INTRODUCTION
The author of this little book on Missionary Baptist Distinctives is, himself, a distinctive Missionary Baptist. For over twenty years Elder L. M. Branch has been a respected pastor, evangelist, and teacher. He has labored well in word and in doctrine and is, therefore, worthy of double honor.
It is doubtful if any man, anywhere, is more qualified to teach and explain the distinctive doctrines of Missionary Baptists better than Brother Branch. The lessons he sets forth in this book are truths which he has not only taught but has lived during all the days of his ministry.
Brother Branch became disabled in 1965 due to a severe heart attack. In the providence of God he has probably meant more to the cause of Christ in his "disabled" condition than ever before, for, since then, he has devoted most of his time to teaching classes in Doctrine. Missions and Evangelism in the California Missionary Baptist Institute at Bellflower. Scores of young ministers have profited from his teachings.
It is our prayer, as this book is sent forth, that it may enable every reader to more ably contend for the faith once delivered to the saints.
Roy M. Reed
President
California Missionary Baptist
Institute and Seminary
The Bible
INTRODUCTION: The Bible is a library of sixty-six books, written by about forty different writers, over a period of about 1,500 years. The Old Testament was written in Hebrew, and the New Testament was written in Greek. Different men, in different walks of life, under different customs, conditions, circumstances and cultures were called and inspired of God to write the books which make up our Bible. Businessmen (Matthew), Fishermen (Peter, James, and John, etc.), Doctors (Luke), and other people with different backgrounds were used of God in writing the Holy Bible. The Bible does not identify the writers of the books of Job and Hebrews. The teachings of these two books are, however, in harmony with the context of the Bible as a whole, and they are believed to have been written by Job and Paul. This is also the writer's belief.
In this lesson on "The Bible" one will study:
1. Its inspiration,
2. Proof of its inspiration, and
3. The importance of the Bible.
I. THE INSPIRATION OF THE SCRIPTURES II Timothy 3:16, 17
1. Definition of "Inspiration": The word means to breathe into. When one says that the Scripture is inspired of God, one means that God directed, superintended, and guided the writings of men who wrote the Bible so that they wrote without error; hence, the inspiration of God. Each student is urged to look up the definition of the word Inspiration, and study it thoroughly. Give some Scriptures to prove this.
2. The Holy Spirit dwelling in Holy men of God enabled them to write the Holy Scriptures, see II Peter 1:16-21. The important points made by Peter in these verses are: a. That the Apostles had not followed cunningly devised fables, but were eyewitnesses of the resurrected, glorified Christ -verse 16.
b. They heard the' voice of God on the mount of transfiguration confirming the Deity of Jesus as God's only begotten Son -verses 17, 18.
c. A more sure word of prophecy, when not in any private interpretation, is the fulfillment of prophecy itself, proclaimed and written by Holy men of God who were moved by the Holy Spirit to write the prophetic events fulfilled and preached by the Apostles and New Testament churches- verses 19-21.
3. The Spirit of Christ in the prophets inspired them to write of the sufferings and death of Christ, and the glory that should follow-I Peter 1:10-12 and John 5:46.
3. The Apostles of Christ were inspired to write the New Testament-John 14:24-26 and 16:4-13.
II. PROOF OF THE INSPIRATION OF THE BIBLE
1. Fulfilled prophecy proves the Bible to be of Divine origin-Luke 24:44 compare the following Old Testament Scriptures with their New Testament fulfillment.
a. Isaiah 7:14 and Matthew 1:18-23 concerning the virgin birth of Christ.
b. Isaiah 40:3, Matthew 3:1-3, and John 1:23 concerning John the Baptist.
c. Isaiah 28:16, Matthew 16:18, and I Peter 2:6 concerning Christ as the foundation stone, the Rock of ages, upon whom one's hope of salvation, and the church institution is built.
2. Its perfect harmony proves its inspiration. When rightly divided (II Timothy 2: 15), the Bible is self-interpreting and is a harmonious work of infinite perfection-- II Timothy 3:16, 17.
3. It is the best selling book ever, in spite of all the unbelief of it, insults about it, assaults upon it, and earnest efforts of many enemies of the past to abolish it from the earth. Name one other book that has remained in the status of the Bible. There is none.
4. Its harmony with true science proves its inspiration.
Note the following examples:
a. Hundreds of years ago Isaiah prophesied of air vehicles-Isaiah 60:8.
b. Many believe that Nahum 2:4 is a prophecy of the automobile in the end time.
c. The weight of water and air was spoken of by Job hundreds of years ago-Job 28:24-27.
d. Radio, or, wireless messages were spoken of long before science discovered it-Job 38:35.
e. The circulation of water through the sea and earth, then pure-Ecclesiastes 1:6, 7.
III. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE WORD OF GOD
1. God esteems His Word above all His name-Psalm 138:2. Anyone is as good as his word, and no better. If God's Word could not be trusted as a final authority, we have no higher appeal than the word of man. It is impossible for God to lie (Hebrews 6:18). His Word is Truth, John 17:17.
2. His Word will stand as revealed and confirmed truth forever Matthew 24:35 and I Peter 1:24, 25. This means that God will not change His Word to the fancy of men or conditions. His words are the expressions of His will. Spoken words express thoughts or feelings. God's Son. Jesus, is the Living Word of God (John 1:1-4), and Jesus was the expression of God (John 1:14 and Hebrews 1:1-3) in thought, principle, attribute, and feeling. God's thoughts that He has chosen to reveal of Himself to and for mankind have been written by inspired men and the Bible is, therefore, the Word of God, Psalm 119:105.
3. Psalm 119:89 states that His Word is forever settled in heaven. It is to be received or rejected as is, because God is not a changeable personality or deity. It is settled.
4. His Word is His means of cleansing, according to John 15:3 and Psalm 119:9. It tells of the blood of Christ that really cleanses our souls, Revelation 1:5. It also sanctifies one's life for service after one is saved, John 17:17. The word is said to be God's cleansing means, because it conveys His Truth to the minds, and the Holy Spirit can then work on the soul confronted with truth-Romans 10:10-17.
5. God's Word will remain the truth whether or not it is believed-II Corinthians 13:8. This verse simply means that the truth will remain the truth regardless of what one does about it. One can do nothing that will keep the truth from remaining the truth. One can contribute to the truth by believing and practicing it.
CONCERNING THE BIBLE, AN UNKNOWN AUTHOR HAS WRITTEN:
"This book contains the mind of God. the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christian's charter. Christ is its subject, our good its design. and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart and guide the feet. Read it slowly. frequently and prayerfully. It is given to you in life, will be opened in the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, rewards the greatest labor, and condemns all who trifle with its holy precepts. "
QUESTIONS FOR REVIEW
1. What is meant by the expression "Inspiration of the Bible"?
2. How does one prove the Bible is inspired?
3. How important is the Bible in God's estimation, in our estimation as a nation, church or individuals? How important is it to believe in the authority of the Bible?
Faith
INTRODUCTION: God must be believed in by faith. No one can see God with his physical eye as he sees His creation. Believing that He is the creator of all things is a faith. It is not saving faith, but it is a belief or conviction, when one believes in God and believes that He created all things. This is only a beginning place for one to experience a personal relationship with God-Hebrews 11:6. In the Scripture, however, the word, "faith" must be understood in its proper usage. In addition to the above-mentioned way that faith is used, in a general belief in God as creator, here are three other examples of the way this word is used.
1. Personal trust in Jesus Christ as Savior from sin. This is a personal faith in experience;
2. Then the believer's faith (one who is already saved) in Christ as Lord of life and all things;
3. The New Testament system of doctrines (teachings) called "The Faith" is still another one. Now study them one by one.
I. PERSONAL FAITH IN THE PERSON OF JESUS AS ONE'S SAVIOR FROM SIN AND DEATH
1. Personal faith in Jesus is the channel through which God's saving grace flows into the heart of a person in wonderful redeeming experience-Ephesians 2:8, 9.
2. The salvation of the individual soul can only come through faith, after repentance of one's sins has been duly made to God-Acts 20:21, Luke 17:5, and Acts 15:9.
a. Personal faith and not "OF" works-Ephesians 2:9.
b. Personal faith in Jesus and not "ACCORDING TO" our works -II 'Timothy 2:9.
c. Personal faith and not "BY" works of righteousness which we have done--Titus 3:5.
d. Faith alone, not part faith and part works, but ail by faith in Jesus-Romans 11:6.
e. Salvation by faith is the only way it could be by the grace of God, and to His glory. Read how His plan could only work for all in justice, by faith-Romans 4:16.
3. This is an experience of Grace that takes place in the heart of the person at the point of faith in Christ Jesus as Savior Ephesians 1:13. 1 Peter 1:8. 9, and Galatians 2:16.
II. THE BELIEVERS FAITH IN JESUS AS LORD OF HIS LIFE AND ALL THINGS
1. This faith can be increased. developed, strengthened. etc.. Luke 17:5 and 11 Corinthians 10:19. 15. Abraham's faith was not weak (Romans 3:19) but was a strong faith (Romans 4:20). A saved person may have either, depending on how he exercises what he has. how he uses it. develops it. etc., to strengthen it. The Lord will surely bless and help if the believer will do so.
