Foreword 4

Books of the Bible 5

Doctrine 29

Homiletics 58

Shepherding the Flock 69

Holy Living 96

Denominational Relationships 110

Bibliography 112

In this book are 200 lessons to be studied in 40 days of classes, five hours of study each day. We suggest this schedule of classes for the eight weeks:

8:00 - 8:50 Books of the Bible

8:50 - 9:40 Doctrine

9:40 - 10:30 Homiletics

10:30 - 10:50 Intermission

10:50 - 11:40 Shepherding the Flock

11:40 - 12:30 Holy Living, the first four weeks; Denominational Relationships, the second four weeks.

Afternoons and evenings may be devoted to study of the lessons, discussion of the class topics and - very important - putting the lessons into practical use by becoming fishers of men in the neighborhood of the school. These can be the most important hours of the day!

Let us give a word of caution. Some lessons may seem too lengthy, or too difficult, to be carefully understood by everyone in one hour of study. There will be the temptation to carry over the same lesson to the next day's class. But since the lessons have been carefully apportioned for every one of the 200 hours, and since every one of those 200 hours is important, it will not be possible to catch up. If there is unfinished material, continue that class in the afternoon hours and be all prepared for the new lesson the next day!

These 40 days, set aside for the study of God's wonderful Word and preparation for His royal service, can be the most beautiful days of your life. It is our prayer that this will be true, and that after graduation you will put all that you learn into practical use in serving the Lord and leading people, some into salvation and others into growth and fellowship in Him.

The Bible is God’s written revelation of His will to men. Its central theme is salvation through Jesus Christ. The Bible contains 66 books, written by 40 authors covering approximately 1600 years. The Old Testament was written mostly in Hebrew, and the New Testament was written in Greek. The authors were kings and princes, poets and philosophers, prophets and statesmen. Some were highly educated and others were unschooled fishermen.

We shall study the Old Testament this first month of our school. It is made up of 39 books on these subjects:

The Bible is the greatest document available for the human race. It needs to be read, studied, and believed and obeyed.

The first five books of the Bible were written by Moses and are called the Pentateuch. The word "Genesis" means origin, or birth. Genesis is the book of beginnings - the beginning of the world (1:1-25), of the human race (1:26-27), of sin in the world (3:1-7), of the promise of redemption (3:8-24), of family life (4:1-15), of a man-made civilization (4:16-9:29), of the nations of the world (10, 11), and of the Hebrew race (12-50).

Genesis is a history of man’s failure. It begins with "God" and ends "in a coffin". Here is an outline that divides the book into two large thoughts:

I. Entrance of sin on the earth, chs. 1-11.

II. Preparation for the coming of the Redeemer, chs. 12-50.

4. Joseph, who suffered and remained true to God, chs. 37-50.

There were only seventy persons who went down into Egypt, but before they left Egypt they had grown into a nation of three million. Genesis tells of man’s failure; Exodus tells of the redeeming work of a sovereign God. It begins in darkness and gloom, and ends in glory.

Exodus 12 gives us the thrilling story of the Passover, the clearest Old Testament picture of our individual salvation through faith in the shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. The outline of Exodus follows:

1. God prepares Moses, a deliverer, chs. 1-11.

2. Deliverance, by blood and power, chs. 12-14.

3. Marching to Mt. Sinai, the spiritual education of the people, chs. 15-18.

4. Giving of the Law, God’s mirror to show us our exceeding sinfulness, chs. 19-24.

5. Blueprint and construction of the tabernacle, testifying that God was dwelling in the midst of His people, chs. 25-40.

The Book of Leviticus is God’s picture-book to help the children of Israel in their religious training. Every picture pointed forward to the work of Jesus Christ. It is called the Book of Atonement. "Get right," say the offerings. There are five offerings: burnt, meal, peace, sin and trespass. "Keep right," say the feasts. There are eight feasts: Sabbath, Passover, Pentecost, Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles, the Sabbath year, and Jubilee. The sacrifices spoke of the blood that saved. The feasts spoke of the food that sustains.

Numbers is the Book of Wilderness Wandering from Sinai to the border of Canaan, the land of promise. It might also be called the Book of Murmurings. The key thought is discipline. Numbers deals with the believer’s walk.

Chapters 1-10 give us the divine legislation.

Chapters 11-20 tell the story of the nation’s failure.

Chapters 21-36 record Israel’s return to Jehovah’s favor and final victory, even in the wilderness.

These are the important persons in this book: Moses, Aaron, Miriam, Joshua and Caleb.

Deuteronomy is a Book of Remembrance. It is a collection of the speeches and songs of Moses which he gave as his farewell to the children of Israel. This book shows the blessings of obedience and the curse of disobedience. It covers only about two months, including thirty days of mourning for Moses. Jesus often quoted from Deuteronomy. He answered the devil from its writings. Deuteronomy gives a taste of heaven on earth.

Review: In Genesis, we see man ruined; in Exodus, man redeemed; in Leviticus, man worshiping; in Numbers, man serving; in Deuteronomy, man learning to obey.

The Book of Joshua opens the Books of History. It is full of spiritual truth, encouragement and wisdom. Moses was dead, but the march must continue. Joshua completes what Moses began. The book about this great leader falls into two parts:

1. Conquest of the promised land, chs. 1-12.

2. Occupation of the promised land, chs. 13-24.

Judges is the account of the Dark Ages of the people of Israel. The people forsook God (Judges 2:13) and God forsook the people (2:23). Judges covers the period after the death of their great leader, Joshua, to the ascension of Saul to the throne of Israel. There was no king in those first 350 years in the land of promise. This phrase runs through the whole book: "Every man did what was right in his own eyes." The book shows man’s constant failure and God’s constant mercy. It can be outlined this way: Seven apostasies, seven servitudes to seven heathen nations, and seven deliverances!

Ruth speaks to us of Jesus Christ, our Kinsman-Redeemer. This book is a bright picture on the black background of the Judges and is a lovely picture of Christ and the Church. It records the events during the rule of Gideon or Jephthah. Ruth was the great-grandmother of David, the ancestor of Christ. This book tells the beginning of the Messianic family and nation into which the Messiah was to be born. Ruth was a Moabitess, of the people who were descendants of Lot, a heathen people. What a picture of God’s grace, adopting the Gentiles into Christ’s family!

I Samuel is the first of the six King books. They are the two books of Samuel, of Kings and of Chronicles. The events recorded in 1 Samuel cover a period of about 115 years, from the birth of Samuel through the troublous times of Saul to the beginning of the reign of David. The book may be divided under the names of its three chief characters:

1. Samuel, God’s prophet, chs. 1-7.

2. Saul, the king disobedient to God and a failure, chs. 8-15.

3. David, God's man, chs. 16-31.

2 Samuel - First Samuel records the failure of man’s king, Saul. Second Samuel describes the enthronement of God’s king, David, and the establishment of the "House of David" through which the Messiah should later come. David was a man after God’s own heart - not perfect, but repentant when he failed. He was extremely versatile - shepherd boy, court musician, soldier, true friend, outcast captain, king, great general, loving father, poet, sinner and brokenhearted old man, but always the lover of God. The book may be divided into two parts:

1. Triumphs of David, chs. 1-10.

2. Troubles of David, chs. 11-24.

Lesson 7 - FIRST AND SECOND KINGS

These are just a continuation of the Books of Samuel. They cover a period of 400 years and tell the growth and then the decay and division of the kingdom. The Southern Kingdom, Judah, had 20 kings, and the Northern, Israel, had 19. Both Judah and Israel were led into captivity. The powerful voices for God were Elijah, the prophet of judgment and severity, in 1 Kings, and Elisha, the prophet of grace and tenderness, in 2 Kings. These are the important parts of the two books:

1. Death of David, 1 Kings 1, 2.

2. Glory of Solomon’s reign, 1 Kings 3-11.

3. Division of the Kingdom, 1 Kings 12 - 2 Kings 16.

4. Captivity of Israel by Assyria, 2 Kings 17.

5. Decline and captivity of Judah by Babylon, 2 Kings 18-25.

The Books of Chronicles record the same events as the Books of Kings, but from a different perspective. In Kings the history of the nation is given from the throne; in Chronicles it is from the altar. In Kings the palace is the center; in Chronicles, it is the Temple. Kings records the political history, Chronicles the religious. Kings gives us man’s viewpoint; Chronicles gives us God’s. 2 Chronicles records five great revivals: under Asa, ch.15; Jehosaphat, ch. 20; Joash, chs. 23, 24; Hezekiah, chs. 29-31, and Josiah, ch. 35.

1. Genealogies, chs. 1-9.

2. Saul’s reign, ch. 10.

3. David’s reign, chs. 11-29.

1. Solomon’s reign, chs. 1-9.

2. Division of the kingdom and history of Judah, chs. 10-36.

Ezra and Nehemiah tell the story of the return of God’s chosen people after their exile in Babylon. Ezra was a priest: Nehemiah was a layman. The first exodus of the children of Israel was from Egypt under Moses; the second was from Babylon under Ezra. Some Jews had already returned and when Ezra arrived in Jerusalem he found things even worse than he had expected. The Jews had intermarried with people of the land and had done everything that the heathen had taught them (9:1-4). Ezra was grief-stricken (9:5-15); then the people assembled about him and came to a consciousness of the greatness of their sin (10:1-44). At once Ezra led them into a sacred covenant with God.

Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem thirteen years after Ezra. He came with the authority of the king of Persia to build the walls of Jerusalem. He was a real engineer and, in spite of much opposition, the work was accomplished in 52 days.

1. Return from Babylon under Zerubbabel, Ezra 1-6.

2. Return from Babylon led by Ezra, Ezra 7-10.

3. Rebuilding the walls, Neh. 1-7.

4. Revival and reform, Neh. 8-13.

Esther - The name of God does not occur in this beautiful story, but every page is full of God, who hides himself behind every word. The book teaches the providence of God. God is at the steering wheel of this universe. All the events of the book center around three feasts:

1. Feast of King Ahasuerus, king of Persia, when Vashti was rejected and the way was opened for Mordecai to bring Esther, a young orphan in his care, to be introduced to Ahasuerus and became queen, chs. 1 and 2.

2. Feast of Esther, when the Jews’ enemy, Haman, was exposed and condemned to death and Mordecai was elevated, ch. 7.

3. Feast of Purim, which celebrated the deliverance of the Jews from a fearful danger, ch. 9.

Lesson 10 - JOB

Job is the first of the five books of poetry. These books tell of the experiences of the heart. This book is perhaps the oldest book of the Bible. It gives God’s answer to the problem, "Why do godly people suffer?" The story opens with a scene in heaven, and then tells of Job’s fall from prosperity to poverty. This is followed by the great discussion between Job and his friends.

1. The story opens with a scene in heaven. 1:1-12, 2:1-6, and is followed by

3. The great discussion between Job and his four friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, Zophar and Elihu, 2:11 - 37:24. Finally,

4. The climax is reached, when God speaks, 38-42. Jehovah explained to Job that when men see God, something always happens. The godly are allowed to suffer so they may see themselves; then God can lift them up. He has a wise purpose in all suffering. He wants to bring out the gold as by fire.

Psalms is a book of praise, prayer and worship. The Psalms magnify and praise the Lord. Every human experience is related to Him. The life of the believer is pictured in all of its experiences of joy and sorrow, victory and failure. The Psalms are full of Christ. They describe the whole program of His suffering and death. Someone has outlined the Psalms after the pattern of the Pentateuch:

1. Genesis section, Psalms 1 - 41, views man in a state of blessedness, then there is his fall and recovery.

2. Exodus section, Psalms 42-72, pictures Israel's ruin and redemption.

3. Leviticus section, Psalms 73-89, depicts our sanctuary in God, in both darkness and dawn.

4. Numbers section, Psalms 90-106. This section focuses on the earth, its peril and protection.

5. Deuteronomy section, Psalms 107-150. These psalms show the perfection and praise of the Word of God.

Solomon was a great king, famous for his wisdom and riches. He wrote 3,000 proverbs and 1,005 songs (1 Kings 4:31,32). Solomon was a philosopher, a scientist, an architect of a temple that was one of the wonders of the world, and a king. Proverbs is filled with words of wisdom. It can be divided like this:

1. Counsel for young men, chs. 1-10.

2. Counsel for all men, chs. 11-20.

3. Counsel for kings and rulers, chs. 21-31.

Ecclesiastes is the record of all that human thinking and natural religion have been able to discover about the meaning and goal of life. The arguments in the book are not God’s arguments, but God’s record of man’s arguments. The writer is Solomon, and the book is a dramatic autobiography of his experience and reflections while he was out of fellowship with God. Solomon may have been wise, but he did not follow his own wisdom.

