

Genesis 3:1-3
Job 1 & 2
Revelation 12

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

Would you say that God is responsible for the suffering that exists in the world? 1 John 4:8 and Jeremiah 31:3

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

NOTE: The Bible says that “God is love.” Love is the basis on which God operates. The Bible also refers to God’s love as everlasting. This means that as long as God exists, love has been the foundation of His government and operation. Therefore, God is not the One responsible for the evil that exists in the world.

Question #2

Who was the first person to commit sin? 1 John 3:8,

[ ] Adam
[ ] Eve
[ ] Satan
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The Bible declares that sin originated with Satan (the Devil). He is the first one to sin—to raise up rebellion against God’s government and as a result, has brought suffering and disobedience into this world (see also John 8:44).

Question #3

Where was Satan/Lucifer living when he sinned? Isaiah 14:12 and Luke 10:18

[ ] In heaven
[ ] In Hell
[ ] On earth
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Satan originates from heaven. He was called Lucifer, which means, “light bearer” or “day star”. He dwelt in heaven as an angel of God before he sinned.

Question #4

Which of the following statements is CORRECT about Lucifer before his fall? Ezekiel 28:12-15

[ ] He was created perfect and beautiful
[ ] He was one of God’s most exalted angels (an anointed cherub)
[ ] He dwelt in the holy mountain of God
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: God created Lucifer and appointed him as an anointed cherub—meaning that he stood next to God’s throne (Psalm 80:1). He held a high position among the angels. He was perfect in all his ways, full of wisdom and beauty and he was in the holy mountain of God before “iniquity” was found in him.

Question #5

Which of the following statements is NOT a reason for Lucifer’s rebellion? Ezekiel 28:17 and Isaiah 14:13, 14

[ ] His heart was lifted up because of his beauty
[ ] He sought to exalt himself above God
[ ] He wanted to be like God
[ ] The other angels were jealous of his beauty and talents

NOTE: Lucifer’s sin began with pride and a desire to be “like God”. He wanted to take God’s position (see also John 8:44).

Question #6

What happened in heaven as a result of Lucifer’s rebellion in heaven? Revelation 12:7-9

[ ] He was cast down into the earth
[ ] He was destroyed in hell fire
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

Question #7

Which of the following words correctly describe the strategy or method that the Serpent (Satan) used to take dominion of the earth from Adam and Eve? Genesis 3:1-6

[ ] Deception or Lies
1. [ ] Force
1. [ ] Coercion
1. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: Satan used the serpent to deceive Eve and Adam into disobeying the words of God and thus invite sin and suffering into the world (Romans 5:12). By this act of disobedience, Adam and Eve gave dominion of the world to Satan (see Luke 4:5-7). Therefore, Satan currently dwells on the earth, going about, the Bible says, “seeking whom he may devour” (see also Revelation 12:12; John 10:10).

Question #8

Satan and his angels will one day be destroyed by fire? Matthew 25:41

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: God has a plan to destroy Satan, Sin, and Death in the fires of hell at the last day (see Revelation 20:10.)

Question #9

Who is responsible for destroying the works of Satan? 1 John 3:8

[ ] Jesus, the Son of God
[ ] The people of God
[ ] The angels of God
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Through the death of Jesus Christ on behalf of man, God has rescued this world from sin and has sealed the fate of Satan—to destruction (see also Hebrews 2:14, 15).

Question #10

What strategy does the Bible suggests for overcoming Satan while living in this world? Ephesians 6:10-12 and James 4:7, 8

[ ] Put on the whole armour of God
[ ] Submit yourself to God
[ ] Resist the devil
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: In order to overcome the Devil, we must first recognize who we are up against—that we are fighting against one who is superior to us in ability and skill—we are no match for the Devil. Therefore, our only means of victory is to depend entirely upon the Lord by having a daily connection with Him through prayer and obedience to His word.

Question #11 (Personal Response)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I believe that God always loves me.
[ ] I believe that there is a Devil who seeks to deceive and destroy.
[ ] I pledge to commit my life to Jesus, so that I can overcome the Devil and sin.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, please help me to submit myself to you completely, so that I can overcome all the devices of Satan.”

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers:

#1 b #2 c #3 a #4 d #5 d #6 a #7 a #8 a #9 a #10 d #11 (any response is correct)

Introduction

The question is often asked, “What is God doing about the problem of sin and suffering in the world?” In this study guide we will be looking at what God has done in response to sin and how it affects every human being on planet earth.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand that God’s plan to give His Son Jesus for our salvation is not an after thought
Identify the steps that God took to reveal His Son to humanity as the only means of salvation
Identify at least 3 Bible texts that show what Jesus has done in order to save us from sin

Recommended Readings

John 3:12-18
Isaiah 53
Galatians 3

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1
What is God’s response to the problem of sin? What solution does He offer to humanity? John 3:16

[ ] He gave His Only Begotten Son to offer salvation to all men
[ ] He gave His Only Begotten Son to offer salvation to most men
[ ] He gave His Only Begotten Son to offer salvation to some men
[ ] None of the above

Question #2

At what point did God take the decision to give His Son for the salvation of the world? 1 Peter 1:18-20

[ ] As soon as He recognized that man sinned
[ ] Before the foundation of the world
[ ] Just before Jesus was born into the world
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: God took the decision to give His Son as a sacrifice for our sins before the world was created. God knew that because He created man with the freedom of choice, the possibility existed that man could sin. That is why Adam and Eve did not die immediately after they sinned, because the plan of salvation was activated as soon as they sinned (see Rev. 13:8; 2 Timothy 1:8-10).

Question #3

God revealed His plan of salvation to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden as soon as they sinned? Genesis 3:15

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: God’s plan of salvation was first revealed in the Garden of Eden, when God came to question Adam and Eve about what they had done after they had sinned. The “Seed of the Woman” refers to Jesus Christ, who would “crush the Serpent’s head” (See Galatians 3:16; Romans 16:20; Revelation 12:5).

Question #4

Though the Son of God did not come into the world until approximately 4,000 years after the plan was revealed, were the people who lived before His coming given the opportunity to believe in Him? Luke 24:44

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

NOTE: Yes, they did. Through the sacrificial system and the teachings of the prophets, God spoke to the people about the coming Messiah—in whom they could find forgiveness of sins, even before He came to die (see also Hebrews 4:1, 2; Galatians 3:8).

Question #5

Was the Son of God born into the world at the time He was promised? Galatians 4:4

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Question #6

What was the name given to the Son of God at His birth and what does it mean? Matthew 1:21 and Acts 4:12

[ ] Jesus; meaning, “Savior”
[ ] Jesus; meaning, “Immanuel”
[ ] Immanuel; meaning, “Savior”
[ ] None of the above

Question #7

Was Jesus only a Man; was He God; or both? Philippians 2:5-7

[ ] Jesus was only Man
[ ] Jesus was only God
[ ] Jesus was both God and man
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Jesus was God, dwelling in human flesh. He veiled His divinity with humanity, so that He could experience the life of a human being—to face and overcome temptation as a man. Therefore, He was both God and man (see Hebrews 2:14-17; 1 Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-3; 14).