2. This is a believer's faith in action, or experience. John 11:12-15. Lessons of experience teach faith, as in the case of Jesus teaching His disciples at the raising of Lazarus in John 11. Jesus was glad He was not present at the death of Lazarus, "to the intent that His disciples might believe." They were already saved; they just needed to believe more and more. Experience taught them a great lesson and strengthened them.
3. A believer's faith can abound and increase by "doing" what one already believes to be the truth - 1 Thessalonians 3:12 and James 1:21-25.
III. THE NEW TESTAMENT SYSTEM OF DOCTRINES FOR CHURCHES CALLED, "THE FAITH"
1. When the Bible says, "The Faith," it simply means there is a unity of doctrine and that these doctrines are in complete harmony with each other in God's revelation to man. Note those in Ephesians 4:4-6.
2. One is urged to "contend" for the faith-Jude 3. Guard it with your life is the meaning of this statement. The very truth of God is worth giving one's life for if necessary.
3. When Jesus said, "my faith," in Revelation 2:13, this is what He meant, i.e.-His doctrines. •. It is this faith (system of teachings, or doctrines) that establishes churches-Acts 16:5.
a. When believers are established in the doctrine of salvation by grace, security. etc. they must proceed in growth (II Peter 3:18) unto further development-Hebrews 6:1.
b. When they are established in the why, how, when, and by whom of baptism, they go on.
c. When they learn the truth about the church and its purpose, mission and destiny, they have only begun, as it were, and many, many rich truths yet await them. WHY? So they will be ESTABLISHED in God's truth. Ephesians 6 is a good study as to why this must be.
5. This faith must be continued in (meaning this system of truth), and a reward is promised for so doing-Colossians 1:23 and II Timothy 4:6-8.
POINTS FOR REVIEW OF LESSON, AND DISCUSSION
1. When one is saved, he has exercised a personal trust in Jesus Christ. This means that Christ and His atoning blood is the object of his faith, as faith MUST have an object. The believer has everlasting life and will never be lost again-John 3:18, John 5:25, and I John 5:12.
2. After salvation, this faith MUST grow, increase, strengthen and develop in maturity. The best Bible example of this is Acts 2:41, 42. It simply points out that the ones who gladly received the word (were saved) were baptized, added to the church, and CONTINUED in the Apostles' Doctrine (this is the same thing previously referred to as "The Faith"), breaking of bread and prayer. In simple words,
(1) Saved
(2) Baptized
(3) Added to (fellowship by) the church
(4) Continued in the faith.
Notice Acts 18:8-11. The same order is found at Corinth. They heard, believed, were baptized, and were taught a year and a half by Paul, learning the faith.
Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth
2 Timothy 2:15
INTRODUCTION: Paul, an apostle inspired by the Holy Spirit, wrote the above words to Timothy who was not inspired. In his instruction in II Timothy 2:15, he charges Timothy to (1) Study-(2) To show himself an unashamed workman-(3) • Rightly dividing the Word of Truth. In this lesson one will study:
1. The importance of rightly dividing the Word of Truth, the Bible;
2. How God has already made certain grand divisions Himself, and,
3. The purpose of the right (proper) division of the Word of Truth.
I. THE IMPORTANCE OF RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH
1. To avoid a common mistake of making every scripture reading apply to one personally. when it is not to be done. Note this mistake by the Jews-John 5:39, 40 and II Corinthians 3:13-15.
a. "Take heed WHAT ye hear" (Mark 4:24), and "HOW ye hear" (Luke 8:18).
b. Genesis 22:1, 2 is to Abraham ONLY, not to you. telling you to sacrifice your son thusly.
c. Exodus 30:37, 38 is to the nation of Israel. not you personally, and there is a reason.
d. Job 1:6-12 records a conversation God had with the Devil, not with you.
e. I Corinthians 12:27 is said of a church at Corinth, Greece, not to you personally.
f. John 16:13 and 14:26 have direct address to the apostles of Jesus.
g. Revelation 2:2-7 is Jesus speaking to a church institution, not to certain individuals as such. Certainly individuals make up each church, but the institution is collective.
2. It is important to rightly divide the Word of Truth because of the written Word of God in His plan for mankind-I Timothy 6:3-5, Mark 8:38, and Matthew 24:35.
3. It is important because it is inspired by the Holy Spirit and, interpreted in human understanding and perception, may cause great harm-II Peter 3:15, 16.
II. Certain GRAND DIVISIONS ALREADY MADE FOR US
1. The Old Testament is divided into three divisions by Jesus Himself-Luke 24:44; (1) Law-(2) Prophets-(3) Psalm s.
a. The Law and Prophets served their purpose, and were done away by the Lord Himself-Luke 16:16, Colossians 2:14, Matthew 5:17, 18, and Romans 10:4.
b. The Psalms (all six books) are to be used in the New Testament order of Church work and worship-Colossians 3:16 and Ephesians 5:19.
2. The Jewish People were given the Law and Prophets. as n nation. for their rule. guide. teacher and mouthpiece, under the Old Testament, to bring them to Christ. Read Galatians 3:24, 25, Acts 3:18, Acts 10:43, Acts 26:22, 23, and John 1:10-12.
3. New Testament churches now have the New Testament and Psalm books as their rule of faith and practice since the Old was done away-John 12:48.
a. History: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John and Acts.
b. Doctrinal books: All the epistles from Acts to Revelation.
c. Prophetic book: Revelation There is certainly prophecy in the gospels and Acts, as well as doctrine in Revelation, but the above gives the main theme of each division of the New Testament writings.
III: THE PURPOSE OF RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH
1. To he an unashamed workman for God, that needs not turn red in the face-II Timothy 2: 15. This verse means that a disciple, especially a teacher, should study, learn. and know enough about the Word of God that he would never be ashamed when confronted with a question about it, and not know the answer. A believer should. rather, show himself approved-not of men, but of God: This can only be done by rightly dividing the Word of Truth.
2. The purpose of rightly dividing the Word of Truth is that one be clean of heresy and wrong concepts not in keeping with the will of God-John 15:3 and Psalm 119:3.
3. Rightly dividing the Word of Truth will free. one from doubts, fears of ignorance and, indeed, make one free - John 8:31- 32.
4. If one would be sound in the faith of Christ (doctrines), a right division of the Word of Truth is a must-Titus 2:1-8.
5. In making this right division one must test what he sees, hears, thinks and believes-Acts 17:10-12.
The Key to Rightly Dividing the word Of Truth
INTRODUCTION: The last lesson had to do with the right division of the Word of Truth as taught in II Timothy 2:15. This lesson is called a KEY to this task. This lesson is a MUST if one is to understand the Bible to any degree. Failure to rightly divide the Word has brought unscriptural churches into existence. These churches were instituted by men who either did not or would not use this key. Failure to use the key, that unlocks a vast storehouse of truths for the child of God, can result in ignorance of so many things that are necessary to the growth and development of one's Christian life. By not using the key and rightly dividing the Word of Truth as II Timothy 2:15 instructs, it is possible for a child of God to stand before the judgment seat of Christ ashamed, simply because he did not seek the Father's will in His Word, as he could, should, and is asked to do. What is meant by "rightly dividing the ford of Truth"? And, what is meant by the key? How does one do what this lesson introduction suggests, along with Lesson Three? Simply the following:
1. Who is speaking? When one opens the Bible and reads. someone speaks. Who is it?
2. To whom is the speaker speaking? After all. someone is speaking to someone.
3. About what is the speaker speaking? There is a subject under consideration contextually.
4. When was the speaker speaking? (What period of time? This can be very important.)
5. Why was the speaker speaking thusly? There is a reason. To find it will be valuable.
REMEMBER THESE: Who? What? When? Why? Where? etc. ?'his will help in understanding the key.
I. WHO IS SPEAKING?
It is important to understand the following points-II Peter 3: 15, 16.
1. It may be God Himself speaking-Hebrews 12:25, 26; Matthew 3:17, and Isaiah 8:11, 12, 19, 20.
2. It may be the Devil-Luke 4:7, Job 1:11, Genesis 3:5. The Bible records his tricks.
3. It may be Jesus Christ-Matthew 14:18, Matthew 11:28-30, and Matthew 12:47, 48.
4. It may be one of the apostles of Jesus-I John 4:6 and II Thessalonians 3:6, 14.
5. It may be an enemy of God and Christ-John 8:44 and John 5:39-42. It is easy to see by these examples how necessary it is to use the KEY, to rightly dividing the Word of Truth. noticing Who IS SPEAKING.
II. TO WHOM IS THE SPEAKER SPEAKING?
Remember, someone is speaking to someone.
1. There was a time when God spake directly to people-Genesis 4:9. 10 and 6:13.
2. It may be God speaking to Israel through His prophets-Hebrews 1:1, 2.
3. It may be to an individual of any nation anywhere-Isaiah 35:22.
4. It may be to one nation only as a nation people-Leviticus 11:7. 8 and Deuternomy 21:18-23.
5. It may be to a New Testament church as such - 1 Corinthians 1:2 and 1 Thessalonians 1:1 , etc.
Now one has learned a bit more about the use of the key by being sure of who is being spoken to when one reads the Scriptures. Now that one has learned the necessity of knowing who is speaking, and to whom the speaker is speaking, one can go onward.