Song of Solomon has been called the Christian’s Love Song. There are four important meanings found in this book:

4. It depicts the communion of Christ and the individual believer.

This is the first of the 17 prophetical books. The prophets were men whom God raised up during the dark days of Israel’s history. They were the evangelists of the day. The period of the prophets covered 500 years from the ninth to the fourth centuries B.C. These prophets spoke fearlessly to kings and people alike of their sins and failures. The book of Isaiah has two distinct emphases. In the first part the prophet pictured Israel. In the last of the book he revealed Jesus bearing our load of sin, then Christ exalted and glorified.

Isaiah is a miniature Bible in structure. It has 66 chapters, just as the Bible has 66 books. There are two great divisions, just as there are in the Bible, with 39 chapters in the first, like the Old Testament, and 27 chapters in the second, like the New Testament. The book has been labeled "The Gospel According to Isaiah". Christ’s virgin birth, His character, His life, His death, His resurrection and His second coming are all presented with definiteness and clarity.

Jeremiah is called the "weeping prophet". The message he was called to give broke his own heart. It was the most unwelcome ever delivered to a people. He was called a traitor because he said they were to yield to Babylon (38:17-23). There was only one thing left for Israel to do - surrender. The "times of the Gentiles" had already begun with Babylon, the head of gold in Daniel's vision.

Jeremiah predicted the 70 years captivity in Babylon (25:9-12). However, he saw beyond the darkness to the light, and no prophet spoke so glowingly of the future as he did (23:3-8; 30; 31; 33:15-22). Jeremiah used many object lessons given him by Jehovah in teaching the people. His message was not only unpopular - it was rejected, and his enemies even demanded his death.

It is thought that Jeremiah wrote Lamentations, an exquisite book of poetry of five distinct poems. It is not all sorrow. Above the clouds of the poet’s weeping over the sins of his people, God’s sun is still shining. Read 3:22-27.

Ezekiel was a prophet during the captivity in Babylon. He tried to remove Israel’s false hopes of an early return to Palestine and to prepare them for the news of the tragic destruction of their beloved Jerusalem.

His message was the most spiritual of the prophets', as he deals more with the person of God. He spoke in the darkest days of the nation. The people would not listen to him or to his message, so he resorted to a new method. Instead of speaking in parables, he acted them out (24:24). Ezekiel is the prophet of the glory of the Lord. Here is a quick view of the book - it focuses on the destruction of Jerusalem:

1. Pre-siege, chs. 1-24. Ezekiel began his prophesies six years before Jerusalem’s destruction and kept predicting its certainty until it occurred.

2. Siege, chs. 25-32. After that, his prophesies here deal with Judah’s enemies and the overthrow of these heathen nations.

3. Post-seige, chs. 33-48. Finally, the restoration and re-establishment of Judah are pictured.

Daniel has been called the prophet of dreams because God revealed to him His secrets. He looked far into the future and is quoted most in Revelation. His life and ministry bridge the entire 70 years. He was taken captive about the age of 16 and lived to be over 90. Although he was a captive, he rose to be prime minister of Babylon. The wonderful thing is that he always remained true to Jehovah God.

2. The public life of Daniel - a portrayal of the times of the Gentiles, 2:4-7:28.

3. The prophetic visions of Daniel - the prophetic history of the nation, 8-12.

Hosea is the first of the 12 books known as the Minor Prophets, called that because of the amount of material written. Hosea, whose name means "salvation," has been called the Jeremiah of the northern kingdom. He was a layman called by God to give the distinct message to wayward Israel that God loved them.

Hosea was commanded to marry a harlot, who bore him two sons and a daughter. She played the harlot again, and Hosea put her out of his home. But God commanded him to take her back and love her again.

The message was that Israel was unfaithful to God, but He loved her still and would bring her back to her homeland. The outline of Hosea:

Joel was a prophet to Judah who wrote at the time of a terrible plague of locusts. He compared this to future judgments. He spoke of the "day of the Lord" five times, referring to judgment.

Spiritual deliverance is the great central promise of the book of Joel. Joel had the privilege of telling that God would pour forth His Spirit upon all flesh (2:32; 3:18). This was fulfilled at Pentecost (Acts 2:16).

Amos was a herdsman, and his message was addressed largely to the Northern Kingdom. He feared God so much that he feared no one else at all. Amos started his preaching by proclaiming the Lord’s judgment upon six neighboring nations. Then he came nearer home against the whole nation of Judah and Israel.

Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament - only one page, 21 verses -, but it is still significant for us today. It is the prophecy of judgment against Edom. It includes two important themes - the doom of the proud and rebellious, and the deliverance of the meek and humble. The Edomites descended from Esau, who had despised his birthright - Edom continued to be Israel’s enemy. She was destroyed, as Obadiah warned.

Obadiah, like the other prophets, predicted the coming of the day of the Lord and the establishment of Messiah’s kingdom.

The book of Jonah contains no prophecy, although Jonah was a prophet. It is the personal account of a major event in Jonah’s life, which was a sign of the greatest event in the history of the world - the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In this book, God prepared four things: a great fish (1:17), a gourd (4:6), a worm (4:7), and a vehement east wind (4:8). God was taking care of His prophet!

There are two events of great importance in the book: the great fish swallowing Jonah, and the huge heathen city of Ninevah being converted by an obscure foreign missionary in just a few days.

We must notice two things in this book. First, Jonah is a type of Christ in his death, burial and resurrection. Second, Jonah is also a type of Israel - disobedient to God, swallowed by the nations of the world, who will yet give her up when Christ comes. Then Israel will be witnesses of God everywhere.

Micah proclaimed judgment on Jerusalem and the cities of Israel. But he hastened on to words of hope. He looked beyond doom and punishment to the day of glory when Christ would reign. The Messiah will come (4:8). He will be born in Bethlehem (5:2-4).

A natural warning comes from Micah’s three messages, each beginning with "Hear".

3. The third (6:1) was a personal word of pleading to Israel to repent and return to God.

The theme of Nahum is the destruction of Nineveh, the city that Jonah warned. Nahum was written about 150 years after the revival of Jonah’s day. The repentance did not last and Nineveh was destroyed because of her sin (3:1-7).

Nineveh is a type of all nations that turn their backs on God. The person or nation that deliberately rejects God deliberately and fatally elects doom.

Habakkuk asked questions and received answers. The question,"Why do the wicked prosper?" is discussed. In all his difficulties, he went to God in prayer and waited patiently for His answer(2:1). After a sincere prayer (3:1-16),God’s glory appeared.

The words, "The just shall live by his faith" (2:4) had great significance in the Reformation. These words are quoted in the New Testament: Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11 and Hebrews 10:38.

Zephaniah is filled with the wrath and judgment of God (1:15; 3:8), but there is the undertone of the love of God (3:17). Zephaniah denounced the various forms of idolatry. He may have been mainly responsible for the revival under Josiah.

Most of the Old Testament prophets spoke before the captivity. Just two, Ezekiel and Daniel, prophesied during the captivity. These three, Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi, prophesied after the return.

The reconstruction and refurbishing of the Temple were the supreme passion of Haggai. He rebuked the people for their slowness in rebuilding it, and he encouraged and helped them in the enterprise. His book is a series of four brief messages written over a period of four months.

His stern call to duty was a good tonic. The people arose and began to build the temple (1:12-15).

Zechariah, a young prophet, stood alongside the aged Haggai, strengthened the children of Israel as they built the temple and warned them not to disappoint God as their fathers had done. He painted in glowing colors the perpetual blessing that was coming to Israel in far-off ages.

Zechariah foretold the Saviour more than any other prophet except Isaiah. Looking far into the future he saw Him first in humiliation and suffering, and again, in majesty and great glory.

Malachi is the bridge between the Old and New Testaments. A silence of 400 years lies between Malachi and the voice of John the Baptist saying "Prepare ye the way of the Lord."

The Old Testament ends with the word "curse", while the New Testament closes with a blessing. Following a period of revival (Neh. 10:28-39), the people had become spiritually cold and morally lax. Malachi came as a reformer, and he encouraged while he rebuked.

Read Malachi’s solemn declaration concerning the second coming of Christ, for which we wait, 3:16-4:3.

The word "Gospel" means "good news". The four writers are called evangelists, which means bringer of good tidings. Matthew, Mark and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels because, unlike John, they give a synopsis - a view together, a collective view - of Christ’s life.

The Synoptic Gospels tell of Christ’s ministry chiefly in Galilee, while John tells about Judea. The Synoptics narrate His miracles, parables and addresses to the multitudes; John presents His deeper discourses, His conversations and prayers. The three portray Christ in action; John portrays Him in meditation and communion.

All that the prophets have said leads to our Lord’s earthly life and work, and all that follows in the Epistles proceeds from them. The Gospels are the source.

Matthew presents Jesus as King. Written primarily for the Jew, He is presented as the Son of David. His royal genealogy is given in chapter 1 and goes back to Abraham. 29 quotations from the Old Testament are given, more than any other Gospel, showing that Christ was the fulfillment of prophecies of the Messiah.

Matthew was a tax collector at Capernaum, under the Roman law, when Jesus chose him (9:9; 10:3). The other evangelists tell about the great feast he gave Jesus and record the significant fact that he left all to follow Him. No doubt he was a man of means.

Matthew is the Gospel of the Messiah, God’s anointed One. The main purpose of the Spirit in this book is to show that Jesus of Nazareth is the predicted Messiah of whom Moses and the prophets wrote.

Matthew alone tells of the visit of the wise men from the East. The Sermon on the Mount sets forth the Constitution of the Kingdom. The word "kingdom" occurs 55 times in Matthew, for this is the Gospel of the King.

Much of Jesus’ discourse in Matthew 24 and 25 is devoted to His second coming.

The ascension of Jesus is not recorded in Matthew. The curtain falls with the Messiah still on earth, for it is on earth that the Son of David is yet to reign in glory.

Mark depicts Jesus as Servant. Written to the Romans, there is no genealogy. Why? Because men are not interested in the genealogy of a servant.

The writer was John Mark, the son of Mary and the cousin of Barnabas. He accompanied Paul and Barnabas to Antioch, and was the cause of some trouble between them (Acts 12:25; 13:5). Then he left them, probably because of hardships (Acts 13:13). Finally he became a great help to Paul (Col.4:10,11; 2 Tim.4:11). Peter was the means of his conversion and spoke of him as "my son" (1 Pet.5:13). We see Peter’s influence in this Gospel.

This is the shortest Gospel, full of action and accomplishment. Mark wrote this Gospel in Rome, evidently for Romans. They were a busy people and believed in power and action. They cared more for deeds than for words. Few Old Testament Scriptures are quoted. Only four parables are given. There is no lengthy introduction. The words "forthwith", "straightway", "immediately", showing speed, are used 40 times.

Luke sets forth Jesus as the perfect Man. Written to the Greeks, his genealogy goes back to Adam, the first man, instead of to Abraham. As a perfect Man, Jesus is seen much in prayer and with angels ministering to Him.

Luke was a physician, the companion of Paul. He was the only Gentile writer of a New Testament book. He was an educated man and a keen observer. He was also the writer of the Acts. He presents Jesus as the ideal of perfect manliness.

This is the Gospel for the sinner. It shows Christ’s compassionate love in becoming man to save man.

Dr. Luke has given us the fullest particulars concerning the miraculous birth of Jesus. He alone tells of the visit of the shepherds. Only Luke tells of Jesus’ visit to the temple when he was 12. As a man He toiled with His hands, suffered. Five out of the six miracles in this Gospel were miracles of healing. Luke alone tells of healing Malchus’ ear (22:51).

Luke’s is the Gospel for the outcasts on earth. He has most to say about womanhood. His is a poetic book with beautiful songs. He speaks more of the prayers of the Lord than any other writer.

John portrays Jesus as the Son of God. Everything in this Gospel illustrates and demonstrates His divine relationship.

The author was John, "son of thunder", the "disciple whom Jesus loved". His father was Zebedee, a prosperous fisherman; his mother was Salome, a devout follower of the Lord. His brother was James.

John wrote nearly a generation after the other evangelists. He may have been around 25 when Jesus called him. He had been a follower of John the Baptist. Later in life he was banished to Patmos somewhere between 80 and 100 A.D., when all the New Testament was complete except for his own writing.

John is more elevated in tone and more exalted in view than the other Gospels. 35 times Jesus speaks of God as "my Father" in John. 25 times He says "Verily, verily", speaking with authority.

John says that he wrote his Gospel that men might believe that Jesus is the Christ. John brings seven witnesses to this: 1:34; 1;49; 6:69; 11:27; 20:28; 20:31 and 10:36. He records seven miracles: 2:1-11; 4:46-54; 5:1-47; 6:1-14; 6:15-21; 9:1-41 and 11:1-57. And Christ’s God-nature is revealed in the seven "I Am’s" of this book.

Lesson 26 - ACTS

Luke, in his Gospel, shows what Christ "began to do" on earth. In Acts he shows what He continued to do, by the Holy Spirit.

The ascension of our Lord is the closing scene in Luke. It is the opening fact in Acts.