Question #8

What does the Scripture mean when it refers to Jesus as a Lamb “without blemish or spot”? 1 John 3:5 and 1 Peter 1:19

[ ] He was without sin
1. [ ] He was faultless
1. [ ] He was perfect
1. [ ] All of the above

NOTE: In order to be our substitute and sacrifice, Jesus had to be sinless, and He was (see also 1 Peter 2:21, 22). That is why the animal sacrifices that were offered in the sacrificial system and who represented Jesus had to be without spot or blemish.

Question #9

What has Jesus done to save us from our sins? 1 Peter 2:24 and Isaiah 53:5, 6

[ ] He bore our sins in His own body
[ ] He was wounded for our transgressions
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Jesus took our sins upon Himself and died in our place. He suffered as if He was the One responsible for the sins of the whole world. For the Bible says, “. … the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

Question #10

What steps should we take in order to experience the salvation that Jesus brought to us by His death? Acts 2:37, 38

[ ] Repent and be baptized
[ ] Receive God’s forgiveness
[ ] Receive the gift of the Holy Spirit
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: In order to truly benefit from what Jesus has done for the world, each person must decide in his/her heart to renounce the sinful ways of the world and accept Jesus Christ as their Saviour and Lord (see also Acts 16:30, 31). We will study more about how to be saved in the next lesson.

Question #11 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I believe that Jesus died to save me from my sins.
[ ] I accept the sacrifice of Jesus on my behalf.
[ ] I choose to repent of my sins and turn to God with my whole heart.\
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, I repent of my sins and accept the sacrifice of Jesus on my behalf.”

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers

#1 a #2 b #3 a #4 a #5 a #6 a #7 c #8 d #9 c #10 d #11 (any response is correct)

Introduction

This is the most important question that a person can ask or should ask—‘What must I do to be saved?’. The answer to this question determines one’s eternal destiny. It is a question that has been asked over and over again, both in the Bible and by many today.

In this Lesson we will be seeking to give Biblical answers to this important question, as we study the true condition of the sinner and what has been done and must be done for us to have eternal life.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand that based on man’s condition in sin, he would have no hope without salvation through Jesus Christ
Know what steps to take in order to receive salvation

Recommended Readings

John 3:12-18
Romans 3
Ephesians 2:8-10

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

How does the Bible describe the nature and condition of sinful man? Romans 3:10-12

[ ] There is none righteous
[ ] There is none that doeth good
[ ] They are all gone out of the way
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: Because of the sinful nature that we inherit from Adam, all men are born sinful and separated from God. Therefore, without Christ, all men are by nature sinful and stand guilty before God.

Question #2

What is the ultimate consequence of sin? Romans 6:23

[ ] Death
[ ] Suffering
[ ] Sickness
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Death is the ultimate punishment for sin. This death refers to eternal separation from God, which the wicked will experience at the last day (see Revelation 20:14, 15). No one has already experienced this kind of death, except for Jesus, who suffered the true consequence for sin on the cross.

Question #3

Can man do anything on his own to make himself right with God? Jeremiah 13:23

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

NOTE: No. Sin is as much a part of man’s nature as the spots in the leopard’s body and the color of the Ethiopian’s skin (Psalm 51:5). Therefore, there is nothing that man can do (of himself) to be made righteous (see Job 25:4).

Question #4

How does the Bible describe God’s attitude towards the sinner? John 3:17 and Ezekiel 33:11

[ ] God has not expressed how He feels about the sinner
[ ] God feels angry toward the sinner
[ ] God is more willing to save, than to destroy the sinner.
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: Though God hates sin, He loves the sinner and does not wish for the sinner to die in his/her sins. That is why He has done and will do all in His power to save the sinner from sin.

Question #5

What has Jesus done to save us from sin? Romans 5:8

[ ] He was born into this world
[ ] He went back to heaven
[ ] He died for us
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Because we could do nothing to save ourselves, Jesus, the Son of God, decided to take our guilt upon Himself; died in our place and offer to us salvation as a gift.

Question #6

What two-fold elements are necessary for salvation? Ephesians 2:8-9

[ ] By faith; through hope
[ ] By grace; through hope
[ ] By grace; through faith
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: We can only be saved by exercising our faith to believe and accept the gift of salvation that Jesus has made available to us.

Question #7

– Please match the following Bible texts with the steps that we need to take for salvation:

BIBLE TEXT SALVATION STEP

A. Acts 16:30, 31 i. ________ Acknowledge our sins and our sinfulness

B. 1 John 1:9 ii. ________ Believe in the Lord Jesus

C. Psalm 51:3 iii. ________ Confess our sins

D. Mark 16:16 iv. ________ Repent and be converted

E. John 15:4 v. ________ Be Baptized

F. Acts 3:19 vi. ________ Abide in Christ

NOTE:

The first step in the process of salvation is to acknowledge our sinful condition and recognize our need for salvation (Jeremiah 3:13).
The second step is to believe that Jesus died to take away our sins and that He is willing to forgive us of all our sins and to accept us as His children.
The third step is to confess our sins to God. Confession means to acknowledge in prayer to God all the wrongs that we have done and ask for His forgiveness (see also Proverbs 28:13).
Confession is to be united with repentance of all our sins. Repentance involves being sorry for our sins, taking a decision not to continue a life of sin, taking measures to put away sinful practices and choosing to live our lives entirely consecrated to God (see Isaiah 1:16-18; Acts 2:38).
After we have consecrated our lives to Christ through repentance and confession of our sins, the next step is to accept the rite of baptism as a public expression of our faith in Jesus Christ and our renouncing the sinful ways of the world.
The final step in the process of salvation is to continue to abide in the grace of God. We are saved by grace through faith, and it is by grace through faith that we are to continue to hold on to the hands of Jesus while walking in obedience to his word. On a daily basis we are to depend on God for everything and be willing to give Him everything.

Question #8 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I acknowledge that I am a sinner, in need of God’s forgiveness.
[ ] I believe Jesus died to save me from my sins.
[ ] I confess and repent of my sins and ask God to forgive me for all the wrongs I have done.
[ ] I am asking Jesus to take total control of my life, so that I will not continue to live in sin.
All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, forgive me of all my sins; fill me with Your Holy Spirit, so that I may have power to do Your will and to abide in You.”

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers
#1 d #2 a #3 b #4 c #5 c #6 c #7 CABFDE #8 (any response is correct)

Introduction

In the previous lesson, we learnt that we are “saved by grace through faith”; of ourselves, we can do nothing to be saved. But, the question is, when we accept Christ and surrender our lives to Him, ‘what type of life are we expected to live?’ What does God require of us? Does He have a standard by which He will judge us? Are we all free to choose the standard by which we live as Christians?