III. ABOUT WHAT IS THE SPEAKER SPEAKING?
What is the subject under consideration?
1. It may be about any person being saved from sin and becoming a child of God-John 3:14-18.
2. It may be concerning national salvation as in the case of Israel-Romans 11:26 and Matthew 23:37-39.
3. Perhaps it's about the relation of Christ and His Church-Ephesians 5:22-32.
4. Many Scriptures deal with HOW people are saved - Romans 5:1 and Romans 5:17-19.
5. The Lord's Supper may be what is spoken of when one reads the word-I Corinthians 11:17-3•.
6. It could be that the resurrection is the subject spoken of-I Corinthians 15:42-53.
7. John's baptism is not to be ignored in some passages-Luke 7:29. 30 and Acts 1:21, 22 and Ephesians 4:5.
Many times when a statement is made, or a writing is read. and one does not understand what the speaker or writer is talking about, he tries to find out. This is exactly what is meant by the point in the use of the KEY to understanding the Bible. With open mind and sincere effort the subject,or what is being spoken of, can be learned to find WHO is the speaker, to WHOM is he speaking, and ABOUT WHAT is he speaking, it is very helpful to know the next step in the use of the KEY.
IV. WHEN WAS THE SPEAKER SPEAKING?
What period, or age of time, etc.?
1. Was it during the days of inspiration of the Scriptures already studied? II Peter 1:21 and John 16:13, et al.
2. Was it during or after the personal ministry of Christ? John 16:4-7.
3. Was it during the days of miracles referred to in Hebrews 2:1-4 and John 20: 30, 31? In future lessons the importance of this will be seen more clearly.
V. WHY WAS THE SPEAKER SPEAKING AS HE WAS?
Examples: Find the purpose of the statements in the following:
1. God did not allow Moses to go over Jordan with Israel, but did allow him to view the land. Deuteronomy 1:37, 3:23-27, and Numbers 20:7-11. WHY was Moses not allowed to go?
2. What is the purpose of miracles (signs) as spoken of in John 20:30, 31 and Hebrews 2:1-4?
3. What is the basic purpose of the command given in Matthew 28:19, 20?
4. Why do you think the writer said what he did in Hebrews 10:25? There was a reason.
5. What is the main purpose of God's having Revelation 20:11-15 written in the Bible?
It is easy to see the importance of WHY the statements of instruction, correction, history, prophecy, etc. To conclude this lesson, go back to the beginning and notice the five points that are called the KEY to rightly dividing the Word of Truth, for review. And, then, with a thorough understanding of the past four lessons, one can put to practice their use as one proceeds in the further studies.
God's Plan for the Origin Of the New Testament Church
INTRODUCTION: God does His work according to plan, Acts 15:18. The plan for the origin of His church is most important. The church institution was not just an afterthought with God. He planned the institution of His church in His eternal purpose. Fulfilled prophecy concerning how God perfected the plan for the origin of the church proves this point well. The original word used to designate the Lord's church was a word that simply meant "something belonging to the Lord." The word "church" is from "Ekklesia," which means "a called out assembly." The first part of the word, "Ek," means "out," and the last part is from "Kaleo," which means "to call." Hence the word church, alone, is simply a "called out assembly." Just the word church, alone, is not enough to designate the Lord's true church. When one says "a New Testament church," or "church of the Lord Jesus," or, "scriptural church," this indicates the kind taught in the Bible. To show that just the word church (assembly) is not enough, the following examples are given:
1. A called out assembly (Ekklesia) in a confused uproar, some with evil hearts, Acts 19:35-41.
2. A called out assembly (Ekklesia) of people as a nation (Israel), Acts 7:37.
3.A called out assembly of saved, baptized people following Jesus was His church, Mark 1:14-20.
I. GOD'S PLAN FOR PREPARING THE MATERIAL (MEMBERS) FOR HIS CHURCH WAS PROPHESIED
1. By Isaiah, concerning John's ministry, Isaiah 40:3 and Matthew 3:1-3 (fulfilled).
2. By Malachi also, Malachi 3:1 and 4:5, 6, Luke 1:13-17, and Matthew 11:14.
3. This prophesied plan was not unknown to the people, Matthew 17:10-13.
God has always exercised' the attribute of Justice in changing any order, administering His will, and dealing with all people of the earth, by prophesying of such beforehand. There was to be one to go before the promised, expected Christ, to do a work of preparing a people for Him when He came. Even the PLAN, therefore, for the origin of the church, was foretold.
II. GOD'S PLAN IN PROPHECY CONCERNING THE ORIGIN OF THE CHURCH
1. The foundation stone of the church was a theme of many prophecies, Isaiah 28:16 (Rock of Ages).
2. Peter, by inspiration of God, gives the interpretation of the above scripture, I Peter 2:5, 6.
3. Paul affirms this truth. I Corinthians 3:11, 10:4 and Ephesians 2:19, 20.
4. Jesus said He was, Himself, this stone (Rock) upon which He would build up and enlarge His church, Matthew 16:18. Many believe that Jesus was saying, in this verse, that He would build His church upon the confession of Peter in the preceding verses. Others believe that Jesus was appointing Peter as the head of the church. (The Catholic people believe this.) What Jesus was actually saying in Matthew 16:18 was that Peter (Petros) was a small stone, and that He (Jesus) would build up and enlarge His church upon Himself, Jesus (Petri, a huge solid rock.) This is in keeping with all the descriptions of prophecy, and how Peter could not.
a. The stone of Isaiah 28:16 was to be for a foundation. Sec I (Corinthians 3:11.
b. The stone was to be a "tried" stone. Jesus was tried in every way and stood the test, but Peter denied the Lord when the test came, Matthew 26:69-75 and Hebrews 4:15.
c. The stone was to be "precious." This means of great price and very valuable, rare, etc. This could not apply to Peter, but could to Jesus, I Peter 1:18, 19.
It is not difficult to see by these Scriptures that Jesus was the Rock upon which the prophetic Scriptures declared that the Lord's church, our hope, and all building, was to be built.
III. CERTAIN EVENTS PROPHESIED OF, FULFILLED, AND PRESERVED IN EVIDENCE FOR OUR BENEFIT PROVE THAT GOD'S PLAN IS CARRIED OUT, AND THAT THE CHURCH INSTITUTION WAS PLANNED
1. Jesus Christ, the Shepherd of the flock, was to be betrayed by one who was called His friend. Compare Psalm 31:9 and John 13:18.
2. He was to be betrayed for thirty pieces of silver, Zechariah 11:12 and Matthew 26:14, 15.
3. The shepherd of the sheep was to be smitten and the flock scattered according to prophecy in Zechariah 13:7. Jesus said this would happen and it did, Matthew 26:31.
4. The betrayal by Judas for a price, the smitten shepherd and scattered flock, the birth, life, death, resurrection of Jesus, and the many fulfilled minute details of the Scripture about Jesus prove that God's plan is carried out, even to His singing in the church, Psalm 22:22, Matthew 26:30, Hebrews 2: 12.
QUESTIONS FOR REVIEW AND COMPARISON
1. Did God plan the detailed construction of the Ark by Noah beforehand? Why? Discuss this. Read Genesis 6:14-16. Was the plan successful?
2. Did God plan the construction of the Tabernacle? Read Exodus 25:1-9 and discuss. This worked.
3. God promised David that one of his sons would build Him (God) a house (the Temple); which son was it? Read I Chronicles 17:1, 2 and 11, 12. Did God give the plans for this house? Now read II Chronicles 1:7-12.
4. Likewise, God planned the institution of the church. When His plan is observed, much confusion is eliminated. When we capture the thought that:
a. Jesus was born IN DUE TIME, Galatians 4:4 and Luke 2:26.
b. Jesus was treated as God said men would do, out of evil hearts. Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53;
c. God has appointed a day for Jesus to be judge in the future, Acts 17:31.
d. God does His work according to plan (Acts 15:18), and it is up to us to follow that plan (Ephesians 2: 10). then we can better understand that the church was not just an afterthought with God-it was planned.
The Origin Of the New Testament Church Institution
INTRODUCTION: In the last lesson we studied about "God's Plan" in prophecy of the institution of the New Testament church. This lesson is of the actual origin, beginning, or institution of the church. Keep in mind that when we use the word "church" without naming one, or saying "institution," we are simply speaking of the local church in the institutional sense. We never mean to imply that all the saved constitute a universal church. Sometimes we say "the church" and mean the same thing as when we refer to "the home," or "the man." We do not mean your home or mine, or any certain man by this term; we simply use the term in the generic sense. Neither does the term "the home" mean that all individual homes compose a universal home, or all men compose a universal man, but the term "the church" is in the institutional sense.
DEFINITION OF A NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH; "A New Testament church is a called out body of baptized believers, covenanted (agreed) together upon the doctrines of Christ, for the purpose of carrying out His will on the earth." Please memorize this definition.