Acts records the acts of the Holy Spirit through the Apostles. His name is mentioned about 70 times. The word "witness" is used over 30 times.

The book opens with the preaching of the gospel in Jerusalem, the metropolis of the Jewish nation. It closes with the preaching of the gospel in Rome, the metropolis of world power. In one generation the Apostles had moved out in every direction and had preached in every nation of the then known world (Col.1:23).

In Acts 1 through 12 we find Peter witnessing to the Jews. His message is "Repent". In Acts 13-28, we find Paul witnessing to the Gentiles. He says, "Believe".

Acts is a fine guidebook to missions. It shows the motive for missions - bringing men to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. The first church pursued a definite program in carrying out its plans - they chose a great radiating center of population for a base. The dependence was upon the Holy Spirit, and there was great zeal. Paul’s three missionary journeys were prime examples of effective missionary work.

This is the first of the Epistles. 13 were written by Paul, so are called the Pauline Epistles. (This includes Hebrews, although we are not certain that Paul was its author.) Paul was born of pure Jewish stock. The combination of Roman citizenship, Greek education and Hebrew religion wonderfully qualified him for his great work.

Visitors from Rome, in Jerusalem for the Passover and converted at Pentecost, went back to the capital, carrying the seed of the gospel, and planted the church there. 28 years later Paul was eager to visit it and sent this letter from Corinth, where he spent three months on his third missionary journey.

The Book of Romans shows God’s method of making guilty men good. It is the greatest document on our salvation.

Outline: Chapters 1-8 are doctrinal. The first three chapters (see especially 1:18 and 3:20) show the terrible sinful condition of man. The righteousness of God given through justification follows (3:21-5:11). Next comes the message of the sanctification of the saints (5:12-8:39).

Chapters 9-11 are dispensational, showing God’s purpose with Israel throughout history.

The last four chapters, 12-16, are practical, showing a Christian’s duty.

Carnal Corinth was the sin center of the Roman Empire in Paul’s day. It was the most important city of all Greece. Its wealth was fabulous. Base immorality was rampant.

Against this corrupt background, Paul preached the gospel in Corinth, founded the church, and wrote these two epistles.

The Corinthians had sent a delegation with a letter (7:1, 16:17), and First Corinthians is Paul’s answer concerning conditions in that church. Carnality had entered, and there were divisions. Christians were going to the law against Christians and behavior at the communion table was disgraceful. The women were not modest and the church membership was arguing over marriage and spiritual gifts.

Paul wrote Second Corinthians to express his joy over the encouraging news of how his first letter was received, and to defend his apostleship. He gives more of his personal history in this letter than in any other.

The epistle begins with "comfort" (l:3) and closes with "comfort" (13:11).

During Paul’s second missionary journey he founded the churches in Galatia, a rural area. Teachers of the law had followed Paul, teaching salvation by works. False teachers had begun to "bewitch" the people by telling them they must keep all kinds of ceremonies. Paul wanted them to know that nothing, no works, could bring them to Christ. Salvation comes by believing on Christ - nothing else. When Paul heard the Galatians were on the verge of accepting the views of these false teachers, the matter seemed so urgent that he wrote the letter himself (6:11).

This epistle is the Christian’s Declaration of Independence. It contrasts law and grace.

It is a stern, severe and solemn message. It contains no commendation or praise or thanksgiving. No one is mentioned by name. There is emotion and strong feeling - this is a fighting epistle. It was Martin Luther’s favorite epistle. It is the strongest declaration and defense of the doctrine of justification by faith in all Scripture.

This is one of the four prison epistles (Philippians, Colossians and Philemon are the others). It shows the great mystery of the Church. It is sometimes called "Paul’s Holy of holies", or "Paul’s third-heaven epistle".

Paul had been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to enter Asia - where Ephesus was the prominent center - on his second missionary journey. He went into Europe as far as Corinth, after which he returned by way of Ephesus. He returned there on his third journey and had a ministry there of two years (Acts 18:19 and 19:8-10). The people of Ephesus heard more Bible teaching from Paul than did any other people. He met opposition there, but God preserved him. He loved the church at Ephesus.

1. The believer’s position - "in Christ", "in the heavenlies"; chap. 1-3.

2. The believer’s walk, chap. 4-6.

These epistles, like Ephesians and Philemon, were written from prison.

Philippians is basically a "thank you" letter carried by Epaphroditus to the church at Philippi expressing the gratitude of Paul and Timothy for the gift they had received.

Paul had a special love for the church at Philippi. He had met with a group of women by the riverside and Lydia was saved. Later Paul and Silas were thrown into prison and beaten. At midnight, as they prayed and praised God, a great earthquake rocked the prison. The jailer and his family believed in Christ and were baptized (Acts 16).

Joy is the keynote of the book: Joy in suffering, chapter 1; Joy in service, chapter 2; Joy in Christ, chapter 3, and Joy in contentment, chapter 4.

Paul wrote Colossians because heresy was being taught and he had to correct it. The Christians thought they should retain circumcision, their food-laws and festivals and angel intermediaries. They did not understand the idea of the deity of Christ, so they didn’t understand that everything they needed could be found in Jesus.

Paul and Silas founded the church at Thessalonica on Paul’s second missionary journey (Acts 17:1-10). They stayed less than a month because of the mob gathered by the Jews. The young church showed remarkable strength. Its members were chiefly Gentiles converted from heathenism and they were facing a hostile and pagan environment.

Paul was anxious to know how they were progressing. Timothy brought him news (3:6), and he wanted to encourage them to persist in faith. 1 Thessalonians contains little doctrine but much encouragement. Paul speaks much of the second coming of Jesus (1:10; 2:19; 3:13; 4:16-18 and 5:23) as an incentive to Christian living and service.

2 Thessalonians was written shortly after the first. Its theme is the second coming of Christ. Some had been confused about it from the first letter. This letter announces events that will precede His coming and encourages the Christians to endure persecution, to be industrious and to wait patiently for Christ’s return.

The three letters, 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus, are known as pastoral epistles because they are taken up with advice given by a mature pastor to younger men who in turn would be training others for the pastoral office.

Timothy’s father was Greek but his mother was Jewish. He was converted when perhaps fifteen years old when Paul visited his home town of Lystra (Acts 16:1-3; 1 Tim. 1:2). Seven years later he became Paul’s missionary companion.

1 Timothy - After his first imprisonment Paul visited Ephesus. When he had to leave, he left Timothy in charge of the work. Timothy, a shy and sensitive person, found being left alone a sore trial. Paul wrote to him from Corinth to encourage him and give him practical advice.

The key verse is 3:15. Timothy is advised to warn against false teaching and to stress the importance of prayer. Clear instructions are given for church officers and for the qualities of a good minister.

2 Timothy is Paul’s last letter, written while he was in a Roman dungeon, believing the time of his departure was near. He was arrested quite suddenly at Troas and had not had time to pick up his books and parchments (4:13) and his outer cloak. He was alone (4:10-12) and expected to be executed. He wrote urging Timothy to come and bring Mark with him and some of the things he had left behind.

Titus was a pure Gentile and was also one of Paul’s converts (1:4). Paul gave Titus the difficult task of trying to sort out the problems in the church at Corinth (2 Cor.7:6,7). Paul had great confidence in Titus’ abilities because later he was left in Crete to play a leading part in the life of that difficult church (1:5). Titus was a "trouble shooter", the man to handle a delicate situation. He seems to have been a sturdier man than Timothy and probably more mature.

The letter is full of practical advice and warning against false teaching. The main theme contains counsels and exhortations relating to ministerial duties and doctrines, with special emphasis upon the maintenance of good works.

Philemon is a beautiful letter of intercession, pleading with Philemon to forgive Onesimus, his runaway slave, and restore him to favor.

Philemon was apparently a prosperous man (5-7, 22) and he probably was Paul’s convert (v.19). Onesimus had fled away to Rome where he came under Paul’s influence and was converted (10).

Here there is the testimonial about Onesimus’ changed character and a tender appeal for forgiveness.

This epistle has no signature, but many believe it was written by Paul. It was written primarily to Hebrew Christians, and its purpose was to show that the glory of the Christian dispensation far outshone the Old Testament priesthood. Christ is the perfect priest, offering the perfect sacrifice.

The first ten chapters show that the Son of God is superior to angels, to Moses, to Joshua, to Aaron and to Melchizedek. Chapters 11 through 13 show the life of faith.

The author is probably the brother of Jesus who became the leader of the church in Jerusalem (Acts 12:17;l5:13). He was martyred in A.D. 62.

The letter was apparently written to the Jewish converts who lived outside the Holy Land, but its message is so clear and practical that it applies to the lives of all Christians. Its main theme is practical religion, manifesting itself in good works.

Some passages apply to Christians in particular circumstances: for those under pressure (1:2-4), for wealthy Christians (1:9-11; 5:1-6), for their attitudes as church members (2:1-9), for those in leadership (3:1), and for those who are wavering (5:19-20).

James uses vivid picture language to illustrate his teaching. Look at these examples: 1:6,11,17,23,26; 3:3,5,7,12; 4:14; 5:1-2,7.

1 Peter is a letter to suffering Christians who were bewildered because they were being persecuted. It is lively and written from the heart, and it reads more like a sermon than an essay. The key word "suffering" occurs 15 or more times.

Peter talks about the glorious salvation in Christ and the believer’s life, his position and duties. He describes civil and social duties, general good citizenship and duties in the household of faith. He describes Christ as the source of hope (1:3), the sacrificial lamb (1:19), the chief corner stone (2:6), the perfect example (2:21), the ideal sufferer (2:23), the sin bearer (2:24), the shepherd of souls (2:25), and the exalted Lord (3:22).

2 Peter is a warning against corrupt teachers and scoffers. Great emphasis is laid upon the Word of God and the certainty of fulfillment of the divine promises. Like 2 Timothy, 2 Peter stresses that the end is near and that perilous times are ahead for the church.

Peter’s epistles list seven precious things: fiery trials (1:7), the blood of Christ (1:19), the living stone (2:4), Christ Himself (2:6), the meek and quiet spirit (3:4), the believer’s faith (2 Pet.1:1), and the divine promises (2 Pet.1:4).

1 John - This may be entitled "The Epistle of Certainties". Its key words are fellowship, know and love. It lays great stress on the spiritual knowledge available to believers. The word "know" or its equivalent occurs over 30 times. The central theme is:

3. Faith and Love are overcoming principles in the conflict with the world and all evil powers, chap. 5.

2 John was written to warn friends against heresy and association with false teachers (vs.7-11). The word "love" appears four times and "truth" five times.

3 John was written to Gaius, a consistent Christian given to hospitality. The subject matter centers around him and two others, Diotrephes, whom John will rebuke when they meet, and Demetrius, a model Christian of excellent reputation.

Jude was written by the younger brother of Jesus and James. Jude writes to a group of Christians threatened from within by men who have "slipped in" and are creating division by their false teaching. Jude’s intention is to stiffen the resistance to such teachers.

This book was written by John while he was in exile on the Isle of Patmos. It was written during a time of persecution (2:13) and there was worse to come (2:10), as worship of the Roman emperor became obligatory. So the letters to the churches, and the book as a whole, were needed to encourage the Christians to stand firm.

The book is difficult to understand, but it is extremely important, for it gives the picture of what is leading up to the great consummation of all prophecies, when evil is judged and Christ is established as King in eternal glory.

This is the only book in the Bible that contains a special promise to obedient readers (1:3), and pronounces a curse on those who tamper with its contents (22:18,19).

The closing chapters of Revelation contain a striking contrast to the opening chapters of Genesis.

Genesis speaks of the creation of the sun, the entrance of sin into the world, the curse pronounced, Satan’s triumph and the exclusion from the "tree of life".

Revelation tells of a place where there will be no need of the sun, sin will be banished, the curse will be ended, Satan overthrown and there will be admission to the tree of life.

You may have decided from the title of this course that it was going to be very difficult and, perhaps, dull. But you will find, instead, that these lessons will group together the facts scattered throughout the Scripture about the important truths of our faith. The word "doctrine" really means "teaching", and these teachings will answer questions that you have had, and that your people will ask you over and over again in the future years of your ministry. By your careful study you will be able to teach them so they will not be "carried away by strange doctrines" (Heb. 13:9).

Note: Much of the material for these lessons comes from these two fine books: 100 Bible Lessons, by Douglas Alban, published by Gospel Literature Service in Bombay, India, and The Great Doctrines of the Bible, by William Evans, published by Moody Press in Chicago.

There are many proofs that God exists. In this lesson we will consider a few of them:

1. Proof from Scripture - The Bible opens with the positive fact that God does exist (Gen. 1:1) and it plainly states that it is the fool who denies His existence (Psa.14:1).

2. Proof from creation - The beauty and glory of the heavens testify that God exists (Psa.19:1), and creation teaches about the eternal glory of the Godhead (Rom. 1:20).