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand how God reveals man’s duty to Him through the 10 commandments
Identify from the Bible what the 10 commandments are
Identify the role that the 10 commandments play in man’s salvation
Understand how God enables us to keep His commandments

Recommended Readings

Exodus 20
Romans 3
Romans 8

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

What does the Bible say is “the whole duty of man?” Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14

[ ] Fear God and look for His judgment
[ ] Fear God and Keep His commandments
[ ] Fear God and do what comes to your mind
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Our duties in relation to God are derived from this principle—to “fear” or “love” God (Matthew 22:37-40). And the greatest demonstration that we truly fear or love God, is that we should obey His commandments (John 14:15; Deuteronomy 6:1-5).

Question #2

Please match the Bible Texts (Side A) with the commandment that it contains regarding our duty to God:

BIBLE TEXTS (Side A) COMMANDMENT (Side B)

A. Exodus 20:3 i. ___ “Thou shalt not steal.”

B. Exodus 20:4-6 ii. ___ “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord . . in vain”

C. Exodus 20:7 iii. ___ “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image”

D. Exodus 20:8-11 iv. ___ “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.”

E. Exodus 20:12 v. ___ “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.”

F. Exodus 20:13 vi. ___ “Thou shalt not covet.”

G. Exodus 20:14 vii. ___ “Thou shalt not commit adultery.”

H. Exodus 20:15 viii. ___ “Honor thy father and mother.”

I. Exodus 20:16 ix. ___ “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.”

J. Exodus 20:17 x. ___ “Thou shalt not kill.”

NOTE: These are the Ten Commandments that outline our duty to God and to our fellowmen. The first four (4) commands outline our specific duties to God and the last six (6) speak to our duty to our fellowmen (see also Deuteronomy 5:6-21).

Question #3

According to Jesus, what are the two great principles on which the Ten Commandments are based? Matthew 22:37-40

[ ] Love God with all your heart and love your Christian neighbor
[ ] Love God with all your heart and love all who love you
[ ] Love God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The Ten Commandments are based on the principle of love—love to God and love our fellowmen. Love is the basis of all of God’s commandments (see also Romans 13:8-10).

Question #4

How were the Ten Commandments given to God’s people? Deuteronomy 4:12, 13

[ ] God wrote them on two tables of stone
[ ] Moses wrote them down in a book
[ ] God gave Moses in a vision
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The Ten Commandments were spoken from Mount Sinai to the Children of Israel by God Himself, who wrote them on two tables of stone with His own fingers and gave the stones to Moses (see also Exodus 24:12; 31:18).

Question #5

Can we be saved (justified) by merely attempting to keep the law of God in our own strength? Romans 3:20

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

NOTE: The Law of God is the standard of righteousness, but it is not the means of salvation. Man, because of sin, has fallen under the condemnation of the law and has become so morally weak, that of himself he cannot render acceptable obedience to the law of God (see Romans 8:6-8; Isaiah 64:6). Therefore, man cannot be saved from sin by merely attempting to obey the law.

Question #6

What role does the law play in the plan of salvation? Romans 7:7

a. [ ] The Law reveals how good we are

b. [ ] The Law reveals what sin (wrong-doing) is

c. [ ] The Law sets us on a right path

d. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: Like a mirror that shows us our true physical condition, the Law of God reveals to us our true spiritual condition. It points out sin in our lives, but it is not able to save us from sin (see also Romans 3:20).

Question #7

What is the only means by which the sinner can be justified before God? Romans 3:28

a. [ ] By doing right

b. [ ] By faith

c. [ ] By our works

d. [ ] None of the above

Question #8

The fact that we are justified by faith, does this remove our obligation to keep the law of God? Romans 3:31

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Question #9

True or False, the Bible says that the Ten Commandments were “nailed to the cross”? Colossians 2:14

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: The Bible refers to the “handwriting of ordinances” or the “law of commandments contained in ordinances” as being abolished by the death of Jesus Christ. These phrases do not refer to the Ten Commandments, which are the moral standard of God’s government. These phrases refer to the “ordinances” and “laws” that were established in relation to the earthly sanctuary services established by God in the wilderness to teach the Children of Israel the principles of salvation in types and symbols (see Hebrews 9:1; 10:1-5). These “laws” and “ordinances” were abolished when Jesus died on the cross, because, since the real sacrifice for sin had now come, there was no more need for the sacrifice of animals and for an earthly sanctuary service (see Matthew 27:50, 51).

Question #10

How does God enable us to keep His law? Ezekiel 36:26, 27

a. [ ] He gives us a new heart

b. [ ] He puts a new spirit within us

c. [ ] He takes away the stony heart out of our flesh

d. [ ] All of the above

NOTE: God, by the Holy Spirit, is able to write the principles of His law in the hearts of those who accept His salvation, so that they can walk in His ways and keep His law (see Hebrews 8:10; Romans 8:1-4; Psalm 40:8).

Question #11 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I acknowledge that it is my duty to love God and obey all of His commandments.
[ ] I believe that God has provided the strength needed for me to obey His commandments.
[ ] I pledge that, by the grace of God, I will live my life in harmony with His commandments.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, transform my heart, so that I can live by your commandments”?

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers:

#1 b #2 HCBIAJGEDF #3 c #4 a #5 b #6 b #7 b #8 b #9 b #10 d #11 (any response is correct)

Introduction

According to the book of Revelation one of the major issues that will be involved in the final conflict between good and evil, is the matter of worship. At the center of this issue will be the question of, ‘who deserves our worship.’

In this lesson, we answer the question of whom we ought to worship and what is the ‘sign’ of true worship.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand the key role that worship plays in the final conflict between God’s people and Satan
Identify at least 3 Bible texts to show that the Sabbath is a special sign of God’s authority over creation
Understand biblical principles on how to keep the Sabbath

Recommended Readings

Exodus 20:8-11
Revelation 13 & 14
Matthew 12:10-12

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

Besides the Lamb of God, who else receives worship from those who dwell on the earth during the last days? Revelation 13:4, 8

[ ] The Mark of the Beast
[ ] The Dragon and the Beast
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: John, in vision, saw that worship will play a very important role in the final events of earth’s history. John saw that during the time of the end, the world will be divided into two classes of people, 1) those who worship the beast and his image (which represents a religio-political power and 2) those who worshiped and maintained their allegiance to the Lamb (Jesus Christ) (see also Revelation 13:8).

Question #2

What does the Bible say will happen to those who worship the beast and its image and receive its mark? Revelation 14:9-10

[ ] They will drink of the wine of the wrath of God
[ ] They will be tormented with fire and brimstone
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

Question #3

True or False, Jesus declared that only God deserves worship? Matthew 4:10

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: God is the only One who deserves to be worshiped. Not even an angel deserves to receive the allegiance and reverence that belong only to God (see Revelation 19:10).

Question #4

Who is the main person (besides God) who demands worship? Matthew 4:8, 9

[ ] The Beast
[ ] Evil men on the earth
[ ] The Devil (or Satan)
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Satan, the rebel angel is the one behind every system that opposes true worship (see Lesson #4).