I. THE MATERIAL FOR THE CHURCH WAS PREPARED ACCORDING TO PLAN Matthew 15: 13
1. John the Baptist prepared the material (members) for it, Luke 1:13-17 and Matthew 3:1-3.
2. He was sent from God to do this, John 1:6, 29-36 with Matthew 21:23-27.
3. In preparing the material (members) for the church, John the Baptist did the following:
a. Preached the gospel of Christ as he had been told. Mark 1:1, 2; Luke 3:2. 15-18.
b. People heard, repented, believed, and were baptized, Matthew 3:6 and John 4:1.
c. After they were prepared, they were referred to Christ, John 1:35.'
Now the material for the building of the House of God is ready. It has to be assembled and "fitly framed together." It takes Jesus to do this.
II. JESUS CALLS THE PREPARED MATERIAL TOGETHER AS HIS ASSEMBLY-CHURCH
1. He calls them out and unto Himself, John 1:35-45.
a. Out from the Old Testament order, John 1:17 and Matthew 5:17, 18.
b. Out from the present world system then, Luke 14:25-33.
c. He called men from occupations to preach His faith, Matthew 4:17-22.
d. This calling out began in Galilee, not Judea, Acts 10:36, 37 and Matthew 4:14, 15.
2. He organized this assembly to carry out the purpose for its existence in the world. Read Matthew 5 through 7, Matthew 16:18, and Psalm 127:1. In doing so,
a. He ordained apostles to that particular office, I Corinthians 12: 28 and Acts 1:21, 22.
b. They preached to Israel only, and were empowered to do miracles, Matthew 10:5-15.
III. HIS CHURCH WAS, THEREFORE, ASSEMBLED, ORGANIZED, AND IN WORKING ORDER UNDER HIS PERSONAL COMMAND WHILE HE WAS HERE ON EARTH
1. His church was sent to preach to Israel only during this time, Matthew 10:5, 6. This is called the "limited" commission. It is limited to Israel only at this time. It is after the resurrection of Jesus that the world-wide commission is given to the church.
2. His church baptized converts under His personal authority and direction, John 4:1, 2.
3. His church had officers whom He personally trained during His ministry, Acts 1:1, 2.
4. His church had a list of names in the group during this time and later, Acts 1:15.
5. His church has His sacred promise that she will continue until He comes again for her, Matthew 18:18 and Matthew 28:19, 20.
REVIEW OF THE LESSON IN BRIEF
1. God planned the establishment of His church as He has planned all things.
2. God sent John the Baptist to prepare the material for His church institution.
3. God sent His Son into the world to build, set up, and establish His church. By His divine person, knowledge, ability and redeeming blood, He established His church upon principles that will perpetuate herself until He comes again, by His leadership, I Timothy 3:14, 15 and Ephesians 3:21.
The church institution in Three Phases in the New Testament
INTRODUCTION: By "three phases" it is not meant three kinds of churches or three faiths, or systems. This means that after the Lord set up His church,
1. He personally established, taught, and directed the church while here on earth.
2. The church was under the care of the inspired apostles and spiritual gifts during their day, while the New Testament was being written, and
3. Afterward, the church has been completely furnished unto every good work by the completed Holy Word of God.
The same divine principles are involved in all three phases but confirmed in a different manner under each of the three phases mentioned. Now, study them in particular.
I. THE LORD'S CHURCH UNDER HIS PERSONAL DIRECTION
1. He personally taught the church His will while here on earth, Acts 1:1, 2, 20-26 and Matthew 5: 1-16.
2. During the Lord's personal leadership of His church she was limited in her mission to the Jewish people ONLY, Matthew 10: 5-8.
3. The Spiritual gifts given the church then were for this commission ONLY, Matthew 10:8. They did not need others that came later, for reasons we will study later.
4. Jesus' being with His church then caused them to ask Him directly. They did not pray in His name for things as we do now. John 16:4. Examples:
a. They (the disciples) did not need the spiritual gifts of knowledge, prophecy, etc., then, as He was with them to supply the need Himself; hence, the gifts in I Corinthians 13:8 were not included in this commission.
b. They were only going to Jewish people then, therefore, only needed the one language, and not the spiritual gift of languages (tongues) mentioned in I Corinthians 13 and 14.
5. His promise to His church before He left the world was that they would receive special, supernatural ability to preach to every creature, nation, etc., and that they were to wait in Jerusalem until He, the Spirit of Truth, gave them this ability, John 14:15-19, 25, 26; 16:5-13; and Acts 1:4-8.
II. THE CHURCH UNDER THE APOSTLES AND SPIRITUAL GIFTS
1. The Lord had set the apostles in the church to care for and edify her after He was gone. Read I Corinthians 12:27, 28 and John 16:12, 13.
Many believe the twelve were the only members of the church when Jesus died for her, but this is based upon the fact that only the eleven were present when He gave the great commission and instituted the Lord's Supper. However, according to Matthew 16:18, Ephesians 1:22, 23; 3:21, Colossians 1:18, I Timothy 3:15, and other passages, the church is the executive of His laws on earth. Then, the fact that the Scripture says that He (Jesus) set the office of apostle "IN the church," reveals that they were only receiving "FOR" the church when they received His teachings, commands, and ordinances. Read I Corinthians 15:5-7.
2. The apostles, and the spiritual gifts they had received, established churches in the faith at that time. Ephesians 4:10-16 and Romans 1:11. The apostles were the source of instruction then.
3. The apostles gave orders in that day, not like a modern-day bishop, but orders from Jesus Himself. Read I Corinthians 16:1 and II Thessalonians 3:6, 14. The divinely appointed apostles did not, however, abuse church autonomy and authority by this authority; see I Corinthians 9:14, 15. Preachers cannot, however, give churches orders in this day because they are not apostles.
4. These brethren, in this office, were trained, tried, tested, and approved of Jesus. They were completely trustworthy men, Acts 4:33-37. Had there been a selfish trait in those men, this situation would have revealed it. There is no indication that they took advantage of having charge over all the material possessions of the saints at that time. There is record, on the other hand, that they recommended the institution of the office of deacon in order to keep down trouble and solve the material and business matters. Read Acts 6:1-7.
5. Pentecost, fifty days after the resurrection of Christ, ten days after His ascension, came just as Jesus had promised, Acts 2:1-11. Without trying to write an exposition on Acts 2, one can safely say that they received what they had been promised by Jesus, and every nation in Jerusalem on that occasion heard the gospel, although these men only knew their native language. The Scripture says that "EVERYONE heard them speak in their own language." How? This was the miracle of that day, that came upon the church, for the preaching of the gospel.
Attention is given here to some words in these verses that help one to understand them, and to this one time event that took place once and for all upon the church.
a. They were all in one place in one accord, verse one. This was a genuine unity.
b. There was a sudden sound from heaven "AS OF'' a rushing mighty wind. There was no storm. such as a tornado that took place, but, the words, ''AS OF," make the term "rushing mighty wind" figurative. The advent of the Holy Spirit in His special work on this day came as a phenomenon, but His power did what Jesus said He would do, verse 2.
c. It filled all the house where they were sitting, verse 2. This is when the church, as such, was baptized with the Holy Spirit. Not as individuals were they filled with Holy Spirit, but the church received this special baptism once and for all; notice Ephesians 4:5.
d. And cloven tongues "LIKE AS OF FIRE" appeared unto them. There was no fire on this day. When anything is cloven, it has different kinds of shapes, etc. Picture in your mind a fire with flames shooting high, and the many lapping shapes of shooting flames going out of it. Everyone present in Jerusalem from the sixteen or seventeen different parts of the world mentioned in verses 5-11 heard these brethren preach in the language (tongue) wherein they were born. How could these Galilean brethren do this, having never learned all these languages? Whether one takes the position that the Holy Spirit enabled them to speak the several languages, or, they preached in their own language and the Holy Spirit miraculously interpreted the language into the language of the hearer, either is a miracle, done by the power of God, and a spiritual gift to the church. The writer holds the latter position.
e. The church was not in position to go into all the world, to every creature, as she was commanded of Jesus to do. They waited in Jerusalem as He asked, and the promise came.
III. THE CHURCH IS NOW UNDER THE COMPLETED WORD OF GOD, THE BIBLE, WRITTEN BY WRITTEN BY INSPIRATION
1. All supernatural gifts have been done away except faith, hope, and love, I Corinthians 13:13. Study I Corinthians 12: l. The subject does not change through chapter 14.
These explain the purpose of these spiritual gifts in the church's development in the faith.
2. The Word of God, believed, preached, taught, and practiced, is God's source of information from which His children get instruction in this age of time, II Timothy 3:16--4:4.
3. Observe the emphasis placed upon hearing and HEEDING the written Word of God, I John 4:6, Romans 16:17, I Timothy 6:3-5, John 12:48, Luke 6:47-49, and I Peter 1:24, 25.
4. If one will not believe this Holy Spirit inspired truth, by faith, he will not believe by seeing a sign, miracle, or anything else, Matthew 12:38, 39 and Luke 16:30, 31.
5. Jesus said He would never leave His church institution, but would "BE WITH THEM ALWAYS, EVEN TO THE END OF THE AGE" (Matthew 28:20). His spiritual presence in the person of the Holy Spirit is meant, but this is not all. We have His inspired Word, the Bible, preserved with tears, toil, blood, work, heartache, persecutions, and great personal sacrifices by His faithful saints through the years since He left to go back to heaven.