3. Proof from conscience - Man is born with a universal belief in a supreme Being.

4. Other evidences - There are many other evidences of the existence of God, such as:

- The world is here. Somebody or something must have brought it into being.

- Its design shows it is the result of a superior planning mind.

- Man has an intellectual and moral nature, showing that the Creator must be a living, intelligent, moral being.

- Life must have a beginning, and must have come from a Being having eternal life.

Conclusion: - Consider Heb. 11:6 -"He that comes to God must believe that He is". Let us come as children in simple faith, based on the revelation of God in Scripture and nature, believing and trusting Him completely.

The only true knowledge about God can be gained from the Bible (Jn. 1:18; 1 Jn.4:12). Let us examine a few facts it gives about Him.

1. His personality - Personality is characterized by possessing knowledge, feeling and will power. Our God is an individual that is living and has definite characteristics (Jer.10:10, 1 Thess.1:9).

2. His nature - God is a Spirit. A spirit has neither flesh, bones or blood (Jn. 4:24).

3. His unity - The Lord our God is ONE God, in contrast to the plurality of pagan gods (Deut. 6:4; Isa.44:6).

Conclusion - The more we learn about Him, the more we realize that our God is a great God!

Does the word attribute sound difficult? It simply means a quality, or a unique characteristic of something. In this lesson we will study some of the attributes of God.

1. He is eternal - To be the true God He must have neither beginning nor ending (Psa. 90:2; 1 Tim. 1:17).

3. He is omnipotent - That means He possesses all power (Job 42:2; Jer. 32:27).

4. He is omnipresent - that is, He is present everywhere at one and the same time (Psa. 139:7-9).

5. He is omniscient - He has all knowledge (1 Chron. 28:9; 2 Chron. 16:9; Psa.94:11; Job 42:2; Isa. 40:28).

Conclusion - Poor, pitiful man must have a God with all of the attributes we have studied in this lesson. Why is each one of them essential to men?

Each one of the moral attributes of God could become the subject of a sermon. Let us notice some of them:

In weeks ahead, consider these other moral attributes of our God: He is glorious (Ex. 15:11; Psa. 145:5); gracious (Ex. 34:6; Psa. 116:5); longsuffering (Num. 14:18; Micah 7:18); jealous (Josh. 24:19; Nahum 1:2); compassionate (1 Kings 8:23); great (2 Chron. 2:5; Psa. 86:10); unsearchable (Job 11:7; Psa. 145:3); invisible (Job 23:8,9; 1 Tim. 1:17); good (Psa. 25:8; Psa. 119:68); upright (Psa. 25:8; Psa. 92:15); immutable (Psa. 102:26,27; Jas. 1:17); light (Isa. 60:19; 1 Jn. 1:5; true (Jer. 10:10); perfect (Matt. 5:48); incorruptible (Rom. 1:23); immortal (1 Tim. 1:17; 6:16); a consuming fire (Heb. 12:29), and there is none like Him (Ex. 9:14; Deut.33:26).

Conclusion: The holiness of God demanded punishment for sin. How can God be both loving and demand holiness at the same time? How can He be both merciful and just at the same time to a guilty sinner? The answer can be found only in Calvary, the expression of the wrath of God against sin and the mercy of God toward the guilty sinner.

There is one God, eternally existing and manifesting Himself to us in three Persons; Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

1. The baptism of Jesus in Matt. 3:13-17 - The Father spoke from heaven, the Son was baptized, and the Holy Spirit descended like a dove and alighted on the Saviour.

2. The baptismal formula in Matt. 28:19 - "baptizing in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost."

3. The benediction of 2 Cor. 13:14 - "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost."

4. The record of the creation of man uses plural terms -Gen. 1:26: "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness."

Conclusion - Man, too, is a tripartite (that means, having three parts) being - body, soul and spirit - for we are made in the image of God.

With each of these statements about Jesus you will see the Old Testament prophecy, followed by the New Testament record of its fulfillment hundreds of years later. These are amazing facts!

1. Christ would come out of Israel - Num. 24:17-19; Matt. 1:17.

2. Christ would be born of the family of David and of the tribe of Judah - Gen.49:10 and Isa. 11:1; Luke 1:31-33.

5. Christ’s coming was announced by a forerunner - Isa. 40:3; Matt. 3:3.

7. He would spend part of His childhood in Egypt - Hos. 11.1; Matt. 2:13-18.

8. He would suffer and make atonement for sin - Isa.53:46; 2 Cor. 5:21.

9. He would ride into Jerusalem on a colt - Zech.9:9; Matt. 21:2-5.

10. He would be given gall and vinegar in His agony on the cross - Psa. 69:21; Matt. 27:34.

11. Not a bone would be broken, contrary to Roman crucifixion practices - Psa. 34:20; John 19:33-36.

12. Men would cast lots for His garments - Psa. 22:18; Matt. 27:36.

13. He would utter certain words in His dying agony - Psa.22:1; Mark 15:34.

Conclusion - Each of these prophecies is another evidence of the power and omniscience of our God!

We know that Jesus is God for He possesses the attributes that belong only to God. Study these verses that show them.

1. He is eternal - Micah 5:2, also John 8:58; Col. 1:17; Rev. 1:8.

2. He is unchangeable - Heb. 13:8.

3. He is omnipotent - Luke 8:24; also Matt. 28:18).

4. He is omnipresent - Matt. 18:20; John 1:48; John 3:13; Matt. 28:20.

5. He is omniscient - Mark 11:2-6; John 2:24,25; Luke 5:22; Matt. 24:3-31).

7. He is just - John 2:14-17, in the cleansing of the Temple; Acts 17:31, a righteous Judge.

The five works of God are ascribed to Jesus: creation (John 1:3); preservation (Heb. 1:3); forgiveness (Luke 7:48); raisingthe dead (John 6:39) and judgment (John 5:22).

Conclusion - The fact of Jesus’ resurrection is the strongest proof that He is God.

In order to be the Saviour, Jesus had to be not only divine and virgin born, but He must also be a true man (1 Tim.2:5). Notice these evidences of His humanity:

1. He was given human names (Matt. 1:21). The phrase "Son of man" occurs 77 times.

5. He loved (Mark 10:21, John 11:36); had compassion (Matt. 9:36).

7. He groaned (John 11:33); He wept (John 11:35, Luke 19:41).

8. He possessed body (John 1:14); soul (Matt.26:38); and spirit (Luke 23:46).

2. His birth of the Virgin Mary is recorded by Matthew and Luke.

4. He was taken to the Temple of Jerusalem when he was 12 (Luke 2:41-48).

5. He spent the early years of His life as a carpenter in Nazareth (Mark 6:3).

6. The first six months of His ministry were in Judea, Samaria and Galilee.

7. The second stage covered six to eight months of preaching, healing the sick and performing miracles in Capernaum and Galilee. Here is the scope of Jesus’ miracles:

B. Over devils (Mark 5:12-13, Matt. 8:28-32; 9:32,33; 15:22-28; 17:14-18; Mark 1:23-27).

C. Over disease - palsy (Matt.8:13; 9:6); impotent man (John 5:9); curing a withered hand (Matt. 12:13); spirit of infirmity (Luke :12); stanched a flow of blood, (Matt.9:22); cured dropsy (Luke 14:2); healed fever (Matt.8:15); gave speech to the dumb (Matt. 9:33); sight to the blind (John 9:1:38); hearing to the deaf (Matt.11:5); cured leprosy (Matt. 8:3, Luke 17:19).

D. Over death - Lazarus (John 11:43,44); Jairus’ daughter (Matt. 9:18-26); son of widow of Nain (Luke 7:12-15).

E. Miscellaneous - water to wine (John 2:1-11); feeding of 5000 (John 6:1-14); walking on sea (John 6:15-21); feeding of 4000 (Matt. 15:32-39); cursing the fig tree (Matt. 21:18-22); finding coin in fish’s mouth (Matt. 17:27), and miraculous draught of fishes (Luke 5:1-11 and John 21:6)

F. His own resurrection was the greatest miracle of all (1 Cor.15:4; Rom. 1:4)

8. The third stage, the later Galilean ministry, lasted about a year in and about Galilee. Crowds followed Him. He preached the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5, 6 and 7).

9. In the next stage, the Pharisees hound Him to seek His life. Jesus travels to Capernaum, Phoenicia, Bethsaida, Caesarea and Philippi and finally re-enters Galilee.

10. The last six months were spent teaching, preaching and traveling.

11. The last week included Palm Sunday, the Last Supper, Gethsemane, the trials and death by the cross.

13. Forty days after the resurrection He ascended visibly and bodily into heaven (Acts 1:10,11).

Discussion - What events in his earthly life show Christ's deity? What events demonstrated His humanity?

The resurrection is mentioned 104 times in the New Testament and is the foundation doctrine of the Scriptures. Christianity is the only religion with a living originator!

3. People talked to Him after the resurrection: Peter, Mary, Cleopas and Thomas.

3. It was an immortal body, one that will never die - Rom. 6:9.

Conclusion - Today the most feared conqueror is death, but resurrection is a greater power, for it completely breaks the power of the grave.

Why do we say that the Holy Spirit is a person? Here are some reasons:

In John 16:7-8 and 13-15 the Greek masculine pronoun "He" is used of the Holy Spirit. See also John 15:26.

2. He possesses characteristics of a person.

1. Will power - 1 Cor. 12:11

6. Commands - Acts 16:6,7; calls men to work and gives them tasks - Acts 13:2.

He is the official Comforter - John 14:16. The Greek word "Parakletos" means "one alongside". He is a personal companion.

Conclusion - The Holy Spirit is a person because He thinks, purposes, feels, knows, wills, loves and grieves and performs the actions of a person.

The Holy Spirit is God Almighty, equal to the Father and the Son in every respect.

6. Convincing men of righteousness and of judgment to come - Jn. 16:8-11.

Assignment - List three passages in the Old Testament, besides the ones given above, which speak of the Holy Spirit.

6. The Spirit of Wisdom and Knowledge - Isa. 11:2; 61:1,2; Luke4:18.

1. Water - John 3:5; 7:38,39 - Water fertilizes, refreshes, cleanses, is freely given, is abundant.

3. Wind - John 3:8 - Wind is powerful, reviving, independent, invisible but effective.

4. Oil - Psa. 45:7. Oil consecrates, comforts, illuminates,

5. Rain and dew - Psa.72:6. Rain is refreshing, cleansing, abundant, and it produces fruit.

secures.

Discussion - How are the works of the Holy Spirit, shown in each of these emblems, important to the Christian?

Some offenses against the Spirit are committed by unbelievers, and others are committed by the believer. These may overlap in some cases. The important fact is that sinning against the Spirit is fraught with terrible consequences.

Conclusion - Resisting has to do with the regenerating work of the Spirit. Grieving has to do with the indwelling Spirit. Quenching has to do with the enduement of the Spirit for service.

Man was made in the image and likeness of God - Gen. 1:26 and 9:6. Image means the shadow or outline of a figure. Likeness denotes the resemblance of that shadow to the figure.

1. The image of God does not denote physical likeness, for God is spirit.

2. The original man was intelligent. He gave names to animals (Gen. 2:19,20). He had the power of speech, of reasoning and thought.

Discussion - How was life different for men before the fall from life today?

The story of the fall of man is taught by other religions, as well as by Christianity. Genesis 3 gives a full account of this awful tragedy in the history of man.

This story does not tell of the entrance of sin into the uni-verse, for Satan had already sinned and been cast out of heaven (Ezek.28:12-15 and Isa. 14:9-14). The story tells how sin entered the human race and made us sinners.

1. Satan did not appear in his own person, but as a beautiful serpent.

2. He made the attack when Adam and Eve were apart -there is strength in unity.

3. He made the attack through proper appetites - the desire for food and knowledge - but they were not controlled.

1. Eve was too close to the tree - she should have fled the place of temptation.

4. She tampered with the Word of God. She added "neither shall you touch it", she subtracted "freely", and she toned down the Word of God by changing "You shall surely die" to "lest you die".

Discussion - What are the tactics of Satan in tempting people today? Have they changed greatly, or stayed largely the same?

3. They hid from the presence of God - sin separates man from God.

3. On the man: The ground cursed to bring forth thorns and thistles. His life to be one of sorrow; to make a living with perspiration. To die and return to the dust from which he came

1. All men are now sinners before God - Rom. 5:12.

2. The whole world rests under condemnation - Rom. 3:19.

3. Unregenerate men are regarded as children of the devil, not sons of God - John 8:44.

4. The whole human race has become captive to Satan - 2 Cor. 4:4.

5. The entire nature of man mentally, morally, spiritually and physically, has been affected by sin - Eph. 4:18; Rom. 7:18.

Conclusion - With the fall of man God promised a Redeemer and the plan of salvation (Gen.3:15). God fulfilled this about 4000 years later at Calvary.