Question #5

True or False, God deserves worship because He created heaven and earth? Revelation 4:11 and Jeremiah 10:10-12

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: God deserves our worship and allegiance because He is our Creator (see also Revelation 14:7)

Question #6

What special SIGN has God given to us to remind us that He created heaven and earth? Exodus 20:8-11

[ ] The stars in the heavens
[ ] The rainbow in the clouds
[ ] The Sabbath
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: God has given us the Sabbath as a sign and reminder that He is Creator of heaven and earth (see also Ezekiel 20:12, 20). By keeping the Sabbath, we guard against losing sight of our dependence on and obligation to God.

Question #7

When and how was the Sabbath established? Genesis 2:1-3

[ ] God established the Sabbath at the end of creation week
[ ] At Mount Sinai while talking with Moses
[ ] While God gave instructions about the earthly sanctuary
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The Sabbath was established during creation on the seventh-day. On each day of the six previous days of creation, God made everything in the earth that we now see and enjoy, but on the seventh day, God ended His work, rested, blessed the seventh day and made it holy.

Question #8

Which day of the week is the Sabbath day? Exodus 20:10

[ ] The third (3^rd) day of the week
[ ] The seventh (7^th) day of the week
[ ] Any day you choose to be the Sabbath
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The seventh day of the week is the Sabbath of the Lord. The seventh day of the week is called Saturday.

Question #9

At what TIME of day does the Sabbath begin? Nehemiah 13:19

[ ] The morning of the 7^th day
[ ] At 12 midnight on the 6^th day
[ ] At sunset (when it gets dark) on/after the 6^th day
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The Sabbath begins at sunset of the sixth day (Friday) (see Leviticus 23:32; Luke 23:53-55).

Question #10

True or False, the Sabbath was made only for the Jews? Mark 2:27, 28,

[ ] True
[ ] False

NOTE: No. The Sabbath was made for all mankind. The Jews were, in a special sense commanded to keep the Sabbath and reminded about it, because they were called to be God’s special people who would keep His commandments, as opposed to most of the heathen nation who showed little or no respect for the God of heaven (see Exodus 19:4-6; Nehemiah 9; Romans 3:1, 2).

Question #11

How should we keep the Sabbath? Exodus 20:8; Isaiah 58:13; Luke 4:16 11; Matthew 12:10-12

[ ] Rest from our secular labors
[ ] Worship God
[ ] Acts of service to others
[ ] All of the above

NOTE:

REST: The Sabbath is to be kept holy by resting from all secular work and interests and dedicating our time to sacred duties and purposes.
WORSHIP: As Jesus did while He lived on the earth, we are to attend the house of worship on Sabbaths. (see also Isaiah 66:22, 23).
ACTS OF SERVICE: It is lawful to perform acts of mercy and service to others who are in need on the Sabbath.

Question #12 (Personal Response)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I acknowledge that God established the Sabbath as a sign of His authority.
[ ] I believe that God wants me to keep the Sabbath holy.
[ ] I pledge to keep the Sabbath holy, according to the word of God.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, help me to worship you by keeping the Sabbath holy and acknowledging Your sovereignty over all creation.”?

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers:

#1 b #2 c #3 a #4 c #5 a #6 c #7 a #8 b #9 c #10 b #11 d #12 (any response is correct)

Introduction

In the previous lesson we discovered that the Sabbath is not only a Sign of True Worship, but also a sign of God’s authority over heaven and earth. The Bible calls us to worship “Him who made heaven and earth”, for He alone deserves our worship and allegiance. At creation, S established the Sabbath as a memorial of creation and a sign of His authority over all things. He has commanded us to keep the Sabbath holy as a sign of our allegiance and loyalty to Him.

The Sabbath (according to the Bible) is the seventh day of the week (Saturday). However, most Christians today consider Sunday to be Sabbath. In this lesson, we will seek to answer questions, such as ‘Why is it that most of Christendom keeps Sunday and not Saturday (the Seventh-day of the week) as the Sabbath?’ And ‘does it make any difference which day we keep?’

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Know from Bible and history the origin of Sunday as a day of worship
Identify at least 3 Bible texts to show that God did not change the day of worship from the 7^th to the 1^st day of the week
Understand how God view disobedience in relation to His commandments

Recommended Readings

2 Thessalonians 2:1-13
Matthew 15:1-9
Matthew 5:17-19

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

Are there any indications in the Bible that God is responsible for the apparent change of the Sabbath from the seventh-day to the first day of the week? Deuteronomy 4:2, Matthew 5:17, 18 and Luke 23:55, 56

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

NOTE: There are no indications in the Bible (Old or New Testament) that God abolished the Sabbath or changed it from one day to the next. (See also Matthew 24:20; Isaiah 66:22, 23; Acts 13:42, 44).

Question #2

Are there any commandment sin the New Testament to observe the first day of the week as Sabbath? Matthew 28:1; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2

[ ] Yes
1. [ ] No

NOTE: None of the New Testament Bible texts that mention the ‘first Day of the Week’ indicate that there was a command from God to keep the first day of the week as a Sabbath. The Bible clearly makes a distinction between the Sabbath and the first day of the week.

Question #3

If the apparent change of the Sabbath is not found in the Bible, then when, where and how did this change take place? 1 Timothy 4:1, 2; Acts 20:28-30; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4; Daniel 7:25

[ ] There has been no attempts to change the Sabbath from one day to the next
[ ] The resurrection of Christ on Sunday caused the change
[ ] The Roman Catholic church of the Middle Ages attempted to change the Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The Bible does speak of apostasy that would take place in the Church—a departure from the faith that would lead to a departure from right doctrines (see 2 Timothy 4:3, 4). The practice of ‘Sunday sacredness’ did not take place overnight. It began with the practice of honoring Sunday as the day of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and a subtle avoidance of the ‘Jewish Sabbath’. Though the Church (at first) did not out rightly abandon the seventh-day Sabbath, yet as time went by, the first day of the week began to take precedence as a day of worship. The first official move to establish Sunday as a day of worship was done in 325 A.D., when Constantine (the first Christian Roman Emperor) issued an edict that says, “On the ‘venerable Day of the Sun’ (Sunday) let the magistrates and people residing in cities rest, and let all workshops be closed.” Note this quotation from the Convert’s Catechism of Catholic Doctrine:

“Question – Which is the Sabbath day?

“Answer – Saturday is the Sabbath day.

“Question – Why do we observe Sunday instead of Saturday?

“Answer – We observe Sunday instead of Saturday because the Catholic Church, in the Council of Laodicea (A.D. 364), transferred the solemnity from Saturday to Sunday.” — Rev. Peter Geiermann, C.S.S.R., The Convert’s Catechism of Catholic Doctrine, p. 50, 3rd edition, 1957

Question #4

After reading the statements below from a few Dictionary and Encyclopedia on the meaning of ‘Sunday’, answer the following question:

– What meaning do most secular encyclopedias give for the word ‘Sunday’?