QUESTIONS FOR REVIEW
1. What is meant by "Three phases" of the church institution in the Scriptures?
2. Name them.
3. Why could there be only one local church while Jesus was on earth as her pastor?
4. Give reasons why the church did not need the spiritual gifts of knowledge, prophecy, languages, etc., while Jesus was here.
5. What were the last charge and promise the Lord made to His church before He left?
6. Why did Jesus set the office of "apostle" in the church?
7. What gifts did the apostles have after Pentecost that they did not have before? See I Corinthians 13:8.
8. How could the commission be a church commission when it was given to the eleven apostles? Refer back to this point and discuss.
9. How many spiritual gifts remain now?
10. Discuss the importance of believing, preaching, and practicing the Bible in this, our day. How is the work any different now than in the days of the apostles.
The Marks of a New Testament Church
INTRODUCTION: If you were seeking to locate something among hundreds of things, similar in many ways to that for which you were seeking, you would look for CERTAIN KNOWN MARKS that would properly identify the thing sought. Even so, in searching for a New Testament church, like Jesus built, among all the hundreds of churches, similar in some ways but very different in most important qualities, one MUST identify her by certain scriptural marks. In addition to a scriptural measurement, history will attest to the marks that properly identify a scriptural church. Jesus said that the church would be on the earth until He came back (Matthew 16:18) and that He would be with her, Matthew 28:20. Now, to the marks one by one. No doubt, there could be many given, but in this lesson only six will be given which are believed to be very basic and principally essential.
I. CHRIST MUST BE THE HEAD, FOUNDER, AND BUILDER OF HIS CHURCH Colossians 1:18
1. The pope of Rome, head of the Catholic Church, could not be the head of the New Testament church because there is no head but Jesus. Furthermore, the doctrines of the Catholic Church were not by Jesus or His apostles. The Catholic religion developed over hundreds of years beginning about 200 A.D. The spirit of division was present in the times of the apostles. Read III John.
2. Martin Luther was the founder of the Lutheran Church in 1530.
3. John Calvin started the Presbyterian Church in 1535.
4. The Episcopal(English) Church was founded in 154O by King Henry the 3rd.
5. George Fox headed the organization known as Quakers (or Friends) in 1648.
6. The Methodist Church had its beginning in 1729 by John Wesley and his brother, Charles.
7. Alexander Campbell started what is known as the Christian Church and Church of Christ in 1827.
8. The Mormon religion was begun in 1830 by Joseph Smith.
9. Daniel Parker was the founder of the Primitive (Hardshell) Baptist Church in 1832.
10. The Seventh Day Adventist movement had its beginning in 1832 by William Miller.
11. The Jehovah's Witnesses started in 1884 by one called "Pastor Russell.''
12. Mary Baker Glover Patterson Eddy (wow) started the Christian Science movement in 1879.
13. The holiness groups (Pentecostals, Nazarenes, Church of God, Assembly of God, etc.) all had their origin in America (S. F. Breese was one of their founders) in 1885.
14. Unitarianism had its beginning in this country in the 19th century by a Dr. Channing. This religion does not believe in the Trinity or Divinity of Jesus Christ.
15. None of the above religions, or founders of religion, could be the one for which we search in our identification of the true church. Jesus MUST be the head and founder, Ephesians 1:22, 23.
II. THE CHURCH MUST HAVE THE RIGHT GOVERNMENT-CONGREGATIONAL
1. In the congregational form of government which Jesus established in His church, the equality of members is stressed--no one being over the other, etc., Matthew 20:25-28, II Corithians 8: 13-15.
2. Under this principle of government it is necessary for the majority to prevail. This is not to say that a majority is always right, but this procedure must be followed in the exercise of democracy, or, congregational government, II Corinthians 2:6 and Acts 1:26.
3. The church, as such, is to execute the laws of Christ, not just certain ones in the church:
a. The church, as a congregation "looked out seven men" for deacons, Acts 6:1-7.
b. The church at Jerusalem was the authority for the first mission work, Acts 15:22, 23.
c. Above all, the church is not to have the kind of Government in Revelation 2:6, 15. This is the kind most religions have, the kind that "rules over" or "conquers people.'' When the wrong government is allowed and practiced, the church principles will fall apart. Government is the first church principle the Devil invaded when he started false churches.
III THE CHURCH MUST HAVE THE RIGHT OFFICES IN ORDER TO BE A NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH
1. Pastors and deacons are the only two offices of the church, Philippians 1:1. Their qualifications are found in I Timothy 3 and in Titus 1. The pastor is to care for the spiritual welfare of the church, and the deacon is to care for the material welfare of the church. A separate study of these offices is very helpful, but this is to show that these are the only two ordained, permanent offices left in the church institution today.
2. Obviously, the office of apostle fulfilled its purpose, and no one could qualify for it today. Read Revelation 2:2 and II Corinthians 11:11-15. Then read the qualification of an apostle in Acts 1:21, 22. Surely no one could claim these qualifications in our day.
IV. THE CHURCH MUST HAVE THE RIGHT ORDINANCES GIVEN HER BY THE LORD (Pictorial Ordinances)
1. Baptism is a pictorial ordinance. By "Pictorial" it simply means that it PICTURES something.
a. Jesus told His church to go, make disciples, and BAPTIZE them, Matthew 28:19, 20.
b. John's Baptism, that which has been administered by constituted authority, is the only baptism "from heaven" (Matthew 21:25), good even after John and Jesus had finished their earthly work (Acts 1:22). It is the only baptism in the unity of the faith, Ephesians 4:5.
c. This ordinance is to picture the burial and resurrection of Jesus. The Scriptures say the believers are buried "with Him" in baptism, in the "likeness of His death," that "Like as" Christ was raised from the dead, so should the believer also walk in newness of life as His children (Romans 6:4).
d. Therefore, burial in water of a saved person at the hands of a New Testament church is the proper way to be baptized in this day. Notice the order in Acts 2:41, 42.
2. The Lord's Supper is a pictorial ordinance that pictures the death of Christ. The Bible is plain in Matthew 26:26-30 and I Corinthians 11:23-26 that believers "Do show forth the Lord's death till He comes" in this ordinance. Thus, these two ordinances picture the gospel. One can say of a truth that the church has pictures of her Lord's death, burial, and resurrection. She observes them, keeps them, cherishes them. and thereby is reminded of her hope for eternity. These two -no more, no less - the pictorial ordinances left for the church today. Foot washing would be one too many. To leave off either of these is one too few. So, this is definitely a mark of a New Testament church. The ordinances and the restrictions around them help identify the Lord's churches in this evil world of religious confusion.
V. THE CHURCH MUST HAVE THE RIGHT HISTORY BEHIND HER
1. Jesus said in no uncertain terms, and without reservation, "The gates of hell shall not prevail against my church" (Matthew 16:18). He also said that, as sure as she went and preached His gospel, "He would be with her always, even unto the end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). Thus, His kind of a church institution has continued from then until now. He told truth.
2. Paul said God was to receive glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages (Ephesians 3:21). With these promises, believers know that His churches have continued from then until now.
3. But then, the student may wish to know if there is any way they can be traced through history. The answer is, "Yes." To mention a few historians who have written history of churches and have given evidences of Baptist churches down through the ages, the reader is referred to histories by John T. Christian, H. V. Vedder, Benedict's History, Thomas Annitage, A. H. Newman, Haynes' History, Jones' Church History, Cook's Baptist History, George C. Lorimer, Schaff History, Mosheim, Orchard, and many others. But above all, one should get and study a copy of the little booklet called, The Trail of Blood, by Carrol. The Lord's true churches most definitely have a trail of history for proper identification.
VI. THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH MUST TEACH THE TRUTH IN ORDER TO BE SUCH
1. The church must teach the truth about the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19, 20 and Acts 20:26, 27.
a. The Bible does not teach many Gods (Polytheism), but One God (Monotheism); and that Cod the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are a three-in-one God, John 14:4-9 and I John 5:7; and
b. About the Holy Spirit conception, Virgin birth, incarnation, sinless life, and divinity of Jesus Christ the Son of God, Matthew 1:18-25; then His substitutionary death and bodily resurrection and ascension, Romans 4:25 to 5:21.
c. The Holy Spirit is everywhere, Psalm 139:7-13. He makes the truth of God real to the believers' hearts, thus convicting of sin, John 16:8. He also leads the child of God in this life, Romans 8:14. He is the comforter to the church, John 14:15-18. The fruit of the Holy Spirit is named in Galatians 5:22, 23. He is master of the unity in Ephesians 4:1-6.
2 The church MUST teach the truth about sin and salvation from sin in order to witness the redemption of people from its awful consequences. (See lesson number one for this truth.) If a church is wrong in this teaching, she could not possibly be a New Testament church.
3. The church institution MUST teach the truth about the church itself: her origin, faith, purpose, and destiny. Failure to do so will eventually cause her to be lost in a world of religion without proper identification. Timothy was made aware of this in I Timothy 3:14, 15.
4. Then, the church must teach the truth about the very HOPE of believers, namely, the Coming of Jesus, John 14:1-3 and I Thessalonians 4:13-17, et al. God will deal with people, nations, and the world in due time, Acts 17:29-31. The church of our Lord teaches this.