Repentance is a very prominent subject in the Scriptures, being mentioned over 100 times.

1. Negative - It is not merely sorrow for sin. Many weep over sin, but immediately return to it. Judas Iscariot and Esau (Heb.12:17) showed sorrow for sin, but they did not repent.

2. Positive - It is a change of mind that leads to a change of conduct - Matt. 21:28-32.

1. Repentance was the theme of John the Baptist - Matt. 3:1,2.

2. Jesus preached repentance - Matt. 4:17.

3. He commanded His disciples to preach repentance -Mark 6:12.

4. After Pentecost the disciples preached repentance - Acts 2:38 and Acts 20:21.

5. It is God’s wish that all repent - 2 Pet. 3:9.

6. Failure to obey God will lead to eternal damnation - Luke 13:3.

1. All heaven is made glad - Luke 15:7,10.

2. It brings pardon and forgiveness of sin - Isa.55:7 and Acts 3:19.

3. The Holy Spirit is poured out upon the penitent - Acts 2:38.

Assignment - Prepare a sermon outline on Repentance,

using one of the texts listed above.

Faith is fundamental to Christian creed and conduct, for we are saved by faith - Eph.2:8. As Christ conversed with people and healed them, He looked for the characteristics of faith in each one. Do you remember these incidents?

1. The Syrophoenician woman had persevering faith - Mark 7:26.

1. Faith is belief, trust, fidelity and loyalty - Heb. 11:1. The faith that saves is a personal trust in the Lord Jesus Christ.

a. Head belief - a knowledge of the historical Christ and a general acceptance of the Bible.

b. Heart belief - faith from the heart that causes the person to act on his faith. True faith in Christ is believing to the extent of receiving Him - John 1:12 and Col. 2:6. Neither knowledge nor assent is true faith; true faith involves appropriation.

3. Rest, peace, assurance and joy come through faith - Isa.26:3; Phil.4:6; Heb.4:1-3;1 Pet.1:5.

4. We do exploits for God through faith - Heb.11:32-40; Matt.21:21; John 14:12.

Discussion - Give examples of head and heart faith that you have observed.

There is no other way of becoming a Christian but by being born from above.

1. Regeneration is not baptism. Baptism is a Church ordinance signifying that one is already a Christian.

2. It is not reformation. Reformation is a human act of turning away from some sins, while regeneration is spiritual quickening, a revolution, the supernatural act of God.

3. Regeneration is a spiritual quickening, a new birth, a new creation - 2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 2:1.

1. Everyone must be born again - there are no exceptions - John 3:3-7; Gal. 6:15.

2. The sinful condition of man demands it - John 3:6; Jer.13:23; Rom.7:18; Rom. 8:8.

1. Regeneration is a divine work - John 1:13; Tit. 3:5; John 3:5. It is altogether and absolutely the work of God.

2. There is also a human side - John 1:2 and 13 bring the two thoughts - divine and human - together in regeneration "Those who received Him...were born of God".

Conclusion - Man is regenerated by accepting the message of the gospel (1 Cor.4:15; James 1:18, 1Pet. 1:23), and by personally accepting Jesus Christ - John 1:12,13 and Gal. 3:26.

It is a change in man’s relation or standing before God. Regeneration has to do with the change of the believer’s nature, justification, with the change of his standing before God. It is more than pardon; to justify means to declare righteous.

Justification is the judicial act of God whereby those who put faith in Christ are declared righteous in His eyes, and free from guilt and sin.

1. The forgiveness of sin, and the removal of all its guilt and punishment - Micah 7:18,19; Acts 13:38; Rom. 8:1,33,34.

2. The imputation (giving) of Christ’s righteousness, and restoration to God’s favor - 2 Chron. 20:7, James 2:23; Rom. 5:17-21.

1. Negatively: Not by works of the Law - Rom. 3:20 and 28; Gal. 2:16 and 3:10.

3. By the Blood of Jesus Christ - the grace of justification - Rom. 3:24; 5:9, 2 Cor.5:21; Heb.9:22.

4. By believing in Jesus Christ, the condition of justification - Gal.2:16; Rom.3:26; Gal.3:10; Acts 13:39.

Discussion - How does justification differ from pardon?

"Adoption" means "the placing of a son". It is a legal term used by the Romans. It means the taking by one man of the son of another to be his son, so that that son has the same position and all the advantages of a son by birth. See Gal.4:5; Rom. 8:15,23; 9:4; Eph. 1:5.

Exodus 2:10 and Heb.11:24 furnish two splendid illustrations of the Scriptural sense and use of adoption.

We are objects of God’s peculiar love (John 17:23) and His fatherly care (Luke 12:27-33).

We have the family name (1 John 3:1; Eph.3:14,15), the family likeness (Rom.8:29); family love (John 13:35; 1 John 3:14); a filial spirit (Rom.8:15; Gal.4:6); and a family service (John 14:23,24; 15:8).

We receive fatherly chastisement (Heb.12:5-11); fatherly comfort (Isa.66:13; 2 Cor.1:4), and an inheritance (1 Pet.1:3-5; Rom. 8:17).

Diccussion - What are some of the differences in being a son of God and a servant of God?

Sanctification has to do with our character and conduct. Justification is what God does for us, while sanctification is what God does in us.

1. Separation from evil - 2 Chron. 29:5,15-18; 1 Thess. 4:3. Sanctification has to do with the turning away from all that is sinful and that is defiling to soul and body.

2. Dedication unto God - Lev. 27:14,16; Num. 8:17, John 10:36. Whatever is devoted exclusively to the service of God is sanctified.

Sanctification may be viewed as past, present and future; or instantaneous, progressive and complete.

1. Instantaneous - 1 Cor. 6:11; Heb. 10:10,14. By a simple act of faith in Christ the believer is put at once into a state of sanctification.

2. Progressive - 2 Pet. 3:18; 2 Cor. 3:18; 1 Thess. 3:12. We are being transformed from one degree of character, or glory, to another.

3. Complete and final sanctification - 1 Thess. 5:23; 1 Thess. 3:13.

The means are both divine and human: both God and man cooperating towards the desired end.

- Faith in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ - 1 Cor.1:30. Herein lies the secret of a holy life - momentary appropriation of Jesus Christ in all the riches of His grace for every need as it arises.

- The study of the Scriptures and obedience to them - John 17:17; Eph. 5:26; John 15:3.

Discussion - Discuss the time elements in sanctification, that is, when does each phase occur?

The Christian life cannot be sustained without prayer; it is the Christian’s vital breath.

1. The neglect of prayer is grievous to the Lord - Isa. 43:21,22; Isa. 64:6,7.

2. Many evils come because of the lack of prayer -Zeph. 1:4-6; Dan. 9:13,14.

4. To continue in prayer is a positive command - Col.4:2; I Thess. 5:17.

5. Prayer is God’s method for us to receive His gifts - Dan. 9:3; Matt. 7:17-11, 9:24-29; Luke 11:13.

6. The Apostles regarded prayer as their most important activity - Acts 6:4; Rom.1:9.

Prayer should consist of at least four parts - remember the word ACTS.

4. Supplication - intercession, requests, petitions, desires - 1 Tim. 2:1.

4. Some Prayer Promises - Mark 11:24; John 15:7; 1 John 5:14,15; Eph. 3:12,20; Phil. 4:19; Phil. 4:6; Matt. 7:7,8; Luke 11:9-13; Heb. 4:16.

Discussion - What are some recent answers to prayer you have received? What are you praying for now?

The supreme business of God in this age is the gathering of the Church.

1. The Christian Church is a New Testament institution beginning with Pentecost and ending probably with the Rapture, the Second Coming of Christ.

2. The word "Church" comes from the Greek word "Ecclesia" meaning "to call out from". Christians are called out from the world system to be "in Christ" - 1 Cor. 1:2.

3. The word Church can refer to a local group of believers - Col.4:15.

4. It can also mean the Church universal - 1 Cor. 15:9. This term includes all Christians everywhere.

5. The visible Church consists of those whose names are on local church rolls, whether saved or not. The invisible Church is made up of those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life - Rev. 21:27.

6. The Church militant refers to the true Church on earth. The Church triumphant refers to the section of the Church already in heaven.

1. The Church was founded by Jesus Christ on Peter’s confession (Matt.16:16-18) that Jesus was - and is - the Son of God, the Messiah. Our Saviour did not build the church on Peter, but on the truth declared in Peter’s words.

2. Historically, the Church was founded at Pentecost, Acts 2, when the Spirit descended. See Acts 2:47, Acts 1:13; 5:12; 2:46; 12:12.

Discussion - What are several different meanings of the word "church"?

2. Faith in Jesus Christ as Saviour, Lord and Son of God - Matt. 16:16-18.

2. To evangelize the world with the gospel - Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 16:15.

3. To teach and instruct Christians - Eph. 4:11-15; 1 Thess. 5:11; 1 Cor. 12:1-31.

4. To witness constantly - Acts 1:8.

Discussion - What mistakes are commonly made about church membership?

1. Body - Christ is the Head and we are members of His body - Col. 1:18; Eph. 1:22,23; Col. 2:19.

2. A temple, building or dwelling place for God’s Spirit - Eph. 2:20,21. Christ is the chief cornerstone, and we are different parts of the building.

3. Bride of Christ - 2 Cor. 11:2. Christ is the bridegroom - John 3:29. The wedding will take place in Rev. 19:1.

1. Baptism - Matt. 28:19,20; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38-41; Acts 8:36-40; Acts 10:47,48

2. The Lord’s Supper - Acts 2:42-46; Acts 20:7; 1Cor. 11:20-34.

Discussion - Explain the meaning of being a church member, as pictured in the symbols of the Church listed above.

1. The Bible is a library of 66 books; the Old Testament contains 39, the New Testament 27.

2. It was written by 36 to 40 authors of different types of people in different parts of the world, over a period of 1600 years.

3. The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew, with parts of Daniel and Ezra in Aramaic. The New Testament was written in Greek.

4. The Bible is the oldest book in existence. It required 16 centuries to write it; the first writer died 1450 years before the last writer was born.

1. The word in Greek is "theopneustos", God breathed; theo = God; pneustos = breathed - 2 Tim. 3:16.

2. Holy men of God, overshadowed by the Holy Spirit, wrote at His command and were kept from all error.

Discussion - Which of the unique qualities of the Bible impresses you most?

1. The wonder of its formation; one book written in one place in one language, another book written in another country centuries later in another language.

2. The wonder of its unification; it is a library of 66 books, yet only one book, for it has only one author, the Holy Spirit. There are no contradictions.

5. The wonder of its interest; it is the only book that is read by all ages of mankind - by sages and children, in all nations.

6. The wonder of its language; written largely by uneducated men, it is considered a literary masterpiece.

7. The wonder of its preservation. Time and again kings and governments have sought to burn and abolish it. Yet God has preserved it for us today and it is found in almost every home.

2. A hammer that breaks the resistance of the hearer - Jer. 23:29.

3. A seed, a living Word that gives birth to the hearer - 1 Pet. 1:23.

4. A mirror, revealing the individual to himself - James 1:23,25.

5. A fire, consuming the dross in the hearer - Jer. 20:9 and 23:29.

6. A lamp, guiding the believer day by day - Psa.119:105.

7. Food, feeding the soul - 1 Pet.2:2; 1 Cor.3:2; Rom.10:17.

Assignment - Prepare an object lesson, using one of the symbols of the Word of God.

1. Conviction of sin comes through preaching the Word of God - Acts 2:14:37. In Peter’s Pentecost sermon nine out of 23 verses are quotations from the Old Testament.

3. Cleansing comes from the Word - 2 Cor. 7:1. The promises are the words of God.

5. Comfort comes from the Word - 1 Thess. 4:18. (These words are the words recorded in the Bible).

Conclusion - Next to Christ and the Holy Spirit, the Bible is God’s third greatest gift to the world.

1. The word "angel" first occurs in Gen. 16:7 when the angel of the Lord ministered to Hagar after Sarah mistreated her.

2. There are many other references to angels in the Old Testament - Psa. 104:4; Dan. 10:12,13; 2 Sam. 14:20; Psa. 103:20; 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Sam. 24:15,16.

3. Jesus believed in angels - Matt. 18:10; Mark 13:32 and 8:38; Matt. 13:41 and 26:53.

4. Paul and other Apostles believed in them - 2 Thess. 1:17; Col. 2:18; John 1:51; Rev. 12:7;22:9; 1 Pet. 3:22; 2 Pet. 2:11; Jude 9.

1. They are created beings, not the spirits of the departed - Col. 1:16.

2. They are spirits - Psa. 104:4, but sometimes they appeared in visible form - Gen. 19; Judges 2:1; 6:11-22; Matt. 1:20; John 20:12.

3. They are strong - Psa. 103:20; 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Sam. 24:15,16.

Originally all angels were created good, but some fell - 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6. We do not know the cause of their fall, perhaps pride and disobedience, the sins that caused Satan’s downfall - Ezek. 28.