[ ] “Day of the sun” or “Sun’s day”
[ ] In the early days of Christianity, the day that began to replace the Sabbath in honor of the resurrection
[ ] Established by Constantine the Great as the day of rest
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: “Sunday, first day of the week. Its English name and its German name (Sonntag) are derived from the Latin dies solis, “sun’s day,” the name of a pagan Roman holiday. In the New Testament (see Revelation 1:10) [some Christians refer to it as] . . . . the Lord’s Day (Dominica in the Latin version), from which the name of Sunday is derived in Romance languages (French Dimanche; Italian Domenica; Spanish Domingo; Roman Duminica). In the early days of Christianity, Sunday began to replace the Sabbath and to be observed to honor the resurrection of Christ. Sunday was instituted as a day of rest, consecrated especially to the service of God, by the Roman emperor Constantine the Great. Since the 4th century, ecclesiastical and civil legislation has frequently regulated work on Sunday and service attendance. In the United States, laws limiting business activity and amusements on Sundays have become known as blue laws.” Microsoft® Encarta® Reference Library 2003. © 1993-2002 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved [margin].

Question #5

What difference does it make if I continue to keep Sunday as the Sabbath, (instead of Saturday the 6^th day which is the weekly day of the week created by God for rest from secular labor), though I know God does not command it, but that it is only a human tradition? Matthew 15:3, 9

[ ] I worship God in vain if I follow human tradition above the commands of God
[ ] It does not make any difference
[ ] The Bible is silent on the matter
[ ] None of the above

Question #6

True or False, Ignorance is no excuse for sin, Leviticus 5:17. However, God will overlook the mistakes of those who keep Sunday out of ignorance or ignorantly commit any other acts of sin, Acts 17:30. At this point however, He invites everyone not to be ignorant to what the scripture says about observing the Sabbath as the 7th day of the week and not Sunday, which is the 1st. Day of the week Like 4:16.

[ ] True
[ ] False

Question #7 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief/commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I acknowledge that God established the seventh day of the week (Saturday) as the Sabbath.
[ ] I believe that God wants me to keep holy the seventh-day as Sabbath.
[ ] I choose to reject the traditions of men and to accept and practice the Bible’s teaching concerning the Sabbath.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, give me the courage to follow the Bible above tradition on the question of which day is the Sabbath”?

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers:

#1 b #2 b #3 c #4 d #5 a #6 a #7 (any response is correct

Introduction

The Bible clearly teaches that this sinful world will not continue forever. One day God will put an end to the suffering, sickness, pain and death that exists in our world. However, the Bible also teaches that before God destroys the world, there will be a time of judgment to decide who is worthy of eternal life and who is not.

In this lesson, we will study what the Bible teaches about the judgment and how it affects us as individuals.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand what takes place during the investigative judgment
Know the standards by which each person will be judged
Understand the basis on which names are accepted and rejected during the judgment

Recommended Readings

Daniel 7:9-13
Romans 8:31-34
1 John 2:1, 2

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

According to the Bible, where does judgment begins at the? 1 Peter 4:17

[ ] House of the wicked
[ ] House of God
[ ] Throne of Satan
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The investigative aspect of the judgment will begin with the names of all the people of God who have ever lived on the earth to determine and prove their fitness for heaven. Therefore, this aspect of the judgment will take place before the Second Coming of Jesus. For when Jesus returns He is coming, not to determine who is worthy, but to “reward every man according to his works” (Matthew 16:27).

Question #2

Which of the following is NOT included in the description of the judgment? Daniel 7:9-10

a. [ ] The Ancient of Days is in charge of the judgment

b. [ ] Thousands stood before the Ancient of Days

c. [ ] The judgment was set and the books were opened

d. [ ] Satan and his angels are called before the Ancient of Days

NOTE: The prophet Daniel, in vision, saw the scene of judgment taking place in heaven at the time of the end. Daniel saw the “Ancient of days” (God the Father, Psalm 90:10, 11) sitting upon His throne with thousands, thousands ministering unto Him (the angels, Revelation 5:11) and ten thousand times ten thousands standing before Him (the people being judged), the judgment was set and the books were opened.

Question #3

Which of the following books are NOT among those that will be opened in the judgment? Revelation 20:12, Malachi 3:16

a. [ ] The book of Life

b. [ ] The book of Remembrance

c. [ ] The book of Celebration

d. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: According to Daniel, John, and other Bible writers, God keeps records in heaven. First of all, there is the “Book of life”, which records the names of all who accept the name of God. Then there are books that record the good deeds of God’s people and those that record the evil thoughts, words and deeds of men (Luke 10:20; Daniel 12:1).

Question #4

According to the Bible, which aspect of our lives will NOT be judged? Ecclesiastes 12:14, 1 Corinthians 4:5 and Matthew 12:36, 37

a. [ ] Our Works (actions)

b. [ ] The thoughts (counsels) of our hearts

c. [ ] Our words

d. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: “Opposite each name in the books of heaven is entered with terrible exactness every wrong word, every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin, with every artful dissembling. Heaven-sent warnings or reproofs neglected, wasted moments, unimproved opportunities, the influence exerted for good or for evil, with its far-reaching results, all are chronicled by the recording angel” (White, Ellen G. The Great Controversy (Pacific Press Publishing Association: Nampa, Idaho, pg. 482). All aspects of our lives will be examined in the judgment—our actions, our words and even the thoughts of our hearts.

Question #5

What is the standard by which God’s people will be judged and their lives examined? James 2:12

[ ] The Law of Liberty (the 10 Commandments)
[ ] The constitution of one’s country
[ ] By their own will
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The standard of judgment is the righteousness of the law of God as revealed in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the word of God (see also John 12:48).

Question #6

What special work does Jesus perform for His people during the judgment? 1 Timothy 2:5 and Romans 8:31-34

[ ] He is our Mediator
[ ] He makes intercession for us
[ ] He justifies us with His righteousness
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: Jesus is our Advocate in the judgment—One who stands in our place to accept our repentance and confession of sins and to confess our names before the Father. Without Jesus’ presence in the judgment and His confession of us, none of us could be accepted before God (see also Matthew 10:32, 33; John 14:6; Romans 8:31-34).

Question #7

Whose names will Jesus confess before the Father? Revelation 3:5

[ ] He that overcometh
[ ] Those who are clothed with white raiment (that represents the righteousness of Christ)
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Jesus will only confess the names of those who truly repent of all their sins and live a life wholly consecrated to God.

Question #8

True or False. Once your name is written in the book of Life, it will not be removed? Exodus 32:33

[ ] True
[ ] False

Question #9

What will Jesus do as soon as He completes the judgment in heaven? Revelation 22:11, 12

a. [ ] He will come to give reward to every man

b. [ ] He will work to give the wicked a second chance

c. [ ] All of the above

d. [ ] None of the above

Question #10 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I acknowledge that God has appointed a time to judge the world.
[ ] I believe that Jesus is the Advocate for all repentant sinners.
[ ] I choose to accept Jesus in my heart and life, so that Jesus can confess my name before the Father during the judgment.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, cover me with your righteousness and help me to keep trusting in you, so that I can stand before you as faithful in the judgment”?

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers:

#1 b #2 d #3 c #4 d #5 a #6 d #7 c #8 b #9 c #10 (any response is correct)

Introduction

Most, if not all of us have done things in the past that we are not proud of and would like to be buried forever. For some persons, getting pass their past is a big problem. They are so troubled by the past, that they are unable to live a guilt-free; worry-free life in the present. They are in constant fear of what the consequence of their wrongdoings might be.