QUESTIONS FOR REVIEW
1. What is meant by the term "MARKS" of a New Testament church?
2. Name the marks that identify a New Testament church in this lesson.
3. Discuss the first mark after reading Colossians 1:18 and Ephesians 1:22, 23.
4. Name the kind of government, the second mark, that' identifies a New Testament church.
5. How many permanent offices are there in the Lord's church institution now? Name them.
6. Were there ever three at any time. If so, what was the other?
7. What are the pictorial ordinances of the church, and why are they so called?
8. Why is it necessary to identify a church by proper historical faith and practice?
9. Name the basic truths a church MUST teach in order to be a church.
10. Now, if you were looking in this world for a New Testament church, do you know what to look for? In addition to all of the above marks discussed, some simple observations will help to determine identification without too much investigation, etc. Always remember that a scriptural church will emphasize the Scripture. They will also exalt Christ. When these are observed, then one can proceed to the other marks as needed.
A N ew Testament Ch UrC h as the Body of Christ I Corinthians 12:27
INTRODUCTION: The Lord has used very simple things about which persons have some knowledge to convey to the minds the proper concept of a local, scriptural church. This lesson is about the church as "His Body." There are certain members of the physical body one can do without and still exist, or live. But, there are certain members one cannot do without and live In other words, there are certain members of the body that are absolutely necessary to its existence. Likewise, there are certain things absolutely necessary to the existence of a church body of the Lord's. The body without the function of every member is limited in its work. It depends on which member, and the extent of the limitation, as to just how limited it is, and the effect it has on the body. Example: One can live, work to some extent, and function in many ways without one of the fingers, toes, etc. It is possible to get along in this world without a leg or arm. And there are those who are blind who do some things. So, the body's limitation depends on the limitation of the members. However, there are certain members the body cannot live without, and these are the ones to study about in this lesson. Therefore, applying that method used by the Lord and His apostles, and using the KNOWN to explain the UNKNOWN, one studies the church body by what is known of the physical body as the Scriptures teach.
I. A BODY CANNOT EXIST WITHOUT A HEAD
1. Jesus Christ is the head of His church according to Colossians 1:18 and Ephesians 1:22, 23. This fact has already been studied concerning Jesus as the founder, and, therefore, heading His church Himself. Now the study is about the relationship of the head to the body.
2. The head means the one in authority. Just as one does what is dictated in his head (brain), so the church should act according to the will of her head, Jesus, Matthew 28:18 and Ephesians 5:23, 25.
3. Just as the human body is controlled by its head, whether one does right or wrong, if the church body would do right, she must be controlled by her head as follows:
a. Christ, as head of His body, leads by His spirit, Romans 8:14. The nervous system of the entire human body is centered in the brain in the head (the feelings, emotions, judgments, and movements.) All should follow the RIGHT head, Jesus, as the church body.
b. His direction, as head of the church, leads by His instructions, II Timothy 3:16, 17. The instructions (the Bible) were given to men from Him, and His Spirit (Holy Spirit) gives life to His words. Thus, the head leads by His Spirit and His Word.
c. His will, His instruction, His thoughts which He has seen best to reveal is HIS revelation, through His apostles and inspired men, or, men whom He has inspired. See John 4:6.
II. A BODY CANNOT EXIST WITHOUT BLOOD
"The life of the flesh is in the blood" Leviticus 17:11
1. The blood of Christ is the life of the church body, Acts 20:28. This means that each member has been cleansed by faith in His blood, and that the church, as such, has been purchased by His precious blood; hence, His blood is the life-giving message of the church body.
2. His (Christ's) blood is the cleansing element that cleanses from sin and flows out to the needy human beings through the church body, Colossians 1:20 and Revelation 1:5. This, therefore, MUST be the message of the church for the world's sin. Unless this is the message, the body does not have life as an institution but, in the sight of God, is dead in so far as being His church is concerned.
3. The continual cleansing quality in His precious blood makes those in Him eternally secure, continually forgiven, and constantly energized for activity, I John 1:7, Revelation 12:11, and Hebrews 9:19-26.
III. A BODY MUST HAVE A SPIRIT IF IT LIVES AND WORKS James 2: 26
1. The Spirit of Christ MUST be the motivating power in both the child of God and the church body. See Romans 8:9 and I Corinthians 12:13. The Holy Spirit is the spirit that is to lead the body.
2. His spirit is in complete unity with all the faith, Ephesians 4:3-7. In these verses there are seven one's. These seven complete the unity of the faith, unifying them into a "bond." It is in these that people are united in the faith (system of doctrines) of Christ. Thus, the church body has the Spirit of Christ.
3. It is His Spirit, which energizes His Word, that counts, John 6:63. It is necessary to hear the message. The Spirit of God uses the words of Jesus to convince of sin. No other message or history of any other truth will do this, John 16:7-14.
4. His spirit alone can give liberty, freedom, and peace, II Corinthians 3:17, John 8:32. People frequently use words like "Freedom," "Peace," and "Liberty." These are some of the cherished blessings in America, especially. However, these words mean very little, if anything, apart from the Spirit of Christ. And this sweet freedom, peace, liberty-giving Spirit is the spirit of the New Testament church body. Past experiences of humanity in history can attest to the fact that local church bodies have been tom asunder by not allowing the Spirit of Christ to reign. It MUST be the spirit of the body if the body lives.
5. The fruits of His spirit are named in Galatians 5:22, 23, and, on the other hand, the works of the flesh are listed in the same chapter. This enables one to see the fruits from the depraved nature, and also gives one assurance and comfort when' he can honestly see that His spirit bears witness with his spirit that he is His, and, when he can see the fruits of the spirit also. Since people can be very easily deceived by spirits, the Lord has given a way for the body to properly evaluate works, fruits, etc.
6. The church body which thinks His thoughts, which means going by the teachings of His Word, exercising His Spirit in His work for His sake, is a:
a. Going church, Matthew 28:19 (Missionary).
b. Preaching and witnessing church, Mark 16:15 and Luke 24:45-48.
c. Working church, Ephesians 2:10.
d. Baptizing (Baptist) church, Matthew 28:19 and Acts 2:41, 42.
e. Clean in doctrines and morals. John 15:3.
f. Expectant church; looking for Jesus to return, Titus 2:13 and II Peter 3:13.
IV. A BODY MUST HAVE SOME MEMBERS I Corinthians 12:14, 20, 27
1. Although a body may be without some members, there are still those that are required. The Lord's church is made up of some members and is illustrated by the human body in Romans 12:5 and I Corinthians 12:12-27.
2. There is a union between Christ and His church, which is a mystery to those who do not believe or understand this teaching. Read Ephesians 6:21-33. The analogy of husband-wife, and Christ and His church is made here. It has always seemed a mystery as to how a person can fall deeply in love with another, then chooses that one above all the millions of the world for his companion in marriage relationship. In other words, why that certain one? It seems that the providence of God has worked it out in such detail as to cause them to meet at the right time, place, etc. Even so, the love, appreciation, and understanding of the church and her purpose in God's plan are only enjoyed by those who hold the concept of the local, visible church as an institution described in the preceding points.
3. As God was in the body of Jesus Christ, revealing Himself to the world, even so Christ is in His church, and the church is to reveal Him to the world.
a. God's attributes were clearly seen in the person of Jesus Christ, II Corinthians 5:18 and Colossians 2:9.
b. Thus, God was revealed to man in the person of Jesus, John 14:5-10.
c. And now His church is to reveal Christ to the world, Romans 1:16, 17 and Matthew 5:14-16.
THE LESSON IN REVIEW
1. Name the four necessities for the existence of a body given in this lesson.
2. What does the head have to do with the body?
3. What does the blood have to do with the body?
4. Discuss how the Spirit of Christ controls the church body. Also the unity in Ephesians 4.
5. How do members make up the body of Christ? What do they have to do to become such?
6. How is this relationship compared to two (a man and a woman) in love, and engaged to be married?
7. Test yourself as to whether you can really tell someone else why the Bible refers to the church as "The Body of Christ."
The Church 1 as the House of God
I Timothy 3:15
INTRODUCTION: Just as the Lord used the human body, about which one has some knowledge, to convey to the mind the proper concept of a local church as the body of Christ, He uses the term "House" in the same way. A simple house like each lives in is used to teach the truth about the church as the House of God when the following is observed, namely: the purpose of a house and things used in its making. Many things are added to houses in which persons live that are not necessary to its being a house, but added for beauty, comfort, usefulness, etc. However, there are some things that are absolute necessities to a house. Likewise, a New Testament church as the House of God may be lacking in many things that would add to her spiritual attractiveness (Titus 2:9, 10), her ability to carry out her commission in as large a scope as she would like, and, therefore. is somewhat limited in her work. But there are certain basic requirements absolutely necessary to a house. These are fundamental and cannot be ignored as a church.
I. A HOUSE MUST BE BUILT BY A PLAN
It may be sketched on paper, a board, or even just in someone's mind, but there is always a plan before a house is built.