Discussion - Study the verses that tell of Satan's fall and discuss the reasons for it.

There is no hope for their redemption - Jude 6:2; 2 Pet. 2:4; Matt. 25:41. Their final doom will be in the eternal fire.

1. In heaven - to honor, worship and serve the Lord God - Rev. 5:11-12, 8:3,4.

2. On earth - running errands for the Lord; showing Hagar a fountain; appearing before Joshua with a drawn sword; releasing chains from Peter; opening prison doors, feeding, strengthening and defending God’s people, etc.

3. To exercise God’s judgments and purposes - Num. 22:22; Acts 12:23; Matt. 13:41.

5. To assist, protect and strengthen saints; Elijah in 1 Kings 19; Daniel in the lions’ den - Dan. 6:22; Jesus in Gethsemane - Matt. 4:11.

6. They will accompany our Lord when He returns - Matt. 25:31 and 1 Thess. 1:7,8.

7. They take the Lord’s children to heaven at death - Luke 16:22.

Discussion - Have you experienced the help of angels in your life?

1. Satan is described in Ezek. 28:12-19. He was perfect in beauty, perhaps the chiefest angel. Then sin and iniquity entered into him because of his pride and he was cast out of heaven.

2. He is also described in Isa. 14:12-17. He was called Lucifer, son of the morning. His pride led him to want to be like the Most High God, so he was cast out.

3. Satan is a real person, possessing life, intelligence, will power and feelings.

1. He is a thief, stealing the Word of God from hearts - Matt. 13:19.

2. He is subtle - 2 Cor. 11:3.

3. He is a murderer - John 8:44.

4. He is a liar - John 8:44.

5. He is a deceiver - Rev. 12:9.

Discussion - Do you feel that Satan is becoming more active in the world in these days? Why is he, in your opinion?

8. King of the bottomless pit, whose Hebrew name is Abaddon -Rev. 9:11.

1. As far as the Christian is concerned, he is a conquered enemy - John 12:31; 16:9,10; 1 John 3:8; Col. 2:15.

3. He will be cast alive into the lake of fire, there to be tormented forever and ever - Matt. 25:41; Rev. 20:10.

Conclusion - Satan is mighty, but God is Almighty. Satan was forever defeated at Calvary. Let us constantly claim victory over him through the Blood of Calvary - Rev. 12:11.

The Second Coming of Christ is said to be mentioned 318 times in the 260 chapters of the New Testament, the subject of one in every 25 verses. One out of every 30 verses in the Bible mentions this doctrine; to every one mention of the Lord’s first coming, the second coming is mentioned eight times.

1. Secretly at the Rapture; 1 Thess. 5:2; Matt. 24:44; Matt.24:50.

2. At the Revelation, we will descend with Him to the earth - Zech.14:4.

2 Tim.3:17 lists 23 signs of His coming, most of which are very evident today. Matt. 24:5-7 and 12-38 lists ten signs.

We ought to plan and work as if Jesus were not coming for another century, but live a holy and pure life as if He were coming today (1 Thess. 3:12,13).

The last prayer of the Bible is "Even so come, Lord Jesus" (Rev. 22:20)

Discussion - In the Scriptures listed under "Signs of His Coming", what conditions are present in these days?

1. In the Old Testament - Job 19:25-27; Psa. 16:9; 17:15; Dan. 12:1-3. Actual resurrections are recorded in 1 Kings 17; 2 Kings 4:32-35 and 13:21.

2. In the New Testament - in the teaching of Jesus - John 5:28,29; 6:39,40,44,54; Luke 14:13,14; 20:35,36 - and of the Apostles - Acts 24:15; 1 Cor. 15; 1 Thess. 4:14-16; Phil. 3:11; Rev. 20:4-6,13.

- Not flesh and blood - vs. 50,51; also Heb. 2:14; 2 Cor. 5:1-6; Luke 24:39 - "flesh and bones" - not pure spirit, a real body.

- Glorious - vs.43, also the Transfiguration (Matt.17); Rev.1:13-17.

- Powerful - vs. 43 - not tired, weak.

- A spiritual body - vs. 44. The spirit will be the life of the body.

1. Of the righteous - 1 Cor.15:23 and 1 Thess.4:14-17. The resurrection of the believer is connected with the coming of Christ.

2. Of the wicked - John 5:28,29; Dan.12:2; Rev.20:5; Rev.20:12. The resurrection of the wicked is always connected with the judgment, and that takes place at the close of the Day of the Lord. Rev.20:4-6 indicates that at least a thousand years elapse between the resurrection of the righteous and the wicked.

Conclusion - How will our resurrection bodies be different from the bodies we have today?

A day of judgment is appointed for the world, in which the wicked are judged and the righteous rewarded - Acts 17:31; Heb. 9:27. The Judge is Christ - the Man of the Cross is the Man of the Throne - John 5:22,23,27; 2 Tim. 4:1; 2 Cor. 5:10; Acts 10:42; 17:31.

As there is more than one resurrection, so there is more than one judgment. There was the judgment by flood in the days of Noah and of the confusion of languages at the Tower of Babel.

1. Judgment at the Cross - Satan’s power over the believer was broken and the sins of the believer were judged and put away - John 5:24; 1 Pet. 2:24.

2. The believers’ self-judgment - 1 Cor. 11:31,32. This is continual and constant.

3. The judgment of believers at the Bema, the "judgment seat of Christ" - 2 Cor. 5:10. At the Second Coming of Christ the believer will be judged for his works. Rewards will be given for the works that remain after the test by fire - 1 Cor.3:13.

4. The judgment of the Jews - during the Great Tribulation - Ezek. 20:34-38; Jer. 33:7; Luke 23:18; Acts 7:51.

5. The judgment of the Gentile nations - Matt. 25:32; at the Second Coming of Christ in the Valley of Jehoshaphet - Joel 3:2; Matt. 25:41 and 34.

6. Judgment of the fallen angels - 1 Cor. 6:3; Jude 6; 2 Pet. 2:4.

7. The Judgment of the wicked dead, those who have never been born again, who did not rise at the first resurrection or had not been raptured - Rev. 20:12. It will take place at the Great White Throne - Rev. 20:11, after the thousand-year millennial period - Rev. 20:5. The ungodly will be cast into the lake of fire - Rev. 20:15.

Discussion - What are the judgments that concern you?

There are 162 texts in the New Testament alone which speak of the doom that awaits the impenitent, 70 of which were uttered by Jesus Himself.

1. It was originally prepared for the devil and his wicked angels - Matt. 25:41. But men who reject heaven through the Saviour must accompany Satan there.

4. A place of fire - Matt.13:42,50; Rev. 20:15; Rev. 14:10; Matt. 3:12; Isa. 33:14.

6. In Luke 16 man had the ability to recognize others - vs.23; to pray, though the prayer was denied - vs.27, and he desired water and a messenger to warn his brothers not to come - vs.24-27.

Conclusion - The facts about eternal punishment should spur us on to greater efforts to win the lost!

Death to the believer is just falling asleep in Jesus Christ - 1 Thess. 4:14, then the person suddenly awakes in the Lord’s presence - Phil. 1:23.

Heb. 12:1.

2. Crown of rejoicing - 1 Thess. 2:19 - the crown for soul winners.

3. Crown of righteousness - 2 Tim. 4:8 - for those who love His appearing. Everyone ought to win this crown.

4. Crown of life - James 1:12 - for faithful ones, even unto death. Rev. 2:10 - the Martyr’s crown.

5. Crown of glory - 1 Pet. 5:4, for under-shepherds, pastors, missionaries, teachers.

1. Home of the Lord God - Matt. 6:9. 2 Cor. 12:2 - First heaven area is where birds fly. Second is where astronauts go. Third is the home of God.

5. A place without death, tears, sorrow, crying or pain - Rev. 21:4. Without night or darkness - Rev. 22:3-5. Without hunger, thirst or excessive heat - Rev. 7:16.

6. A place with new created things - the river of life, the tree of life, new service, new relationships, new light - Rev. 22:4.

Our goal must be to arrive there, and to be accompanied by a host of others redeemed because of our labors for Him!

The dictionary defines homiletics as the art of preaching, and this course is concerned with assisting the development of that art in each of the students. But it should be understood that preaching is far more than simply standing in front of a group of people and speaking effectively. It is really - or it should be - communicating the personal message of God to human hearts. Paul writes very forcefully about that truth: "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness, but unto us who are saved it is the power of God" (1 Cor. 1:18). This course asks you to work diligently to perfect the art of preaching, so that God's power may be released for the salvation and edification of many.

In the limited pages that we have we shall not be able to touch upon the mechanics of delivery - use of the voice and gestures, for example - for that can be observed and commented upon by the teacher in class time when sermons are being delivered. The lessons will instruct about the content of sermons and give examples of the outstanding types.

It should be noted that the material for the other portable school courses is divided into lessons for each day’s classes, but much of the homiletics course has been arranged a bit more loosely into weekly units. This will allow for flexibility in the class for the practical work of preparing and presenting sermons.

This material comes largely from the fine book, How to Prepare Sermons, by William Evans, published by Moody Press.

WEEK ONE, Day 1: WHAT IS PREACHING?

Preaching is the proclamation of the Good News of salvation through man to men. Its two elements are a man and a message - personality and truth.

The preacher is separated by God for the specific work of preaching the gospel. He deals with God in behalf of men; he deals with men in behalf of God. He must be a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith. The effect of such a life and such preaching is that many will be added to the Lord (Acts 11:24).

The sermon is a part of the preacher; it must be the expression of his very life and experience. The experience of the truth must be in the preacher himself before he can proclaim it with convicting force in and through the sermon.

Discussion - What are the essential elements in the preparation of an effective preacher’s life? What are some personality traits which may defeat his ministry?

Day 2: TEXT OF THE SERMON

1. It awakens the interest of the audience. "What will he say about that?"

2. It gains the confidence of the audience. "This is the Word of God!"

3. It gives the preacher authority and boldness. "Thus saith the Lord" gives the authority of heaven.

2. He should consider the cycle of truth he has preached. Have some doctrines of truth been omitted? It is good, at the beginning of the year, to draw up a list of subjects to preach during the year.

3. He should consider his own ability to present the subject. Some themes will be too difficult for the young preacher to handle.

4. The guidance of the Holy Spirit is paramount. The man who is living continually under the influence and power of the Holy Spirit will scarcely ever be at a loss for something to preach about.

Assignment - Make a list of 10 texts which you will preach on in the coming months.

The wise choice and proper wording of the theme is extremely important. Consider these suggestions:

2. The theme should be one that the people can understand. It must not be over the people’s head.

3. The theme should not be trivial - it must have weight and dignity.

4. The preacher should have a definite aim in treating his theme. Preaching for conversions and decisions is essential.

5. The theme should be suitable to time, place and occasion. At Easter he should preach on the resurrection of Christ, etc.

Discussion - What are some themes that are not worth treating in a Sunday sermon? What are some that are?

Reading good books will enrich a preacher’s thoughts. Too, he needs to be alert to daily events. Think about them, pray about them and relate them to Scripture. Christ was always observant, and His sermons abound with illustrations taken from things He had seen and heard.

The preacher should carry a notebook, so he can jot down the things he sees and hears that impress him, and then he should think about them.

Discussion - What are some local events of the past month that suggest useful sermon thoughts? Write the ideas and their application to be listed in your notebook.

A proper arrangement of sermon material is extremely important. The preacher ought to arrange his material so it will all converge in the main purpose of the sermon.

1. To the preacher - Whatever is clearly and logically arranged is easy to memorize.

2. To the sermon - The effectiveness of a sermon depends greatly on a clear and logical arrangement.

3. To the audience - Whatever makes it easy for the congregation to remember and carry away the Bible teaching is worth the toil of good preparation. Good arrangement on the part of the preacher is absolutely necessary for good following on the part of the audience.

Discussion - What are some examples of poor arrangement in sermons, and why?

WEEK TWO, Day 1: GOOD SERMON ARRANGEMENT

Qualities of a good sermon arrangement:

1. One theme - The preacher should have only one theme in his sermon and concentrate all his argument, proof, testimony and illustrations toward enforcing that single theme.

2. A logical connection between the divisions of the sermon. The argument should first be made to the intellect, then an appeal to the emotions, and finally to the will.

3. Every sermon needs an outline, just as a man’s body needs a skeleton. Generally speaking, the plan of a sermon should be easy to follow. Outlines that are striking are easily remembered. Some preachers, for this reason, make their outlines so each general heading begins with the same word or sound. Others use the law of opposites and contrasts. One sermon could have these headings:

Theme - The Transfiguration

1. Place 3. Persons

2. Purpose 4. Power

Another sermon had these headings:

1. Admit 3. Submit

2. Commit 4. Transmit

Assignment: Prepare an outline using the same letter for each main point.