In this Bible study lesson, we will seek for answers in the Bible concerning how we can get pass our past and start to live a life of freedom from guilt and fear by looking at the experience of David and how he got pass his past.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand that God is able to forgive their sins and give them a new start
Understand from the Bible what steps to take to experience cleansing from sin
Understand the true meaning of Baptism and how it relates to our salvation

Recommended Readings

Psalm 51
Romans 6
Acts 19:1-6

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

What terrible sins did David, the king of Israel commit? 2 Samuel 12:9

[ ] Adultery and Murder
[ ] Adultery and lying
[ ] Adultery and swearing
[ ] Murder and swearing

NOTE: David committed adultery with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah and when he found out that Bathsheba was pregnant, he tried to cover up his wrongs by killing Uriah.

Question #2

After Nathan, the prophet of God confronted David about what he had done, what did David asked God to do? Psalm 51:1, 2

[ ] Have mercy upon him
[ ] Blot out his transgressions
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: when Nathan, the prophet, confronted him David recognized that only God could help him to get pass his past. Therefore, instead of depending on himself, David sought to lean on the mercy of God.

Question #3

Did David attempt to “cover up” his sins? Psalm 51:3, 4

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

NOTE: Acknowledging our wrongs is the first step in seeking to get pass our past (see Proverbs 28:13; Jeremiah 3:13).

Question #4

Besides confessing the sins that he committed, what else did David acknowledge to God? Psalm 51:5

[ ] That he had killed Uriah
[ ] He was shaped in iniquity and conceived in sin
[ ] That he could not help himself
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: David also confessed that he was a sinner by nature (as are all human beings who are born in this world)—on his own he is not able to do what is right (Romans 3:10-19).

Question #5

In light of his condition, what was David asking God to do about his sins? Psalm 51:2

[ ] Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity
[ ] Cleanse me from my sins
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

Question #6

What was Paul (Saul) told to do in order to “wash away his sins”? Acts 22:16

[ ] Be baptized
[ ] Be sorry for his sins
[ ] Arise and shine
[ ] None of the above

Question #7

What two-fold baptism is necessary, in order for our sins to be washed away? Mark 1:8 and John 3:5

[ ] Baptism by water and stone
[ ] Baptism by water and the Spirit
[ ] Baptism by the blood and fire
[ ] None of the above

Question #8

Which Word is missing? Jesus commanded the Church or His followers to go out and ______________ all nations and then to baptize them. Matthew 28:19

[ ] Teach
[ ] Give
[ ] Help
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Before persons are baptized, they need to be taught the basics of salvation and what is required of them so that they can make an intelligent decision about giving their lives to the Lord and serving Him.

Question #9

After being taught the gospel, what does a person need to do before they are baptized by water? Acts 2:38

[ ] Live a clean life
[ ] Speak in tongues
[ ] Repent
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: In response to learning about the truth of God, it is the person’s responsibility to repent of their sins before being baptized. Repentance involves a 1) sorrow for the wrongs that you have done; 2) a decision to turn away from those wrongs and; 3) a decision to make amends for the wrongs done (as far as possible) and to put things in place that will help to prevent you from repeating those wrongs.

Question #10

What is God’s promise to the persons who repent of their sins and receive baptism? Isaiah 1:18

[ ] Make your life clean again
[ ] Make your life as white as snow
[ ] Cleanse you from all sins
[ ] All of the above

Question #11

How does the Bible describe the condition of those who are “born again”? 2 Corinthians 5:17

[ ] They are new creatures or new creations
1. [ ] Old things are passed away; all things become new
1. [ ] All of the above
1. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: Being born again is truly the most effective way to get pass our past. Considering that, when we accept Christ, receive His forgiveness and are baptized by water and by His Spirit, God gives us a new start in life—like a newborn baby, we have no past, but we have a brand new future.

Question #12

Is it really necessary to be baptized in order to be saved? Mark 16:16

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

NOTE: Though being baptized by water does not have any virtue of itself to save anyone, it is a rite that has been commanded by God to be used as symbol of a person’s commitment to Him and their desire to unite in fellowship with His Church on earth (see Acts 2:41; 22:16).

Question #13

Is there anything wrong with being baptized more than once? Acts 19:1-6

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

NOTE: The Bible records a situation in which believers, who were baptized by John the Baptist, were re-baptized after being taught more fully the teachings of Jesus. Therefore, nothing is wrong with being baptized more than once.

Question #14 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I acknowledge that only by the grace of God that I can get pass my past of sin and guilt.
[ ] I believe that God is able to forgive and cleanse me of all my sins.
[ ] I choose to surrender my life to Jesus and receive His forgiveness.
[ ] I choose to be baptized as a public expression of my faith in Jesus.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, I surrender my life to you; forgive me of all my sins and give me a new start”?

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers:

#1 a #2 c #3 b #4 b #5 c #6 a #7 b #8 a #9 c #10 d #11 c #12 c #13 b #14 (any response is correct)

Introduction

“Until death do us part.”

These are words that are often repeated at weddings when the Bride and Groom are taking their vows. Some people see this part of the vow, “till death do us part” as difficult to keep and sometimes seem like placing one’s life in bondage.

However, on the other hand, ‘till death do us part’, can be a sad reminder that death is man’s greatest enemy. For not even the bliss of a wonderful marriage can prevent a man or woman from facing death. As the Word of God declares, it is “appointed unto men once to die” (Hebrews 9:27).

During this study, we will look at man’s only hope of conquering death, while we will also see from the word of God man’s condition in death.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand that man is mortal (subject to death)
See from the bible that the only way that man can be made immortal, is through faith in Jesus Christ
Understand that the believer in Christ will only be made immortal at the Second Coming of Christ; at the resurrection

Recommended Readings

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
1 Corinthians 15:50-55
Revelation 20

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

Which of the following statements CORRECTLY describes how man was created at the beginning? Genesis 2:7

[ ] God called man into existence
[ ] Body (from the Dust of the earth) + Inner Organs = Living Soul
[ ] Body (from the Dust of the earth) + God’s breathe = Living Soul
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Body (Dust of the ground) + Breathe of life = “Living Soul”.

Question #2

Fill-in the missing word: God warned Adam and Eve, “the day you eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, you will surely __________________. Genesis 2:16, 17

[ ] Suffer
[ ] Die
[ ] Become wiser
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: At the beginning, man was given conditional immortality—he would continue to live as long as he continues to obey God’s word. The moment he disobeyed God, he would be separating himself from the Source of life and thus would perish.

Question #3

What was the lie that the serpent used to deceive Eve into eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil? Genesis 3:4, 5

a. [ ] You shall not surely die

b. [ ] You shall inherit the kingdom

c. [ ] All of the above

d. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: The serpent told Eve that if they should eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, they would not die (contrary to what God had said).

Question #4

What happened as a result of Adam and Eve eating from the forbidden tree? Romans 5:12

[ ] Sin entered the world
[ ] Death was passed upon all men
[ ] All men are considered sinners
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: Adam and Eve, including their children, fell under the condemnation of death (see Romans 6:23a; Genesis 3:19).