1. God has always planned any building He authorized, Hebrews 8:5 and Exodus 25:40. It was not just a passing thought and sudden action, but a prophesied, orderly plan.
2. His church was built, therefore, according to a Divine plan, I Peter 2:5 and Ephesians 2:19-22. It is easily seen in these verses that the church is referred to as a "habitation of God." Is this not what a house is for, a habitation? One likes to think of the house in which he lives in connection with HOME, although a home is an institution. But when one is tired, hungry, in need of rest and fellowship with those whom he loves the most in the world, he likes to think of going home, to his house, where he can go in, relax, eat, sleep, rest, and be re-energized. Likewise, God wants His children to go to His house, His church, to eat of the bread from heaven, rest from the toils of the world's pressure, and be spiritually revived and energized so that he may go on with His work. Hence, the term "House of God."
3. Any building for God MUST be according to His plan, II Timothy 3:16, 17. One is furnished with a blueprint of the "how," and he cannot have recognition, rewards, or be in the house of God except he strives lawfully, II Timothy 2:1-7; note especially verse 5. His house (church) was instituted according to His plan, and any work by her now must also be thus.
II. A HOUSE MUST HAVE A FOUNDATION
1. The foundation of the house in which one lives may be wood, stone, or cement, but there is a foundation. There should be no mistake about the foundation of the Lord's church; read I Corinthians 3:11 and Ephesians 2:19, 20.
2. The church was not only built upon the Rock, Christ Jesus (Matthew 16:18), but His church rests upon this foundation as long as she remains HIS house, I Peter 2:6-8 and Deuteronomy 32:31. By this it is meant that Jesus and His truth must support the church institution continually, or she will fall as His house and no longer be His.
3. He (Jesus). the foundation stone. is the only one that cannot crumble and fall under the curse of sin, Hebrews 1:3; Colossians 1:17; Luke 6:46-49. In the last Scripture in Luke many things are taught by this illustrative lesson. among them is the simple but great truth that the reason one house fell and the other did not was the foundation on which it was built. It was not the difference in the storms, the material, or construction of the material in the houses, etc. But the house on the solid rock, typical of Jesus, was on the right foundation and stood the storms.
III. A HOUSE MUST HAVE MATERIAL, and the material in the Lord's church is the members.
1. After the plan is drawn, or determined, and the foundation is -laid, the material for the building is purchased, or obtained for the building. Jesus gathered material for His church, Matthew 4:18-22. Jesus bought the material for His church with His blood, Revelation 1:5 and I Corinthians 6:19, 20. No greater price could be paid. This is the material (the members) that had been prepared by John the Baptist.
2. But the material had to be constructed into His house. Just as one could have lumber, cement, nails, and other material with which to build a house and still not have a building, even so, the members for Jesus' church had to be organized, or set into order, as His church. So, the church is said to be a habitation of God through the Spirit, having been fitly framed together, etc., Ephesians 2:19-22.
3. The kind of material one uses in building a house is usually specified in the plans. This is as it is with the Lord's church as His house. The material that must be used must be:
a. Saved, converted to Him, and therefore, His.
b. Then baptized by His church.
c. Then added to the church fellowship. The following Scriptures teach this truth: Matthew 3:7, 8; Acts 2:41, 42; Acts 18:8. Thus the plan is made, the foundation is laid. the material is obtained, and then is constructed together into a house of God.
4. After the house is built, it is dedicated, Acts 20:28 and Ephesians 5:25, with the very blood of Jesus. Therefore, the church of Jesus Christ is a blood-bought, Divinely-planned and built institution in the position of the "Pillar and ground of the Truth."
IV. WORK AND WORKMEN ARE REQUIRED IN THE BUILDING OF A HOUSE
1. John the Baptist and Jesus both worked in building His church, John 4:34; 5:17; 9:4. Thus the first New Testament church was already established when Jesus left the earth, John 17:4. What she lacked in being ready to go into all the world and preach to every nation and creature, she received on the day of Pentecost, in Jerusalem, and, of course, as she needed other gifts thereafter until the churches were established in the faith and the Bible was complete. During this time much work was done.
2. His people, the members of the churches, preachers, and all are to work, Ephesians 2: 10; I Corinthians 3:9; Titus 3:8; I Timothy 3:1. As the gospel spread from Jerusalem, other local churches of the same faith were organized, and much work was done for the Lord in His churches. In each case workmen were required in the building of each house (church) of the Lord. As an example see Acts 11:19-26.
3. The very purpose of His church requires work.
a. "Go ye into all the world and preach to every creature" (Mark 16:15) requires work.
b. "Go teach all nations and baptize them" (Matthew 28:19) requires work.
c. All Scriptures that teach the churches to preach, teach, witness, etc., are, of course, teaching us to "Go work in His vineyard, "I Corinthians 1:21; Romans 10: 14, 15; Luke 24:44-48.
REVIEW THE LESSON BY
1. Naming the basic things mentioned in the lesson to have a house.
2. Discuss the way in which these are applied to the church as the House of God.
3. Write on paper why YOU think the Lord referred to His church as His house.
The Lord's Church as the Bride of Christ
John 3:29
INTRODUCTION: Just as the Lord used the term "Body of Christ" in I Corinthians 12:27, and the "House of God" in I Timothy 3:15, He also used the bride and bridegroom relationship to convey to persons' minds the proper concept of the church institution. The Bridal relationship of the church and Christ is one of the most misunderstood doctrines of the Bible, and, as far as is known, Missionary Baptists hold a peculiar position on this teaching. Many teach that Christ and His church are married now, and bring forth children, spiritually speaking. Those who hold this position teach that one MUST be baptized into the body of Christ to be saved. In this way Christ and His church are producing children of God. But this is not what the Bible teaches. Missionary Baptists teach that the Bible reveals Christ's church institution as His bride while here on earth and Christ as the bridegroom. He and His church are now engaged to he married: that in preparation of this future wedding she (the church) must be true faithful, and chaste as a bride, while awaiting this great event. One is saved by believing in Him as a Divine person, Savior, Lord, and Master. But the church is not a person; she is an institution. or an organization, and not a person. As long a• this illustrative teaching is not taken too far, and one looks at the simple teachings of Scripture about the matter, it is a glorious teaching concerning the relationship of Christ and His church. This study covers three major points on this.
I. THE LORD'S CHURCH WAS, AND IS, HIS BRIDE John 3:29
1. In reading II Corinthians 11:2 one notices the words "chaste" and "virgin." Paul is speaking here to the Corinthian Church, and says that he has "engaged" (espoused) her to one husband. This word "espoused" is frequently used with reference to a newly married young person, but it also means one engaged. In this verse this is the meaning because of the rest of the verse, "that I may present you. . ." As one follows the thought he will see that this is future.
2. The relationship NOW is "Bridal," with a view of becoming His wife in the future, so far as the principle of the relationship is concerned, which principle follows. Ephesians 5:25-27 and Revelation 19:7 reveal clearly that the relationship is as a bride, or, engaged, and that the marriage is a future event.
3. The engagement was announced by John the Baptist in John 3: 29. This was God's man to do so. John, pointing to the Lord and His assembly, called them the bride and groom. He called himself the friend of the bridegroom. He said his "joy was fulfilled in this witness." God blessed this first Missionary Baptist preacher with this honor, and thanks be to him for it.
II. THE LORD'S CHURCH INSTITUTION, AS HIS BRIDE, ENGAGED TO HIM, IS TO BE:
1. Faithful to her bridegroom while she is awaiting the wedding, Luke 16:9-13.
a. She loves Him more than anyone or anything else in this world, Matthew 10:37. A bride should love the one to whom she is engaged more than anyone else or anything else.
b. She talks of her beloved more than anyone else, because He is on her mind more than anyone else, Philippians 1:20, 21; Acts 4:19, 20. One's first love, greatest concern and desire, the object of his affection and hope is, of course, what he talks about most. So, it is no wonder that one hears so much about Christ and His coming around one of His true churches.
c. She looks forward, with great expectation, to His coming back and to their wedding day. In I Corinthians 1:4-8, Titus 2:13, and Revelation 9:7, 8 the teaching is clear that a faithful bride looks forward to His glorious coming. A young lady engaged to be married holds the actual wedding day uppermost in her mind. It is the BIG day to her. Excitement, anticipation, joy, and all that goes with such great events builds up as the day draws near. So it is with the coming of the Lord to the true church institution. The coming of Jesus is being preached and taught more and more simply because of the awareness of the nearness of the great day. Why not talk about it? Nothing is wrong with it; just keep enjoying the talking concerning the marriage of the bride and groom when Jesus comes.
2. His bride has pictures to remind her constantly of Him. They are baptism and the Lord's Supper. Just as a young bride has pictures setting out in plain view to remind her constantly of her first love, which pictures she will not part with, but guard with her life, so it is with the Lord's bride. The church, as the bride of Christ, is to "keep the ordinances" as they were delivered to her, I Corinthians 11:2.
a. Baptism is a "figure" (picture) of His burial and resurrection, I Peter 3:18-21. And,
b. The Lord's Supper is a picture to remind her of His death, I Corinthians 11:23-26.
Both of these picture the gospel, the death, the burial, and the resurrection of Christ. They are to remind the bride constantly of her bridegroom and how much He loves her.