Every good sermon or message divides itself into three parts: the introduction, the body or argument, and the conclusion.

An introduction to a sermon is like spices to a sauce - it gives flavor to the meat of the sermon. There are exceptions - brevity of time or an informal talk - but as a general rule, it is best to introduce the subject.

The purpose of an introduction:

1. To awaken interest in the theme. It is the business of the speaker to present his matter so interestingly that the audience cannot help but listen and be interested.

Sources of an introduction:

1. General familiarity with the text or theme. To introduce Psa. 23:4-6, the preacher might give this introduction: "How often this text has lighted up death beds and comforted the bereaved."

3. Geography of the Bible.

4. Customs and antiquities of the Bible.

Assignment - Prepare an introduction to an Easter sermon.

1. Not too loud, sensational or emotional. It is too soon to make an appeal to the emotions. It is best to begin by speaking slowly and in a low tone of voice, warming up to the subject gradually, then working up to a climax.

3. Carefully prepared. It is good to write it out fully. First impressions are lasting, therefore one must carefully prepare the introduction.

Assignment - Write a good introduction to a sermon on Rom. 1:16,17. Share it with the class.

The sermon may have as many divisions as the topic calls for and can be handled. It may have perhaps three, perhaps even seven. The divisions should be natural and logical in their order and transition from one to another. Sometimes they are announced, but not always.

1. What? - The first division should deal with a statement and definition of the subject. There should be no misunderstanding of the subject after this division. It is an address to the intellect, not to the emotions or the will.

2. Why? - This division should set forth the necessity, reason or proof of the subject. It asks: Why is it true? Why should I believe it or accept it? How may it be proven? Is it reasonable?

3. How? This sets forth the manner and method by which the theme of the sermon may be brought about, or the conditions under which it may be received or fulfilled. There are three thoughts usually present in the treatment of this division: God’s part, man’s part, and the question of means.

4. What then? - This leads to application, and is perhaps the most important part. It makes it a personal matter. We must persuade men to decide for Christ, to live a holy life before Him.

Assignment - Prepare an outline for the body of a sermon on Rom. 1:16,17.

The last five minutes are the most important part of the sermon - what a mistake to neglect thorough preparation of it! Sometimes an effective conclusion is a recapitulation of the divisions and leading thoughts - a grand resume in a few striking, well-chosen, soul-moving sentences, or a pointed illustration. Sometimes a poem or the verse of a well-known hymn is used. Or the sermon may be finished by the use of one striking sentence. The conclusion should be no longer than the introduction, perhaps from three to five minutes.

Assignment - Prepare a stirring conclusion to your sermon on Rom. 1:16, 17.

Jesus’ discourses abound in anecdotes, illustrations and similes. He set forth by His example the value of illustrations in preaching more than anyone else. The use of illustrations is a great help to the audience to enable them to carry home the truth of the sermon.

The purpose of illustrations:

1. They throw light on the subject. They are like windows in a house - they let light in.

The sources of illustrations:

1. One should be on the lookout everywhere. Christ used the lilies, the raven, salt, a candle, a bushel, a long-faced hypocrite, gnats, moths, large gates and small gates, a needle’s eye, yeast in bread, a mustard seed, a fishing net, debtors and creditors, etc.

2. Other sources include: newspapers, history, animals, vegetables, children, and many objects.

Discussion - What are some good illustrations for the truth in John 3 that we must be "born again".

The life of a Bible character is presented in this type of sermon. Example:

1. To leave country and kindred - Gen. 12:1

2. Separation from Lot - Gen. 13:9

3. Cast out Hagar and Ishmael - Gen. 21:10

4. Offering of Isaac - Gen. 22

In these sermons an event of Scripture is portrayed. Example of a narrative sermon outline:

Theme: God cares for His children

Introduction: Story of the young men in a land of captivity

Text: Daniel 6:19-23

Outline:

1. Diabolical Plot, Daniel 6, vss. 1-9

2. Daily Practice, vs. 10

3. Divine Provision, vss. 21-24

Conclusion: Daniel could face danger with perfect confidence, because he was on intimate terms with his God. Are you walking close enough to Him that you can face whatever life may have in store for you?

The textual sermon occupies itself chiefly with one certain thought contained in a verse or short segment of verses. The verse must be carefully analyzed. Example of a textual sermon:

Introduction: What the word consecration means: to devote, separate, dedicate or set apart for the glory of God. Consecration is abdicating the rulership of our lives in favor of King Jesus. Who is boss in your life? 1. Who can be consecrated? "I beseech you, therefore, brethren." Those cleansed by the blood of Christ, members of God’s family. Not the great, mighty or talented, but this is open to every believer. 2. The appeal to consecration - "by the mercies of God." We are not commanded by force or authority, but by His mercies. Not prompted by fear, but by love and mercies.

Some of God’s mercies: salvation,sanctification, indwelling of the Holy Spirit, daily help, health, heaven after death, friends, church. 3. The act of consecration - "Present your bodies."

a. It is voluntary-giving a present. We are not forced to do it.

b. It is personal - your bodies. Our lives, everything we have. c. It is sacrificial - "a living sacrifice" . It is putting our lives on the altar, as Abraham presented Isaac. 4. The argument for consecration - "reasonable service". If we have been truly redeemed, then it is only reasonable that we give Him our puny service. 5. What am I to consecrate? - "your bodies". Our bodies are not our own. They have been redeemed by Christ with His blood. a. Our physical strength - praise God for health and use it for Him. b. Our feet to run errands of mercy - to take the gospel to someone.

c. Our hands to do works of kindness and lift the fallen.

d. Our eyes to seek out the needy and the perishing.

e. Our ears to hear the cry of the distressed and seek them for Him.

f. Our heart, symbol of the inner man, the real self. This is what He wants more than anything else. - 2 Cor. 8:5.

Conclusion - Consecration is a process. It is daily, a moment- by-moment yielding to the Master. Even now, consecrate your all to the Saviour.

Caution: Never take it back. A gift is given to be reclaimed no more.

WEEK SIX: TOPICAL SERMONS

A topic, or subject, is the focus of this type of sermon. A Bible concordance is very helpful in preparing it, for verses may be used from many parts of the Word. An example of a Topical Sermon follows:

Text: "Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, `If a man is thirsty, let him come to me and drink" (John 7:37).

Introduction: Have you ever been deprived of water? Do you know what it’s like to want water more than anything else? (Continue the thought of importance of water.)

I. Water of life - its character

1. Living (John 4:10)

III. The way to obtain it

2. Take (Rev. 22:17)

Conclusion: For the student to prepare.

The Expository Sermon differs from the types already studied in that it is occupied more fully with the exposition of the Scripture itself, while the textual and topical sermons usually explore only one thought or topic suggested by the text. It is usually thought that expository preaching is superior to other types.

These are some of the advantages of expository preaching:

1. It produces Biblical preachers and hearers. The preacher and his audience will be kept Biblical.

2. It conforms to the Biblical idea of preaching. This was Jesus’ method (Luke 4), Stephen’s (Acts 7 and 8), Paul’s (Acts 28), and Peter’s (Acts 2 and 3).

3. It is wider in scope. It gives a greater opportunity for the practical application of truth to the lives of the hearers.

There are possibly some disadvantages:

2. The preacher can become lazy. There is the danger of reading verse after verse of a chosen text and passing a few comments on them, rather than forcefully proclaiming the truth of the passage.

3. The text may be too long, confusing the audience.

4. Sometimes this preaching is too confining, keeping the preacher from dealing with current topics. The expository sermon should have one central theme, so that there will be unity of thought. Texts should be chosen from different parts of the Bible to avoid the monotony mentioned above, and the preaching should not be all theory, but very practical.

Theme: The Death of Jesus Christ

Text: Rom. 5:6-11: "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly," etc.

b. He could have avoided death.

c. The claims associated with His death.

II. The people for whom Christ died.

III. The purpose of Christ’s death

Conclusion: Do we recognize the significance of that cross? Is it nothing to us? How we should love Him because of that death!

INTRODUCTION: - These lessons may be the most important of all the Portable School courses, for "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matt. 12:34). Only a holy life can produce spiritual fruit, and the Christian worker must be on constant guard against anything that might steal his inner victory and destroy his testimony.

Much of this material comes from the book 100 Bible Lessons, by Douglas Alban, and from Preachers and People, by Rev. R. Stanley, and The Ideal Woman, by Dr. Lilian Stanley.

1. Fear the Lord

2. The Spirit-Filled Life

3. Resist the Devil

4. Finding the Lord’s Will

5. The Quiet Time

6. Separation

7. Personal Life

8. Inner Motives

9. Qualifications of a Leader

10. Adultery

11. Leadership in the Home

12. Only the Truth

13. Finances

14. Disciplined Study

15. Keep Your Body Fit

16. Laziness

17. Praise

18. When Temptations Come

19. Imitators

20. Victory is Certain

There are wrong and right kinds of fear. "Fear not" is a precious message of Scripture, used about 50 times, and with its variations it is used 366 times. Remember the Lord’s words, "It is I, be not afraid"? But the fear of the Lord is something we must have. See these verses: Job 28:28; Psalms 19:9; 2 Samuel 23:3; Deuteronomy 6:13.

2. Man - see Saul’s mistake in 1 Samuel 15:24. Notice Proverbs 29:25.

3. Earthly calamities, for they signify the near return of our Saviour - Luke 21:25-28.

5. We are not to fear "fear", for the believer casts his fears on the Lord - I Peter 5:7. Only one fear remains, and that is the holy fear of the Lord God.

Discussion: Have the class discuss ways to conquer the weakness of a fearful heart. Then discuss the wisdom of fearing the Lord.

Lesson 2. THE SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE - Ephesians 5:18.

Every believer possesses the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:16), but the Spirit may reside and not preside in his life. He may be a resident, but not the president. As we yield the control of our lives He fills us more and more with Himself (Luke 11:13). The infilling is received when the believer consciously recognizes the Holy Spirit as being in full control of his life, completely governing every detail.

The original Greek is in the imperative progressive - keep on being filled. The filling must be constant and continuous. The Apostle Peter was filled with the Spirit in Acts 2:4, again in Acts 4:8, and again in 4:31. Each day needs its new fullness.

Conclusion: We are not reservoirs, but channels. We must overflow. Blessings must pour out. Notice the Bible pictures of the working of the Holy Spirit:

Discussion: Perhaps some of the class have recognized that they are not experiencing the filling of the Spirit. A time of confession and prayer may be a means of great blessing.

Lesson 3. RESISTING THE DEVIL - I Peter 5:8,9.

We should never forget that Satan attacks every true child of God. This lesson will give some practical ways to ward off those attacks.

1. Ways in which Satan attacks Christians - 2 Corinthians 2:11.

5. Criticism discourages us - we forget that we must be prepared to receive it.

6. Use your will power by saying "I will not sin. I resolve by the power of the indwelling Christ to overcome and be victor over sin."

8. Plead the blood of Christ to cover you - "and they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb" - (Rev. 12:11 ).

Discussion: - What experiences have you had of Satanic attack? What was the most effective means of defeating it?

Lesson 4. HOW TO FIND THE LORD’S WILL

The problem that faces every Christian is how to ascertain the will of God. There is a divine blueprint for each one of God’s people, suited to our personalities, talents, needs and environment - Ephesians 2:10.

He wants us to inquire about His plan - Psalms 143:8, and to be much in prayer for daily details.

And His plan is always good, acceptable, perfect for each particular believer - Romans 12:2.

1. God often guides through verses of Scripture. Saturate yourself with the Word of God. God’s will is never contrary to the Bible.

2. An inner conviction that is given by the Spirit of God - Romans 8:16; Acts 13:2; John 16:13.

3. Through circumstances. God closes one door and opens another. Nothing happens to the child of God by accident.

4. Sometimes, by putting out a fleece, Judges 6:37-39, but care must be taken to not arrange the circumstances.

3. George Mueller’s formula for finding guidance:

1. Surrender your own will. Have no definite choice in the matter. Be absolutely neutral.

Discussion: Have you had definite experiences of God’s guidance? How did you determine His leading?

The quiet time is the secret of a Christian’s victorious living. Without it, spiritual defeat is certain.

1. Abraham’s excellent example for the morning quiet time:

4. He stood before the Lord, waiting for the Lord to speak to him.

2. Aim at a systematic plan, probably half time reading and half time praying.

3. Don’t be rigid. Continue praying, if the Spirit leads. If the Word shines with new light, read on and be filled.

4. A suggested order: a brief prayer, Bible reading, and then prayer. Use the Word as a basis for prayer and petition.

Lesson 6. SEPARATION - 1 John 2:15

"Love not the world . . ." What does the word "world" mean here? The next verse explains it: it means this present world system which is controlled by Satan.