Question #5

Fill-in the blanks. When a person dies, the dust returns to the _____________ and the spirit (breathe) returns to ______________? Ecclesiastes 12:7

[ ] Heavens; God
[ ] Earth; God
[ ] God; Earth
[ ] The Sky; God

NOTE: When a person dies, the body returns to the ground and the breath (spirit) returns to God who gave it. The breath does not represent the ‘soul’ of the person. The word ‘spirit’ here represents the ‘breath of life’ that God breathe into the body at the beginning. Therefore, when the breath of life leaves the body, then the person is dead, as this equation demonstrates: Body – Breath of Life = Dead Body

Question #6

Which of the following statements is NOT true about the condition of a person who dies? Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6

a. [ ] The dead knows nothing

b. [ ] Their love, hatred and envy are now perished

c. [ ] They do not have anything else to do with anything that is done under the sun

d. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: The dead cannot communicate with the living. Once the breath of life leaves the body, all that remains is the corpse, which is basically dust.

Question #7

True or False. The righteous goes to heaven immediately after death? Revelation 14:13 and Acts 2:29, 34

a. [ ] True

b. [ ] False

NOTE: False. The righteous who die, remain in their grave until the resurrection (see John 5:28, 29). An example of this is given by Peter in his sermon about David—that David is not ascended into the heavens, but he is dead and in his grave awaiting the resurrection.

Question #8

True or False. Only God has immortality? 1 Timothy 6:15, 16

a. [ ] True

b. [ ] False

NOTE: God alone has inherent immortality. Immortality means that God is not subject to death—He lives forever.

Question #9

What is the only means by which man is able to receive eternal life (immortality)? John 5:24

[ ] Believe in God through Jesus Christ
[ ] There is no way for man to live forever
[ ] Eat the best quality food and exercise
[ ] Live the best life possible

NOTE: Man receives eternal life only by accepting Jesus Christ by faith. Those who live in Christ has the assurance that one day they will be raised form the dead to live forever (see also John 5:25, 28, 29; John 11:25).

Question #10

When will the righteous receive immortality? 1 Thessalonians 4:13-16 and 1 Corinthians 15:52

a. [ ] Immediately after death

b. [ ] Man already has immortality

c. [ ] At the Second Coming of Jesus

d. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: The righteous will receive immortality at the resurrection when Jesus returns the second time. Only then will the righteous be endowed with immortality and incorruption that are promised to those who believe in Jesus. Today, the righteous are still in their graves awaiting the resurrection (see also 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17).

Question #11 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to the foregoing study.

[ ] I acknowledge that the dead cannot communicate with the living.
[ ] I believe that the only way to live forever is to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
[ ] I pledge to commit my life to Jesus, so that I can overcome sin and death.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, help me to receive your offer of salvation and live for you, so that I can be counted worthy to be among those who will inherit immortality”?

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers:

#1 c #2 b #3 a #4 d #5 b #6 d #7 b #8 a #9 a #10 c #11 c (any response is correct)

Introduction

It is quite obvious, that most countries in the world today are going through serious economic challenges. These economic challenges will affect everyone, including God’s people.

In this lesson, we will take a look at the Biblical principles of financial management that can help us to survive these tough times.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Understand the basic principles of financial management that are taught in the Bible
Know what the Bible teach about the Tithing system
Put confidence in God’s ability to provide for His followers in tough economic times

Recommended Readings

Malachi 3:6-15
Deuteronomy 8
1Timothy 6:6-10

Online Resources

http://www.adventiststewardship.com/

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

What does the Bible says about who owns the wealth of the world? Deuteronomy 8:18; Psalm 24:1

[ ] The rich owns everything
[ ] God is the owner of everything
[ ] Satan owns everything in this world
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The first Biblical principle of financial management is that we should recognize that God owns everything. All that we have belongs to God, including the strength that we use to gain wealth (see also Psalm 24:1).

Question #2

If God is the One who owns everything, what relationship do human beings have to the things that they possess? Genesis 1:26

[ ] God gave man dominion over the earth to manage on His behalf.
[ ] Man is a steward of all that he possess
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: God made man and placed him on this earth as a steward or manager of His possessions. Man is supposed to use the resources of the earth for his good and for the glory of God (see Psalm 8:6, 7; Jeremiah 9:23).

Question #3

As stewards of God’s possessions, what is expected of human beings? 1 Corinthians 4:2

[ ] Faithfulness
[ ] Aggressiveness
[ ] Selfish
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: What God require of us, is faithful and wise use of what He has blessed us with.

Question #4

What portion of our income or increase does God require us to return to Him to be used in His work? Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 3:8

[ ] Offerings
[ ] Tithe and Offerings
[ ] What we decide to give
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: The Bible mentions two things here that define part of our obligation to God in regards to our resources—tithe and offerings. The tithe refers to 1/10th (10%)—a specified amount of what we own. Because Israel was a farming community, they were required to return 1/10th of their crop or animals. But, in our time, it is interpreted to mean 1/10th (10%) of our income/increase. Offering refers to a freewill amount that we give to God. Therefore, it is not a set amount. It can be more or less than the tithe, based on our willingness and/or ability to give.

Question #5

Tithing is a principle that is found in both the Old and New Testaments. Has Jesus said anything which suggested that Christians should not return tithe? Matthew 23:23

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

NOTE: Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for giving more attention to returning of tithe than to exercising faith, mercy and judgment. He emphasized the need for them to attend to; faith, mercy and judgment. In making his observations to them, He suggested that while they should return their tithes, they should not leave such important issues of faith, mercy and judgment unattended to.

Question #6

What is God’s intended purpose for the tithe? Numbers 18:24 and 1 Corinthians 9:13, 14

[ ] To be given to the poor
[ ] It is to be used to build churches
[ ] To be used to spread the gospel and care for those who dedicate full service to the ministry.
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: Among the children of Israel, the tithe was used to support the Levites—the tribe that was asked to dedicate their entire lives to the services of the temple. Because the Levites were not given any land to inherit and they could not farm or work for a living as the other Israelites could, God made provision for them, by allowing them to partake of the tithes and offerings that were brought in to the temple by the Israelites. Today, the tithe is used for various forms of evangelistic programs including that of paying gospel ministers who dedicate their entire lives in full time service to preach the gospel and administer functions to nurture and care for His believers and the social needs of others. Without the faithfulness of God’s people in returning their tithe and giving a liberal offering, the mission of the Lord would be affected in greater measure for the want of resources.