3. She is to be pure, true, and loyal to her engagement to the groom, Christ. This simply means TRUSTING His Word, DOING His Word, and LOOKING for His coming. A New Testament church, true to Him, finds herself described by Paul in Philippians 3:20. 21. Thus, FAITHFULNESS is THE requirement of a bride. And the above-mentioned( teachings reveal this very plainly.
III. PROMISES (VOWS) MADE TO THE BRIDE AND HER EXPECTATION OF THEM
1. Although there were "many mansions" in heaven for the saved when Jesus comforted His bride just before He left her in the world, John 14:1-6, He promised her something definite.
a. Jesus assured her that He was going to "prepare a place for her," John 14:2. Evidently there is something SPECIAL for His bride that is more than the mansions referred to in John 14:2. It is the writer's personal belief that the home of the bride is what John describes in Revelation 21:9-27. He does not believe this description in Revelation is figurative; he believes it is an actual description, and that this is the SPECIAL PLACE for His bride.
b. Jesus promises her that "Where He is, there she will be also," because, said Jesus, "I will come again to receive you unto myself," John 14:3. One of the first things an engaged couple begins to make plans for is a place to live. Whether a large or small home or apartment, they make plans for A PLACE. Jesus' love for His bride is seen in the fact that He has gone to prepare a special place for her to dwell when He returns for her.
2. As any groom wants to protect his bride to whom he is engaged, Jesus also said, "I will be with you always, even to the end of the age," Matthew 28:19, 20. This promise is, of course, contingent upon her being faithful in her engagement to preach His Gospel, baptize and teach His commandments. By this, He is with her always. In Matthew 16:18 Jesus said the gates of hell would not prevail against His church institution that HE builds up. That the New Testament church institution will continue is also taught in Ephesians 3:21.
3. Jesus prayed for His church in John chapter 17. Special attention is called to verses 19-26. The last words of verse 26 at, out sum up the great prayer of the Lord for His church when He prayed that the same love the Father had toward Him be in THEM. By this all men could know that His church was composed of genuine disciples of His, John 13:35.
LESSON IN REVIEW
1. Remember, the Lord deals with each local church as though she were the only one on earth. He teaches that the church institution is a local, visible congregation of saved, baptized people united upon His doctrines, for the purpose of doing His will on earth. Thus, each local church with scriptural identification in origin, doctrine, and practice, is THE BRIDE OF CHRIST. Now, this does not mean that Christ has many brides, bodies, etc., but simply that He deals NOW, while under the great commission in this world, with each church in the local concept; hence, the church institution, as such, is His bride.
2. With this in mind, discuss how a church can be unfaithful as His bride.
3. Why does the bride talk so much of her bridegroom? Review from point number two.
4. What are the pictures she has of her groom? How do they remind her of Him?
5. What would Jesus think of His bride if she had someone else's picture (alien baptism and open communion) when He returned?
6. What is the greatest expectation of the bride? Why?
7. Name some of the great promises Jesus made to His bride.
God's Purpose in "You in His Cause"
INTRODUCTION: In the eleven lessons studied thus far some basic doctrines and beliefs are:
1. The Bible-Its inspiration, proof of its inspiration, and the importance of the Bible.
2. Understanding the meaning of FAITH as it is taught in the Scriptures.
3. Each student has studied HOW to rightly divide the Word of Truth as the Bible instructs them to do.
4. Each student has studied about the KEY to this task of rightly dividing the Word of Truth.
5. Then he learned of God's plan in prophecy of the New Testament church institution.
6. The origin of the church was studied, just when, where, and how it began.
7. The three phases of the church as revealed in the New Testament, her growth, etc., were studied.
8. The student learned how to identify a New Testament church by certain scriptural marks.
9. The church as the body of Christ was studied in lesson nine, and why it was called His body.
10. In the tenth lesson the student studied about why the church is called the house of God.
11. The last lesson, then, was about the church as His bride.
In these lessons each student studied distinctive doctrines from Salvation by Grace to the Coming of Jesus. Now, WHY WAS THIS DONE? WHAT DO THESE THINGS HAVE TO DO WITH EACH STUDENT as an individual? What part does each believer have in God's work? Why has God saved him? Why does God ask each to work for Him? Why? Why? The questions could go on, but let each come down to the very purpose of these things to his own personal life.
i. GOD HAS CHOSEN TO WORK THROUGH HUMANITY, SAVED AND BAPTIZED, IN HIS CHURCH
1. This is the very reason why God saved each in the first place-that He might work through him, Ephesians 2: 10; Titus 1:3; 3:8. He saved each believer from eternal hell, but this is not the main reason for saving one, God loved each one. He loves everyone. For this reason His love reaches out to others through each believer. This, then, is the more noble reason for saving a soul; it gives the one being saved an opportunity at least to express appreciation for God's Grace. Therefore, EACH can work for Him. What a privilege! What a blessing! The saved and Christ belong to each other.
2. In John 15:16 Jesus teaches why He chose those brethren. It is simply stated that the reason is that they might go and bring forth fruit. So, as each life produces some kind of fruit while he lives on earth, it is the will of Jesus that each produces fruit from Him. How is this done? Living for Him, worshipping Him in Spirit and Truth, serving with any talent He blesses each with, and giving to support His cause are ways He works in each one to produce fruit. It has been said that "the fruit of a Christian is another Christian," but the impression that unless one is leading others directly to professions of faith he is not producing fruit is wrong. The fruit of a Christian will result in others being saved, to be sure. But godly living, giving, witnessing, teaching, singing, and the many ways a child of God produces fruit are all counted by the timekeeper of justice, mercy, and truth.
3. God calls certain men to preach the gospel; not angels or other beings, but men of God, I Corinthians 1:17-21; Romans 10:13-15. Any child of God can proclaim the gospel of Christ and is called upon of God to put his light on the candlestick and do so. But God calls certain men to fill a definite office of the ministry, Galatians 1:15,16.
4. This is why Jesus organized and sent His church into the world-that each believer could, through this constituted authority, have a part in this great ministry of the gospel, Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-48; Romans 1:14-17. So, God uses human beings who will meet with His conditions. And this can be each believer. Each saved person can apply himself to this great cause.
II. GOD CAN SAVE AND USE ANY RESPONSIBLE PERSON IN HIS CAUSE, "Whosoever Will..."
1. Whosoever will repent of his sins and give his life to Christ can be used of Him. This is made very plain in Matthew 11:28-30 and Ephesians 2:3-7. Note the following:
a. A rich man can be saved, and happily serve the Lord Jesus Luke 19: 2-9 and Acts 4:36, 37.
b. A poor person can be used of God all the same, II Corinthians 8:1-4 and Luke 21:1-4.
c. The ignorant, surrendered to God, willing to learn, can do so, John 7:14-17.
d. The intelligent can he used of God happily, Philippians 3:4-8 and Acts 26:24 et al.
e. Fishermen, farmers, tax collectors, jailers, lawyers, thieves, wicked men and women, or boys and girls can be used of God, Titus 2: 1-6.
2. EACH ONE: is important if truly surrendered to God. HE can serve serve Him in His cause.
a. Some are called to preach because they have what it takes, Hebrews 5:4, I Timothy 3:1.
b. Some have talent to learn to teach others, Titus 2:1-8.
c. Some have qualities for deacons and business matters, Acts 6:1-7; I Timothy 3:8-13.
d. Many have talents to sing, to make music, to praise, etc., Ephesians 5:19.
e. Some have talents of administration and good order in the church, I Corinthians 14:40.
All these talents should be developed to be used in the work of Christ. So, EACH should develop HIS.
3. Everyone can do the following NOW.
a. He can learn how to witness to others and to do so, Luke 8:39 and John 4:28, 29.
b. Each can invite people to the house of God to hear the gospel, Luke 14:23.
c. Each can be faithful in the attendance of services. Hebrews 10: 25.
d. Each can be faithful in the support of God's work, missionaries, and God's cause as He blesses with means to do so, I Corinthians 4:2.
III. WHILE APPLYING THESE THINGS IN A PRACTICAL WAY TO EACH LIFE, EACH CAN ALSO BE:
1. Grateful to God; to His people for their kindness and work and prayers; for food, clothing, his home, family, health, and a land in which he can worship God. In Contrast to worry and fretting all are admonished to be prayerful and thankful instead, Philippians 4:6.
2. Kind and considerate; each can practice this as he learns from God's word, Colossians 4:6 and Ephesians 4:32. These are simple things that mean so much to the Christian testimony.
3. Unselfishness, helpful to others, and "laborers together" with God, I Corinthians 3:9. Others were in the mind of God in His great plan of redemption, Romans 5. Others were in the mind of Christ as He served and gave His life for all. Others were in the minds of the churches after Jesus left the world. All are admonished throughout the Scriptures to be considerate of others. There is a song with a line that says, "Others, Lord help me to live for others, that I may live like thee." Selfishness keeps one from serving God. Selfishness keeps one from giving of time, talents, and means to the service of God. Selfishness isolates men to clanish groups for evil purposes. But unselfishness, kind consideration of others, is the Christian Spirit. May God bless EACH with this gracious gift. And may God help each to exercise the same while he lives in the world.