1. Some things we know are wrong:

1. Marriage between a believer and an unbeliever is forbidden - 2 Corinthians 6:14-17; Amos 3:3.

2. All unrighteousness and all works of darkness - 2 Corinthians 6:14. This may include business partnership also.

3. Belial, the old devil, and infidels - 2 Corinthians 6:15.

6. All known forms of sin and immorality (drinking, etc.) - 1 Peter 1:16.

2. Basic rules to follow:

1. I must separate from anything that might overthrow my faith in God.

2. I must separate from anything that would destroy my testimony.

3. I must separate from anything that would debase my morals and lead me to sin.

4. If my action causes my brother to stumble, then I must not do it - 1 Corinthians 8:13.

5. I must separate from anything that harms my body - physically, mentally or emotionally.

6. Is it pleasing to Jesus Christ? If He would not do it, then I must not - 1 Peter 2:21.

Discussion: Have you had any struggles in separating from sinful practices? Are there still areas of conflict? How can you resolve them?

The personal life of the shepherd is of prime importance, for people listen to the sermons of Sunday and watch to see how they are fulfilled through the week.

Again and again in his letters to the young preacher Timothy, the aged Apostle Paul insists on purity and piety of life. If the preacher is not living up to his preaching, the people will soon find it out.

1. The shepherd must be a man of piety - a pious, holy man who radiates the Lord Jesus Christ.

2. He must be exemplary in his relationship with his wife and his family. He must be an example in this to the flock.

3. He must be a man of prayer. His people expect him to spend much time in prayer daily - even hours. He needs this for maintaining his own holiness. Satan will send many temptations to the man of God.

He must remain before the Lord until all dross is removed - Isaiah 52:11.

He must pray for the flock - 1 Samuel 12:33; Colossians 1:9. His prayers for his people should be by name, person by person, if at all possible.

4. He must be a man with a passion for the lost and dying - Acts 20:31.

Discussion: Name some Christian leaders who have been examples to you. What were their outstanding qualities?

The Lord’s servant must work with a correct motive - to glorify the name of the Lord. Paul’s motive was not money or fame, but men - their salvation and grounding in the faith.

He was willing to forego eating and drinking if men would only believe - 1 Corinthians 9:4.

He refused a salary at Corinth to avoid suspicion and win more souls. He adapted himself to various classes of men - 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. He was willing to forbear marriage, home and children if more people would be saved.

The wonderful message, the shortness of time, the nearness of death and the coming of Christ were his motives to do all for His glory - Colossians 3:17; 1 Corinthians 10:31.

Discussion: What were the personal sacrifices Paul made for the sake of the ministry? Do you feel they were important?

1. He must be blameless, a man of honest reputation, good character and standing - Titus 1:6.

2. He must be the husband of one wife, of a single marriage - Titus 1:6.

3. He must be the father of faithful children, obedient and under control - Titus 1:6. This is the test. If one rules his household well, then he can govern the church.

4. He must not be self-willed; he is not a dictator - Titus 1:7.

5. Not soon angry - Titus 1:7. Temper and anger have no place here.

6. He is not given to wine - Titus 1:7.

7. He is not violent - Titus 1:7.

8. He is not greedy for money - Titus 1:7. This is important, lest church funds be a snare to him.

9. A lover of hospitality, Titus 1:8. He shows love to fellow believers and strangers.

10. He is a lover of all that is good, clean and wholesome - Titus 1:8.

Discussion: Consider each of these qualities and show why it is important in a church leader. Are there other traits that you would add to the list?

The devil will do all within his power to bring about the defeat of a servant of God, and nothing pleases him more than to cause a man who is at the height of his ministry to fall - he falls farther and harder, and more often than not, he brings with him others who have been his followers in their walk with the Lord. The sad truth is that many a spiritual leader has fallen from a mountain peak of spiritual victory and privilege to a black valley of defeat because he has been careless in his relationship with women. His own ministry has been ruined, his character has been irreparably blotched, and the church of Jesus Christ has been subjected to ridicule.

The servant of God must be constantly on guard against temptation. He must nip every temptation in the bud. He should be accompanied by his wife or an elder of the church when he counsels or prays with a woman. He must avoid all appearance of moral misconduct.

You must pray much that God will protect you against Satan’s darts, but you must also be alert to every danger signal. We must watch as well as pray.

Discussion: Consider Samson and David, and show how their improper relationship with women brought great sorrow.

Lesson 11. LEADERSHIP IN THE HOME

Piety in the pulpit must be accompanied by piety in the home. Eli was punished because he couldn’t control his wicked sons, while God first recognized Abraham’s success in the home, and then granted him greater responsibilities.

1. The Christian leader must be a model husband. His devotion to his wife will discourage women from putting temptation in his path. His treatment of her as a partner will demonstrate the respect for women that is the standard of the church.

2. His children should show that they are the product of a loving and orderly home - I Timothy 3:12. They should be obedient and under control. It is difficult for strangers to respect a man whose children do not show him respect.

3. The leader’s home should be open to fellow believers and to strangers - Titus 1:8. It should have the aura of godliness so that visitors will easily recognize that Christ is the head of that home.

Discussion: What will influence the children of a Christian leader to be examples to the other young people of the church? When should their training begin?

There are no "little white lies" for the Christian worker. He must be a man who can be trusted. The Lord has strong statements about deceit - see Psalms 101:7.

1. Exaggeration - Evangelists often commit the sin of exaggeration. They often report great crowds in attendance and many, many decisions when the work is actually small. This is done to bring glory to the evangelist, not to God.

2. Unkept promises - If a promise is made, it must be kept. Otherwise the promise becomes a lie, and God has no blessings for liars.

Discussion: Read these verses and comment on them: Psalms 101:7; Proverbs 12:22; 19:5; Colossians 3:9; Revelation 21:8.

You would expect that, of all the people in the world, the Christian worker would be the most honest and the most faithful in repaying debts. Sadly, that is not the case. Many businessmen refuse to extend credit or lend money to the Lord’s servants, because they have been cheated by them. How tragic it is for the Christian leader to bring dishonor on the name of the Lord.

Paul’s instruction was very clear: Owe no man anything but love - Romans 13:8. In personal finances and in handling church monies, the leader must be completely honest. A promise to pay must be fulfilled. If not, his ministry will end in failure, and the Lord’s name will be dishonored.

Discussion: Read Romans 12:17. In your opinion, what is its meaning? Have you known Christian workers who have been careless, or dishonest, in their financial affairs? What effect has that had on the cause of Christ?

The Apostle Paul admonished Timothy the young minister to "give attention to reading" - 1 Timothy 4:13. Anyone who preaches the Word must get deep into the Word using all the study aids available. Remember this important suggestion: People should

Commentaries and study Bibles should be used freely, as well as the writings of men of God of all ages and of all time. "Much reading maketh a full man."

Discussion: What have you read recently that has strengthened you in the Word? Recount some of the topics.

The body is the temple of God and it must be properly cared for (1 Corinthians 3:16). Eat balanced food and avoid overeating. Go to bed early and get up early. Get some exercise every day.

Good health habits will give you extra years of service for the Lord. Simple living and high thinking - this should be your watchword.

Discussion: Demonstrate some physical exercises that will benefit physical fitness. Discuss other factors that influence health.

Paul had his reason for writing, "We do not want you to become lazy" (Hebrews 6:12). The Christian worker has no supervisor to check the hours he spends on honest labor. He goes into the pulpit and repeats the same messages he has given many times before. There is often no power behind his preaching because he has spent little time in prayer. His people feel they have no shepherd, for he spends little time in visitation and counseling.

Harvest time is short, and "he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son" (Proverbs 10:5). The "hour has come to wake up from your slumber" (Romans 13:11). You are Christ’s servant, part of a noble calling and responsible for a glorious task. Rise up early in the morning, follow a schedule of worship and service so that every hour is profitably filled. "Wake up, O sleeper!" (Eph. 5:14).

Discussion: What are the conditions that make it easy for a preacher to become lazy? Have you known lazy preachers? Did their people respect them?

Are you going through a time of spiritual darkness? Are you weary of a wilderness experience? Are you hanging your head over a burden?

The key to unlock the tunnel of gloom and spiritual defeat is praise. Praise is your medicine; it will work wonders in your body, soul and spirit (Proverbs 15:13; 17:22). Praise! Do not waste your time and energy blaming God and others for your circumstances. Divert your eyes from all circumstances and situations and focus them on the Lord. Forget your wounds and aches. Here is your chance to turn your problems into praise, to tell the world that there is One worthy of praise, even in the dark hours.

Sometimes it is not easy to praise - that is the reason we are instructed to offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually.

When you kneel to pray, forget your petitions and read Psalm 103 or another of David’s praise songs and concentrate on giving praise to Him in worship.

Discussion: Read 2 Chronicles 20:22 and notice the effect that praise had. Scan the book of Psalms and notice the many injunctions to offer praise to God.

Temptations will come to the servant of God: it is up to him to safeguard himself. When you feel the urge to take one step toward sin, may the Holy Spirit push you back by reminding you of the following:

7. Think of the shame and remorse-Prov.5:11-14; 6:32,33.

Discussion - Which of the above reasons do you consider most important? Why?

Whether we like it or not, people will imitate the man who stands in the pulpit, both his good points and his bad. Paul said in Ephesians 5:1, "Be imitators of God", and there is no danger of failure if that advice is followed. But mortal man likes to follow a leader, and the spiritual leader is responsible for the example he sets for his flock.

If he is a man very careful about his walk with God, others will follow on the path of righteousness. But if he finds it easy to flirt with sin and compromise just a little in his Christian standards, they will probably go farther into sin. If he is zealous about seeking the lost and winning souls, he will probably gain some volunteers to begin training for witnessing. But if the leader is slow in reaching out to the lost, his people will likely be Sunday-only Christians, hearers and not doers of the Word. If his is a sacrificial, giving life-style, stingy Christians will soon open their purses and find joy in giving to the Lord.

Paul commended the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 1:6) by saying, "You became imitators of us and of the Lord." He determined too, to lead a blameless life and said, "I urge you to imitate me" (1 Corinthians 4:16).

Discussion: Your example will produce what kind of Christian?

Many of the Lord’s workers suffer an inferiority complex that gnaws from within, rendering them inactive. They are timid about introducing themselves as those serving the Lord. But God counts them "servants of the Most High" (Daniel 3:26). This was the attitude of Paul in serving God (1 Timothy 1:11,12).

God has given us a spirit of power. The Greek word for power in Acts 1:8 is dynamite. No power can stand against this divine power.

Do not underestimate the power God has given you. Attempt the impossible. Reach all possible areas. Never think you cannot reach the rich or the highly educated.

The "little" Paul did great things because he had confidence in God’s power. Realize that power and set to work. Give God a chance to manifest His dynamic power through you.

Discussion: Read these verses and consider some of the weak things God used to demonstrate His power and accomplish great results: Exodus 4:2; Judges 15:15; 1 Samuel 1740; Zechariah 4:10; Matthew 13:32; John 6:9.

A great truth is found in 1 Corinthians 1:27-29. Memorize these verses.

Each denomination has its own unique characteristics and, since this is a course for all churches, it will be impossible to give a complete description of each one in the printed lessons. The teachers will be able to use the following guidelines, however, to present the history and distinctives of their own group.

At the end of the course the new catechist should feel thoroughly acquainted with his field of service and comfortable about beginning his work as lay-preacher.

Lesson One: History of the denomination overseas; its roots from other denominations; its founders and early leaders; reasons for its formation.

Lesson Two: History of the denomination in Africa; nations in which it works; size of the church in each nation; the leaders in these other churches.

Lessons Three, Four and Five: Doctrinal distinctives: How they differ from other denominations; special emphases and ministries; Scriptural bases for these distinctives.

Lesson Six: The denomination’s national organization; its headquarters and officers; length of terms of officers and method of their election.

Lesson Seven: The denomination’s schools and hospitals; its department heads; its annual conferences and any other national meetings.

Lesson Eight: Its district office and officers; district meetings and calendar.

Lesson Nine: Its local educational and medical facilities. The number of villages in the district and the number of villages with pastors or catechists.

Lesson Ten: The denomination’s training schools for future catechists.

Lesson Eleven: The new catechist’s responsibilities to his denomination; number of services expected.

Lesson Twelve: The preparation of new believers for baptism, using the denomination’s liturgical guides.

Lesson Thirteen: What the catechist should do when members fall into sin; the denomination’s way of handling this problem.

Lesson Fourteen: What the catechist should do if he is opposed by sorcerers or tribal leaders.

Lesson Sixteen: The taking of church offerings and the handling of such money.

Lesson Seventeen: The building of church buildings in villages.

Lesson Eighteen: The churching of neighboring villages. Gospel teams.

Lesson Nineteen: Cooperation in districtwide exchanges of catechists for weeks of evangelism, etc.

Lesson Twenty: If an overwhelming problem arises in the congregation, to whom should the catechist go for counsel and advice?