Question #7

What does the Bible declare happens to those who are unfaithful in giving to the treasury of the Lord? Malachi 3:9

[ ] They are blessed
[ ] They are cursed with a curse
[ ] They will prosper
[ ] None of the above

Question #8

What blessings does God promise to those who are faithful in returning the tithes and offerings? Malachi 3:10

[ ] God will open the windows of heaven to pour out blessings upon them
[ ] They will not have enough room to receive all that God pour out upon them
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

Question #9

Along with tithes and offerings, what else should we do with the means that the Lord has blessed us with? Proverbs 19:17

[ ] Give to the poor
[ ] Have pity upon the poor
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

Question #10

What attitude do we need to cherish in order to avoid all anxieties in regards to our finances especially in difficult times? 1 Timothy 6:6-10

[ ] Do not love money
[ ] Possess strong faith in God
[ ] Be content with what we have; avoid covetousness
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: It is very important for us to develop a spirit of contentment—to appreciate what God has provided and to live within the means of what we have. While nothing is wrong with having abundance, it’s better to depend on God to provide for us in an honest way, than to seek dishonest gain (see also Philippians 4:11).

Question #11

What other important principle does the Bible teaches about managing our finances? Proverbs 22:7

[ ] Avoid getting into debt
[ ] The borrower is a slave to the lender
[ ] All of the above
[ ] None of the above

NOTE: As far as possible, we should avoid debt. We should practice to live within our income until God blesses us with more.

Question #12

True or False. God promises to supply all our needs, even in tough economic times? Philippians 4:19 and Isaiah 33:15, 16

[ ] True
[ ] False

Question #13 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief concerning this study of the Bible on the important topic of tithe and offering..

[ ] I acknowledge that God is the Owner of all that I have; I am only a steward of what I possess.
[ ] I believe that God wants me to return my tithe and offering as a sign of my love for and commitment to Him.
[ ] I pledge to adhere to the principles of financial management that are outlined in the word of God.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, help me to trust you with my finances, even in tough economic times.”?

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Answers:

#1 b #2 c #3 a #4 b #5 b #6 c #7 b #8 c #9 c #10 d #11 c #12 a

#13 (any response is correct)

Introduction

While Christians await the second coming of Jesus, they still live and work in a world that is culturally diverse and complicated. Yet, even in this culturally diverse world, Christians still need to eat, dress, entertain themselves and live a normal life while maintaining their Christian standards.

Therefore, the question is often asked, ‘how do you (as a Christian) practice your Christianity in the midst of such a complicated world?’ Among these varied standards and customs that exist in the world today, the question is, “how do Christians know what to follow and what to discard?”

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson the learner will be able to:

Define the principles that govern the world outside of Christ
Develop a correct attitude towards worldly principles
Know what the Bible teaches about Christian behavior, especially in the areas of dress, diet, entertainment and sexuality

Recommended Readings

1 John 2:15-17
James 4:1-5
Romans 12

Learning Activities

Read the Bible text associated with each question below and indicate which of the responses is correct.

Question #1

What are the principles that govern the attitude of those who are of the world? 1 John 2:16

[ ] Lust of the flesh
[ ] Lust of the eye
[ ] The pride of life
[ ] All of the above

NOTE: The principles that govern the world are contrary to the principles that are promoted by the word of God. The world is governed by selfishness and pride, while the Bible promotes love and humility.

Question #2

What should be the Christian’s attitude toward the customs and practices of the world? 1 John 2:15

a. [ ] Enjoy the world

b. [ ] Love not the world

c. [ ] All of the above

d. [ ] None of the above

Question #3

Which is the missing word? According to James 4:4 (KJV), whoever is a friend of the world is an _____________ of God.

a. [ ] Rival

b. [ ] Enemy

c. [ ] Companion

d. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: The customs of the world and the principles of God are as contrary to each other as light is to darkness. Therefore, it is impossible for anyone to please themselves with the things of the world, while pleasing God (2 Corinthians 6:14-16; Matthew 6:24, 25).

Question #4

What is it that sets Christians apart from those who are non-Christians or followers of the world? John 17:14

a. [ ] The church they attend

b. [ ] Living by the words of God

c. [ ] All of the above

d. [ ] None of the above

NOTE: It is the practicing of the principles of the word of God that separates the Christian from the world. Whenever a Christian fails to live their lives according to the principles of God’s word, they will find that their desires and tendencies are not much different from those of the world.

Question #5 (Matching)

Please match the Bible Text on Side A with the lifestyle principle on Side B for which the text gives guidance

SIDE A SIDE B

1 Timothy 2:9, 10 1. ______________ DIET (B)
1 Corinthians 10:31 2. ______________ ENTERTAINMENT (C)
Philippians 4:8 3. ______________ SEXUALITY (D)
1 Corinthians 6:18; Exodus 20:14 4. ______________ DRESS (A)

NOTE:

DRESS: The Bible speaks to Christian dressing. The main principle that is called for is modesty—to avoid extravagance including the wearing of jewelry (see also 1 Peter 3:3, 4).
DIET: We are commanded by the Bible to glorify God in our eating and drinking. This would involve eating and drinking those things that promote health and avoiding those things that would destroy our health (see also 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20; Genesis 1:29; Leviticus 11).
ENTERTAINMENT: In seeking to entertain themselves, Christians are to seek for things that will improve their spiritual health—things that will increase their devotion to God and their love for their fellowmen. Therefore, they are to avoid dwelling upon and taking pleasure in every appearance of evil, including entertainment that contains violence, pornography, foul language, lying and all manner of evil (see also Matthew 5:27, 28; Job 31:1; Psalm 101:3).
SEXUALITY: Christians are commanded to avoid all forms of sexual immorality, including fornication, adultery, homosexuality, bestiality etc. God designed sex to be enjoyed and shared within the context of marriage. But Satan leads men and women to pervert this wonderful gift. Sexual immorality is one of the number one causes of troubles in the world today (see also Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; 1 Corinthians 6:9).

Question #6

What are we called to do in order to overcome the world? Romans 12:1, 2

a. [ ] Present your bodies to God as a living sacrifice

b. [ ] Do not be conformed to this world

c. [ ] Be transformed by the renewing of your mind

d. [ ] All of the above

NOTE: The only way to overcome the world and its allurements is to surrender our lives and hearts complete to Jesus; allowing Him to have total control (see also 1 John 5:4, 5).

Question #7 (Personal Reaction)

Please indicate the statements that agree with your belief in and commitment to the Bible in response to this study.

[ ] I acknowledge that God wants me to glorify Him in all that I do.
[ ] I believe that the only way to glorify God, is to obey His word in every aspect of my life.
[ ] I pledge to practice the principles of God’s word in regard to my dress, health, entertainment, sexuality and other lifestyle choices.
[ ] All of the above

Prayer:

Will you pray this prayer, “Lord, transform my life by Your word and grant me victory over the love for this world”?

[ ] Yes
[ ] No

Coming Up

Congratulations! This is the final lesson in the series.

Someone who will arrange for you to receive your certificate will contact you.

Evaluation and Follow-up

Indicate all of the following that best describe your feelings and desire:

1. [ ] I found this series of lessons very informative

2. [ ] I desire to study another series of lessons

3. [ ] I would like to attend your Church

4. [ ] I would like to get baptized

5. [ ] I would like to recommend someone to take these lessons

6. [ ] I would like to have a discussion with someone about my interest and suggestions

Answers:

#1 d #2 b #3 b #4 b #5 1-B; 2-C; 3-D; 4-A; #6 d #7 (any response is correct)

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